The history of Scotland from the year 1423 until the year 1542 containing the lives and reigns of James the I, the II, the III, the IV, the V : with several memorials of state during the reigns of James VI and Charles I : illustrated with their effigies in copper plates. / by William Drummond of Hauthornden ; with a prefatory introduction taken out of the records of that nation by Mr. Hall of Grays-Inn.

THE HISTORY OF THE Reign of James the second, KING of SCOTLAND.

SCarce were the tears dryed for the loss of the Father, when the three Estates of the King∣dom meet, and at Holy-rood-House, set the Crown upon the head of the Son, then a Child in the sixth year of his age. The Govern∣ment of the Realm is trusted to Sir Alexander Le∣vingstoun of Calendar; the custody of the Kings person with the Castle of Edinburgh are given to the Chancellor Sir William Creightoun, Men for that they had been ever faithful to the Father, without apparent vices, of no capacity to succeed, nor enter∣taining aspiring thoughts for a Diadem, held wor∣thy of these charges and dignities. Good men may secure themselves from Crimes, but not from Envy and Calumnies; for men great in trust in publick affairs are ever assaulted by the ambition of those who apprehend they are less in Employment then they conceive they are in merit.

Archembald Earl of Dowglass grudging mighti∣ly that the State had bestowed those honours upon men far inferiour to him, as though by this the ma∣ny merits of his Ancestours had been forgotten, and

his own services neglected; They being ever accusto∣med in times of Peace to be nearest the Helm of the State, and when any danger of war blazed, sent abroad to encounter it. In a confusion of those thoughts being diversly tossed, he retireth to his own Castles, and after great resolves proclaimeth, that none of his Vassals or Tenants, especially within Annan∣dale and Dowglass-Dale (parts remote from the more Civil Towns of the Kingdom) should acknowledg th•• present Government, or obey any precepts, licen∣ces, or proclamations whereunto the Governours or Chancellours hands were set. If any question of Law or contention arose amongst his Friends, Vassals, Tenants, He knew none fitter to be their Judge, sentence all their wrongs, attone and take up their quarrels than himself. To discover to the world the weakness of the two Rulers, and how men never so well qualified, small in means, and silly of power, were not for great places, he giveth way for the in∣creasing of evil: overseeing many disorders, of which he was the secret cause, especially the insolen∣cies of vagabonding and ravaging Borderers. Men of purpose sent forth to spoil and rifle the more qui∣et parts of the Country, and to cut work to these strengthless States-men, as he named them. Thus as overcome with sloth and pleasure, he passed some moneths amidst Country contentments, expecting what effect time would bring forth of the equal au∣thority of those two Governours; for to fit minds equal in authority to so even a temper that they should not have some motions of dissenting, he thought impossible. Neither did his conjecture fail him, the event being the only judge of opinions: for after this the Governour began to jarr with the Chancellour for ingrossing wholly to himself from his Partner the person of the King, as an honour which

could not altogether be separate from his place, and which would give the greater authority to his pro∣ceedings; urging, the Chancellour in many other matters had usurped and taken upon him more than the Parliament granted. The Chancellour was no better affected towards the Governour; what the Governour commanded to be done, he one way or other over-turned. The buildings of the one was by the other demolish'd: by common and continual brawlings thus living in turmoil, neither of them was obeyed, the Country usurped, a licentious liberty, every man doing what he thought best for his par∣ticular advantage and gain. The remote Villages of the Kingdom are left a prey to the lawless multi∣tude: where their authority is scorned, turn places of Robbery; where admitted, places of faction.

The Queen all this time, after her ordinary custom remained in the Castle of Sterling. The divisions, partialities, jealousies of the Rulers, she taketh in an evil part, knowing usually they had a dangerous con∣sequence. She had ever found the Governour sin∣cere and loyal in his proceedings; against his counsel and will, her Son was kept from her by the Chancel∣lour whom the great ones hated for possessing the King, for drawing to Offices of best trust and bene∣fit his own creatures, displacing such he suspected to favour his partner in Rule; and the Commons lov∣ed him not, as managing every thing after his plea∣sure to their damage and loss. Transported by di∣vers motions she at last resolveth to change the Game of State, and by a womanish conceit befool Mas∣culine Policy. To effectuate her purpose she came to Edenburgh, and by many fair and passionate spee∣ches obtained of the Chancellour to enter the Castle and delight her self some days with the company of her Son. Then to countenance her Plot, she giveth

out a Pilgrimage intended by her to the white Kirk in Buchan: There will she make offerings for the health of the King, and perform her other vows. The honest States-man, who thought it disloyalty to distrust a Queen, and a Mother, whom years had made reverend; and impiety to hinder such religious intentions, giveth leave to her self with some Servants to remain in the Castle, and to transport her houshold stuff and other necessaries after what manner she pleased. In this time she persuadeth the King, wan∣tonly set and delighting to be obsequious to Her his Mother to be handsomly couched in a Trunk, as if he had been some fardel of her apparel, and conveyed by one of her trustiest Servants upon a Sumpter-horse to Leith: from whence he was put forward by water to Sterling, there received by the Governour, and welcomed with great joy and laughter, at the man∣ner of their so quaintly deceiving the grave man.

By this advantage the Reins of Rule were now ta∣ken by the Governour: The Queens trick is ap∣proved, his own proceedings are strengthned and confirmed. Proclamations are made against the Chancellour, and he charged to render the Castle of Edenburgh to the King: which he refused to do, by a great Power raised by the Governour of the Coun∣trey, and the Queens, and his own followers, he is besieged and blocked up within the Castle.

The Chancellour ready to fall in the danger, con∣sidering he had to do with too strong a party, implor∣eth the assistance of the Earl of Dowglass: but the Earl as a matter he had long expected and earnestly wished might fall forth, refuseth to assist any of them, saying, It belonged not to the ancient Nobility to suc∣cour these Mushrooms, whose ambition with no less could he satiate than the Government of the whole Realm. This disdainful answer, procured a meeting

of the two Rulers, which concluded in the rendring of the Castle to the Governour, and a promise of true friendship between them, that they might not prove a sport to the envious Nobility. The Go∣vernour to shew the roundness of his intentions and his honesty, continueth the Chancellour in his office; and restoreth him to the keeping of the Castle of Edenburgh. After this agreement the Earl of Dow∣glass left this world at Restalrigge the year One thou∣sand four hundred thirty nine, leaving behind him a Son born of the Earl of Crawfords daughter, na∣med William, who succeeded to his Fathers Honours and Ambition.

Malcolm Flamin of Cammarnald, and Allan Law∣der upon this young Earls oath of Allegiance to the Crown of France, obtain to him from the French King the Dutchy of Tourrain, which his Father had enjoyed, and given to Archibald his Grandfather slain at Vernueil. This forein dignity with his titles at home made the young man very haughty, and to forget moderation, Discretion in youth seldom at∣tending great fortunes. He surpassed far the King in his followers and train, being accustomed to have hundreds of Horse men attending him; most of which were Robbers and men living upon unlawful spoils all under his Protection: But however thus he seemed to set forth his greatness, this seemed much to bewray a distrust, and that he rather travelled amongst a people which hated him, than amongst his friends and men lovingly disposed.

James Stuart Son to the Lord of Lorne about this time marryed the Queen Dowager, not so much out of love of her Person as Dowry, as of Ambition, by her means intending to reach the Government of the State, and get into his custody the Person of the King. And that it might rather seem the work of

others out of conveniency, than any appetite of his own, he so insinuated himself with the Earl of Dow∣glass, that the Earl essayed to lay the first ground-work of his aims. The Governour who never wan∣ted his own Spies near the Queen, at the first inkling of this novation committed both him and his Bro∣ther William into the Castle of Sterlin. The Queen whether she followed her Husband, or was restrain∣ed, uncertain, staied with them, and now began to repent her of the former courtesies done to the Go∣vernour; wishing her Son had yet remained in the custody of the Chancellour, who, not so displeased at their imprisonment as he appeared in outward-show (delighting in the errours of his Partner) by Alexander Earl of Huntley trafficked and wrought their liberty. Thus insinuating himself in the Queens favour, he irritated her against the Governour: whom yet outwardly he entertained with ceremonies of Friendship, approving his Sagacity in preventing a storm in the State before it brake forth: here the Governour found how that same Key which can open a Treasure can shut it up: for after this the Queen prepared her Son for a change. The Go∣vernour carefully ministring Justice at Perth, the Chancellour one morning coming to the Park of Sterling where the King was hunting, by the pro∣vidence of his Mother more early raised for this sport, she bewailed the present estate of his Court, that he was thralled to the covetousness and pleasure of others, living under the power of a man greedy of Rule: that a King of France is declared to be of full years and Major the fourteenth of his age, that a Prince should transfer his affection especially in tender years; that by an escape he might enjoy a princely freedom, better know himself, and make his Rulers relish his Authority; that three hours was

sometimes of more importance than three days, and one hour of more than all the three; that he should take hold of the present occasion offered him. Pre∣pared with such informations he is no sooner accosted by the Chancellour, when approving his motions he posted towards Edenburgh with him: received all the way as he went with many companies of the Chan∣cellours friends and attendants. The Governour finding the face of the Court altered, by a King young in years and judgment, possessed by his Mo∣ther, dissimulating his interest, in a patient and calm manner cometh to Edenburgh, there after long con∣ference and mediation of friends in Saint Giles's Church, he meeteth the Chancellour, and by the Bi∣shop of Murray's and Aberdeen's diligence an agree∣ment is between them concluded, which was, That the King should remain in the custody of the Chan∣cellour, and the Governour should still enjoy his charge. Amongst these divisions of the Rulers the Queen all this time handsomly kept some authority, affecting and entertaining sometimes the one of them sometimes the other, as by turns they governed the King and State.

The many and great disorders in the Country in∣vited a Parliament: the authority of Magistrates was despised, no justice was administred in many places, few could keep their Goods, or be assured of their Lives, but by taking themselves to the servitude of one Faction or other. Troubles arose in the West by the slaughter of Sir Allan Stuart Lord Darnley, killed by Sir Thomas Boyd; and by the Revenge of his Death taken by Alexander Stewart of Bolmet his Brother upon the Boyd; the Highland Islanders invade the Territories adjacent to them, spoyl and burn the Lennox, where John Calhowen of Luss is massacred. These cruelties and insolencies against all

justice and authority being avouched such to beware, held fit to be remedied and courses laid down to obvi∣ate them: but William Earl of Dowglass permitting wickedness, and winking at mischief, often approv∣ing them for lawful and good policy, whilst he nei∣ther reformed them himself by his power, nor suffe∣red the Rulers to proceed against them by their au∣thority; purchased to himself the name and reputation of a lawless and strong oppressor. The three Estates assembled, complaints being given up against Op∣pressours, most against him and his followers, as the source from which the miseries of the Country sprang, he appeareth not, nor any to answer for him.

The Parliament determinateth to proceed by way of Rigour against him; but to this the two Rulers op∣pose, persuading them that fair speeches and entrea∣ties, was a safer and easier way to draw unto them a young Man, mighty in riches and power, arrogant by his many Followers and Vassals, than to give out a Sentence against him before he were heard, and by threatnings stir his turbulent and ambitious thoughts, which instead of making him calm, might turn his neutrality in a perfect Rebellion: and his insolency, in madness and despair. Neither as the present estate of the Country stood, could he without civil blood be commanded and brought in, which by moderati∣on might be effectuate; that verity enjoyed not al∣ways that priviledge to be spoken in every place and time; it was good to keep up in silence matters con∣cerning him, the speaking of which might produce any dangerous effec••. Upon this, Letters in their name are sent unto him, remembring him of the splendor and glory of his Ancestors, the place and dignity he possessed by them in Parliament: that without his presence they neither would or could pro∣ceed in great matters. If he apprehended any cause

of let or stay by the offences and disorders commit∣ted by his Attendants and followers, they would free∣ly remit them, as accidents following the injury of the times, and his yet tender years, his greatest fault being his giving way out of rashness and negligence to the faults of others. That of himself they had conceived such singular hopes of great towardness and all venues, if he would come and take a part with them, giving in his complaints and grievances, he should not only have full satisfaction, but be honou∣red with what place or charge in the Government he liked best; by honouring them with his Presence he should oblige not only his Country infinitely but particularly every one of them to stand for him to the utmost of their powers and wishes.

This Letter wrought powerfully upon the Mind of the Earl, by nature and years desirous of glory and preferment, and believing easily that which was plau∣sible to his hopes. His friends, who now began to promise to themselves new Heavens, think upon great matters, and forecast to themselves by the change of their Lords Fortune, a change of Offices in the State, persuade him likewise to come to the Parliament; and they divulged the certainty of his Progress. The Chancellour when he understood he was upon his way rode forth of Edenburgh to meet him, and by many obsequious complements and friendly blandishments allured and drew him to his Castle of Creighton which was in his way: where some days he rested and was honourably entertained.

Among many healthful admonitions by way of counsel, he told him, that the greatness of a Subject consisted in due obedience to his Prince, whom he should acknowledge to be his Lord and Master.

That by obedience he would vindicate the Name and Families of the Dowglasses, not only from blame

of Treason, but from all suspition of Novations; that he would endeavour to execute justice more strictly than he had done in times past, not protect Oppressors against Laws and Equity, but suppress all insolencies of Thieves and Robbers, because cru∣elties and wrongs never stood secure before either God or man. That the estates of ancient Houses were often maintained more by reputation of things done, than any other foundation, which a little diso∣bedience to a Prince might shake, if not altogether ruine. That it was fatal to all Princes in their un∣der-age, and the beginnings of their Reigns, to have troubles and seditions, and be tormented by some of their Subjects who studied novelties; but when these Princes came to perfect years, they knew well to cha∣stise those who troubled the Government in their youth. That he would hereafter rather content himself with mediocrity, than expose himself as a mark to envy. That he would make a proof of his power, not in excess and riot or pride of his ancient honours, but in bounty and religious charity toward his Country-men.

That he wished as his House had long continued, it might by following what he had spoken unto him ever flourish. The Earl of a good inclination, if flatterers and wicked company had been removed, took in good part his advertisements and counsel, thinking he spake as he thought, and (perhaps) so he did, for he had not yet put on his double Visage, and promised to repair what offences by youth, neg∣ligence, rashness or other indiscretion had escaped him: thus with his Brother David, the Chancellour accompanied him to Edenburgh.

He had not long there stayed, when the frequent meetings, many secret conferences of the Governour and Chancellour at their several houses, which often

held the greatest part of the night, who were not wont to be so kind to others, bred a great jealousie and suspicion in some of the Earls friends, that some lurking mischief was a plotting to entrap him. That small trust should be had in a reconciled enemy, and his many courtesies, and too exceeding favours were to be suspected. Hereupon some freely counsel the Earl to return home, and to leave off private meet∣ings with them. Others intreat him not to enter the Castle of Edenburgh at all, or if he should, to dismiss his brother David, to keep themselves scattered that that they might not be inclosed in one Net, as upon his Death-bed their Father had instructed and admo∣nished them. For if any violent course were intend∣ed against them, men would not dare to put in act against one of them which they would against both. David presaging some strange accident to follow this sudden kindness of the Rulers was meditating an es∣cape. The Earl took this counsel in an evil part, saying, Great Families never wanted turbulent friends, to whom common confusions served ordinarily for steps to enlarge their States, when Peace sendeth the most part of them home to live private men. And they cared not what blame were laid upon their Chiefs, so it stood with their own commodity; that the pretence of his departure would be worse than the departure it self, and that he would be obnoxious to worse surmises, and more miserable mistakings go∣ing away, than if he had never appeared. That he preferred the approved trust of the Chancellour (whose Guest he had been) to all the objections of dangers they could imagine; which suspicions he re∣quested them to suppress; for to suspect causlesly, in∣stead of imagining wrong, returned a real injury, and being known, would be a means to breed new jars, and break their begun Friendship. Thus blind-folded

by Destinie, and accompanied with some of his dearest friends, amongst whom was Sir Malcolm Flaming of Cammernald; in solemn pomp with his Brother he entred Edenburgh Castle the Twenty fourth of November: the remainder who were thrust back with sad countenances and distrusting hearts, scattered themselves in the Town.

The Governour, that the envy might be divided and shared, and all seem to be done by an universal consent, with a ceremonious welcom, and such as hate and emulation could suffer to be tempered to∣gether, did meet him and guide him to the King: at whose Table he was set to dine, which favours turn∣ed the heart of the young Earl so soft and relenting, that he wished he had sooner come to Court, and challeng'd himself of his mistrustful thoughts; but more his suspicious friends, whose presence he could have desired to be witness against themselves. The counsel given him at Creighton Castle, by obsequi∣ousness, he resolveth to thank: the Kings benign aspect and courtesies of the Rulers had advanced him to the highest degree of honour.

Amidst of these entertainments (behold the insta∣bility of Fortune!) near the end of the Banquet the head of a Bull (a sign of present Death in these times) is set down before him: At which sudden Spectacle he leapt from the Table in horror and all agast; but this doth little avail him, he hath no power, for he is ceased upon by armed Men, who rushing out of a cruel tyring House, led him to the utter Court of the Castle, not regarding the plaints, cryes, tears of the young King, who pitifully mourned to see him ma∣nacled with cords: There with his Brother David, Sir Malcolm Flaming his constant friend and com∣partner of all his Fortunes, he had his head and am∣bitious thoughts cut off. With this great blow of

State the Parliament brake up, leaving grief, terrour, astonishment in the hearts of all the people, who ever hated the Actors of this Tragedy.

William Earl of Dowglass and David his Brother taken away, the Baron of Abercorn their Uncle suc∣ceeded to the Earldom, by reason of his stature and corpulency named James the Gross: a man free of any vice or Heroical Vertue, whose years were not ma∣ny after his fortune to be Earl. He was Father to seven Sons, the eldest of which by a Dispensation from the Pope he married to Beatrice, the only Si∣ster of his Brothers Son William, named The fair Maid of Galloway, not so much in respect of her Beauty, as her Fortunes; the Lands not tailed in Gal∣loway, Annandale, Balveny and Ormond, falling from the Heirs male to be her Portion. This Marriage was much blamed and cryed out upon by the Earl of Angus, Sir John Dowglass of Dalkeith, and other Gentlemen of that Name, not as they gave out for the propinquity of blood, being between Cousin Ger∣mans, but that so fair and easie a purchase was ta∣ken out of their arms. They had always followed the King, and procured prohibitions of the Marriage; but these with spur-haste advanced the celebration of it, and upon a Friday, which the common People prognosticate to be ominous, and to have some sad event.

This Earl, ambitious, factious, popular, subtile, vindicative, prompt in the execution of his enterpri∣zes, liberal and far from the dor-muse humour of his Father, began to think neither himself nor his kin∣dred in safety, if the deaths of his Brothers and Cou∣sins, wrought by the two Rulers remained unreveng∣ed, and therefore since openly without troubling the common peace of the Country he could not, by secret and umbragious ways he laboureth to bring it to

pass: procuring a far off a disobedience to their De∣crees, and contempt of their Authority, by men in a great distance from him in place, blood, friendship and familiarity; who after any fashion grudged, repin∣ed, complained of the present form of Government, or aggravated imaginary wrongs, are supported and protected by him, his houses turned places of Refuge to distressed Male-contents. One John Gormack of Athol (not without suspicion that he wrought by the motion and order of the Earl, and understood his Cabal) essayed with a great number of Out-laws to hinder the execution of a Malefactor, and take him by main force from the Sheriff of Perth, William Ruthen: but he perished in the enterprize. Patrick Gilbreath in the Castle of Dumbartoun, for priority of command, killeth Robert Simple, and to save his person, or justifie his homicide, flyeth to the Earl of Dowglass, by whom he is protected, notwithstanding the many informations given in against him at Court, and his citation to answer to Justice.

The King whose non-age was now near expired, began to relish the sweetness of Government in his own person, and became tyr'd of the long and awful tutelage of his jarring Rulers; and the flower of his Youth seeming fram'd for great affairs, promised the fruit of a wise and happy Reign; finding it difficult to put men near daily unto him, long experienced and greedy of Rule, from high places, except by the entertaining a stronger and more powerful faction: He setteth his thoughts upon the Earl of Dowglass; small favours to him would be a great umbrage to the ambition of his Tutors, bring them within the compass of answering to what might be objected to them concerning their service in the State; he would not sue to the Earl, but as occasion served he gave many signs and open speeches, that he had not alto∣gether

withdrawn his love and favour from the an∣cient House of the Dowglasses, their passed faults being by them acknowledged and recompenced with fidelity and obedience in times coming. The Earl of Dowglass, whose towardness and liberality had ac∣quired him many friends at Court, upon assured ad∣vertisement of his Princes good-will towards him, cometh to Sterling, and is no sooner presented upon his knees before the King in the Church, when with all demonstrations of benevolence he is received in grace, pardoned, and not many days after admitted to be of the Privy Council. The King imparting to him his greatest affairs, sheweth he will follow them by his advice and counsel, honoureth him with the plausible name of Cousin, and entertaineth such fa∣miliarity with him that all others give him the place.

The promotion and credit which the Earl of Dow∣glass in a short time acquired about the King, his faction daily encreasing, moved the two Rulers (by their moderation seeking to avoid disgrace) to leave the Court. After which they were both removed from their offices, and their places and authority in Council with their whole friends and followers. They are upbraided with disorders, both in their private actions and the manner of their Government, and at last are summoned to answer before the King to such things as they should be legally accused of; the mur∣murs every where whispered amongst the people, warned and certified them, if they should appear and present themselves, of some sad and Tragick Act. Whereupon with protestations of their Innocency declining the time, appealing to the King in his ma∣jority, and when he should be of full years, from these Judges their mortal enemies than abusing absolute Power, they suspend their appearing, declaring with all their readiness in every thing to obey the King.

This availeth them nothing, for at a Parliament holden in Sterlin, Articles being forged and urged against them, especially of Peculate, as sale of Crown-Lands, waste of the Kings Treasure, the laying of their hands upon the Kings Jewels, transporting Lands to themselves and their friends, distributing Offices and places of the Crown and State (which should have been by the Authority of the Council) as Hunters divide a Prey between themselves. Dis∣pensing with Riots, and taking the force and vigour from the Laws of the Kingdom; thus as betraying the administration of the Realm into the hands of worthless and corrupted men, they are denounced Rebels, their persons and Estates proscrib'd. Charge is given to Sir John Foster of Corstorphane and others the Dowglasses adherents, to bring all their moveables to the use of the Exchequer, demolish their Houses, invade their Friends with fire and sword, and all that sided them. Thus the uncertain vicissitude of Hu∣mane accidents overturns often them who seem to be raised to the highest degree of honour. The Castle of Barentoren is besieged, taken, thrown down, with other houses upon the Governours and Chancellours Lands, their Farms and small Villages are plundered and ransacked. In revenge of which the Rulers waste the Earl of Dowglasses Territories, the Villa∣ges of Straw-brock, Abercorn, Blackness are burnt, with Corstorphane. The ravage begun, continueth with daily loss to both parties, and the overthrow of the Common-wealth.

The Earl wondreth (now having the Kings Au∣thority) to find his enemies so strong, and hold so long out against him, he suspecteth they have secret support by some not well affected towards him. The most powerful and eminent of which he guesseth to be James Kennedy Bishop of St. Andrews, and

Cousin german to the King. He knew him jealous for his sudden favours at Court, and that he had whispered amongst his friends, that he feared the am∣bition of the Earls unlimited heart was now exalted to such exorbitancy of height, that becoming top-heavy it would fall by its own weight, and turn up the Root.

The Earl will have this Prelate less powerful to assist the Rulers, or do harm unto him, To this effect he instigateth the Earl of Crawford his Allie, and Alexander Ogleby of Innerwharely, to invade the Bishops Lands, and rifle his Vassals in Fife, without order or declaration of wrongs done by him. The Bishop after the burning and spoyling of sundry of his Farms, being weak by power to resist their vio∣lence and repair his losses, took him to his Spiritual Arms, and excommunicated the Earl of Crawford. Though he made small account of this verbal Thun∣der, yet did not this injustice long escape the reveng∣ing hand of God, who raiseth up ordinarily one op∣pressor to execute his justice against another.

Alexander Lyndesay, Son to the Earl of Crawford, pretended a title to the Baylerie of Arbroth, out of which he was kept by Alexander Ogleby, whose title was equal to his, if not better. This enmity kindled to such a flame, that upon either side they assemble their friends in Arms: The Ogleby calleth the Lord Huntley, the Lindesay the Hamiltons to assist their Rights: frequent meetings having been to calm mat∣ters, and reconcile them, and nothing agreed upon nor concluded, they resolve at last to decide the cause by their Swords. The Earl of Crawford then re∣maining at Dundee, advertised of the present danger of his friends, posted in all haste to Arbroth, and cometh at the very chock of the skirmish, and when hey were to enter the Fight. Here intending by his

wisdom to take up the quarrel, and presuming upon the respect due to his place and person, he rashly rusheth forwards before his Companies to demand a party of Alexander Ogleby with his Son: But ere he could be known or was heard, he is encountred by a common Souldier, who thrust him in the mouth with a Spear, and prostrate him dead upon the ground. This sudden accident joyned the Parties, who fought with great courage and resolution: The Victory af∣ter much blood inclined to the Master of Crawford. Alexander Ogleby sore wounded, was taken and brought to the Castle of Finelvin where he died; the Lord Huntley escaped by the swiftness of his Horse. John Forbess of Pitsligow, Alexander Barkley of Garteley, Robert Maxwell of Tillen, William Gor∣doun of Borrowfield, Sir John Oliphant of Aberda∣guy with others fell on the Oglebies side; they fought the Twenty fourth of January One thousand four hundred fourty five.* 1.1

Now by attending opportunities to encrease pub∣lick disorders, turn the times dangerous and trouble∣some, and confound the State; the Earl of Dowglass kept himself in the absolute Government; by um∣bragious ways he nourished discontentments in all parts of the Country, amongst the Nobility, Gen∣try, Commons of the Realm. Alexander Earl of Crawford put to death John Lynton of Dundee, Ro∣bert Boyd of Duchal, and Alexander Lyle slew James Stuart of Auchenmintee; Patrick Hepburn of Hails, surprised the Castle of Dumbar; Archembald Dum∣bar, as if he would but change places with him, tak∣eth the Castle of Hails, where he was besieged by the Earl of Dowglass, and with conditions of safety rendred it. Sir William Creighton all this time kept the Castle of Edenburgh, and when by intreaties nor power he could not be induced to render it to the

King, his Castle of Creighton is plundered, a garison placed in it, and the Castle of Edenburgh by the Earl of Dowglass is besieged and blocked up. Nine months the Assailers lie about it: but it proveth im∣pregnable, and without loss of many Subjects can∣not be taken, about the end of which time, mens cou∣rages waxing colder, conditions are offered and re∣ceived; which were, that the Chancellor should be restored to grace, place, and whatsoever had been withheld from him by his enemies at Court, an abo∣lition and abrogation of all former discontentments should be granted, the besieged should pass out bag and baggage free. At a Parliament holden at Perth, the Chancellor was purged by an Assise of his Peers of what was laid against him, his lands and goods sei∣zed upon by the King or Dowglasses are decreed to be restored, as well to his followers as himself; he is established in his dignities and places of Honour, not∣withstanding of all Edicts, Proclamations, Confisca∣tions before, which were declared null; all matters past put in oblivion, as not done. This, considering the credit of the Earl of Dowglass, was thought ve∣ry strange; but James Kennedy Bishop of Saint An∣drews, whose respect and Authority was great with the Churchmen, perfected this Master-piece of State; and the Earl of Dowglass knew, though the Chan∣cellor was unbound, he had not yet escaped.

During these Garboyls in Scotland, Margaret Si∣ster to King James, and wife to the Daulphin of France Lewis, died at Chalones in Champagne: a vertuous and worthy Lady, beloved of all France, but most of Charles the seventh her Father in Law, who for her respect matched her three Sisters, who remained at his Court honourably; Helenora, with Sigismond Arch-duke of Austria; Elizabeth, to the Duke of Bretaigne; Mary with the Earl of Cam∣phire.

She was buried in the great Church of Cha∣lones, but after when the Daulphine came to the King, he caused transport and bury her in the Abbey Church of Loan in Poittow: Many Elegies, were published upon her death which are yet extant. Sir James Stuart, the Black Knight, husband to the Queen, at this time died also: He had turned a vo∣luntary exile, to shun the dangers and envy of the Factions of the Country, which he incurr'd by his free speeches against the misgovernment and mise∣ries of the time, and as he was bound towards Flan∣ders, by the Flemings was taken upon the Seas. The Queen out-lived not long her Daughter and Hus∣band; she was buried the fifteenth of July in the Charter-house of Perth, neer her first husband James, the year One thousand four hundred forty six. She brought forth to the black Knight of Lorn three sons, John Earl of Athole, James Earl of Buchan, An∣drew Bishop of Murray.

The Chancellor having recovered his honours and State to the disadvantage of the Earl of Dow∣glass, though of good years and tyred with the trou∣bles of a publick Life, yet findeth not any desired rest. A Marriage being designed for the King with Mary daughter of the Duke of Guilders, by the in∣structions of Charles the seventh the French King; but secretly by the procurement of the Earl of Dow∣glass, the Chancellor, as a Man grave, great in place, and experimented with the Bishop of Dunkel and Ni∣cholas Otterburn, is sent over the Seas in Embassie. This troublesome and unprofitable honour abroad is laid upon him, that he might be separate from the King, and suspended from opposing to the private designs of the Earl at home. This obstacle of his ambition removed (which had neither moderation nor limits) the Earl may exclude such Officers in

State or Court who were not agreeable to him, and substitute others of his Creation after his pleasure, he hath now room and opportunity for his greatest designs. His Kindred are without pausing preferred to Offices of State, his Brothers to new honours; Ar∣chembald is made Earl of Murray, by the marriage of a Lady of the house of Dumbar, who was Heir of the Lands, and the Kings Ward: George is created Earl of Ormond; John made Lord of Balvenie, and hath his Donation ratified in an Assembly of three Estates, who were convented at Edenburgh for mat∣ters concerning the Marriage of the King, but in effect that the Earl might pursue his old Enemies. The Commissioners are chosen after his pleasure, are prepared and instructed by him, prelimitated; and, to combine power with craft, he entreth in an offensive and defensive League with many Noble∣men, Barons, and Gentlemen of the Kingdom. All the wheels and vices of his Clock being right set, Alexander Levingston, late Governour, Alexander his eldest Son, Robert Levingston Treasurer, David Levingston, James Dundas, Robert Bruce of Clack∣mannan Knights, for Peculate and converting the Princes Treasure to their private use, are forfeited, taken and committed to sundry Prisons in December Four thousand four hundred forty seven at which time they were brought to Edenburgh;* 1.2 Alexander the Governour, James Dundas and Robert Bruce, after Fines laid upon them were remitted back to Dumbarton, there to be kept Prisoners, during the Kings pleasure. Alexander the Governours Son, a young man of great expectation, with Robert Le∣vingston Treasurer, and David Levingston, not so much by any crime proved against them, as by the Divine Justice in punishing the severity of the Go∣vernour for the execution of the Earl of Dowglass

in the Castle of Edenburgh, had their heads cut off; the people much deploring their misfortune. By this blow the Earl of Dowglass though he was more ter∣ribly avenged, than if he had proved his power against the old Man; having thus as it were killed him twice. Though by this strict Justice he pretended the Pub∣lick weal, his end was to govern all by his absolute Authority, and make the world see, what credit he had to help or harm when he pleased, admire his pompous attendance, his haughty carrying of all bu∣siness, and his power in State.

The Chancellor having perfected his Embassie, Mary daughter to Arnold Duke of Guilders, born of the Duke of Burgundies Sister, a Lady young, beau∣tiful, and of a masculine constitution, arriveth in Scotland; and with great solemnity, accompanied with many strangers and the Nobility of the King∣dom, is married to the King in the Abbey Church of Holy-rood-house; As these Nuptial Rites were finished, the Peace between Scotland and England expired, and the Borders of both Kingdoms break, and mutually invade others. Amidst much robbery, spoil and ha∣vock upon either side, the Earl of Salisbury, Lievte∣nant and Warden, upon the West depopulateth the bordering Villages, and burneth the Town of Dum∣freis; the Earl of Northumberland spoiling the East, burneth the Town of Dumbar: John Dowglass, Lord of Balvenny, invadeth the English bounds, and burneth the Town of Anwich; the ravaging and depredations in a short time turning equal, the two Kingdoms agree upon a suspension of Arms, and place, and day to treat about a general Peace; at the last by an Assembly of the States One thousand four hundred forty nine. A Truce is condescended unto for seven years. At this time Alexander Seatoun Lord Gordon, is created Earl of Huntley, and George Leslie Baron, Earl of Rothes.

This Truce was not long kept by any of the Na∣tions, but, as it had been drawn and plaistered up for the fashion, they conspire equally to break it. New incursions are made, slight skirmishes began to wound either side and banish Peace, just arms were constrain∣ed at last to be opposed to injurious oppressions. The Scots having made desolate some parts of Cumberland, an Army under the leading of the Earl of Northum∣berland is raised, commanded by Magnus Red-beard, whom the Scots by reason of the length of his beard named Magnus with a red Main. A man trained from his youth in the Wars of France; who is said to have required no more for his Service to the Crown of England, than what he might by his own valour conquer of Scotland. The English march from the West Borders, pass the River of Soloway and Annand, and encamp near the River of Sark. The Earl of Dowglass declareth his Brother George Earl of Or∣mond Lieutenant for the King against them: who with the power of the South and West loseth no time to encounter: the Earl of Northumberland, the Lord Piercy his Son, Magnus Red-beard, Sir John Pennington, Sir Robert Harrington led the English Battalions: The Earl of Ormond, Lord Maxwell, Lairds of Johnston, and Craiggy Wallace, the Scottish. Here occasion and place serving, it is valiantly fought, the fortune of the day long doubtful: till Magnus, whose experience and direction in War in those days was deemed unparalleld, his courage here turning into temerity, was beaten from his horse and slain. After his fall many turning their backs, the Earl of Northumberland himself with great danger escaped; more in the chase were lost than in the Battel; such who essayed to pass the River, by the confusion and the weight of their Arms were plunged in the water; others who could not find the Fords, being taken,

and brought to the Castle of Lochmaben; amongst which were Sir John Pennington, Sir Robert Harring∣ton, the Lord Piercy, who by saving his Father en∣gaged himself. Few renowned amongst the Scots were here lost, except Craiggy Wallace, a principal actor, who governing himself by honour and cou∣rage, died of his wounds there received not many days thereafter. The English to repair their loss rai∣sed an Army, but by the daily supplies raised for France, and their projected Civil Wars (the Duke of York, Earls of March, Warwick and Salisbury begin∣ning to toss the State) it was kept at home for their own use, and a truce was agreed upon and concluded with Scotland for the space of three years, One thou∣sand four hundred and fifty.

This Victory obtained chiefly by the valour of the Dowglasses, advanced highly their credit with the young King, and the Court sounded with nothing more than their praises. But great fortunes are as hard to bear as to acquire, and ordinarily prosperity carryeth us into insolencies, without pondring the consequence of our actions. William Colvill Knight, upon a private quarrel having slain James Auchin∣leck a follower of the Earl of Dowglass, the Earl avenged his death, not only with the slaughter of William, but with the throwing down of his House, and spoil of all his Lands: which turned cold the affections of many about the Court towards him, and made him terrible to all of a contrary Faction to his. After, whether tyred with his working thoughts, or to shun more hatred and envy, or to try what time would produce, amidst the inward grudges and ran∣cours of Court, or that he held his own Country too narrow Lists for his glory, he leaveth the Kingdom: substituting one of his Brothers Procurator for his affairs, and in his absence to govern his estate, ac∣companied

with his Brother Mr. James (a Man learned, and brought up in Sorbon Divinity, Ex∣pectant of the Bishoprick of Dunkel, James Hamil∣ton of Cadyow, the Lords Grahame, Seatoun, Oli∣phant, Saltoun, and many Gentlemen, he arriveth in Flanders, cometh to France, passeth the Alps, and it being the year of Jubilee stayeth at Rome: where he was honourably received and welcomed. Envy never leaveth great Actors; he had not been long absent from his Prince, when many are suborned to give up complaints against the oppressions, riots, wrongs of his Kindred, Servants and Vassals. The faults of his Governing the King are pryed into, eve∣ry oversight and escape aggravated to the height. The King at first was loth to lend an ear to misre∣ports and calumnies of a man lately so well deserving and dearly of him beloved: but overcome by impor∣tunity and urged by the numbers of Complainers, he gave way that his Brother and Procurators should make answer for wrongs suffered by the complainers: after many citations his Brother not appearing is at last by force presented to the Council: when he could not answer to such faults as were laid against the Earls Vassals and followers, nor acquit them of vio∣lent oppressions, he was only enjoyned to restore to the Complainers their loss, and restore all damages. Upon fair promises of Restitution the King bringeth him off the danger, and obtaineth him liberty to re∣turn home.

There, after long advisement with his other Bro∣thers and some haughty Vassals, they declare, old Ra∣pines and wrongs being joyned to new, and resent with which they were charged, the restitution was impossible, and like spilt water which could not be re∣covered. Not satisfied with this answer, the Coun∣cil cited the Earl of Dowglass upon some days to ap∣pear

before them, and all his Vassals and followers with his Brothers to answer according to Law, to such Articles as should be given in against them. The Earl was far off, and they considered it consisted not with their weal to hazard their persons to the arbitri∣ment of Judges, many of which had been obnoxious to their affronts. Thus for not appearing they are denounced Rebels, and Warrants granted to invade and spoyl their Lands, as publick enemies to Autho∣rity and the present Government. This Decree is followed by open force; and to facilitate the execu∣tion of it, and to take up the Earl of Dowglasses Rents, William Earl of Orkney cometh to Galloway, Dow∣glass-dale, Liddes-dale: But he found, Authority not seconded with power against lusty Rebels, to produce weak effects; for he returned, disobeyed, contemn∣ed, and near spoiled and rifled by the Earls Tenants and Vassals.

The King to vindicate his Authority, since he could not prevail by reason, with competent Forces in per∣son entreth the same Territories, taketh all the strong Fortresses and Castles where he came, demolisheth the Castle of Dowglass, placeth a Garrison in Loch∣mabane, giveth the custody of such places he spared with the whole Goods and Moveables appertaining to them, to the Complainers and men interested in wrongs or blood by the Rebels. The noise of this unexpected backblow being heard at Rome, perplex∣ed not a little the Earl of Dowglass: Many of his train leave him, that where lately he represented a Prince, he seemed now scarce a private Gentleman; he was assured he lived under a Soveraign who mau∣gre all detractions, would hear his own defences. Upon which hopes he resolveth to return, taketh him to his Journey, and for his greater haste and safe pro∣gress, he obtaineth a Pass through England, come to

the Borders of Scotland, his Brother James is directed to the Court, to understand the Kings mind towards him, and if there were any possibility in this ebb of favours to have access to him.

The King ingeniously promiseth to accept him, and performed it, for all that hapned by the misde∣meanor of his Friends in his absence, requesting that he would but live peaceably according to the order of the State, without hating that which his Prince loved, or improving that which he approved and au∣thorized; and that as himself and his Brothers were ever the most able and readiest to repeal the wrongs of Strangers, so they would endeavour to entertain unity and concord in the Country it self, and purge their Lands of Thieves and Robbers; if mischievous and wicked men were not punished, there would be no surety nor safety for the good and vertuous. Past wrongs are pardoned, the Garrisons removed from his Castles, and they are rendred unto him. Then to put him in assurance of encreasing favours, he is made Lieutenant General of the Kingdom, a place great and requiring great action, being only to be be∣stowed upon a Man active, great in power and friends.

The Earl of Dowglass again afloat in the stream of his Soveraigns favours, might have continued, if his miseries had not been decreed from above: soon after he falls in a new disgrace; whether upon a promise of return, or that he was sent for, or that he would officiously give thanks for receiving cour∣tesies when he was in his way homewards, he passeth privately to the Court of England, and without his Masters knowledge or leave hath many days serious conference with the Nobility of that Kingdom, then many ways distressed by the Rebellion of Kent, and the Factions of the great Men. The pretended

cause of his journey was given out to be the repair∣ing of his own and his Vassals losses, sustained by the inrodes of the English the time of his travels abroad, and the redressing of other disorders on the West bor∣ders; but his Enemies suggested he intended to enter a League with some of the English to the disadvan∣tage of his Master, and trouble of his Country, by changing the Form of Government, or the Officers of State. King James took his meeting with the English in an evil part; but after great intercession and many requests of the Queen and Noblemen after he had submitted himself to his clemency, and ac∣knowledged his Errors, received him. In this mean time he is discharged of all publick employments; his Offices of State are divided between the Earl of Orkney and the Lord Creightoun his reconciled Ene∣mies.

Removed from publick employments he giveth himself to study private revenge, and the whole secret Council turn distasteful unto him: especially Orkney and Creightoun, men perfectly abhorring his ambiti∣on, and who greatly feared his dismeasured greatness.

Their suspected affronts and alledged wrongs to∣wards him were increased daily by tales of Syco∣phants. It was told the Earl, that the Lord Creigh∣toun in conference with the King, had said, it were expedient for the peace of the Country, That the Earl of Dowglass with all his friends and followers were rooted out, and their memory abolished; but if that were left undone, neither should the King rule in due Majesty, nor the Subjects ever give him that obedi∣ence which they ought. That wise Princes suffered houses to grow as men do Spider-webs, not taking heed of them so long as they were small, but when offensively encreased, they swept them wholly away. Irritated by these and many such like speeches, after

much contempt of the Chancellour, on dawning, as he was early coming from Edenburgh to his Castle of Creighton, the Earl who wanted not his own in∣telligence amongst his followers (Hatred being an evil Counsellour) laid an ambush for him on the high way. But the clearness of the morning discovering it, by the swiftness of his horse he escapeth; some of his company being wounded, and one of the Assai∣lers slain in the pursuit. Two days after, the Chan∣cellor to repair his credit, accompanied with a num∣ber of his friends and followers, coming in great haste to Edenburgh, had unawares surprized the Earl of Dowglas, then attended but with a small number of his friends, if he had not speedily shifted himself from the danger. This contention now bursting forth into open Hostility, divided into Factions the whole Kingdom; The Earl of Dowglass maintain∣ing his by the long continued grandeur of his House, the Chancellor standing by his Princes favour, and a long practice of the affairs and course of the World; The Earl fearing the Authority of the King might sway the Ballance and make the party unequal, if he should be brought to call to remembrance passed actions and attempts of his Predecessors, findeth no∣thing more expedient to curb his enemies, and strengthen his proceedings, than to renew his old Confederation, and combine with him many others. Hereupon the Earls of Crawford, Ross, Murray, Or∣mond, the Lord Balvenny, Knight of Cadyow, many Barons, Gentlemen with their Allies, Vassals, Servants to a great number, subscribed and swore solemnly ne∣ver to desert one another during life; That injuries done to any one of them, should be done to them all, and be a common quarrel; neither should they de∣sist to their best abilities to revenge them: That they should concur indifferently against whatsoever Per∣sons

within or without the Realm, and spend their Lives, Lands, Goods, Fortunes in defence of their Debates and Differences whatsoever. This confe∣deration and Covenant again renewed, turned the Earl imperious in his deportments, presumptuous be∣yond all limits, and his followers and adherents insup∣portable to their neighbours: The Lands of such who were not of their party, or refused to think all their thoughts and second them in their enterprizes, were plundered; and goodness was a cause to make men suffer most pillage and ransacking of their Goods, and other miserable calamities. At this time the Thieves and Robbers of Liddes-dale and An∣nandale break into the Lands of John Lord Herress, a Noble Man, who had continued constantly faith∣ful to the King, and drive with them a great booty of Cattle: Complaints being given to the Earl of Dow∣glass of the Depredations of his men, and finding no redress, the Lord Herress essayeth to drive the like prey in recompence of the damage; but being un∣equal in power, his fortune was to be taken by the Thieves, and brought as a Prisoner to the Earl, who layed him fast in Irons; and notwithstanding of the Kings Letters (full of Intreaties and Threatnings) without any formality of Law, caused, Hang him as a Felon: The like mischief was practised in other places. After this contempt of Soveraignty, it was universally blazed, that the Earl of Dowglass, in re∣spect of his new Covenant, the power of his Kinsmen and Allies, the entertaining of such who were discon∣tent and discountenanced at Court, the love and fa∣vour of the men of Arms in Scotland (ever governed by some of his Name) his riches, the honour of his Ancestors, had resolved to dissemble no longer, but openly to play his game, essay one day if he could set the Crown upon his own head, being then able

to raise an Army of Forty thousand warlike persons, men ready to go with him, whither, or against whom they cared not, attending only the occasion and his Commandment.

The King who before but disdained the pride, af∣ter this League became jealous of the Earl of Dow∣glass (a League giving a Law to a King breaking all bonds of Soveraignty, and inviting a people to look for a new Master) and though his modesty and patience served only to turn the Earl more insolent, and his boldness more active, yet in a foul game he bare a fair countenance; knowing the last thing which a Soveraign Prince should do, is to shew him∣self Male-content and offended with any of his Sub∣jects; for instead of chastising him, he would give him fairer means and greater power to do him harm: He would not shew a token of any prejudicial thought to the Earls proceedings, till he had first heard himself.

Thus very calmly he desired him to come and speak with him at Sterlin, whiles he (conscious of his own misdemeanor) except upon a publick assurance un∣der the great Seal for his safe coming and return, re∣fused to do: A safe conduct obtained,* 1.3 about the Shrew-tide, in the year One thousand four hundred fifty two he came to the Court then remaining at Sterlin Castle, accompanied with many of his Confe∣derates, and a powerful Retinue: The King with a gracious countenance, and all apparent respect recei∣ved him, endeavouring rather by kindness and hu∣manity, than by rigor to reclaim him to his former obedience. The day near spent, the Gates of the Castle shut, all removed, except some of the Coun∣cil and the Guards; the King taking the Earl friend∣ly apart, remembred him of favors received, wrongs forgotten, the duties, as a Subject, he owed to his

Prince, his capitulation before he would come and speak with him; he taxed him with the exorbitant abuses and outrages of his followers: then he told him what Informations he had of a Covenant of mu∣tual defence and adherence betwixt him and some of his Nobles and Gentlemen, which he would scarce believe: He prayed him to consider the murmuring, or rather begun sedition of his people, his long pa∣tience in tolerating his proceedings, his misbelief of evil reports towards him, until he had heard what he had to say for himself and his innocency.

The Earl answered the Kings towardness in equal terms, trusting much to his confederation; for his favours he should strive with all obsequiousness to de∣serve them; That as he had the honour to command others who obeyed him, he knew very well how to be commanded, and obey his Prince, and in what disobedience consisted; that as none of his Subjects enjoyed more Lands and Honours than himself, there should not one be found who more willingly would engage all his fortunes and person for the Honour of his Prince: That they who layed snares for his life, being so near his Majesty, for the surety of his per∣son he could not come to Court, except upon a pub∣lick assurance, and well accompanied: For the wrongs committed by his Followers and Vassals, he would give what satisfaction should be required; Concerning the Band of mutual friendship betwixt him and some Noblemen, they would have adhered together without any writing; they were driven thereunto for their own safety, not out of mind to offer, but repel injuries: That he was infinitely ob∣lig'd to his goodness, in not condemning him before he was heard, and for that he had not lent a credu∣lous ear to his enemies mischievous devices.

The King replyed, effects and not words make

the affection and submission of a subject known; and could there be any greater surety for him, than to rely on the Laws of the Commonwealth and Country? especially (continued he) in a Country where Laws, and not Faction rule, and where a mans own goodness is able to preserve him: But such men as you are, raise these Factions, to the subversion of all Laws and Authority; and for Subjects to make an offensive and defensive League against all persons, is to disclaim all Government, and do what they please without controulment; commit Treason in the highest degree, and make your own Swords and Power justifie your proceedings, which, though ye first use against mean persons, and conceal the pro∣gress of your actions (for there are degrees in evil, and wicked men begin at that which seemeth the least of evils, or not an evil at all at the first) your last aim is likely to be the robbing upon the Crown: Con∣sider (my Lord) ye are born under a Monarchy, which admitteth no Soveraignty but it self, and it is natural to Princes to hold it in highest esteem, and in no case to suffer it to be shaken by their Subjects: Take your Prince for your best protection, and an in∣nocent life; renounce that Union and League with your Peers, which excepted, or commanded, or ap∣proved, or remitted by your Prince, subsisteth not in Law nor in Reason, being forbidden under great pains; and let it not be heard any longer, that ever such an unjust Confederation way, and so wonted cle∣mency shall be preferred before deserved Justice; The Earl replyed, The League being drawn up by the common consent of many Lords, Barons and Gentlemen, and subscribed, it could not be cancell'd nor renounc'd but by their common consent; nor was it profitable for the King, nor to him other ways to have it done: That being together, they might

condescend to the renouncing and cancelling of it. But (says the King) you to shew good example to the rest, shall first begin; Neither (living) shall any Traytor in my presence disavow and disclaim my Authority, in what is within my possibility of ac∣complishing. The Earl requests him to remember, he came to Court upon a publick assurance: A pub∣lick assurance cannot so warrant any man, but that he may fall by his own private misdemeanor, answer∣ed the King; withal, considering a mean courage in a King to be an imputation, and that he did neither wrong towards God nor his Fame, in revenging him∣self upon the enemies of the State; The place, a strong Castle; his present power, all within being his Councellors and Servants; the danger if he should escape; the easiness of suppressing the Re∣bellion, the head taken away: (The Earl continuing hot and stubborn, in debating his points of the League, wrath banishing other Doubts and Interests) his Dagger performed, what armed Justice scarce da∣red attempt: The Kings blow (the noise arising) was seconded by a number of his Servants, who rush∣ing in the Room left him dead, upon Shrewd-Eve, the Twenty second of February, One thousand four hundred fifty two.

About the last Scene of this Tragedy, a pair of Spurs between two Platters (an Emblem of speedy flight) as a part of the Kings Banquet, is directed to Sir James Hamilton of Cadyow; This he commu∣nicated to the Lords and Gentlemen of the Union, in which time the News of the Earls death is spread abroad: The Leaguers finding themselves weak to carry so strong a place as the Castle, in hot blood set on fire divers quarters of the Town of Sterlin, make Proclamation against the King and his Council, for violating the assurance granted the Earl: Infamous

Libels are spread every where, and the safe Conduct of the King and his Council bound to a wooden Truncheon at a Horses-tail is trailed along the streets: In the Market-place, by the mouth of a Cryer, to the sound of all their hunting-horns, they declare the King, and those that abode with him, Faith-breakers, perjured persons, enemies to all goodness and good men. James the next brother of the house of Dow∣glass (a Church-man) being proclaimed Earl, in rage and madness, committing all sort of Hostility; they over-run the Lands and Possessions of those whom they suspected would side the King, and not prove of their party: John Lord of Dalkeith their Kinsman, and of the name of Dowglass, they be∣siege in his Castle of Dalkeith, for that he hated their proceedings; the Tenants and Vassals of the Earl of Anguss are plundered for the same cause: The strength of the place raised the Siege of Dalkieth; and the Earl of Anguss, by their many wrongs and insolencies, remained more constant to the King.

In this time the King writeth to all the good Towns in the Realm, and Church-men, giving rea∣sons for the taking away of the Earl, imputing the fault to the Earl himself, exhorting the people to make no stir for the just execution of a Man born for the ruine of the Kingdom, and who voluntarily had precipitated himself in his own mis-hap; offer∣ing all his power to keep the Country in quietness, according to that Authority in which God hath pla∣ced him: This blow, as particular Interests made the hearts of men incline, and as passions were various, was variously and in several manners taken. Some without inquiring of circumstances, after what fashi∣on or occasion soever done, allowing it, thought the King had more clear and evident inducements for his deed, then could fall within the Labyrinths of rea∣soning.

The Majesty of a Prince, hardly falleth from an height to a midst, but easily is precipitated from any midst, to the lowest degree and station; The King (said they) hath obviated this fall, hath set afoot again and raised his Authority threatned with ruine; he hath vindicated his liberty almost thrall'd, hath assured the Lives, Honours, Estates of many Loyal Subjects, which were endangered by not adhering to the League of the Earl, and keeping their Oath of Allegiance to the King; he (if he please now with Honor and Reputation may hold his Par∣liaments, bring to pass his designs for the conservati∣on of his Authority, and the peace of his Subjects. Others blamed this Deed every where, and in every circumstance: laying perjury and murder against him, and the breaking of the publick Faith and Assurance, the common Band of humane Society, the common defence of all, and the ground of Justice.

To which it was answered, that the Earl was not taken away for his past demerits and misdeservings, but for what he had recently committed in the Kings own presence, having spoken to him with an insup∣portable irreverence: They which have safe con∣duct, being obliged to shun all kind of offence to∣wards him who gives it them, any enormity being sufficient to annul the benefit of it.

More, for the breach of Faith, the Earl and his confederates were the more perjured; and he the murtherer of himself: they having violated that Na∣tural Oath to their King, which all Subjects owe to their Soveraigns, by drawing up a League among his People, to the breaking of the tyes of Soveraignty, giving by this, occasion and just cause to the King to reward them after their demerits. Most said the kil∣ling of the Earl was evil, but that it was a necessary evil. That as Nature suffereth not two Suns, so rea∣son

of State suffereth not that in one Kingdom there be Two Kings, but that of necessity the one must overthrow the other; and matters going thus, he who giveth the first blow hath the advantage. Thus did Men judge diversly, after their proper Interests, of the deeds of others.

The Torrent of these disorders encreasing, Laws are neglected, Towns Villages, Houses, the High∣ways are every where afflicted with Rapine, Fire, and Fury, and save needy boldness, nothing is safe and se∣cure in any place.

The changing Multitude (like Mad-men limning Pourtraicts with their own blood) delight in their Proceedings, and daily encrease the number of the Rebels. In this Insurrection the King is reduced to many extremities, and is said to have thought upon an escape by Sea to France, if he had not been diver∣ted by James Kennedy, Bishop of St. Andrews, who told him, That to leave the Kingdom was to give all over to the insolency of his Rebels, and for fear of burning, to leap into the fire it self. That besides the high and long continued Title of a King, which the best part of his Subjects yet reverenced, he had sufficient Friends and Warlike men, who appearing in a Field with him would raise a just fear in the hearts of those who so hainously dared disobey him. That God would be present to revenge wronged Ma∣jesty, and turn their hopes in despair; That the Common People were ever changing, and a little time would make them flow to these from whom they did ebb; and all would return again, except such as were guilty of other offences, or such whose po∣verty made them fear a beggerly Peace as their great∣est punishment. That his chiefest and principal City stood good for him, which example the other Towns would undoubtedly follow; that Rebellion

was like Thunder, the noise of which (if observed duely) was often more terrible than the blow, and dissolved ordinarily in tears of Repentance and fair Weather: that here the prudence of a Prince mani∣festeth it self, when he cannot suppress and stop all the evils in his State, to suffer and tolerate the least, and with leasure and time abolish and extirpate the grea∣ter, and make vertue of Rebellion.

The King by the Bishops Counsel and Assistance, gathereth an Army, but will not try the hazard of a Battel, before those he had advertised and sent for, should joyn with these already about him, and his Forces from all the Quarters of the Kingdom be uni∣ted. In the North, the Earl of Huntley had raised a goodly Company to come to his aid; but the Earl of Crawford, a Confederate of the Earl of Dowglass, with a power of the men of Anguss, and all who would follow him, guided by some French Com∣manders essayed to cut off his passage, and rencoun∣treth him at Brechen; the Battel is fought, and the Victory inclined where the Kings Standard was dis∣played by the Earl of Huntley. The equity of the cause laid aside, the occasion of this Victory was as∣cribed to John Coloss of Bonnymoon, who having one of the Wings of the Army to guide, which consisted of Battel-axes, great Swords, and long Spears, and the best invasive Weapons, in the hottest of the Skir∣mish gave ground, and left the middle Ward naked upon his side: the reason of his revolt is reported, that the night before the Battel, when every man was resolving with his affairs of the World, Bonnymoon requested the Earl of Crawford, of whom he held his Lands-Ward, and relief, since the next day he was resolved, either to be victorious, or die in the Field, to subscribe a Precept (himself falling) for entring his Son to his Lands. This the Superiour refusing, the

Vassal out of a just indignation, when he should have Charged, retired, and his Company with him. Such thoughts possessed not the Earl of Huntlies minde; he dealt not so sparingly with his friends in hope of their good service: To the Forbesses, Oglebies, Leslies, Grants, Irwines, he freely gave many of his own Lands, which raised their courage to the height. In requital of which, the King after bestowed upon him the Lands of Badyeenoch and Lochaber. In the con∣flict the Earl of Huntley lost two Brothers; the Earl of Crawford and Sir John Lindsay his brother, being left on the Field, fled to his house of Phanheaven, where he was heard to say, He would be content to remain seven years in Hell, to have in so timely a season done the King his Master that Service the Earl of Huntley had performed, and carry that applause and thanks he was to receive from him. This con∣flict happened upon the Ascension-day, the Eigh∣teenth day of May, One thousand four hundred fifty two.

The King by the confluence and resort of many worthy Subjects unto him, having time to breath, and finding himself in a calm, keepeth a Convention of the States at Edenburgh; Ere the Earls of Dow∣glass, Crawford, Ormond, Murray, the Lord Balve∣ney, Sir James Hamilton, and others, are cited to an∣swer according to Law: They instead of appearing, in the Night, upon the doors of the Principal Chur∣ches and other places eminent, fix many Placates and Libels signed with their hands; which bear, The Earl of Dowglass nor his Followers will never obey Command nor Charge in time coming, nor answer ci∣tation, for that the King is not a just Master, but a Blood-sucker, a Murtherer, a Transgressor of Hospita∣lity, a Surpriser of the Innocent and such who deser∣ved no harm at his hands: Not long after the King

levied an Army, which by the approaching Winter did little Service; and the Earl of Dowglass, to save the Lands of Beatrice his Brothers Widow, unsepa∣rated from the House, sought by a Dispensation from the Pope to have her in Marriage, alledging her un∣touched of his Brother; which being refused him, he kept her in place of his wife, the effect of his Sor∣bon Divinity, and found hereby more Bryars than Roses.

The Earl of Crawford placing two stricts of Seas betwixt him and the King, spoileth the Lands of all those who forsook him at Brechen; and Archembald Earl of Murray, burneth the Pile of Srath-Boggy, pertaining to the Earl of Huntley; in revenge of which, the Earl of Huntley burnt and herried all the Lands of the Earl of Murray beyond the Spey: The King too, in this madness of Mankind, defaceth his own Country, pulling down the Houses of his Rebel-Subjects, and wasting Annan-dale: This ravage and mutual overturning of all, having continued almost two whole years, the Faction of the Earl, far inferi∣our to the Kings, now weakned with such lasting In∣cursions, sundry of the chief men and heads consider∣ing the least faults were the best, that it was better to strike sail in time, than make a full shipwrack of their Persons, Honors, and the well of the Kingdom and State, counsel the Earl, that Fervors growing colder, since it could not be undone which was done, he would not set greater work on foot, but proceeding with conveniency, submit himself friendly to the King, who had as much goodness as generosity, and sought and required nothing of his Subjects but obe∣dience; and having now proved how difficile it was to overcome them by Arms, was (perhaps) as much tyred as they, would pardon these faults which he could not otherwise amend. Necessity in Affairs of

Princes, constraining them to yield to many things in Government against their first Conclusions, and resolve to grant that which they could not well hin∣der: That there were many hours in the day, and the hearts of Princes were subject to change in them; that he should not forsake the Publick-weal of the Kingdom for his private Considerations: That after this trouble of State, he might be more esteemed and sought after by the King, as it is ordinarily practised among Princes and great men, who affect only that which is necessary unto them.

To these the Earl answered, That they had went too far forwards to think of any cowardly retreat and coming back again; that the only vertue under a Tyrant, was to die constantly; that other vertues did fight, but constancy alone triumphed: That for himself, he would never trust his life to the mercy of those who under colour of friendship and banqueting, had first made away his two Kinsmen, and after his own Brother; for if they being Innocents, were thus handled, what might he expect who had been the occasion of such distraction in the State? He that once had broken his faith, except by a surety, is unable again (in Law) to contract and enter in Bond with any; who will be surety between a King and his Subjects? That Treaties, Agreements, Co∣venants, Bargains of a Prince with rebellious Sub∣jects, engage him no farther, no longer than the Term-time, or day, which pleaseth him to accept, observe and keep them, as they turn or may turn to his utility and advantage; that as in Nature there is no regress found from privation to an habit, so nei∣ther in State men once disgraced do return to their former Honours: That Princes mortally hated all Subjects who had either attempted to over-rule them by power, or had cast any terrour upon them; and

howsoever by constraint they bear sail for a time, in the end they were sure pay-masters: That there was nothing more contrary to a good Agreement, then to appear to be too earnest and busie to seek to ob∣tain it; he would sue for none: That all his days he had loved sincerity, constancy, and fidelity, and could not unsay and recant what he had promised and practised, nor do against his heart: His friends and his own standing was by their Swords, which should either advance their enterprizes and turn them Victor, or they would die Honourably like themselves and Men, and not ignobly be murdered like Beasts.

This free and dangerous resolution of the Earl, moved many who heard, to provide for their own safety, and resolve not to suffer long misery for other mens folly, finding this war was not like to have any end, and that danger and death would be the only reward of their Rebellion. Amongst others the Earl of Crawford, after great adversity, when he could not move the Earl of Dowglass to submit himself to the Kings clemency, with many tears and protestati∣ons of his sincerity love and counsel to him, left him; and some weeks after, as the King was in Progress in Anguss, in a sad penitential manner, accompanied with his best friends, coming in his way with much humility and sorrow, He acknowledged his fault, pleading rather for pity to his house, which had so long flourished, than to his person. The King know∣ing his example would be no small occasion to wea∣ken the power of the Earl of Dowglass, and that of all the Rebels he was the greatest object of his Cle∣mency, was content to receive him, but he would have it done by the mediation of James Kennedy, Bishop of St. Andrews, and the Lord Creightoun, once his greatest Enemies, which he refused not to embrace. Thus freely remitted with those who ac∣companied

him, he returned to his own House of Phanheaven, where within few moneths he died of a burning Ague.

The three Estates, after assembled at Edenburgh, where James Earl of Dowglass, the Countess Beatrix, whom he kept by way of a pretended Marriage, Archembald Dowglass, Earl of Murray, George Earl of Ormond, John Dowglass Lord of Balveny, with others their adherents, friends and followers, are At∣tainted of High Treason, and their Lands and Goods are Confiscate and discerned to be seized on to the Kings use. The Earldom of Murray is given to James Creighton, who had married the eldest Daughter of the Earl of Murray; but he perceiving he could not possess it in peace, turned it back again to the King. At this time George Creightoun was created Earl of Caithness; William Hay Constable Earl of Arrol, Darly, Halles, Boyd, Lyle and Lorn, Lords of Parlia∣ment; the King maketh a rode into Galloway, re∣ducing every strong hold and Castle of the Country to his Power; Dowglass-dale he abandoned to the spoil of the Souldier.

Matters at home turning desperate, the Earl of Dowglass being brought to that pass, that he knew not what to wish or fear, James Hamilton of Cad∣yow is sent to England to invite the ancient enemy of the kingdom to take a part of her spoil, and help to trouble the King. But the English had greater business amongst themselves than could permit them to Wed the Quarrels of the Earl. After Sir James Hamilton was returned with an excuse, and regret that some of the English Lords could not supply their confusion, but only by their counsel, he advised the Earl of Dowglass to trust to his own Power and For∣ces, which were sufficient, measuring their Courage, and not counting their Heads, to hold good against

the King. There was no human affairs where men were not necessitated to run some danger, nor any business taken in hand with such a certainty, which by unknown causes, and even light ones, might not run a hazard of some mishap; That he should study to embrace and accept of what was most honourable and least dangerous: it was better once to try the worst, then ever to be in fear of it: it was fit for him to commit something to fortune, and wisdom could counsel nothing but to shun the greatest evil. This lingring war would not only tire, but over-come and vanquish them, when one fair day of battel, either by death or victory would crown their desires. Others advised him, not to hazard upon a Battel, except up∣on seen and approved advantage, and to time it out a while; in this lingring War a Truce might be a∣greed upon, which ere long might turn in a Peace, in which every thing passed might be forgotten and pardoned; That Wars were managed more by occa∣sions and times than by arms; That the King could not be now but tyred, since he had learned, that by essaying by arms to overcome them he had gained nothing but trained up his Subjects, whom he called Rebels, in all Warlike Discipline, and had his Coun∣try spoiled and the Policy defaced. Should they once enter in blood, all hopes were gone of any conditions of peace.

At this time the King besieged the Castle of Aber∣corn, to relieve the besieged, hither marcheth with all his Forces the Earl of Dowglass; being come within view of the Kings Army, he observeth their march slow, the countenance of his Souldiers altered, much whispering, and their spirits in a manner dejected. Countrymen were to Fight against Countrymen, friends against friends, and all against their Prince. Interpreting this rather to proceed from their weari∣edness,

than want of good will to enter the Lists, as well to refresh and cherish them to be more prompt and lusty of courage the next morning, as to take counsel what course to follow, and how to dispose of their Game, he stayeth that afternoon and pitcheth his Tents. To men unfortunate every thing turneth an enemy. Whether Sir James Hamilton gave way to this, or not, uncertain; but after (it is said) that in a chafe he told the Earl, he had neglected the op∣portunity of Fight, and should never see so fair a day again, in which he might have hazarded one cast of a Dye for a whole Kingdom. But his Fortune was now declined, and (perhaps,) would never stand up∣right; that by giving that night to his Souldiers to pause and deliberate on the matter, they would (per∣chance) take the safest way, be more advised what to enterprise the next morning, readily not Fight at all, consisting of a number of bold young Gentle∣men, Volunteers, who for the most part out of bra∣very and compassion followed him; That the Kings Army by his lingring and lying off was encouraged, finding they were to cope with men who would ad∣vise ere they fought. After which speeches he bad the Earl farewel: And now, knowing that the way lay open both for Pardon and Favour to him that would first seek it, he in the night breaketh out with some friends, and having got over the fields betwixt the two Camps, was brought safely to the King, who graciously received, and freely pardoned him: The Army having understood the clandestin Revolt and escape of Sir James Hamilton, disbanded, every man slipping away by secret passages to his own habitati∣on, that on the morrow there was nothing to be seen but the solitary field upon which they had encamped: The King out of joy of this bloodless Victory, cau∣sed Proclaim in all his chief Towns, That since Sove∣raign

Authority had no less splendor by the actions of Clemency, then by these of Justice; all those who had followed the Earl of Dowglass, and been of his party, rather by mis-fortune and unadvised rashness, than any evil will against him, should be freely pardoned: Those who would abandon the Earl and come to the Kings Camp, whosoever they were, no Justice, no Law should trouble them, but they should be received to mercy, and have all Pardon: After this Proclamation, many submitted themselves to the King and were pardon∣ed; though Sir James Hamilton was remitted, yet that under colour of reconciliation worse mischief might not be plotted, the King sent him, with the Earl of Orkney, to the Castle of Rossline during his pleasure, and the taking in of the Castle of Aber∣corn: remembring also it was some prejudice to a Prince to be obliged to any Rebel.

The Earl of Dowglass gathering together the split pieces of his Ship-wrack, with his Brothers, and so many of his Confederates as would not forsake him, flieth to England; here with much Travel, by many promises of Rewards, great hopes of spoil, gathering unto him a power of Out-laws, Felons, Bancker-outs, and such as lived by Rapine, as well of his own Nati∣on as of the English, he maketh a Rode upon the West borders of Scotland; some Villages being burnt, many preys, much spoil being driven into England; at last, he meeteth with the valiant men who were appointed to defend the Marches, the Max∣wells and Scots; here in a furious skirmish his Com∣panies are discomfited: Archibald Earl of Murray's Brother is slain, and his Head sent to the King; the Earl of Ormond is taken Prisoner, himself with the Lord Balvenny with great difficulty escaped in a Fo∣rest; when he sought to return again into England, he findeth all passages stopped up, the ways layed

for him, and beginning to feel much want, he is con∣strained in a disguised habit to lurk meanly in the in∣most parts of Scotland, till he wandred toward the far High-lands, where finding Donald Earl of Ross, Lord of the Isles, one of his League, a man cruel, ar∣rogant, unpolisht, after many discourses and long conference with him (being no less eloquent than active) he possesseth him with great hopes (after a division of the Kingdom between them two) of an absolute power and Government of all the High∣lands, besides the wealth and treasure which he would purchase by the spoil: He requireth only he would break upon the more civil Countries, bring all the Fire-brands he could to kindle and trouble them, and cut work for the King, whilst he with new supplies, and a great Army to be raised in England, should in∣vade the Marches and bordering Countries: The Earl of Ross, who thought nothing impossible to him, being to himself in these barbarous parts by phanta∣sie a King, and was used to vaunt of a long pedegree from Fergus, relisheth the profit and possibility of this Enterprise, sweareth to leave nothing undone for the accomplishing of it, and parting with him upon mutual assurance, entreateth only celerity and swift performance of what they had concluded.

Scarce was the Earl of Dowglass in England, when the Earl of Ross, the two Pillars of his Designs being Injustice and Violence, supported by fair hopes from the South with his wild Mountainers and Islanders (like an inundation) over-runneth the Neighbour bounds: Argile suffereth the first effects of their fury, the Isle of Arran, is taken, and the Castle made a Bon-fire (as if they were the Sacrifice for the sins of the rest) the Bishop of the Isles saveth himself by flight, and taketh Sanctuary; Lochquebar and Mur∣rayland are spoiled, the Town of Innerness is set on fire,

the Castle surprised, Murders, Ravishings, Robbe∣ries, with what insolency the barbarous Canibals could commit, are every where, and the sad image of death ravageth amongst the common people: The Earl of Dowglass now at his last shifts and efforts, leaveth no shifts nor helps unsought out; such who lived upon prey and spoil resort unto him; he maketh hot in∣cursions, and after a most hostile manner, which pur∣chaseth him the hatred of all his Country-men, and turned those who were indifferent in his quarrel, his professed enemies: this ravage continuing, Henry Earl of Northumberland (after slain at Caxtoun-field) whom love of the valor of the House of Dow∣glass, and the true commiseration, had brought to take arms with him, invadeth one quarter of the Marsh, and the Earl of Dowglass turneth towards another: But whilst they are dispersed, and more eager and intentive to carry away spoil, than to look to their own safety and military discipline, the Earl of Anguss, with Sir James Hamilton of Cadyow, put them both (with number and confusion overborn) to flight, slaying many, and taking more Prisoners: After this overthrow, during the Kings reign, the Earl of Dow∣glass deliberating not to oppose longer to necessity, but to be still till better times, never attempted to In∣vade his Country.

Amidst these incursions, the Earl of Ormond at Edenburgh is beheaded: the Countess of Dowglass, Beatrice (all hopes being lost of restoring her Hus∣band) despoiled of her Lands and fair Heritage, turned now a Monster of Fortune, the blame of her unlawful Wedlock laid upon the Earl, consented to by her out of a certain fear of her life, submitted her self to the Kings Clemency. The King, who denied not mercy to any that sought it of him, that the less guilty amongst the seditious might withdraw themselves,

and the obstinate remain the less powerful and weak, receiveth her; and giveth her in Marriage to his Brother John, Earl of Athol, son to the Black Knight of Lorne, designing for her Dowry the Lordship of Balveny.

By her example the Countess of Ross, abhorring the fierceness and cruelties (as she gave out) of her barbarous Husband, but rather out of policy to be an Agent for him, flyeth to the King, and hath Reve∣nues allowed her for the maintenance of her Estate. Not long after the Earl of Ross himself, the misad∣venture of his Confederates having taught him now some wisdom, having seen the Kings Clemency to∣wards others equal to him in Treason and Rebellion, by many humble supplications craved pardon, and begged peace. The King by his great prudence, and the course of the affairs of his Kingdom, knew that it was necessary sometimes to condescend to the imperfections and faults of some Subjects, and having compassion, apply and accomodate himself to that which though according to the strictness of equity was not due, yet for the present occasion and reason of State was convenient, answered, he would neither altogether pardon him, nor flatly reject him, there being many signs of his wickedness, few of his chan∣ged mind; when honestly without fraud or guile, he should crave a Pardon, and give satisfaction to those whom by blood and pillage he had wronged and by some noble action deface the remembrance of his former crimes, then should it be good time to receive him. Notwithstanding this should not discourage him, but he should know he had a desire to make him relish the effects of his bounty, so he himself would find the means and subject. In this interim he wished him to keep the common peace of the Country, and not oppress any of his Neighbours. About this time

the University of Glasgow was founded by William Turnbul Bishop of that See; William Hay Earl of Arrol, George Creightoun Earl of Caithness, William Lord Creightoun, died One thousand four hundred fifty five, and the Bishop of St. Andrews is made Chancellour.

The King partly having loosed, partly cut in pie∣ces that Gordian knot of the League of his Nobility, began to reobtain again the ancient Authority of the Kings his Predecessours, giving and imposing Laws to his Subjects, according to reason and greatest con∣veniences. Shortly progressing through the Quar∣ters of the kingdom, by the sound counsel and in∣structions of the Bishop of St. Andrews, James Ken∣nedy and William Saintclare Earl of Orknay, used such clemency, that in a short time he reclaimed all his turbulent subjects. In the year One thousand four hundred fifty five he held a Parliament, where he ratified what was resolved upon to be done for the peace and weal of his People, establishing many pro∣fitable Laws for the posterity; after this time Em∣bassadors came from England and France unto him.

Henry the sixth, King of England, a soft facile Prince and more fit to obey than command, having restored in blood, and allowed the descent of Richard Plantagenet Duke of York, the Duke under pre∣tence and countenance of reforming the State, and removing of bad Counsellors from the Court (the umbrage of all Rebellions) by one Jack Cade an Irish, a bold man, and who had a Spirit which did not cor∣respond with his low condition, who feigned himself to be a Cousin of his, of the House of Mortimer, and other his Instruments, raised a Rebellion; which began amongst the Kentish-men, and was after con∣tinued by his Confederacy with the Duke of Norfolk, Earls of Warwick, Salisbury, Devon, and others;

and notwithstanding he had sworn fealty to King Henry at Blackheath, again openly took arms gainst him at St. Albans; where in pitched field Edmond Duke of Somerset, his greatest Competitor, and who had been preferred to his place in the Regency of France, was killed, the King wounded, taken and committed to the Tower of London. At a Parlia∣ment after, the Duke is made Protector of the King∣dom: at another Parliament he maketh claim for the Crown as in his own Right, laying down thus his Title. The Son of Ann Mortimer, Daughter and Heir to Roger Mortimer, Earl of March, Son and Heir of Philip, the Daughter and sole Heir of Lionel Duke of Clarence, the third Son of King Edward the Third, and elder Brother to John of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, is to be preferred by very good right in Succession of the Crown, before the Children of John of Gaunt the fourth Son of the said Edward the Third; but Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York, is come of Philip, the Daughter and sole Heir of Lionel, Third Son to King Edward the Third, then to be preferred to the Children of the fourth Son, who was John of Gaunt, and so to Henry the Fourth the Usur∣per his Son, to Henry stiling himself Henry the Fifth his Son, and Henry the Sixth now wrongfully calling himself King of England. This Parliament chosen to the Duke of Yorks own mind, at first various, at last unanimously enacted, that Henry during his life should retain the Name and Honour of a King, but that the Duke of York should be continued Protector of the Country, and be declared Heir apparent, and Successor of the Crown after the death of Henry; Margaret the Queen, Daughter to Rheny King of Sicily, more couragious than her Husband, disclaim∣eth the Parliamentary Authority, and this Agreement of her King with the Duke of York, as a matter done

to the prejudice of her Son, and against the Laws of Nations, which admit not of a forced Contract, and done by a Prisoner.

The Crown of England hanging at this point, the Queen to her defence imploring the aid and assistance of her best, greatest Friends and Allies, sendeth Em∣bassadors to King James. These remembring the duties one King oweth to another against Rebels, and the Usurpers of their Crowns, the corresponden∣cy and amity of King Henry with King James during his posterity, expostulating the cruelty of the Rebels against Edmond the late Duke of Somerset, Uncle to King James, slain by them in defence of his Prince, promise in their Kings Name, Queens and their Sons, with the approbation of the Noble-men of their Par∣ty, to restore to the Kings of Scotland, the Lands of Northumberland, Cumberland and Bishoprick of Durham, after the manner the Kings of Scotland in former times had held these Territories of the Kings of England: so he would raise an Army, and advance to their aid and supply.

The Duke of York sent hither also his Embassa∣dors, giving in many complaints against King Hen∣ry; he had oppressed the people with taxations, and all kinds of exactations; he had preferred to places of State and Government new men, by whose coun∣sel and his Queen, he governed only; he despised the old Nobility, he had lost Normandy and Gascony, as France had been lost by him, England was likely to run the same danger. They could not longer suffer his dull sluggishness, and his Wifes exorbitant pride; he was courageless in War, and base in Peace. For the Duke of York, if Justice did not warrant his Claim, except his Descent were undisputable, and his Title without all exception, he would not desire the possession nor succession of the Crown. King

James should remember, it was King Henry who en∣tertained the late Dissentions and civil Discords of Scotland; he supported the banished Scots in England; and after they had much enlarged their discourse with reasons of a just War against King Henry, if King James will arise in arms against him, and assist them, They promise to restore and render all the Forts and places of importance taken in the old Wars from the Kingdom of Scotland, to him and his Successors. King James answered the English Embassadors, That he was not ignorant of the State of their Kingdom, neither to whom the Crown did appertain, but that he would not take upon him to be Umpire of their strife; for the raising an Army, he would think upon it, though he had small assurance for the performance of their promised conditions: he had long projected the recovering of the lost For∣tresses of Scotland, in their hands, and now he would try whom he might trust. The Embassadors dis∣missed, the King raised an Army, but left to the Di∣vination of the Posterity, which of the Parties he was to side. The English and French Writers affirm he was to aid King Henry, and revenge the death of the Duke of Somerset his Mothers Brother, the Sco∣tish to assist the Duke of York, and that by a coun∣terfeit Legate from the Pope after he had been upon his March, he was moved to return. It seemeth per∣suaded by the French King (the ancient Confede∣rate of Scotland, and who for that end had sent his Embassador) to keep the English within their own Country, and disable them in their Conquest of France, he intended upon the advantage of this Ci∣vil discord to make a rode in England, as the French made an Algarad by Sea upon Kent.

The Kings Army being gathered, that it should not loyter in idleness, attending greater intelligence from

the event of the English Factions, having passed the Tweed, invadeth the Town of Roxburgh, which with little travel is taken and equalled with the Ground; the Castle a strong Fortress is besieged. Whilst the King here passeth the time, inviting it more by cour∣tesies and blandishments, than Amunition and War∣like Engines to be rendred to him, Commissioners come from the Duke of York, requiring him to leave his Siege, and contain himself within his own King∣dom, unless he would run the hazard to engage himself in a War against the whole Body of the King∣dom of England; they give him thanks for his for∣wardness to their supply; all things succeeding af∣ter their desires now, and as they could have wished, they request him to return home; when their necessi∣ty required his aid, they would implore it, and not prove forgetful for what he should do towards him. King James asked the Commissioners, if the Duke of York and his Associates had sent any direction con∣cerning the keeping of their promises to him, when he should appear with an Army; They assuring him they had no such Commission; I (answered the King) before their Embassie came, had resolved to take in and throw down this Castle builded upon my bounds, and being by no benefit obliged to any of your Factions, will not for words leave off what I am about by Arms to perform. The Commissioners de∣parting the King caused apply his Battery against the Castle, which couragiously defended it self, and hold∣ing good beyond expectation bred an opinion that Famine would be the only Engine to make it ren∣der.

The Kings Army daily at this Siege encreased, and amongst all the Companies none were more for∣ward and prompt to discharge their duties in this Service, then those of the late League with the Earl

of Dowglass; above others the Earl of Ross, to testifie his remembrance of the Kings clemency in his behalf, with a great company of his Irish came to the Camp, men only fit for tumultuous fights and spoil. Alexander Earl of Huntley coming, the King with the Earl of Anguss would take a view of the Trenches, and as to welcome a man, whose presence seemed to presage good Fortune, caused discharge a pale of Ordinance together; but his coming to this place was as fatal, as at Sterlin prosperous; For at this Salve, by the slices of an over-charged piece or wedge, the King, his Thigh-bone broken, was stri∣ken immediately dead, and the Earl of Anguss was sore bruised: This misfortune happened the third of August, the Twenty ninth, or as others, the Thirti∣eth of the Kings life: of his Raign Twenty four, the year One thousand four hundred sixty.

Who will take a fair view of this Prince, shall find him to have been endowed with what conditi∣ons and qualities are to be desired or wished in a Mo∣narch, both for mind and body, of an excellent fea∣ture and pleasant aspect, astrong vigorous complex∣ion, given to all Knightly exercises: He is said to have had a broad red spot upon one of his cheeks, from which by his Country-men he was named James with the fiery face, which would make Phy∣siognomists conceive, he was of an hot, active, vio∣lent disposition, and one who had more need of re∣straint than encouragement in all difficulties; yet in his actions we find him temperate, stayed, and of a well setled humor, proceeding upon sound grounds, and after mature deliberation; being much given to follow the advice and counsel of grave men about him; He was upright, sincere, affable, courteous, loving to his Domesticks, human towards his Ene∣mies, gracious and benign to all men, a lover of Ju∣stice

liberal, but without oppression of his loyal Sub∣jects; wise, in adversity industrious and diligent, po∣litick in affairs of State; having always raised up one Faction to relieve him from the hazard and burthen of another, and expose the Faction he most feared to the nearest hazard: He was wisely diffident, and put on a judicial distrust, often to be governed as oc∣casions should vary, and could dissimulate according to the fashions and changes of the time: He seemeth to have been indifferent in keeping his Favorites, and that he could ever as well transfer his fancy, as he had setled his affection; For like the Sun he would make a round, and not always shine upon the Horizon.

The death of the two Earls of Dowglass were fa∣tal to him; and though he was innocent of the first, the second chanced deservedly in his hand; Cou∣ragious Princes are not to be provoked by any Sub∣ject how great soever: Confederations and Leagues are fearful attempts against Soveraignty, and for the most part end with the ruine of their Authors: The extirpation of the Earls of Dowglass in the person of James (a Churchman) proceeded rather from his own stubbornness, than any male-talent the King had against him. In all Nations it is observed, that there are some Families fatal to the ruine of their Common-wealths, and some persons fatal to the ruine of the Houses and Race of which they are descended: Since in Kingdoms some have no compassion of their Prince, nor the loss of his Honour, a Prince should not much regret their loss, nor the ruine of their persons and Estates: His great clemency appeared in this, That the heads taken away of that long Re∣bellion, he followed no particular revenge upon their followers, not only granting Pardons, but for∣getting the offences; knowing it was better to heal and cure the faulty and sick members of a State, than

to abolish and cut them away; and more valour for a Prince to overcome his own passions and just wrath, than to vanquish and subdue his proudest enemies; yet was not his clemency a soft weakness, it being no less cruelty to forgive all, than to spare none, but an order and discretion in Justice, temperate with severity towards some more than towards others; ac∣cording to their demerits: He was very sensible of the afflictions of such as was distressed, as witness the Countesses of Dowglass and Ross: His life having set in the Orient of his Age and hopes, he deserveth in the Records of Memory and Fame, a place amongst the best but unfortunate Princes.

He had Issue of his Queen, James who succeeded, Alexander Duke of Albany, John Earl of Mar, Mar∣garet Countess of Arran by the Boyd, and after La∣dy Hamilton-Cecily. He was buried with all Fune∣ral-pomp, within the Monastery of Holyrood-house at Edenburgh.

Notes

• * 1.1

  1445
• * 1.2

  1447
• * 1.3

  1452