The abridgement or summarie of the Scots chronicles with a short description of their originall, from the comming of Gathelus their first progenitor out of Græcia into Egypt. And their comming into Portingall and Spaine, and of their kings and gouernours in Spaine, Ireland and Albion, now called Scotland, (howbeit the whole number are not extant) with a true chronologie of all their kings. Their reignes, deaths and burials, from Fergusius the first king of Scotland, vntill his Royall Maiestie, now happily raigning ouer all Great Brittaine and Ireland, and all the isles to them appertaining. With a true description and diuision of the whole realme of Scotland, and of the principall cities, townes, abbies, fortes, castles, towers and riuers, and of the commodities in euery part thereof, and of the isles in generall, with a memoriall of the most rare and wonderfull things in Scotland. By Iohn Monipennie.

A TRVE DESCRIPTI∣ON AND DIVISION OF THE WHOLE REALME OF SCOTLAND, of the situation, distance, and commoditie in euery part thereof, and of the principall Ci∣ties, Townes, Abbeyes, Palaces, Forts, Castles, Towres, and Riuers.

SCOTLAND is diuided from England by certaine Marches, from the East Sea, called the Scottish Sea, to the West Seas, called the Ireland Sea, from the mouth of Tweed, vp the same riuer, till it come be∣twixt Werke and Hadden, where the March leaues the riuer, and passing South-west by dearne wayes, knowne onely to the inhabitants of that countrey, till it come to Redden-Burne, or Water; and so vp the said Burne, while it come to the height of the Fellis of Cheuiot, and so west by the toppes of the Fellis, 'till a March ditch (called the Meir ditch) and so endlong in the Meir ditch, till it fall in the riuer of Carshope, and downe Carshope while it fall in Liddail, and downe Liddail while Eske and Liddail meete, and taking Aiffe at the north side of Eske, goeth endlong a ditch, while it come to the riuer of Sarke, and so downe Sarke while it fall in Sulwait, where the waters of Annan, and Nith, running se∣uerally in Sulway, all in one channell in the Irish Sea: ma∣keth

plentie of fishes: also by •…•…owing and ebbing of furi∣ous tides, made through many lands ends, and partly by inundation of the said waters, there is very dangerous quicke sands, called Sulway sands, that no man may passe safely ouer them without perill (except they haue one accustomed guide) because of sinking holes that are fre∣quent in them, being euery tyde ouerflowed with the Sea. The trauellers take their iourney through them at a low or ebbe water: if any man or horse fall in, his fellow trauellers casting their clokes or other clothes about that part where he sinkes in, and so running often about, the sand swels vp in a height, and so vomits out that which is fallen in the sinking hole. Vpon the banckes of Sulway in Iune and Iuly, the countrey people gather vp the sand within the flood-marke, bringing it to land, and laying it in great heapes. There after taking the salt spring water, and casting it vpon the sand (with a certaine deuice) cau∣sing the water to runne through the sand to a hollow pit, purposely made to receiue the water: which water being boiled in a little vessell of lead, there is made thereof good white salt, and sometimes gray salt, after the temperance of the weather. This part is called the salt •…•…oats.

The reason of the variation of the foresaid Marches was, vpon diuers debates and controuersies, arising be∣twixt the borderers of both the Realmes; which being referred to the arbitr•…•…ment of sundry Commissioners, of both the Nations, were set down according to the power of the parties. Thus the Marches being set forth particu∣larly, beginning at the Mers, wherein at the mouth of Tweede stands the auncient and martiall towne of Bar∣wicke, and strong Castle, well walled and strengthned: the chiefe town of the Mers, the Scottish Sea on the East. Next is the towne of Haymouth, with the Castles of Ay∣towne, Hutonhall, Mander•…•…own, Cockburne, Easter and Wester Nisbets, with Wedderlie, the towne and Abbey of Coldingham by the Sea. South-west from Barwicke

lies the towne of Duns, the towne of Langton with the Castle, the Abbeyes of Coldstreame and Ecklis demolish∣ed, the Castles of Craighame, the Earle of Homes princi∣pall Residence, and Wedderburne, the very strong Castle of Fastcastle. The riuers in the Mers are Ei, Whittitur, Blakitur, and Ednem water. This countrey is plenteous and abundant in all things necessary for the vse of man.

West from the Mers lies Tewiotdail, Liddisdail, Ewis∣dail, Eskdail, Wauchopdail, and Annandail, taking their names from T•…•…ot, Liddil, Ews, Eske, Wauchope, and An∣nan, running seueraily through the said Dailes. In Tewi∣otdail lies the auncient strong Castle of Roxbourgh de∣molished. The Castle of Cesfurd, the Lord of Roxbourgh speciall Residence: the Castles of Little-deane, and Ma∣kerstowne, the auncient towne and Abbey of Kelso, with the Castle of Flures, the towne and Abbey of Iedbourgh, the Castles of Bown-iedburgh, Hunthill, Hu•…•…delie, Crai∣ling, and Edyarstowne, with many other stone strong houses, tedious to describe, the Towne and Abbey of Melrose, the Towne and Abbey of Driburgh, the Towne of Hawicke, the Castles of Kaiwers and Branxholme, the Lord of Balcleuchs special Residence. The Riuers in Tew∣iotdail are Tiot, Tweed, Kail, Auchnom, Ied, Rewl, Sli∣tricke, Borthuike and Eall.

In Liddisdail is the auncient Castle of Harmetage: The Castles of Prickinhauch, Mangerstowne and Whit∣tow In Eskdail is the Castle of Langhome.

In Annundaile is the Castle of Lochmabane, inui∣roned with a number of Loches, replenished with diuers goodly fishes. The Lord Maxwels speciall residence. The townes of Annandaile are, the towne of Annan∣wich, a strong demolished Castle, the towne of Lochma∣bane, the towne of Moffat, the Castles of Bonschaw, Newby Bred-kirk, Hoddon, Howmanis, and Hoddam∣stans, next standeth the watch tower of Repentance. The Castles of Loch-house, Loch-wood, Speldings, Ros,

and Kirk-Michael. The riuers in Annandaile are Annan, Sark, Kirtill milk, Ey, Kinnill, Ewan, and Moffat, a fertile countrie, and good for pastoring: West from Annandaile lies Niddisdaile, taking the name from the water of Nith, where stands the towne and Castle of Dumfreis with a pleasant bridge of large fine stones, the towne and castle of Sanquhar. The Lord Sanquhars speciall residence the town of Disdeare, the Colledge of Lincluden, the Ab∣bey of Haliwode. In Niddisdaile are diuers ancient hou∣ses, and Castles demolished: And yet standing, the strong Castle of Carlauerock, the ancient Castle of Drumlainrig, and Disdeir, the ancient Castle of Mortoun demolished, the Castles of Closburn, the Castle of Torthorrall, the Lord of Torthorrails, principall residence, the Castles of Muswell and Glencarne. North from Niddisdaile a little inclining to the East lies Cliddisdaile.

Cliddisdaile taking the name from the riuer Clyde beginning at Crawfurd moore, wherein lies Crawfert-Iohn, Dowglasdale, Ewendaile; Carne-wath moore, Bod∣well moore, the townes of Cliddisdaile are Lanarke, Ha∣milton towne and Palice. The Marquesse of Hamiltons speciall residence with the Castle demolished, Boithwell with the Colledge. The Citie and Castle of Glasgow, the Archbishop seate, verie populous with a sumptuous Ca∣thedrall Church containing a lower and ouer Church, co∣uered with lead, also a flourishing Vniuersitie in liberall sciences and Theology: adiacient to this Citie is a large stone bridge ouer the riuer Clide, wherein falles diuers o∣ther the riuers as Ewen, Dowglasse•…•…, Lismehago, there is an Abbey of the same name, the water of Ewan, the wa∣ter of Cadder, the two Maidens, and Cutter water. In Cliddisdaile is the Castle of Crawfurde, the ancient Castle of Dowglasse, the Earle of Anguish principall residence. The Castles of Crawfurd-Iohn, Lamington, Couthley, the strong Castle of Draffan. This countrey is plentifull of all necessaries. In the ouer ward of Cliddisdaile, there is

a hill or mount where ou•…•… springs three riuers, Tweed run∣ning in the Scottish Sea, Ann•…•…n in the Irish Sea, and Clide in the great Ocean, South-East from Cliddisdaile lyeth, Tweddaile, named so from Tweed, the speciall towne is Peblis with a religious house called the Crose Church, and the Castle of Drochellis, with the strong Castle of Neid•…•…eth, the Lord Z•…•…steris residence. The Castles of Traquhair, Grisum, Ormstoun, Horsburge, Dawicke, Dremmelger, Smithfield, Cringeltie, and Dearn-hall. The waters of Tweddaile are Tweede, Quair, Mamier, Hig∣ger, Tarffe, Lyne Peblis water, and Lithnops. This coun∣trey is good for pasturing.

East from Tweddaile lieth Heriot moore, Galla water, and Lauderdaile, with the towne and Castle of Lauder, taking the name from the water of Lidder, there being pendicles of other Shieres, I omit particularly to de∣scribe them, South from Tweddaile lieth forrest Shyre, •…•…he speciall towne is Sel-kirk, three miles distant therefrom is the old Castle of Neuwark. There is two goodly Riuers, Zara, and Ethrik, both falling in Tweede, Zara cometh out of a great Loth called the Loth of the Lowis, wherein is abundāce of fishes, this country is also good for pasturing.

Lothian, taking the name from Loth King of the Pi•…•…s is deuided from the Mers, by one part called the Easter peece, & by Lammer-mure on the South from Tweddaile on the Southwest. In East Lothian are the Castles of Dun∣glasse, Innerwick, Broxmouth, and Spot, Stanypeth, Waig∣toun, Whittingham, Nunraw, Harmostoun, Saltoun, Kieto, Winttoun; Ormestoun, the townes in Lothian are Dum∣barre, with a stong Castle demolished the townes of Tu∣ningham, and North Barwicke with an Abbey, Dirltoun and Castle, Fentoun towne and Castle, Seitoun towne and Pallace. The Earle of Winton speciall residence, the strong hold and Castle of Tamtalloun, the towne of A∣ber-Lady. Haddingtun towne and Abbey, the Castle of Lethingtoun, the Lord Thirlstans speciall residence, the

the castle of Creichtoun, Sowtray Abbey, the towne of Prestoun with the castle, the towne of Prestoun pannes, the townes of Tranent, Mussilburgh, and Enneresk. The towne of Dalkenh with the castle, the Earle of Mortons speciall residence, the towne of New-botlie, with the Ab∣bey: The Earle Lothians residence, the towne of Letth a commodious hauen for ships, and the Sea port of Edin∣burgh right well shipped.

Edinburgh, the speciall and headburgh in Scotland, chiefe Iustice seate of the Realme, strongelie builded with stone. The most part of the houses are fiue, sixe, or seuen stories high, wherein is a goodly Vniuersity, florishing in all sciences, for instruction of the youth; fortified on the West, with a most strong Castle builded vpon a high rock, kept by the Kings Captains, which Castle commands the said burgh, called of old the Maiden Castle, founded by Cruthneus Camelon, the first King of Picts. Before the birth of our Sauiour 330 yeares: Circuite vpon the East, South and West with a stone wall, and vpon the North strength∣ned with a Loch. It is also decored with the kings Pallace, and Abbey of Holy Rood-house vpon the East part: within seuen miles to this burgh, vpon the East, South and West parts, and within two miles vpon the North part, there is of Noble and Gentlemens Pallaces, Castles and strong builded Towres and stone houses (not as yet nominated) aboue an hundreth. Also the towne of Cra∣mond, lying vpon Almond. The riuers in Lothiane, are Tene, Aske, the riuer of Leith, the water of Almond, Lothiane is very plenteous & right abundant in all things necessary for the vse and sustentation of man.

Next East Lothian lies in West Lothian, the Shirifdome of Linlithgow, with the towne of Linlithgow, and the most pleasant Kings Pallace, with a very commodious Parke and Loch vnder the Pallace wall. Not farre distant is the strong Fortresse and Castle of Blacknesse, inuiro∣ned with the Sea. The ancient demolished Castle of A∣bercorne,

the towne of the Queenes ferry. The Castles of Dundas, Barnbugall, Cragiehall, Didestowne, Newli∣stowne, the towne of Kirklistown, the Castles of Neddrie, Cadder, Torphican, Kinneil, the towne of Bareston Nes.

Auenne water, whereon there is a stone bridge, de∣uides Sterling shire from west Lothean at the South: the Firth or Forth at the East; which Firth piece and prede be∣commes narrow, till it grow to the quantity of a reaso∣nable Riuer, neerer vnto Striueling bridge. There is but one water worthy to make account of, that runnes tho∣row it, named Carron. There are two little earthen knols, builded as may appeare, by men, (being auncient monu∣ments) called Duini pacis, that is, the knols of peace. Two miles downward vpon the same water, there is a round building without lime, made of hard stone, in such sort that one part of the vppermost stones i•…•…denied with the stone that lies directly vnder it; so that the whole worke, by this coniunction mutuall, and burthen of the stones, vphold it selfe; growing narrow by little and lit∣tle from the ground to the head, where it is open like a Doue-coat. The common people call it Anthurs Ouen. Vpon Carson was situate the famous Citie of Camelon, chiefe citie of the Pictes, founded by Cruthneus Camelon, afore the birth of Christ three hundred and thirty yeares, destroyed and abolished by King Kenneth the great, a∣bout the yeare of Christ 846. In this country is the Abbey of Manwell; the Castles of Haning, Powerile, and Cum∣mernald, the Earle of Wigtowns Residence, with the woode, the •…•…ore wood, and tore wood side, the towne of Falkirk, the Castles of Kers, and Calender, the Earle of Linlithgow Residence. The Castles of Donipace, Harbert∣shire, west Quarter, Arth, Poffowles, Carnoke, Bruse Ca∣stle, the Palace of Elphigstowne, the Lord Elphingstones residence, the Castles and Towers of Easter and Wester Polmais, and Chattrishall. the auncient towne, with the most strong fortiesse and Castle, and sumptuous Palace of

Striueling, builded vpon a high rock, with a pleasant and commodious Parke vnder the Castle wall. In this shire is the Castles and Towres of Towch, Gargunnok, Broich, Lekke, Dundaffe, Kilsyith, Manners, and Powes. Beyond the bridge of Striueling lies the Abbey of Cambus, Kin∣neth, with the Castle, the Towne and Castle of Alloway, the Towne and Castle of Clackmannan, the Castles of Tulliallan & Sawchy, Blair, Valeyfeild, Kinnedder, Aikin∣hed, Menstre, the town and Abbey of Culrosh, with the new builded Palace. Next adiacent to Striueling shire lies Lennox, diuided from the Barony of Renfrew, by Clyde: from Glasgow, by the water of Heluin, at the foote of the hilles of Grangebean, Loch-lomond runnes downe a low valley foure and twenty miles of length, and eight of breadth, hauing more then twenty foure Islands within the same.

This Lo•…•… besides abundance of other fishes, hath a kinde of fish of the owne, named Pollac, very pleasant to eate: the water of Leuin runneth out of Loch-lomond Southward, which water hath giuen the name to the country, running so strong, that no man (without danger) may passe the same. Lenin entreth into Clyde, neere to the most strong and inuincible fortresse and Castle of Dumbarton, standing vpon very high Rockes, with abun∣dance of fresh water springs, one spring being in Summer wholsome cold, and in winter sweete, warme: no rocke nor hill, being within more as a mile to the foresaid strength and Castle. Next adiacent is the towne of Dun∣barton, pleasantly situate vpon the Riuer of Leuin, the principall towne in the Duchie of Lennox; within the which there is many strong Castles, Towers and stone houses, as the Castles and Towers of Kirkmichael, Rosdo, Tarbat, Arnecaple, Kilmahow, Ardeth, Kilmarannoch, Buquhannane, Drummakeil, Cragiuarne, Ballindalloch, Kilcroch, Balglas, Fentrie, Duntreith, Craigbarnut, Clorct Woodhed, Cochnoch, Balquhannaran, Drumry, Dunglas

with sundry others tedious to declare.

The Duke of Lennox is superior to the most part of the Gentlemen inhabitants in this countrey, and many in the Barony. Next lies the Barony of Renfrew, taking the name from the towne of Renfrew, wherein the Session of Iu∣stice is kept to the Countrey. It is diuided in the midst by two waters, both called Carth. The towne of Paislay plea∣santly situate vpon the riuer Carth, with the Abbey there∣of, the Earle of Abircornes speciall Residence, with most pleasant Orchards and Gardens. In this countrey lies the Castle of Sempil, the Lord Sempils special Residence, with the Castles and Towers of Crukstone, Marns, Cath∣cart, Hag, vpper Pollok and nether Polloke, Hakket, the Lord Ros residence. Cardonald the Lord of Blantyrs re∣sidence, Blackhall, Caldwel, Stanelie, Ellerslie, Ihonstown, Waterstowne, Ramfuley, Dochail, Raalstowne, Biltries, Craganis, Housloun, Barrrochane, Dargewell, Blackstoun, Selwiland, Walkinshaw, Inchchennā, Arskin, Bishoptoun Boghall, Funlastown, New werke, Grinoke, Ardgowan, Glengarnoch, Kilburne, & Lady-land, with many others, strong stone houses tedious to rehearse. These countries aforesaid are plenteous in cornes bestiall and fishings. Next lies Cuningham, deuided from Kyle, by the water of Vrwine: at the foote thereof is situate the towne of Vr∣wine, a goodly Marchant towne, with a strong stone bridge. The towne of Kilmarnocke, the towne and castle of Kilmaris, the Earle of Glencarnes residence, the town & castle of Newmils, the towne of Salt Coats, where great store of white Salt is made, the towne of Largs, the town and Abbey of Kilwinning, the Castle of Deane the Lord Boyds residēce, the Castle & Palace of Lowdon the Lord Lowdons speciall residence, the castles of Eglintowne, Ki∣relaw, Ardrossin, the Earle of Eglingtowns residence, Cu∣ningham-head, Blair, Robertland, Gyffin, Eastwood, Cal∣wel, Rowallen, Law, Fairly, Kelburne, Arneil, Knock, Skel∣murly. In the towne of Vrwine the Iudge Ordinary holdes

iustice. Kyle and Cuningham were called of olde Silu•…•…a. Their countries are fertile in cornes and bestiall. Next lies Kyle, diuided from Carricke, by the water downe, which descends out of Loch-downe, wherin there is a strong to∣wer builded vpon an Isle. This water runnes West in the Firth of Clyde, in the midst of Kyle runnes the water of Air, which diuides Kyle in Kings Kyle, and Kyle Stewart, a part of the Princes principalitie. At the mouth of the water, on the South side is situate the auncient Marchant towne of Air, taking the name from the water, the prin∣cipall Bourgh of the whole Shire, pleasantly builded in a plaine field, hard on the Sea, very populous, and well ship∣ped, with faire stone houses, most couered with blew sklate, with a large stone bridge, passing to the new town of Air, with a castle and Palace. The towne and castle of Machling, the town and castle of Cumnoke, the towne of Preseike, the iustice seate of Kyle Stewart, the townes of Gastown and Ricardtown, the castles of Dundonald, Sun∣drum, the Lord of Cathearts residence. The Castles of Ochiltrie, with the towne, the Lord Ochiltres residence. The castles of Caprintown, Gaitgirth, Cragie, Entirkign, Gastown, Sesnocke, Carnal, Bar, Loc•…•…oreis, Terringean Cars, Drongane, Sorne, Dregornie, Sornbeg, Monton, Af∣flecke and Barskymmyn, the Loch of Martuane, with a strong tower. Loch fergus, with an Isle, with ma∣ny growing trees, where great plenty of Herons resort, with the Loch of Feal: there is a decayed Monastry in it. The Riuers in Kyle are Air, Luggar, Feal and Sesnocke, Luggar and Feal runnes in the water of Air, and so in the Firth of Clyde. The water of Sesnocke runnes in the wa∣ter of Vruing, and so in Clyde. This countrey abounds in strong & valiant men, where was borne the most renow∣ned and valiant Champion William Wallace, in the Baro∣ny called Ricardtown, then his fathers Style, thereafter of Craigy and Ricardtowne. Fiue miles from Air is a place called Coels field, where the King of Britons called Coell

was killed, by the Scots and Pictes, vpon the water of Dewne. This countrey is plenteous of bestiall, reasonably corned with abundance of Cornes.

Next Kyle lies Carrick, bordering with Galloway, vn∣der Lochrean, of old called Loch-calpin, declyning while it come to Clydis-firth: in Carricke are two goodly wa∣ters, plenteous of fishes, the water of Stinchar, at the foot thereof stands the towne of Ballintrea; where is great plentie of Herrings and other fishes, the castles of Arstin∣char, Craigneil, builded vpon a strong rocke with the ca∣stle of Knockdolean. Vpon the water of Girwane are the castles of Bargany, Blairquhan, Dalwharran, Cassils, Dun∣ure, the Earle of Cassilis residence. The castles of the Koe, Ardmillanx, Careltowne, Killoquhan, Baltessane, Keirs, Auchendrane, the abbey of Corsraguel. There was a goodly Merchant towne, of olde called Carrike, founded by Caratake King of Scots, whereof remaines nothing: the principall towne is now Mayeboll, where the Iudge ordinary holds iustice. Next adiacent with Carricke lies Galloway, of olde called Brigantia, bordering with Nid∣disdail, almost declyning to the South; the shire whereof inclosed, all the rest of that side of Scotland is more plen∣tifull store of bestiall Thane cornes. The waters of Gal∣loway are Vre, Dee, Terfe, Fleit, Kenne, Cree, and Losse; which runne all in the Ireland Sea. There is almost no great hils in Galloway, but it is full of craggie knols: the waters gathering together in the valleyes betwixt those knols, make almost innumerable Loches; from whence the first floud that comes before the autumnall Equino∣ctiall, causeth such abundance of waters to run, that there come forth of the said Loches incredible number of Eeles, and are taken by the countrimen in wand creeles, who salting them, obtaine no small gaine thereby. The farthest part of that side is the head, called Nouantum, vnder the which there is a hauen at the mouth of the water of Los∣sie named Rerigonins. In the other side of Galloway, o∣uer

against this hauen from Clyddis-forth, there enters a∣nother hauen named commonly Lochryen, or Vidogo∣ra: all that lieth betwixt those two hauens, the coun∣trey people call the Rynes, that is, the point of Gallo∣way: Also Nouantum, the M•…•…le, that is, the Becke, In Galloway are the townes of Kirkcubright well situ∣ate for a merchant towne a good Harbery, with a Castle Whithorne is the Bishops seat there. Wigtoun a good∣ly Market town, the towne of Innermessane, Minigooff, and Saint Iohns Clachane. The Abbey of new Abbey Glenluse, Sall-Syde, Dundrenan, and Tongland, the Castles of the Treaue, Barcloy, Hillis, Orchartoun, Bom∣by in Lochfergus, Cumpstoun, Cardenes, Wreythis, Ken∣mure, Kirkgunze. The great strength and Castle of Crow∣giltoun, builded on a rocke hard on the Sea, the Ca∣stles of Garleis, Large, the greate Castle of Clare, the Castles of Dunskaye, Corsell, Lochnee, the Lo∣ches of Galloway are Ruhinfranco, Carlingwork, Myre∣toun which neuer freezes, for any frost that chances.

The westmost of the hils of Grangebean make the bor∣der of Lennox, the hilles are cutted by a little bosome of the Sea named for the shortnesse thereof Gerloch at the entrie thereof standeth the Castle of Roseneth, beyond this Loch there is a greater Loch named from the water that runneth in it Lochlowng, this water is the March be∣tweene Lennox and Cowall, this Cowall, Argyle, and Knapdall altogether called Argyle are deuided in many parts by many narrow creekes that run out of the firth of Clyde into them. In Cowall is the Castle and towne of Dunnone, where is the Bishop of Argyle his seate, there is one most notable Loch called Loch fyne, which is in length threescore miles: vpon Lochfyne is situate the Ca∣stle Palace and towne of Inraray, the principall residence of the Earle of Argyle: Also doth the Sheriffe of Argyle keepe his Courts of Iustice, this Loch is most plentifull of Herings and all other fishes: On this Loch are situate di∣uers

Castles and Gentlemens places, as Castle Lauchlane, the Otter and Dunetrewne in Knapdall is Loghaw, and therein a little Ile where there is a strong Castle of the same name, there is also the Castle of Tarbat. In Argyle is the strong Castle of Carriek, builded vpon a rocke, within Loch goyle, there is also the Colledge of Kilmun, the water of Awe runneth out of Loch-how, and is the onely water of all that countrey that doe run in the Dewcalidon Sea. South and by VVest from Knapdall li∣eth Kantere: The head land of the countrey right ouer against Ireland, deuided by the sea, of the breath of sixteen miles onely. In Kantere is the Castles of Dunauerty, and Sadell, the towne and Castle of Kilkerraine, situate in the Loch of the same name Kantere is more long then broad, ioyning to Knapdal by so narrow a throat about one mile of breadth, which ground is sandy, and lieth so plaine and low that Marriners drawing along, their vessels as gallies and boats through it makes their iourney a great deale shorter then to passe about Kintire which is the common passage Lorne lies next, & Contaygne with Argyla on the backe thereof where standeth the most ancient Castle of Dunestaffage, in which were the Kinges of Scotland in old times crowned, where also the Marble fatall Chaire remained more then one thousand yeares. In Lorne are also the Castles of Carnacery, and that of Makdules built vpon a right rockie mountaine. The countrie of Argyle, Knapdall & Cowell do abound of bestiall, kye, sheepe and great store of venison, and abundant in fishes. Lorne mar∣cheth still with Argyle vntill it come to Haber, or rather Loch-haber: A plaine countrey not vnfruitfull. The coun∣trey where the hilles of Grangebean are, most easie to be trauelled, named broad Alben, that is to say, the highest part of Scotland. And the highest part •…•…of broad-Albin is called Drumalbin, that is the backe of Scotland so termed. For forth of the backe waters doe run in both the seas. Some to the North, and some South. Habre or rather

Lochaber marcheth with Badzenoch, which hath as it were a backe running out through the midst of it, which spouts forth waters in both the seas, Lochaber marching with Badzenoch, tending by little and little towards the Deucalidon sea, a country aboundant in cornes and great plenty of fishes, for besides the abundance of fresh wa∣ter fishes produced by a great number ot waters, the Sea runnes within the countrey, in a long channell, and being narrow at the mouth, the water kept in betwixt two high bankes, and spreading wide inward, makes the forme of a Stanke, or rather of a Loch, a place where ships may lie sure as in a hauen adiacent with Calkmananshire, lies Fyffe, beginning at the towne of Torre-burne, with the castles of Torre, Cromby, Pickfirran, Pictincreiff, the towne of Dumfermling and Abbey thereof, founded by King Dauid the first, the Kings of Scotland were buried there a long time, the Pallace therof now repaired by the Queenes Maiesties cōmand, & charges where the Earle of Dumfermling Chancellor of Scotland hath his residence. The towne of Lymkellis with the castle of Rossynh, the towne of the Queens ferry vpon the North. In the middle of Forth, vpon a rocke is the fortresse & decayed castle of Inchgaruy. By East lies in the same water Saint Colmis Inch, with a demolished Abbey, abundant with conies, and good pasturing for sheepe. Next in the mid Firth lies Inchkeith with a demolished Fortresse fertile of conies, and good for pasturing of sheepe. East from Inchkeith, within Forth lies a very high and big Rocke inuironed with the Sea; called the Basse, inuincible hauing vpon the top a fresh spring where the Solane geese repaires much, and are very profitable to the owner of the said strength. Next the Basse in the mouth of Forth lies the Ile of May a mile long, and three quarters of a mile in breadth, there was a religious house, with many fresh water springs, with a fresh Loch abundant with Eeles: This Ile is a goodly refuge for saylers in time of tempest. By East the

Ile of May twelue miles from all land in the German seas, lies a great hidden rocke called Inchcape, very dangerous for nauigators, because it is ouerflowed euery tide. It is reported in old times vpon the said rocke, there was a Bel fixed vpon a tree or timber, which rang continually, being moued by the Sea, giuing notice to the saylers of the dan∣ger. This Bell or Clocke was put there, and maintained by the Abbot of Aber-brothok, and being taken downe by a Sea Pirote, who a yeare thereafter perished vpon the same rocke with ship and goods in the righteous iudgement of God. Returning to the ancient towne of Innerkething, adioyning thereto is the most comfortable and safe refuge for saylers in time of storme, called Saint Margarets hope. The castles of Dunnybirsill, Dalgatie, and Fordell, the towne and castel of Aberdour, the Loch of Cowstoun, the castell of Orterstoun, the towne of Brunt-Iland, with the castle, the castels of Balmuto, Balwery, Hal-randes, and Raith. The towne and castell of Kingrne, the castles of Seyfield, and Abbots-hall: the towne of Kirkealdy, the castles of Bogy & Rauens-houch, the Lord Sinclairis speciall residence, towne of Dysart, the towne of VVe∣sterwemis and the castle, the castle of Easterwemis, the Lord Colweil chiefe residence, the townes of Buckhauen, and Lewynis mouth, so named from the riuer of Lewin out which comes of Loch-Lewin, the towne of Kenne∣way, the castles of Dury, Lundy and Largow, with the towne thereof, the castles of Rires, Bulchares, and Kin∣nochar, with the Loch thereof, the towne of Earles ferry, the castles of Kelly and Ardrosse, towne of Eliot. The towne and castles of Saint Monanes, Carnbie, and Bal∣kaskie, the towne and Abbey of Pictonweme, the Lord of Pictonwemes residence, the townes of Anstruther with the castle, the castles of Bofy, Pitterthy, the townes of Innergelly, and Siluer-dikes: the castles of Erdry, third part, West-Berns, the towne of Craile, with the Prouestry and demolished castle, the castles and towres of Balcomy,

Wormestoun, Randerstoun, Newhall, Camno, Kipper, Pitmille, Kinkell, Strawithy, Lamberletham, Lachochar. The Citie of Sanctandros, the Metropolitane and Arch∣bishops Seat, with a strong Castle and Abbey decored with three Vniuersities for learning in all sciences. In old time the Churches in this Citie most curionsly and sumptuously builded, and now decayed from this Citie West vpon the water of Eddin lies the Castles of Ny∣dy, Rumgary, Dairsey, Blebo. The towne of Cowper, the chiefe Iustice seate, the Castle of Corstoun, the Castle of Struther, the Lord Lendsayes principall residence, the Castles of Inglishtarwet, Craighall, Bruntoun, Balgony, the towne of Merkinsche, the towne of Falk∣land with the kings Palace, with a pleasant parke aboun∣dant, with Deares and other wilde beasts. The towne Stramiglo with the Castle, the Loch of Rossy, with the Tower thereof Hill-Carney and Nachtoun. The two promontories called the Loumonds, the towne of Leslie with the Castle, the Castles of Straith-Endrie, and Ar∣nat, the Loch of Inchgaw, with the Castle within, the Castles of Dowhill, Killerny, Ady, Cleisch, the Loch of Loch-lewin with a strong Castle, aboundant in all fresh fishes, with the New-house adiacent thereto, the Castle of Burley, the Lord Burleyes residence, the Castle of Balluaird, the towne of Newbrough, the Abbey of Lundors, the Lord of Lundors residence. The Castle of Bambreich, the Earle of Routhous speciall resi∣dence. The Abbey of Balmerinoch, The Castles of Collarny, Ferne, Perbroth, Mordocarny, Maquhany, Forret, Kynneir, the towne of Lucers, with the Castle, the Castles of Earleshall, Colluthy, the townes of East and West Ferreis, the riuers in Fyiff are Lewin, Eddin, Ore, Lochty, the two Quichis, the waters of Largo, Kendlie, and Stramiglo.

This countrey is abundant in cornes, fruits bestiall, and all sort of fishes, with abundance of coale and salt: and all

the aforesaid Sea townes, very populous and wel shipped. Straitherne taking name from Erne, which runneth out of Locherne. The principal country of Perth-shire is diuided on the South from part of Fiffe, Kinroshire & Clakmanan∣shire by the Ochel hilles, the tops of the hils seruing for march: for as the water springs doe fall towards the North, they belong to Straithern, and as they fall towards the South they appertaine to Kinroshire, Culroshire, and Clakmananshire, by ambitiō diuided: in old times all their three shires were vnder the iurisdiction of Perth. The Stewartrie of Mentieth, liand in Perth shire, wherein lies the Abbey of Inch-mahomo with the castles and towers of Cardrose, Archopple, Balinton, Quolze, Burnbanke, Row, Keir, Knockhill, Calendar, Leny, Cambusmore, Torre and Lainricke, lying vpon Teith water, giuing the name to Montieth. The strong Fort and castle of Downe. Nowtowne, Argatie and Kirk-bryd, the Earle of Mon∣teiths residence. Next lies in Perthshire, the citie of Dum∣blane, the Bishop of Dumblans residence, the castles and towers of Kippinrose, Cromlix, Buttergasse and castle Campbell. Returning to the towne of Abirnethy, some∣time the Metropolitane citie of the Pictes, liand in Strai∣thern, marching with Fiffe, where the Earle of Angusse hath there Sepulchres. By Mugdrum and Balgony run∣neth the riuer of Erne in Tay, which is the greatest riuer in Scotland. At the foote of the Ochellis lies the castles & towers of Craigpotte, & Knight-potte, Fordel, Ardrose Balmanno, Exmagirdle and Forgon, where the water of Meth flowed from the Ochellis, giuing name to the castle of Innermeth, the Lord of Innermeths residence. The ca∣stles and Towers of Condie, Keltie, Garuoke, Duncrub, Newtowne, Glenaigles, the towne of Doning and Auch∣tirardour, the castle of Kincardin, the Earle of Montroze speciall residence, the castles of nether Gaske and Tulli∣bardin, the Earle of Tullibardin speciall residence, the ca∣stles and towers of Aurchtermachonie, Orchell, Pannels,

Ardoch, Braikoch and Craigrossie. The castle of Drym∣men, the Earle of Perths residence: the castles and towers of Balloch, Petkellany, and Boreland.

Betwixt Erne and Tay lieth Easter and Wester Rindes: the castles and towers of Fingaske, Kinmonth, Elcho Ab∣bey and castle, Easter and Wester Montcreiffis, Malar, Pet∣thewles, Balhoussie: the ancient bourgh of Perth, pleasant∣ly situate vpon the riuer of Tay, betwixt two commodious greene fields or Inches, founded by King William, sirna∣med the Lion, after the abolishing of the castle of Bertha by inundation of waters, about the yeare of Christ 1210. the King giuing great and ample priuiledges to the said burgh, decored with a large and long stone bridge ouer Tay, of eleuen Arches, partly decayed, & now reedifying; hauing reasonable commodities for shipping, with good∣ly fishings, of olde decored with sundry Monasteries, and specially the Charterhouse now demolished. The strong castle of Dupplin, the Lord Oliphants speciall residence: the castles of Huntingtore (of olde called Ruthwen) the castles and towers of Methwen, Bachilton, Logyalmond, Cultmalindis, Tibbermure, Tibbermallow, Keillour, Gor∣thy, Trewn and Strowane, the town of Fowlis, the castles and towers of Cultoquhay. Abircarny, Inchbreky, Mony∣uard, Carriwechter, Fordee, Comrre, Williamstowne and Durndone, with the town of Creiffe, Octhirtyre and Mil∣nabe: the abbey of Incheffrey, the Lord of Incheffreyes residence, Innerpeffry, the Lord of Mathertyes speciall dwelling. Betwixt Almond and Tay lies the Stormond of Straitherne, wherein is the castles and towres of Stra∣thurd vpper Bāchels, Inchstrewy, Ochtirgewin, Arlywicht Tullibeltane, Innernytie, Inchstuthil, Murthlie, the aunci∣ent demolished castle of Kinclewin, where the water of Ila runneth in Tay. In their countries are the riuers of Farg, Meth, Erne, Vrdachy, Schiochy, and Lochtre, falling in Almond, where Lous werke made of stone, receiues a great channell of water, passing to Perth, whereon stands

many mils, and filling the ditches to Spey tower, the rest of Perth is compassed with a stone wal. The citie of Dunkeld the Bishops seat situate vpon Tay, with little Dunkeld, the water of Brane fals in Tay, giuing the name to Strait∣brane, wherein is the castle of Trocharry: adiacent to Dunkeld lies the castles and towers of Rotmell, Carny, Cluny, Loch and castle Gowrdy, Mekilhour, Lethandy, Glesclun, Drumlochy, Gormoke, Blair, Ardblair, Craig∣hall, Rettray and Forde.

In Straithardell, named from the water of Ardell, lies the castles and towers of Morkley, Assintulle, and Inner∣throsky: in Athole liand in Perthshire, is the great and strong castle of Blair, the Earle of Atholes speciall resi∣dence; the castles and towers of Strowane, Ballachan, Balladmyn, the olde demolished castle of Muling, the old demolished castle of Logyrait, where the water of Tyn∣mell, flowers in Tay, the Castles of Garntully, the strong fortresse of Garth vpon a great rock, the Castles of Weme, Balloch, Finlarge, Glanurquhar, Lawers, and Miggerny in Glenlyon where the water of Lyon runneth in Tay. The water of Tay commeth forth of Lochtay, in Broad-Albin, which Loch is foure and twentie miles of length. There is other countries (as Rannoch, Balquhidder) lying betwixt Athole, Argyle, Lorne and Lochaber vn∣knowne to the Author. Returning to Gowry, and the rest of Perthshire lying betwix Tay and Angusse, where lies the Castles and Towers of Stobhall, Campsey, Byrs, Petcur, Ruthwens, Banff, Camno, Balgillo, Moncur, Inch∣stur, the ancient and renowned Abbey of Scone, where the kings of Scotland were crowned, from the extermi∣nion of the Picts, vnto the time of King Robert Bruse, at which time the fatall Marble chaire was transported to Westminster by Edward the first (surnamed Longshanks) King of England. This Abbey was sumptuously builded, now wholy decayed: a part whereof is reedified, and pleasantly repaired by the Lord of Scone, being his spe∣ciall

residence: The Castles and towres of Poknyll, Pit∣sindy, Balthiok, Rait, Kilspindie, Fingask, Kynnarde, Me∣ginshe, Murey, Hill, Petfour, the towne and Pallace of Arroll, the Earle of Arrols residence, Leyis, Inchmartine, Monorgund, Huntley and Innergowry.

These countreyes (all in Perthshire) are right plen∣teous and abundant in all kind of cornes, bestiall, and all sort of fishes, and all other necessaries for the sustentation of man, and Athole abounds in all kind of wild beasts and fowles with wild horses.

Next adiacent to Gowry lies Angusse, beginning at the bridge of Innergowry, with the Castle of Fowles, the Lord Grayes residence, the Castles of Balfour, Lundy, and Dinnun. The towne of Kethens, the towne and Ab∣bey of Copar, the Castle of Newtyle, the towne and Castle of Glammis, the Lord Glammis speciall residence. The towne of Killy-mure, the Castles and Towers of Lowry, Brigtoun, Thorntoun, Innerrichtie, Kilkaudrum and Quich, Clouoy, with parks and woods, Innerquha∣ritie, and Quich, Glen-Ilay, Wain, Dysart, Rossie, the Castle of Fyn-heauin, the Earle of Crawfurds speciall re∣sidence. The Castles and Towers of Melgund, Flemyng∣toun, Woodwre, Bannabreich, old Bar, with the Parke Carrestoun and Balhall, the Citie and Castle of Brechin the Bishops residence. The Castles and Towers of Dun, Craig, Edzell, Balzordy, and Newtoun. The towne or brugh of Dunde, strongly builded with stone houses, right populous, and industrious with good shipping, and a commodious hauen: a pleasant Church with a right high stone steeple, the castles of Duddope and Autherhouse, the Earle of Buquhans special residence. The Castles & towers of Strickmartin, Clawers, Mayns, wester Ogyll, Ballumby, and Claypottes, the strong fortresse & Castle of Bruchty, vpon a rocke inuironed with the Sea. The townes of north Ferrey, and Monyfuth, the Castles and townes of Auchin∣leck, Easter and Wester Powreis, Glen, Drumkilbo, and

Teling, The towne of Forfarre with a demolished Castle, with a Loch and an Ile therein with a Tower, Cassie, Lo∣gymegle, Barnzstaird, Innerkelour, the demolished Ab∣bey of Resenneth, with a Loch, and the Loch of Resko∣bow, the Castles and Towers of Woodend, Balmeshan∣noch, Hakerstoun; Balmady, with a Loch Balgayis de∣molished, the Castles and Towers of Turings, Carsegow∣ny, Guthrie, Garne, Fernell, and Boshane: The Lord Ogilbies speciall residence, the townes of Barre, and Pan∣bryde; the Castles of Duniken, Pammure; and Kelly, the towne and ancient Abbey of Abirtrothok; with the Castle, the Castle of Lethame, and Ethy; where a Fal∣con engendes yearely vpon a high rocke past memorie of man. The Castles and Towers of Enblackmond, Calli∣stoun, Bisack, Ardbeky, and the red Castle, the Castles and Towers of Dunnenald, Vsum, Craig, Bonytoun and Kinnarde.

The ancient towne of Mont-Rosse, with a commodi∣ous harbery for shipping, and well shipped, this towne is all builded with stone, and populous, aboundant with all kinde of fishes: the towne and Castle of olde Mount-Rosse, and the Castle of Westerbracky. The riuers in An∣glusse are the water of Innergowery deuiding Gowry from Angusse: The riuers of Dichty, Carbat, Ila, Brothat Lunnen, North and South Askis. This countrey of An∣gusse is plentifull and abundant in all kinde of cornes great store of bestiall, with all sort of fishes withall other commodities necessary for man.

Next adiacent to Angus is the Mernis, where are the townes Kincardin, Fordoun, & Beruy, Cowey and Stane∣hyue, Galguein, with the Castles of Halgrein and Low∣ristoun, the most strong Castle of Dunotter, with many pleasant buildings within the same, situate vpon a Rocke, inuironed with the Ocean sea, and well furnished with Ordinance and all warlike prouision for defence, the Earle Martiall his residence, with the Castle Fatteresso,

there is also the Castles of Glenberuy, Puttarrow, Ar∣buthnet, Thornntoun, Balbegenat, Hakertoun, Morphie, Benholme, Allardes and Maters. This countrey is plen∣tious of Beere, and wheat, abounding in bestiall and fishes: The Barrons and Gentlemen deteste contention in law, remitting and submitting alwaies their actions debatable, to amicable arbitrements among them∣selues.

North from the Mernis is the mouth of the water of Dee, where is situate the ancient burgh and, merchant towne of Abirdene, wel builded & renowned for the Salmond∣fishing thereof, well shipped, it hath a florishing Vniuer∣uersitie for instruction of the youth, a pleasant bridge buil∣ded of stones, at the mouth of the riuer Done, is situate the old Citie of Aberdone, which is the Bishops seate, where also is a goodly Colledge for learning in sciences specially in Philosophy.

Betweene Dee and Done beginneth the countrey of Mar, growing alwaies wider and wider till it be three∣score miles length and comes to Badezenoch. In Mar is the towne of Kinkardin of Neil, the Castles of Drum, Leyes, Skein, Monimusk, Halforrest, the towne of Kyn∣tor, the Castles of Abirgeldy, Lenturke, Corsse, Aslun, Kyndrymme, Innerbuchat, Cluny, Corsinda, Muchall, Cragywar, Torry and Cowgarth, Klenkindy, Buchholly, and New. Lochaber, Badzenoch and Mar, comprehends the breadth of Scotland betweene the two Seas.

Next Mar vpon the North lies the Gareoch, wherein is the towne of Innerwry. The Castles of Balquhan, Fe∣thernere, Caskybane, Auchenhuiff, Meldrum, Pitcaple, Pittodrie, Harthill, not farre distant is the most high mountaine of Bannachy, the highest mountaine in the North for saylers, comming from the Easter seas, takes vp land first by this mountaine. The Castles of Lesly and Wardens, the ancient Castle of Dinnedure vpon a high mountaine called the Golden Mountaine, by reason of

the sheepe that pastures thereupon: Their teeth are so ex∣traordinary yealow, as if they were coloured with gold, there is also the Castle of Drumminor, the Lord Forbes residence. Next Gareoch vpon the North-East lies Buc∣quhan, wherein is situate the towne of Newburgh, v∣pon the water of Itham, aboundant in Salmond and o∣ther fishes, the townes of Peterhead and Frisselburgh, the Castles of Fophern, Asselmond, Arnage, Tochone, Kelly, Straloch, Vdney, & vpon the North-East side therof there is a rocke where are found sundry well coloured stones of diuers hewes, very pleasant, some quadrant pointed, and transparant, resembling much the orientall Diamond for they are proued to be better then eyther the Virginean or the Bohemian Diamond. The time of the comming of Hengistus in Britaine, there came with him one Noble Germane Prince called Woden, about the yeare of Christ 477. (as writeth Pomarius) who adioyning their forces with Vortiger, then King of the Britaine, against the Scots and Picts, continuing in their fury were called Vo∣denay, conforme to the old Saxon language (as writeth Olaus magnus, Beda and Vliterpius) of whom by long progression and abbreuiation of speech is descended the ancient name of Vdny. There are also the Castles of Pitmedden, Hadde, Gicht, Fywie, the ancient Castle of Slanes, watterton, Enderrugy, with the strong Castle of the Craig of Enderrugy, The Castles of Fillorth, Pitsligo, Feddreth, Towy, Balquhaly, Dalgatie, the tower of Torrey, and the Castle of Mures. This countrey stretches farthest in the Germane seas of all the countries of Scotland fertile in store, and cornes: And in it selfe sufficient in all other commodities necessary for the countrey, there is abundance of Salmon and other fishes taken in all the waters thereof, except the water of Rattry, whereunto this day there was neuer any Salmon seene. Next Buehquhan vpon the North lies Boyne, and Enze in Boyne. In Boyne is the towne of Bamst, and

Castle thereof, situate vpon the riuer of Diuern, there is also the Castles of Boyne, Findetar, and Bogygieht, with the towne of Culane, situate vpon the sea coast. Next lies the lands of Straithbogy, where is the Castle and Pallace of Straithbogy, the speciall residence of the Marquesse of Huntley, the Castles of Fendrough, Pitlurge, Carnbarrow, Rothemay, the Lord Saltouns chiefe residence, Kinnardi, Crombie, Achindore, Lesmore, Balwany, Blarsindy, Drym∣myn, Dusky, Ballindalloch, Balla Castle and Aikenway, these foresaid countries are plenteous in cornes, bestiall, and in fishings.

Next vpon the North is the water Spey, abundant in Salmond and all new fishes, Endlong Spey lies Murrey-Land, wherein is situate the Citie of Elgyn vpon the wa∣ter of Lossy, the Bishop of Murreyes seat and speciall resi∣dence, with a Church most curiously and sumptuously builded, which now in part decayes. In Murrey are ma∣ny strong Castles & other strong houses, as the Castles of Blairy, Monynesse, the ancient strong Castle of Vrquhart, the Castles of Spynay with a pleasant Loch abounding in fishes, the Castles of Innes and Duffus, the Castle and towne of Forres, the great Castle of Tornuaye, the prin∣cipall residence of the Earle of Murrey: The Castles of Cadall and Kilrauicke with diuers Gentlemens strong stone houses adiacent about the towne of olde Erne. In Murrey are two famous Abbeyes, Pluscardy, and Kinlus, the Castle of Louat the Lord Louats residence. There is also the most ancient towne of Innernes, and the strong Castles thereof situate on the water of Naes, which des∣cends from a Loch, named Loch Naes thirtie foure miles in length: this water of Naes is alwaies warme, and ne∣uer freezeth, in such sort as in winter time, yee falling in∣to it is dissolued by the heat therof: West from Lochnes, there lies eight miles of continent ground: And that small peece is the onely impediment that the Seas ioyne not, and make the remanent of Scotland an Iland: for

all the land that lies betwixt the strait and the Deucalidon Sea, is cutte by creekes and Loches of salt water run∣ning into the land.

From the mouth of Naesse, where it enters in the Ger∣mane Sea, North lies Rosse, shooting in the Sea in great Promontories or heads. The countrey of Rosse is of grea∣ter length nor breadth, extending from the Germane to the Deucalidon Sea, where it riseth in craggy and wilde hils, and yet in the plaine fields thereof, there is as great fertilitie of corne as in any other part of Scotland. There is in Rosse pleasant dales with waters, & Loches full of fishes, specially Lochbroome: It is broad at the Deucalidon sea, and growes narrow by little and little turning Southward from the other shore, the Germane Sea (winning the selfe an entrie betwixt high clintes) runs within the land in a wide bosome, and makes an healthfull port and sure refuge against all tempests and stormes: the entrie of it is easie, and within it is a very sure hauen, against all iniu∣ries of Sea, and a hauen for great nauies of ships. Loch∣broome is abundant of Salmond and all other fishes. The townes in Rosse are the City of the Channory, the Bishops seat with a strong Castle, the towne of Rosemarky, the Castles of Read-castle, Dingwall, the Abbey of Bewly, the castles of Cromarty, Miltoun, Fowlis, Ballingoun, the town of Tane, the Castles of Catboll, Torbat, Loselun, & Kayne with many others, the waters in Rosse are Cromar∣ty, the water Tane, the water of Naes: Also Mountains of Allabaster and hils of white marble, there is many other parts in Rosse too longsome, to describe. Next Rosse lies Sutterland, the speciall towne is D•…•…norch with a strong Castle: the Castls of Skibow, Pulrossy, Skelbo, Clyne, Dun∣robene, the Earle of Sutherlands residence, with goodly Orchards, where growes good Saphron: the riuers are Ferryhuns, Brora Helmsdeaill, abundant in Salmond and other fishes, and good store of bestial, there is also hilles of white Marble, with salt and coale. Next Sutherland lies

Stranauern, the castle of Far, where the lord of Makky hath his speciall residence: The Castles of Tunge, this countrey & Stratleigh, with sundry Ilands, as Ship-Iland, Hyp-Iland Marten-Iland, Conne-Iland are vnknown to the Author. Next lies Caithnes, where it marches with Stranauerne is the furthest North countrey of all Scotland: and those two draw the breadth of Scotland in a narrow front. In thē are three Promontories or heads: the highest wherof is in Stranauern, called Orcas, or Taruidum, the other two not so high are in Caithnes, Veruedrum now named Hoya: and B•…•…rebrum now called Dunsby, at the foot of this hill there is a pretie hauen for them that trauell from Orknay by Sea, there is mountains called Ordhead, Ho∣burnhead, Madēs Pape, the Castle of Berydale, with a riuer abundant in Salmond & other fishes. The Castle of Dum∣beth with a goodly riuer, with the towns of Wcik & Thir∣so, with Ichone a riuer. The Castle of Gerniggo, the Earle of Caithnes special residence. The Castles of Akergile, Keis Pressik, old Weik, Ormly, Skrabstar, Dunray, Brawl, and May, Dunnethead isa hil of Marble, the riuers are the riuer of Berridale, Dunberth, Weik, Thirso Fors. This countrey is abundant in cornes, bes•…•…all, Salmond, & all other fishes.

Of the Iles of Scotland in generall.

NOw refleth it to speake somewhat of the Iles, they are diuided (which as it were Crowne Scotland) in three classes or rankes, the West Iles, Orknay Iles, & Shet∣land Iles, the west Iles lye in the Deucalidon sea, from Ire∣land almost to Orkenay vpon the west side of Scotland, they are called Hebrides, and by some Aebudae: They are scattered into the Deucalidon sea, to the number of three hundreth and aboue: Of old the kings of Scotland kept these Iles in their possession, vntill the time of Donald brother to King Malcolme the third, who gaue them to the King of Norway, vpon condition that he should assist him, in vsurping of the Kingdome of Scotland, against law and reason. The Danes and Norway people kept pos∣session

of them for the space of 160. yeares: and then King Alexander the third, ouercomming the Danes and Nor∣way men in a great battell, thrust them out of the Iles: yet afterward they attempted to recouer their libertie, partly, trusting to their owne strength; and partly, mooued by se∣ditions in the maine land of this Countrey, creating Kings of themselues, as not long ago, Iohn (of the house of Clan∣donald) did vsurpe the name of King, as others had done before. In foode, raiment, and all things pertaining to their family, they vse the ancient frugalitie of the Scots.

Their bankets are hunting and fishing. They seeth their flesh in the tripe, or else in the skinne of the beast, filling the same full of water. Now and then in hunting, they straine out the bloud, and eate the flesh raw. Their drinke is the broth of sodden flesh. They loue very well the drinke made of whey, and kept certaine yeeres, drink∣ing the same at feasts: It is named by them, Blandium. The most p•…•…rt of them drinke water. Their custome is to •…•…ake their bread of Oates & Barly, (which are the onely kinds of graine that grow in those parts:) Experience (with time hath taught thē to mak it in such sort, that it is not vnplea sant to eat. They take a litle of it in the morning, & so pas∣sing to the hunting, or any other businesse, content them∣selues therewith, without any other kind of meat til euen.

They delight in marled clothes, specially, that haue long stripes of sundry colours: They loue chiefly purple & blew. Their predecessors vsed short mantles or plaids of diuers colours, sundry wayes deuided: and amongst some, the same custome is obserued to this day: but for the most part now, they are browne, most neere to the colour of the Hadder: to the effect, when they lie amongst the Had∣der, the bright colour of their plaids shall not bewray them: with the which, rather coloured, then clad, they suffer the most cruell tempests that blow in the open field, in such sort, that vnder a wrythe of Snow, they sleepe sound. In their houses also, they lie vpon the ground, lay∣ing betwixt them and it, Brakens, or Hadder, the rootes

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thereof downe, and the tops vp, so prett•…•…ily laid together that they are as soft as feather-beds, & much more whole∣some: for the tops themselues are dry of n•…•…ture, whereby it dries the weake humours, and restores againe the strength of the sinewes troubled before, and that so eu•…•…∣dently, that they, who at euening goe to rest sore and wea∣ry, rise in the morning whole and able. As none of these people care for feather-beds and bedding, so take they greatest pleasure in rudenesse and hardnesse. If for their owne commoditie, or vpon necessity, they trauell to any other Countrey, they reiect the feather-beds and bedding of their Host. They wrap themselues in their owne plaids, so taking their rest: carefull indeed, lest that barbarous de∣licacy of the maine Land (as they tearme it) corrupt their naturall and Countrey hardnesse.

Their armour wherewith they couer their bodies in time of warre, is an Iron Bonnet, and an Habbergion, side almost euen to their heeles. Their weapons against their enemies, are bowes and arrowes. The arrowes are for the most part hooked, with a barble on either side, which once entered within the body, cannot be drawne forth againe, vnlesse the wound bee made wider. Some of them fight with broad swords and axes. In place of a drum they vse a bag-pipe. They delight much in musicke, but chiefly in Harpes and Clairschoes of their owne fashion. The strings of the Clairschoes are made of brasse-wire, and the strings of the Harpes, of sinewes: which strings, they strike either with their nailes, growing long; or else with an Instru∣ment appointed for that vse. They take great pleasure to decke their Harpes and Clairschoes with siluer and pre∣cious stones: and poore ones, that cannot attaine heere∣vnto, decke them with Cristall. They sing verses pretti∣ly compounded, containing (for the most part) prayses of valiant men. There is not almost any other argument, whereof their rimes entreat. They speake the auncient language, altered a little.

FINIS.

Notes

• Tewiotdail.
• Liddisdail.
• Eskdail.
• Annandail.
• Edinburgh.
• West-Lothian.
• Linlithgow.
• The originall of the name of Wdny.
• Rosse.
• Sutherland.
• Stranauern.