History of the Reformation of the Church of Scotland

; Wilt thou burn thy bill? He answered; Sir, the Bishop and ye will. With these and the like scoffs, the Bishop and his band were so dashed out of countenance, that the greatest part of accusation was turned to laughter. After that Diet, we find almost no question for matters of Religion, the space near of thirty years; for not long after, to wit, in the year of God 1500. the said Bishop Blaktar departed this life, going in his superstitious devotion to Jerusalem: Unto whom succeeded Master James Betone, son to the Laird of Balfor in Fife, who was more careful of the world, then he was to Preach Christ, or yet to advance any Religion, but for the fashion only, and as he sought the world it fled him not: For it was well known that at once he was Archbishop of Saint Andrew's, Abbot of Dunfermeling, Aberbrothe, Kylwinning, and Chancellor of Scotland : For after the unhappy field of Flowdonne, in the which perished King James the fourth, with the greatest part of the Nobility of the Realm, the said Betonne with the rest of the Prelates, had the whole Regiment of the Realm. And by reason thereof held and travelled to hold the truth of God in thralldom and bondage, till that it pleased God of his great mercy in the year of God 1527. to raise up his servant Master Patrick Hammilton, at whom our History doth begin: Of whose progeny, life, and erudition, because men of fame and renown have in divers works written; we omit all curious repetition, sending such as would know further of him then we write to Francis Lambert, John Frith, and to that notable work lately set forth by John Fox, English man, of the lives and deaths of Martyrs within this Isle in this our age.

This servant of God Master Patrick Hamilton, being in his youth provided to reasonable honors and living (he was entitled Abbot of Fern ) as one hating the world and the vanity thereof, left Scotland, and passed to the Schools in Germany ; for then the fame of the University of Wittenburg was greatly divulgate in all Countries: where by God's providence he became familar with those lights and notable servants of Christ Jesus of that time, Martin Luther, Philip Melancthon, and the said Francis Lambert, did so grow and advance in godly knowledge, joined with fervency and integrity of life, that he was in admiration with many. The zeal of God's glory did so eat him up, that he could not long continue to remain there, but returned to his country where the bright beams of the true light, which by God's grace was planted in his heart, began most abundantly to burst forth, as well in public as in secret; for he was (besides his godly knowledge) well learned in Philosophy, he abhorred Sophistry, and would that the Text of Aristotle should have been better understood, and more used in the Schools than then it was; for Sophistry had corrupted all, as well in Divinity, as in humanity. In short process of time, the fame of his reasons and Doctrine troubled the Clergy, and came to the ears of Bishop James Betonne, of whom before we have made mention, who being a conjured enemy to Christ Jesus, and one that long hath had the whole regiment of this Realm, bare impatiently that any trouble should be made to the Kingdom of darkness, whereof within this Realm he was the head. And therefore he so travelled with the said Master Patrick that he gat him to Saint Andrew's, where after the conference of divers days he had his freedom and liberty. The said Bishop and his bloody Butchers, called Doctors, seemed to approve his Doctrine, and to grant that many things craved Reformation in the Ecclesiastical regiment. And amongst the rest, there was one that secretly consented with him almost in all things, named, Frier Alexander Campbell, a man of good wit and learning, but yet corrupt by the world, as after we will hear: when the Bishops and Clergy had fully understood the mind and judgment of the said Master Patrick, and fearing that by him their kingdom should be endamaged, they travailed with the King, who then was young, and altogether addict to their commandment, that he should pass in Pilgrimage to Saint Dothesse in Ross, to the end that no intercession should be made for the life of the innocent servant of God, who suspecting no such cruelty as in their hearts was conceived, remained still, (a lamb amongst the wolves) till that upon a night he was intercepted in his chamber, and by the Bishops Band was carried to the Castle, where that night he was kept, and upon the morrow after brought forth to Judgment, he was condemned to die by fire for the testimony of God's Truth. The Articles for the which he suffered, were but of Pilgrimage, Purgatory, prayer to Saints, and for the dead, and such trifles. Albeit that matters of greater importance had been in question, as his Treatise which in the end we have added, may witness. Now that the condemnation of the said M. Patrick should have greater Authority, they caused the same to be subscribed by all those of any estimation that with them were present; and to make their number great, they took the subscription of children, if they were of the Nobility; for the Earl of Cassilles, which last deceased in France, then being but twelve or thirteen years of age, was compelled to subscribe his death, as himself did confess. Immediately after dinner the fire was prepared before the old College, and he led to the place of Execution, and yet men supposed that all was done but to give nnto him terror, and to have caused him to have recanted, and have become recreant to those bloody beasts; but God for his own glory; for the comfort of his servant, and for manifestation of their beastly tyranny, had otherwise decreed; for he • o strengthened his faithful Witness, that neither the love of life, nor yet the fear of that cruel death, could move him a jot to swerve from the truth once professed. At the place of execution, he gave to his servant who had been chamberlain to him of a long time, his Gown, his Coat, Bonnet, and such like garments, saying, These will not profit in the fire, they will profit thee; after this, of me thou canst receive no commodity, except the example of my death, which I pray thee bear in mind, for albeit it be bitter to the flesh▪ and fearful before men, yet is it the entrance unto eternal life, which none shall possess that denies Christ Jesus before this wicked generation. The innocent servant of God being bound to the stake, in the midst of some coals, some timber, and other matter appointed for the fire, a train of powder was made, and set on fire, which gave to the blessed Martyr of God, a blaise, and scorched his left hand and that side of his face, but neither kindled the wood nor yet the coals, and so remained the appointed to death in torment, till that men ran to the Castle again for more Powder, and fire wood more able to take fire, which at last being kindled, with loud voice, cried; Lord Jesus receive my spirit; How long shall darkness overwhelm this Realm? And how long wilt thou suffer this tyranny of men? The fire was slow, and therefore was his torment the more: But most of all was he grieved by certain wicked men, amongst whom Campbel the black Frier (of whom we spake before) was principal, who continually cried, Convert Heretic, Call upon our Lady, say, Salve Regina, &c. To whom he answered, Depart, and trouble me not, thou messenger of Satan. But while that the aforesaid Frier still roared, one thing in great vehemence he said unto him; Wicked man, thou knowest the contrary, and the contrary to me thou hast confessed; I appeal thee before the tribunal seat of Christ Jesus. After which, and other words, which well could not be understood nor marked because of the tumult, and vehemency of the fire. The witness of Jesus Christ gate victory, after long sufferance, the last of February, in the year of God 1527. The said Frier departed this life within few days after, in what estate, we refer to the manifestation of the general Day. But it was plainly known, that he died in Glasgow in a frenzy, and as one despaired.

Now that all men may understand what was the singular erudition, and godly knowledge of the said M. Patrick Hamilton, we have inserted this his little pithy Work, containing his Assertions and Determinations, concerning the Law, the Office of the same; concerning Faith, and the true Fruits thereof; first by the said Master Patrick collected in Latin, and after translated into vulgar Language.

Thus ends M. Patricks Articles. And so we return to our History. When those cruel wolves had (as they supposed) clean devoured the prey, they found themselves in worse case then they were before; for then within S. Andrew's, yea, almost within the whole Realm (who heard of that fact) there was none found who began not to inquire, wherefore M. Patrick Hamilton was burnt, and when his Articles were rehearsed, Question was holden, if such Articles were necessary to be believed, under the pain of damnation. And so within short space, many began to call in doubt, that which before they held for a certain verity, insomuch that the University of S. Andrew's and S. Leonards College, principally by the labors of Master Gawin Logy, the Novises of the Abbey, and by the sub-Prior, began to smell somewhat of the verity, and to espy the vanity of the received Superstition; yea, within few years after began both black and gray Friers publicly to Preach against the pride and idle life of Bishops, and against the abuses of the whole Ecclesi • sticall estate; amongst whom was one called Will. Arith • ; who in a Sermon preached in Dundie, spake somewhat more liberally against the licentious life of the Bishops, then they could well bear. He spake further against the abuse of cursing and of Miracles. The Bishop of Brechain, having his Parasites and Jack-men in the Town, buffeted the Frier, and called him Heretic. The Frier impatient of the injury received, past to S. Andrew's, and did communicate the heads of his Sermon with Master John Mair, whose word then was holden as an Oracle, in matters of Religion; and being assured of him, than such Doctrine might well be defended, and that he would defend it, for it contained no Heresy. There was one day appointed to the said Frier, to make repetition of the same Sermon: and advertisement was given to all such as was offended at the former, to be present. And so in the Parish Church of S. Andrew's upon the day appointed▪ appeared the said Frier, and had amongst his Auditors, M. John Mair, M. George Lockart, the Abbot of Gambuskeneth, M. Patrick Hepburn Prior of Saint Andrew's, with all the Doctors, and Masters of the Universities.

The theme of his Sermon was; Verity is the strongest of all things. His discourse of cursing was▪ That if it were warily used, it were the most fearful thing upon the face of the earth; for it were the very separation of man from God; but that it should not be used rashly, and for every light cause, but only against open and incorrigible sinners: but now; said he, the avarice of Priests, and the ignorance of their Office, hath caused it altogether to be vile-pended. For the Priest (saith he) whose Duty and Office is to pray for the people, standeth up on Sunday, and crieth, Anne has lost her Spindle; There is a Flail stolen behind the barn; The goodwife on the other side of the gate hath lost a horn spoon; God's curse and mine I give to them that knoweth of thy goods, and restoreth them not. How the people mocked their cursing, he further told a merry tale, How after a Sermon that he made at Dumfermeling, he came to a house where gossips were drinking their Sundays penny; and he being dry, asked drink; Yes Father (said one of the gossips) ye shall have drink, but ye must first resolve one doubt which is risen among us, to wit, What servant will serve a man best at least expenses? The good Angel, said I, who is man's keeper, who maketh good service without expenses. Tush, said the gossip, we mean no such high matters; we mean, What honest man will do greatest service for least expenses. And while I was musing (said the Frier) what that should mean, she said, I see, father, that the greatest Clerks are not the wisest men. Know ye not how the Bishops and their Officials serve us husbandmen, Will they not give to us a letter of cursing for a plack, to last for a year, to curse all that look over our ditch, and that keep our Corn better nor the sleeping boy that will have three shillings of Fee, a shirt, and a pair of shoes in the year. And therefore if their cursing do anything, we hold the Bishops the cheapest servants in that behalf, that are within the Realm. As concerning Miracles, he declared what deligence the ancients took to try true miracles from false. But now, said he, the greediness of Priests not only receive false miracles, but also they cherish and hire knaves for that purpose, that their Chapels may be the better renowned, and Offerings may be augmented. And thereupon are many Chapels founded, as that if our Lady were mightier, and that she took more pleasure in one place than in another; As of late days our Lady of Karsgreng hath hopped from one green hillock to another: But honest men of Saint Andrew's (said he) if ye love your wives and daughters, hold them at home, or else send them in good honest company; for if ye knew what miracles were wrought there, ye would neither thank God nor our Lady. And thus he merely tanted their Priests of whoredom and adultery used at such devotion.

Another Article was judged more hard; for he alleged the common Law, That the Civil Magistrate might correct the Church-men, and deprive them of their Benefices for open vices. Another day the same Frier made another Sermon of the Abbot of Unreason, unto whom, and whose Laws; he compareth Prelates of that age; for they were subject to no Laws, no more than was the Abbot of Unreason. And among other things, he told such a merry jest: There was, said he, a Prelate, or at least a Prelates Peer, a true servant to the King of Love, who upon a night after Supper, asked of his Gentlemen, by the faith that they ought to the king of Love, that they truly declare how many sundry women everyone of them had, and how many of them were men's wives. One answered, He had lien with five, and two of them were married. The other answered, I have had seven, and three of them are married. It came last to my Lord Abbot himself, who making it very nice for a little space, gave in the end a plain confession, and said, I am the youngest man, and yet have I had the round dozen, and seven of them are men's wives. Now said the Frier, This god and king of Love, to whom our Prelates do homage, is the master devil of hell, from whom such fruits and works do proceed. This Frier was known by his proper tokens to have been Prior Patrick Hepburne, now Bishop of Murray, who to this day hath continued in the profession that he hath made to his god and king of love.

It was supposed, notwithstanding this kind of preaching, that this Frier remained Papist in his heart: For the other Friers fearing to lose the Benediction of the Bishops, to wit, Their Malt and their Meale, and their other appointed Pensions, caused the said Frier to fly to England, where for defense of the people and Papistry, he was cast into prison at King Henries commandment. But so it pleased God to open the mouth of Balaam's own Ass to cry out against the vicious lives of the Clergy of that age.

Shortly after this, new consultation was taken there that some should be burnt; for men began liberally to speak. A merry Gentleman named John Lindsey, familiar to Bishop James Betonne, standing by when consultation was had, said, My Lord, If ye burn anymore, except ye follow my counsel, ye will utterly destroy yourselves; if ye will burn them, let them be burnt in hollow Cellars; for the smoke of Master Patrick Hammilton hath infected as many as it blew upon. Thus it pleased God that they should be tanted in their own face. But here followeth the most merry of all: One Alexander Furrour, who had been imprisoned seven years in the Tower of London, Sir John Dungwaill (according to the charity of Church-men) entertained his wife, and wasted the poor man's substance; for the which cause at his returning, he spake more liberally of Priests, then they could bear: And so was he declared to be accused for heresy, and called to his answer to Saint Andrew's, he leapt up merrily upon the Scaffold, and casting a gambade, said, Where are the rest of the Players? Master Andrew Olyphant offended therewith, said, It shall be no Play to you, Sir, before ye depart, and so began to read his Accusation; the first Article whereof was, That he despised the Mass. His answer was, I hear more Maffes in eight days, than three Bishops there sitting say in a year. Accused secondly of the contempt of the Sacraments. The Priests, said he, were the most common contemners of Sacraments, and specially of Matrimony. And that he witnessed by many of the Priests there present, and named the man's wife with whom they had meddled, and especially Sir John Dungwaill, who had seven years together abused his own wife, and consumed his substance; and said, because I complain of such injuries, I am here summoned and accused as one that is worthy to be burnt: For God's sake, said he, will ye take wives of your own, that I and others whom ye have abused, may be revenged upon you. Then Bishop Gawin Dumbar, named the old Bishop of Aberdein, thinking to justify himself before the people, said, Carle, thou shalt not know my wife. The said Alexander answered, My Lord, ye are too old, but with the grace of God I shall drink with your daughter or I depart, and thereat was smiling of the best, and loud laughter of some, for the Bishop had a daughter married with Andrew Balfour in that Town. Then the Bishop bade away with the carle. But he answered, Nay, I will not depart this hour, for I have more to speak against the vices of Priests, than I can express this whole day. And so after divers purposes, they commanded him to burn his Bill. And he demanding the cause, they said, Because ye have spoken these Articles whereof ye are accused. His answer was, The great devil bear them away that first and last said them; and so he took the Bill, and chawing it, he spat it in Master Andrew Olyphants face, saying, Now burn it or drown it, whether ye will, ye hear no more of me. But I must have somewhat of everyone of you, to begin my pack again, which a Priest and my wife, a Priests whore, have spent. And so every Prelat and rich Priest, glad to be quit of his evil, gave him somewhat, and so departed he, for he understood nothing of Religion. But so fearful it was then to speak anything against Priests, that the least word spoken against them, yea, albeit it was spoken in a man's sleep, was judged Heresy, and that was practiced upon Richard Carmichell, yet living in Fife, who being young, and Singer in the Chapel Royal of Sterelin, happened in his sleep to say, The devil take away the Priests, for they are a greedy pack. He therefore accused by Sir George Clapperton, Dean of the said Chapel, was compelled forthwith to burn his Bill. But God shortly after raised up against them stronger Champions: For Alexander Seton, a black Frier, of good learning and estimation, began to blame the corrupt doctrine of Papistry. For the space of a whole Lent, he taught the Commandment only, ever beating in the ears of his auditors, That the Law of God had of many years not been truly taught: for men's Tradition had obscured the purity of it. These were his accustomed Propositions; 1. Christ Jesus is the end and perfection of the Law. 2. There is no sin, where God's Law is not violated. 3. To satisfy for sins, lies not in man's power; but the remission thereof cometh by unfeigned Repentance, and by faith apprehending God the Father merciful in Jesus Christ his Son. While oftentimes he puts his auditors in mind of this and the like Heads; he maketh no mention of Purgatory, Pardons, Pilgrimage, prayer to Saints, nor of such trifles. The dumb Doctors, and the rest of that forsworn rabble began to suspect him, and yet said they nothing publicly, till Lent was ended. And he passed to Dundie: And then one in his absence, hired to that purpose, openly condemned the whole Doctrine that before he had taught. Which coming to the ears of the said Frier Alexander, then being in Dundie, without delay he returned to Saint Andrew's, caused immediately to toll the Bell, and to give signification that he would preach, as that he did indeed, in the which Sermon he affirmeth (and that more plainly than at any other time) whatsoever in all his whole Sermons he had taught before, the whole Lent past; adding, That within Scotland there were no true Bishops, if that Bishops should be known by such notes and virtues as S. Paul requires in Bishops. This delation flew with wings to the Bishops ears, who without further delay sent for the said Friar Alexander, who began sharply to accuse that he had so • landerously spoken of the dignity of Bishops, as to say, That it behooved a Bishop to be a Preacher or else he were but a dumb dog, and fed not the flock, but fed his own belly. The man being witty, and minding that which was his most assured defense, said, My Lord▪ The reporters of such things are manifest liars. Whereat the Bishop rejoiced, and said, Your answer pleaseth me well; I never could think of you that ye would be so foolish as to affirm such things: Where are the knaves that have brought me this tale? Who comparing and affirming the same that they did before, he still replied, That they were liars. But while the witnesses were multiplied, and men were brought to attention, he turned him to the Bishop, and said, My Lord, ye may hear and consider, what ears these Asses have, who cannot discern betwixt Paul, Isaiah, Zacharias, and Malachi, and Frier Alexander Seton. In very deed, My Lord, I said, That Paul saith, It behooveth a Bishop to be a Teacher; Isaiah said, That they that fed not the flock are dumb dogs; and Zacharias saith, They are idle Pastors: I of mine own head affirmed nothing, but declared what the Spirit of God before pronounced: At whom, my Lord, if ye be not offended, justly ye cannot be offended at me. And so yet again, my Lord, I say, That they are manifest liars that reported unto you that I said, That ye and others that preach not, are no Bishops, but belly-gods. Albeit after that the Bishop was highly offended, as well at the scoff and bitter mock, as at the bold liberty of that learned man, yet durst he not hazard for that present, to execute his malice conceived. For naught only feareth he the learning, and bold spirit of the man, but also the favor that he had, as well of the people, as of the Prince, King James the fifth, with whom he had good credit, for he was at that time his Confessor, and had exhorted him to the fear of God, to the meditation of God's Law, and unto purity of life. But the said Bishop, with his complices, foreseeing what danger might come to their estate, if such familiarity should continue betwixt the Prince and a man so learned, and so repugning to their affections, laboreth by all means to make the said Frier Alexander odious unto the King, and easily found the means by the gray Friers (who by their hypocrisy deceived many) to traduce the innocent as an Heretic. This accusation was easily believed of the young Prince; who being much given to the lusts of the flesh, abhorred all counsel that repugned thereto. And because he did remember what a terror the admonitions of the said Alexander was unto his blinded conscience, without resistance he subscribed to their accusation, affirming that he knew more then they did in that matter. For he understood well enough that he smelled of the new Doctrine, by such things as he had shown to him under Confession. And therefore he promised that he should follow the counsel of the Bishops in punishing of him, and of all others of that Sect. These things understood by the said Alexander, as well by the information of his friends and familiars, as by the strange countenance of the King unto him; provideth the next way to avoid the fury of a misled Prince, and so in his habit he departeth the Realm; and coming to Berwicke, wrote back again to the King his Complaint and Admonition; The very Tenour and Copy whereof followeth, and is this.

This Letter was delivered to the Kings own hands, and of many read; but what could greatly avail, where the pride and corruption of Prelates commanded what they pleased; and the flattery of Courtiers fostered the unadvised Prince in all dissoluteness, by which means they made him obsequious unto them. From the death of that constant Witness of Jesus Christ, M. Patrick Hammilton, God disclosing the wickedness of the wicked, as before we have heard. There was one Forest of Linlytquow taken, who after long imprisonment in the said Tower of S. Andrew's was adjudged to the fire, by the • aid Bishop James Betonne and his Doctors, for no other crime, but because he had a New Testament in English. Further of that History we have not, except that he died constantly, and with great patience at S. Andrew's. After whose death th • flame of Persecution ceased, till the death of M. Norman Gurlaw, the space of ten years, or thereabout, not that the bloody beasts ceased by all means to suppress the light of God, and to trouble such as in any sort were suspected to abhor their corruption; but because the Realm in these times was troubled with intestine and cruel wars, in the which much blood was shed; first at Melrosse, betwixt the Dowglas and Balclench, in the year of God 1526. the 24. day of July: Next at Lynlythcow, betwixt the Hamiltons and the Earl of Lenox, who was sisters son to the Earl of Arran ▪ where the said Earl with many others lost his life, the thirteenth day of September, in the same year: And last, betwixt the King himself and the foresaid Dowglas, whom he banished the Realm, and held him in exile during his whole days. By reason of these, we say, and of other troubles, the Bishops and their bloody bands could not find the time so favorable unto them as they required, to execute their Tyrannie.

In this middle time, so did the wisdom of God provide, that Henry the eight, King of England, did abolish from his Realm the name and authority of the Pope of Rome, commanded the Bible to be read in English, suppressed the Abbeys and other places of Idolatry, with their Idols, which gave great hope to divers Realms, that some godly Reformation should thereof have ensued: And therefore from this our Country did divers learned men, and others that lived in fear of Persecution, repair to that Realm, where albeit they found not such purity as they wished (and therefore divers of them sought other countries) yet they escaped the tyranny of merciless men, and were reserved to better times, that they might fructify within his Church in divers places and parts, and in divers vocations. Alexander Setonne remained in England, and publicly (with great praise and comfort of many) taught the Gospel in all sincerity certain years. And albeit the craftiness of Gardner Bishop of Winchester and of others, circumvented the said Alexander, so that they caused him at Paul's Cross, to affirm certain things that repugned to his former Doctrine: yet it is no doubt but that God potently had assisted him in all his life, and that also in his death (which shortly after followed) he found the mercy of his God, whereupon he ever exhorted all men to depend. Alexander Alaesius, Master John Fife, and that famous man Doctor Maccabeus departed unto Dutchland, where by God's providence they were distributed to several places. Makdowell for his singular prudence, besides his Learning and Godliness, was elected borrow-Master in one of their steads. Alaesius was appointed to the University of Lipsia, and so was Master John Fife, where for their honest behavior and great erudition they were holden in admiration with all the godly. And in what honor, credit, and estimation Doctor Maccabeus was, with Christian, king of Denmark, Cawpmanhowen and famous men of divers nations can testify. This did God provide for his servants, and did frustrate the expectation of these bloody beasts, who by the death of one (he means M. Patrick Hamilton ) in whom the light of God did clearly shine, intended to have suppressed Christ's Truth forever within this Realm, but the contrary had God decreed: for his death was the cause (as is said) that many did awake from the deadly sleep of ignorance; and so did Jesus Christ the only true Lyght shine unto many, for the way taken of one. And albeit that these notable men did never after (M. John Fife only excepted) comfort their country with their bodily presence, yet made he them fructify in his Church, and raised them up Lyghts out of darkness, to the praise of his own mercy, and to the just condemnation of them that then ruled; To wit, of the King, Counsel, and Nobility, yea, of the whole people, who suffered such notable personages without crimes, counted to be unjustly persecuted, and so exiled; others were after even so dealt withal, but of them we shall speak in their own place.

No sooner gate the Bishops opportunity (which always they sought) but so soon renewed they the battle against Jesus Christ. For the aforesaid leprous Bishop in the year of God 1534. caused to be summoned Sir William Kyrk, Adam Dayis, Henry Kernes, John Stewart of Leyth, with divers others, such as Master William Johnston Advocate, Master Henry Henderson, School-master of Edinburgh, of whom some compeered in the Abbey Kyrk of Halyrud-house, and so abjured, and publicly burnt their Bills: others compeered not, and therefore was exiled. But in judgment were produced two, to wit, David Straton, a Gentleman, and Master Norman Gowrlay, a man of reasonable erudition, of whom we may shortly speak. In Master Norman appeared knowledge, albeit joined with weakness; But in David Straton could only be espied for the first; a hatred against the pride and avaritiousnesse of Priests, for the cause of his delation was, he had made to himself one Fish-boat to go to the sea; The Bishop of Murray, then being Prior of Saint Andrew's, and his agents, urged him for the tythe thereof; His answer was, If they would have tythe of that which his servants wan in the sea, it were but reason that they should come and receive it where they got the stock, and so as it was constantly affirmed, he caused his servants to cast the tenth fish in the sea again: Processe of cursing was laid against him for not paying such tithes, which when he contemned, he was summoned to answer for Heresy. It troubled him vehemently, and therefore he began to frequent the company of such as were godly; for before he had been a man very stubborn, and one that despised all reading (chiefly of those things that were godly) but miraculously, as it were, he appeareth to be changed, for he delighteth in nothing but in hearing of reading (for himself could not read) and was a vehement exhorter of all men to concord and quietness, and the contempt of the world. He frequented much the company of the Laird of Dun Areskin, whom God in those days had marvelously illuminated: upon a day as the Laird of Lawriston that yet liveth, then being a young man, was reading unto him in the New Testament, in a certain quiet place in the fields, as God had appointed, he chanced to read these Sentences of our Master Jesus Christ; He that denieth me before men, or is ashamed of me in the midst of this wicked generation, I will deny him in the presence of my Father, and before his Angels. At which words, he suddenly being as one revived, cast himself upon his knees, and extending both hand and visage constantly to the heaven a reasonable time, at length he burst forth in these words; O Lord, I have been wicked, and justly mayest thou withdraw thy grace from me: but Lord, for thy mercies sake, let me never deny thee, nor thy Truth, for fear of death or corporal pain. The issue declared that his prayer was not vain; for when he with the aforesaid Master Norman, was produced in judgment in the Abbey of Halyrud-House, the King himself (all clad in red) being present, great labor was made, that the said David Straton should have recanted, and burnt his Bill: But he ever standing at his defense, alleging that he had not offended, in the end was adjudged to the fire, and then when he perceived the danger, asked grace at the King (which he would willingly have granted unto him) the Bishops proudly answered, That the Kings hands were bound in that case, and that he had no grace to give, to such as by their Law were condemned. And so was he with the said Master Norman, after dinner, upon the seven and twentieth day of August, in the year of our Lord 1534. aforesaid, led to a place besides the rood of green side: and there they two were both hanged and burnt, according to the mercy of the Papistical Church. To that same diet were summoned as before we have said, others of whom some escaped into England, and so for that present escaped the death. This their tyranny, notwithstanding, the knowledge of God did wonderfully increase within this Realm, partly by reading, partly by brotherly conference which in those dangerous days was used to the comfort of many; but chiefly by Merchants and Mariners, who frequenting other countries, heard the true Doctrine affirmed, and the vanity of the Papistical Religion openly rebuked: Amongst whom were those of Dondie and Lieth principals, against whom was made a very strait inquisition, by David Beton, cruel Cardinal. And divers were compelled to abjure and burn their Bills, some in Saint Andrew's, and some at Edinburgh. About the same time, Captain John Berthwick Provost of Lithcow, was burnt in figure, but by God's providence escaped their fury. And this was done for a spectacle, and triumph to Mary of Lorraine, lately arrived from France, as wife to James the fifth King of Scots: what plagues she brought with her, and how they yet continue, such as are not blind may manifestly see. The rage of these bloody beasts proceeded so far, that the Kings Court it self escaped not that danger; for in it divers were suspected, and some accused. And yet ever did some light burst out in the midst of darkness; for the truth of Christ Jesus entered even into the Cloisters as well of Friars and Monks as of Channons. John Lyn, a gray Frier, left his hypocritical habit, and the den of those murderers, the gray Friers. A black Frier, called Frier Killor, set forth the History of Christ's passion in form of a Play, which he both Preached and practiced openly in Sterlin, the King himself being present upon a Good-Friday in the Morning, in the which all things were so lively expressed, that the very simple people understood and confessed, That as the Priests and obstinate Pharisees persuaded the people to refuse Christ Jesus, and caused Pilate to condemn him; So did the Bishops, and men called Religious, blind the people, and persuade Princes and Judges to persecute such as profess Christ Jesus his blessed Gospel. This plain speaking so inflamed the hearts of all that bare the Beasts mark, that they ceased not, till the said Friar Kill • r, and with him Frier Beaverege, Sir Duncane Symson, Robert Forester Gentleman, and Dean Thomas Forrat, Channon regular, and Vicar of Dolour, a man of upright life, who altogether were cruelly murdered in one fire upon the Castle hill the last of February, in the year of our Lord 1538. This cruelty was used by the aforesaid Cardinal, the Chancellor, the Bishop of Glasgow, and the incestuous Bishop of Dumblane. After that this cruelty was used in Edinburgh upon the Castle hill, to the effect that the rest of the Bishops might show themselves no less fervent to suppress the light of God, then he of S. Andrew's was, were apprehended two of the Diocese of Glasgow ; The one named Ieronimus Russell, a gray Frier, a young man, of a meek nature, quick spirit, and good Learning; And one Alexander Kennedie, who passed not eighteen years of age, one of excellent wit in vulgar Poesie. To assist the Bishop of Glasgow in that cruel judgment, or at least to dip his hands in the blood of the Saints of God, were sent Master John Lawd • r, Master Andrew Olyphant, and Frier Meitman, servants of Satan, apt for that purpose; The day appointed to the cruelty approached; The two poor Saints of God were presented before those bloody butchers, grievous were the crimes that were laid to their charge: Kennedie at the first was faint, and gladly would have recanted: but while the place of repentance was denied unto him▪ the spirit of God, which is the spirit of all comfort, began to work in him; yea, the inward comfort began to burst forth, as well in visage, as in tongue and word, for his countenance began to be cheerful, and with a joyful voice upon his knees he said, O eternal God, how wonderful is that love and mercy that thou bearest unto mankind, and unto me the most caitiff and miserable wretch above all others; For, even now, when I would have denied thee, and thy Son, our Lord Jesus Christ my only Savior, and so have cast myself into everlasting damnation; Thou by thine own hand hast pulled me from the very bottom of hell, and made me to feel that heavenly comfort, which takes from me that ungodly fear wherewith before I was oppressed. Now I defy death, do what ye please; I praise my God, I am ready. The godly and learned Ieronimus, railed upon by these godless Tyrants, answered; This is your hour, and power of darkness; Now sit ye as Judges, and we stand wrongfully accused, and more wrongfully to be condemned; but the day shall come, when our innocence shall appear, and that ye shall see your own blindness, to your everlasting confusion. Go forward, and fulfill the measure of your iniquity. While that these servants of God thus behaved themselves, a variance ariseth betwixt the Bishop and the beasts that came from the Cardinal; For the Bishop said, I think it better to spare these men, then to put them to death: Whereat the idiot Doctors offended, said, What will ye do my Lord? will ye condemn all that my Lord Cardinal and the other Bishops and we have done? If so ye do, ye show yourself enemy to the Church and us, and so we will repute you, be ye assured. At which words, the faithless man afraid, adjudged the innocents to die, according to the desire of the wicked. The meek and gentle Ieronimus Russell comforted the other with many comfortable sentences, oft saying unto him, Brother, fear not, more mighty is he that is in us, than he that is in the world: the pain that we shall suffer is short, and shall be light; but our joy and consolation shall nevea have end: and therefore let us contend to enter in, unto our Master and Savior, by the same strait way which he hath taken before us: Death cannot destroy us, for it is destroyed already by him for whose sake we suffer. With these and the like comfortable sentences they passed to the place of execution, and constantly triumphed over death and Satan, even in the midst of the flaming fire. And thus did those cruel beasts intend nothing but murder in all the quarters of this Realm: for so far had they blinded and corrupted the inconsiderate Prince, that he gave himself to obey the tyranny of those bloody beasts: and he made a solemn Vow, That none should be spared that was suspect of Heresy, yea, although it were his own son. To press and push him forward in this his fury, he lacked not flatters enow; for many of his Minions were pensioners to Priests: Amongst whom, Oliver Synclare, yet remaining enemy to God, was principal. And yet did not God cease to give that blinded Prince documents that some sudden punishment was to fall upon him, if he did not repent, and amend his life; and that his own mouth did confess: For after that Sir James Hamilton was beheaded (justly or unjustly we dispute not) this Vision came unto him, as to his familiars himself did declare) the said Sir James appeared unto him, having in his hands a drawn sword, with the which he stroke from the King both the arms, saying to him these words, Take that, till thou receive a final payment for all thy impiety. This Vision with sorrowful countenance, he shown on the morrow, and shortly thereafter died his two sons, both within the space of 24 hours, yea, some say within the space of six hours. In his own presence George Steill, his greatest flatterer, and greatest enemy to God that was in his Court, dropped off his horse, and died not saying one word that same day, that in audience of many, the said George had refused his portion of Christ's Kingdom, if the prayers of the Virgin Mary should not bring him thereto. How terrible a Vision the said Prince saw lying in Lintlightow that night that Thomas Scot, Justice Clerk, died in Edinburgh, men of good credit can yet report: For afraid at midnight, or after, he called aloud for Torches, and raised all that lay beside him in the Palace, and told that Thomas Scot was dead; for he had been at him with a company of devils, and had said unto him these words; O we to the day that ever I knew thee or thy service; for serving of thee, against God, against his servants, and against Justice, I am adjudged to endless torment. How terrible voices the said Thomas Scot pronounced before his death, men of all estates heard; and some that yet live can witness his voice ever was, Iusto Dei judicio condemnatus sum ; that is, I am condemned by God's just Judgment. He was most oppressed for th • delation and false accusation of such as professed Christ's Evangel, as M. Thomas Mairioribanckes, and M. Heus Rig, then advocates, did confess to M. Henry Balnaves, who from the said Thomas Scot came to him, as he and M. Thomas Ballenden were sitting in Saint Giles Church, and asked him forgiveness of the said Thomas. None of these terrible forewarnings could either change or alter the heart of the infortunate and misled Prince, but still he did proceed in his accustomed ways. For in the midst of these evils, he caused, to put hands on that notable man M. George Buchanan, to whom for his singular erudition and honest behavior, was committed the charge to instruct some of his natural children: But by the merciful providence of God he escaped (albeit with great difficulty) the rage of those that sought his life; and remains alive to this day in the year of God 1566. to the glory of God, to the great honor of this nation, and to the comfort of those that delight in letters and virtue. That singular Work of David's Psalms, in Latin Meeter and Poesie, besides many others, can witness the rare graces of God given to that man, which that Prince by instigation of the gray-Friers and of his other flatterers, would altogether have devoured, if God had not provided remedy to his servant by escaping (the keepers being asleep he went out at the window) This cruelty and persecution, notwithstanding the monsters and hypocrites, the gray-Friers, day by day came farther in contempt, for not only did the learned espy and detest their abominable hypocrisy, but also men in whom no such graces or gifts were thought to have been, began plainly to paint the same forth to the people. As this Ryme which here we have inserted for the same purpose, made by Alexander Earl of Glevearne to this day 1566 alive can witness, entitled, An Epistle directed from the holy Hermit of Larites, to his Brethren the gray-Friers.

After God had given unto that mis-informed Prince sufficient documents, that his warring against his blessed Gospel should not prosperously succeed. He raised up against him Wars as he did of old against divers Princes that would not hear his voice, in the which he lost himself, as we shall hereafter hear.

The occasion of the War was this, HENRY the eighth, King of England, had a great desire to have spoken with our King, and in that point travelled so long, till that he gat a full promise made to his Ambassador, Lord William Howard: The place of meeting was appointed York, which the King of England kept with such solemnity and preparations, as never for such a purpose was seen in England before. Great brute of that journey, and some preparation for the same was made in Scotland: But in the end, by persuasion of the Cardinal David Beton, and by others of his faction, that journey was stayed, and the Kings promise falsified. Whereupon were sharp Letters of reproach sent unto the King, and also unto his counsel. King Henry frustrate returneth to London, and after his indignation declared, began to fortify with men his frontiers toward Scotland. There was sent to the borders, Sir Robert Bows, the Earl of Angus, and his brother, Sir George Dowglas. Upon what other trifling questions (as for the debetable land and such) the War brake up, we omit to write. The principal occasion was the falsifying of the promises before made. Our King perceiving that War would rise, asked the Prelates and Churchmen, what support they would make to the sustaining of the same: for rather would he yet satisfy the desire of his Uncle▪ then he would hazard war where he saw not his force able to resist. They promised mountains of gold (as Satan their father did to Christ Jesus if he would worship him) for rather would they have gone to hell, then he should have met with King Henry, for then thought they, Farewell our Kingdom of Abbots, Monks, &c. And farewell, thought the Cardinal, his credit and glory in France. In the end, they promised fifty thousand crowns by year, to be well paid so long as the War lasted: and further, That their servants and other that appertained to them, and were exempted from common service, should nevertheless serve in time of necessity. These vain promises lifted up in pride the heart of the unhappy king, and so begins the War. The Realm was Quartered, and men were laid in Iedburgh and Kelso: All men (fools we mean) bragged of victory, and in very deed the beginning gave us a fair shaw: For at the first Warden Read which was made on Saint Bartholomew's day, in the year of our Lord, 1542. was the Warden Sir Robert Bows, his brother Richard Bows Captain of Norhame, Sir William Mamebery Knight, a Bastard Son of the Earl of Angus, and James Dowglas of Parkhead, then Rebels, with a great number of Borderers Soldiers and Gentlemen taken: The Read was termed Halderig. The Earl of Angus and Sir George his brother, did narrowly escape. Our Papists and Prelates, proud of this victory, encouraged the King, so that there was nothing heard, but All is ours: They be but Heretics, if we be a thousand and they ten thousand, they dare not fight ; France shall enter into one part, and we the other, and so shall England be conquest within a year. If any man was seen to smile at such vanity, he was no more but a Traytour and an Heretic. And yet by these means men had greater liberty then they had before, as concerning their conscience, for then ceased the persecution. The War continued till midde September: And then was sent down the old Duke of Norfolk, with such an Army as a hundred years before had not come into Scotland. They were in gathering their Forces, and setting forward of their Preparations and Munitions, which were exceeding great, till midde October and after. And then they Marched from Barwick and tended to the wast, ever holding Tweid upon their own side, and never camped from that River the space of a mile, during the whole time they continued in Scotland, which was ten or twelve days. Forces were sent up and down to Smallame, Stichell, and such places near about, but many snappers they gat, some Corn they burnt, besides that which the great host consumed, but small bootie they carried away. The King assembled his Forces at Fallowe (for he was advertised that they had promised to come to Edinburgh ) and took the Musters all at an hour, two days before Hallowe even. There were found with him eighteen thousand able men: Upon the Borders that awaited upon the English Army, were ten thousand good men with the Earl of Huntlie, Lord's Erskin, Seton, and Hume. These were judged men aneuh to hazard Battle, albeit the other were esteemed forty thousand. While the King lay at Fallowe, abiding upon the Gunes, and upon advertisement from the Army. The Lord's began to remember how the King had been long abused by his flatterers, and principally by the Pensioners of the Prelates. It was then concluded that they would make some new remembrance of Lawder brig, to see if that would for a season somewhat help the state of their Country. But because the Lord's could not agree among themselves upon the persons that deserved punishment (for every man favored his friend) the whole escaped, and the purpose was opened to the King, and by him to the courtiers, who till they came to Edinburgh stood in no little fear: but that was suddenly forgot, as we shall after hear. While time is thus protracted, the English army, for want of victuals (as was bruted) retired over Tweid in the night, and so begin to skale & sunder; whereof the King advertised, desired the Lord's and Barons to assist him to follow them into England ; whose answer was with one consent, That to defend his person and Realm, they would hazard life, and whatsoever they had: But to invade England, neither had they so just Title as they desired, neither yet could they be able to do anything to the hurt of England, considering that they had long before been absent from their houses, their provision was spent, their horses wearied, and that which was greatest of all, the time of the year did utterly reclaim. This their answer seemed to satisfy the King: for he in words praised their prudent foresight and wise counsel. But the essay made to his Courtiers, and that bold repulse of his desires given to him in his own face, so wounded his high stomach (for long had he run as himself listed) that he decreeth a notable revenge, which no doubt he had not failed to have executed, if God by his own hand had not cut the days of his life. He returns to Edinburgh, the Nobility, Barons, Gentlemen, and Commons, to their habitations. And this was the second and third days of November.

Without longer delay at the palace of Halyrud-house was a new council assembled, a council we mean of his abusers, wherein were accusations laid against the most part of the Nobility; Some were Heretics; Some favorers of England; Some friends to the Dowglas: and so could there be none faithful to the King in their opinion. The Cardinal and Prelates cast fagotts in the fire with all their force, and finding the King wholly addicted to their devotion, delivered unto him a schroll, containing the names of such as they in their inquisition had convict for Heretics. For this was the order of Justice which these holy Fathers kept in condemning of innocent men; Whosoever would accuse any of Heresy, he was heard, no respect nor consideration had, what mind the accuser bare to the person accused; Whosoever was produced for witness, were admitted, how suspicious and infamous so ever they were; if two or three had proved any point that by their Law was holden Heresy, that was an Heretic: There rested no more but a day to be affixed to his condemnation, and to the execution of their corrupt sentence: What man could be innocent where such • udges were party, the world may this day consider. True it is, by false Judgment and false Witnesses have innocents been oppressed from the beginning. But this freedom to shed innocent blood got never the Devil but in the Kingdom of Antichrist; That the innocent should die, and neither know accuser, nor yet the witness that testifieth against him. But how sh • ll the Antichrist be known, if he shall not be contrarious to God the Father, and his Son Christ Jesus, in Law, Life, and Doctrine. But this we omit. The same schroll had the Cardinal and Prelates once presented to the king before, at that time when he returned from the Navigation about the Isles, in the year 1534. But then it was refused by the prudent and stout council of the Laird of Grainge, who opened clearly to the King the practices of the Prelates, and the danger that thereof might ensue: Which considered by the King (for being out of his passion he was tractable) gave this answer in the palace of Halyrud-house to the Cardinal and Prelates, after that they had uttered their malice, and shown what profit might arise to the Crown, if he would follow their council: Packe you Jugglers, get you to your charges, and reform your own lives, and be not instruments of discord betwixt my Nobility and me; Or else, I vow to God, I shall reform you, not as the King of Denmark by imprisonment doeth, neither yet as the King of England doth by hanging and heading: but I shall reprove you by sharp punishments, if ever I hear such motion of you again. The Prelates dashed and astonished with this answer, ceased for a season to attempt any further by rigor against the Nobility. But now being informed of all proceedings by their Pensioners, Oliver Sincler, Ross Laird of Cragie and others, who were to them faithful in all things: they conclude to hazard once again their former suit: which was no sooner proponed, but as soon it was accepted, with no small regreate, by the Kings own mouth, that he had so long despised their counsel: For (said he) now I plainly see your words to be true; The Nobility neither desire my honor nor countenance, for they would not ride a mile for my pleasure to follow mine enemies: Will ye therefore find me the means how that I may have a road made into England without their knowledge and consent, that it may be known to be mine own read, and I shall bind me to your counsel forever. There were gratulations and clapping of hands; there were promises of diligence, closenesse, and fidelity among them. Finally, conclusion was taken that the West borders of England, which was most empty of men and Garrison, should be invaded. The Kings own Banner should be theirs, Oliver the great Minion should be General-Lieutenant, but no man should be privy (except the counsel that was then present) of the enterprise, till the very day and execution thereof. The Bishops gladly took the charge of that device. Letters were sent to such as they would charge, To meet the King at the day and place appointed: The Cardinal with the Earl of Arran was directed to go to Hadington, to make a show against the East Border, when the others were in readiness to invade the West: And thus neither lacked counsel, practice, closenesse, nor diligence, to set forward that Enterprise; and so among these consulters there was no doubt of any good success. And so was the scroell thankfully received by the king himself, and put into his own pocket, where it remained to the day of his death, and then was found. In it were contained more then an hundred landed men, besides other of meaner degree: Among whom was the Earl of Arran, notwithstanding his siding with the current of the Court, and his nearness in blood to the King. It was bruted that this road was devised by the Lord Maxwell, but the certainty thereof we have not. The night before the day appointed to the Enterprise, the King was found at Lochmabane. To him comes companies from all quarters, as they were appointed, no man knowing of another (for no general Proclamations past, but privy Letters) neither yet did the multitude know anything of the purpose till after midnight when that the trumpet blew. And commanded all men to march forward, and to follow the King (who was constantly supposed to have been in the host) guides were appointed to conduct them towards England, as both faithfully and closely they did; upon the point of day they approached to the enemies ground, and so passed the water without any great resistance made unto them. The forward goeth forth, fear rises, hership might have been seen on every side. The unprovided people were altogether amazed, for bright day appearing, they saw an army of ten thousand men: Their Beacons on every side, send flames of fire unto the heaven: To them it was more then a wonder that such a multitude could have been assembled and conveyed, no knowledge thereof coming to any of their Wardens. For support they looked not, and so at the first they utterly despaired, and yet began they to assemble together, ten in one company, twenty in another, and so as the Fray proceeded their Troopes increased, but to no number (for Carlisle fearing • o have been assaulted, suffered no man to issue out of their gates) and so the greatest number that ever appeared or approached before the discomfiture past not three or four hundredth men, and yet they made hot skirmishing, as in their own ground, in such feats as they are most expert, about ten hours: When fires were kindled, and almost slackened on every side, Oliver thought time to show his glory, and so incontinent was displayed the Kings Banner, and he upholden by two Spears, lift up upon men's shoulders there with sound of Trumpet was proclaimed General Lieutenant, and all men commanded to obey him, as the Kings own Person, under all highest pains. There was preseut the Lord Maxwell, Warden, to whom the regiment of things in absence of the King properly appertaineth. He heard and saw all, but thought more than he spake: There were also present the Earls of Glencarne and Cassels, with the Lord Flemyng, and many other Lord's, Barons, and Gentlemen of Lothaine, Fife, Angus, and Mearnes. In this Mountain did the skirmishing grow hotter than it was before, shouters were heard on every side; some Scottish-men were stricken down, some not knowing the ground, were mired, and lost their horses: Some English Horse of purpose were let loose, to provoke greedy and imprudent men to press at them, as many did, but found no advantage. While such disorder rises more and more in the Army, every man cried aloud▪ My Lord Lieutenant, What will ye do? Charge was given that all men should light, and go to array in order, for they would fight: Others cried, Against whom will ye fight? yonder men will fight none other ways than ye see them do, if ye will stand here while the morrow. New purpose was taken, That the Footmen (they had there with them certain Bands of Soldiers) should safely retire towards Scotland, and the Horse-men should take their Horse again, and so follow in order. Great was the noise and confusion that was heard, while that every man calleth his own sluggards; the day was near spent, and that was the cause of the greatest fear. The Lord Maxwell perceiving what would be the end of such beginnings, stood upon his feet with his friends, who being admonished to take his horse, and provide for himself, answered, Nay, I will rather abide here the chance that it shall please God to send me, than to go home, and there be hanged ; and so he remained upon his foot, and was taken while the multitude fled, and took the greater shame. The enemies perceiving the disorder, increased in courage. Before they shouted, but then they stroke; they shot Spears, and dagged Arrows where the Companies were thickest; some encounters were made, but nothing availeth, the Soldiers cast from them their Pikes and Culverings, and other Weapons fencible; the Horse-men left their Spears, and so without judgment all men fled. The Sea was filling, and so the water made great stop; but the fear was such, as happy was he that might get a taker: Such as passed the water, and escaped that danger, not well acquainted with the ground, fell into the slimy moss; the entry thereof was pleasing enough, but as they proceeded, all that took that way, either lost their horse, or else themselves and horse both. To be short, a greater fear and discomfiture without cause, hath seldom been seen; for it is said, That where the men were not sufficient to take the Bands of prisoners; Some ran to houses, and rendered themselves to women. Stout Oliver was without stroke taken fleeing full manfully. And so was his glory (stinking and foolish proudnesse we should call it) suddenly turned to confusion and shame. In that discomfiture were taken the two Earls aforesaid, the Lord's Fleming, Somerwell, and Olyphant, and many other Barons and Gentlemen, besides the great multitude of servants. Worldly men say, That all this come but by misorder and fortune, as they term it: But whosoever hath the least spark of the knowledge of God, may as evidently see the work of his hand in this discomfiture, as ever was seen in any of the Battells left to us in Register by the holy Ghost: For what more evident Declaration have we that God fought against Benhadad, King of Aram, when he was discomfited at Samaria, than now we have, that God fought with his own Arm against Scotland in this former discomfiture? There did two hundred and thirty persons in the Skirmish, with seven thousand following them in the great Battle, put to flight the said Benhadad, with thirty Kings in his Company. But here there is in this shameful discomfiture of Scotland, very few more than three hundredth men, without knowledge of any Back or Battle to follow, put to flight ten thousand men, without resistance made. There did every man recounter his marrow, till that the two hundred and thirty slew such as matched them: But here, without slaughter, the multitude fled. There had those of Samaria the Prophet of God to comfort, to instruct, and to promise Victory unto them: But England in that pursuit had nothing, but as God secretly wrought by his providence in the men that knew nothing of his working, neither yet of the cause thereof, more then the wall that fell upon the rest of Benhadad's Army knew what it did. And therefore yet again we say, That such as in that sudden dejection beholds not the hand of God fighting against pride, for freedom of his own little Flock injustly persecuted, doth willingly and maliciously obscure the glory of God; but the end thereof is yet more notable. The certain knowledge of the discomfiture coming to the Kings ears (who waited upon news at Lochmaban ) he was stricken with a sudden fear and astonishment, so that scarcely could he speak, or had purpose with any man: The night constrained him to remain where he was; and so went to bed, but rose without rest, or quiet sleep: His continual complaint was, O fled Oliver, is Oliver taken? O fled Oliver: And these words in his melancholy, and as it were carried in a Trance, repeated he from time to time to the very hour of death. Upon the morn, which was Saint Katherines day, returned he to Edinburgh, and so did the Cardinal from Hadington. But the one being ashamed of the other, the brute of their communication came not to public audience. The King made Inventory of his Treasure, of all his Jewels, and other substance. And thereafter ashamed to look any man in the face, secretly departed to Fife, and coming to Hallzairdes, was humanely received of the Lady of Grange, an ancient and godly Matron (the Laird at his coming was absent.) In his company was only with him William Kirk • ldy, now Laird of Grange, and some other that waited upon his Chamber. The Lady at Supper, perceiving him pensive, began to comfort him, and willeth him to take the Work of GOD in good part: My portion, said he, of this world is short, for I will not be with you fifteen days. His servants repairing unto him, asked where he would have provision made for Christmas, which then approached: he answered with a disdainful countenance, I cannot tell, choose you the place; but this I can tell you, Or Christmas day you will be masterless, and the Realm without a King. Because of his displeasure, no man durst make contradiction unto him. So after that he had visited the Castle of Carny, pertaining to the Earl of Crawfurde, where the said Earls daughter, one of his Mistresses was, he returned to Falkland, and took bed. And albeit there appeared unto him no signs of death, yet he constantly affirmed, Before such a day, I shall be dead. In this mean time was the Queen upon the point of her delivery in Lynlitquow, who was delivered the 8 of December, in the year of God, 1542 years, of Mary, that then was born, and now doth reign for a scourge to this Realm, as the progress of her whole life has to this day declared. The certainty that a daughter was born unto him coming to his ears, he turned from such as spake with him, and said, The devil go with it, it will end as it began, it came from a woman, and it will end with a woman. From Mary, daughter to Robert Bruse, married to Walter Stuart, he feared that his daughter should be married to one of another Name and Family; but you see by God's providence, the Crown remains in one and the same Family and Name to this day, notwithstanding the many Plots of the pretenders to the Crown both at home and abroad. After that he spake not many words that were sensible, but ever harped on his old song, Fie, fled Oliver, is Oliver taken, all is lost. In this mean time, in his great extremity, comes the Cardinal (a fit comforter for a desperate man) he cries in his ear; Take order, Sir, with your Realm, who shall rule during the minority of your daughter: ye have known my service, What will ye have done? Shall there not be four Regents chosen? And shall not I be principal of them? Whatsoever the King answered, Documents were taken, That so it should be, as my Lord Cardinal thought expedient. As many affirm, a dead man's hand was made to subscribe one blank, that they might write above what it pleased them best; the Cardinal having hired one Henry Balfour, a Priest, to make a false Testament; which was done accordingly, but in vain. This finished, the Cardinal posted to the Queen, lately before delivered, as is said. At the first sight of the Cardinal, she said, Welcome, my Lord, is not the King dead? What moved her so to conjecture, divers men are of divers judgments. Many whisper that of old his patte was in the pot, and that the suspicion thereof caused him to be inhibit the Queens company. Howsoever it was before, it is plain, That after the Kings death, and during the Cardinals life, whosoever guided the Court, he gate his secret business sped, of that gracious Lady, either by day or by night. Howsoever the tidings liked her, she mended with as great expedition of that daughter, as ever she did before of any son she bare. The time of her Purification was sooner than the Levitical Law appoints: but she was no Jew, and therefore in that she offended not. The noise of the death of King James divulgate, who departed this life the 13 day of December, in the year of God 1542 aforesaid, the hearts of men began to be disclosed. All men lamented that the Realm was left without a male to succeed. Yet some rejoiced that such an enemy to God's Truth was taken away. He was called of some; A good poor man's King: of others he was termed, A murderer of the Nobility, and one that had decreed their whole destruction. Some praised him for the repressing of theft and oppression; others dispraised him for being much given to women. The Prelates and Clergy feared a change in the Kings mind, as he had expressed himself some few years before. And thus men spake even as their affection led them, and yet none spake altogether besides the truth; for part of these aforesaid were so manifest, that as the virtues could not be denied, so could not the vices by any craft be cloaked. Yet to speak truth of him, his vices may justly be attributed to the times, and his breeding, and not any wickedness in his nature; for he gave many expressions of a good nature, namely, in his sobriety and justice, &c. The question of Government was thorough this Realm universally moved. The Cardinal proclaimed the Kings last Will, and therein were expressed four Protectors or Regents, of whom himself was the first and principal, and with him were joined the Earls of Huntley, Argyle, and Murhay: this was done on Monday, at the Market Cross of Edinburgh. But the Monday following took the whole Regents remission for their usurpation: for by the stout and wise counsel of the Laird of Grange, did the Earl of Arran, then so near to the Crown, cause assemble the Nobility of the Realm, and required the equity of their judgments in that his just suit to the Government of this Realm, during the minority of her to whom he pretended to succeed, failing of her, and of her lawful succession. His friends convened, the Nobility assembled, the day of decision is appointed; the Cardinal and his faction opposes them, and are against the Government of one man, and especially of any called Hammilton: For who knows not (said the Cardinal) that the Hammiltons are cruel murderers, oppressors of innocents, proud, avaricious, double, and false, and finally, the pestilence in this Common-wealth? Whereto the Earl answered, Defraud me not of my right, and call me what ye please: whatsoever my friends have been, yet unto this day hath no man cause to complain upon me, neither yet am I minded to flatter any of my friends in their evil doing, but by God's grace shall be as forward to correct their enormities, as any within the Realm can reasonably require of me; And therefore yet again, my Lord's, in God's Name, I crave that ye do me no wrong, nor defraud me of my just Title, before ye have experience of my Government. At these words, were all that feared God, or loved honesty so moved, that with one voice they cried, That Petition is most just; and unless ye will do against God's Justice and Equity, it cannot be denied. And so in despite of the Cardinal, and his suborned Faction, was he declared Governor, and with public Proclamation so denounced to the people. The Kings Palace, Treasure, Jewels, Garments, Horse, and Plate was delivered unto him by the Officers that had the former charge; and he honored, feared; and obeyed, more heartily than ever any King was before, so long as he abode at God. The cause of the great favor that was born unto him, was; That it was bruted that he favored God's Word; and because it was well known that he was one appointed to have been persecuted, as the Scroll found in the Kings pocket after his death did witness. These two things, together with an opinion that men had of his simplicity, bowed the hears of many unto him in the beginning; who after, with dolour of hearts, were compelled to change their opinions: but hereof we will after speak. The variety of matters that occurred, we omit, such as the order taken for keeping of the young Queen; of the provision for the mother; the calling home of the Douglas, and other, such as appertain to a Universal History of the time. For, as before we have said, we mind only to follow the progress of the Religion, and of the matters that cannot be severed from the same.

The Earl of Arran thus being established in the Government, godly men repaired unto him, exhorted him to call to mind for what end God had exalted him to be Governor, out of what danger he had delivered him, he being in the bloody Scroll, as we saw before; and what expectation all men of honesty had of him, because they saw him a soft man, they conceited goodness of him. At their instant suit, more than of his own motion, was Thomas Guilliame, a black Frier, called to be Preacher. The man was of sound judgment, of reasonable letters (as for that age) and of a prompt and good utterance. His Doctrine was wholesome, without great vehemency against superstition. Preached also sometime John Rough, (who after for the verity of Christ Jesus suffered in England ) albeit not so learned, yet more simple, and more vehement against all impiety. The Doctrine of these two provoked against them and against the Governor also, the hatred of all such as more favored darkness than light; and their own interest, more than God. The gray Friers (and amongst the rest Frier Scot, who before had given himself forth for the greatest Professor of Christ Jesus within Scotland, and under that color had disclosed, and so endangered many.) These slaves of Satan rowped as they had been Ravens; yea rather they yelled and roared as devils in hell; Heresy, heresy, Guilliame and Rough will carry the Governor to the devil. The Town of Edinburgh, for the most part, was devoured in superstition. Edward Hope, young William Adamson, Sibilla Lyndsay, Patrick Lyndsay, Francis Aikman ; And in the Cannongate, John Mackaw, and Nivian Brown, with few others, had the burit of knowledge in these days. One Wilson, servant to the Bishop of Dunckell, who neither knew New Testament nor the old; made a despiteful railing Ballad, against the Preachers, and against the Governor, for the which he narrowly escaped hanging. The Cardinal moved both heaven and hell to trouble the Governor to stay the Preaching: but yet was the Battle stoutly fought for a season; for he was taken and put first in Dalkeyt, after in Seaton. But at length, by Bribes given to the said Lord Seaton, and to the old Laird of Lethington, he was restored to Saint Andrew's, from whence he wrought all mischief, as we shall after hear. The PARLIAMENT approached which was before EASTER, there began question of the abolishing of certain Tyrannicall ACTS made before, at the Devotion of the Prelates, for the maintaining of their Kingdom of Darkness. To wit, That under pain of Heresy, no man should read any part of the Scriptures in the Vulgar Tongue, neither yet any Tractate or Exposition of any place of Scripture : Such Articles began to come in question we say: And men began to inquire, If it were not lawful to men that understood no Latin, to use the word of their Salvation in the Tongue they understood, as it was for the Latin men to have it in Latin, Grecians or Hebrews to have it in their Tongues. It was answered, That the Church, he means the Prelates, first had forbidden all Tongues but the three viz. Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. But men demanded, when that Inhibition was given, and what Counsel had ordained it; considering that in the days of Chrysostom, he complained, That the people used the Psalms and other holy Books in their own Tongues: And if ye will say they were Greeks, and understood the Greek Tongue; We answer, That Christ Jesus commanded his word to be Preached to all Nations; now if it ought to be Preached to all Nations, it must be Preached in the Tongue they understand. Then if it be lawful to Preach, and hear it Preached in all Tongues; Why should it not be lawful to read it, and hear it read in all Tongues? to the end that the people may try the spirits, according to the commandment of the Apostle. Beaten with these and other Reasons, they denied not but it might be read in the Uulgar Tongue, provided if the Translation were true. It was demanded, What could be reprehended in it? And when much searching was made, nothing could be found: But that Love say they was put in the place of Charity: When the Question was asked, What difference was betwixt the one and the other; and if they understood the nature of the Greek term 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , they were dumb. Reasoned for the party of the seculars, The L. Ruthwen, father to him that prudently gave counsel to take just punishment upon that knave David, for that he abused the unhappy K. Henry Stuart, in mo cases then one, a stout and a discreet man in the cause of God, and M. Henry Balneves, an old professor. For the part of the Clergy, one Hay, Dean of Lastarrik, and certain old Bishops with him. The conclusion was, the Commissioners of Broughes, and a part of the Nobility, required of the Parliament, that it might be Enacted, That it should be lawful to every man to use the benefit of the Translation which then they had of the Old and New Testament, together with the benefit of other Treatises containing wholesome Doctrine, until such time as the Prelates and other Church-men should give and set forth unto them a Translation more correct. The Clergy hereto long repugned. But in the end convinced by Reasons, and by multitude of voices in their contrary, they also condescended; And so by Act of Parliament it was made free to all men and women to read the Scriptures in their own Uulgar Tongue, and so were all Acts made to the contrary abolished.

This was no small Victory of CHRIST JESUS, fighting against the conjured enemies of his Veritie; No small comfort to such as before were holden in such bondage, that they durst not have read, The Lord's Prayer; The ten Commandments; nor, The Articles of their Faith in the Uulgar Tongue, but they should have been accused of Heresy. Then might have been seen the Bible lying almost upon every Gentleman's Table. The New Testament was borne about in many men's hands. We grant that some (alas) profaned that blessed Word, for some that perchance had never read ten Sentences in it had it most common in their hand, they would chop their familiars on the cheek with it, and say, This hath line under my beds feet these ten years. Others would glory, O how oft have I been in danger for this Book, how secretly have I stolen from my wife at midnight to read upon it. And this was done we say of many to make cowrt, and curry favor thereby: For all men esteemed the Governor to have been one of the most fervent Protestants that was in Europe. Albeit we say that many abused that liberty, granted of God miraculously, yet thereby did the knowledge of God wonderously increase, and God gave his holy spirit to simple men in great abundance: Then were set forth works in our own Tongue, besides those that came from England, that did disclose the pride, the craft, the tyranny, and abuses of that Roman Antichrist. The fame of our Governor was spread in divers countries, and many praised God for him. King Henry the eight sent unto him his Ambassador M. Radulph Saidlair, who lay in Edinburgh a great part of the Summer, his Commission and Negotiation was to contract a perpetual amity betwixt England and Scotland. The occasion whereof God had so offered, that to many men it appeared that from heaven he had declared his good pleasure in that behalf. For to King Henry, of Jane Seymer (after the death of Queen Katherine, and of all others that might have made his Marriage suspect) was given a son, Edward the sixth of blessed memory, elder some years then our Mistress; and unto us was left a Queen, as before we have heard. This wonderful providence of God caused men of greatest judgment to enter into disputation with themselves, Whether that with good conscience any man might repugn to the desires of the King of England, considering that thereby all occasion of War might be cut off, and great commodity might ensue to this Realm. The offers of King Henry was so large, and his demands so reasonable, that all that loved quietness were content therewith. There were sent from the Parliament to King Henry in Commission, Sir James Lermont, and M. Henry Balnevis, who long remaining in England, so travailed, that all things concerning the Marriage betwixt Edward the sixth and Mary Queen of Scots was agreed upon, except the time of her deliverance to the custody of English-men. Upon the final conclusion of the which head, were added to the former Commissioners, William Earl of Glencarne, and Sir George Dowglas, to whom was given ample Commission and good Instructions. In Scotland remained M. Radulph Saidlaire: advertisements past so frequently betwixt, yea, the hands of our Lord's liberally were anointed, besides other commodities promised, and of some received, for divers Prisoners taken at Solway moss, were sent home free upon promise of their fidelity, which as it was kept, the issue will witness. But in the end so well were all once content, (the Cardinal, the Queen, and the faction of France ever excepted) that solemnly in the Abbey of Hallyrud-house was the Contract of Marriage made, betwixt the persons aforesaid, together with all the Clauses and Conditions requisite for the faithful observation thereof, read in public audience, subscribed, sealed, approved, and allowed of the Governor for his part, Nobility and Lord's for their parts, and that nothing should lack that might fortify the matter was Christ's Body sacred (as Papists term it) broken betwixt the said Governor and M. Saidlar Ambassador, and received of them both, as a sign and token of the unity of their minds, immediately to keep that contract in all points, as they looked of Christ Jesus to be saved, and after to be reputed men unworthy of credit before the world. The Papists raged against the Governor, and against the Lord's that had consented and abode fast to the Contract, and to confound all as after follows. But upon the returning of the aforesaid Ambassadors from England, pacification was made for that time, for by the judgments of eight persons for either party chosen, to judge whether that anything was done by the said Ambassadors in the Contracting of that Marriage, which to do, they had not sufficient power from the Counsel and Parliament. It was found that all things were done according to their Commission, and that so they should stand. And so were the Seals of England and Scotland interchanged. Master James Fowls, then Clerke of the Register, received the great Seal of England: And Master Saidlare received the great Seal of Scotland. The heads of the Contract we pass by. These things newly ratified, the Merchants made preparation to Saile, and to their Traffique, which by the troubles of Wars had some years been hindered. From Edinburgh were fraughted twelve Ships richly laden, according to the wares in Scotland: From other Towns and Ports departed other, who all arrived upon the coasts of England toward the South, to wit, in Yarmouth ; and without any great necessity entered not only Roads, but also within Ports and places of commandment, and where that Ships might be arrested. And because of the late contracted amity and gentle entertainment that they found at the first, they made no great dispatch: But being (as they supposed) in security, in merrinesse they spent the time, abiding upon the wind. In this mean time arrived from France to Scotland the Abbot of Paislay (called now of late John Hamilton, bastard brother to the Governor, whom yet many esteemed son to the old Bishop of Dunikelden, called Crichton (and with him M. David Panter, who after was made Bishop of Ross. The brute of the learning of these two, and their honest life, and of their fervency and uprightness in Religion was such, that great hope there was that their presence should be comfortable to the Church of God. For it was constantly affirmed of some, that without delay, the one or the other would go to the Pulpit, and truly Preach Jesus Christ. But few days disclosed their hypocrisy. For what terrors, what promises, or what enchaunting boxes they brought from France, the common people knew not. But shortly after, it was seen that Frier Guilliam • was inhibited to Preach, and so departed into England: John Rough to Kylle (a receptacle of God's servants of old.) The men of counsel, judgment, and godliness that had travailed to promote the Governor, and that gave him faithful counsel in all doubtful matters, were either craftily conveyed from him; or else by threatening to be hanged were compelled to leave him. Of the one number was the Laird of Grange aforesaid, M. Henry Balneves, M. Thomas Ballenden, and Sir David Lindesay of the Mount: Men by whose labors he was promoted to honor, and by whose council he so used himself at the beginning, that the obedience given to him was nothing inferior to that obedience that any King of Scotland of many years had before him, yea, in this it did surmount the common obedience, in that it proceeded from love of those virtues that was supposed to have been in him. Of the number of these that were threatened, were M. Michael Durham, M. David Borthinke, David Forresse, and David Bothwell: who counseled him to have in company with him, men fearing God, and not to nourish wicked men in their iniquity, albeit they were called his friends, and were of his surname: This counsel understood by the aforesaid Abbot, and by the Hamiltons (who then repaired to the Court, as Ravens to the Carrion) in plain words it was said, My Lord Governor nor his friends will never be at quietness, till a dozen of these knaves that abuse his Grace be hanged. These words were spoken in his own presence, and in the presence of some of them that had better deserved, then to have been so used: the speaker was allowed for his plain and bold speaking. And so the wicked counsel followed, honest and godly men left the Court and him, in the hands of such as by their wicked counsel led him so far from God, that he falsified his promise, dipt his hands in the blood of the Saints of God, and brought this Commonwealth to the very point of utter ruin. And these were the first fruits of the Abbot of Paislay his counterfeit Godliness and Learning: But hereof we will hear more. All honest and godly men banished from the Court, the Abbot and his counsel beginneth to lay before the inconstant Governor, the dangers that might ensue the alteration and change of Religion. The power of the King of France, the commodity that might come to him and his house, by retaining the ancient League with France, and the great danger that he brought upon himself, if in one jot he suffereth the authority of the Pope to be violated or called in doubt within this Realm: Considering that thereupon only stood the security of his pretended right to the succession of the Crown of this Realm: For by God's word could not be good the divorcement of his father from Eliz. Hume, sister to the Lord Hume, his lawful wife, and consequently his marriage with Beton, Niece to James Beton, Bishop of S. Andrew's ( Elizabeth Hume being alive) must be null, and he declared Bastard. Caiaphas spake Prophesy, and yet wist not what he spake: For at that time there was hardly any man that truly feared God that minded any such thing, but with their whole force would have fortified him in the place that God had given unto him, and would never have called in question things done in time of darkness. But this head we pass by till God declare his will therein. Another practice was used: As for the Cardinal, he being set at liberty (as before we have heard) ceased not to traffic with such of the Nobility as he might draw to his faction, or corrupt by any means, to raise a party against the said Governor, and against such as stood fast at the Contract of Marriage and Peace with England. And so assembled at Lynlytquow, the said Cardinal, the Earls Argyle, Huntlie, Bothwell, the Bishops and their bands. And thereafter they passed to Strevelin, and took with them both the Queens, the mother and the daughter; and threatened the deposition of the said Governor, as Inobedient to their holy Mother the Church (so term they that harlot of Babylon, Rome ) The inconstant man, not thoroughly grounded upon God, left (by his own fault) destitute of all good counsel, and having the wicked ever blowing in his ear, What will you do? you will destroy yourself and your house both forever. The unhappy man (we say) beaten with these temptations, rendered himself to the appetites of the wicked; for he quietly stole away from the Lord's that were with him in the Palace of Halyrud-house, past to Sterlin, subjected himself to the Cardinal and to his Council, received absolution, renounced the profession of Christ Jesus his holy Gospel▪ and violated his Oath that before he had made, for the observation of the Contract and League made with England. At that time was our Queen crowned, and a promise made to France. The certainty hereof coming to King Henry, our Scottish Ships were stayed, the Sails taken from the Rigs, and the Merchants and Mariners were commanded to sure custody. New Commission was sent to Master Radulph Saidler (who then still remained in Scotland ) to demand the cause of that sudden alteration, and to travel by all means possible, that the Governor might be called back to his former godly purpose, and that he would not do so foolishly, and dishonestly, yea, so cruelly and unmercifully to the Realm of Scotland: that he would not only lose the commodities offered, and that were presently to be received. But that also that he would put it to the hazard of fire and sword, and other inconveniences that might ensue the war that was to follow upon the violation of his Faith. But nothing could avail. The devil kept fast the grype that he got, yea all the days of his government: For the Cardinal got his eldest son in pledge, whom he kept in the Castle of S. Andrew's, while the day that God's hand punished his pride. King Henry perceiving that all hope of the Governors repentance was lost, called back his Ambassadors, and that with fearful threatenings as Edinburgh after felt: Denounced War, made our Ships prises, and Merchants and Mariners lawful prisoners, which to the Broughes of Scotland was no small hership. But thereat did the Cardinal and Priests laugh, and jestingly he said, When we shall conquer England the Merchants shall be recompensed. The Summer and the Harvest passed over without any notable thing: For the Cardinal and Abbot of Paislay parted the prey amongst them; The abused Governor bare the name only. In the beginning of Winter came the Earl of Lenox to Scotland, sent from France in hatred of the Governor, whom the King (by the Cardinals advice) promised to pronounce Bastard, and so to make the said Earl Governor; First, because he himself was borne by Beto • , his fathers lawful wife, Elizabeth Humes being yet alive; Next, because his Grandfather was borne by Mary Stuart to James Hamilton, when her lawful husband Thomas Bo • d was yet alive. So the Earl of Lenox did not only pretend to be lawfully next to the Crown, as the late King James the fifth did often declare, That if he died without heir male, he would settle the Crown upon him, but also lawful heir of the Earldom of Arran, as being descended from Margaret Hamilton, borne to Mary Stuart and James Hamilton, after the death of Thomas Boyd her former husband (now by this time the inconstant Earl of Arran had given himself wholly to the Cardinal) The Cardinal farther put the E. of Lenox in vain hope that the Queen Dowager should marry him. He brought with him some money and more he after received at the hands of Labrosse. But at length perceiving himself frustrate of all expectation that he had, either by France, or yet by the promise of the Cardinal; he concludeth to leave France, and to seek the favor of England: And so began to draw a faction against the Governor, and in hatred of the others inconstancy many favored him in the beginning: For there assembled at Christmas in the Town of Air, the Earls of Angus, Glencarne, Cassilles ; The Lord Maxwell, The Laird of Dumlanrig, The Sheriff of Air, Campbell ; with all the force that they and the Lord's that remained constant at the opinion of England might make; and after Christmas they came to light. The Governor and Cardinal with their forces kept Edinburgh (for they were slackly pursued) Men excused the Earl of Lenox in that behalf, and laid the blame upon some that had no will of the Stewards Regiment. Howsoever it was, such an appointment was made, that the said Earl of Lenox was disappointed of his purpose, and narrowly escaped, and first gat him to Glasgow, and after to Dumbartane. Sir George Dowglas was delivered to be kept as pledge. The Earl his brother was in the Lent after taken at the siege of Glasgow. It was bruted, that both the brethren, and others with them had lost their heads, if by the providence of God the English Army had not arrived in time. After that the Cardinal had gotten the Governor wholly addict to his devotion, and had obtained his intent above a part of his enemies: He began to practice, how that such as he feared, and therefore deadly hated, should be set by the ears, one against another (for in that thought the carnal man put his greatest security) The Lord Ruthwen he hated, by reason of his knowledge of God's Word. The Lord Gray he feared, because at that time he used the company of such as professed godliness, and bare small favor to the Cardinal. Now thus reasoned the worldly wise man; If I can put enmity betwixt these two, I shall be rid of a great number of unfriends; For the most part of the Country will either assist the one or the other, and so will they be otherwise occupied, then to watch for my displeasure. He finds the means without long process; for he labors with John Chartarous (a man of stout courage and many friends) to accept the Provostrie of S. Johnston, which he purchased to him by donation of the Governor, with a charge to the said Town, to obey him as their lawful Provost: Whereat not only the said Lord Ruthwen, but also the Town being offended, gave a negative answer; alleging that such intrusion of men to office was hurtful to their privilege and freedom: which granted unto them free election of their Provost from year to year, at a certain time appointed, which they could not nor would not anticipate. Hereat the said John, offended, said, That he would take that office by force, if they would not grant it unto him of benevolence. And so departed and communed the matter with the Lord Gray, with Norman Leslie, and with others his friends, whom he easily persuaded to assist him in that pursuit. Because he appeareth to have the Governors right, and had not only a charge to the Town, as is said, but also he purchased Letters to besiege it, and to take it by strong hand, if any resistance were made unto him. Such letters, we say, made many to favor his action. The other made for defense, and so took the Master of Ruthuen, (the Lord that after departed into England ) the maintenance of the town, having in his company the Laird of Montcreif, and other friends adjacent. The said John prepared for the pursuit, and upon Saint Magdalens day in the morning, anno. 1543. approached with his Forces (the Lord Grey took upon him the principal charge. It was appointed, that Norman Lesley, with his friends, should have come by Ship with Munition and Ordnance, as they were in readiness. But because the Tide served not so soon as they would: the o •• er thinking himself of sufficient force for all that were in the Town, entered in by the Bridge, where they found no resistance, till that the former part was entered a pretty space within the Fish-Gate ; And then the said Master of Ruthuen with his Company stoutly recountred them, and so rudely repulsed the foremost, that such as were behind gave back. The place of the retreat was so strait, that men that durst not fight, could not fly at their pleasure (for the most part of my Lord Grayes friends were upon the Bridge) and so the slaughter was great; for there fell by the edge of the Sword threescore men . The Cardinal had rather that the mishap had fallen on the other part: but howsoever it was, he thought that such trouble was his comfort, and advantage. The knowledge whereof came to the ears of the party discomfited, and was unto them no small grief. For as many of them entered into that action for his pleasure, so thought they to have had Fortification and assistance; whereof finding themselves frustrate, they began to look more narrowly to themselves, and did not so attend upon the Cardinals devotion, as they had wont to do before: and so was a new jealousy engendered among them; for whosoever would not play the good servant unto him, was reputed his enemy. The Cardinal drew the Governor to Dundie ; for he understood that the Earl of Rothesse, and Master Henry Balnaveis were with the Lord Gray in the Castle of Huntley. The Governor sent and commanded the said Earl and Lord, with the foresaid Master Henry to come unto him to Dundie, and appointed the next day, at ten of the clock before noon; which hour they decreed to keep, and for that purpose assembled their folks at Balgavie, or thereby. The Cardinal advertised of their number (they were no more than 300 men) thought it not good that they should join with the Town; for he feared his own estate, and so he persuaded the Governor to pass forth of Dundie before nine hours, and to take the straight way to S. Johnston: which perceived by the foresaid Lord's, they began to fear that they were come to pursue them, and so put themselves in order, and array, and marched forward of purpose to have bidden the uttermost. But the crafty fox foreseeing that in fighting stood not his security, ran to his last refuge, that is, To manifest Treason, and so consultation was taken how that the force of the others might be broken. And at the first were sent the Laird of Grange, and the Provost of S. Andrew's (knowing nothing of the Treason) to ask why they molested my Lord Governor in his journey. Whereto they answered, That they meant nothing less, for they came at his Graces Commandment, to have kept the hour in Dundie appointed by him; which because they saw prevented, and knowing the Cardinal to be their friend, they could not but suspect their unprovided coming forth of the Town, and therefore they put themselves in order, not to invade, but to defend, in case they were invaded. This answer reported, was sent to the Bishop of Saint Audrewes, the Abbot of Paisley, Master David Panter, the Lairds of Balcleuch and Coldinknowes, to desire certain of the other company to talk with them; which they easily obtained (for they suspected no treason.) After long communication, it was demanded, If that the Earl and Lord, and Master Henry aforesaid, would not be content to talk with the Governor, provi • ed that the Cardinal and his company were on the place: They answered, That the Governor might command them in all things lawful. But they had no will to be in the Cardinals mercy. Fair promises enow were made for their security. Then was the Cardinal and his Band commanded to depart, as that he did, according to the purpose taken. The Governor remained, and a certain number with him: To whom came without company, the said Earl, Lord, and M. Henry. After many fair words given to them all, to wit, That he would have them agreed with the Cardinal, and that he would have Master Henry Balnaves the worker and instrument thereof, he drew them forwards with them towards Saint Johnston, whereto the Cardinal was ridden. They began to suspect (albeit it was too late) and therefore they desired to have returned to their folks, for putting order unto them: But it was answered, They should send back from the town, but they must needs go forward with my Lord Governor: and so, partly by flattery, and partly by force, they were compelled to obey; and as soon as they were in the Town, they were apprehended, and on the morrow sent all three to the Black Nesse, where they remained as it pleased the Cardinals graceless Grace, and that was till the Band of Manred, and of service, set some of them at liberty. And thus the Cardinal with his craft persuaded on every side; so that the Scots Proverb was true in him, So long rinnes the Fox, as he fute hes. Whether it was at this journey, or at another, that that bloody butcher executed his cruelty upon the innocent persons in S. Johnston, we cannot affirm: neither yet therein study we to be curious, but rather we travel to express the verity, whensoever it was done, than scrupulously and exactly to appoint times▪ which yet we omit not, when the certainty occurs. The verity of that cruel fact is this; At S. Paul's day, before the first burning of Edinburgh, came to S. Johnston the Governor and Cardinal, and there upon envious delation, were a great number of honest men and women called before the Cardinal, and accused of heresy. And albeit they could be convinced of nothing, but only of suspicion that they had eaten a Goose upon Friday, four men were adjudged to be hanged, and a woman to be drowned; which cruel and most unjust sentence, was without mercy put in execution: the husband was hanged, and the wife, having a sucking babe upon her breast, was drowned. O Lord, the Land is not yet purged from such beastly cruelty, neither hath thy just vengeance yet stricken all that were criminal of their blood. But the day approacheth when that the punishment of that cruelty, and of others, will evidently appears. The names of the men that were hanged, were, James Hunter, William Lamb, William Anderson, James Ruvals, Burgess of Saint Johnston. At that same time were banished, Sir Henry Eldar, John Eldar, Walter Piper, Laurence Pullar, with divers others, whose names come not to our knowledge. That sworn enemy to Christ Jesus, and unto all in whom any spark of knowledge appeared, had about that time in prison divers; amongst whom was John Roger, a black Frier, godly and learned, one that had fruitfully preached Christ Jesus, to the comfort of many in Angus and Mearnes, whom that bloody man caused to murder in the ground of the Sea Tower in S. Andrew's, and then caused to cast him over the wall, spreading a false brute, That the said John seeking to fly, had broken his own neck. This ceased not Satan by all means to maintain his kingdom of Darkness, and to suppress the light of Christ's Gospel. But mighty is he against whom they •• ght: for when the wicked were in greatest security, then began God to show his anger. For the third day of May, in the year of our Lord 1544 years, without knowledge of any man in Scotland, (we mean of such as should have had the care of the Realm) was seen a great Navy of Ships arriving towards the Fyrth. The Posts came to the Governor and Cardinal (who both were in Edinburgh ) what multitude of Ships were seen, and what course they took. This was on the Saturday before noon. Question was had, What should they mean? Some said, It is no doubt but they are English-men, and we fear that they will land. The Cardinal skipped, and said, It is the Island flote, they are come to make a show, and to put us in fear. I shall lodge all the men of War in mine eye, that shall land in Scotland. Still sitteth the Cardinal at his dinner, eating as though there had been no danger appearing. Men assembled to gaze upon the Ships, some to the Castle hill, some to the mountains, and other places eminent. But there was no question, With what Forces shall we resist, if we be invaded. Soon after six of the clock at night, were arrived, and had cast Ankor in the Road of Leith, more than two hundred Sail. Shortly after, the Admiral shot a flott Boat, which from Granton hills, till by East Leith, sounded the deep, and so returned to her Ship. Hereof were divers opinions; men of judgment foresaw what it meant, but no credit was given to any that would say, They minded to land, and so passed every man to his rest, as if the Ships had been a guard for their defense. Upon the point of day upon Sunday the fourth of May, address they for landing, and they ordered the Ships so, that a Galley or two laid their snouts to the hills: the small Ships, called Pinnaces and light Horse-men, approached as near as they could. The great Ships discharged their Soldiers into the smaller Vessels, and they by Boats set upon dry Land before ten of the clock, 10000 men, as was judged, and more. The Governor and Cardinal seeing then the thing that they could not, or at least they would not believe before, after they had made a brag to fight, fled as fast as horse could carry them; so that after, they approached not within twenty miles of the danger. The Earl of Angus, and Sir George Dowglas were that night freed of Ward (they were in Blackness ) The said Sir George in merrinesse, said, I thank King Henry, and my gentle Masters of England. The English Army betwixt one and two of the clock entered into Leith, found the Tables covered, the dinners prepared, such abundance of wine and victuals, besides the other substance, that the like riches within the like bounds was not to be found neither in Scotland nor England. Upon Monday the fifth of May, came to them from Barwick and the borders, two thousand Horse-men, who being somewhat reposed, the Army upon the Wednesday marched toward the Town of Edinburgh, spoiled and burnt the same, and so did they the Palace of Halyrud-house. The Horse-men took the House of Craigmiller, and gat great spoils therein; for it being judged the strongest House near the Town, after the Castle of Edinburgh, and all men sought to save their moveables therein. But the stoutness of the Laird gave it over, without shot of Hacke but, and for his reward was caused to march upon his feet to London: He is now Captain of Dumbar, and Provost of Edinburgh. The English-men seeing no resistance, hurled by force of men Cannons upon the street, to the Butter trone, and above, and hazarded a shot against the fore-entry of the Castle; but that was to their own pains; For they lying without Trench or Gabion, were exposed to the force of the whole Ordnance of the said Castle, which shot, and that not all in vain, for the Wheel and Axletree of one of the English Cannons was broken, and some of their men slain, and so they left with small honor, that enterprise taken rather of rashness, than of any advised counsel. When the most part of the day they had spoiled and burnt, towards the night they returned to Leith, and upon the morrow returned to Edinburgh, and executed the rest of God's judgments for that time. And so when they had consumed both the Towns, they laded the Ships with the spoils thereof, and they by Land returned to Barwick, using the Country, for the most part, at their own pleasure. This was a part of the punishment which God took upon the Realm for the infidelity of the Governor, and for the violation of his solemn Oath. But this was not the end; for the Realm was divided into two factions; the one favored France, the other the League lately contracted with England: The one did in no things credit thoroughly the other, so that the Country was in extreme calamity: for to the English-men were delivered divers Strengths, such as Carelaverock, Lochmaben, and Langham: the most part of the Borderers were confederate with England: And albeit at Ancrome mure in February, in the year of God 1544. was Sir Rafe Ewers, with many other English-men slain, and the year after were some of the said strengths recovered, yet was it not without great loss and detriment of the Common-wealth: For in the month of January, in the year of God 1545. Monsieur de Lorge, with Bands of men of War, came from France, for a destruction to Scotland: For upon their brag was an Army raised; forwards they go towards Warke, even in the midst of harvest. The Cardinals Banner was that day displayed, and all his Files were charged: to be under it many had before promised, but at the point it was left so bare, that with shame it was shut up into the pock again, and they after a show returned with more shame to the Realm, then hurt to their enemies. The black book of Hamilton maketh mention of great vassalage done at that time by the Governor and the French: but such as with their eyes saw the whole progress, knew that to be a lie, and do repute it amongst the venial sins of that race, which is to speak the best of themselves they can. That winter following so nurtured the French-men, that they learned to eat (yea to beg) cakes (which at their entry they scorned) without jesting; they were so miserably used, that few returned into France again with their lives. The Cardinal then had almost fortified the Castle of S. Andrew's, which he made so strong in his opinion, that he regarded neither England nor France. The Earl of Lenox, as is said, disappointed of all things in Scotland, passed into England, where he was received of King Henry into protection, who gave him to wife Lady Margaret Dowglas, of whom was borne Henry, sometime husband to our Queen and Mistress. While the inconstant Governor was sometimes dejected, and sometimes raised up again by the Abbot of Paislay (who before was called, Chaster then any maiden ) began to show himself; for after he had taken by craft the Castles of Edinburgh and Dumbar, he took also possession of his enemies wife, the Lady Stanehouse. The woman is and hath been famous, and is called, Lady Gilton: her Ladyship was holden always in poverty. But how many wives and virgins he hath had since, and that in common, the world knoweth, albeit not all, and his bastard birds bear some witness. Such is the example of holiness, that the flock may receive of the Papistical Bishops. In the midst of all the calamities that came upon this Realm, after the defection of the Governor from Christ Jesus, came into Scotland that blessed Martyr of God M. George Wischarde, in company of the Commissioners before mentioned in the year of our Lord 1544. a man of such graces, as before him was never heard within this Realm, yea, and are rare to be found yet in any man, notwithstanding this great light of God that since his days hath shined unto us: he was not only singularly learned, as well in all Godly knowledge, as in all honest human Science: but also he was so clearly illuminated with the spirit of Prophesy, that he saw not only things pertaining to himself, but also such things as some Towns, and the whole Realm afterward felt, which he forespake not in secret, but in the audience of many, as in their own places shall be declared. The beginning of his Doctrine was in Mount Ross, therefrom he departed to Dundie, where with great admiration of all that heard him, he taught the Epistle to the Romans: till that by procurement of the Cardinal, Robert Myle, then one of the principal men in Dundie, and a man that of old had professed knowledge, and for the same had suffered trouble, gave, in the Queens and Governors name, Inhibition to the said Master George, that he should trouble their Town no more, for they would not suffer it: And this was said to him being in the public place; which heard, he mused a pretty space, with his eyes bent unto the heaven. And thereafter looking sorrowfully to the speaker, and unto the people, he said, God is witness that I never minded your trouble, but your comfort: yea, your trouble is more dolourous unto me, then it is unto yourselves: But I am assured, that to refuse God's word and to chase from yo • his messenger shall not preserve you from trouble, but it shall bring you into it: For God shall send unto you messengers who will not be afraid of burning, nor yet for banishment. I have offered unto you the word of Salvation, and with the hazard of my life I have remained amongst you. Now ye yourselves refuse me, and therefore must I leave my Innocence to be declared by my God, if it be long prosperous with you, I am not led with the Spirit of Truth. But if trouble unlooked for apprehend you, acknowledge the cause, and turn to God. For he is merciful, but if ye turn not at the first, he will visit you with fire and sword. These words pronounced, he came down from the Preaching place. In the Church present was the Lord Marshall, and divers noble men, who would have had the said M. George to have remained, or else to have gone with them into the Country. But for no request would he either tarry in the town or on that side of Tay any longer. But with possible expedition past to the West-land, where he began to offer God's word, which was of many gladly received, till that the Bishop of Glasgow, Dumbar, by instigation of the Cardinal, came with his gatherings to the Town of Air to make resistance to the said M. George, and did first take the Church. The Earl of Glencarne being thereof advertised, repaired with his friends to the Town with diligence, and so did divers Gentlemen of Kyle (amongst whom was the Laird of Lefnoreise, a man far different from him that now liveth, in the year of our Lord 1566. in manners and Religion) of whom to this day yet many live, and have declared themselves always zealous and bold in the cause of God, as after will be heard. When all were assembled, conclusion was taken that they would have the Church. Whereto the said M. George utterly repugned • saying, Let him alone, his Sermon will not much hurt▪ Let us go to the Market Cross: And so they did, where he made so notable a Sermon, that the very enemies themselves were confounded. The Bishop Preached to his Jackmen, and to some old Bosses of the Town. The sum of all his Sermon was, They say we, should Preach; Why not? Better late thrive, then never thrive. Hold us still for your Bishop; and we shall provide better the next time. This was the beginning and the end of the Bishops Sermon: Who with haste departed the Town, but returned not to fulfill his promise. The said M. George remained with the Gentlemen in Kyle, till that he gat sure knowledge of the estate of Dundie. He Preached commonly at the Church of Gastonne, and used much in the Barrie. He was required to come to the Church of Machlyne, and so he did: But the Sheriff of Air caused to man the Church, for preservation of a Tabernacle that was there beautiful to the eye. The persons that held the Church was George Campbell of Mongarswood, that yet liveth Anno 1566. Mung • Campbell of Bro •• side, George Rid in Dandilling the Laird of Tempilland.

Some zealous of the Parish, amongst whom was Hugh Campbell of Kingarcleuch, offended that they should be debarred their Parish Church, concluded by force to enter. But the said M. George withdrew the said Hugh, and said unto him, Brother, Christ Jesus is as mighty upon the fields as in the Church; And I find that • e himself after Preached in the Desert, at the sea side, and other places judged profane then, he did in the Temple of Jerusalem. It is the word of Peace that God sends by me: The blood of no man shall be shed this day for the Preaching of it. And so withdrawing the whole people, he came to a ditch in a More-edge, upon the South-west side of Machlyne, upon the which he ascended: The whole multitude stood and sat about him (God gave the day pleasant and hot) he continued in Preaching more then three hours: In that Sermon God wrought so wonderfully with him, that one of the most wicked men that was in that country, named Larence Ranckin, Laird of Sheld, was converted. The tears ran from his eyes in such abundance, that all men wondered; His conversion was without hypocrisy, for his life and conversation witnessed it in all times to come. While this faithful servant of God was thus occupied in Kyle, word rose, that the Plague of Pestilence rose in Dundie, which began four days after that the said M. George was inhibited Preaching, and was so vehement, that it passed almost credibility, to hear how many departed every four and twenty hours. The certainty understood, the said Master George took his leave of Kyle, and that with the regrate of many. But no request could make him to remain; His reason was, They are now in trouble, and they need comfort: Perchance this hand of God will make them now to magnify and reverence that word which before (for the fear of men) they set at l • ght price. Coming unto Dundie, the joy of the faithful was exceeding great. He delayed no time, but even upon the morrow gave signification that he would Preach. And because the most part were either sick, or else were in company with those that were sick, he choosd the head of the East port of the Town for his Preaching place, and so the whole stood or sat within, the sick and suspected without the Port or gate. The Text upon the which his first Sermon was made, he took from the hundred and seventh Psalm; The Sentence thereof, He sent his Word and healed them ; And therewith joined these words, It is neither herb nor plaster, O Lord, but thy Word healeth all. In which Sermon he most comfortably did entreat of the dignity & utility of God's word, the punishment that comes for the contempt of the same; the promptitude of God's mercy to such as truly turn to him; yea, the great happiness of them whom God taketh from this misery, even in his own gentle visitation, which the malice of man can neither mend nor pair. By the which Sermon he so raised up the hearts of all that heard him, that they regarded no death, but judged them more happy that should depart, then such as should remain behind. Considering that they knew not if they should have such a comforter with them at all times. He spared not to visit them that lay in the very extremity. He comforted them as he could, being such a multitude; He caused minister all things necessary to those that could use meat or drink, and in that point was the Town wondrous beneficial; for the poor was no more neglected then was the rich. While he was spending his life to comfort the afflicted, the Devil ceased not to stir up his own son the Cardinal again, who corrupted by money a desperate Priest, named Sir John Weighton, to slay the said M. George, who looked not to himself in all things so circumspectly as worldly men would have used. And upon a day the Sermon ended and the people departing, no man suspecting danger, and therefore not heeding the said M. George ; The Priest that was corrupted stood waiting at the foot of the steps, his gown loose, and his dagger drawn in his hand under his gown. The said Master George, as that he was most sharp of eye and judgment, marked him, and as he came near, he said; My friend, what would you do? And therewith he clapped his hand upon the Priests hand wherein the dagger was, which he took from him. The Priest abashed fell down at his feet, and openly confessed the verity as it was. The noise rising, and coming to the ears of the sick. They cried, Deliver the traitor to us, or else we will take him by force ; And so they burst in at the gate: But M. George took him in his arms, and said, Whosoever troubles him shall trouble me, for he hath hurt me in nothing, but he hath done great comfort to you and me, to wit, he hath let us to understand what we may fear, in times to come we will watch better: And so he appeased both the one part and the other, and saved the life of him that sought his. When the Plague was so ceased that almost there was none sick, he took his leave of them, and said, That God had almost put an end to that battle. He found himself called to another place. The Gentlemen of the West had written unto him that he should meet them at Edinburgh ; for they would require Disputation of the Bishops, and that he should be publicly heard, whereto he willingly agreed. But first he passed to Montrosse to salute the Church there, where he remained, occupied sometimes in Preaching, but most part in secret Meditation: In the which he was so earnest, that night and day he would continue in it, while he was so occupied with his God, the Cardinal drew a secret draught for his slaughter; He caused to write unto him a Letter, as it had been from his most familiar friend, the Laird of Kinneir, desiring him with all possible diligence to come unto him, for he was stricken with a sudden sickness. In the mean time had the traitor provided 60 men with Jacks and Spears to lie in wait within a mile and half to the town of Montrosse for his dispatch. The Letter coming to his hand, he made haste at first (for the boy had brought a horse) and so with some honest men he passed forth of the Town, but suddenly he stayed, and musing a space, returned back, whereat they wondering, he said, I will not go, I am forbidden of God, I am assured there is treason; Let some of you, saith he, go to yonder place, and tell me what ye find. Diligence made; They found the Treason as it was, which being shewn with expedition to M. George, he answered, I know that I shall end my life in that blood-thirsty man's hands, but it will not be on this manner. The time approaching that he had appointed to meet the Gentlemen at Edinburgh, he took his leave at Montrosse, and sore against the judgment of the Laird of Dune, entered on his journey, and so returned to Dundie. But remained not, but passed to the house of a faithful brother named James Watson, who dwelt in Inner-Gowrie, distant from the said Town two miles, and that night (as information was given to us, by William Spadin and John Watson, both men of good credit) before day he passed forth into a yard, the said William & John followed privily, and took heed what he did, when he had gone up and down in an alley a reasonable space, with many sobs and deep groans, h • fell upon his knees, and sitting thereon, his groans increased. And from hise knees he fell upon his face. And then the persons aforenamed, heard weeping, and as it were, an indigest sound of prayers, in the which he continued near an hour, and after began to be quiet, and so arose, and came into his bed. They that waited upon him came before, as if they had been ignorant, till that he came in, and then began they to demand where he had been: But that night he would answer nothing. Upon the morrow they urged him again; and while that he dissembled, they said, M. George, Be plain with us, for we heard your mourning, and saw you both upon your knees, and upon your face. With dejected visage, he said, I had rather ye had been in your beds, and it had been more profitable for you; for I was scarce well occupied. When they instantly urged him to let them know some comfort, he said, I will tell you, That I am assured that my travel is near an end, and therefore call to God with me, that now I shrink not when the battle waxes most hot. And while that they weeped and said, That was small comfort unto them ; he answered, God shall send you comfort after me. This Realm shall be illuminated with the light of Christ's Gospel, as clearly as ever any Realm since the days of the Apostles. The House of God shall be built in it; yea, it shall not lack (whatsoever the enemy imagine in the contrary) the very Kepstone, meaning, That it should once be brought to the full perfection. Neither (said he) shall this be long to▪ there shall not many suffer after me, till that the glory of God shall evidently appear, and shall once triumph in despite of Satan. But alas, if the people shall be after unthankful, then fearful and terrible shall the plagues be that shall follow. And with these words he marched forwards in his journey towards S. Johnston, and so to Fife, and then to Leyth, where he arrived; and hearing no word of those that appointed to meet him, to wit. The Earl of Cassels, and the Gentlemen of Kyle and Cuninghame, he kept himself secret a day or two. But beginning to wax sorrowful in spirit, and being demanded of the cause, of such as were not in his company before, he said, What differ I from a dead man, except that I eat and drink? To this time God hath used my labors to the instruction of others, and unto the disclosing of darkness, and now I lurk as a man that were ashamed, and durst not show himself before men. By these and the like words, they that heard him understood that his desire was to preach, and therefore said, Most comfortable it was unto us to hear you; but because we know the danger wherein ye stand, we dare not desire you. But dare ye and others hear (said he) and then let my God provide for me as best pleaseth him. Finally, it was concluded, That the next Sunday he should preach in Leith, as he did, and took the Text, The Parable of the sower that went forth to sow seed, Matth. 13. And this was upon the fifteenth day before Christmas. The Sermon ended, the Gentlemen of Lowthan, who then were earnest Professors of Christ Jesus, thought not expedient that he should remain in Leith, because that the Governor and Cardinal were shortly to come to Edinburgh, and therefore they took him with them, and kept him sometimes in Brunston, sometimes in Langnidrie, and sometimes in Ormeston. For these three diligently waited upon him. The Sunday following, he preached in the Church of Enneresk, besides Mussilburgh, both before and at after noon, where there was a great confluence of people, amongst whom was Sir George Dowglas, who after the Sermon said publicly, I know that my Lord Governor. and my Lord Cardinal shall hear that I have been at this preaching (for they were then at Edinburgh ) Say unto them, That I will avow it, and will not only maintain the Doctrine that I have heard, but also the person of the Teacher, to the uttermost of my power. Which words greatly rejoiced the people, and the Gentlemen then present. One thing notable in that Sermon we cannot pass by: Amongst others, there came two gray Friers, and standing in the entry of the Church door, they made some whispering to such as came in: which perceived, the Preacher said to the people that stood near them, I heartily pray you to make room to those two men, it may be that they be come to learn. And unto them he said, Come near (for they stood in the very entry of the door) for I assure you ye shall hear the Word of verity, which shall either seal in you this same day your salvation or condemnation. And so proceeded he in Doctrine, supposing they would have been quiet: But when he perceived them still to trouble the people that stood near them (for vehement was he against the false worshipping of God) he turned unto them the second time, and with an ireful countenance said, O Sergeants of Satan, and deceivers of the souls of men, Will ye neither hear God's Truth, nor suffer others to hear it; Depart, and take this for your portion, God shall shortly confound and disclose your hypocrisy within this Realm; ye shall be abominable unto men, and your places and habitations shall be desolate. This Sentence he pronounced with great vehemency in the midst of the Sermon: And turning to the people, he said, You wicked men have provoked the Spirit of God to anger. And so he returned to his matter, and proceeded to the end. The days travel was ended, he came to Langindrie, and the two next Sundays preached in Tranent, with the like grace, and like confluence of people. In all his Sermons after his departure from Augus, he forespake the shortness of the time that he had to travel, and of his death, the day whereof approached nearer than any would believe. In the latter end of those days that are called the holy days of Christmas, past he, by consent of the Gentlemen, to Hadington, where it was supposed the greatest confluence of people should be, both by reason of the Town, and of the Country adjacent. The first day before noon, the auditors were reasonable, and yet nothing in comparison of that which used to be in that Church. But the afternoon, and the next day following before noon, the auditory was so slender, that many wondered. The cause was judged to have been, That the Earl Bothwell, who in those bounds used to have great credit and obedience, by procurement of the Cardinal, had given inhibition, as well unto the Town, as unto the Country, that they should not hear him, under the pain of his displeasure. The first night he lay within the Town, with David Forest, now called the General, a man that long professed the truth, and upon whom many in that time depended. The second night he lay in Lethington, the Laird whereof was ever civil, albeit not persuaded in Religion. The day following, before the said M. George past to the Sermon, there came to him a boy, with a Letter from the Westland ; which received and read, he called for John Knox, who had waited upon him carefully from the time he came to Louthaine, with whom he began to enter into purpose, That he wearied of the world, for he perceiveth that men began to be weary of God. The cause of his complaint was; The Gentlemen of the West had written unto him, That they could not keep the meeting at Edinburgh. The said Io. Knox wondering that he desired to keep any purpose before Sermon (for that was not his accustomed use before) said, Sir, the time of Sermon approacheth, I will leave you for the present to your meditation. And so he took the Bill containing the purpose aforesaid, and left him: the said Master George walked up and down behind the high Altar more than half an hour. His weary countenance and visage declared the grief and alteration of his mind. At last he passeth to the Pulpit; but the Auditory was small, he should have begun to have treated of the second Table of the Law: but thereof in that Sermon spake he very little. He began on this manner: O Lord, How long shall it be that thy holy Word shall be despised, and men shall not regard their own salvation? I have heard of thee, Hadington, That in thee would have been, at any vain Clarke Play, two or three thousand people; and now to hear the Messenger of the Eternal God, of all the Town or Parish, cannot be numbered one hundred persons: Sore and fearful shall the plagues be, that shall ensue upon of this thy contempt, with fire and sword shalt thou be plagued: Yea, thou Hadington in special, strangers shall possess thee, and you the present inhabitants shall either in bondage serve your enemies, or else ye shall be chased from your own habitations; and that because ye have not known, nor will not know the time of God's merciful visitation. In such vehemency and threatening continued that servant of God, near an hour and an half; in the which he declared all the plagues that ensued as plainly, as after our eyes saw them performed. In the end he said, I have forgotten myself, and the matter that I should have treated of: But let these my last words concerning public Preaching remain in your minds, till that God send you new comfort. Thereafter he made a short Paraphrase upon the second Table, with an Exhortation to patience, to the fear of God, and unto the works of mercy, and so ended, as it were making his last Testament, as the issue declared fully. The Spirit of Truth and of true Judgment were both in his heart and mouth: for that same night was he apprehended before midnight, in the house of Ormeston, by the Earl Bothwell, made for money butcher to the Cardinal. The manner of his taking was thus: Departing from the town of Hadington, he took his good-night, as it were, forever, of all his acquaintance, especially from Hewe Dowglas of Langindrie. John Knox pressing to have gone with the said Master George, he said, Nay, return to your children, and God bless you; one is sufficient for one Sacrifice. And so the said John Knox albeit unwillingly obeyed, and returned with Hewe Dowglas of Langindrie, Master George having to accompany him the Laird of Ormeston, John Sandelandes of Calder younger, the Laird of Brounston, and others, with their servants, passed upon foot (for it was a vehement Frost) to Ormeston. After supper he held comfortable purpose of God's chosen children, and merrily said, Methinke that I desire earnestly to sleep: And therewith he said, Shall we sing a Psalm? And so he appointed the One and fiftieth Psalm, which was put in Scottish Meeter, and began thus, Have mercy on me now good Lord after thy great mercy, &c. Which being ended, he past to his Chamber, and sooner then his common diet, was to pass to bed with these words, And grant quiet rest. Before midnight the place was beset about, that none could escape to make advertisement. The Earl Bothwell came and called for the Laird, and declared the purpose, and said, That it was but in vain to make him to hold his house, for the Governor and the Cardinal with all their power were coming (and indeed the Cardinal was at Elphinston, not a mile distant from Ormeston ) But if he would deliver the man to him, he would promise upon his Honor, That he should be safe, and that it should pass the power of the Cardinal to do him any harm or hurt. Allured with these words, and taking counsel with the said Master George, (who at the first word said, Open the gates, the blessed will of my God be done. ) They received in the Earl Bothwell himself, with some Gentlemen with him: To whom Master George said, I praise my God, that so honorable a man as you, my Lord, receiveth me this night, in the presence of these noble men: For now I am assured, That for your Honors sake, ye will suffer nothing any ways to be done to me, but by the order of Law. I am not ignorant that all their Law is nothing but corruption, and a cloak to shed the blood of the Saints. But yet I less fear to die openly, than secretly to be murdered. The said Earl Bothwell answered, I shall not only preserve your body from all violence that shall be purposed against you against order of Law, but also I promise here in the presence of these Gentlemen, That neither shall the Governor nor the Cardinal have their will of you, But I shall retain you in mine own hands, and in mine own house, till that either I shall make you free, or else restore you in the same place where I receive you. The Lairds aforesaid, said, My Lord, If ye will do as you have spoken, and as we think your Lordship will do, then do we here promise unto your Lordship, That not only we ourselves shall serve you all the days of our life, but also we shall procure the whole professors within Lothan to do the same. And upon either the preservation of this our brother, or upon his delivery again to our hands; we being reasonably advertised to receive him, That we, in the name and behalf of our friends, shall deliver to your Lordship, or any sufficient man that shall deliver to us again this servant of God, our Band of Manred in manner requisite. And thus promise made in the presence of God, and hands stricken upon both the parties for observation of the promise, the said Master George was delivered to the hands of the said Earl Bothwell ; who immediately departing with him, came to Elphinston, where the Cardinal was. Who knowing that Calder Younger, and Brunston, were with Johan Cocburne Laird of Ormeston, sent back with expedition to apprehend them also. The noise of Horse-men being heard, the servants gave advertisement, That more then departed, or was there before, were returned. And while that they dispute what should be the motive, the Cardinals Garrison had seized both the outer and inner Close. They called for the Laird, and for the Laird of Calder, who presenting themselves, demanded what their COMMISSION was. To bring you two, and the Laird of Brouneston to my Lord GOVERNOUR. They were nothing content (as they had no cause) and yet they made fair countenance, and entreated the Gentlemen to drink, and to bait their horses, till that they might put themselves in readiness to ride with them. In this mean time Brounston conveyed himself first secretly, and then by speed of foot to Ormiston wood, and from thence to Dundallon, and so escaped that danger; the other two were put into the Castle of Edinburgh, where the one, to wit, Calder Zounger, remained until his baud of Manred to the Cardinal, was the means of his deliverance: And the other, to wit, Ormiston, freed himself by leaping off the wall of the Castle, betwixt ten of the clock and eleven before noon: And so breaking Ward, he escaped prison, which he unjustly suffered. The servant of God M. George Wischarde, was carried first to Edinburgh, thereafter brought back, for fashion sake, to the house of Hailles again, which was the principal place that then the Earl Bothwell had in Lothiane. But as gold and women have corrupted all worldly and fleshly men from the beginning, so did they him: For the Cardinal gave gold, and that largely; and the Queen, with whom the said Earl was then in the Glunders, promised him favor in all his lawful suites to women: if he would deliver the said M. George, to be kept in the Castle of Edinburgh. He made some resistance at the first, by reason of his promise. But an effeminate man cannot long withstand the assaults of a gracious Queen, and so was the servant of God transported to Edinburgh, where the Cardinal then had a convention of Prelates, wherein somewhat was said of redressing the abuses of the Church, and reforming the lives of the Clergy, but it took no effect. M. Wischarde remained but few days in Edinburgh : For that bloody wolf the Cardinal, ever thirsting after the blood of the servant of God, so travelled with the abused Governor, that he was content that God's servant should be delivered to the power of that Tyrannie. And so small inversion being made, Pilate obeyed the petition of Caiaphas, and of his fellows, and adjudged Christ to be crucified. The Cardinal seeing it was forbidden by the Canon Law to Priests to sit as Judges upon life and death, although the crime were Heresy, sent to the Governor, desiring him to name some Lay-Judge to pronounce Sentence against M. Wischarde. The Governor had freely condescended to the Cardinals request, without delay, if David Hamilton of Preston, a godly and wise man, had not remonstrated unto him, That he could expect no better end then Saul, since he persecuted the Saints of God, for that Truth which he professed once with such a show of earnestness; the profession thereof, being the only cause of his advancement to that high degree wherein he was: The Governor moved at this Speech of David Hamiltons, answered the Cardinal; That he would not meddle with the blood of that good man; and told him, That his blood should be on him, for he himself would be free of it. At this the Cardinal was angry, and said he would proceed, and that he had sent to the Governor of mere civility, without any need. And so the servant of God, delivered to the hand of that proud and merciless Tyrannie, triumph was made by the Priests. The godly lamented, and accused the foolishness of the Governor: For by the retaining of the said M. George, he might have caused Protestants and Papists (rather proud Romanists) to have served; The one, to the end the life of their Preacher might have been saved; The other, for fear that he should have set him at liberty again, to the confusion of the Bishops. But where God is left (as he had plainly renounced him before) what can counsel or judgment avail? How the servant of God was dealt withal, and what he did from the day that he entered within the sea Tower of S. Andrew's, which was in the end of January, in the year of God 1546. unto the first of March the same year when he suffered, we cannot certainly tell, except we understand he wrote somewhat in prison, but that was suppressed by the enemies. The Cardinal delayed no time, but caused all Bishops, yea, all the Clergy that had any preeminence, to be called to S. Andrew's, against the seven and twentieth day of February, that consultation might be had in that question; which in his mind was no less resolved, then Christ's death was in the mind of Caiaphas. But that the rest should bear the like burden with him, he would that they should before the world subscribe whatsoever he did. In that day was wrought a wonder, not unlike that which was at the accusation and death of Jesus Christ, when Pilate and Herod, who before were enemies, were made friends, by consenting of them both to Christ's condemnation; differs nothing, except that Pilate and Herod were brethren under their father the Devil, in the estate called Temporal ; And these two of whom we are about to speak, were brethren (sons of the same father the Devil ) in the estate Ecclesiastical. If we interlace merrynesse with earnest matters, pardon us good Reader, for the fact is so notable that it deserveth long remembrance.

The Cardinal was known proud; and Dumbar Archbishop of Glasgow was known a glorious fool: And yet because sometimes he was called the Kings Master, he was Chancellor of Scotland. The Cardinal cometh even the same year, in the end of harvest before to Glasgow, upon what purpose we omit. But while they remain together, the one in the Town, the other in the Castle; Question riseth for bearing of their Crosses. The Cardinal alleged, That by reason of his Cardinalship, and that he was Legatus natus, and Primate within Scotland, in the kingdom of Antichrist ; That he should have the preeminence, and that his Cross should not only go before, but that also it should only be borne wheresoever he was. Good Gukstone Glakstone, the aforesaid Archbishop, lacked no reasons, as he thought, for maintenance of his glory. He was an Archbishop in his own Diocese, and in his own Cathedral Seat and Church, and therefore ought to give place to no man. The power of the Cardinal was but begged from Rome, and appertaineth but to his own person, and not to his Bishopric, for it might be, that his successor should not be Cardinal, but his dignity was annexed with his office, and did appertain to all that ever should be Bishops of Glasgow. Howsoever these doubts were resolved by the Doctors of Divinity of both the Prelates, yet the decision was as ye shall hear; Comming forth (or going in, all is one) at the Queere door of Glasgow Church, begins striving for state betwixt the Cross-bearers, so that from glouming they came to shouldring, and so from shouldring they go to buffets, and from dry blow-neffaling; and then for charities sake, they cry, Disperst • dedit pauperibus, and essay which of the Crosses was finest metal, which staff was strongest, and which Cross-bearer could best defend his Masters preeminence; and that there should be no superiority in that behalf, to the ground go both their Crosses. And then began no little fray, but yet a merry game, for rockets were rent, tippets were torn, crowns were knapped, and side gowns might have been seen wantonly to wag from the one wall to the other: Many of them lacked beards, and that was the more pity, and therefore could not buckle other by the brises, as bold men would have done. But fie on the Jackmen, that did not their duty: For had the one part of them recountred the other, then had all gone right; but the Sanctuary we suppose saved the lives of many. How merrily so ever this be written, it was bitter mirth to the Cardinal and his court. It was more then irregularity▪ yea, it might well have been judged laese majeste to the son of perdition, the Popes own person; and yet the other in his folly, as proud as a Peacock, would let the Cardinal know, that he was a Bishop, when the other but Beton, before he gat the Abbey of Aberbroth. This enmity was judged mortal, and without all hope of reconciliation. But the blood of the innocent servant of God, buried in oblivion all that bragging and boast. For the Archbishop of Glasgow was the first unto whom the Cardinal wrote, signifying unto him what was done, and earnestly craving of him, that he would assist with his presence and counsel, how that such an enemy to their estate might be suppressed. And thereto was not the other slow, but kept time appointed, sat next to the Cardinal, waited and subscribed first in rank, and lay over the East block-house with the said Cardinal, till the Martyr of God was consumed with fire: for this we may note, That all these beasts consented in heart to the slaughter of that Innocent. So did they approve it with their presence, having the whole ordnance of the Castle of S. Andrew's, bent towards the place of execution, which was near to the Castle, ready to have shot, if any would have made defense or rescue to God's servant. The manner of his Accusation, Processe, and Answers followeth, as we have received from certain Records, which we relate truly, as near as possibly we can.

Upon the last of February was sent to the prison where the servant of God lay, the Dean of the Town, by the commandment of the Cardinal and his wicked counsel, and there summoned the said Master George, that he should on the morrow following appear before the Judge, then and there to give account of his seditious and Heretical Doctrine. To whom the said Master George answered; What needeth (said he) the Cardinal to summon me to answer for my Doctrine openly before him, under whose power and Dominion I am thus straightly bound in irons? May not he compel me to answer, of his extort power? Or believeth he that I am unprovided to render account of my Doctrine? To manifest yourselves what men ye are, it is well done that ye keep your old Ceremonies and Constitutions made by men. Upon the next morrow the Lord Cardinal caused his servants to address themselves in their most warlike array, with Jack, Knapscall, Splent, Spear, & Axe, more seemly for the war then for the Preaching of the true word of God. And when these armed Champions, marching in warlike order, had conveyed the Bishops into the Abbey-church, incontinently they sent for M. George, who was conveyed unto the said Church by the Captain of the Castle, and the number of an hundred men, addressed in manner aforesaid, like a Lamb led they him to the sacrifice. As he entered in at the Abbey-Church door, there was a poor man lying vexed with great infirmities, asking of his alms, to whom he flung his purse, and when he came before the Cardinal, by and by the Sub-prior of the Abbey, called Dean John Winrame, stood up in the Pulpit, and made a Sermon to all the congregation there then assembled, taking his matter out of Matth. 13. Whose Sermon was divided into four parts. The first was, A short and brief declaration of the Evangelist. The second, of the interpretation of the good seed: And because he called the Word of God the good seed, and Heresy the evil seed; he declared what Heresy was, and how it should be known. He defined it on this manner; Heresy is a false Opinion, defended with Pertinacie, clearly repugning the Word of God. The third part of his Sermon was, The cause of Heresy within that realm, and all other realms. The cause of Heresy (said he) is the ignorance of them which have the cures of men's souls: to whom it necessarily belongeth to have the true understanding of the Word of God, that they may be able to win again the false Teachers of Heresies, with the sword of the Spirit, which is, the word of God: and not only to win again, but also to overcome, as faith Paul to Timothy, A bishop must be faultless, as becometh the minister of God, not stubborn, nor angry, no drunkard, no fighter, not given to filthy lucre, but harberous, one that loved goodness, sober-minded, righteous, holy, temperate, and such as cleaveth unto the true Word of Doctrine. That he may be able with wholesome learning, and to impugn that which they say against him. The fourth part of his Sermon was, how Heresies should be known; Heresies (quoth he) be known on this manner; As the God-smith knoweth the fine gold from the unperfit, by the touch-stone; So likewise may we know Heresy by the undoubted Touch-stone, that is, The true, sincere, and undefiled Word of God. At the last he added, That Heretics should be put down in this present life. To which Proposition, the Gospel he treated of appeareth not to repugn, Let them both grow to the harvest. The harvest is the end of the world, nevertheless he affirmed, That they should be put down by the civil Magistrate, and Law. And when he ended his Sermon, incontinent they caused M. George to ascend into the Pulpit, there to hear his Accusation and Articles, for right against him stood one of the fat flock, a monster, John Lawder, a Priest, laden full of cursings, written in paper of the which he took out a roll, both long, and also full of outrages, threatenings, maledictions, and words of devilish spite and malice, saying to the innocent M. George, so many cruel and abominable words, and hit him so spitefully with the Popes thunder, that the ignorant people dreaded lest the earth then would have swallowed him up quick. Notwithstanding he stood still with great patience, hearing their sayings, not once moving or changing his countenance. When that this fat sow had read throughout all his lying menaces, his face running down with sweat, and froathing at the mouth like a boar: He spate at M. Georges face, saying, What answers thou to these sayings? Thou runagate, traitor, thief, which we have duly proved by sufficient witness against thee. Master George hearing this, sat down upon his knees in the Pulpit, making his prayer to God. When he had ended his Prayer, sweetly and Christianly, he answered unto them all in this manner:

Suddenly then, with a loud voice cried the accuser, the fat sow, Thou Heretic, Runnagate, Traitor, and Thief, It was not lawful for thee to preach; thou hast taken the power at thine own hand, without any authority of the Church. We forthinke that thou hast been a Preacher so long. Then said the whole Congregation of the Prelates, with their complices, these words; If we give him license to Preach, he is so crafty, and in holy Scriptures so exercised, that he will persuade the people to his opinion, and raise them against us. M. George seeing their malicious and wicked intent, appealed to an indifferent and equal Judge. To whom the accuser, John Lawder aforesaid, with hoggish voice answered, Is not my Lord Cardinal the second person within this Realm, Chancellor of Scotland, Archbishop of Saint Andrew's, Bishop of Merepose, Commendator of Arbroth, Legatus natus, Legatus a Latere. And so reciting as many Titles of his unworthy Honors as would have laden a Ship, much sooner an Ass: Is not he ( quoth John Lawder) an equal JUDGE apparently to thee. Whom other desirest thou to be thy JUDGE? To whom this humble man answered, saying, I refuse not my Lord Cardinal, but I desire the Word of God to be my Judge, the Temporal estate with some of your Lordships mine auditors, because I am here my Lord Governors prisoner. Whereupon the pridefull and scornful people that stood by, mocked him saying, Such man, such Judge, speaking seditious and reproachful words against the Governor, and other of the Nobles, meaning them also to be heretics. And incontinent, without all delay, they would have given sentence upon M. George, and that without further Processe, had not certain men there counseled my Lord Cardinal to read again the Articles, and to hear his answers thereupon, that the people might not complain of his wrongful condemnation. And shortly for to declare. These were the Articles following, with his Answers, as far they would give him leave to speak. For when he intended to mitigate their leasings, and show the manner of his Doctrine, by and by they stopped his mouth with another Article.

WHen that the Bishops with their complices, had accused this innocent man, in manner and form aforesaid, incontinently they condemned him to be burnt as an Heretic, not having respect to his godly answers, and true reasons which he alleged, nor yet to their own consciences; Thinking verily that they should do to God good sacrifice, conformable to the sayings of Jesus Christ, in the Gospel of Saint John the 16. Chapter; They shall excommunicate you, yea, and the time shall come, that he which killeth you, shall think that he hath done to God good service.

Then by and by they caused the common people to remove, whose desire was always to hear that Innocent man speak. Then the sons of darkness pronounced their sentence definitive, not having respect to the Judgment of God. When all this was done and said, the Cardinal causeth his tormentors to pass again with the meek Lamb unto the Castle, until such time as the fire was made ready. When he was come into the Castle, then there came two fiends, two gray-Friers, Frier Scot and his mate, saying, Sir, you must make your confession unto us. He answered, I will make no confession: Go fetch me yonder man that preached unto us this day, and I will confer with him. Then they sent for the Sub-prior of the Abbey, who came to him with all diligence. And conferred with him a pretty while, at last burst forth in tears, but so soon as he was able to speak, he asked him, If he would receive the Communion; Master