THE HISTORY OF THE KINGDOM OF Scotland.  
Containing an Account of the Original of that Nation, and of the most Remarkable Transactions and Revolutions during the Reigns of Seventy Two Kings and Queens, to the Seventh Year of King William III.  
Comprehending variety of State Intrigues, strange Accidents, Prodigies, and other memorable Occurrences.  
With a List of the present Nobility of that Kingdom.  
By R. B  
LONDON, Printed for Nath. Crouch at the Bell in the Poultry. near Cheapside 1696.   


SPEREINS PERGO  
Ex libris Michaelis Tomkinson.  
Franche Hall WORCESTERSHIRE.    


Dysou Perrius  
Charles Willtam  
perenue: suh: sole: nibil    

 portrait of King James the 6th 
King James the sixth of Scotland And First of England    

TO THE READER.  
TWO Consideratious induced me to draw up this brief Collection; First I have not observed any thing already extant of this Nature in so small a Volume, notwithstanding the Transactions, Revolutions and Accidents have been as remarkable in this Kingdom as it may be in any other in Europe; so that they must needs be surprising to most Readers, who can hardly Imagine that such strange actions should be Performed in our Neighbour Nations and we have little Notice or Account thereof in any of our Modern Histories. The Second Consideration was, that having already published a Book of the same value of the Kings of England, and two or three other little Tracts of the most considerable Occurrences and Rarities in that country, I could not but think it pleasant, to give some particular account of what has happened in former Ages in the Kingdom of Scotland, wherein I aim at plainness and brevity, yet have omitted nothing material, to far as it was possible to reduce so many notable Passages into so small a compass, which I doubt not but you will acknowledge upon peruseing thereof.   

THE HISTORY OF THE Kingdom of SCOTLAND.  
THe Scots (as well as other Nations) esteeming it glorious to derive themselves from far-fetched Antiquity, affirm, their Original Descent to be from the Greeks, and Egyptians; and their ancient Historians relate that a noble Greek called Gathelus (the son of Cecrops who built the City of Athens, others say, the sen of Argus the 4th King of the Argives) commiting divers outrages in Macedonia and Achaia, was often severely reprehended by his Father; but the young man impatient of reproof, and continuing his irregularities, was banished. In his Exile, consorting with several stout youths of the same humour, they went all into Egypt, and were entertained by Pharaoh Orus than King of that Country, employing them under Moses the Captain General against the Ethiopians who had invaded Egypt as far as Memphis; Gathelus marched under Moses, who (as Josephus reporteth) was chosen Commander in chief by the voice of an Oracle, and the Ethiopians received a great overthrow, with the loss of Saba their principal City in the Isle of Merot. In this encounter as well as many others, Gathelus gave such proof of his conduct and courage, that he became much in favour with Pharaoh; but Moses was rather envied than honoured for his valour, the King fearing that the Israelites increasing so extremely, might one day challenge the government of he Kingdom; whereupon Moses went into the land of Midian; But to Gathelus and his followers the City of Thebes was given, which had been formerly the Israelites and to add to his honour Pharaoh gave him his daughter in marriage, whose name you must know was Scota, of whose Posterity it seems came the Scoti, or the Nation of Scots, and the land where they inhabited was called Scotia or Scotland.  
Gathelus thus advanced, lived all the days of his Father-in-law-in great splendour, but after the third Geperation another Pharaoh called Cheucres succeeded, who oppressed the Israelites in Egypt more than his Predecessors, till Moses by divine appointment returning from Midian declared God's will that he should let go the people, which Pharaoh refusing was horribly plagued, and more severe Judgements threatmed; Gathelus believing the Oracle, resolved to forsake this miserable Country, and providing a great number of Ships, he with Wife and Children, and a multitude of Greeks and Egyptians sailed out of the River Nilus in the year of the World 2453. having dwelled in Egypt 39 years; after many dangers at Sea, they first touched upon the Coasts of Barbary from whence being beaten back by the Inhabitants they embarked again, and landed in a part of Spain called Lusitania, and called the place where they went ashore Port Gathale, of this Gathelus, and afterwards by corruption Portugal, as at this day; when the Spaniards understood their Arrival, they came against them with strong Forces, but after a bloody Fight were routed by Gathelus, which much encouraged him and his followers; soon after it was agreed that they should continued there, and Gathlus built a City called Mundus and after Bacchara; but the Spaniards perceiving these strangers mightily increase, designed to have forced them away, yet doubting their strength, they proposed to Gathelus to temove to the North side of Spain, now called Galicia, as being thinly peopled; which he willingly accepted and sacrificing publicly to his Gods for his good success, departed thither with all his People, and making a League with the Natives, built a City called Brigantia, now Gomposteila; Being thus settled, Gathelus was called King, and ordrined good Laws, and because he would have all his followers under one Government he commanded they should be called Scotsmen, from his wife Scota.  
In process of time growing very populous; the Spaniards resolved to root them out, but after a sharp Fight, the Scots remained Conquerors, upon which a peace followed, and it was agreed they should live after their own Laws, and not be disturbed; Gathelus thus established, (saith our Historia●) sat upon his Marble Stone in Brigantia, administering justice to his people; this stone was like a chair, and attended with such a fatal destiny that the Scots say wherever it should be found their Nation should Reign, and therefore it was removed from Spain to Ireland, and than to Scotland, all their Kings being Crowned therein. When Gathelus observed that the Country was too little for them, resolving to maintain the League inviolate with Spain, and understanding there was an Island North of Spain meanly inhabited, he sent his two sons Hyberus and Himericus with a great Navy, and a strong Army, who landed at Dundal in that Country, and called it Hybernia from the eldest son's name now Ireland; being arrived they found the Inhabitants to be few, and simple, living only on Milk, Herbs, and other Fruits growing naturally; hereupon they treated them gently, and easily persuaded them to submit and join in friendship.  
Hyberus having taught them tillage and husbandry, returned into Spain, and succeeded his Father Gathelus, subduing more of that Country, the succession continuing in his Posterity a long while after. Himericus was left by his brother to govern Ireland; ruling both the Scots and Irish, but in time great differences arose, and much blood was shed, till at length by assistance from Spain the Irish were subdued, and the Scots settled there, who crowned one Brechus of the Blood royal King, being the first that Reigned over Scotchmen in Ireland; to him Succeeded others, and at length one Rothsay, who observing Ireland to be too narrow he transported a great number into the Isles formerly called Hebrides, now the Western Isles, and gave his name to that which he first possessed; from the Isles they went over all that Country, which they than named Scotland, continuing many years in great Glory under good Laws and Governors.  
At length the Picts a people of Germany, (others say of Scythia) so called from painting themselves, or from their coloured Garments, landed in Scotland, and got strong footing therein, building divers Fort; and Castles, and forcing the Scots to let them have women for procreation; upon which a League was made the land being divided betwixt them and it was agreed, that if at any time the Succession in the Kingdom of the Picts were doubtful, than one born of a Scotish woman should be admitted to the Throne: this Alliance was disliked by the Britain's, who fearing they might be too strong endeavoured to foment differences, persuading the Picts to join with them, as being more Civilised and a better Country, enforcing it with an old prophecy, That the Scots should one day Traitorously destroy the whole race of the Picts out of their Country; whereby they so prevailed that the Picts joined with the Britain's against the Scots, but upon the point of Battle the Pictish women came into the army with their Children, with Cries and Lamentations persuading them not to defile themselves with unnatural murder, since they were resolved to die with their Children, rather than their husbands, Fathers, Brethrens, and Kindred should thus destroy each other.  
The Nobles and Commanders considering the reasonableness of their complaints made an agreement with Fergus K. of Scots, and turned their joint Forces on the Britain's, slaughtering Coilus the British King, with his whole Army, and entering into a League Offensive and defensive, they miserably tormented the poor Britain's for many years till they were vanquished by the Conquering Saxons.  
After the death of Fergus several Pictish and Scotish Kings Reigned in that Country, and among them Ederus, in whose fourth year Julius Caesar invaded Britain; upon which Cassibilane than King sent for aid to the Scots and Picts, and was promised it from both; but Caesar having vanquished the Britain's, sent to the Scots to submit, who answered, that they were resolved rather to loose their lives than liberties, as if their were occasion he should experience. Ewyn the son of Ederus succeeded, who gave up himself to debauchery and made divers immodest and filthy laws to encourage his Subjects therein as, That they might marry as many Wives as they could maintain, four, six, or ten, as they pleased; That poor men's Wives ought to be common to the Lords of Manors, who likewise had the privilege to have the Maidenhead of every Bride on the Wedding night; which last act was so pleasing to the lustful Nobility that it continued many years, though the former were soon abolished.  
Ewin spending all his time among Harlots, and abusing his Nobles, by imprisoning some, and murdering others, the more freely to enjoy their Wives & Daughters, they thereupon raised an Army, sencountred, him in the Field, and took him Prisoner, his friends and partakers not offering to strike one stroke in his defence; they than committed him to perpetual imprisonment, but the same night he was strangled in his Chamber, and Meterlanus the Brother of Ederus succeeded, in whose Reign our Saviour was born; After, this Claudius the Roman Emperor came into Britain and failing to the Isles of Orkny took that King Prisoner, whereupon Caratake K. of Scots; and the King of the Picts joined with the Britain's for their common Defence, and a Battle was fought wherein neither prevailed; yet afterwards the Romans obtained a great Victory, and the people of Gallaway submitted to them; and the greatest part of the Kingdom.  
Corbred succeeded Caratake, and after him Dardan for his stature surnamed the Great, of whom the Nobility had Conceived a good opinion for his Worthy Acts in his Predecessors days, and chose him in the minority of Corbreds' three sons, but having attained the Crown he grew outrageous in Lust, Covetousness and Cruelty, and likewise designed to out of the three young Princes whereupon they brought him out before the multitude, and openly beheaded him; Corbreds Eldest son Galled Reigned next, in whose time the Famous Voadicia was slain by the Romans, and all her Britain's almost cut of, after which Agricola the Roman General invaded Scotland, and beaten the Picts and Scots; yet at length the Romans submitted themselves as vanquished, and accepted the conditions of Peace prescribed by their Enemies, leaving all the Garrisons and Forts they had in the Country.  
After thirty 5 years' Reign Lugtak succeeded Galled his Father, he was abhorred of all men for his detestable cruelty and Lust, ravishing not only his Aunt, Niece, and Sister, but his own Daughter; so that after two years intending to put to death those who in an assembly at Dunstasage blamed his misgovernment, he was there murdered among the people, with abundance of his partakers. Nogal the Nephew of Galled succeeded, who was at first well beloved of his Subjects, and obtained many notable Victories against the Romans, who again invaded the Country; upon which he grew so proud, that he fell into the same sensualities as his Predecessors; and understanding there was a Conspiracy against him, he fled into a Wood at Midnight with only two servants, of which the Conspirators having notice the next morning they pursued him with great fury, and seizing him, cut of his head, which they set upon a pole and carried about in derision.  
Conarus his son ascended the Throne, who was thought to have been in the Treason against his Father, and coming to the Crown by wicked means, it could not be expected he should rule well, for he soon discovered his debauched humour, wherein he used such excess that it brought him into great necessity, whereupon calling an Assembly of his Lords, he demanded a Subsidy, alleging, that the rents of the Crown were not sufficient to mantain his Royal Dignity, and therefore required Contribution from his Subjects; the nobles were startled at his demand, resolving to deny him, and next morning when they were again set in the Council Chamber, one of them spoke to this purpose; That since he had no Wars wherewith to spend his Treasure it might seem strange why he should demand a Tax to maxtain his household, but that it might not indeed be much wondered at, since he preferred only mean Persons who studied all ways to oppress his Subjects, and enrich themselves; but (saith he) this shall be amended ere long, and they shall be advanced yet higher, even to a fair pair of Gallows, and end their lives with shame, as many others have done before them who have thus ruined the people; neither is it sit that a Person who so little understands his Office, should be King over us, who ought rather to be cofined to a Chamber, and some worthy Person by common consent chosen to govern the Kingdom. The King at this insolent speech started up, and loudly called them Traitors, adding, that if they durst meddle with his Person they should dearly repent it. Yet the Conspirators seized and committed him prisoner, executing several of his Officers and Ministers, and choosing Argadus, one of their number, Govenour of the Realm, during the life of Conarus.  
Ethodius Nephew to King Mogal succeeded, who together with the Picts made sharp war upon the Britain's, ravaging Westmoreland and Kendal with Fire and Sword; he delightd in Hunting and Music, & was especially taken with one Musician, born in the Western Isles, by whom, after he had reigned thirty four years, he was murdered one night in his Chamber, the Murderer alleging he did this wicked Act in revenge for some of his Friends and Kinsmen, whom the King had caused to be executed in Argile; that he had designed it long before, and was now ready to receive whatsoever torment they would adjudge him to, for sure I am (saith he) that how terrible soever my execution be I shall feel no pain, but rej you even to the very midst of my 〈◊〉 since I have so notubly and fully revenged the death of my Friends; he was ordered to be dra●n in pieces with horses, and Satrahel the brother of Ethodius succeeded, though be left a son behind him whom Satrahel would have put to death, with many of his wealth subjects, thereby to enjoy their Estates, but before he had reigned four years he was strangled by his own servants, to whom Donald his brother was Successor, who was beloved of his Subjects, and died peaceably after twenty one years reign.  
Ethodius the second son of Ethodius reigned after him who was so very foolish and weak, that the Government was committed to divers Noblemen, yet was he extreme covetous, and was slain by his guards in his sixteenth year; than his son Athirco was advanced to the Crown, who slighting his Nobility, and ravishing two Daughters of Natholicus a Nobleman of Argile, he with the rest conspired against him, who suspecting those about him fled privately to the Sea side, and went into a boat designing to pass into the Isles, but being driven back by contrary winds chose rather to hill himself than fall into the hands of his Enemies; after whose death Natholicus was proclaimed King, and the line of Athirco laid aside, though he had three Sons, and a Brother called Dorus who escaped into Pictland in beggar's habit; to settle himself, he was very kind to the Lords and people, endeavouring to appease all quarrels and discontents, but Dorus after a while sending Letters by a Pictish woman to some Scottish Lords of himself and his Nephews, she was surprised by Natholicus, and being put in a sack was thrown into the Sea, which act being declared abroad, they and their Associates procured the people to rebel, of which Natholicus being informed, he priutely retired into Marra, land, and sent a trusty servant to a Witch at Colmkill to know the fortune of this War, who answered, That the King should in a little time be murdered, not by his open Enemies but by the hands of his familiar Friends in whom he put much trust; the Messenger earnestly inquired by whose hands, even by thine (saith she) as it will plainly appear in a few days; the Gentleman called her old Witch, saying that he hoped to see her burnt before he should commit so villainous a de●● and made haste to tell the King; but as he went, he began to consider, that if he should declare the truth, the King might be suspicious of him, and put him to death; if he kept it secret some other might reveal it, and he be in danger, so to make all sure, coming to the King, he led him into a private room, and all others being withdrawn, he suddenly struck the King to the heart with his Dagger, His death being known, the Nobles resolved to sand for the sons of Athirco and employed this person to fetch them; who being come, Finloch the eldest was Crowned, who reigned very Justly, for ten years, but than going to suppress the Rebellion of Donald of the Isles, he was Treacherously murdered by two villains employed by him, to whom succeeded his younger brother Donald, who was resolved to be revenged of the Traitor, but he suddenly setting upon the King, flew him, and above three thousand more, and having got so great a victory he took upon him to be King, by the name of Donald of the Isles, but being conscious of his Usurpation, he never went abroad without a Guard, yet was killed one night by Cratchilut the son of King Findock who succeeded him, after whom reigned Fingomarc his brother's son, than Romacus, and Angusianus who was slain in battle by the Picts; after him Fethelmacus his Cousin, who was killed by two Pictish Traitors as he lay sleeping; who being taken were torn asunder with wild Horses. Eugenius his son came next to the Crown, who was killed in a fight with the Romans in Conjunction with the Picts and Britain's, who resolved to root out the Scottish Nation and made a Law that they should resign all their Lands to the Britain's and Picts, and forsake the Country; and accordingly the Scots were banished their Native Land, many going into Ireland, and other Countries; and to preserve peace between the Picts and Britain's, the Romans built a great Wall from the East Sea to the West, with a strict order, That if any Pict should pass that wall into Britain without leave, he should certainly die. Hitherto we have followed the Scottish Historians, though it is questioned whether there were such a succession of Kings; what follows is allowed to be of more Certainty and Authority, and therefore we shall be more particular in the Reigns of the succeeding Kings. I. It is generally believed that in the year of our Lord 424. the Scots coming in great numbers out of Ireland settled in Scotland under Fergus their King, who was Crowned in the Marble Chair at Argile, and the Picts having broken their League with the Romans, they joined with the Scots against them, between whom a great Battle was fought, so that the River Carron was filled with dead bodies, and the water looked like blood; but while the victory remained doubtful there fell so violent a storm of Hail and Rain, that they could not see each other, but were forced to part; and having lost so many on each side, the Romans under Victorinus their General marched back into Britain, and the Scots and Picts broke up their Camp; after which they again Assemble to hinder the Britain's from building the wall, killing the Labourers and Soldiers, and entering the British borders, ferched thence great spoils, but the Romans resolving to defend their Confederates, fought a terrible battle under Maximin, wherein the Pictish King, and Fergus King of Scotland were both slain; this overthrow dismayed the Scots, fearing they should be now utterly expelled their Country, for the Romans pursued their victory with great destruction, and Maximin was counselled to root out both Nations but being satisfied with his success, he retired to York, where hearing of the disturbances at Rome, he resolved to usurp the Crown of Britain, and in order thereto Married one of the Daughters of Dionethus a Prince of Wales.  
II. Mean time the Scottish Lords made Eugenius the 2d of that name son of Fergus King, and Maximin, was content to make peace with him, having designed no lesle than the Government of the whole Roman Empire; and taking all the British Youths with him sailed into France, causing himself to be proclaimed Emperor, leaving behind Dionethus his Father and only one Roman Legion who continued not long ere they were sent for by Etius Lieutenant to the Emperor Valentinian, whom they instantly obeyed, though they had Sworn Allegiance just before to Maximin; the Britain's thus deprived of defence the Scots and Picts fall upon them with Fire & Sword, retaking all places in their own Country which had been Garrisoned by the Romans, and entering Cumberland destroyed most part of Yorkshire in this distress the Britain's sending to Valentanian he ordered Gallio to assist them, who pursued their Enemies, and repaired the Wall, which was Eight Foot broad, and Twelve high, with Towers in divers place, giving directions to the Britain's how to defend themselves, and than returned into France; Gallio was not sooner gone, but the Picts resolved again to invade the Britain's and Persuaded Eugenius to join with them, and so entering Britain they soon overthrew the Wall, and in multitudes entered, beating down the Britain's without resistance, who again apply themselves to the Roman Lieutenant in Gallia, but were answered That they must make the best defence they could, for he had no Forces to spa●e, so that their Enemies miserably over-ran their Country as far as the River Humber, in this woeful distress they sent to Etius the Roman Lieutenant in Gallia, who answered that their Calamitys did much disturb him, but the present invasions upon the Empire by several Nations did at present hinder him from sending them any relief, advising them to make the best resistance they could, and when the Empire was settled they should be fully revenged of all their injuters: the same time the Britain's having sent Ambassadors to the Scots to Treat of Peace, they returned answer, That unless the Britain's wholly submit themselves, and become their Subjects they would make no Peace; which the Britain's took in such indignation that they must cred up all their Forces possible, and met the Scots in the Field, but were beaten with the loss of Fifteen Thousand, and Four Thousand Scots and Picts; after which they were forced to sue again for peace, which was granted upon these hard Conditions, That the Britain's should upon no account receive any aid from Rome, nor suffer any Enemy of the Scots or Picts to pass through their Country; that they should enter into no League with any City or Nation without their consent, and should be ready to assist the Scots upon all occasions; that all Britain as far as Hull or Humber. should be resigned wholly to the Scots; that as a Trophy of Conquest they should pay the Scots sixty Thousand Pounds and lastly, that they should deliver an hundred Hostages for performing these Conditions; which Articles being severe, were kept only till the Britain's had opportunity to break them, which was soon after; for Eugenius having reigned 30 years, and much enlarged the Scottish Dominions, died.  
III. Dongard succeeded, in 470. who followed his brother's example in preserving Justice and Peace among his Subjects; in whose reign the Britain's weary of their servitude, by the persuasion of Conarus, resolved to free themselves, and sent into Armorica, now Britain in France, for aid, which Androntus King thereof soon agreed to, sending his son Constantine with considerable Forces, who landing at Totnes in Devonshire, be was received with great Joy, and proclaimed King of Britain, who assured them he would to the utmost of his power endeavour to regain their freedoms; which so encouraged them that they quickly assembled all able to bear Arms, and marched against the Picts and Scots, and a bloody battle was fought, sixteen thousand Britain's being killed, and thirteen Thousand Scots with Dongard, who was slain by Constantine, Fight Valiant  in the midst of his Troops; upon which the English marched southward and the Ecots with their dead King, home.  
iv Constantine another brother of Eugenius, was Crowned King after him, a Pr. altogether unlike his worthy predecessors, giving himself up to lust and wantonness, deflowering Virgins and ravishing Wives, a great favourer of Backbiters and Slanderers, and never pleased but in the Company of Buffoons and Jesters; and though of the same name with the British King, yet of different qualities, one studying to promote the good of his People, the other minding nothing but Lasciviousness and sensuality; He granted peace to the Britain's without ask, releasing the tribute and secretly delivering up divers Castles upon the River Humber into their hands; these things enraged the Nobility and People against him, so that they resolved to make an Insurrection, but by the persuasion of Dongal a discreet Nobleman of Gallaway, they were persuaded to suffer patienly his disorderly Government; the Picts observing the ill conduct of the Scotch King, were afraid that if the K. of Britain should endeavour to revenge the injuries received from them, they were not able to resist him singly and were like to have small assistance from the Scots, sent three Pictith Villains into Britain who treacherously flew tha● King; but being taken they were Cast into a mighty fire, and Burut to Asher, neither did Constantine of Scotland long survive, for haing ravished the Daughter of a Nobleman of the Isles, he was by him murdered in 481.  
V After him Dougal or Congal his Nephew, Son of his Brother Dongal was proclaimed King, who endeavoured to reform a●uses, In his time Constantinus the Eldest Son of Condartixt was taken out of an Abbey, wherein he was a Monk, & advanced to the Kingdom of Britain, but being unfit to govern, the ordering of all was committed to Vortigern, who renewing the League with the Picts and Scots, choosing a Guard to the King's Person out of them, but soon after he procured Constantinus to be murdered by some of them, and than put them all to Death, as well the innocent as guilty, at which the Scotey and Pictish Kings were so enraged that they made several inroads upon the British borders, upon which Votigern raised a great Army who were commanded by Gitellus Prince of Wales took 500 of these Borderers, and hanged them up; the Scots and Picts marched toward them with strong Forces, where a battle was fought, wherein there were slain of the Britain's (saith the Scotch Historian) twenty Thousand, and of the Scots four Thousand. This loss discouraged the Britain's, so that Vortigern designed to have left the Kingdom.  
But upon Consultation with some British Lords, it was concluded to sand for secure from Germany, and Hengist and Horsus two Saxon Princes came over with Ten Thousand Soldiers, and were received joyfully by Vortigern and the Britain's; and were not sooner refreshed 〈◊〉 they fell upon the Scots before they knew of their arrival, whereupon a multitude of them were slain; divers other Victories they obtained for the Britain's, and great numbers of Saxons daily arriving, the Britain's suspected they designed upon their Liberties which happened accordingly; for after a while Hengist having notice that Aurclius Ambrose, and Uter Pendragen the sons of Constantine, designed to bring abundance of Britain's and French from Britain to claim the Crown as lawfully descended from their Father, he with the assistance of Vortigern got possession of York, and caused divers of the Nobles and Gentry to be slain, under pretence they would have betrayed several Forts and Castles to the Scots, which he get into his own hands; the Brittins to prevent these growing mischiefs, deposed Vortigern, placing his son Vortimer in his stead, and sent Ambassadors to the Scots and Picts, requiring their assistance against the cruel oppressions of the Saxons who endeavoured to usurp the Government and utterly ●o extinguish the Faith of Christ among them; earnestly desiring their aid against these their common Enemy's, who were called into the Realm, by the private ●ntrivance of Vortigern to suppress not only the Scots and Picts, but the Britain's themselves, whom by his Tyranny he was coscious he had given cause to defend themselves against him.  
Dongal King of Scots having heard their Message, replied, That he was sorry to understand into what danger the miserable Christians of Britain were fallen, and if he had no other motive to join with them against the Saxons, yet the delivering that Island from such a Paganish Generation was to him a sufficient cause, who not only used the heathenish Ceremonies of their false Religion by sacrificing to their hellish Gods, even in the presence, and to he dishonour, and offence of Christians, but likewise sought to root out the Faith of our Blessed Saviour Christ in all places where they had power, he therefore promised his uttermost assistance for driving them out of Britain; the same answer the Ambassadors received of the King of Picts, and accordingly sending an Army into Northumberland, they obtained a great Victory against the Saxons commanded by Occa the son of Hengist, and Vortimer at the same time vanquished them in Kent, so that they all soon fled out of the Country back into Saxony.  
King Vortimer was poisoned by the Treachery of his Stepmother Roxana, and Vertigern again, Reinthroned, upon taking a Solemn Oath never to assist the Saxons, nor receive any Foreign Nation into the Kingdom; he administered Justice to his Subjects, and was exceedingly beloved, and renewed the League with the Scots and Picts; yet Hengist again returned, and by force or policy possessed himself of most part of the Land, so that the greatest number of the Britain's were forced to retire into Wales with King Vorrigern, where they remained till Aurelius Ambrose and Uter arrived from Britain in France, who besieging him in a Castle at length burned it, with the King and his Queen Roxana as they say, Merlin the soothsayer had prophesied who was supposed to have been begotten by an evil Spirit called an Incubus, that in the shape of men, was thought to accompany with Women.  
In this place Hector Boetius relates some strange illusions of Spirits, which happened, and may be worth, rela●ng. A Scoteish Ship departing out of the Frith about midsummer toward Flanders, there arose so extraordinary a Tempest as astonished the Mariners as being unusu● that time of the year; the Storm still increasing, so ●hat all despaired of safety; a Woman in the hold of ●he Ship called to the Seamen, beseeching them to throw ●er into the Sea, whereby they should be all secured ●om danger, adding that she had been a long time conversant with an unclean Spirit, which haunted her in ●he shape of a man, and was at that instant using his filthy pleasure with her after the manner of men; there happened to be a Priest in the Ship, who going down and ●●nding her a wretched desperate Person, and woefully ●menting her miserable condition, he gave her such wholesome counsels that she at length seemed throughly ●enitent for her wickedness, upon which there issued out ●f the Ship a black stinking Cloud, that with a terrible ●●ise smoke, and flame fell into the Sea; after which ●he Tempest ceased, and the Ship arrived in safety to ●er Haven.  
The same Author adds that a young man near Aberdeen ●ing a very handsome Person, made complaint to the Bishop of the Diocese, that a Spirit haunted him in the ●hape of a Woman, exteam beautiful who would in the ●ight come into his Chamber, and use pleasant enticements to allure him to enjoy her and that he could not 〈◊〉 freed from her by any means; the Bishop advised ●●m to remove to some other Country, and apply himself to fasting and Prayer; which he perorming was de●ered from any further Disquiet or Temptation.  
〈◊〉 adds this third relation that in the Country of March, young Gentlewoman of excellent beauty, Daughter of Nobleman, having refused divers wealth Matches, she 〈◊〉 length proved with Child; and being severely charged ●he● parents to discover the Father, she confessed, that young man kept her company every night, and some●●es in the day, but whence he came, or how he went away she knew not; her Parents giving no credit to her words, kept strict watch to found who had dishonoured their Family; about three days after, one of her maids giving notice that the Fornicator was at that instant with her, they enter the Chamber with Torches, and shutting the Doors, found their Daughter in the arms of a foul deformed Monster terrible to behold; among others a Priest was there of an honest conversation, who when all others were affrighted boldly approached, and began to recite the beginning of St. John's Gospel, and coming to these words, Verbum caro factum est, the Word was made Flesh, the evil Spirit fled with a dreadful, roaring noise taking the roof of the Chamber with him, and burning the Hang and covering of the bed, yet was the Gentlewoman preserved, who within three or four days was delivered of a horrid and misshaped Birth, which the Women, to prevent shame to the House, seized and burnt to ashes. Thus much out of Hector Boetius who hath writ these and other credible Relations, as he affirms, to prove that all which hath been told concerning these illusions of Devils and Daemons is not false or feigned.  
Aurelius Ambrose having dispatched Vortigern, resolved to try his fortune against Hengist and the Saxons, and to restore the Christian Religion, concluding a firm League with the Scots and Picts who joining their Forces obtained a great Victory against them, Hengist himself being slain by Aurelius, who afterwards Married the Daughter of the Pictish King. The Britain's thus delivered from the Tyranny of the Saxons enjoyed Peace some years and discovering some Saxon Priests who pretended to be Christians, yet Sacrificed to their Idol Gods, they were burnt according to a Law than in being.  
VI Coranus succeeded his brother Dongal a Just Prince, being himself present in Courts of justice to hear Causes or Hunting in some Forest near where his Judges sat, in his Reign Occa and Pascentius the sons of Hengist hearing of their Father's Death came again into Britain with a strong Army, at which time Aurelius preparing to resist them with the assistance of the Scots, died of a Consumption, and his brother Uter succeeded, who falling in Love with the Wife of Gothlois Duke of Cornwall, he for●ced her to his pleasure and to enjoy her more freely pursued her husband to destroy him, and at length taking him in a Castle whither he was fled, caused him to be executed under Pretence that he had forsaken his Captain in a fight with the Saxons; of this Lady, Uter be●got Arthur the famous Warrior, whom because he had ●no legitimate Son, he ordained should succeed him in the Kingdom, whereat Loath the Pictish King right Heir after Uter to Britain, was so displeased, that he joined with the Saxons against him and a Battle was fought, wherein the Britain's obtained a glorious Victory by the help of St.  the Holy Bishop of Auxerre as the Scottish Writers relate after this manner.  
About Easter both Armies came into the Field, the Saxons and Picts on one side, and the Britain's on the other; many of whom were grown Idolaters by conversing with the Saxons, which St.  understanding, preached so effectually to them in the Camp, that they were again reduced to Christianity, and received the Sacrament from him in Company of the other faithful Christians; when both sides were ready to engage, St.  with all his Priests and Clergy marched in the Frout before the British Army, giving Command that when he and his should cry Hallclujah, the whole Host should answer them with one voice, and carrying the King's Standard before him, upon the approach of the Enemy, he with the Priests cried thrice with a loud voice Hallelujah; which being loudly repeated by the whole Army at once, made such a tremendous Echo in the adjoining hollow Caves and Mountains, that the Saxons amazed at this redoubled noise, and suspecting an other great Body lay in ambush on the Hills, on each side of them, yea doubting that the very Mountains and Hills, yea Heaven itself would fall on their heads, were struck with so dreadful a Consternation, that the● fled with great haste and terror, abundance were drowned in the adjacent River, and the rest dispersed ove● the Country, throwing away their weapons to expedi● their escape. Thus by this Christian Policy (saith ● Author) this Holy man procured a bloudlses Conque● to Uter and his Britain's; who thereupon grew proud, debauched, and careless of their future defence; which abuses of Divine goodness were much lamented by th● good men of those days, denouncing the Wrath of Heaven against them, if they did not reform, which in ● short time came to pass, for Occa again made head, an● gave them a notable overthrow, wherein above Fifte● Thousand Britain's were slain, tho' the Saxons lost the● King Occa; however they chose another Occa, Nephew to the former, King, who turned all his Forces upon L● K. of the Picts, since contrary to his Oath he had assiste● the Britain's in the last Battle, and falling upon a Company of Scots & Picts, cut them of with a Cruel Slaughter, of which news being brought to Conranus and Lo●● they marched toward their Enemies, but being read to give Battle, were so struck with fear of encounteri● such an Army of fierce people, that the Kings perceiving it ordered one to make an Oration for their Encouragement, which put such life into the trembling Scots an● Picts that they declared themselves ready to die at th● feet of their Captains, and to follow their Kings whither soever they would lead them; marching toward th●● Enemies, whom they found ready to receive them, an● that with such rage and violence, that after a huge slaughter on each side, the Scots and Picts were utterly rou●ed; The Scotch King with the remainder of his Arm● hasted to Galloway, and the Pictish to his own Countre●. At which time Uter King of Britain dying, Loath King 〈◊〉 Picts sent to demand the Crown, as having married th● Sister and Heir of Aurelius and Uter but the Brittai● disdaining his Message, proclaimed Arthur the Basta● Son of Uter King, and routed the Saxons in several Ba●●tles, under his valiant conduct.  
Conranus growing old, his Officers oppressed the People, who being discontented and the Nobility joining with them, they conspired against him and his Favourites, especially one Toncet, of mean Birth, who being made Chief Justice or Chancellor, exercised much cruelty, taking the forfeitures of the Penal Statutes, to fill the King's Coffers without regard to Justice or Right; he caused several Rich Merchants to be accused of Treason upon slight Informations, for which they were condemned and executed without legal proof, only to seize their Estates; which so enraged their Friends that they came into the Judgement Hall, and first reproached him with words; and than openly murdered him upon the seat of Justice, flying into the Mountains for safety; and to prevent punishment for one Villainy, contrived to commit a greater, by killing the King as the original of these mischiefs; Donald Governor of Athol in great trust about the King understanding their design assured them of his utmost assistance, and these Outlaws coming secretly to the King's lodgings, were by him conveyed into his Bedchamber, Donald going away assoon as they entered. Conranus perceiving he was betrayed, and that his Enemies were ready to murder him, got out of his Bed, and on his knees besought them to have pity on his Age, and not d●efile their hands in the blood of their Natural Lord and King, since if they had been any way injured it was without his knowledge, but they doubting he should make his escape, deaf to his Entreaties murdered him, Instantly betaking themselves to flaght.  
VII. Eugenius his Nephew the second Son of his Brother Dongal being placed in the marble chair at Argile, was persuaded to avenge the blood of his Uncle for terror to others; Yet he not not only forgave the crime, but took Donald, and the other Murderers into his service, and made them privy Counsellors, which occasioned suspicions that he himself was privy to it, so that the Widow of Conranus with her two Sons Aidan and Reginan doubting their safety fled into Ireland; However Eugenius to get favour with the People, would often sit in Judgement and if he thought any wronged ordered the cause to be heard over again; If a poor man wanted money to manage his cause, he would lend it him out of the Common Treasury, he ordained that no widow should be obliged to go above a mile from her own house, upon any matter of Controversy, Robbers and Thiefs to be severely punished; and lastly he took special care ●●maintain the League with the Picts and Britain's.  
King Arthur had concluded a Peace with the Picts, bu● the Britain's desiring that since he had no Children, he would name his Successor in his life time, he chose Corstantine Son of Cador Duke of Cornwall, causing him to be proclaimed Heir apparent, to the great rejoicing of hi● Subjects; but Mordred son and Heir to Loath King of Pic● counting himself the true Heir, sent to the Brittai● charging them with breach of Faith and Oaths, who Answer, That Arthur their King had done nothing contrary to 〈◊〉 Oath, since the League held not longer than his Father's Life o● according to the duty of a Prince, who tendered the happiness ● his Subjects in providing one of their own Nation to Reign after him, jest after his decease, the Realm should fall into the han● of strangers, which might occasion much Misery and Calamity If therefore the Picts loved their own safety it would be best ● them to keep within their own Dominions, jest by attempting ●gainst others they should have cause to repent it.  
Mordred and his people, being nettled with this answer resolve upon speedy revenge, and persuaded Eugen● to join with him, and both Armies being in sight, 〈◊〉 Bishops of the three Nations endeavoured to procure Peace, which the Britain's would not harken to, so th● a bloody battle was fought near the Humber, where twenty thousand Scots and Picts, and King Mordred, we slain with thirty thousand Britain's and King Arthur, th● rest escaping by slight; the next day the Camp of th● Britain's being ri●●ed, they found Queen Guyamor Arth● Wife, with divert other Ladies and Gentlewomen, wh●● were all made Captives; this dreadful Fight so weakened the three Nations, that for many years they were not able to recover it, before which divers Prodigies appeared, Grass and Herbs were found spotted with Blood; a Calf was brought forth with two heads, an Ewe yeaned a Lamb both male and female, the Sun at noon seemed read like Bloo●d, the Sky at the same time apperaing full of Bright Stars, for two days together; in Wales a Battle was fought between a multitude of Crows and Magpies on one party, and Ravens on the other, with great Slaughter on both sides. After the death of Arthur Constantine was declared King, and to prevent any other from claiming the Crown the Britain's took the Children of Mordred who were brought up by Gaivolaine a British Nobleman their Grandfather in Britain, and cruelly murdered them, running into their Mother's Lap, beseeching her to save their Lives, by whose death the whole Family of Mordred was utterly extinguished. The Saxons hearing of the weak condition of the Britain's, and that their valiant King Arthur was slain, landed great Forces, and soon routed the Britain's, driving them and their King Constantine into Wales, and recovering all the Land formerly held by Hengist which from his name was called England; some writ that Constantine having Reigned some years in Wales, his Wife and Children died, whereupon growing weary of the World he forsook his Kingdom and went privately into Ireland, where applying himself to the relief of the Poor, he was discovered by a Monk, who persuaded him to be one of his Order; that being afterwards sent by the Bishop of the Diocese in to Scotland to instruct the people in the Christian Faith, he there Suffered Martyrdom, and was after Canonised a Saint, many Churches in Scotland being dedicated to his memory  
VIII. Congal his brother succeeded Eugenius, a Prince extreme Devout, especially in worshipping the Cross, which was carried before him, and at his getting of and on his Horse, he with all his Attendants, would kneel down ●nd reverently kiss it; this Cross was of Silver with a Crucisix thereon, and these words Engraven, Christian●rum Gloria, the Glory of Christians; he commanded the Cross to be set upon the tops of Steeples, Towers, and Gates, and forbidden to be graven or painted on the ground jest it should be trod upon; he likewise had the Clergy in extreme honour, and they in requital Proclaimed him a Saint, so that St. Colme an Irish Monk of great Sanctity came over to see him, and to instruct the people in the Christian Faith, bringing Aidan the son of Conranus along with him.  
IX. Kynatel his Brother succeeded him to whom St. Colme went with Aidan, who was appointed by Congal to receive the Government of the Kingdom, if he had lived; they were both received with great kindness by Kynatel, contrary to expectation, who embracing Aidan, bid him be of good Comfort, for he should shortly attain to his Grandfather's Dominions, and have Issue to succeed him to the great happiness of the Scottish Nation; what Spirit of prophecy he spoke by is uncertain, but it is most certain that upon his deathbed he declared, his intent was to have delivered up the Crown to Aidan, as his Right, though he had not time to accomplish it, for he died of a Fever twenty days after hi● Coronation, appointing Aidan to succeed him.  
X. Aidan being Crowned by St. Colme or Columb, endeavoured to preserve Peace, as well among his own people as his Neighbours, till it happened that divers Lord Hunting together, a quarrel arose and many were slain the most guilty, being sought for and arrested by th● King, refused to surrender themselves, beating and abusing the Officers, and than fled to Brudeus King o● Picts, of whom Aidan according to custom demande● them; Brudens pitying the condition of the young Gentlemen, alleged several excuses till at length Aida● was so enraged, that he commanded a party of his people to fetch a great booty of men and Cattles out of th● Pictish Dominions, wherewith they being provoked acted the same in Galloway; at length it came to pitched Field near Donkeld Castle in Monteith, where was great slaughter on both sides, though in the end the Scots got the Victory, yet losing Arthurnus the son of Aidan, they did not much rejoice therein. St. Colm hearing of this breach, came to Aidan reproving him for the same, and at length procured an Agreement between them.  
At this time the Saxons having driven the Britain's into Wales, divided England into seven Kingdoms, whereof Northumberland was one, Governed by King Etheldred, who endeavoured to raise War between the Picts and Scots, that being both weakened he might Conquer both; wherein he prevailed so far, that at length the Picts proclaimed War against the Scots, who on the other side renewed their League with the Britain's, and joining their Forces obtained a great Victory over the Saxons and Picts; but Aidan would not let them pursue for fear of Treachery, and recalling them by sound of Trumpet they assembled about the Standard, Dancing, Singing, and Playing on Pipes and Instruments with all manner of Joy; but in the midst of their Triumphs another party of Picts and Saxons appeared in Battle array, wherewith they were so confounded that Aidan with all his Rhetoric could hardly prevail with them to fall on again, the Saxons came forward with great fury, and soon routed the Britain's, which the Scots observing, fled likewise, losing many of their Nobility, and King Aidans third son, who staying to save his Father out of the throng, was himself slain; several other Battles were fought with equal success, till at length Aidan obtained a considerable Victory, and soon after died in Peace.  
About this time, saith my Author, there dwelled among the Picts one Valdrid a Scotchman, who converted them to the Faith; after his death three Parishes contended about the burying his body, with such heat as they were ready to fight, but by advice it was ordered, that they should continued in Prayers all that night, and the next morning stand to the Bishop's determination, next day there were found three Coffins with three Bodies decently covered with Cloth, so much alike that none could distinguish them asunder; than by the command of the Bishop, and with great Joy of the people the Bodies were carried to the three several Churches and there Solemnly buried, where they remain to this day, saith my Author, in great veneration with the common people.  
XI. After Aidan, Kenneth the Son of Congal was proclaimed and Crowned, but four Months after, dying of the Rheum and Catarrh, he delivered the Kingdom unto Eugenius Son to King Aidan, with the consent of the Nobility, since it was known he had a right thereunto after Kenneths' Decease.  
XII. Eugenius the third succeeded accordingly, of which it is said St. Colme Prophesied before his Father's death, for when the Sons of Aidan were brought before him, and the King demanded which should Reign after him, he Passed over the rest whom he foresaw should die in the Wars, and declared that Eugenius should succeed him. About this time St. Colme died, wasted through Age, some say among his Brethrens in Colmkill, others in Ireland at a Town called Dune, and that his Tomb is now there in great Honour, upon which this Epitaph is In graven.  
Hi tres in Duno tumulo tumulantur in uno,  
Brigida, Patricius, atque Columba Pius.  
Thus translated by Ballantine;  
Saint Colme, Saint Patrick and Brigitta pure;  
These three in Dune lie in one Sepulture.  
Eugenius forgot not the Virtuous instructions of St. Colme in his Youth, so that he rather studied quietly to preserve what he had than to enlarge his Dominions, he was extremely beloved being impartial in the execution of Justice, sparing none in regard of Nobility or Friendship, but was rather more strict against the disorders of Gentlemen than others, yet none more ready to advance those to honour who behaved themselves worthily. In his tenth year the Saxons Vanquished Cadwallo K. of Wales, and chased him into Scotland, from whence he Sailed to Britain, where receiving assistance, he returned back, and slaying many Thousands of this Saxon Enemies was restored to his Kingdom; about this time Eltheldred K. of Northumberland was slain by the East-angles, and left seven Sons behind him, who for fear of falling into the Enemy's hands, fled to Eugenius; likewise Ebba his only Daughter being taken Prisoner made her escape miraculously in a Boat in the River Humber, getting thereinto alone, and sailed into the Main Ocean, as is related, and at length arrived safely at the point of Land in the Mouth of the Forth in Scotland, which after her name is called St. Ebbs-head to this day, where being received by the Bishop, she was made Abbess.  
Eugenius kindly entertained the Sons of Etheldred, though their Father had been a cruel Enemy to the Scots, who after they had continued a while in Scotland, by the Devour Exhortations of the Bishops and Monks forsook Idolatry and embraced Christiany. Eugenius died leaving three Sons behind him, Ferquard, Fiacre. and Donald, who were all by their Father's appointment educated in Virtue by Conon Bishop of the Isle of Man, Ferquad and Donald did not much regard his Instructions as Judging them not to agreed with their Birth and Degree, but Fiacre heard him gladly resolving to forsake the World, and retire to a Contemplative Life.  
XIII. Ferquard succeeded, and was quiet from any disturbance from abroad, though not from Domestic troubles, by the frequent Quarrels among his Subjects, who in all parts of the Realm murdered and rob each other, so that there was no security either of Life or Estate, occasioned by a false Maxim the King had entertained, that whilst they thus ruined one another, he was out of fear of their Rebellion against him, so he never endeavoured to reconcile them; but at length by this means he was disregarded and slighted by all, so that without his knowledge they chose Arbitrators to compose their differences, and grew still more insolent toward him, for being sensible he was not displeased at their divisions, if he did not foment them, they accused him that among other crimes he was guilty of the Pelagian Heresy, which was much abhorred by the people; whereupon the Nobility summoned him by an Herald to appear before a Council of the States by them appointed, to be informed whether it were true; the King refusing to obey their summons, they besieged him in the Castle whither he was retired for safety, which being surrendered they committed him close Prisoner.  
They than consult whether to depose or restore him again, and at last concluded to sand an Honourable Embassage to Fiacre his Brother into France, whither he had re●●red himself into solitary place for his Devotion; and to desire him to return and take upon him the Government Fiacre, as it is reported, having notice of their coming, made fervent Prayers to God, to confirm him in his contemplative Life, and that he might not be tempted out into the troubles and vexations of the World; and it happened according to his wish, for (saith my Author) when the Ambassador came to the Hermitage where he was, he appeared to them so loachsome and dissigured with the Leprosy and filthy sores, that upon his earnest refusal to forsake his Life of an Anchorite for the greatest Preferment in the World, they were soon satisfied to return with that answer, since they thought him unfit to Govern because of his Infirmity; and returning to Scotland with this account, the Nobility chose four of the most ancient among them, for Wardens of the Kingdom, to manage all as they thought fit; in the mean time Ferquard continuing in Prison and being tormented with divers pains and diseases, to be freed from his miseries, slew himself.  
XIV. After this wretched end of Ferquard the Lords assembled at Argile, and Donald the third Son of Eugenius was invested King, who according to the example of his Father, restored the Kingdom to its former State, whereby he became beloved and admired; at this Cadwallo K. of Britain, and Penda King of those English who inhabited the Country formerly called Mercia, falling upon Edwin K. of Northumberland, who had usurped the Crown, deprived him of his Life and Kingdom, and pursuing their Victory invaded Pictland, whose people in vain sued to Donald for aid, because Brudeus their King had so often broken Faith with them, yet upon the death of Edwin, Donald procured Elfred Son of Etheldred to be restored to part of his Father's Kingdom of Northumberland, and of the other part Cadwallo made one Osrike King, who Marrying one of his Daughters to Elfred he persuaded his Son in Law to restore the Pagan, and suppress the Christian Religion in all his Dominions; but this Apostasy was soon revenged upon them for the Britain's Saxons and Piets entered Northumberland, and encountering Osrike and Elfred in battle, utterly routed their Forcer, and took them Prisoners, who being both put into a common Prison, to prevent more severe torture which they daily expected, they desperately slew each other. Oswald his Brother succeeded Elfred who was a very Zealous Christian, and an earnest Enemy to his Predecessor, yet at last he was slain by Penda K. of Mercia whose death Donald much lamented, being a Prince he loved extremely, and did not long survive him, for in the Fifteenth year of his Reign, fishing in the water called Locktay, the boat sunk under him, and he was drowned; after several days his body being found was buried among his Ancestors at Colmkill in 647.  
XV. Ferquard the second his Nephew succeeded, of a quick and lively Spirit, but rather inclined to evil than good, especially after he came to the Crown, it being said that from a liberal modest Prince, he was suddenly changed into an insatiable and cruel Monster; for before he was so Charitable that if any Gentleman wanted money to redeem their Lands, or give it for portions with their Daughters, if he had wherewithal they might be sure of his assistance, yea he seemed rather willing to want himself than to see others in necessity; but now he turned covetous, a scoffer at Religion, a tormentor of his people, and insatiable in all Naughtiness; that which he had formerly given to the Nobility he now shamefully demanded restitution of, pretending he did but lend it, and if any delayed repayment, caused their Estates to be confiscated, and committed them to Prison, and upon very small Allegations many were put to cruel deaths; the famous Bishops Colman and Fynnan perceiving these extravagances, sharply reproved him, and at last finding he did not regard their admonitions they Excommunicated him; which he so little minded, that while others were at Church he went in the Forests to Hunt, with several of his Favourites; he was likewise a great Glutton, and Drunkard, sitting drinking till morning and than Vomiting up the debauches of the former night; which was accompanied with such filthy Lasciviousness, that he Ravished his own Daughters, and because his Queen endeavoured to dissuade him from such abomination, he slew her with his own hands.  
Continuing in this course of Life for some years, divers of his Nobles conspired against him, but Bishop Colman persuaded them by no means to attempt any thing, assuring them, as it seems, by Divine inspiration that Ferquard utterly detesting his own Wickedness should in a short time be punished by the Almighty according to his deserts; which soon after proved true, for as the King was in Chase of a Wolf, the Beast-being enraged by the Hounds, flew back and wounded him dangerously in his side, whereupon either through the anguish or Venom theirof, he fell into a filthy disease, for a Venomous humour with a soft consuming heat did eat and waste his Limbs, and filthy corruption issued out of his feet, legs and privy parts, with so horrid a stink that none could come near him, which bred louse in such an abundant manner as he could by no means be freed from them. Thus he continued two years, acknowledging this to be a Just Punishment for his Sins of which he seemed hearty to repent, and was released from his Excommunication by Colman, and than Receiving the Sacrament and putting hair and sackcloth upon his bore skin according to the Devotion of that Age, he desired to be carried into the next Fields, where he Penitently gave up the Ghost, the Eighteenth year of his Reign, in 664.  
XVI. Maldwin the Son of Donald, next Ascended the Throne, he mantained peace with the Picts, Saxons and Britain's, and administrated the Laws justly to his people; in his Reign there happened a quarrel between the Herdsmen of Argile and Lennox, which at first was inconsiderable, but those of the Western Isles, and the People of Galloway, strengthening either party, they grew formidable; the King having Intelligence hereof, marched toward them, and soon dispersed them, forgiving the common people and executing the leaders, whereby he gained much Beputation among his Subjects in those parts. About this time a grievous Pestilence Reigned throughout the World, so that in three years' time wherein it raged, above half mankind died, yet were the Scots free from it than, and many years after, till Riot, Gluttony, and all other sins, provoked Heaven to sand it among them: Colman being than in Northumberland, and finding the English died so fast, desired leave of the King to retire to the Western Isles in Scotland for his security, where he built a Monastery, and lived the remainder of his days. He was not sooner gone, but the people of that Country joining with the Picts made several Inroads into Scotland, which injuries Maldwin 〈◊〉 back with Interest, whereby they were so enraged that they prepared to make an absolute war against the Scots: but in the mean time Maldwin was strangled in his bed in the night bp his own Queen, upon Jealousy of his keeping company with other Women; the next day she was apprehended, together with those Confederate with her, and were all burnt together.  
XVII. Eugenius the fourth Nephew to Maldwin, being the Son of his Brother Dongard was his Successor, who sent Ambassadors to Egfred King of Northumberland to Treat of Peace, He pretended to be willing thereto though he intended nothing lesle, and consented to a Truce only of eleven Months, in which time he made preparations for War, which Eugenius having notice of, provided for defence; but to give no just occasion, he strictly commanded all his Subjects not to attempt any thing toward the breach of the Truce; Egfred having all things in readiness sent a party of Soldiers to plunder upon the borders of Scotland, who brought thence a great number of Cattles, and slew divers of the Borderers who endeavoured to rescue him; upon this Eugenius sent Ambassadors to demand atisfaction, who after long attendance could hardly procure audience, and than boldly delivering their message, received for answer a plain Declaration of War, with a complaint from Egfred, That since the Truce the Scots had several times fetched booties out of the Confines of his Dominions, and had deserved to suffer more damage than they had yet received; that he resolved not to maintain Friendship with those, who knew not how to keep their hands from Robbing and Stealing from their Neighbours, he therefore bid them tell their King, that within eight days after he should expect Wars both from him, and all his Allies and Confederates.  
Eugenius having received this answer, desired of God, that since Egfred sought to violate the Peace, Divine Vengeance might fall upon his head, who was the alone occasion of the breach thereof; and mustering his Forces, he Marched into Galloway whither a great Army of English were already come, and had Besieged a strong Castle, but were forced to raise the siege to meet Eugenius, where a Furious battle was fought, ●nd at length Egfred being wounded in the face with ●n Arrow fell down dead, whereat the English were so ●icouraged that they fled, and endeavouring to pass the River near the Camp, abundance were destroyed, the Scots reckon twenty Thousand Saxons & English were slain with their King, and but four Thousand Scots; by this overthrow the Saxons and English ●n Northumberland were very much weakened, of which Brudeus King of Picts taking advantage, invaded them, ●illing, burning and plundering all before him, and ●ad wholly subdued that Country, had it not been (saith my Author) for the Prayers of St Cuthbert, which preserved the people from desolation; but ●here was another strong reason, namely their own divisions, for after having for some time ravaged the Country, they quarrelled about dividing the Spoil, and that with such rage as they made a huge slaughter of each other; soon after Eugenius died.  
XVIII. Eugenius the Fifth, the Son of Ferquard, succeeded who by the persuasion of Bishop Adnan, with whom he was educated, and St Cuthbert, entered into a League with the people of Northumberland, but would not be persuaded to conclude peace with the Picts, agreeing only to a truce, which when he found they so often broke to the great damage of his Subjects, he proclaimed War, and sent a Herald to bid them defiance, yet by the Intercession of those Bishops the War continued without the loss of much blood during all the Reign of Eugenius, which was only ten years, he dying in 698. in which year the Scotch Chronicles relate divers wondered accidents; as that in the River Humber there appeared a great Army of men, and Navy of Ships ready for Battle; In the Church of Camelon, a noise was heard like the clattering of Armour; Milk was turned into Blood in divers places of Pictland, and Cheese converted into a Mass or Cake of Blood corn as it was gathered appeared Bloody, In the forth parts of Scotland it reigned Blood; which prodigies 'cause great fear and dread in the minds of the People.  
XIX. Amberkeleth the Nephew, or Son of Eugenius was next declared King, who after his advancement t● Honours, soon changed his manners; for whereas h● before seemed the only refuge of the Poor and Indi●gent, he now became the Patron of all Vices, delighting in nothing but Luxury and Debauchery, whereby th● Government became weak, and Garnard than K of th● Picts, to revenge the injuries received from the Scot● entered the Scottish Borders, making woeful Slaughter of the inhabitants; Amberkeleth having been often reproached by the Nobility, for suffering these horri● abuses against his Subjects, mustered up his men● though not without much dread to appear in th● head of them, whom he was conscious he had so unreasonably neglected, so that they little understood military Discipline, however he marched on, and pitched his Tents by the water of Tey, and after Suppe● having occasion to go forth for natural necessity, accompanied with only two of the Grooms of his Chamber, he was suddenly shot through the head with an Arrow, whereof he immediately died; but by whom, or from whence it came was never known.  
XXI. Mordack his Nephew Son of Ambirkeleth succeeded, who was of a gentle and liberal nature; he established peace with the Pictish, British, and English Kings; in these days, saith the Famous St. Bede, four several Nations lived in Peace and Quietness within the bounds of Albion, though differing in manners, Language, Laws, and Ordinance, Saxons whom he called Englishment, Britain's, Scots, and Picts; Mordack repaired several Churches and Religious Houses, ruined in the time of the Wars, and not re-edified by his Predecessors, and after Eighteen Years Reign died, in 734.  
XXII. Ethsin Son of Eugenius the Seventh succeeded who was naturally inclined to Justice; he continued the peace with his Neighbours and cleared the Realm of the common disturbers thereof, so that he procured both fear and love from his Subjects, but in his Old Age he appointed Four Peers to have the Government of the Kingdom, who did not manage themselves with that uprightness which Ethsin used, conniving at the faults of their Friends and Favourites, and permitting the Nobility to live in their former licentious course, whereby many mischiefs were acted against the Subjects, for Donald of the Western Isles a goodly Personage but inclined to all Vice, maintained a great number of Robbers, who destroyed the Estates of the Inhabitants of Galloway, neither did the King's Lieutenant Mordack endeavour to repress these violences, being either akin, or partaker with them, and the more the people complained the worse they were used, for Ethsin being sick in his latter days, could not take order in the Government; He died in 764.  
XXIII. Eugenius the Seventh Son of Mordack succeeded, who pursued Donald of the Isles, and at last took and executed him with the chief of his Accomplices; he likewise caused Mordack for upholding Donald, to be put to death, and his goods bestowed upon the Commons of Galloway in recompense of their losses occasioned by his falsehood; the other three Governors were fined on the same account: which exact Justice procured him great love among his Subjects; He continued the League with the Picts, Britain's, and English. And now reigning in Peace he fell into all manner of Lasciviousness, deflowering Virgins, and Ravishing the Wives of Nobles and Commons, and those who could promote his libidinous humour were his only Privadoes; to this was added insatiate Covetousness, and barbarous Cruelty, destroying several of his wealth Subjects, to enjoy their Estates; the Nobility enraged at his Actions, killed him one day upon the Judgement Seat, just as he was about to have condemned a Rich man though Innocent, and apprehending several of his Abettors, caused them to be hanged, to the great rejoicing of the wronged People. Such was the end of Eugenius after he had scarce Reigned Three Years in 767.  
XXIV. Fergus the Second Son of Ethsin was next advanced to the Throne, who seemed ambitious to exceed his predecessors in Vice and Enormity, not regarding the Government of the Realm, but devoting himself to Gluttony and Lust, maintaining a number of Impudent strumpets, that his Queen was disregarded, who being a Woman of great Virtue and Modesty, used persuasions to reclaim him; but finding she laboured in vain, since his depraved mind hurried him daily into worse crimes, she grew desperate, and secretly strangled him in his bed, choosing rather to be without a Husband than to have one who suffered his Impudent Paramours to affronted her on all occasions.  
The day after, the King's body being found, was clothed in Funeral Robes, and brought into the place of Judgement, strict search being made for the Authors of so heinous an Act, for though few lamented his death, yet some of his Friends were very solicitous to discover the Murderers, upon which divers were apprehended, and put upon the rack, yet none would make any Confession or discovery, the Queen was not suspected, being accounted a meek temperate Woman; but when she heard how many Innocent persons were tormented without desert, she lamented their miserable condition, and coming in haste into the Judgement Hall, she got upon a high Place, and made a free confession of the fact as done out of Jealousy, and than with a Dagger stuck herself to the Heart, falling dead in the place; the body of Fergus was buried at Colmkill, but the Queens in unholy Ground, as a Self-murtherer.  
XXV. Solvathius the Son of Eugenius the Eighth succeeded, who seemed a Prince born to accomplish great Erterprises, had not Fortune hindered, for he was so tormented with the Gout, by lying abroad in the cold in Hunting, which continued with him during Life, that he was not capable of those worthy Achievements which he designed; this encouraged Mackdonald Governor of the Isle of Tyne to take Possession of all the Towns and Castles in the Western Isles, causing himself to be proclaimed King, yea he transported an Army of dissolute Fellows into the main Land, who made great Havoc, but the Governors of Athol and Argile Encountered and put them to flight, chase them into a straight in Lorn, the entrance whereof is very narrow but large within, encompassed with craggy Mountains, and a deep River at the bottom, so that there was no way to get out, but by the passage wherein they entered, which Macdonald designed to do, but finding it strongly Guarded by the King's Forces he was much Surprised, and calling his Commanders together, after three days they offered to yield at mercy; this being denied they desperately rushed through the midst of their Enemies in hopes to have forced their way, but had the hard ●hap to be every man cut of, by the command of the Governors, for a terror to other Rebels; after this another Insurrection was raised by the son of Donald lately executed, but was soon suppressed: at this time the English, Saxons and Welsh, were so employed by their several Kings and Governors, who strove for the Sovereignty, that they had no leisure to attempt any thing against Scotland; neither were the Picts free, one party of them destroying another, so that the Scots were not troubled with Foreign Enemies; and Solvathius having Reigned Twenty Years died in 788.  
XXVI. Achaius the Son of Ethsin next ascended the Throne, a man Renowned for his Justice, who by his former Conversation among the Gentry perfectly understood their secret Feuds, and Animositys, which he foresaw would be of dangerous consequence, and calling them together, he with wisdom and dexterity perfectly reconciled them. Having thus settled the Realm, it happened that several Irish arriving in Cantire, were slain by the Inhabitants of the Western Isles; this loss the Irish were resolved to revenge, but Achaius sent an Ambassador disowning the act, as committed by a company of Outlaws, without Order; which yet could nothing prevail upon the haughty Spirits of the Irish Nobility, (for at that time they had no King over them) who returned answer, That they were resolved to receive satisfaction for the dishonour they had received, before they would make the lest overtures for Peace, and getting a number of Ships and men together, they were all east away in a Tempest, which so qualified the rest, that they gladly harkened to an Agreement, confessing the Just Judgement of God upon them for attempting War against those that had not deserved it; Achaius replied, the Irish Nation were so stubborn, that they would never hear reason unless they were throughly Scourged, and that the Righteous Creator had dealt with them according to their deserts; however setting aside all past injuries, to show himself a follower of Christ, who so often recommended Peace to us, he was content to grant them that peace which they now sued for; and accordingly it was concluded between both Nations.  
At this time the League with France was first entered into, which continued many Ages; Carolus Sir named Magnus, the great, finding that the English da●● molested the Seas, to the great, damage of Trade upon the Coasts of France and Flanders, by landing and plundering the Inhabitants; he resolved to conclude a● Alliance with the Scots and Picts, wherein this principal Article should be inserted that as often as the English invaded the French, they should fall upon them at home, and on the contrary, if the English War upon the Scots and Pict●● the French would invade the West of England to dive● them. Charles sent several Honourable Persons Ambassadors to Achaius, who represented the conver ency 〈◊〉 this League, to both Nations, since the English would be thereby restrained from such injurious Enterprize● against their Christian Neighbours, for if such insolences continued, they might occasion the diverting those Forces designed against the Saracens, to suppress the English, and endanger those parts of Christendom which lie exposed to the mercy of those Barbarous Infidels.  
This Message was heard with great attention, and the Ambassadors kindly treated; but since the Nobility were of different opinions, the King called an extraordinary Assembly, and ordering several of his Lord to go a Hunting with the Ambassadors, that they might not be present, consulted with the rest concerning the weighty affair, and understanding that his Subject were generally inclined to the League, he dismissed the Assembly till the next day, and treated the Ambassadors with a costly Banquet, after which it was agreed at a conference with the Nobility and Lords of the Council, that for the Solemn ratifying this League with King Charles, there should go with the Ambassadors the Lord William Brother to the King, with four other Learned & Honourable personages, and to carry Four Thousand men to fight against the Infidels, as King Charles should order; the next day Achaius declaring to ●e Ambassadors what was concluded on, they gave hearty ●hanks to him & his Counsellors for their respect to their Master; they went from thence to Hungus King of Picts with the same Message, who took time to deliberate thereon; the Ambassadors than returned back accompanied with the Lord William, the four others and the Four Thousand Men, and were received kindly by King Charles, and the League being confirmed, was proclaimed throughout France, to continued between the two Nations and their Posterities for ever.  
The Chief Articles whereof were This Amity and Confederation between the French and Scots to be firm and perpetual, That the Wars or injuries of English be common to ●oth; the French being assaulted by the English the Scots shall sand them aid to be paid, and armed by the French; ●he French on the contrary to aid the Scots at their own ●roper cost; If any person of either Nation shall assist the English with Arms, Counsel or Provisions, he shall be reputed a Traitor to both Princes; Neither Nation to conclude a Peace ●r Truce without consent of the other; and for a memorial to this matter Achaius added to his Arms, being a read Lion in a Field of Gold, a double trace seamed with a Flower de luce, to signify, that the Lion should be henceforth defended by the French, and that the Scottesh Kings should Fight Valiantly in defence of their Country, Liberty, Religion and Innocency, which the Heralds say is represented by the Flower de Luce; the Lord William remained with K. Charles, performing many considerable Enterprises to the advantage of the French in Florence and elsewhere.  
About this time Athelstan Son of Ethelward K. of the West Saxons, getting the Sovereignty of Kent, East Sax●ny, Mercia, and Northumberland, and being ambitious ●o enlarge hi● Dominions, entered into Pictland about Berwick, as belonging to Northumberland, and putting all to Fire and Sword in Deira, he was recalled to suppress an insurrection in Mercia; Hungus the Pictish King resolved to revenge this injury, and applied himself to Achaius for assistance, who sent him Ten Thousand Men, wherewith he invaded the borders of Northumberland carrying from thence great booty, of which Athelstane having notice, came suddenly upon them and a Herald Proclaimed that all the Picts should be immediately put to the Sword, which cruel command much amazed the Picts, yet they fortified the Camp in the best manner they could, and issued out with such Courage that they routed the English Army, killing Athelstane and most of his men, five hundred only making their escape. The Historian saith, this Victory appeared to the Picts by Miracle, for the night before the Battle there happened to Hungus in his sleep, the Apostle St. Andrew, assuring him of Victory, and for a certain token thereof he told him, there should appear such a Cross as he formerly suffered upon, in the Sky over the Pictish Host; when Hungus awaked looking up to the Sky he saw this Cross, and shown it to his Soldiers, declaring what was revealed to him in his sleep, wherewith they were so encouraged, as not to doubt of success, which happened accordingly; from whence it came to pass that in time of War their Posterity carried this Cross in their Banners, and in gratitude to this Apostle Hungus built a Church and dedicated it to St. Andrew giving thereto many Rich Ornaments, the Images of Christ and the Twelve Apostles of beaten Gold, and a Case of Gold with the Relics of St, Andrew, granting the Clergy Revenues, which yet they did not long enjoy being deprived of them by Feredeth his successor, and bestowed on the Soldiers. After this great loss of the English the Scots and Picts lived in peace during the lives of both their Kings.  
XXVII. Congal the third his Uncle's son by Dong● the Brother of King Ethsin was his successor, betwixt ●hom and Hungus King of Picts there was great love ●nd amity, both studying to maintain the Ancient Al●ance between their People, which procured much quietness to both Kingdoms; at length Hungus wasted with a Consumption delivered up his Kingdom to his on Dorstolorgus, and than departed this Life; neither did vongal long survive him dying likewise of sickness in the ●ifth Year of his Reign, 826.  
XXVIII. Dongal the second son of Solvathius succeeded, a man of singular Wisdom and conduct, but being e'er in punishing the disorders of the Nobility and ●entry, they conspired against him, and caused Alpine ●he son of Achaius to lay claim to the Crown, who perceiving he must either please them, or be murdered, he consented to go into Argile with them to be Crowned ●n the Marble Chair; but Alpine being sensible of the ●ear calamities this Action would bring upon his County, made his escape, and came to Dongal who Joyfully received him, promising that if the States of the Realm ●hould think it necessary, he would gladly resign the Government to him, as being desirous of nothing more than ●he advancement of the House of Achaius; Alpine gave the King thanks, calling God to witness, that he regarded nothing lesle than the Kingdom, and as for his marching into Argile on the head of an Army, it was no ●ault of his, since the Conspirators threatened to kill him if he did not comply; three days after they sent ●o excuse themselves charging all the fault on Alpine; ●he King little regarded their words, but marches so suddenly that he surprised most of them, before they ●eard of his coming, who were presently Executed, which so retrified the rest, that they continued quiet 〈◊〉 great while.  
At this time Eganus the second son of Hungus King of Pict murdered his Eldest Brother Dorstolorgus, to ●●tain the Kingdom, to and settle himself freely bestowed his Father's Treasure among his Lords and other great Men, taking to Wife Brenna Daughter to the King of Mercian his Brother's Widow, to appease the Mercian King for the death of his son in Law; yet he lived miserably being continually in fear of all Men, doubting they would revenge his Brother's death, and never went without a Guard of his Friends whom he had obliged with Money and Presents; but notwithstanding all his precaution, his Wife in revenge of her former Husband's death, strangled him in his bed when he was drunk, not having Reigned full two years.  
These two sons of Hungus being thus made away without issue, the posterity of Hungus were utterly extinct, whereupon Alpine Nephew to Hungus by his his Sister Fergusiana, by the advice of King Dongal● laid claim to the Pictish Crown, and sent Messenger to the Lords of Pictland, to demand the Kingdom due to him by lawful Inheritance, seemed ordained by Almighty God, that for want of a Lawful Successor the Scots and Picts might be united into one, for Preventing these Wars, and Bloodshed, which had endangered the ruin of both Nations. The Pictish Nobility having notice of the coming of these Ambassadors chose one Feredeth King, a man of great Authority among them, thereby to exclude the Title o● Alpine.  
Soon after the Ambassadors came to Camelon th● chief City of the Picts, where Feredeth and his Noble were assembled, and began to declare Alpines right t● the Government, but the people would not suffe● them to proceed, making so great an Uproar, that 〈◊〉 appease it, Feredeth commanding siilence, acquainted them, that the Picts neither could nor would admit a●● stranger to Rule over them, because there was an Ancient Law much reverenced among them, that in case of necess●● they might transpose the Succession of the Crown from o● Family to another; and by the same Law it was ordai●● and decreed that if any Person were once elected and crea●● King, he should continued so all his natural Life, and though Alpine were the Nephew of Hungus, yet being born a stranger, and that the People by their full Authority had translated the Regal Administration to another House, one whereof was already Proclaimed and invested King, there was no reason Alpine should now lay any further claim to the Kingdom.  
The Ambassadors returning, Dongal sent others, requiring Feredeth to do reason, or to expect open Wars in three Months; as these Ambassadors were going toward Camelon, divers Sergeants met them, commanding them in the name of Feredeth their King to departed out of his Dominions within Four Days upon pain of death, with which being terrified they went not further, yet according to their Commission, denounced War against the Picts, in the name of Dongal and Alpine: Upon this great preparation; were made on each side for War, one to settle Alpine in his right, and the other to prevent any Stranger Prince from reigning over them. But while all things were providing. Dongal happened to be drowned in the River Spey, the boat being cast away.  
XXIX. Alpine than received the Crown with the general joy of the people, who endeavouring to pursue his Title to the Pictish Kingdom, entered thereinto with a well appointed Army, and was met by Feredeth, a great Battle was fought, wherein King Feredeth was slain and abundance of his people, Alpine likewise losing above a Third part of his Army. The Scots fearing such another costly Victory might endanger the ruin of their Country, resolved to manage it only with a few, who should make incursions upon the Picts, which they did so effectually that the Country was left desolate of Inhabitants; neither could Brudus (the Son of Feredeth, whom they had chosen King) prevent it; for being slothful and negligent in his Government, he became a derision among his people, who slew him before he had Reigned a full year. Kenneth the second Son of Feredeth succeeded with no better fortune, for assembling an Army and coming to Angus he not sooner saw his Enemies but he threw of his Armour and fled, leaving his People in the Field, and for haste was slain by a Ploughman, who knew him not, only obserunig he fled from his Company judged him to deserve no other favour; the Soldiers finding themselves destitute of a Commander retired in good order without any further attempt.  
After this unfortunate end of Kenneth, the Picts chose Brudus, of a Warlike Spirit, who coming into Angus, seized and hanged several Scotch Robbers. He sent to Alpine to renew the former League between both Nations, but was rejected, and no Peace or Truce to be expected without delivering up the Kingdom, whereupon Brudus sent money to Edwin King of Northumberland, desiring his aid; the Money was received and assistance promised, but never sent, Edwin pretending he had domestic Rebellions to quell, and likewise had been requested by Lewis the French King by no means to endamage the Scots, his Confederates▪ but if he would defer the War till next year he would sand him succours. Brudus perceiving himself deluded by the English, summoned all his Subjects able to bear Arms, to assemble in Caledony within Eight Days with all necessary provisions, there to understand his pleasure. His Commands were obeyed and a mighty Army appeared wherewith he marched towards the Enemy. The night before the Battle, Brudus ordered all the Horses that belonged to the Carriages to be put among the Lackeys, and Women, part of whom were in Armour, and part in white Linen with long Poles in their hands like Javelins, an● hundred Horsemen being placed among them, these he laid in a Wood hard by the Field of Battle, next morning the Fight began with great fury; wherein a● first the Scots were disordered, but by the presence of Alpine again reinforced, and began to get ground o● the Enemy, at which time this sergeant Troop came out of the Wood, and shown themselves upon the back of them, appearing a much greater number than they were wherewith the Scots were so terrified that they threw away their Arms, and fled so that few were slain in the Battle but many in the chase. Alpine himself was taken and having his hands bound behind him was led to the next Town and there beheaded, his head set upon a pole on the highest Tower in Camelon, having Reigned only Four years.  
XXX. The Scots who escaped from this overthrow retired into Argile, and chose Kenneth the Second, the Son of Alpine, King. The Picts having obtained so considerable a Victory assembled at Camelon by their King's Command, where causing a Procession of Thanks to be made for their good success, they took a Solemn Oath upon the four Evangelists, That thenceforward they would never cease to make War against the Scots till they had utterly destroyed and rooted out the whole race from the face of the Earth, and that if any man durst mention or propose any League or Peace to be made with them, he should loose his head. Several grave Personages in the Assembly were scandalised at this extravagant presumption of the People, alleging that in prosperity men ought to use modesty; wherewith the Younger Men were so offended that they thrust them out of the Church where they were met; the Scots having notice hereof were not in the Lest discouraged, but rather animated at such unreasonable insolence. Next Summer the Picts mustering their Forces marched towards the Scots; but upon a small occasion they fell at Variance, and fought with much eagerness one against each other, neither could their King appease ●hem, till night parted the Fray; and finding no way ●o compose the quarrel the next morning he dismissed his Forces and went home in great discontent, with the grief whereof it was thought he soon died. After whose decease they chose one Drusken for their King who endeavoured to compose these Civil discords.  
Several Scots being much concerned that the head of their King should remain in that reproachful manner amongst their Enemies, and understanding the Pictish Language, they came to Camelon like Merchants and took an opportunity to get the head of the Walk, which they brought safely to Kenneth, who highly rewarded them, and Honourably buried his Father's Corpse together, in a Leaden Coffin in Colmkill. The King than designed to revenge his Father's death upon the Picts, but upon proposing it to his Lord● found them extreme backward, as remembering the late misfortune, whereupon Kenneth breaking up the Assembly invited them all to Supper that evening where they were highly treated till very late in the night, so that as soon as they were in bed they fel● fast asleep; now the King had ordered several me● to be clothed in shining fish Scales, with a stick of rotten wood in one hand and a great Hunting Horn i● the other, that they speaking through the Horn the● Voices might seem terrible and unusual. Being the accommodated, about midnight they enter, one into each of the Lords Apartments, who were sound a● sleep, and by their noise half wakened them, wh● were much astonished at the sight, Doubting whether it were a Dream or Vision; upon this they hea●● them speak with strange Voices, far greater than tho● of men, these words, That they were Messengers co●● from Almighty God to the Nobility of Scotland, and to Command them to obey their King, for his request was just; th● the picush Kingdom was due to him by Rightful Inherita● and aught to be recovered from the People, who for their gr●● sins, should suddenly come to utter destruction, for such 〈◊〉 the determination of the Divine Majesty, which neither W●●dom nor Policy was able to prevent.  
When these pretended Messengers had thus spok● they hide their Stars, and Shining Garments und●● their other , and seemed to vanish away. Ne● morning these Lords being met in the Council Chamber, declared to each other what they had seen, and heard, which finding to be the very same to every one, they concluded, it was some Celestial Oracle and Divine admonition, and went and discovered it, to the King, who told them he had seen the like Vision, but that they ought to conceal it, left they should displease the Almighty; but when through his favourable assistance the War was brought to an happy end, they might than publish it. This advice was approved of, and the Nobles made all manner of provisions, so that a great Army was mustered, wherewith they unexpectedly invaded Pictland: King Drusken ●net them, assisted by some English who in the beginning of the fight left them, so that the Scots obtained a considerable Victory; Drusken escaping by the swiftness of his Horse: the Picts hereupon sue for peace, which Kenneth would not harken to upon any other condition, than surrendering the Kingdom into his hands as his Right.  
Upon which the War went on with great Destruction of the Picts in all places, who received another terrible overthrow, wherein their King was killed and most of their Nobility. It is said that the Scots encountered with the Picts in this fight seven several times, in seven several places, wherein the Victory still remained to the Scots; Kenneth was hereupon advised to dismiss his Army, but resolving to make an end of the War all at once, which was now in so ●air a way, he called the People together and spoke ●hus to them.  
It is the duty of a Wise Captain, when he hath the Victory in his hands, and the War not finished, to use his success to the advantage of himself and ●hi Country, and not to divert from pursuing his Enemies once Vanquished, till he hath made them his Friends, or utterly destroyed them; for if any shall imagine it the best course to suffer them to retrain quiet when they are brought low, till they recover fresh force and strength, I think he may thereby procure more danger than he is ware of. And to apply this to the present case, the Pictish Kingdom we know is now much enfeebled, their Forces rent, their Power weakened, so that it is in our hands utterly to exterminate and destroy the whole Nation, which were an Action to be abhorred and detested, if it were possible for us by any honourable means to invite them into Friendship with us; but the Picts are of such stubborn and revengeful Natures, that so long as there remains one alive, they will retain in their hearts the utmost Sentiments of Vengeance against the Scots for the losses & mischiefs received by them, so that I think it impossible the Pictish Nation should ever have the lest kindness for us for the future; therefore since we can never make them Friends, it will certainly be our interest and security, utterly to extinguish the whole race, by putting to the Sword not only the Men and Women, but their very Youth and Infants, jest they, being descended from their loins, should in time to come arm themselves to avenge the death of their Parents, and thereby greatly hazard the utter ruin of our Country and Kingdom.  
Although this cruel determination seemed severe yet to please the King, and for the future safety o● Scotland, it was allowed and confirmed by all the People, upon which such barbarity was used, that through all the Pictish Kingdom, no creature of human shap● was left alive, but such as saved themselves within th●● walls of Camelon and other strong places, and abou● Two Thousand who fled into England; the rest were murdered without respect to Age, Sex or Quality; and new names given to all places, that no remembrance of the Picts might remain; soon after the City of Camelon was besieged, wherein were most of the Noble men's Wives and Children, the Siege continuing 〈◊〉 long that they were forced to eat upon Cats, Do●● and the most abhorred things in nature, yet so obstinate were they that if any did but mention surrendering, he was presently slain; At length it was taken by assault, and miserable slaughter was made among the Religious as well as others; a great number of Ladies and Gentlewomen got into the presence of King Kenneth, and lamentably besought him to save their lives from his bloody Soldiers, but such was the Rage of the Scots that they ran upon them, and slew them all without mercy or compassion, yea so dreadful was the carnage, that there was not one left alive of the Pictish Nation, neither Man, Woman, nor Child, to bewail the miserable destruction of their kindred or Country; than were the Walls of Camelon levelled with the ground, the Houses and Churches burnt, so that there remained nothing of this famous City but deplorable ashes and Ruins. At the same time the Castle of Maidens, now called Edinburgh, was kept with a mighty Garrison of Picts, who hearing of the woeful fate of Camelon, left the Castle, and escaped into Northumberland. Thus ended the Kingdom of the Picts after they had Reigned therein 1173 Years, in the year of Christ, 839. From the first coming of Fergus into Scotland 1166 Years, and from the Creation of the World, according to the Scottish Writers, 4806.  
This year two dreadful Comets appeared; fiery Armies were seen in the Air, running with burning spears, one vanquishing the other, and both immediately vanquishing. At Camelon as the Bishop was officiating, holding his Croizier Staff in his hand, it fell on Fire of its self, neither could by any means be quenched till it was burnt to ashes: About Noon the Sky being fair, and clear, such a clattering of Arms, and neighing of Horses was heard both in Scotland and Pictland, as if two Armies had been engaged in Battle; These Prodigies were diversely interpreted, though they seemed to all to presage the dreadful calamities that followed.  
Kenneth having thus destroyed the Pictish Kingdom, caused the Marble Chair to be removed out of Argile to Scone; where the succeeding Kings were Crowned; Those Picts that fled into Northumberland endeavoured to persuade the English to attempt the recovery of their Country, but not prevailing by reason of the Intestine divisions amongst themselves, some of them went to Norway and Denmark, and others laying afide the thoughts of War settled in lawful employments, the Scots living in quiet during the life of Kenneth, who was of great Renown for having enlarged his dominions, which now extended from Northumberland South to the Isles of Orkney North, and for many good Laws which he instituted for the benefit of his People, whom he Governed. He died.  
XXXI. Donald the second, his brother, Reigned after 〈◊〉 of much different qualities, though he conceased his V●ious Inclinations, for fear of offending his Brother; in two years' time he subverted all good O●der in the R●a●m, giving himself up to Riot, and De●●●c●erry, advancing only the Vicious, and discoantenancing the Virtuous; the Nobility admonished the King of these mischief's, but found him deaf to their Petitions, so that for fear of offending they in s●d silence saw Oppression and Violence Reign through the Kingdom. At this time the residue of the Picts in England renewed their Applications for recovering their Country, promising Subjection; which induced Osbert and Ella Kings of Northumberland to undertake it, since they heard of the weakness of the Scotch Government, and concluding a League with the Britain's who Inhabited Cumberland, they joined their Forces, and marched toward the River Tweed, from whence they sent an Herald to King Donald requiring him to surrender all the Country which the Scots had taken from the picts, or else he must expect the English and Britain's to be not lesle severe Enemies to them, than they whose cause they had undertaken to defend.  
Donald was at first startled at the news, but being encouraged by his Friends, he marched into the Field; but the youth of the Army were so corrupted with Vicious Customs, that the Provisions which should have served for the Soldiers was spent upon Whores, Bawds, and Gamesters wherewith the Camp was replenished; when their Enemies understood these disorders, occasioned for want of discreet Commanders, they came by break of day, and finding them unprovided made a terrible slaughter, above Twenty Thousand Scots being slain, King Donald was taken aslsep, having overdrank himself the night before, and many of the Nobility with him. When the News of this unfortunat Battle came to Scotland the People were so astonished, that they m●de no defence, so that the English pursuing their Victory took in a great part of the Country, at length the Scots sued for Peace, which was condescended to by the English, but upon such hard terms that the people generally resolved not to accept of; but Culene a Nobleman and Governor of Angus, used such Arguments as quieted them, and King Donald with his nobles were sent home according to that agreement, and the countries' conquered by the English and Britain's divided between them, the Town of Sterling being the common March to them and the Scots only the Castle was held by Osbert, who set up a Mint there to Coin Money, which the Scotch by mistake called Sterling from this place; He likewise made a Stone-bridge over the River Forth in the midst he set up a Cross, whereon these Verses were engraven.  
Anglos à Scotis separate Crux illa remotis.  
Arma hinc stant Bruti, stant Scoti hac sub ruce tuti.  
In Scotch thus.  
I am free March as Passengers may ken,  
To Scots, to Britain's, and to Englishmen.  
The Picts, who assisted the English, expected to be restored to their possessions, but when Osbert settled his own Subjects therein, they began to suspect jest they of Friends should become Enemies, and to secure their interests, should root out the whole Generation of the Picts whereupon most of them sailed into Norway and Denmark, and those that remained were slain by the English, so that there was not one to be found alive in all their Dominions.  
Donald was received again with much Joy by his people in hopes that these afflictions would have reform his manners. But in short time he returned to his Old Vices bavishing those honourable Persons from his presence, who endeavoured the advancement of the Kingdom, and the ease of the Subjects. The Nobility perceiving the danger of the Common wealth by his ill management, committed him to Prison, where a few days after in desperation he slew himself in the Sixth year of his unfortunare Reign, in 862. In his time in Lothian a Child of six weeks old bid his Mother fly out of the Country, for the Enemy would suddenly take it from the Scots. The Beasts in the Field roared in a strange manner, and than fell down dead, Fishes in the Shape of men were found on the Scotish shore. In Galloway a multitude of Snakes & Adders fell out of the Sky, & putrifying sent forth such a noisome stench, as caused mortal diseases in man and Beast.  
XXXII. Constantine the Second, the Son of Kenneth succeeded, who was very desirous to have recovered those lands which the English had conquered, but his Lords informing him of the weak condition of his Realm by the former misfortunes, he desisted for the present, and fell upon reforming abuses at home, whereby the Scots grew sober, temperate and valiant, and Constantine was much beloved by his People, whom he maintained in peace and plenty, till one Evan of the Western Isles endeavoured to raise a Rebellion, who with several rude persons being abridged of their former liberty in oppressing their Inferiors, grew discontented; but endeavouring to engage the people of Murrayland and Ross and other places, they discovered it to the King, who surprised them unawares, causing Evan to be hanged upon a high Gallows, and committed the rest to Prison.  
This being over, a worse mischief followed, for the King of Denmark pretending Right to the Lands of the Picts, the residue of that Nation who fled having resigned their Title and Interest to him, he resolved to make War with the Scots and English, for recovering them; and landed a vast Army in Fife und●● his Two brethrens Hunger and Hubba, before the Scots had any notice, who fell to Robbing and Murdering the people, especially Priests, burning Churches and Chapels, being themselves Pagans'. The Scots and English fled before them, not being able to resist their fury, till at length Constantine raised a mighty Army, and obtained a Victory against them; but being numerous, they rallied again, and gave the Scots a terrible overthrow, ten Thousand of them falling that day, and Constantine being taken Prisoner, was carried into a Cave by the Sea side, and murdered, which place was called the Black, and afterwards the Devil's Den, in memory thereof; he reigned 13 years, and died in 875.  
XXXIII. Ethus the Brother of Constantine was presently Crowned King, to prevent the utter destruction of the Scottish Kingdom, which was much endangered: This year in the mouth of the Forth a multitude of Fishes like Men appeared, with half their bodies above Water, their Skins black, going in great numbers like Herrings. The Rivers and Ponds were frozen from November to April, and upon the Thaw was a great Flood o'er all the Plains, and part of the Mountains, and when the Waters abated, a vast quantity of Frogs was left in the Mud, that putrified the Air, from whence mortal Diseases proceeded▪ A Blazing Star was seen night & day following the Moo●●  
The Danes having vanquished the Scots, passed into Northumberland, ruining all before them; and being aided by divers, English, they slew Osbert and Ella, Kings of that Country, in Battle, Massacring the People, especially Churchmen, and Martyred St. Edmund King of the East-Angles: yet the English Kings Warred against them many years, with various success; most of the people along the Coasts of the Germane Ocean being either slain or miserably iaslaved; but Alfred, who succeeded his Brother Etheldred, obtained several Victories, slaying their two Captains, Hunger and Hubba.  
Ethus' King of Scots was so swift of foot, that he would outrun Hearts and Greyhounds; but his mind was uncapable of Government; for whereas he might have recovered Fife and Lothian, whilst the Contest lasted between the Danes and English, he neglected it, delighting more in licentiousness than Warlike Enercises, For which the Nobility resolved to depose him; and seeking him out, hunting in the Forest of Caledonia, they seized him, and his Abettors, committing them close Prisoners, and proceeded to the investing a new King; and Ethus through anguish of mind died within three days, in the second year of his Reign, 875.  
XXXIV. Gregory, the Son of Dongald the Second was next advanced to the Crown; he fi●●●t caused a Convocation to be called, who ordained many things for advancing the Christian Religion. He than recovered the Conquered Country's from the Dan●s, his Enemies flying before him, and proceeded against the Britain's, who possessed a great part of Scotland, but they doubting their own streng●●, offer to surrender all those Lands which belonged to the Scots. Gregory considering that if the Scots, Britain's and English, joined in League, they need fear neither the Invasions of the Danes, nor any other basbar●us People; consented thereto, whereby the Confines o● Scotland were enlarged to their ancient and utmost bounds This Alliance disheartened the Danes, who expecting present de ruction, used divers practices to break it, and at last effected it; for the English under King Alfred, having such success against the Danes, that the Britain's were not more afraid of them, repent of the League they had made, and under Constantine their King entered Anandale to recover those Countries; but King Gregory vanquished their Army, Constantine being slain among them. This overthrow endangered the utter ruin of the Britain's, by the Scots on one side and the Danes on the other, the English refusing to assist them, because they had broke the late Treaty; so that they were forced to sand Ambassadors to Gregory, excusing themselves and charging Constantine, who contrary to the inclinations of his Subjects, undertook that dishonourable and unfortunate Enterprise: K. Gregory reproached them for their faithlesness, declaring he would conclude no Peace nor Truce unless they resigned Westmoreland and Northumberland into his hands, and to have 60. Nobleman's eldest Sons as hostages for his security; which conditions the Britain's were obliged to condescend to since they knew not how to avoid it, and surrendered all that was required, settling themselves in North Wales betwixt Conway and the River D●e, where they erected a King●o●, and maintained Wars against the English several Years. K. Gregory having thus enlarged his Kingdom, Assembled his Nobles at Carlisle, and resolved to parsue his good Fortune, to the City of York, whilst the English were employed against the Danes in Kent, at which time Alfred sent Ambassadors to congratulate his success, and to renew the League against their Common Enemies, which upon mature deliberation was assented to, with new Articles for mutual defence.  
Matters thus settled with the English, when Gregory thought of enjoyine ●eace, the Irish made an Invasion it to Galloway, because the Inhabitants had plundered two Ships belonging to Dublin; Gregory marched toward them, but having got a vast booty they Embarked again, and sailed home. Gregory with his Navy followed them, Landing a great Army in Ireland, and was met by another of the Irish, encamping themselves strongly upon the Bank of the River Bane, under a great craggy mountain called Foot, intending to delay fight till the Scots should be Famished for want of Provisions, and than to destroy them at Pleasure; of this K. Gregory was ware, and in the night sent two Thousand men through the Woods to the Ridg of the mountain, and upon a sign given, Gregory assaulting their Camp, the Soldiers above tumbled mighty Stones and Rocks on the Irish, that above a Thousand were slain, and the rest put to Flight; after this another Battle was Fought, wherein the Scots were again Victorious, which caused the Irish to desire peace, which was managed by Cormach Bishop of Dublin, who coming to meet him, the King alighted of his Horse, and falling on his Knees Devoutly Kissed the Crucifin; the Articles were soon agreed, and great rejoicing was made upon the Amity between both Nations. Gregory than returned home, and had no disturbance during the rest of his Life, which he ended in a good old Age, being never Married, but living  all his days, and for his Glorious Achievements, deserving to be reckoned among the most renowned Princes of Scotland; he died in 895. In his time lived the Famous Johannes Scotus or John Scot, a Sco●●●an Born, who was brought up at Athens, Learning there the Greek Tongue, from whence he was sent for to the Emperor Lewis of France, and was employed by him as Ambassador to Alfred King of England, with whom he continued, teaching his Children in the Abbey of Malmsbury, wherehe ●●ad a great number of Scholars; yet when he severely reproved them for their vicious practices, he was muttered with their Daggers, whilst reading to them, and is registered among the Martyrs.  
XXXV. Donald the third, the Son of Constantine the second, succeeded Gregory, who finding all things quiet endeavoured to continued the same, causing Justice to be duly administered, so that no injury (especially toward the poor) was left unpunished, ordaining that such as by Swearing Blasphemed the name of God, or in Cursing called upon the Devil, or wished the Devil to take any Christian, should be bored through the Tongue with an hot Iron. In his Reign Gormand a Dane Landed in Nothumberland, Pitching his Camp near the Shoar, without doing any damage to the Country, so that it was uncertain whether he intended a Conquest there, or to make War upon the English; upon which Donald hastened toward the place, but in the way had notice that they were passed over Humber, and marched farther into England, whereupon in pursuance of the Treaty lately made, Donald sent five Thousand men to Alfreds assistance, who fought with Gormand at Alington, where after a bloody Battle the Victory remained to the English, yet with so great loss that they were not able to pursue their Enemies, but were forced to conclude a Peace with them, upon condition that the Danes should Inhabit in England, so they would be Baptised into the Christian Religion, and Pledges being given for security on both sides, Gormand received Baptism, and changed his name to Athelstane, during whose Life Peace continued betwixt the two Nations.  
At this time several Thiefs coming out of Ross in the night, went into Murrayland, from whence they fercht much Booty; at first those of Murrayland resisted them as they were able, but calling their neighbours to assist them, they skirmished in such a manner, that above Two Thousand were slain of both Parties. Donald offended at this notorious breach of the Peace, raising strong Forces, marched toward them, where he seized, condemned and executed the Ringleaders and thence went into Northumberland to be in readiness if the Danes and English should attempt any thing against his Subjects in those parts, which he than suspected; he died in 905.  
XXXVI Constantine the Third, the Son of Ethus, called Swififoot, was next advanced to the Royal Dignity, whose nature was more inclined to Peace than War; K. Edward who succeeded Alfred in England, being sensible thereof, sent an Herald at Arms, commanding him to restore Northumberland, Cumberland, and Westmoreland, which King Gregory had taken from the English by reason of their domestic troubles, or otherwise to expect War at his hands within forty days after this summons. Constantine returned answer, That if King Edward were resolved to make War for those Lands which he enjoyed by just Right and Title, he and his People would be ready to defend themselves, beseeching God Almighty to revenge the bloodshed upon those who had raised the Quarrel. Hereupon some slight Skirmishes happened between them for about a year, when the power of the Danes increasing, Edward by the persuasions of his Lords, Proposed Terms of Peace, which were willingly accepted by Constantine, and the League was confirmed.  
The War soon after was renewed betwixt the English and Danes and a peace again confirmed by a Marriage between Siri●k King of Northumberland, and Beatrice King Edward's Daughter, at length Sirick was poisoned by his Wife; and because Anlaff and Godfrey the Sons of Sirick put B●atrice to death for the murder, Edward made War against them, and vanquished them, though with the loss of his own Life. The Danes being certified of King Edward's Death, made new preparations for War, and Anloff persuaded Constantine to join with him against the English, who sent them an Army commanded by Malcolm Son of King Donald the Third of Twenty thousand men, wherewith they concluded to destroy the English Nation; Malcolm ●eing at the same time proclaimed Heir Apparent of Scotland; and had Cumberland assigned him for maintaining his Grandeur, and it was than ordained, That the Successor to the Crown should ever after enjoy that Title and Province. Malcolm joining his Forces with Anlaff and Godfrey, they marched into the English Borders murdering the innocent Inhabitants, and burning their Houses without pity, boasting they did this to provoke them to come into the Field, and revenge the blood of their Friends and Kindred, confidently presuming that they were unable to withstand the united Force of the Scots and Danes; but Athelstane, the natural Son of K. Edward, succeeding his Father, to revenge these ●orrid insolences, raised an Army and encountered them at a place called Bromingfield in 947. Where the English at first pretending to fly, their Enemies broke all their ranks to Pursue them, but the English railying, beaten them down in great numbers, and obtained a great Victory, Twenty Thousand Scots and Danes being ssain, with Wilfert K. of the Guentes, Hanwall K. of the Britain's, and Seven Dukes who came to their assistance; Athelstane following his blow, recovered the three Countries which his Father demanded, Malcolm was wounded in the Battle, yet made his escape, and was carried home in an Hor●-litter, declaring to Consian●ine the whole proceed in the Battle, who perceiving his Kingdom much weakened for want of Nobility, on whom the late Slaughter fell very heavily, they thinking it more Honourable to die in the ●ield than cowardly to fly, whereby most of them were cut of; and the rest being young and unexperienced, neither able by force nor Counsel to defend the Realm, to free himself from danger and trouble, he resigned the Kingdom, and became a Canon in the Abbey of St. Andrews, where he died.  
In his Twenty Seventh Year a Monster was Born of both Sexes with a head like a Swine, feet like a Goose, and legs like a man, full of bristles and of a horrid shape; another was born in Northumberland of the male Sex, one Belly and two Thighs, and two legs from the Belly downward, but divided upward into two entire Bodies, and appeared to have two contrary humours, for when one eat the other would fast, so that they always quarrelled, beating and tearing each other with their Nails, at length one dying, the other not able to endure the filthy stench of the dead Body, died likewise. A Fountain of Blood issued out of the side of a Mountain in Galloway, for seven days together, so that all the Rivers in that Country, had their Water mixed with Blood, which running into the Sea, caused it to seem bloody some Miles from the shore; all which were thought to presignify that fatal overthrow at Bromingfield.  
XXXVIII. Malcolm the Son of Donald the Third succeeded Constantine, who finding the Kingdom weakened by the latengreat Losses, to secure the Borders of his Kingdom, resolved to maintain Peace with the English; and designing to sand Ambassadors, to that purpose, he had notice that K. Athelstane had given Northumberland to Anlaff the Dane, & had entered in a League to assist him against the Scots, with which news Malcolm was much surprised, being sensible of the want of valiant Commanders; however, calling a Counsel, while they continued in great perplexity, intelligence came that a Dissension happening in the Camp, the English and Danes had fought a bloody Battle, wherein the English were Victors, who pursued the Danes, till night prevented them; Anlaff with his broken Troops fled into Westmoreland, and getting what Ships he could, sailed to the Isle of Man; which having plundered passed from thence to Ireland.  
Athelstane having lost many of his Soldiers continued in Northumberland without marching into Scotland, great rejoicing being made in that Country for so happy a deliverauce by such a strange accident, at length he sent Ambassadors to Malcolm to treat of Peace; which was gladly accepted by the Scots, and the former League confirmed, with only this Article added, That Northumberland being now chief inhabited by Danes, should remain in possession of the English, and Westmorland and Cumberland to the Scots; provided that he who should succeed to the Crown of Scotland should do homage to the King of England as his Vassal for the same, ever after. Peace thus concluded Indulph the Son of Constantine the third was proclaimed Prince of Cumberland and Heir Apparent; Malcolm continued some years quiet, striving to advance the good of his People, but making a progress through his Kingdom, & causing Justice to be severely executed against offenders, he was murdered in the night by a few Conspirators, who being discovered, weretorn in pieces with wild Horses, & their Quarters set upon the Gates of several Cities.  
XXXVIII. Indulph Prince of Cumberland succeeded, His first five years passed over without any considerable action, but than Anlaff the Dane sent to join in amity with him against the English, in revenge of the overthrow at Bromingfield, alleging that a fit opportunity was now offered, since after the Death of Athelstane the English had created Edmond to be their King, a man of a dull wit, and unfit for Government, ●either ought the League between Malcolm & Athelstane ●e any impediment to him, because it expired with ●heir Lives, Indulph replied, that this League was concluded with much deliberation, and by consent of all the states ●f the Realm, and ratified with their Solemn Oaths for the ●rue performance thereof, so that they could not violate it without incurring the just Indignation of Heaven against him and ●is People. Anlaff looking on Indulph as a flothful and negligent Person, since he valued the breach of ●n Oath, when it was for his advantage, sent for more Forces from Norway, who landing in Northumberland, Elgarine the English Governor, declaring himself to be descended of Danish Blood, Treacherously yielded up all the Towns, Castles and Forces, in that Country to Anlaff, engaging to aid him to the utmost against King Edmond, who having notice thereof, raised an Army, and sending for aid from Scotland in pursuance of the late Treaty, Indulph ordered him Ten Thousand Scots, who together rell upon the Danes, and routed them at the first onset, making a great s●●ghter in the pursuit; Elgarine was taken alive according to Edmond desire; and for his Treason was drawn in pieces with wild Horses.  
Soon after the Kings of Norway and Denmark came with a mighty Navy upon the Coasts of Scotland to revenge the ●●aths of their Countrymen, designing to land at the Forth, but bein●eaten of, they made a descent in Bucqain; Indulph marched toward them and after an obstinate Fight, forced them to fly, a multitude being sl●●●; the King with certain choice Troops pursuing the ●hase very hard, happened to fall in among a number of Danes, who fled from the Field at the beginning of the Fight, by one of whom he was shot through the head with a Dart, and died, though not before he was revenged of his Enemies, every man of them being s●ain upon the place.  
XXXIX. D●sse the Son of Malcolm was next Invested in the Kingdom. In the beginning of whose Reign Cullen the Son of Indulph was proclaimed Prince of Cumberland; he first went over into the Western Isles, and purged the Country of those Malefactors who Robbed and oppressed the People, causing a great number of of them to be Executed, the rest flying for security into Ireland, or else forced to follow some Trade, which severity discontented the Nobility, many of them being of great Families, whom it was unbecoming to work for their Livelyhoods; Saying, the King was only a Friend to the Commons and Clergy, but neglected his Nobles, and was therefore unworthy to Govern them these discourses were Familiar with them throughout the Kingdom.  
In the mean time the King fell sick of a Languishing Disease which the Physicians could in no wise understand, for though they saw no reason, yet his Body consumed away; he looked well and lusty, eat & drank very well, but could get no rest, falling into great Sweats which could no way be prevented; yet though ●he had little hopes of recovery, he administered the Laws Justly to his People, but when it was known what danger he was in, several discontented Persons raised a Rebellion in Murrayland, killing divers of the King's Officers, and committing cruel outrages, though the Physicians would not admit him to have knowledge thereof; it happened at this time there was some discourse among the People though none knew the Author, that the King's Sickness was not natural, but caused by Sorcery and Magic Practised by a Company of Witches living at a Town called Foreste in Murrayland, which being brought to the King's Ear, he sent several knowing men; who, not discovering their design, were received in the dark into the Castle of Foreste by the Governor na●●ed Donwald, who kept it for the King against the Rebels, to whom declaring heir intent, they desired 〈◊〉 assistance; now the thing had been whispered in the Castle before, for one of the Soldiers, keeping a young Wench for his Concubine who was Daughter to one of the Witches, she had told him all the Proceed of her Mother, and the rest of the Witches, and that the design was to make away the King.  
Having discovered this to Donwald, the Wench confirmed it, and disclosed the house where the mischief was done, which they breaking into at midnight, found one of the Witches Roasting an Image of Wax ●t the fire upon a Wooden Spit, resembling the King's Person, and another Witch sat by basting of it with a ●ertain Liquor, and mumbling some words of Enchantment; being seized and Examined, they confessed their design was to destroy the King, for as that Image wasted, so did the King's Body break forth into sweat and wasted away, that the words of Incantation were to hinder him from sleeping, and when the Wax was quite melted than should the King dye; that they were taught it by Evil Spirits, and hired to act this Villainy by the Lords of Murrayland; hereupon the Image wa● broke and the Witches burnt to death as they Justly deserved. It was said, that the very instant when this was acted at the Castle of Foreste the King was absolutely freed from his distemper, sleeping that night without Sweeting, and the next day, was perfectly, restored to his Health and Strength, as if he had never been sick.  
Upon his Recovery he raised Forces, and routed the Rebels in Murrayland, apprehending divers, whom he caused to be hanged up on high Gibbets, among whom were divers Young Gentlemen of good Quality and a kin to Donwald the Governor of Foreste Castle, whose pardon he used means to obtain of the King, but receiving a positive denial, he conceved such desperate malice against him that nothing but his death could appease: For the King being still in that Country, he used commonly to lodge in the Castle, because of the confidence he had in Donwald; who could never forge● the reproach of his Family to have his Kinsmen hung up for a Spectacle to the People, the thoughts whereof so disturbed him, that his Wife observing it would never cease till she understood the reason thereof, which when he had declared, she being not lesle incensed against the King than he, urged and persuaded him thereto, contriving how it might be done; which he agreeing to, watched his opportunity; it happened that the night before the King intended to departed the Castle, he was very late in his Oratory at Prayers, and at last coming out, he called those who had been most serviceable in suppressing the late Rebels before him, and giving them hearty thanks, bestowed divers rich gifts among them, and particularly to Donwald whom he accounted one of his most Faithful Servants. Than going to bed his Chamberlains left him, and went to Banquet with Donwald and his Wife, who had prepared several delicate dishes ●r them, where they eat and drank so hearty that ●ey fell into a dead sleep.  
Donwald though his heart misgave him, and he abhorred the Fact, yet by the Instigation of his Wife ●alled four of his Servants, prepared for the villainy, & ordered them now to perform it, who entering the Chamber cut his throat as he lay sleeping, without any ●oise, and immediately carried the Body out of a Posern Gate into the Fields, and throwing it on a Horse ●here ready, conveyed it two Miles further, where ●hey stayed and got some Labourers to help them turn ●he course of a little River, and digging a deep hole in ●he Channel, buried the Body therein, filling it up with great Stones, very hard and close; and than tur●ing the Water into its right course, none could perceive there had been any digging; the Labourers had ●no sooner finished their work, but they murdered them, and fled to the Isses of Orkney.  
Donwald, while the Murder was acting, got amongst the Guard, where he continued all night. In the morning when an outcry was made, that the King was slain, his Body conveyed away, and the Bed all stained with Blood, he ran thither with the Guard, as though he had been ignorant of the matter, and rushing into the Chamber, finding Cakes of Blood on the Bed, and the Floor, he killed the Chamberlains as guilty of this heinous Crime, and than ran about like a madman as if to discover the Murderers; and finding the Postern Door open, charged the dead Chamberlains with the deed, they having the Keys of the Gates in their custody, and that it could not be done without their privy; yea so over diligent was he in his Inquisition, that the Lords began to suspect him guilty though they durst not discover it, being within his Power; six months after this horrid Murder, the Sun did not shine by day nor the Moon by night in any part of the Realm, the Sky being continually covered with black, thick Clouds, Thunderings, Lightning 〈◊〉 Tempest, so that the People were in fear of utter destruction: This was the miserable end of King duff in 973.  
XL Cullen the Son of Indulph, Prince of Cumberlan● was than Crowned King, and demanding of the Bishop the cause of such intemperate weather, they unanimously answered, that no doubt it was because of the ju● anger of the Almighty for the murder of King Duff● and unless the murderers were sought out and punished, worse Judgements might be expected; Cullen appointed public Processions and Fasts for the discovery & made a Solemn Vow never to cease till he had fully avenged his Blood upon the Traitorous Inhabitants o● Murrayland; the People getting to Arms, resolved to follow their Prince, who presently marched toward th● Country; the People trembling at his approach, but especially Donwald his Conscience accusing him, & fearing to be put to the Torture, he fled from his Family with a few to accompany him, and getting to the River Spey, went into a Ship, designing to fly into Norway.  
Cullen having advice hereof passed over Spey water, and taking the Castle of Foreste slew all within it, and hen ransacked and burnt it: Donwalds' Wife and two Daughters were taken alive, and the Mother being put on the Rack confessed the whole matter, and that her Husband did it chief by her provocation; who they were that performed it, by his order, and where they buried him. Whilst this was doing, news ●a●●e that Donwald was by Shipwreck cast ashore within four Mile of the Castle, who being seized was brought to the King presently divers Lords of Ross brought in Donwalds four Servants who Executed the murder; thus all the Offenders being taken and brought to the same place where the murder was contrived and committed they were Arraigned Co●●emned and Executed in the manner following; they were first Scourged by the hangman, & Embowelled, their Entrails being burnt before the● eyes, & their quarters sent into severral parts of the Kingdom; this dreadful end had Donwald and his Wife, before they saw Sun or Moon after the wickedness committed, those that seized the murderers were highly rewarded, and freed for ever from all Taxes or going to the Wars.  
Than was the Body of King Duffe taken up and conveyed to Colmkill, accompanied by Cullen, and all his Lords with a multitude of others; some writ that though the Corpse had been buried six months, yet was it nothing altered but sound and whole as if alive, and that as soon as it was brought above ground the air cleared up, the Sun shining brighter than ever could be remembered, and many flowers sprung up in the Fields, contrary to the season of the year; in that place a Church was after built called Killflies or the Church of Flowers, to this day. This year several Horses in Lothian of singular beauty and swiftness eat their own flesh, and would taste no other Food; In Angus a Child was born without Eyes, Nose, hands or Feet; a Sparrow-Hawk was strangled by an Owl, which were all judged Moustrous presages of future ill.  
Cullen began his Reign with the Execution of justice which gave hope of his future Government, but he fell into all kind of Lasciviousness, which encouraged the youthful Nobility and Gentry to commit many extravagancies, and to abuse Priests, Merchants, and others, of which they could have no redress, for several of the Peers being grieved thereat, made bold humbly to admonish him of his duty, & of the danger of the Realm by such disorders; Cullen answered; I am very sensible that young men cannot be easily persuaded to act like those that have hoarry heads, till time and old Age causes them to be sober; neither do I think it convenient to use such rigour toward them, as some of my Predecessors haveed on having leavened by the Example of Indulph, Duffe a others, wh● a danger I may incur by such severity Government, I being resolved to rule so that I may be rather beloved than feared, which I judge to be the only means to retain my Subjects in due and faithful obedience.  
XLI. Kenneth the third, the Son of Malcolm was next Proclaimed King, who had enough to do to educe the People from that wild and Savage life, they had fallen into by the negligence of his Predecessor; he maintained Amity with strangers, and obliged his Subjects to follow some lawful employment; and resolving to punish some notorious Offenders, he appointed a Sessions at Laneik, causing the Principal of them to be summoned thither; but at their coming, perceiving they should be convicted of several Notorious Crimes, they withdrew into the western Isles for security; the King finding that by the disloyalty of those Criminal Lords and Gentry he could not duly administer Justice, dissembled his indignation, dismissing the Assembly, & marched into Galloway; the next year contriving how to bring these misdoers to Judgement, he appointed all the Nobility to Assemble at Scone, as it to consult about some weitghy affairs; the night before they were to meet, he caused some of his Faithful Servants to lie privately hid in the Council Chamber completely armed, with order to their Captain not to stir till all the Lords were come the next day, and than to do according to command. In the morning the Lords were not sooner met, and placed according to their degree near the King, but the Armed Men encompassed them, at which being affrighted, the King perceiving their Surptize, told them, that he had no design against their Persons, but that he heard they were incouragers and Abetters of those who unjustly robbed and injured the People, which at length would occasion the utter ruin of the Country, advising them to be careful for the future of apprehending and bringing such Villains to justice; which would remove the suspicion he might have, of them for their former miscarriages.  
The Lords began to excuse themselves, and falling at his feet humbly begged pardon, for their past faults, assuring him of their diligence in seizing the Robbers; and the Council breaking up, they were kept in the King's House, where by their Interest with their Friends and kindred, they caused above five hundred of these Malefactors to be seized, who were all hanged upon Gibbets, there to remain for a Terror to others. After which the King licenced the Lords to departed to their own Houses, and the Kingdom continued in peace, till the Danes with great Forces, landed at a Town called Montres in Angus, which they ransacked, and burnt, neither Man, Woman, Child, nor, any other Creature being left alive by these Barbarians; Kenneth raised a potent Army to meet them; and being come near each other, the King earnestly persuaded his Soldiers to show their valour, promising to release them from all tributes due to him for five years, offering ten pound, or the value thereof in Land, to every man that shall bring him the head of a Dane, exhorting them to fight courageously, & to remember there was no hope of mercy, for they must Fight it out at the Sword's point, and not expect any safety in Flight, since their cruel En emies would found them out wherever they were, if they should chance to be overthrown.  
This Victory was much ascribed to the courage the Nobility, but especially to the admirable Valour Hay and his Sons, and a great part of the Spoil in th● Danish Camp was given to him; the King having va● quisht his Enemies, as he was to enter into Bertha ●fered costly Garments to Hay and his Sons, that be●● richly clothed they might be the more Honoured 〈◊〉 the People, but Hay refused to change his , a●● marched into the City with his Plough-beam upon 〈◊〉 Shoulder, being received with little lesle honour th● the King himself, all running to behold him who 〈◊〉 Valiantly restored the Battle, when it was almost pa●● recovery; a while after at a Council held at Scone 〈◊〉 was ordained, that Hay and his Posterity should be reckoned among the Nobility and Peers of the Realm and Gifts and Lands were bestowed upon them suitab●● to their Estates; it is said that by the advice of his So● who understood the fruitfulness of the Soil, Hay required so much Land in those parts where the River T●● runs by the Town of Arrol over against Fife, as a Facon should fly over at one flight, which request being freely granted by the King, Inshire was appointed so the Falcon to be cast of, who never lighted till she can to a great stone near Ross, not far from Dundee, where by all the Country between Inshire and that Stone, b●ing six mile in length and four in breadth, fell to H● and his Sons, the stone being called Falcon's stone, an● the same land continues in the possession of the Hays t● this very day, & the Plow-beam was added to his A●●ustead of a Battle Ax.  
These things happened in the first year of King Ke●th; afterwards a Quarrel arising upon a small occasionused great trouble, Cruthlint one of the Chief Lords 〈◊〉 〈…〉 a Lady called Fewelld who was Daught● ●o Grunet Governor of Angus, coming to visit his Grandfather at his Castle of Delbogin, a fray happened among ●he attendants, wherein two of Cruthlints Servants were ●lain who complaining thereof to his Grandfather, he answered him reproachfully, as if he had occasioned ●he dissurbance; Crunets Servants observing their Master's carriage, fell upon Cruthlint himself, and beaten him so severely that he escaped with great danger of his life. In his return he came to his Mother Fewella at her Castle at Fethercarn, who so incensed him, that having got together a number of People, he went privately toward the Castle, and was admitted by the Guard, who with his followers immediately killed his Grandfather Crunet, and all within the Castle, ransacking and razing it to the ground; the next day he foraged all the Country, returning home with great booty, which others revenged so that much mischief was done; Kennith hereby discovering the nature of the Scots, who must be Governed with a strict hand, getting Forces together, pursued and at last took Cruthlint, and his accomplices; he and the principal of them were executed, the Commons being pardoned as acting by the example of the great Ones, for which impartial Justice he was applauded by the people.  
At this time Kenneth desirous to advance his Children caused Malcolm the son of K. Duffe, his nearest Kinsman, to be made away, (who in the beginning of his Reign was created Prince of Cumberland, and so Heir apparent to the Crown) though Kenneth dissembled his knowledge thereof, and buried him with Honour and seeming sorrow; about the same time Ambassadors came from England, desiring that since Malcolm was dear, the King and States would appoint another in his stead who might do homage for the County of Cumberland, according to the late League; Kenneth called a Council to whom he made a long Oration, persuading them to altar the Ancient Custom of Electing their Princes because of the dangers and inconveniences, and to ma●● an Act for the Crown to descend by Succession, according to the usage of other Nations, to which the Pe●● of the Realm being before prepared, and made se●●●le of the King's resolution, seemed willingly to agreed Constantine the Son of K. Cullen and Grime the Nephew of 〈◊〉 duff first assenting thereto, though by the form● 〈…〉 were likely to have succeeded, but since would not be prevented they thought it safest to see● 〈◊〉 to comply: in pursuance hereof an Act w●● made, That the Heir male of the deceased King, when their Son or Nephew, of what Age soever, yea though he were in his Mother's womb at the time of his Father Death, should succeed, and during his minority, one o● the principal. Noblemen should Govern his Persons the Realm till he came to fourteen years of Age; the Nephew by the Son to be preferred before the N●phew by the Daughter, and the Brother's Son before the Sisters; Lastly Malcolm the son of Kenneth was created Prince of Cumberland, and Heir Apparent to the Kingdom.  
Kenneth by this Law seemed confident that he had asl●red the Crown to his Posterity, whereby all men thought him now in a happy state, except himself, for it is recorded, that soon after, as he was in Bed one Night, he heard a frightful voice utter words to this purpose; Think not O Kenneth, that the wicked murder of Malcolm Duffe contrived by thee, is kept secret from the knowledge of the Eternal God, Thou art he who didst conspire the Death of that Innocent Prince, treacherously perpetrating that against thy Neighbour, which thou wouldst have cruelly revenghged upon any other design against thyself, it shall there fore come to pass, that both thou and thy issue, by the just vengeance of Almighty God, shall suffer deserved punishment, to the utter ruin of thy Family, For even at this present there are secret contrivances in hand to dispatch thee and thy issue out of the way that others may enjoy that Kingdom which thou didst endeavour ●o secure to thy Posterity. The King extremely astonished at these words passed that night without sleep and next morning went to Bishop Marcan, a man of great holiness of Life, to whom he confessed all the circumstances of this heinous offence, desiring counsel how to appease the Wrath of Heaven against him; who observing his great penitence, comforted him by telling him, that as God was provoked by sin and wickedness, so he was pacified by repentance and a meadment, whereupon the King submitted to all the Bishop's injunctions and pennances, declaring himself a true penitent according to the Devotion of that Age.  
Not long after Kenneth having been at a Town called Ferdune, to visit the Relic; of Bishop Palladius, wena little out of his way to Lodge at the Castle of Fethercarn, where he was entertained by Fewella the Lady thereof, whose Son Cruthlint he had put to Death; she was askin to Malcolm duff, who was murdered, and to Constantine and Grime who were defrauded of their right by Kenneths New Law; For all these injuries this Lady had long conceived a mortal hatred against the King, (though she did not yet certainly know how Malcolm came by his Death,) and understanding he delighted in curious buildings, to execute her purpose, she caused a Tower to be made next her own Lodging in the Castle, which was covered with Copper finely engraven with Flowers and Images, and hung with Cloth of Arras very richly; behind the hang divers Cross Bows were fixed, with sharp Arrows in them ready bent to discharge; in the midst of the room, was placed an admirable brazen Image exactly resembling the Person of Kenneth, holding in his hand a curious Golden Apple Gloriously beset with precious Stones, contrived with such extraordinary Art, that as soon as any one should take hold, or remove it never so little, the Crossbows would immediately discharge all their arrows at him with great violence.  
Fewella having provided this Bloody present fo● the King, she after dinner desired him to go into th●● inner room; being entered, he was surprised with the sumptuousness of the Furniture, at last viewing the Image, he demanded what it signified, Fewella replied, The Image represented his Highness own Person; and the Golden Apple so richly set with Smaragds, Jicinths, Saphires, Topazes, Rubies, Turkisses and other precious Stones; She had provided as a gift for him, humbly beseeching him, to accept thereof though not worthy to be presented to a Person of his High Honour and Dignity; she than withdrew on one side to avoid the danger; the King continued admiring the beauty of the Apple, and attempting to take it with his hand more particularly to observe it, the Cross bows discharged the Arrows, so directly upon him, that he fell down stark dead upon the ground. Fewella seeing him fall, got out at a back door, and flying into the adjoining Woods where she had ordered Horses to wait for her, escaped out of danger before the King's Death was discovered; His Servants waited long for his return in the outward Room, but he not coming, they first rapt softly, and than more loud; but no body appearing they suspected the worst, and broke open the Doors, where they found the King dead on the Floor; upon which an outcry being raised Fewella was searched for in all places, as the Author of this horrid deed, but could never be heard of; some judged that Constantine conveyed her into Ireland, for the desire he had to succeed, because when the King's Death was known, he procured the assistance of all his Friends for attaining the Crown, according to the Ancient Ordinance of the Realm, which he said could not be abrogated by the private Authority of Kenneth or any other. This miserable end had Kenneth in the year 1003.  
XLII. Constantine the fourth, the Son of King Cullen was next Crowned King, in which year, were found a, multitude of fishes upon the Coasts of Bucquan left by the Sea, which putrifying, caused great sickness. The Moon appeared like Blood terrible to behold; in England & France it reigned stones. Malcolm son of Kenneth, hearing that Constantine had usurped the Crown contrary to the late Statute, gathered all the Forces he could, being about ten Thousand, and marched toward Constantine; but finding himself too weak he dismissed his army and went into England, eaving Kenneth his Bastard-Brother to Watch Constantine's motions; between whom a Bloody Battle was fought, at which time a furious tempest of wind drove so violently into the faces of Constauine's men that unable to make resistance they were vanquished, yet had neither side any cause to rejoice, for Constantine and Kenneth happening to Encounter, & fight singly killed each other.  
XLIII. Grime the Nephew of K. Duffe hearing of this Slaughter, mustered up the refrdue of Constantine's Army, and caused himself to be Crowned King, as his Lawful Successor, using friendship toward his Predecessors Friends, and giving Gifts and and Lands to those of Malcolms party; but others who would not be won, he Proclaimed Traitors and seized their Estates. Malcolm having notice of Grimes Coronation, raised an Army and marched toward him, but by the Intercession of some Bishops an agreement was made, whereby Grime was to enjoy the Crown during life, and Malcolm to succeed and to continued Prince of Cumberland with the Lands thereto belonging, till that time; whereby for eight years, peace continued in the 〈◊〉; but Grime from a liberal Prince degenerated into a cruel oppressor, for having put to death divers Lords, to obtain their Lands, he exacted so severely upon his subjects that they were brought into great misery; the Nobility swelling with indignation, appointed some to want on him, and represent their Greivances; Grime having heard their complaints; under pretence of kindness invited them to a Banquet, desighing to have 〈…〉, of which they having notice they fled to Bertha to th● rest of the Nobility, who finding no hope of redrew raised an Army against him; of which Malcolm Prin●● of Cumberland having Intelligence, came out of England (where he was assisting K. Etheldred against the Danes, with an Army of Scots; the Lords beseeched him to ta●pity on their miserable Country, in danger of ruin 〈◊〉 the disorders of Grime, who assenting thereto marche● toward him; a fierce fight ensued, wherein Grimes party were routed and himself slain; it is reported tha● Grime was taken alive, fight courageously, and being much wounded in the head, his eyes were put out of which he died a few days after in great misery, the ninth year of his Reign, 1010.  
XLIV. Malcolm having obtained the Victory, called an Assembly at Scone for electing a new King, who consenting to Crown him, he refused it, unless they would by their Oaths confirm Kenneths' Law about the Succession, to which they agreeing he was Crowned by the name of Malcolm the Second; in his Reign a mighty Army landed in England & chased K. Ethelred into Northumberland who receiving aid from the Scots sought with him, but was overthrown, with great loss, so that despairing of success he fled into Nurmandy; Swain having thus conquered England, resolved to ●oot out all the English Nation, which the Lords of England having notice of, falling on their knees at his Feet, humbly besought him to have compassion of their miserable codition, and though they had formerly been a puissant Nation by Sea and Land, yet they would now be contented if he would only grant them their Lives, and to continued under whatever servitude he would prescribe, dosiring neither Castles, Towns, nor Possessions but only to live with their Wives and Children in their Native Country, at the pleasure of the Conqueror; Swain though of a Cruel nature, yet was somewhat mollified, and allowed them their lives upon these terms, but withal disarmed and made them absolute slays to his Soldiers, yea forced every English man to maintain a Dane in his house for a Spy upon his words and actions, to prevent Conspiracies, who was called in Honour Lord Dane, and after in contempt Lurdain.  
Having so easily subdued England, the Ambition of the Danes spurred them on to invade Scotland in great numbers, between whom and King Malcolm divers bloody Battles were fought; in one of which Malcolms head-piece was beaten so fast on his head that he was carried out of the Field for dead, at length the Scots were so weakened that they were glad to conclude a peace, Malcolm than called a Parliament at Scone, wherein he divided the Realm into Baronies bestowing them upon those who had best deserved in the Wars, or whose Fathers or Friends had been slain, reserving little to the Crown but Commons and Forests, with the Mountain whereon the Marble Coronation Chair stood, and a few other Lands. The Nobility to maintain his Royal dignity granted him and his Successors for ever the Wardship of their Heirs, if they should die before their Children were Twenty one Years old; that he should enjoy the Rents & Profits of their Estates till they were of that Age, and than they were to pay the King one Years Rend before hand; and if they married before Twenty one, it should be with the King's consent, or else they were to compound with him for the same; these and many other good Laws were made, which Malcolm caused to be written in a Book called Regiam Majestatem, by which the People might know how the Realm was Governed.  
Thus did the King abound in divers noble Virtues for some time, so that he might have been reckoned one of the best Princes in Scotland, had not these excellent qualities been slained with the hateful Vice of Covetousness, which caused him to repined at his liberality toward the Barons, and contrive many feigned accusations against the richest, putting some to death, and banishing others to enjoy their Lands; the Nobility seeing none of their lives were safe, conspired to ta●e away his, of which having notice he fled to Glammis but being betrayed by some of his Servants who admitted the Conspirators into his Lodging, he was there sla● in revenge of the death of their Friends. The Murderers fled, but missing their way, the ground being covered with Snow, they came to the lake of Forfaie which was frozen over, and attempting to pass it, the Ice broke, and they were all drowned, yet three Bedies were after found, and being quartered were se● up in several Towns. Thus died King Malcolm, in 1035. At this time on Christmas Day was a great Earthquake in the Town of Sterling, and the ground opening, a mighty stream of water issued out, that carried away a Wood adjoining to the River Forth. In the Summer the Sea came higher into the Land than ere before, without any apparent cause; on Midsummer Day was so whement a Frost that the Corn and Fruits were blasted, from whence a great dearth followed.  
XLV. Duncan the Nephew of Malcoim by his Daughter Beatrice succeeded, who was married to Crinen, Thane or Lord of the Isles, whose Son Duncan was; Malcolm had another Daughter called Doda married to Synel Lord of Glammis, by whom she had Macbeth, a valiant Gentleman but cruel, whereas Duncan was too mild; the beginning of his Reign was peaceable, but when I is remissness in punishing Offenders was observed, it caused many commotions, one of which thus began; Banquo Thane or Earl of Loquebar (from whom proceeded the Royal Family of the Stewards) going thither to gather the King's tributes, and punishing some oftenders severely, the People assaulted him so that he hardly escaped with his Life, robbing him of his money & goods, and wounding him very dangerously; of which complaint being made to the King, the offenders were sent for by a Sergeant at Arms, but to add to their viliany, they first abused, & than barbarously murdered the Officers; after which despairing of pardon, they persuaded one Mackdonald, to be their Captain, and raised an open Rebellion, reproaching the King, and calling him faint-hearted milk sop, fit to govern idle, lazy Monks in a Cloister, than such valiant men as the Scots; the King sent some Forces against them, but they being much Superior in number cut them all of, and beheaded Malcolm their Commander. This overthrow Startled the King, who calling a Council, Macbeth severely reprehending the King's softness and neglect in punishing offenders, declared, that if a full Commission were given to himself and Bancquo, they would engage quickly to vanquish the Rebels, which they accordingly performed, most of them flying from their Captain, who yet being obliged to Fight was quickly routed, and flying to a Castle wherein his Wife and Children were, desired terms for surrendering it; which being denied, to prevent a more cruel death, he first slew Wife & Children & than himself; upon which the Gates being set open, Macbeth entered & beheld this dreadful Spectacle, yet he caused Macdonald's head to be cut of & sent to the King to Bertha, & the Body to be hanged on an high Gibbet.  
Soon after Swain K. of Denmark landed a great Army in Fife, killing and ravaging all before him, whom Duncan meeting with a powerful Army, was utterly discomfited by the Danes, the King flying to the Castle of Bertha; yet Swain Commanded after the Fight that no man should be hurt or wronged, hoping to conquer the Kingdom without more bloodshed, and than besieged the King in the Castle, who sent private notice to Banquo and Macheth to stay with their Forces at such a place till further order. In the mean time Duncan pretended to treat with Swain about surrendering, and fill the Articles were agreed, he freely offered to sand fresh provisions of Victuals to the Enemy's Camp, and mixing the juice of a certain Berry in the oread & drink, they sent a great quantity thereof to the Denish Soldiers, who rejoicing thereat, eat and drunk very he arily, till at length the operation of the berries caused them to fall into a dead sleep, that it was almost impossible to wake them; Duncan than sent for Banquo & Macbeth, who coming speedily to the place, made woeful slaughter among them, some never waking, and those that did were so Giddy they could make no defence, so that of the whole Army only Swain and ten more escaped, and got to their Ships; the greatest part of the Mariners hearing of such plenty came to the Camp, and were slain also, so that Swain could only man one ship wherewith ●he sailed back to Denmark cursing his unhappy Fate. After which a peace was concluded between the Scots and Danes.  
XLVI. Macheth being by his accomplices Proclaimed King, Malcolm called Conmer and Donald called Bane, the two Sons of Duncan fled for fear of the Usurper, the first to England, and the other to Ireland, where they both found kind Entertainment. Macbeth endeavoured to oblige his Nobles with rich Gifts, and executed Justice upon Thiefs, against whom he used this Policy, he induced several of his good Subject, by great rewards, to challenge those who had most oppressed them to fight themat a set time, for a proo●o● the truth of their Accusations, who coming wereseized, and hanged up according to their deserts; he caused the Lords of Cathnes, Southerland, Stranavern, Ross, & others, to be slain for their Seditious Attempts, and enacted good Laws, so that had he had right to the Crown, and continued his Inregrity, he might have been accounted a Gallant Prince.  
But he soon discovered his Sanguine Nature and the words of the three Sifters were never out of his mind, who promised the Kingdom to the Posterity of Banquo, which he resolved to prevent, and to that end invited him and his Son Fleance to Supper, having appointed several Murderers to kill them as they returned home, and accordingly Banquo was slain, but his Son by the darkness of the night escaped, and fled into Wales, upon which Macbeth would feign have had it believed that Fleance himself flew his Father, and made his escape; Fleance grew much in favour with the Prince of that Country, and after with his Daughter, that at length he got her with Child, of whom was bo●● Walter, who in few years discovered a great Spirit and Courage; for one of his Companions upbraiding him with his birth he slew him, and escaped into Scotland, where by his prudent carriage and Valiant Explous, he attained to be Lord High Steward of Scotland, from whose issue proceeded Robert Steward Crowned King of Scolland in 1370.  
Macbeth after this grew terrible, the people judging their lives continually in danger, and he as much suspected them, so that upon some pretended the sign 〈◊〉 other he cut of all he thought endangered him, wherein at length he seemed to take delight, being thereby freed from his Enemies, and enriched by their estates, wherewith he kept a Guard to secure his Person, and ●uilt a strong Castle upon the top of Dunsinnan Hill, so ●igh as to over look all the Countries round about, which being chargeable, he Commanded the Lords of every ●hire to come and assist therein; at length it came to ●he turn of Macduff Thane of Fife, who fearing the King would seize him as he did others, sent his workmen & Provisions, but did not appear himself, which much offended Macheths, who said, I perceive this man will never ●hey my Command till he be rid with a bridle, and that I will ●ake care to provide for him; neither could be ever en●ure him afterwards, fearing he might one day do him 〈◊〉 mischief, and had put him to death, but that a Witch whom he much credited assured him he should ●ever be slain by a man born of a Woman, nor be Vanquished till Bernans Wood (which was some Miles of) ●hould come to Dunsinnan Castle, which gave him such confidence, that he now acted without dread of any ●anger, since he thought it impossible he should ●ere●her slain or overcome.  
Macduff finding his condition very uncertain, resolved to go into England to Malcolm Gonmer, and persuade ●im to come and set up his claim to the Crown of Scot●and; Macbeth who maintained a Spy, in every Nobleman's House, had notice of his purpose, and presently ●arched with some Forces to the Castle where Mack●luff resided, thinking to have found him there; the Gates were opened to him, they within suspecting no ●ifchief; but not meeting Macduff, he in a rage caused ●is Wife and Children, with all in the Castle, to be murdered, and than seized his goods and Estate, Proclaiming him Traitor; Mackduff escaped into England, where hearing of the miserable destruction of his house, ●e applied himself to Malcolm, representing the woeful State of the Kingdom by the Tyranny of Macbeth, for which he was mortally hated of the People.  
Malcolm was so moved at his discourse that he fetch a deep sigh, which Macduff perceiving, laboured to engage him to undertake the freedom of his Counrre● having so Just a Title, and the earnest Prayers and work of his Subjects to ass●t him; though Malcolm 〈◊〉 much disturbed at the Calamities of his Country me● yet not cettain whether Macduff were sincere in his Protestations, or were not sent by Makbeth to betray him he resolved to try him further, and replied, I assure you I am truly sorry for the miseries of my Country but though I were never so much inclined to relie●● them, yet by reason of several incurable vices th● Reign in me, I am not a proper Person to perform th● same; for first I am so extreme libidinous, and give so much to sensual pleasure, which is the Foundation of all mischiefs, that if I were made King, I shoul● debauch all your Virgins, Wives and Matrons, 〈◊〉 that my Intemperance would be worse than the Bloody Tyranny of Macbeth.  
Macduff answered; this is certainly a great vice, so many valiant princes have lost both Life and Kingdo● thereby, yet there are Women enough in Scotland, 〈◊〉 if you will be advised; and make yourself King, 〈◊〉 will so order the matter that you shall enjoy your ple● sure to the full, & yet so secretly that none shall kno●● it. Malcolm added, I am likewise the most Cover●● Person upon Earth, so that I shall go nigh to destro most of the Nobles of Scotland by false pretences 〈◊〉 accusations, that I may enjoy their Estates, and 〈◊〉 show what mischief may hap by my insatiate Avarice I will tell you a story; their was a Foz 〈◊〉 having a sore place on his head, it was covered 〈◊〉 with a swarm of Flies who continually sucked his Blood and when one who came by offered to drive the● away, he would not admit it, for (said he) if the● Flies who are now full, and do not suck so enge●● should be driven away, I shall have others lean 〈◊〉 hung rey presently settle in their places, who wo●● suck out the rest of my blood and be far more dangerous than these. Therefore I say, suffer me to remain where I am, jest when I am advanced to the Government my wretched Coverousness should be so grievous, that your present condition would seem easy in comparison of the outrages I should daily commit.  
This, says Mackduff, is a worse fault than the former, for Coverousness is the root of all evil, and for which many Princes have been brought to ruin, yet do but follow my Counsel, and get the Crown, and thou wilt found Gold & Silver enough in Sco●land to satisfy thy most greedy desires. Aye, but says Malcolm, I am so extremely inclined to diffi●ulation, lying, and all kind of deceit, that I baturally rejoice in nothing so much as to betray and deceive those that put trust or confidence in me; now since nothing is more necessary in a Prince than Faithfulness, Truth, and Justice, you found I am hereby absolutely uncapable to Govern any People or Country, and therefore since you have found Remedies for my other notorious vices pray provide a Cloak for this as well as the rest; Nay, replies Mackduff, this is worst of all and here I leave you, and can only lament and say O unhappy Scotchmen, who are plagued with so many great Calamsties, one upon another; ye have one cursed Tyrant who now Reigns over you without any Right or Title, oppressing you with his Bloody cruelties; and this prince who hath Right to the Crown is inrected with Treachery, inconstancy, and other English Vices, that he is no way worthy to enjoy it, for by his own confession he is not only avaricious and lustful, but so false a Traitor withal, that no belief is to be given to one word he speaks; what therefore shall I say? farewell Scotland, farewel my Native Country, farewell for ever, for I shall accounted myself a banished man hereafter, without the lest Joy and Consolation; at which words, the Trears trickled down his Cheeks amain. Being ready to departed Malcolm plucked him back, 〈◊〉 said, be of good comfort Macduff, for I am guilty 〈◊〉 none of these Vices, but have said all this only to 〈◊〉 thee, since Macbeth hath used all manner of Stratagems to get me into his hands, but the more flow 〈◊〉 have seemed in condescending to thy request, she more diligence will I now use in accomplishing the same. Hereupon strictly embracing each other, they entry into an entire Friendship, and fell to consult the best methods to effect their business. Mackduff by Lette● secretly conveyed to the Scotch Nobility engaged them in Malcolms Interests, who being assisted by Edward the Confessor with Ten Thousand men under old Sywa●● E. of Northumberland marched into Scotland, & the people flocking in to him, Macbeth durst not venture a ba 〈◊〉 but fled into Fife, resolving to fortify himself in 〈◊〉 Castle of Dunsinnan, some persuaded him to fly to the 〈◊〉 to gain time, but he had such confidence in the prophecy that he feared nothing. Malcolm followed him so haslily that the night before the Battle he came to Berna● Wood; the next morning he ordered every man 〈◊〉 march with a great bough of a tree in hand, that they might come near their Enemies without being discerned.  
Macbeth seeing them approach in this manner, admired at the meaning, but than he recollected that the prophecy, That Bernan wood should come to Dunsinna● Castle, was now fulfilled. However he marshaled his me● exhorting them to Fight valiantly; but Malcolms Soldiers throwing down their branches, and Mac●eth perceiving their number presently fled, whom Mad● pursued till he came to Lunfannin, when Macbeth petceiving him just behind, leapt from his Horse saying Thou Traitor, what dost thou thus follow me in vain, since 〈◊〉 am not or dained to be killed by any one that is born of a we man? come on therefore and receive the just reward of t●● pains, and therewith he lift up his Sword to have 〈◊〉 him; which Macduff avoiding answered, Nay than to● ●talperiod is at hand, and thy insatiate crueley shall have an ●nd, even as thy Wizards have assured thee, for I am the ●an that was never born of my Mother, but ripped out of her ●omb; and therewith he stepped to Mackbith and flew ●im in the place; than cutting of his head, he brought 〈◊〉 upon a pole to Malcolm. This end had Macheth after ●e had reigned seventeen years, 1058.  
XLVII. Malcolm Conmer thus recovering the Kingdom, was Crowned at Scone, by the name of Maclcolm the 3d. ●nd than called a Parliament at Foreste, where he rewar●ded those who had assisted him against Macbeth, with Lands and Honours, creating many Earls and Barons according to the English mode; Mackduff was created Earl of Fife with three privileges. 1. That the Earls of Fife should ever after put the Crown on the King's head at the Coronation. 2. That they should be placed in the Front of the Battle. 3. That they should have power to determine all causes within their own Jurisdiction, Treason excepted; some add, it was granted, if any of that Family should chance to kill a man, unless it were maliciously, he should be free, paying twenty four Marks. While the King was settling the Realm one Lugtake called the Fool, Cousin to Macbeth, with many of his Adherents was to Scone, and there Crowned but brought Markduff soon dispersed them, Lugtake himself being slain. After this Malcolm having notice that a Gentleman designed to kill him, he took occasion to go a hunting, and being in the Forest he called, this Gentleman apart into the thickest part of the Wood, where the King reproaching him for his traitorous purpose ensidering the many kindnesses he had received, and there with leaping from his Horse, drew his Sword, commanding the other to do the same, and told him that having now convenient time and place, he might try his valour by open force, and not use cowardly treacherry; the Conspirator at this being confounded fell down trembling at the King's Feet, humbly begging pardon for his heinous intent; which the King frankly granted. This year 1066 William Duke of Normandy invaded England, and in one Battle conquered it, killing Harold the Usurper and Sixty Seven Thousand; English with him; pretending a Title to the Crown from the Grant of Edward the Confessor; this K. Edward in his Life time sent for his Nephew Edward, Son of his Brother Edmond Ironside, out of Hungary, whither he had Traveled, and there married Agatha, the Daughter of the Emperor Henry, Sister to the Queen of Hungaria, by whom he had a Son called Edgar and two Daughters; it is said Edward designed Edgar to sueceed him, and would have resigned to him during his Life which the other utterly refused, and Edward dying, when Edgar saw William had subdued the Realm, despairing of recovering his right he went into Scotland with his Mother Agatha and Sister Margaret, and were Nobly received by Malcolm, who soon after married. Margaret; William the Conqueror fearing the effect of this Alliance confined, all the wellwishers to Edgar, which Malcolm denying, War was proclaimed; and William's Forces were defeated several times by the Scots; which at length produced a Peace, and a Cross was set up called the Recress or Kings Cross which divided both Kingdoms. Afterward a Rebellion was raised in Galloway, and Malcolm sent Walter the son of Fleance thither, who gave them a total overthrow. and crushed another insurrection in the Western Isles, for which great services he was Created High Steward of Scotland, whose posterity have retained that surname to this day.  
After the death of William. the Conqueror his Son Rufus repining that the Scots should enjoy so much of the Ancient Dominions of England invaded Northumberland and took the Castle of Anwick, putting all within to the Sword. King Malcolm soon came, and besieged it with a potent Army, and the English being roady to surrender, a Knight came out of the Gates unarmed, but only a Spear, whereon he carried the Keys of the Castle, riding toward the Scottish Camp who being brought 〈◊〉 the King, bowing as if to deliver them, he ran the ●●●ng through the Eye into his Brain, with his Sword, ●ho immediately fell down and died, and by the swiftness of his Horse escaped out of danger; it is related that 〈◊〉 Rufus named this Knight Peirce Eyes, giving him anastate in Northumberland, from whence the Family of ●ircies Earls of that Country are descended. This ●●●ar such dreadful Thunder happened that many men ●●d beasts were slain, & Houses overthrown. In Lothian, ●ife and Angus Trees and Corn were burnt by Fire ●ndled no man knew how K. Malcolm left several Chil●en, but Edgar was the true Heir.  
XLVIII. Donald Bane, who fled to Ireland, hearing ●s Brother Malcolm was dead, returned into Scotland, with the assistance of the King of Norwas, upon conation to have the Possession of the Western Isles) and ●as received by the people as King, being Crowned at ●cone by several of the Nobility, who soon after seeming to repent their rashness, Donald was heard say, That ●f they did not comply fully with him be would befully revenged ●n them, which being told them, turned afterwards to ●●s great disadvantage; for William Rufus sending Dun●an, Malcolms Bastard Son out of England with an Army ●o claim the Crown, when Donald went to encounter ●im, most of his men forsook him, and joined with Duncan; so that he was forced to fly to the Western isles; and Duncan was Crowned King, but soon after murdered by the procurement of Donald, who was ●hereupon restored to the Government; but the Scots being incensed that the Isles were given to the Danes, who had garisoned them, sent to desire Edgar to come ●nto Scotland, who before he would venture, dispatched Messengers to Donald, requiring him to relinquish the Crown, for which he should enjoy the Country of Lohian; Donald hereat enraged slew the Messengers: Edgar aided by the King of England presently ser forward for Scotland, and was met by Doanld with a puissant Army, who were vanquished by Edgar, and Donald taken. Some writ that when the Armies were ready to join, Donalds Soldiers beholding the Banner of St. Cuthbert flying against them, deserted him, so that he was again forced to fly to the Isles, where being seized, he was brought to Edgar, and imprisoned, and soon after died.  
XLIX. Edgar after this Victory went to Edenburg, and was Crowned King. In his Reign was the great Expedition of the Christian princes against the Saracens to the Holy Land for the recovery of Jerusalem; Edgar Reigned nine years, & died in 1103.  
L. Alexander the Fierce, his Brother, succeeded, so called from his rigour in prosecuting Thiefs and Robbers; in the beginning of his Reign, being very devout, the People of Murrayland and Ross, guessing he would not be severe against Offenders, presumptuously robbed and slew their Innocent Neighbours, without respect to Age or Sex; this news roused K. Alexander out of Devotion, to take vengeange on them, which he did by executing a great number; the rest being restrained, conspired his Death, divers of them, by corrupting the King's Chamberlain, being admitted one night through an House of Office into his Lodgings; but he suspecting their design, started out of his Bed, and catching his Sword first slew his Chamberlain, and than six of the Traitors, the rest flying for fear of discovery; yet some of them were after taken, and confessed they were encouraged by the Nobility whom they named; the King marched against them, and routed them, many being taken & executed. Alexander having Reigned seventeen years, died in 1120.  
LIVELY David his Brother succeeded as Lawful Heir to the Crown, who administered Justice, especially to the poor, and restrained those excesses which had debauched the Nation; it is recorded that King David going one day to hunt a Deer in a Forest near Edinburgh, which was than full of Woods and Trees, of a sudden the Dogs had lost the scent, and the noise had ●oused all the Wild Beasts in the Forest, all the King's attendants being dispersed, when he coming alone to ●he foot of a Hill there appeared the fairest Hart that ever was seen, who running in a full career toward the King, startled his Horse so that he run clear away with him the Hart following with suchviolence that he threw both than and Horse to the ground, and as the King held but his hands to defend himself from the Horns of the Hart, a Cross fell miraculously into his hands, at the sight whereof the Hart vanished, being never seen more, neither did any know whether this Cross were made of Mertal, Stone or Wood; which story seems contrived to promote Superstition, and the Priests made use of ●t to persuade him to build an Abbey called Holyrocae House, because the thing happened on Holyrood day, wherein this Cross remained till King David Bruce, who lost it to the English at Durham Field; many Wise Men have blamed the profuse Liberality of this devout Prince to the Church, whereby the Revenues of the Crown were much diminished, which occasioned the destruction of several Princes, who not having wherewith to maintain their Royal Dignities, procured the fall of divers great Families to possess their Estates; sometimes they were forced to lay heavy Taxes on the People to the impoverishing the Realm; otherwhile they have been constrained to invade England, as desperate men, regardless of their Lives; likewise to stamp bad money to the damage of their Subjects; all which mischiefs were occasioned by King David's unreasonable enriching the Church; therefore when K. James 1. saw David's Tomb at Dumfermling, he sighing said, that he was a sore & woeful Saint to the Crown.  
At this time Queen Maud his Wife died, by whom he enjoyed part of Northumberland, Cumberland & Huntingdon, whose death so afflicted him that he never married again; he had by her one Son named Henry, who married Earl Warrens Daughter, on whom he begot Three Sons, Malcolm, William and David, and Three Daughters, Albama, Margaret and Maud; King Henry the first ' of England having no Sons caused all the English Nobility to swear they would receive his Daughter Ma● the Empress for their Sovereign, King David doing the same, and when K. Stephen had usurped the Crown, and sent to require David to perform his Homage for these Three Counties, David replied, that he had all ready given his Faith to Q. Maud, and would not break it for the threats of an Usurper. Stephen hereupon invades Northumberland with Fire and Sword, which the Scots resenting entered England with an Army, routed Stephen's Forcer, taking the Earl of Gloucester and other Lords Prisoners to redeem whom Stephen was obliged to renounce his Right to those countries', of which soon repenting, he again made an inroad into Scotland, but was fully repaid by the Scots and forced to conclude a Peace, 〈◊〉 while after Quen Maud came into England claiming the Crown, which caused great contentions. Mean whil● Prince Henry, David's only Son, died, being exceeding  lamented by his Father, and all his Subjects, and Malcolm the Eldest Son of prince Henry, was proclaimed Prince of Scotland; David falling into a mortal disease desired to be carried into the Church to receive the Sacrament, which having done, he recommended hi● Nephew to the Nobility, and kissed them all, earnestly requiring them to seek the Peace of their Country, and the advancement of the public weal, and than died in 1150.  
LII. Malcolm the Fourth his Nephew of thirted years old succeeded; a prince who credited his education under his Grandfather, being of a modest and virtuous temper, of which some Seditious Spirits taking advantage, endeavoured to dispossess him of the Kingdom, especially one Somerlide, but he was suppressed wi●● the Slaughter of two Thousand of his followers; Ho●● the second of England sent a Herald to him to co●● to ceme to London and do homage for the Counties 〈◊〉 Northumberland, Cumberland, and Huntingdon, as his Grandfather David had done, upon penalty of forfeiting the ●ame; King Malcolm went and performed it, upon condition (say the Scotch Writers) that it should no wise prejudice the Liberties of the Scotch Kingdom. King Hen●y having Wars at this time with Lewis the sixth of France went thither, compelling Malcolm to go with him, thereby if possible to break the Ancient Alliance with Scotland, but having lost many of his men by sickness, he returned into England, & licenced King Malcolm to go home; who calling a parliament at Scone, the Lords reprehended him for bearing Arms against the French their Ancient Allies and Confederates; Malcolm excused it modestly alleging, That he unwarily put himself in to Henry's hand, and what he acted was by constraint, which ●he French King could not take ill when he understood ●he truth of the matter.  
King Henry hearing of this dissension strove to inflame ●t, and calling a Parliament at York, sent for Malcolm ●hither, where he was charged for discovering the secrets of the English Army to the French, for which he said he ought to forfeit the three Counties & tho' Mal●olm refeled all their Allegations by substantial reasons, ●et by King Henrys enforcing them, the Affembly gave Sentence against him; and to make him odious to his Nobility he caused it to be reported that Malcolm had freely renounced all his Title & Interest to those Counties; so that upon his return to Scotland, without knowing any of these slanders, he was besieged in the Castle of Bertha by several of his Lords, but when they understood how he had been abused they raised the Siege. Malcolm hereat incensed, proclaimed War against Henry, 〈◊〉 after much damage on each side an Agreement was made on the former terms, only Nothumberland was resigned to King Henry and his Heirs for ever.  
Several Insurrections were made about this time by ●he Scotch Nobility, but all happily quelled ' to the confusion of their Authors, and the Realm settled in peace, the King wholly applying himself to administer Justi●● and the Nobility being informed that he had made Vow of Chastity undertook to advice him to renoun●● his purpose, but their Arguments could prevail nothing Malcolm alleging that from his tender years he h●● vowed his Virginity to Jesus Christ, who he did to doubt would so provide that the Realm should not● destitute of Worthy Heirs, when it should please 〈◊〉 Divine Majesty to take him to his Mercy; and so spe●● ding the rest of his days in Devotion, and Erecti●● Monasteries, he died in 1163. a Blazing Star with terrible streams appearing for fourteen days together before his death.  
LIII. William his Brother, called for his Singul●● Justice the Lion, was next advanced to the Thro●● After his Coronation he sent to Henry of England to restore Northumberland, as part of his Inheritance; H●● required him to come to London and do homage 〈◊〉 Cumberland and Huntingdon, where he should receive satisfaction; which being done Henry declared the Northumberland was annexed to the Crown, and he co●● make no restitution thereof without the consent of the States, which he would propose the next Parliament & than going into Normandy with an Army he took William along with him and other Scotch Lords; which William agreed to, in hope to have Northumberland quietly delivered, but after a while seeing little probability he obtained leave to return home; to root out those Robbers and Oppressors who had abused his Subjects which having done he sent again to Henry, wh● perceiving he must either satisfy him or expect ope● Wars, by the advice of his Nobles he restored as much of Northumberland as his Grandfather King Malcolm had possessed; but within few years he repent this 〈◊〉 and caused inroads to be made on the Borders of 〈◊〉 land, they doing the like upon England; at length hi● William raised an Army, marched towards Cu●●ber, and one Wing being led by Gilchrist Earl of Angus, who fo● ●s Valdur had married the King's Sister, and the other ●y Roland the King's Cousin.  
The English having no Forces ready, offered a great ●●m to procure delay, but William answered, that he had ●ot begun the War for desire of money, nor had given ●he occasion, being always willing to live of his own; and if Northumbesland his rightful Inheritance were restered, he would cease from all further attempts; King Henry being in France, the English endeavouring to protract time, sand several Messages with Golden promises ●ill at length they suddenly satrounded the Scots Camp, one night, who were so surprised therewith, and likewise by another party, who lay in ambush, that they were forced to fly, William himself being taking prisoner, and conveyed over to Normandy to King Henry, who ordered David Earl of Huntingdon to govern the Realm of Scotland till his Brother William was released, who sent several Bishops and Noblemen into Normandy, to ransom his Brother. At length it was concluded, that King William should swear Fealty to the K. of England, and do homage for the Kingdom of Scotland, as to his Sovereign Lord, and to the Lord Henry his Son; that all the Prelates of Scotland and their Succenors should acknowledge Subjection to the Church of England, and do Fealty to whom the King should appoint; the Earls & Barons to do homage also to King Henry, and his Son. The King of Scots to pay One Hundred Thousand Pound Sterling for his Redemption, one half in hand, and Cumberland, Huntingdon and Northumberland, to be delivered to K. Henry, for securing the rest. Lastly for the trut performance of these Covenants, and that the Scots should raise no War against the English for the future, four of the strongest Castles were delivered into the hands of the English, namely, Berwick, Edinburgh, Roxborough, and Sterling.  
King William being restored to his Realm, one Gilbert of Galloway raised a rebellion, pretending to the Crown, and making great slaughter, and because his Brother reproved him of his Cruelty, he put out his eyes, and 〈◊〉 of his hands; against whom E. Gilchrist was sent with a potent Army, who put them to flight, Gilbert himself scaping into Ireland; this year on Midsumers' day ●e●● so great a Storm of Hail, that it killed many Sheep and small Cattles, and People were beaten down with th● violence thereof. In September, the Sun at noon wa● darkened for two hours, without any Eclipse, Clouds o● other natural cause. In Yorkshire was such terrible thunder, and strange Lightning, that many Abbeys at Churches were burnt. At this time K. William sent 〈◊〉 present his Obedience to the Pope, who rejoicing thereat, returning a Rose of Gold filled with balm, adde● many new Privileges to the Church of Scotland. Soo● after Earl Gilchrist turned his Wife out of Doors, upon suspicion of Adultery, and afterwards strangled her a●● Village near Dundee; at which the King was so enraged she being his Sister, that he seized on all his Estate, a●● proclaimed him Traitor, destroying his Castle to th● ground.  
K. William's Queen dying, he married the Daughter of the Lord Beaumond, who was Son to a Daughter 〈◊〉 William the Conqueror; by this marriage the Peace with England was confirmed, and an Atricle added, tha● neither Prince should harbour any Fugitive or Rebe● who were Subjects to the other; whereby Gilchrist wh● fled into England, was forced to go back to Scotland 〈◊〉 mean Apparel, living with his two Sons in the Woch in great misery, unknown to any by reason of his poo● . Two great Thiefs at this time got into the Western Isles, where having raised assistants, they got a great many Ships together, with which they passed to the Main Land, robbing and spoiling, and than flying 〈◊〉 their ships; the King resolving to suppress these Insolences, sent out a Navy, who burned all their Vessels, an● landing in the Isles, encompassed them on every side, taking and executing most of them upon the Wheel, according to the Civil Law; Returning thence the 〈◊〉 enhanced to espy Gilchrist with his two Sons digging of surfs, and wondering to see two such Gentle Young Men 〈◊〉 meanly employed, Gilchrist with his Bald Head ●ame and fell at his feet saying; If there be any Commiseration in thee most Noble Prince, toward such who by their Offence 〈◊〉 brought into Extremity and have suffered condign punishment for their crimes, I beseech thee for the Love of Christ, who ●id not spare to shed his own most precious Bl●nd, for the Redemption of sinners, to have mercy upon me, and these my Poor and Maser able Sons, who have suffered much sorrow and want with me, though they have not deserved it by committing any fault.  
The King enquiring who he was, and how be came ●nto this wretched state, the tears trickled so fall down 〈◊〉 Cheeks that he could not speak, at length recovering himself, he added, I am Gilchrist (most excellent Prince) ●he most sorrowful creature, who alas have dipped my hands it ●he Blood of thy Family, and was therefore deprived of all my Lands, and Banished with these m● Sons out of the realm, whereupon we continued in England, till Proclamation being, made against Outlaws, we were constrained to return ●ither, where I and my Son have lived by roots all the Summer, and are forced to get our living it the Winter with digging of clods; if thy indignation be now somewhat qualified, commiserate our sorrowful Estate, forgive me my Offences, whereby thou mayst not only gain the honour and same of a merciful Prince, and be highly renowned among all Natious, for that Heavenly Virtue, but mayst likewise expect the mercy of God, showing thyself a follower of Jesus Christ the giver of all Mercy, Grace, and Peace.  
The King moved at these words, and remembering his former good service, restored his Estate to him and his two Sons; Gilchrist continuing obedient, and his Sons dying before him, he left all his Lands to the Abbey of Abirbrothoke which the King had newly founded. In England K. Richard the first succeeded his Father Henry, who resolving to go into the Holy Land, to prevent the Scots from disturbing his Realm, surrendered the four Towns, and the three Counties aforementioned, only the Garrisons to be commanded by the English, David E. of Huntingdon the King's Brother accompanying Richard, where they performed Wonders, and at length returning, Richard dying, K. John succeeded, to whom William performed his homage; but John requiring him to go over and assist him against France, he refused it, whereupon John declared all the aforesaid Lands to be forfeited to the Crown of England, and caused a great booty to be fetched out of Scotland, which had occasioned open Wars, if the English Lords had not obliged King John to make restitution, they being loath for to engage against Scotland and France at once.  
This Winter proved so frosty that no Plough could enter the ground till March; Ale was Frozen in the House; and Cellars so that it was sold by weight, from Twelve-tide till February, were terrible Earthquakes continually. King John now raised another quarrel against the Scots, but at length Peace was established on condition that Margaret and Isabel, Daughters to King William, should after nine years be married to Henry & Richard the Sons of John, and if one died the other should succeed to the Crown, for which William gave a considerable Dowry with his Daughters, and nine Scotch Noblemen were delivered to K. John for true performance. K. William returning, came to Bertha, where such a flood arose by the inundation of the two Rivers Tay and Almond, that the Walls were beaten down, abundance of People drowned, with such lamentable Cries and Shrieks as if the Town had been suddenly surprised; and so violent was it, that though the King, his Queen, and part of his Family escaped, yet his Youngest Son John, the Nurse, and above Thirty Women and Servants were overwhelmed therein. The City being thus destroyed, the King built another which he called Perth, now St. Johnstone; and died. 1213. The year before, dreadful Comets were seen, one appearing before the rising Sun, the other at its setting. 〈◊〉 Northumberland a Cow Calved a Monster, and the ●ead and neck resembling a Calf, the other parts ●ke a Colt; and likewise there was two Moons visible ●t once.  
LIV. Alexander the second his Son succeeded and called a Parliament at Edinburgh, he Ordained many good Laws, at this time the English Barons being in Arms against K. John, Lewis the French King's Son came over to assist them, of which Alexander having notice marched with a great Army toward London, to join with Lewis; at length things being settled in England Alexander went with Lewis to France, where the Ancient League was renewed between both Nations, with this addition, that neither Prince should entertain the Enemies of the other, nor marry any stranger without acquainting the other therewith, which being ratified, Lewis and Alexander returned to England, and K. John dying, Henry his Son succeeded, who procured Pope Innocent in a general Council at Rome wherein were 412 Bishops and 800 Abbots, to accuse both Lewis and Alexander, with all that favoured their cause, and soon after Cardinal Guallo came into England upon that account; so that Lewis was forced to compound for his absolution with a great sum of Money, and Alexander marched home, but was followed by K. Henry, who finding himself too weak to engage, returned back, Alexander following him into Northumberland and taking Carlisle; after which K. Henry being reinforced, took Berwick, and likewise he ruined all that Country, but at length by the Mediation of the Bishops, Peace was concluded, and likewise the places restored, and Alexander freed from the Pope's Curse.  
But Guallo not forgetting the main business, summoned all the Prelates of Scotland to Anwick, to receive full absolution, which he was resolved they should not have without a good round sum, which some paid, but others refused; the Recusants Guallo summoned to Rome who going thither, made such heavy complaint against him that at his return he was fined; next year a Legate came from the Pope with Bulls to raise money against the Saracens, and having gathered a considerable sum he spent it in Riot and Debauchery, pretending when he came to Rome that he was Robbed by the way. In a short time another was sent on the same errand, of which Alexander having notice, called a Council to advice about it, in which one of the Bishops used such cogent arguments against admitting him, that the Legate was not received into the Realm. Shortly after one Ross raised a Rebellion, burning the Town of Innerness, put the E. of Bucquain, took him and his two Sons, striking of their heads, and sent them to the King. Than the People of Cathness seized upon their Bishop called Adam, for cursing them for refusing to pay their Tithes, scourging him with Rods, and than setting fire to his House, burned him in his own Kitchen, for which the King himself marched against them, and taking fo●● hundred, caused them all to be hanged, that there might be no succession, ●e ordered all their male Children to be gelded, the place where it was done, being called Stone Hill to this day; the Earl of Cathness because he did not assist the Bishop, nor endeavour to punish the Offenders, was deprived of his Earldom a fine paid, was again restored to them, yet soon after he himself was slain by one of his servants, whom he had hardly used, and his House burnt over him to prevent discovery, and Patrick Earl of Athol had the same fate, being slain in his Castle, and burnt. Next year K. Liwis of France desired aid of Alexander for his Journey to the Holy Land, who sent him divers choice Bands of Soldiers, under three valiant Leaders, but the greatest part perished in the Land of Egypt, either by Sword or sickness.  
LV. Alexander the third his Son, succeeded, not above nine years old; when he came to be Crowned, great ●●●n●ion are se among the Nobility, because by the observation of the Stars it was an unfortunate day; others alleged that he ought first to be made a Knight; at length the difference grew so high that to quiet it the Earl of Fife on a sudden set the Crown on the King's head being in a Marble Chair, disregaring all Superstitious Omens; in his second year (saith the Monkish Historian) the Prelates and Barons caused the bones of Queen Margaret the King's Grandmother to be taken up, and put into a Silver Shrine, which being carried toward her Tomb when the bearers came against the Sepulchre of her Husband K. Malcolm, they were not able to proceed further, till an old man advised them to take up his bones likewise, and than they carried them to the place where they now remain, and were in great veneration with the People. He adds, that at this time a Monk of M●bross, was admonished in a Dream that he should found part of the true Cross whereupon Christ was Crucified, near Peplis in Lothian, enclosed in a Case whereon was Engraven St. Nicholas; when the Case was opened, the Cross was found within it, whereby many Miracles were wrought; not far from thence was found a stone Chest, curiously wrought, wherein were certain bones wrapped up in silk, but not known whose they were; The King built an Abbey, where this relic was found, which no doubt was the intent of inventing these Miracles.  
Alexander renewed the Peace with the English, and married Margaret K. Henry's Daughter at York; and being informed, that the Earls of Monteith, Athol, and Cumins, had committed many violences upon his Subjects in his minority, he summoned them to appear before his Judges, and they refusing, were for the contempt proclaimed Traitors, put too the ●or●; to revenge which they conspired to seize the King, keeping him prisoner at Sterling; at length an agreement was make; the next year was so great a Dearth by reason of rain in the harvest, that the People were miserably vexed with Famine, upon which Acho King of Denmark took occasion to invade the rest of the Western Isles, some o● them having been possessed by the Danes from King Edgar's time, soon reducing them, arrived with a great Army, taking the Castle of Air by siege, and foraging the Country; at which young Alexander being surprised, as doubting his own power, to prolong the time by treating of Peace, sent Ambassadors to the Camp of Acho, who required such unreasonable conditions that perceiving nothing but a Battle must decide the controversy he raised an Army of Forty Thousand Men, and marching against Acho, the Danes were routed with the slaughter or Twenty four Thousand, but not above Five Thousand Scots; Acho's Nephew was slain among them, he himself with a few others escaping to the Castle of Air, where he had the ill Tidings, that his Navy of 150 ships was destroyed by tempest, and not above four saved; the Mariners who escaped on shore being likewise cut of by the Country People, so that few got away. Acho astonished at two such misforturnes at once, sailed with his small Company into the Isles of Orknay, where he sent to Denmark for fresh Forces, but before they arrived he died there, so that all those great preparations came to nothing. The same day that Acho died Alexander Prince of Scotland was born. Magnus' his Son succeeded Acho, from whom the Scots won all the Islands that was possessed by the Danes for 167 Years past.  
At this time Lewis of France made another expedition into the Holy Land, Alexander sending a thousand Scots to his aid, commanded by the Earls of Carrick, Athel, and others, most of them died in the Voyage, and the Earl of Carrick among the rest, leaving only one Daughter, named Martha, Heiress to his Estate, who was after Married without the King's consent, to Robert Bruce Son and H●ir to Robert B●●ce Lord of Anandale in Scotland, and of Cle●●land in England whose Mother was Isabel second Daughter to David Earl of Huntingdon, Brother to William King of Scotland; of this Marriage was Born Robert Bruce who afterwards for want of Heirs to King Alexander attained the Crown of Scotland.  
Queen Margaret, Alexander's Wife, and Daughter to King Henry the Third died about this time, by whom he had two Sons Alexander and David, and one Daughter named Margaret, who about three Years after was Married to Aquin K. of Norway; David died before her, and Prince Alexander soon after without issue, though Married to the Daughter of the E. of Flanders; his Daughter Margaret Queen of Norway deceased likewise the same Year, leaving only one Daughter behind her, which struck the King with great grief, however by the advice of his Nobility he Married another Wife, the Daughter of the Earl of Champaign in France; but the same Year as he was riding full speed upon a fierce Horse at Kinghorn, the Horse leapt over the Clift into the Sea, & broke his neck. The day before his death the E. of March demanded of one Thomas Lermond (called Thomas the Rymer, and accounted a notable Prophet) what weather would be to morrow, Thomas answered, that to morrow before noon should hap such a dreadful Tempest that the like was never seen before in Scotland. In the Morning the Sky was clear, and noon drew near without sign or storm of Wind, the Earl of March sent for Thomas, telling him he was mistaken, Thomas alleged it was not yet past noon. At that present instant a great Pest Arrived at the Earl of Marche's Gare with News of the King's sudden Death. This is that fearful Wind said Thomas, which shall bring Calamity and Trouble to the Realm.  
In this King's Reign, an infinite number of Worms destroyed the Fruits, and Herb●; the Waters of Forth and Tay, overflowed many Towns and Villages; a Blazing Star appeared, of so vast a magnitude that it wa● seen at noon day; Winds with Hail Stones overthrew many houses; and dreadful Fires burned down Aberden, Perth, part of Lanerick, with many Towns and Villages in Lothian, and a great Pestilence reigned in Scotland; it was remarkable that when Alexander at his last Marriage was leading up a dance in the company of the Lords, and Ladies, there appeared in the presence of them all, a Skeleton, of Skin and bone, like the Picture of Death, terrible to behold, which caused such a Consternation that it broke of their Mirth & Jollity.  
Alexander leaving no issue behind him, great mischiefs and disorders happened, at length it was concluded to Elect four Governors: but Edward the first of England, perceiving he had now a fair opportunity to conquer Scotland, sent to propose a match with the Daughter of Norway (say the Scotch Historians, who writ very partially against King Edward) which being agreed upon, two Noble Scotch Knights were sent to Norway, to fetch the Bride, but she was dead before they came, upon which great contention arose between Alexander's Kinsmen about their right to the Crown; three especially pretended a Title thereto, John Baliel the son of Margaret  Daughter of David Earl of Huntingdon, Brother to K. William; Robert Bruce, as descending from Isabel the youngest Daughter, of Earl David; and John Lord Hastings, likewise descended from this youngest Daughter, who was Married to his Father Henry Hastings; the Governors consulted about the matter, but not concluding upon any resolved to leave the decision of it to K. Edward, desiring him to come to Berwick on that account.  
At his coming he appointed Twelve Scotch Lawyers, to join with so many English, of the most learned in both Kingdoms, to consider maturely of all their claims, and make report, and the mayor part judged the right to be in Robert Bruce. The Scotch writers report that Edward proposed to Bruce, if he would swear to hold the Crown of him as his Sovereign Lord, he would declare in favour of him, otherwise not, but he affirming that he valued the Liberty of his Country above his own private advantage, and would not be●tray its Liberties into the hands of the English, which had hitherto been free. King Edward made the same offer to John Balliol, who accepting those conditions, on the day appointed he gave Judgement in behalf of John Balliol, upon which (say the Scotch Historians) the Earl of Gloucester an English Lord of great prudence spoke thus to him. O King, Remember what you have done this day, in refusing to give a Righteous Sentence in this matter, you have now given an unjust Sentence against a King, but than shall Just Judgement be pronounced on you.  
LVI. John Balliol was soon after Crowned in great State at Scone, and the next year came to Newcastle, where he did homage to King Edward for the Realm, of Scotland against the consent of the Nobility, say the Scots, since by this means he seemed to bring the Realm into servitude to the English, neither had he much Felicity therein, for King Edward commanding him by Virtue of this homage to assist him with all his power he could raise against France, King John repenting his rashness, sent to Edward and renounced his homage as done without the consent of the three Estates. K. Edward gave this short answer to the Ambassadors, Since we perceive your King will not come to us, tell him we intent shortly to visit him, and declared John to have forfeited his Crown and Dignity, and concluding a Peace with France, he procured the Friendship of Robert Bruce, who delivered him all the Castles that he held in Scotland, upon promise, as it was thought, of making him King; on the other side, John renewed the Ancient League with France, and a marriage was concluded between the Eldest Daughter of Charles Earl of V●lsis, Brother to King Philip, and Edward Balliol the Son of John, and Forty Thousand Crowns were to be paid to John as for her Dowry. In the mean time K. Edward came into Scotland, like an Inundation, carrying all before him, first taking Berwick by storm with so much blood shed, that the Scotch writers say it drove the Miles at low Water, above Seven thousand people being slain in one day, with most of the Nobility and Gentry of Lothian and Fife; than he routed the Forces of Balliol at Dumbar, occasioned, say they, by treachery of Robert-Bruce, who persuaded all his Friends in the Scotch Army, to flee upon the first onset, which so discouraged the rest, that they threw down their Arms, and were slain without resistance; after this victory Bruce applied himself to King Edward, to perform his promise of settling him in the Throne, to whom it is said Edward answered, dost thou think we have nothing else to do, but to Conquer Kingdoms, and give them to thee? Upon which Robert retired in discontent to his Lands in England; King Edward than took the Castles of Edinburgh, & Sterling, in the last of which by the procurement of John Cumin, John Balliol and his Son Edward were delivered into his hands; King John laying aside his Royal Robes, presented himself before Edward, with only a white wand in his hand, and resigned up the Kingdoms into his hands, renouncing all his Right and Title thereto for ever; which was confirmed by a Charter, under the hands of the Nobility, who all swore Allegiance to King Edward of England, and delivered all the Forts and Castle● into his hands, John and his Son were carried Prisoners to London, but soon after the Father was released and sent to Scotland, who preceiving he was hated by the people, retired to his Ancient Inheritance in Normandy, where falling blind, he died in a good Old Age, but leaving his Estate to his Son Edward, and who being released resided with his Father before his Death.  
After this King Edward pursued his Quarrel against France, leaving Hugh Cressingham Governor of Scotland. The Lords of Scotland not sooner heard he was passed the Seas but they made an Insurrection, choosing 12 noblemen to be Governors, in their several Countr●●; about which time William Wallace, a young man 〈◊〉 large stature, and an inveterate enemy to the English, assembling a great number of Scots, performed many valiant exploits, taking divers Towns and Castles, and invading Northumberland; of which Edward having notice again entered Scotland, and at Falkirk obtained a considerable victory. A while after the Scots discomfited a party of the English, with which news Edward was so enraged, that gathering a mighty Army, he marched thither again, the Scots flying before him, none daring to take Arms but Wallace and his accomplices, who shelterd themselves in the Woods, so that the English marched quite through Scotland, wholly subduing they without opposition, and to secure them from rebelling for the future, and make one people of both Nations, he abolished all the Law and Statutes of the Realm, barnt all Records and Books, both Sacred and common, commanding the Scots to use the Liturgy of Sarum, and removed the Marble Coronation Chair from Scone to London, all the Nobility taking new Oaths of Allegiance to Edward, who returned to England with Triumph.  
He was not sooner out of sight, but the Scots entered into new Practices, for John Cumin, called the Read, and Robert Bruce, conferring together about the deplorable state of their Country, it was concluded to endeavour the Freedom thereof; and that Eruce should be King, and Cumin to Inherit Brucl's Estate; of this Agreement Indentures were drawn with their hands and Seals thereto, after which Bruce went into England to prevent suspicion in King Edward, for it was thought he would have put him and his Brethrens to death, if he could have got them all into his power; after Bruce's departure Cumin suspecting the success of their design, or at lest that he should be of little account when Bruce had once attained the Kingdom, he thereupon privately sent the counterpart of the Conspiracy under Bruce's Hand and Seal to King Edward, who judging it to proceed from envy, disregarded it, yet shown it to Bruce, enquiring whether it were his hand; Bruce stoutly denied his knowledge thereof, desiring that he might peruse it one night, thereby to discover the Forgery and Malice thereof, which if he did not, he was willing to loose all his Estate in England, to which the King consented; after he was gone the Earl of Gloucester sent to Bruce's Lodgings twelve Single Pence, and two sharp Spurs, which Bruce took for a Warning to be gone Instantly, and causing a Smith to Shoe three Horses backward, that their Track should not be perceived in the Snow, which than lay on the Ground, he went out of London about midnight with only two trusty Servants, so that by Morning he was out of Edward's reach, who sent to overtake him, and in seven days he came to Anandale, where meeting with his Brother, he declared what danger he was in by the Treachery of Cumin; at that Instant they met with one of Cumins Servants going to King Edward with Letters, signifying that if Bruce were not presently put to Death great mischiefs would the● hap.  
But having Examined the Messenger and understood that his Master was at the Priory at Dumfrieze, they flew him, and than Posting thither, Bruce found Cumi● in the Choir of the Church, and charging him for such usage, hot words arose, when Bruce drew his Sword, and struck Cumin into the belly, and flying out of the Church met two of his Friends, who seeing him in disorder inquired the reason; I believe, said he, that Cumin is slain; what, say they, hast thou attempted so great an Act, and left it doubtful? and going into the place where Cumin lay wounded, they asked him whether he thought he had his death's wound, or hoped to recover with the helps of a good Surgeon, he told them he doubted not but he might if he come in time; whereupon they gave him three or four deadly wounds more, wherewith he presently gave up the Ghost; at this time William Wallace was betrayed to King Edward, and being brought to London was Hanged, and his Guarters set up in divers Towns in Scotland. He was one of the most Gallant Persons of that age, and adorned by the Scots, because he would never acknowledge Subjection to the English; it is said, when he went to School, his Master taught him these two Verses which he never forgot.  

Dico tibi verum, Libertas optima rerum.  
Nunquam servili sub nexu vivito, fili.   

Remember Son that Liberty  
Is a most happy thing.  
Take heed that into slavery  
Thyself thou never bring.   
LVII. Kobert Bruce having thus slain Cumin procured a pardon from Rome that none might scruple to aid him on that account, for obtaining the Crown; soon after having got his Friends together, he caused himself to be Crowned King at Scone, though at first he had few to assist him, for King Edward having notice of his designs sent against him, who soon discomfited King Robert and his small company, so that he was forced to secure himself in Woods and Desert places, most of his Friends forsaking him, and his Queen was taken prisoner, and sent to London; at length he had some assistance from the isles, wherewith he took Carrick Castle and other places, which encouraged others to join with him; upon which King Edward marched toward Scotland with strong Forces, designing utterly to subdue the whole Country, but by the way fell sick and died. Edward the Second called Caernarvan succeeded him, who pursuing his Father's Enterprise, summoned all the Scotch Nobility to Dumfreize to Swear Allegiance, some of whom appeared, and others refused, because they heard that he was drawn away by ill Counsel, to the great grief of his people, which was like to occasion disturbance in England. King Robert still increased. defeating several small Parties of the English 〈◊〉 length King Edward came into Scotland with an Army of one hundred and fifty thousand foot, and almost as many horse (say the Scotch Historians) besides Servants, Ostlers, Women, and Lackeys, many carrying their whole families to settle there after the Conquest; King Edward brought a Carmelite Friar called Robert Baston with him to describe the manner of it the place of Battle was Bannocks Bourn, where King Robert with thirty Thousand Men vanquished this mighty Army, killed ten Thousand, among whom was the Earl of Gloucester and two hundred Knights, about four Thousand Scots being slain; the Friar was taken, and commanded by King Robert to Writ the Victory of the Scots, who thereupon made certain Rude Verses beginning thus.  
De Planctu cudo, metrum cum carmine nudo.  
Risum retrudo, dum tali Themat ludo.  
Thus Englished;  
With barren Verse this Rhyme I make,  
Bewailing whilst this Theme I take.  
After this Robert called a Parliament, wherein the Crown was settled upon him and his Heirs, if his Son David should dye without Heirs, that Robert Stewart should succeed. Soon after King Edward made another expedition into Scotland, but with ill success, and after that a third, but with as bad Fortune as the former; at length Ambassadors were sent by Edward to conclude a Peace, by whom it was agreed, that K. Edward should renounce all his Right and Title to the Kingdom of Scotland, and declare it to be as free as in the Reign of King Alexander the third, and for this renunciation and damages done to the English, King Robert was to pay thirty thousand Marks Sterling; for confirming this Peace David Bruce Prince of Scotland married Jane the Sister to King Edward; after which King Robert departed this Life in 1329. A Prince who mounted the Throne over the carcases of his nearest Kindred, encountering with the greatest difficulties of a Country oppressed by Powerful Enemies, yet bravely struggled with all disadvantages, and left behind him the Characer of a great Captain, and a prudent Prince. Upon his Deathbed he advised his Nobility. 1. Not to make an absolute Lord over the Isles, jest it might encourage Rebellion, which would not be easy to quell by reason of difficulty of approach, they being encompassed by the Sea. 2. Never if possible to join in a set Battle against the English, nor venture the Kingdom upon the chance of one Fight, but rather to skirmish at advantage, that some reserve might remain. 3. Not to make any long Peace or Truce with England, since Idleness caused sloth and Cowardice. He desired his Heart might be carried to the Holy Land, whither he had designed to have gone, which was undertaken by Sir James Dowglass, who had therefore the Bloody Heart in his Arms; but he by the way assisting the Spaniards against the Saracens in Arragon was cut of with all his company. This end had this Valiant Knight, whom the Scots report to have got the Victory Fifty and Seven times against the English, and Thirteen against the Turks.  
LVIII. David Bruce seven years old, was next Proclaimed King, during whose Minority Earl Thomas Randol was appointed Governor of the Realm. Who finding the Country much impoverished, sent Ambassadors to King Edward the third who concluded a Truce betwixt both Nations for three years, after which he studied to maintain Justice and Equity, ordering every man to provide himself Arms, and to extirpate Thiefs and Robbers; he commanded Saddles, Bridles, and other Furniture to be left abroad Night and Day, and if any were stole, the Sheriff of the County was to produce the Thief, or else pay the value; which cleared the Kingdom of all Vagabonds and Idle Persons. It happened that a Country Clown, hid his own plough Irons, and pretended they were stolen, thereby to recover the value from the Sheriff, but the cheat being discovered, he was Hanged according to his deserts.  
King Edward envying the flourishing state of Scotland, sent a Monk who poisoned the Governor, in the mean invaded the Borders, but it seems he venom was of such a nature as not to kill suddenly, so that though he were so sick, as not able to ride nor go, yet he caused himself to be carried into the Field, in an Horse litter, in the head of a considerable Army, which being unexpected, Edward sent an Herald, pretending to treat him, but really to observe the posture of the Scotch Camp. The Governor putting on his best Robes, and sitting in a Chair, as if recovered from his distemper, ordered him to be brought in, who requiring some unreasonable Conditions, he boldly answered, That in a short time he did not doubt to make it appear; and than bestowing all the Rich Robes he had on upon the Herald, sent him back again. King Edward by this, supposing the Governor was in health, returned to England, ordering the Monk (say the Scots) to be slain for deceiving him; in the mean time the Governor returning homeward, died the of venom administered by the Monk. After whom the Earl of March and Mar were chosen Governors, at which time Edward the Son of King John Balliol, was persuaded to come from France by Lorison, Cumin Earl of Albol, and other banished Scots, and claim the Crown of Scotland, and landing in England King Edward assisted him with Six Thousand Men, upon Condition to hold the Kingdom from him, as his Sovereign Lord; with these Forces he entered Scotland, defeating and slaying Alexander Seaton, and his company who were sent against him; encouraged with this success, they marched forward, but were met with by two great Armies raised by the Governors; however Balliol resolved to encounter them, though much inferior in number; the Scots disdaining their weakness, fell to dancing, drinking and revelling without fear; which Balliol understanding, assaulted their Camp at midnight, killing all till they came to the Earl of Marr's Tent, whom they slew in his Bed fast asleep, making a woeful slaughter of the rest, so that ●he dead Bodies lay on heaps. The English were so furious that, had not Balliol ordered all his own party to wear a white cloth about their arms, they would have destroyed one another; there were slain of the Scots, above three thousand Lords and Gentlemen, and Sixteen Thousand others.  
LIX. Edward Balliol after this great Victory finding the Nobility and Commons coming in great numbers to his assistance, caused himself to be Crowned King in 1332. King David, than nine Years Old, was conveyed into France with his Queen Jane Sister to K. Edward, and entertained by King Philip, with whom he continued nine Years. After this some Noblemen who were for King David having notice that King Edward resided in Saint Johnstons, they suddenly besieged the Town, whereupon the people of Galloway under the Lord Maxwel invaded and spoiled the Lands of those Lords who were at the Siege, which caused them to raise it, and enter into Galloway with Fire and Sword; King Edward having fortified Saint Johnstons, and leaving the Earl of Fife Governor, marched into the Country with his Army, before whose return his Enemies took it, Imprisoning the Earl of Mar, beheading Andrew Murray: and others increasing their Forces, encountered with King Edward at Anandale, where after a Bloody fight, Balliol was routed, himself flying upon a Horse without a Bridle. While the Scots were thus ruining one another, King Edward thought it a fit opportunity to Conquer both, and besieged Berwick by Sea and Land; for four months many skirmishes happened, in one of which William the Governor was taken Prisoner, at length the besieged were so necessitated for provisions, that they promised to surrender if not relieved in six days, and the Governor delivered his Eldest Son Thomas as security for performing the same. Just than a mighty Army of Scots marched into England under Archibald Dowglass the new Governor, of which King Edward having notice, sent to the Governor to deliver the Town or else his two Sons should be instantly hanged up before his Eyes; causing a Gibbet to be erected, and his Sons to be brought thither, which Sir Alexander beholding, was in extreme perplexity, natural affection inclining him to save his Childrens Lives; yet his Faith and Loyalty to his Prince and Country restrained these first thoughts; but at length Fatherly tenderness had prevailed, had not his Lady and the Mother of his Children Fortified his Resolution.  
With such Arguments this Noble Lady persuaded her sorrowful Husband to act nothing unworthily of himself out of commiseration to his Sons, who were accordingly put to death; the Governor resolved to revenge their Blood, by fight with King Edward, and thereby relieve the Town; and marching toward him, contrary to the advice of his Commanders; A great Battle was fought at Halydown Hill, wherein the Scots were Vanquished, Fourteen Thousand slain. King Edward than settled Edward Balliol in the Kingdom, and a Parliament being called at Perth, he was confirmed King, most of the Nobility Swearing Allegiance to him, and had most of the Fortified Towns and Castles delivered to him, rewarding with Lands and Command those who assisted him in recovering the Kingdom; he than used means to get Robert Stewart into his hands, being sensible of his Right to the Crown, next to King David, but he being about Fifteen years old was conveyed to Dumbarton Castle, and joyfully received by Malcolm.  
Next year King Edward invaded Scotland by Sea ●nd Land, but no Enemy daring to appear, he returned ●aking Edward Balliol with him, and leaving David Cumin Governor, who undertook to rule both in the name of King Edward and Balliol, and seized all the Lands of Robert Stewart in Murray and Bucquain, who in revenge got his Friends together, and seized the Castle of Dunon, slaying all the English therein, and increasing ●n Power, reduced a great part of the Country to the obedience of King David; after which coming to Edinburgh the Earl of Murray and Robert Stewart were chosen Govenours; this resolution recalled King Edward of England who marched thither, and took the Town of Saint Johnstons, which he Fortified with Bulwarks and Walls, and than went home again; soon after Robert Stewart besieged it, and after a long Siege had it delivered into his hands; as likewise Edinburgh Castle, by this contrivance; William Dowglass persuaded one Walter Towers to provide a Ship, and to Sail into the Forth as a Merchant with Wine, and coming ashore ●he brought two Tun of Wine with him, which he offered to cell to the Captain of the Castle, the Price was soon agreed on, and the Wine to be brought into the Castle; next morning early Towers comes with his Cart, and the Gates being opened as soon as he entered ●in, he plucked out a pin, upon which the Cart and Tuns fell down in the Passage, so that the Gates could not be shut again, Towers than giving notice to Dowglass and his companions by the sound of a Horn, they presently arrived, and killed the Porters, with all the rest in the Castle, thereby becoming Masters thereof; other places were daily surrendered, so that in a short time all Scotland was recovered, the English and all Baliol's partakers with himself being compelled to go back to England, he made full resignation of his right, to Kin● Edward.  
Next year King David, his Queen, with divers Scot● and French Lords arrived in Scotland in great Triumph, and soon after the Scots made inroads in England, carrying away rich booty, being incited thereto by the French King, to withdraw King Edward from Calais which he than closely besieged. At length Dav● with an Army of Sixty Thousand Men marched into Northumberland and thence to Durham, burning all before them, Churches and Chapels as well as other places. John Southerland the Son of David youngest Sister, was than declared Heir Apparent but he soon after dying, Robert Stewart was again received into favour, and his title Recognized to the Crown. Than King David called a Council of his Nobility, and acquainted them that he had promised to transfer the Crown of Scotland to the King of England Son, and his Lawful Heirs, if his Lords would agreed to it but they unanimously answered, that as long as any o● them was able to handle a Sword, they would neve● consent, by which answer David thought himself discharged, and soon after died at Edinburgh Castle, i● 1370. In his 17 year many Birds and Beasts brought forth their young in the Winter, and not in the spring 〈◊〉 Rats and Mice were so numerous as not to be destroyed, and great Inundations happened, which did much d●mage.  
LX. Robert the Second Surnamed Stewart, was nex● advanced and Crowned at Scone, though opposed by the Earl of Dowglass, but for removing all differences 〈◊〉 Marriage was concluded between Eufame Eldest Daughter to King Robert, and James Son to the Earl of Dowglass.  
Robert before he was King, had two Sons by his Wife Eusame Daughter to the Earl of Ross, named Walter and David, but before he married her he kept one Elizabeth Mure instead of a Wife by whom he had likewise three Sons, John, Robert, and Alexander, and seven Daughters; soon after his Queen Eufame dying, he married Elizabeth Mure his old Mistress, that the Children he had by her might be made Legitimate. And a Parliament being called he procured that his Eldest Son John should succeed to the Crown, and his issue after him, & in default to his Son Robert, and Alexander, & if they died without Heirs, than his Sons Walter and David, whom he had by his Queen Eufame, to Reign successively, to which Act all the Nobility were sworn.  
About this time Divers skirmishes happened between the Borderers of England, and Scotland, with various success, and Berwick was taken, but presently retaken from the Scots. In some of those the Earl of Dowglass and the Lord Piercy had notable encounters, as at the Siege of Newcastle, where Five Hundred English were slain, and a Thousand made prisoners; And soon after King Richard the Second invaded Scotland with a great Army under the Duke of Lancaster, & took Edinburgh, but saved it from burning and plundering, for a sum of money paid by the Inhabitants, and returning home, the Scots than entered Northumberland and got a rich booty.  
In this expedition William. Dowglass L. of Galloway gained much honour, whereupon K. Robert gave him his daughter Giles, a Lady of admirable Beauty in Marriage; this William was a very stout man, of a black swarthy complexion, and mighty stature and strength; the Scots report that with only Eight Hundred he fought against three thousand English, of whom he slew Three Hundred in the Field, and took Five Hundred Prisoners. Another time the Scots got an advantage upon the English by policy; In the night several Country follows having bags of Leather like Bladders filled with small stones, ran up and down the English Camp, the Bags making such a rattling noise affrighted the English Horses who breaking their B●ldies fled away through the Fields; the English not daring to come out of their Camp, doubting the sudden assault of their Enemies.  
Charles the Sixth of France now sent to renew the ancient League with King Robert, at which time John Lion, Lord Chancellor of Scotland, was slain by the E. of Crawford because he was so much in favour with the King; After which a Truce was concluded with England, and Robert, being 75 years old, died, 1390. A Prince commended for Justice, but not much for valour, many great actions being preformed by his Captains, few by himself, yet he had this happiness that ruling in turbulent times, and over a martial people, he had no Domestic Insurrections nor Rebellions.  
LXI. John his Eldest Son succeeded, but because his name was thought unfortunate in that Age by the infelicities of the Kings of France, and England, he changed it into Robert, being the third of that name. The Truce with England prevented any quarrel o● that side, but furious dissensions happened among his own Subjects, one of which was very Remarkable; Thomas Dumbar Earl of Murray, and James Lindsay Earl of Crawford finding that two Clans or Families of Irish Scots were irreconcilable, they proposed that Thirty Persons of each side should decide the difference, which being agreed to, they were to fight before the King near St. Johnstons', which they did with such rage and fury that all were slain on one side except one person only, who to save his life leapt into the River Tay, and by swimming over escaped, Eleven of the other being likewise killed; when they first came into the Field there was one wanting of the number, whereupon a Country fellow being loath such notable sport should be spoiled, offered to supply the place for half a French Crown, though unconcerned in the matter.  
A Parliament being called, Robert made his Eldest Son David Duke of Rothsay, and his Brother Robert, who was Earl of Fife, and Governor of the Realm ●uring his Father's indisposition, he created Duke of Albany, they being the first who had the Title of Dukes in this Kingdom. Next year the King contrated a Marriage between the Duke of Rothsay, and ●he Earl of Marches Daughter, but Dowglass envying ●im this honour, by the assistance of the Duke of Al●any caused a revocation of this Marriage in Council; upon which the Earl of March desiring satisfaction of ●he King, had a very slight answer; which so engaged ●im, that he fled into England to Henry L. Piercy, called Hotspur, an utter Enemy to the Douglases; soon after K. Henry 4 entered Scotland with an Army, without doing any damage, giving rich gifts to the Abbeys and Monasteries, and only requiring the Commanders of Forts and Castles, to Hung out his Banner and Arms as he passed by; The year after Annabel Drummond, Queen of Scotland died, whereby the Duke of Roth●ay who had been virtuously educated under her, being ●ow at liberty fell into all manner of debauchery, ravishing Women and Virgins of all Qualities; of which complaint being made to his Father, he ordered his Brother Robert to take him into custody and endeavour to reclaim him; who being glad of this Office, having long designed to Root out his Brother's Family, to make way for his own ambition, he shut him up close in Falkland Castle, designing to starve him to death which was yet a while delayed by a poor woman putting in some Oat Cakes through a Chink, and after she was discovered and murdered, another woman fed him with Milk from her own breast through a long reed, who was also dispatched for her Charity, so that he was constrained to eat not only all the filthy things he could found in the Castle, but his own fingers for hunger, and so at length miserably died.  
The Earl of March and Piercy making several inroads ●nto Scotland, the Earl of Dowglass gathered all the Flower of the Nobility, and Gentry to encounter them, but the English utterly discomfited them, killing and taking Prisoners most of them, among whom was the Earl of Dowglass himself, Mo●●lo ●●●ward,  son to Duke Robert, and divert other Lords and Gentlemen: The Lord Piercy clated with this Victory besieged Cock-calvis Castle, but soon after he was accused for Conspiring against King Henry, and a Battle was sought at Shrewsbury wherein the Earl Dowglass assisted Piercy yet Henry remained Victor, after the loss of divers Gallant Commanders; The Old Earl of Northumberland, Father to Piercy, hearing of his Son's discomfiture fled into Scotland; At that 〈◊〉 K. Robert had an account of the murder of his Son by his Brother Duke Robert, which he had hitherto concealed, and was much disquieted, charging Robert therewith, who utterly denied it, and assured the King he would bring out those who did it; accordingly he brought in some wicked profligate fellows, and hired others of their gang to accuse them of the fact, who being tried before corrupt Judges of Roberts providing, they condemned divers of them as guilty of the Death of the Duke of Rothsay, though they never saw him in their lives.  
Yet did not this clear the Duke from being suspected of the Murder, yea the King himself was much unsatisfied, yet durst not discover it, by reason of the power and policy of his Brother, but rather doubted he would make away his Second Son James, to prevent which, he sent him into France giving him also a letter to the King of England as if he had foreseen what after happened, that if he should fall into the hands of the English, he might procure favour from that King; they were not sooner at sea, but were surprised by an English ship who lay in wait for the Prince; others writ he desired to be landed there, because he was Sea-sick. Being brought to King Henry, he delivered his Father's Letters.  
These Letters being read, after deliberation it was concluded, that James Prince of Scotland should be detained as a lawful Prisoner, since several English Rebels were sheltered in Scotland; yet his Captivity proved his greatest happiness, being educated in all Sciences and accomplishments becoming a Prince and a Gentleman. The News struck his Father K. Robert with grief that he died soon after, in the 16 year of his Reign, 1408.  
After the Death of King Robert his Brother the Duke of Albany was confirmed in his Office of Governor, and the Earl of March by the Solicitations of his Friends restored to his Estate and Honour; about which time one Donald of the isles, being denied in a claim to the Earldom of Ross, raised forces which did much mischief, against whom Stewart Earl of Mar gathered a party, and a Battle was sought, wherein Donald lost nine hundred, and the Earl six hundred men, upon which Donald submitted. King Henry the Fifth, succeeded his Father in England, Proclaimed war against France, and passing over, took young K. James with him, whom he required to persuade all the Scots in service under the French to return to their own Country, for which he promised to remit his Ransom, and sand him with Richeses and Honour into Scotland; to whom James replied, I very much wonder your Highness doth not consider that I have no authority at all over the Scots while I am under Captivity, and have not yet received the Crown, but if I were at liberty and were Crowned according ●o Custom, and had received the Oaths of Fealty and Obedience from my Subjects, I might than prevail somewhat in this matter, and should act what was reasonable, but in the mean time I beseech your Grace to excuse me, and not desire that of me which I am not able to perform. The King satisfied with his Prudent Answer urged him no more in that matter.  
Robert Duke of Albany dying, after he had been Governor Fifteen Years, his Son Mardo or Mordac● Stewart, Earl of Fife and Monteith, succeeded as Governor, wherein he continued Four Years, though unfit for that Office, being insolent in Prosperity, and despairing in Adversity; and so indulgent over his Sons Walter and Alexander, that they committed many horrible outrages; at length Walter being angry that his Father denied him a Falcon, he plucked the Bird from his Fist, and wrung of her neck; the Father moved at his presumption, well, said he, since I cannot rule you, I will bring home one ere long who shall govern us both. After which he used means for redeeming King James, and his Ransom being set one hundred Thousands Marks, one half was paid in hand, and the other discharged in consideration that James Married the Lady Jane Daughter to the Duke of Somerset.  
LXII. James the first of that name being restored to his Liberty, was attended with many English Grandees into Scotland, and received with great rejoicing by his Subjects. After his Coronation he made a Parliament, wherein the Chancellor, Treasurer, and other Officers in the late Governors' time, were found to have alienated most of the Lands and Revenues of the Crown; upon which a Tax was levied of Twelve Pence in the Pound upon all Lands, and four Pence upon every Cow, Ox and Horse for Two Years; this was paid freely the first year, but the next the Commons made such murmuring that he forgave the rest. Complaints were made against Mordack late Governor, his Wife and Sons, with other Peers, for high misdemeanours before the Kings Return, who were committed to prison with the Earl of Dowglass, Angus, March and others; James Stewart the Third Son of Mordack, in revenge of his Father's, Mother's and Brethren's Imprisonment, burned the Town of Dunbrittain, and fled to Ireland, where he died; next Year Duke Mordack with Walter and Alexander Stewart his Sons were Condemned in a Parliament at Sterling, and all three beheaded, whereby the Earldoms of Fife, Monteith, and Lennox came into the King's hands, and the rest of the Imprisoned Lords were restored to Liberty and Favour; Donald of the Isles at this time did much mischief, but being pursued, fled into Ireland, where he was beheaded by one Odo, and his head sent to the King for a present; three hundred of his Fellows were in Ten Days taken and Hanged.  
King James than made a Progress through the Kingdom, to punish Offenders, allowing no pardon of the governor's granted for Murders, Felonies and other Villainies not pardonable by the Law of God; so that in his first two years three Thousand Persons were Executed for their former Crimes; notwithstanding which one Agnus duff with a Crew of Thiefs and Robbers, took away goods out of Murray and Cathnes, to recover which one Agnus Murray pursued him with strong Forces, who made such resistance that there remained only two persons alive of both Parties, which consisted of many hundreds. Another Notorious Robber called Macdonald Ross was taken, with Twelve of his Comrades, who had shod a poor Widow with Horse shoes on the Soles of her feet, because she threatened to discover them to the King, which as soon as recovered she did, who ordered them to be shod as they had done by her; & when they had been three days led about a Spectacle to the people, his Companions were hanged, and he beheaded.  
Next year the Queen was delivered of two Sons at a Birth, named Alexander and James; the same year happened a dreadful Eclipse of the Sun, so that for half an hour it was as dark as midnight, which was after called the Black Hour; soon after the King besieged the Castle of Roxborough, but was forced to leave it still in the hands of the English; the Lord Scroop was now sent from Henry the sixth to persuade the Scots to relinquish their Ancient League with France, and join with England, which they would by no means harken to; at that time the Earl of March was imprisoned, and disinherited, for his former Rebellion, against King Robert, and Margaret  Daughter of King James was married to Charles the seventh of France, and the former alliance confirmed; the Lady was sent over in great state, accompanied with five of her own Sisters and arrived safely in France, though the English endeavoured to seize her in her passage. Henry Piercy, E. of Northumberland, about this time invaded Scotland with four thousand men, and was encountered by Dowglass Earl of Angus, where after a great slaughter the Scots remained victors, with the Death of fifteen hundred English, and four hundred prisoners.  
Hereupon King James raised a great Army, and again besieged Roxborough, which when he had reduced to terms of surrendering the Queen arrived in great haste in the Camp, assuring the King there was a dreadful Conspiracy against his Life; whereupon he instantly raised the Siege to provide for his safety, but it was past remedy, for Walter Stewart, Earl of Athol, was the principal Conspirator, alleging that he was the true Heir to the Crown, being descended from Robert the second by his 1. Wife, and procured Robert Stewart his Nephew, and Robert Graham an Outlaw, to join with him, in the destruction of the King; who coming one Evening with leave of the Porters to the Black Friars at Perth, where the King than lay, one of his Servants coming out to fetch Wine, observing them, cried, Treason; but they presently slew him, which caused so great a noise, that a young lady named Catherine Dowglass, suspecting mischief, thrust her Arm in the staple of the Door, of the King's Chamber, which they soon crushed in sunder, and entering slew those that resisted, and than murdered the King himself, with many wounds, the Queen being hurt in attempting to save her Lord, and Patrick Dumbar Brother to the Earl of March was slain in the valiant defence of his Master. Thus was King James murdered, ●n 1436.  
The Lords detesting this Bloody assassination, used such diligence in apprehending the Traitors, that they were all seized and thus executed; the Earl of Athol (who was chief, and likewise concerned in the murder of the Duke of Rothsay, and persuaded the King to put Duke Mordack and his Sons to Death, to make way to the Crown) was three days punished with exquisite tortures; on the first he was stripped naked to his ●hirt, hoist up by a Crane fastened in a Cart, and suddenly let down again, whereby his Bones were disjointed, in which posture he was carried through the streets; the second day he was mounted upon a Pillar, and Crowned with a read hot Diadem, with this Motto; The King of all Traitors; and thus did he enjoy the Crown before his Death, as a Wizard had assured him; the third day he was laid naked on a Scaffold, his belly ripped up, and his Bowels taken out and burnt before his Eyes; Lastly his head was cut of, which with his Quarters were fixed in several Cities of the Kingdom; his Nephew Robert Stewart was only hanged and quartered as acting by instigation of his Uncle; but because Robert Graham had imbrued his hands in the King's blood, a Gallows being fixed in a Cart, he had his Right Hand n●●●ed to it, and as he was dragged along the streets, his flesh was torn of with burning Pincers, his Heart and Bowels burnt, his head and quarters sent to the Townsmen, to satisfy the rage of the people. In this Kings Reign a Sow at Perth brought forth Pigs with heads like Dogs; a Cow had a Calf with an head like a Colt: Before his Death a Blazing Star was seen, and a Sword appeared gliding, up and down the Sky, to the wonder and terror of the People.  
LXII. James the Second, his Son of six years old, by the consent of three Estates was Crowned King; during his Nonage Sir Alexander Levingston of Calandre was chosen Governor of the Realm, and Sir William Creighton Lord Chancellor had the Government of Edinburgh and the King's person; difference arising between them soon after, occasioned much mischief, one thwarting the Orders made by the other; the Queen and the Governor continued at Sterling, the King and Chancellor were in Edinburgh Castle; disorders increasing, the Queen to Regulate them, went with a few attendants to Edinburgh, and persuaded the Governor to let her enter the Castle to see the King; three days after she pretended to go to Church one morning early, and having prevailed with her Son to put himself into a Trunk, she conveyed him upon a Sumpter Horse to Sterling, where he was joyfully received by the Governor, who raised a strong party, and besieged the Chancellor in the Castle, but by mediation an Agreement was made; at that time James Stewart, Son to the Lord of Lorn, married the Queen's Mother, and the Earl of Dowglass died, leaving a Son named William but 14 Years old, who by ill company grew very debauched and insolent, coming to Court attended with Two Thousand Horse, many of them Common Thiefs and Robbers.  
This year the Governor took the whole administration of affairs into his hands, which stomached the Chancellor, that going one morning with only Twenty four men to Sterling Park, where the King was Hunting, and the Governor absent, he persuaded him to go with him to Edinburgh; at which the Governor being enraged, prepared for revenge, but by the procurement of the Bishops they were perfectly reconciled, and the King was to remain with the Chancellor, upon which they both consulted how to abate the dangerous ambition of the Young Earl of Dowglass, and at length concluded to invite him into Edinburgh Castle, with his Brother David; being come they were entertained with seeming kindness, but in the midst of the Banquet, a Bull's head was brought in, and set before Dowglass, which in those days was a certain sign of sudden Execution; the Early daunted at this horrible sight, leapt from the Table to defend himself, but was seized by the Guard, with his Brother David, and Malcolm Fleming, and all three beheaded at the Castle Gate. William his Uncle's Son succeeded in the Earldom, at which time the King being Thirteen Years of Age resolved to Govern himself, which Dowglass hearing, came to Sterling, and offered him his Service, and Assistance, who received him kindly, Pardoning all his Misdemeanours, and taking him into such favour that Dowglass in a short time procured the banishment of the Governor, and Chancellor, with all their Friends, from Court, at which they being incensed, raised Forces, and other Lords assisting each Party, a battle was fought, wherein about six hundred on both sides were slain; and a Parliament being called Sir Alex. Levingston, William Creighton, and divers others, were Condemned, some to loose their Estates, and Robert and Daniel Levingston were beheaded.  
Dowglass thus dispatched his Brothers raised open Rebellion, and being summoned to appear, set up Papers on the the Church Doors with the Seal of the Douglases, charging the King as a murderer, Bloodsucker, and a False, and Perjured person; they than Rob and Spoil the Country, and fight with the King's Forces, many were slain on both sides, but Dowglass Confederates forsaking him, he fled into England, and again invaded Scotland, but was discomfited, and again got back to England, several of his Companions, as the Earl of Ormond and others, being beheaded; At this time the Wars between the Houses of Lancaster and York happened in England, and King Henry 6 was forced to fly into Scotland, but when Edward 4th. had settled the Crown upon his head, remembering how ready K. James was to support his Adversaries, he ordered some of the Borderers to make Inroads into Scotland, to prevent which K. James marched into England, and besieged Roxborough Castle, & being well skilled in shooting, as he was standing near the Piece of Ordnance, which he commanded to be discharged, it, being overcharged, broke and killed the King, (and hurt the Earl of Angus.)  
The day before the King's death a Blazing Star appeared. The year before a Person who pretended to be an Hermaphrodit was buried alive for Personating a Woman, and yet performing the part of a man in getting her Master's Daughter with Child. About which time a certain Thief who lived privately in a Den, with his Wife, and Children, were all burned alive, they having made it their practice many years to kill young people and eat them; one Girl only of a year old was saved, and brought up at Dundee, who at Twelve years of Age was found guilty of the same horrid Crime.  
LXIV. James the third, of Seven Years of Age, succeeded his Father, and was carried to Roxborough by the Queen his Mother, a Woman of an undaunted Spirit, who instead of unprofitable lamentations, encouraged the Lords to prosecute the Siege, which they did with such vigour, that the Castle was taken and razed to the ground, and likewise the Castle of Wark; after which the King returning to Edinburgh was Crowned, Seven Regent's being elected to Govern him and the Kingdom, till he came to Age, of which the Queen and Bishop Kennedy were chief, but next year she died, having lived somewhat dissolutely after her Husband's death with Adam Hepburn a married man, whereby her Fame was impaired; The King being now Twenty years old, married the Lady Margaret Daughter to the King of Denmark; and the Isles of Orkney, being Twenty eight, and of Shetland eighteen, were agreed to remain in the possession of the Kings of Scotland till her Portion, which was fifty Thousand Florins, should be paid. The Earl of Arran, one of the Commissioners sent to Denmark to bring over the Queen, had some Enemies at Court, who in his Absence provoked the King against him, that he threatened to take of his head at his return, of which his Wife who was the King's Sister gave him notice while he was on shipboard. The Kings Younger Brother was Condemned for Conspiring to bewitch his brother to death, for which his Veins were cut, and he Bled to death.  
King James sent two Heralds by the instigation of the French King to King Edward of England, to dissuade him from assisting the Duke of Burgundy against France, whom Edward would not admit to audience till he had dispatched a Fleet into Scotland where they took several ships, and burned the Town of Blackness, for which affront King James prepared an Army to invade England, but was forbidden by the Pope's Legate, that all Christian Princes might unite against the Turks, upon which King James disbanded his Forces; the Duke of Albany coming out of France into England, King Edward received him honourably, promising, as some writ, to make him King of Scotland, and thereupon with Thirty Thousand Men, under the Duke of Gloucester, and a strong Navy, he designed to invade Scotland by Sea and Land; the King of Scots hearing of their approach raised all the strength possible, & marched to the Town of Lowder, where being Bucquain, encamped, the Earls of Angus, Huntley Lennox, the Lords Grey, Lisle and others, than in his Army, entered his Lodgings, charging him with several misdemeanours to the damage of the Kingdom, especially harkening to the jewd Counsels of Persons of meanbirth and Quality, such as Thomas Cookrain, whom from a Mason he advanced to the Earldom of Marr; also for Coining Copper Money, and other mischiefs: That he would not harken to the advice of his Nobility, but neglecting his Lawful Wife and Queen, lived in Adultery with an impudent Strumpet called Daysy: That he had unjustly put his Brother the Earl of Marr, to death, and banished his Brother, the Duke of Albany, and therefore they resolved the Realm should be not longer disturbed by such naughty Persons.  
Hereupon they hanged Thomas Cockrain, William Rogers, and James Hominil a Tailor, over the Bridge at Lowder, saving John Ramsey a Youth of eighteen, at the King's earnest desire, and committing the King to Edinburgh Castle, they concluded a Truce with the English, whereby the Duke of Albany was restored to his Country, Estate, and Honour; and so the English returned home having taken the Castle of Berwick in their march into Scotland. At length the Duke was persuaded by the Queen to set his Brother at Liberty without consent of the other Lords, which they hearing of, fled every one to his own Estate, after which followed much slaughter in several places, by this difference between the King and his Nobles: The Duke of Albany suspecting that poison was given him in drink, in the King's Chamber, fled again from Court to Dumbar Castle, and raising Forces was vanquished by the King, and than embarked for France; Edward the fourth dying, King Richard usurped the Crown, who concluded a peace with Scotland for three years.  
But the discontents of the People daily increasing, by reason of maladministration, and the King again entertaining mean Fellows into his Council, who abused both Nobility and Commons, the Earls of Angus, Argile, and Lennox, the Lords Hale, Hume, Drummond, Grey, and others, resolved to preform these disorders by Arms, and to take of the name of Rebellion they made James Duke of Rothsay the King's Son & Heir, Captain General, (though against his will) protesting ●hey only designed the removing of an evil King, not the destruction of Monarchy or their Country, but the welfare thereof; the King raised an Army, but before he would use force, sent to his Son and the Lords to propose an Agreement; he likewise sent to ●he French and English Kings, and to the Pope, to interpose in the quarrel; but the Scotch Nobility and Commons were so desperately enraged, that they sent him word, if he would resign his Crown and Dignity they would treat with him, else not; the same answer was given to the English and French Ambassadors, which ●o incensed the King, that he resolved to meet and fight them who were now marching toward Sterling, with ●ll their strength, neither could the King be persuaded to stay till the Earls of Huntly, Arrol, Athol, Craw●ord, Rothes, Sutherland, Cathnes and Martial, with other Lords came in with their forces, consisting of Forty Thousand men, but presently joined Battle with them at Banocksbourn, where after a great carnage, ●he King being vanquished fled into a mill, whither being followed and found, he was slain, and left stark●aked, in the Twenty Ninth Year of his Reign. 1488.  
LXV. James the Fourth was next advanced to the Throne, about sixteen years old, who was very penitent for being in Arms against his Father, wearing an Iron chain about his middle, all his life on that account, proving a very pious & just Prince. After his Coronation ●he Earl of Lindsey, & the Lord Lisle, though in the Field with him at the slaughter of his Father, yet not finding things to their expectation, raised an Army, causing the late Kings Bloody shirt to be carried before them as a Banner, and marching toward Sterling against the young King, were overthrown at Tollymoss, and divers of the Principal slain. A Parliament being called a general Pardon was granted by the King, to those that fought against his Father, and those that aided his Father, were suspended from bearing any public office for three years; It was likewise declared, that the Death of his Father happened by his own default, and that King James the Fourth and his Adherents were innocent of all slaughter than made, and clearly acquitted from all fault or crime upon that occasion, the three Estates testifying the same with their hands and seals, with the King's great seal annexed for confirming the same, which was showed to the Pope, the King of France, Spain, Denmark and other Confederates, with whom the Ancient Leagues were renewed. His two Benchrens, the Duke of Rothsay and the Earl of Mar, the K●caused to be educated in all princely Qualities; The Pope sent him a Rose and Sceptre of Gold.  
At this time Henry the Seventh reigned in England, and Charles the French King sent an Embassy to Scotland, that there was 〈◊〉 probability of a Breach betwixt England and France, desiring the assistance of King James, if it should hap, and informing him that he had with him Richard D. of York Second sonto Edward the fourth, who had been preserved many years by the Duchess of Burgundy, whom he would sand into Scotland, desiring his aid to settle the Crown of England upon him; soon after, this pretended Duke, whose true name was Perkin Warbeck, arrived, and King James by reason of this French recommendation entertained him nobly, and married him to the Earl of Huntleys' Daughter, his near Kinswoman; and raising Forces, invaded England, hoping the English would flock in to their new King, but wasting Northumberland, and finding none regarded this young pretender, he returned with a Rich Booty; at length by the mediation of the King of Spain, a Truce was concluded for three years, and King Henry insisted to have Perkin delivered up, but King James, though abused by him, would not consent, only desired him to withdraw out of the Realm, which he did into Flanders, ●ut making another accempt on England he was taken, with his Wife, whom for her beauty King Henry ●●ought a fit match for an Emperor than a Soldier, ●nd therefore used her honourably, she continuing with the Queen, as long as that King lived.  
Shortly after a marriage was concluded between K. ●ames, and the Lady Margaret Daughter to King Henry, ●nd Peace to continued during both their lives; the ●ext year the Queen was delivered of a son named ●ames; and two years after King Henry 7 died and his Son Henry the Eighth succeeded, who sent an honourable Ambassage to King James. About this time the English took two Scots Ships, at which King James was much offended, and required Sacisfaction, but received ●ittle, only King Henry promised to sand Commissionert, to the Borders, to adjust all differences; the French King and the Duke of Gelderland perceiving Henry was resolved to make war with France, they both sent Ambassadors to King James for his assistance, who being desirous of Peace, sent to the King of England, to persuade him to unity, and offered to compound any differences between them, but received a slight answer. Soon after Commissioners met on the Borders, but could not agreed, upon which King James sent a long Letter to Henry, and received as long an answer, whereby James perceived the English designed rather War than Peace, and therefore sent an Herald to the Borders to denounce open War, and raising his Forces, the Lord Hume first made an attempt upon sow English, who had fercht a Booty out of Scotland, following them into Northumberland; but an Ambuscade of English suddenly issuing out, out most of them of.  
Mean while the whole power of Scotland and K. James in the head of them, marched over the River Tweed into England, against whom the Earl of Surrey, Lieutenant of the North, raised a puissant Army; and a● Flodden Field a Bloody Battle was fought, wherein above thirteen Thousand Scots were slain, with King James himself. And a multitude of Noblemen and Gentlemen, and not above two Thousand English, so that they obtained a complete Victory; thus died King James in the twenty fifth year of his Reign, and the 39 of his Age, 1512. A Prince who for his Politic and just Government deserves to be numbered amongst the most excellent of the Scotch Princes.  
LXVI. James the fifth his Son, a Child of a Year and five Months Old, was by his mother (with the consent of the remnant of the Nobility who escaped) Crowned King, the Queen being chosen Regent during his minority, assisted by James Beaton Archbishop of Glasgow, and the Earls of Huntley, Angus and Arran, but variance happening some of them sent secretly to the Duke of Albany, the King's Uncle in France, to come over and Govern the Realm, as being next Heir to the Crown if the Child should die without issue, and a Parliament being called, he was confirmed Governor; soon after the Queen was matried to Archibald Dowglass Earl of Angus, and a Truce concluded with England for three years; the Duke of Albany arrived from France, and was received with Triumph, upon which the Earl of Angus and his Brother were banished the Realm; King Henry was much displeased at Albany's advancement, knowing that he would promote the French Interest against his, and sent a Herald to Scotland, to require the Duke to departed, alleging it was agreed by the French King at their last Interview, that he should not come into Scotland, and further, that the King of England was Uncle to the King of Scots; whom he was bound to protect and defend, and that it was not reasonable, since the Duke was next Heir to the Crown, that he should have the Government of him, jest he should be made away, as other young Pansies have been; that it was unjust for the Earl of Angus to be banished, whereby he could not enjoy his Wife, the Sister of the King of England. The Herald had likewise in charge, that if the Duke refused to departed the Realm, he should declare open War against him.  
The Duke of Albany weary of the dissensions among the Nobility, took his leave, and departed into France, upon which a Peace was concluded with England, and King James some time after married Magdalen Daughter to the French King, but she dying within a year, he married Mary of Lorraine Duchess of Longuevil; about which time great divisions happened in the Kingdom in opinions of Religion, which seemed to shake the state; hereupon the King calling a Council of his Ancient Servants, some of whom began to peep through the Clouds of those ignorant times, the King demanded their advice in the matter, and freedom being allowed one spoke to this effect.  
Sir, It is not the lest Blessing of your Government that the meanest Subject has liberty to declare his Judgement to his Sovereign, and if ever it were a time to deliver sound Counsel, it is now; your Kingdom is divided with diversity of Opinions; it were to be wished that one true Religion were embraced by all your Subjects, since differences therein are a punishment from God, for men's horrible vices and roaring sias, and which many times occasion Factions, Wars and utter Destruction to nations; but matters being in such great disorder in your Kingdom, and Sectaries daily increasing, without dissembling my thoughts to your Majesty, the preservation of their people being the supreme and principal Law, which God Almighty hath enjoined to all Princes, I think it more expedient to tolerate both Religions, than to suffer the Common peace of your Subjects to be torn in pieces: if you condemn to Death those that adhere to the new Doctrines, for mere matters of faith, it will invite numbers who were ignorant thereof, not only to favour their cause, but to embrace their opinions, pity and commiseration opening the Gates, which spreads Doctrines, and increaseth their numbers; if you banish them, they are so many Enemies abroad, ready to invade & trouble the peace of their Native Country; to take Arms against them is as dangerous, Religion cannot be preached by Arms, the first Christians detested it, since it may produce Hypocrites, not sincere Christians; if it be an Heresy, it is in the soul, upon which fire and Iron cannot work; they must be overcome by Spiritual Arms; Love the men, and pity their Errors. Who can enforce a man to believe or not believe what he pleases? To tuin and extirpate them is a weakening to the state, since no man is so mean or miserable, but he is a Member of the Commonwealth; It is false, and erroneous, that a Kingdom cannot subsist which tolerateth two Religions, since a little time will contract Acquaintance and Familiarity, yea they will be intermixed in one City, Family and marriage Bed; why may not two Religions, I pray, be suffered in a State, till by some sweet and gentle means they may be reduced? Since is the Church of Rome, which boasteth to be Unity itself, there are almost infinite Sects and kinds of Monks, differing in their Laws, Rules of Government, Diet, Apparel, Opinions of perfection; the Roman Empire had not its extension by similitude in Religion; the Murders and Massacres committed upon pretence of Religion are far more execrable and impious, than diversity of opinions with peace & quiet can be unjust, since those who flesh themselves, like famished Lions, in the Blood of their Neighbours, do as much as in them lies to sacrifice their Souls to Devils, by not giving them time to repent of their Errors. That Maxim of the Churchmen, that it is more necessary to destroy Heretics, than Insidels, is designed more for the enlarging of the Sovereignty and Dominion of the Pope, than propagating the Christian Religion; Kingdoms, and Sovereignty's, should not be governed by the Laws and Interest of Priests and Churchmen, but for the public weal, which often requires the tolerating some Defects and Errors; It is the duty of all Christian Princes to endeavour that their Subjects may observe all God's Commandments, yet when some vice cannot be extirpated without ruin of the state, human Judgement thinks it better to suffer it, as Fornication and the like. These men are of the same nature as we, worship one God, believe the same holy Records, aim at Salvation, fear to offend God as well as we, they only found some abuses in our Church, and require a reformation, and shall we for this pursue them with Fire and Sword, and root them out of the Earth? If they be out of the way let us bring them in; if they be in darkness let us give them light, not kill, banish & burn those whom by love and sweetness we might reduce and recall again. Let their opinions be heard and examined before we condemn them, which being Holily and Righteously done, we shall found it is not our Religion, but our private Interests and passion which trouble us and the State.  
Yet the King followed not this Counsel, but inclined to the Prelates, who persuaded him, that if he suffered the People to question points in Religion, they would soon presume to make laws for the Government, and restrain the Sovereign Authority. In pursuatice here of all who differed from the Romish Faith were proceeded against with the utmost severity, which yet did but increase their number.  
King Henry fearing the design of the Emperor and French in conjunction with the Pope against him, in revenge for having renounced his Supremacy, 〈◊〉, to meet King James at York, and communicate with him about matters of public advantage to both Kingdoms, which James promised to do, but by the persuasions of the Cardinal and Bishops, who doubted his Uncle would prevail with him to follow his Example in throwing of the Romish Yoke, he was dissuaded from it, though the Laird of Grange made him so sensible of the danger of not performing his promise, by creating an unnecessary War, that one time he thus accosted the Prelates, Wherhfore, said he, did my Predecessors give so many Lands and Rents to the Kirk? Was it to maintain Hawks, Hounds and Whores for a number of Idle Priests? The King of England burns the King of Denmark, beheads you, and I will stab you with this Whinyard. However when his Passion was over, their Gold, and Golden promises of continual supplies in case of War, prevailed upon him to put an affront upon King Henry, and not to meet him, who took it so heinously that he resolved to invade Scotland, publishing a declaration of the motives thereunto, making great preparations by Sea and Land, and at Solloway Moss the Scotch Nobility were so discontented that one Oliver Sinclare a Person of mean birth, was preferred before them to be Lieutenant General, that resolving not to fight under such a Commander, they suffered themselves to be overcome without resistance or the loss of one man on either side.  
The K. with the grief hereof, & of his two only Sons, who died in one day the year before, fell into a deep melancholy; the Queen about this time was delivered of a Daughter who only survived him, at the news whereof sighing a farewell to the World, It will end as it began (says he) the Crown came by a Woman, and with a Woman it will go, many miseries approach this poor Kingdom; King Henry will either take it by Arms or marriage; and five days after he yielded up the Ghost, 1542.  
LXVII. Marry his only Daughter, a Child of seven days Old, succeeded her Father, of which King Henry having notice, proposed to the Lords who were taken at Solloway Moss, marriage was between his Son Ed● ward, and their young Queen, promising them their liberty without ransom, if they would promote the business, which they all solemnly engaging to perfor●● were freed and sent home. Soon after a Parliament being called, Ambassadors were sent to Henry to confirm the same, and a Peace was concluded for Ten years by his Authority; The Earl of Arran was made Governor of the Realm, who seemed to embrace the reformed Religion, causing one Friar William to preach against Images and other Popish Ceremonies, the Bible was translated into the English Tongue; and Beaton, Cardinal and Archbishop of St. Andrews, an Enemy to the Reformation, was imprisoned.  
The French King suspecting the ancient League with France might be weakened by his Alliance with England, sent Matthew Earl of Lennox than in his service into Scotland, to procure the Government of the Kingdom, as due to him by right, though now unjustly usurped by the Earl of Arran, directing Letters to divers Scots Lords of the French Faction, to assist him therein; having delivered his message he found the Lords and Governor much inclined to King Henry's Interest, who sent assistance to them against Lennox, but being upo● the Borders, the Cardinal so managed his Kinsman the E. of Arran, that he revolted from the King of England, and joined with the Cardinal, the Queen Dowager, and the French Faction, at which the Earl of Lennox was so offended; that he renounced the French Kings service, & joined with King Henry, who sent him assistance, wherewith he burned Edinburgh, and took Leith, with other places, discomfiting the Scots in diver● skirmishes, with the aid of Sir Ralph Evers, and other English Commanders.  
At this time Cardinal Beaton caused Mr. George Wisenart to be burnt at St. Andrews for Heresy, a man learned, an Excellent Preacher, and well beloved by the People; soon after the Cardinal being in his Castle at St. Andrews, several of his intimate acquaintance, as Norman Lord Lesly, L. Grange and sixteen others entered the Castle, and slew him in his Bed, seized upon all the Ammunition and Rich Furniture; and other Lords and Gentlemen joining with them, were received into the Castle, which they defended against the Governor. It is recorded, that the Cardinal leaning out of the Castle Window, some days before, in great Triumph, to see Mr. Wisehart burned, the Martyr looking up toward him, uttered this Prophetical speech: He that in such state from that high place now feeds his eyes with many torments, shall in few days be hanged out of the same Window with as much shame & Ignominy as he now leans there with pride, Which now happened, for, the Provost raising the Town, came to the Castle Gates, crying, What have ye done with the Lord Cardinal, where is he? To whom they answered from within, Return to your houses for he hath received his reward, and will trouble the World not more. But they cried, We will never departed till we see him. Upon which he was hanged out of that very Window to satisfy the People he was dead. Those within the Castle defended it 8 Months, but Forces being sent from France, they were compelled to yield upon Terms, only their lives saved, though most of them were by the French sent to the Galleys, and after redeemed by their Friends for great Sums of Money.  
The Earl of Lennox was restored to his Honour and Estate, and Francis the French King Husband to Q. Mary dying, she was now a Widow, when taking a Journey through Fife, she was much pleased with Henry Lord Darnly  Son to the Earl of Lennox, a proper Young Gentleman, and quickly Married him though the match was strongly opposed by the Earl of Murray and Queen Elizabeth; he was than Proclaimed King at the Market Cross of Edinburgh; and the D. of Castleherault, the Earls of Argile, Murray, and their accomplices were summoned to appear before the Queen and Council in six days, which they refusing were put to the Horn, and Forces raised to pursue them who fled into England and entreated that Queen to interpose in their behalf, but a Parliament being called they were outlawed; whereupon their Friends in Scotland got an Interest in the King, persuading him that if he would restore the Banished Lords, and follow their Counsel, they would make him absolute King of Scotland, and that the Queen should have little Interest in the Government; to this he consented, and going about eight a Clock one Evering into the Queen's Privy Chamber, attended by the Earl of Morton, the Lords Ruthen & Lindsey, they told the Queen, they would not longer suffer her to Govern the Realm, and abuse them with the Counsel of Strangers, as she had hitherto loan, and seizing up on David Rizio an Italian, her Secretary, immediately Slew him, he crying out lamentably Justitia, Justitia, the King himself being present, and his Dagger found sticking in the Body; the Queen was shut up in her Chamber, and and a Guard set upon her, the Earls of Huntley and Bothwel escaped by the back Window.  
Next day the banished Lords came from N●wcastle to Edinburgh, and were joyfully received by the King and his Party; but the Queen a while after having private conference with him, persuaded him to forsake those Lords, and go with her; and than joining with Huntley and Bothwel, Orders were issued for raising Forces, whereupon those Lords fled again to England, but upon Queen mary request all concerned in the Murder were ordered to departed; at this time the Queen uvea delivered of a Son in Edinburgh Castle, and immediately notice thereof sent to Queen elizabeth by Sir James Melvil, who waited upon her at Greenwich; when she first heard the News by Secretary Cecil, which he whispered in her ear as ●he was merrily dancing after supper, on a sudden all her Mirth was laid aside, and retiring ●he burst out into these Expressions, the Queen of the Scots is Mother of a fair Son, and I am nothing but a birren Stock; yet the next day she seemed very joyful to the Messenger, and sent the Earl of Bedford, to declare the Queen to be Godmother, the King of France and the Duke of Savoy being Godfathers, and the Infant was Christened James, In June 1565. In January following, the King came to Glasgow, where he fell. Sick, and removing thence to Edinburgh, the Queen lodged at the Holy Rood House, but the King in a House within the Town near the Field, where one night he was barbarously Murdered, the House being blown up, and his Dead Body thrown in the Orchard.  
Earl Bothwel was vehemently suspected as the Chief Actor, but it was so carried that he was not only cleared by an Assize or Trial, but soon after married the Queen, which caused great admiration; some of the Lords, enraged at Bothwels' promotion, fly to Arms and designed to have supprized the Queen and him, but they got into the Castle of Dumbar, and raised Forces, who meeting with those of the Nobility, much Bloodslied might have happened, had not the French Ambassador interposed, and Bothwel flying, the Queen delivered herself up to the discontented Lords who brought her to Edinburgh; Bothwel escaped into Denmark, and died there; several of the Murderers were after taken and Executed, who all accused Bothwel as the Chief Instrument in the Murder of the King.  
LXVIII. James the Sixth, not above two years Old, was than Crowned at Sterling, by Commission from the Queen his Mother, who resigned the Government, and the Earl of Murray was chosen Regent during his Minority with power to associate seven others to his assistance, namely the Duke of Castleherault, and the Earls of Lennox. Argile, Athol, Morton, Glencarn and Mar; and a Parliament being called an Act was made for abolishing the Pope's Authority in Scotland; May 2. the Queen escaped out of Locklevyn, where she was kept by the Regent and the Lords, and with the assistance of George Dowglass and others was conveyed to Hamilton Castle, where she raised Forces; the Regent upon the News got his Friends together, and within two miles of Glasgow a Battle was fought, wherein the Queen's Party was discomfited, fourteen of the name of Hamilton being slain; three hundred taken prisoners, and among them several Lords; the Queen perceiving from the place where she stood, the overthrow of her Forces, withdrew into Galloway, and from thence by the Sea to Workington in England, where she was stayed by Sir Ralph Sadler, and conveyed to Carlisle; after this all the Castles and Garrisons of the Queen's Friends were surrendered to the Regent.  
In 1569 the Earls of Northumberland and Westmoreland raised a Rebellion against Queen Elizabeth, and burned the Bible, but being suppressed by the diligence of the Earl of Sussex, and other Gallant Captains, they fled into Scotland; soon after the Regent riding through Lithgow was shot to death with an Harquebuz by one James Hamilton; after this Murder, the Lords sent for the Earl of Lennox out of England, who came to Edinburgh with several Lords and Gentlemen, and reduced the Earl of Huntley and other Lords that opposed him, and was by the Parliament made Regent of the Kingdom; The Queen's Lords again raised Forces; and fortified several places, but by the conduct of the Regent were defeated in several skirmishes; but at length three hundred entering one morning early in the Regent's House at Sterling, wounded him with a Pistol, of which he died, and the Lords chose the Earl of Mar Regent in his stead, who Thirteen Months after died, and the Earl of Morton succeeded, at which time the Duke of Norfolk was Beheaded upon Tower-hill, for High Treason, and among other Articles, for designing to Mary the Queen of Scots; Ten days after Commissioners were sent to Queen Mary, charging her for usurping the Tittle and Arms of England, and contriving to Mary the Duke of Norfolk, to which she answered in the Negative; the Earl of Northnmberland had wandered in the Woods of Scotland since his last Rebellion and was secured from being delivered up by Murray, but now Morton sells him to the Governor of Berwick and he was soon after Beheaded at York, The Realm was now divided between two Factions, The King and the Reformers, and the Queen and her Lords who kept the Castle of Edinburgh, but by assistance from England the Regent gained it; now several differences arose in matters of Religion, some Lords approving o● Reform Episcopacy, and others were for the Discipline of Geneva, which caused many hot contests, and the Regent being opposed, the King about Twelve Years old was Crowned at Edinburgh, and a Parliament being called several Acts were made concerning Religion.  
The Earl of Morton late Regent is about this time accused for the Murder of the late K. which he confessed before he died, excusing it, as being forced thereto by the disturbances of that time; the Fatal Axe, called the Maiden, which he had caused to be made by a pattern at Hallifax in Yorkshire, falling down between two Posts, was now the Instrument of his own Execution. The Earls of Mar and Gowry, the Lords, Lindsey, Boyd, with two Abbots, and others seized the K at Ruthen, from whom he after freed himself, for being in Falkland, he desired to Visit his Uncle the Earl of March at Saint Andrews, where taking a View of the Castle, Colonel Stuart acquainted of the design, clapped to the Gates, and shut out the company, and next day the Earls of Argile, Marshal, Montross and Rothes, the King's Friends came thither to him, and to prevent further mischiefs the K Pardoned those Lords who had been his forms Keepers; but Earl Gowry was Condemned and Executed; and the Earl of Arran was made Lord Chancellor.  
In 1586 Mary Queen of Scots was brought to a Trial at Fotheringay Castle in Northamptonshire before Twenty four Commissioners, whose Authority she disowned as being a free Princess, yet being charged that Babington, with her privity, defigned the death of Q. Elizabeth, she was Condemned and Beheaded, notwithstanding the mediation of several Foreign Princes, and the endeavours of her Son K. James, who threatred severe revenge for such an unparallelled Act. But domeslick quarrels and Queen Elizabeth's Caresses at length diverted those thoughts. In 1558. The Spanish Armado came against England, upon which the King was persuaded to take this opportunity against Q. Elizabeth, but he told his Lords he would not accept the assistance of one mightier than himself to fight his cause, left he should become Master of all. Which resolution much pleased the Queen, as she signified to him by Sir 3. Sidney; the defeat of the Spaiqish Fleet much Sisturbed the Catholics in Scotland; Bothwel & Hundey take Arms, but afterwards submit to mercy; The King than goes to Norway and there Marries Ann Prinness of Denmark, and returning she was Crowned with great Triumph.  
King James valued himself much upon his skill in the Politics, which he usually called, King Croft, and that Maxim of the Emperor Tiberius was applied to him either by himself or his Courtiers, Qui nescit d●iffimulare nesciat regnare; He that cannot dissemble know, 〈◊〉 how to Reign, Of which he gave several pregna● 〈◊〉 stances, particularly about this time, For upon 〈◊〉 turn from Denmark, the next Sunday after, 〈◊〉 Sermon was ended, the King made a speech to the Presbyterian Noblemen, Gentlemen and Ministers present, declaring; that he was come thither to thank God for his prosperous return; To thank them for the good order they had kept in his absence, and to thank the Ministers for their care in stirring up the people to fast and pray for his safe return; And promised to amend his former negligence, and to execute justice without deceit or favour, and to see the Kirks better provided with Ministers, acknowledging, that many things had been formerly out of order, partly by the iniquity of the times, and partly by reason of his you●●● but now he had seen more, and being married he would be more stayed and engaged to give himself wholly up to the execution of his promises for the future: He required the Ministers to purge themselves, and to be impartial in their own cause, telling them, It was his duty to see them reform as well as it was theirs to urge him, and the Nobility to reform themselves; and in conclusion he praised God, that he was born in such a time of the Light of the Gospel, and in such a year as to be King of the sincerest Kirk in the World; The Kirk of Geneva, said he, keep the Pasch & Yule, what rule have they for them? They have no institution; As for our Neighbour Kirk in England their service is an evil said Mass in English, they want nothing of the Mass but the Listing; I charge you my good People, Ministers, Doctors, Elders, Nobles, Gentlemen and Barons to stand to your purity, and exhort the People to do the same, and I forsooth, so long as I brook my life and Crown, shall maintain the same against all deadly, etc.  
This Zealous speech was received with such great 〈◊〉 ●use that nothing was heard for a quarter of an 〈◊〉 but praising God and praying for the King. Yet 〈◊〉 ●ard by his policy and endeavours, Episcopacy was brought into that Kingdom, and 2 Archbishops with ●2 Bishops ordained for the Government of the Church, which occasioned many dangerous disturbances, and differences between the King and the Presbyters, who he thought owned many principles not so favourable to Monarchy, of which there was an instance in the reign of his Mother Queen Mary, with whom Mr. John Knox that eminent Presbyterian Minister being in conference spalie thus to her; Madam, if Princes exceed their bounds they may be resisted even by power, for there is no greater honour nor obedience to be given to Princes than God hath commanded to be given to Father and Mother; If Children join together against their Father, stricken with a Frenzy, and seeking to slay his own Children, and if they apprehended him, take his Sword or other Weapons from him; if they bind his hands and keep him in prison till his Fury be over, do they offer him any wrong? or will God be offended with them for hindering their Father from committing horrible murder? Even so Madam, if Princes will murder their good subjects, their blind zeal is but a mad Frenzy, and to take the Sword from them, to bind their hands, and to cast them into prison, till they be brought to a sober mind, is not disobedience, but just obedience, because it agrees with the word of God; the Queen stood still as one amazed for about a quarter of an hour, and changed her countenance at this bold speech. When King James came to the Crown of England, the Presbyterians desired the relaxation of some of the controverted ceremonies in the Church; upon which he appointed a Conserence at Hampton Court between some of them and the Bishops, where the K. discovered so much earnestness against the Presbyterians, & such Zeal for not allowing any abatements or alterations either in the Common Prayer, or Episcopal Discipline, that Archbishop Whitgift isaid, he was verily persuaded that the King spoke by the spirit of God; so that either the change of the air, or clearer information occasioned a very extraordinary alteration of his sentiments in these matters.  
The Earl of Bothwel now endeavours to seize the King and Court, but the design miscarrying he flies, some of his company being hanged next morning, to appease the People. After this the Earls of Huntley and Murray quarrelling, Earl Murray was miserably slain; Bothwel than contrives new designs, and seizes the K. at Holy Rood House, and forces him to sign his pardon, to restore him all formerly possessed by him, and to abandon the Chancellor, L. Hume, Master of Glammis, and others, whereupon he grew so insolent, that the King complains of him, & some of his Lords joining with him, he got out of his hands, and Bothwel is Proclaimed a Rebel.  
In 1593. Prince Henry was born, who was solemnly baptised in great State, Lion Herald at Arms Proclaiming his Title thus, Henry Frederick Kt. and Baron of Rensrew. L. of the Isles, E. of Carrick, Duke of Rothsay, Prince and Steward of Scotland. Bothwel again raises a Rebellion with the assistance of the Popish Lords, but being discomfited, he flies into France, and thence to Naples, where he died poor and miserable.  
In 1600 Charles his Son and successor was born at Dumferling in Scotland, Nou. 19 and was so named in relation to the Duke of Lennox the King's Uncle. About the same time a Conspiracy was reported to have been made by Earl Gowry, son of him aforementioned, against the King's life, but he was killed by the Guards; March 26. 1603. King James had news that Queen Elizabeth was dead, and had declared him successor, contrary to the opinion of many of the Scortish Courtiers, who being wearied with the tediousness of their expectation, did believe at last it would never be acknowledged by the Lords of England that the Queen was dead so long as there was any old Woman alive in England to wear good , and take the name of Q. upon her; this was seconded with the advice of the Kings being Proclaimed her lawful successor, whereupon he prepared himself for England, the late Queen's Favourites being ready to receive him, and adore the rising Sun; of which toward her latter end they gave signal intimations, for her Courtiers would sometimes in her presence glance at the King of the Scots as her successor (though they knew it would put her into a passion to speak of a successor) and she would tell them; Was this imputed to the Earl of Essex for a crime, and is it lesle in you? Yea Secretary Cecil himself kept a correspondence with King James, which he was once like to have been entrapped in; for the Queen taking the air upon Black heath hear Greenwich, a Post from Scotland came, whereupon she stayed her Coach to receive the Pacquer, but the Secretary being in the Coach with her, fearful that his Intriqus would be discovered, suddenly calls for a Knife and cuts the string, and smelling to the letters, tells her, that they looked and smelled ill-favouredly coming out of so many filthy Budgets, and aught to be aired before her Majesty touched them; Which the Queen who was a great enemy to ill scents, ordered to be done, and was thereby prevented of smelling out the design. In his way to London the King was treated and applauded in so extraordinary a manner by the English Nobility and Gentry, that a Scotch Gentleman said publicly, These people will spoil a good King. May 11 1603. he arrived at Whitchall in the thirty sixth year both of his age and Reign in Scotland, the Queen and Prince Henry following a few weeks after, and in July the King and Q. were Crowned at Westminster.  
In March following a Parliament was summoned, to whom the King, in a long speech, earnestly recommended the Union of Scotland with England, since in his person who descended lineally from King Henry seventh, The Union of the two Houses of Lancaster and York was reunited and confirmed, and declared the many advantages that from thence would redound to both Kingdoms. But the English stumbled at this Partition, thinking it an unequal division, and fearing the Scots creeping into English Lordships and English Ladies beds, in both which they already began to be active, and likewise finding that the King's bounty contracted itself into private Favourites, bestowing the affection he promised whole people upon one man, as afterwards on Somerset & Bueking ham, they doubted that Scotland though the lest, might, yet be the most predominant part; However in persuance of this project, He is Proclaimed King of Great Britain, England must not more be a name, the Scotish Coins are made currant, and our ships must have St. George's and St. Andrews Crosses quartered together in their Fing; with all outward signs of Amity; But although those English Gentlemen that had not tasted of the King's bounty repined to see the Scots advanced from their blue Bonnets to costly Bevers, as the Satirical Lampoons of that Age sufficiently demonstrated, yet the King guided the Helm of State so politiekly that these small Gusts were not felt; The Parliament, to satisfy the King's desires about the Union, made an Act to authorise certain Commissioners to meet, Treat, and consult with others nominated by the Parliament of Scotland, concerning such matters as they should think necessary for the honour of the K. & common good of both Kingdoms; but the good intentions of this Union took no effect.  
1605 The horrible Powder Treason of the Papists against the King and Parliament was happily discovered to the Confusion of the Conspirators. In 1610 King Henry the fourth, Surnamed the Great, of France (in the height of his Glory, having prepared a mighty Army and a vast Mass of Treasure, the intent whereof was kept very secret) received his death's wound in his Caroche in one of the streets of Paris by a poisoned Dagger from the bloody hand of Ravilliac who was thought to be incited thereto by the Jesuits, that were not assured of that Kings through conversion (as they called it) to the Roman Church.  
In 1612 Prince Henry died, & there was a discourse that he was poisoned by a Bunch of Grapes, or by the venomous scent of a pair of Gloves, but the Physicians gave it under their hands that he died of a strong malignant Fever. In 1617. the King after 14 years absence-went into Scotland; March 27 1625 King James died at Theobates in the 59 year of Age, and the 22 of his Reign in England, and was buried at Westminister.  
LXIX. Charles his only Son and Heir succee led him, and in 1633. being the Ninth year of his reign, made a Journey into Scotland, and was Solemnly Crowned King at Edinburgh, though he would willingly have avoided the trouble of going thither; for he writ to a Scotish Lord who was entrusted with that Crown to bring it into England, that the Geremony might have been performed here, but the Lord returned answer; That he durst not be so false to his trust, yet if his Majesty would be pleased to accept thereof in scotland he should found those his people ready to yield him the highest honour, but if he should long defer that duty they might be perhaps inclined to make choice of another King.  
The Scotch Parliament were now sitting, and that Nation discovered great discontent at the passing of several Acts there; and the generality of the People would not suffer the Bishop of Dumblain Dean of the King's private Chapel there, to read the Common Prayer, neither durst they receive the Communion on their knees, nor wear a Surplice. In 1637 the King designing a Uniformity of Church Government in both Kingdoms sent them a Book of Common Prayer, or Liturgy, with an express command that they should read it in Churches; of which the Scotch complained, as not being allowed in their Church in a National Synod, that it was not the Same with that in England, but much altered in many places for the worst, the variations approaching directly to the Roman Missal, and that all the parts of Popery were there; The King published a Declaration to excuse it, alleging, That it was not rendered them in the same words with the English, jest they should misconstrue it as a budge of dependency of that Church upon this, and that the alterations were insensible, etc. But this did not satisfy, so that when the Book was read by the King's Command in the great Kirk at Edinburgh, a great uproar happened, in which the Bishop that read it hardly escaped, and the Nobility and ministers joining with the Plebeians, a petition was sent for recalling the order, but the King was , and sent another peremptory order for reading it, commanding all Petitioners to departed from Edinburgh, and that the Council should receive no more Petitions; and whereas the Bishops were charged as the cause of this iunovation, the King by Proclamation declared, that the Bishops were wrougfully accused about the Prayer Book, that he himself was the Author of it, and all done by his command; He condemned their proceed as Tumultuous, and denounced them Traitors who persist therein.  
Against this Proclamation the Lords of the Commission protested, and entered into a Solemn League and Covenant, which was subscribed by the Nobles, Ministers, and all sorts of men; at which the King was iuraged and condemned the Covenant, but at length was persuaded not to press the reading of the Book, Nou. 1. a National Synod is called at Glasgow, out within seven days it was dissolved by the Marquis of Hamilton as Commissioner; the Clergy protested against this Dissolution, and continued to 〈◊〉, and make what Laws and Decrees they thought fit, and than dissolved themselves and published a Declaration directed to all sincere and good Christians in England concerning the innodency of their intentions. The King after a sharp Proclamation, which he ordered to he read in all English Churches, raised an Army to subdue them by force; the Covenanting Lords published a Remonstrance in answer to it, and in pursuance there of seized all the considerable Forts and Castles, disarming all persons they deemed disaffected to them, and chose Sr. Alexander Lesly an old Soldier to be their General; but by the modiation of some moderate Peers a Pacification was made● June 18. 1639. and both Armies disbanded; but after the King's return to London, his heart was again estranged from the Scots and the paper of the Pacification which they had published was ordered to be burnt by the Common Hangman; The Scots complained of this, and that their Parliament was dissolved when great business of stare was depending, which was an open breach of their liberty; and against the Laws of the Kingdom, with other Greivances, of which they sent an account to the King by some Lords, who upon their coming to London were imprisoned in the Tower.  
April 13. following a Parliament was called in England with whom the King was urgent to raise money for a war with Scotland, but they the monstrating some averseness to that War, were dissolved May 5. following; to the great regret of the generality of the people, there having none been called for 11. years before; The War with Scotland now proceeded vigorously, the Earl of Stafford being General, and some skirmishes happened near Berwick; But divers of the English Nobility being unsatisfied with the present proceed, Petitioned the King to call another Parliament in England, to redress the Greivances of the Kingdoms who wanting Money, was obliged to comply with their desires, and in the mean time a Cessation of Arms was concluded for two Months, during which the Scors were to be paid 850. a day, or otherwise to raise it in the Northern Counties; The Parliament met at Westminster November 3. 1640. and discovered much kindness to the Scots, whom they judged the instruments of their meeting, and though the King had declated them Rebels, and desired they might be driven out of the Kingdom; yet the Parliament continued the Cessation, and ordered, That they should be recompensed for all their charges and losses that this mischievous War had brought upon them; That the Scotch ships taken since the War should be restored, and 4000 pound paid to newrig them; That the full sum of three hundred thousand Pounds should be given them toward a supply of the necessities of their brethrens of Scotland; The Scors' Commissioners at London gave thanks to both houses not only for the money, but for the kind Title of Brethrens, and all Books Libels and Proclaimations against the Scots were voted to be called in, and a Thanksgiving was appointed, for the happy Peace, and both Armies were to be instantly disbanded.  
These proceed still more incensed the King against the Scots, and in August 1641. he resolved to take a Journey into Scotland, though earnestly dissuaded from it by the Parliament. Oct. 23. while the King was there, the horrid Rebellion in Ireland broke forth, wherein above 200000. Protestants were sacrificed to the malice & fury of the Papists.  
In 1642. The King left London, and went to York, after whom the Parliament sent a Declaration, wherein they charge him, That at his being in Scotland he had countenanced the fish in their Rebellion, with several other severe Reflections. To which the King ret●●n'd answer, and writ a Letter to the Privy Council of Scotland to clear himself from the imputation of being Popishly affected, or guilty of the bloodshed in Ireland, etc.  
Hereupon the Scots interpbsed their mediation to compose the differences between the King and his Parliament. Humbly desiring him to harken to them as his greatest, best, and most unparalleed Council, &c, And like wife declared, They will not meddle with any verbal or real engagement for the King against them; for which the Parliament made them an affectionate acknowledgement. In 1643. the King set up his Standard at Notringham, and raised Forces against the Parliament, who likewise gathered an Army to oppose him, and many Battles and skirmishes happened between them, wherein the King was so successful that by the latter end of that year he had subdued all the West, Wales, and the North of England to the borders of Scotland. In this desperate condition the Parliament invited the Scots to come in to their assistance with an Army of Twenty one Thousand Horse and foot, engaging to pay an hundred thousand pound toward raising them; and the Solemn League and Covenant was ordered to be taken by all persons whatsoever; In pu● suance of this invitation the Scots entered England in January following with an Army of 18000. Foot and 2000 Horse, under the Earl of Leven their General, who took several Towns and Forts and much weakened the Earl of Newcastles Army, and were very serviceable in that great victory at Marston Moor July 3. 1644. wherein near 9000. of the King's Army were slain; And in October following the Town of Newcastle after a long siege was surendred to them; as York had been sometime before; while the Scots were assisting the Parliament the Marquis of Montross by the King's Commission raised an Army against the Covenanters in Scotland, who being joined by some Irish Rebels sent from thence under the Earl of Antrim, made sudden excursions out of the Highlands, and fell into the Neighbouring Countries, wasting and burning all before them, and than returned among the thick Woods and craggy mountains, so that to restrain them an Army of 12000 men was sent against them by the Parliament of Scotland, who declared Montross with some other Lords Traitors and Enemies to their Country; Montross had various fortune, at one time he killed and took prisoners 1500 of the Earl of Argiles men, and afterwards received a great defeat from General Huny and was forced to fly to his craggy retreats; soon after he was again beaten by Huny near Dundee; yet in a short time he shown himself again, and became very formidable to all Scotland; The Scotch Army were now at the siege of Newarck, but the Horse were obliged to march home to the relief of their Country, which by the frailty of human affairs, was in the space of one month lost and received again; for it being agreed between the King and Montross that the first should march Northward, and the other South to join and make a considerable Army in those parts, the Kendeavoured to do it with a good body of Horse but was prevented by the Parliaments Forces; yet Montross mindful of his promise, broke out into the South parts of Scotland with greater success than could have been expected, having scarce 4000 Highlanders and Irish, and at a place near Kilsithe the Scotch Army fell into one of his Ambuscades among the craggy rocks and straight passages, and were cut of with a miserable slaughter above 5000. being slain, and none escaped almost but whom the wearied Conquerors had not time to kill, Montross sparing none saying, They had no need of prisoners; The Covenanters had no Army for a Reserve, or Forces to stop the Victor, to whom almost all the Towns presently yielded, and his numbers daily increased. So that all the chief Nobility of that Party fled into England; but about a month after L●. General Lesly arriving there with his Horse, October 13. 1645. he engaged Montrosses Army at Selkrik and in an hours space gave him a total defeat, upon the same day (as a Germane Writer observes) wherein the Queen of England at Paris was singing Te Deum for Montrosses Victory at Kilsithe;  
Neither had the King's affairs better success in England, the Parliaments Forces having by many field battles and gaining of Towns, vanquished his Army in most Countries; some few Garrisons only defended themselves, and among them the strongest was Newwarck, which was straight besieged by General Leven, Pointz and Roffiter; but though the Plague raged in the Town, and they began to want provision, yet they held out in hopes of advantage from the discontents in the Scotch Army, who commplained of the neglect of Church Government, and the Covenant, and for want of pay though they had received above two hundred thousand pound in two years, besides great sums extorted from the Northern Countries;  
The King hearing of these dissenters, resolved if possible to serve himself of them, and therefore privately went out of Oxford, and came to the Scotch Camp at Southwell, May 5. 1646. The Scots seemed amazed at his coming, and gave notice of it to the English Commissioners there present, they sent the news to Parliament, who required them to detain the King at Southwell, but they contrary to that order carried him away with them Northward to Newcastle; The Scots excused their departure, Newark being yielded to the English by the King's order, and that no work was left for them, That as the King came to them of his own accord unexpected, so he followed their Army, neither being entreated nor forbidden by them.  
Upon this the Parliament voted, That the person of the King should be disposed of by both Houses of Parliament. Which caused great heats between the two Nations, but at length the Scots agreed to deliver up Berwick, Carlisle and Newcastle upon the receiving of four hundred thousand pound, and the King was delivered into the hands of the English Commissioners, and brought by them with great observance and honourable attendance to his Palace at Holmby in Northhamptonshire, and the Scotch Army marched home again; But June 4. 1647. he was taken away from thence out of the hands of the Parliament Commissioners, by a Party of the English Army, and brought by his own desire to Newmarket, and from thence to Hampton Court, and soon after the Parliament pass a vote, That they would make not further Address to the King; Who had a while before privately withdrawn himself to the Isle of Wight, and from thence had sent to the Parliament, that he might be admitted to Treat personally at London; the Commissioners of Scotland with great, vehemence pressing that it might be granted.  
The King's Friends were so exasperated with these Votes that several Insurrections were made at the same time in divers parts of England, so that the King this Summer 1648. though set aside and confined to the Isle of Wight seemed more formidable than when he was followed by the strongest Arms; but the greatest danger that threatened the Parliament was from the North, and Scotland, for Duke Hamilton in July with a numerous Army of Scots entered England, and by joining some English Forces became 25000, strong; but Cromwell and Lambert though much inferior, being some ten thousand, August 20. engaged them near Preston in Lancashire, and entirely routed them, killing 3000. and taking 9000. Prisoners, pursuing them above 20 miles; Duke Hamilton was taken with about 3000. Horse, and being brought to London was beheaded at Westminster; this was the Success of D. Hamiltons' invading England.  
Cromwell following his Victory, entered into Scotland to help Argile, and Leven, against the Forces of Monroe and Lanerick, whom he soon reduced, and was honourably entertained at Edinburgh by order of the Committee of Estates, and thanks were given him by Ministers, whom they Styled the preserver of Scotland under God; after which all the Forces there were disbanded, except 1500 under the Command of Leven, and the Estates and Kirk decreed, That for preservation of Religion and brotherly amity with the English Nation, no man which had joined with Hamilton in the late Invasion of England should be chosen into the New Parliament, or the Assembly of the Kirk; Though the year before these very Scots had declared the English Army to be a bundle of Sectarys or Rebels for acting the very same thing in England which they now did in Scotland  
After this a Treaty was propounded by the Parliament to the King at the Isle of Wight, and the King's Concessons were voted satisfactory; out the Army interposed, requiring that the Courtiers, and Actors in the late bloody War might be brought to speedy justice, without excepting either King or Lord, the Parliament themselves having before decreed and declared against the King, as well as the Kirk of Scotland, That he was guilty (besides other, horrid crimes) of shedding the blood of many thousands of his best subjects, which would provoke the Wrath of God if no satisfaction were made; and they might by deceitful Treaties betray themselves and their Friends to an implacable enemy; This was the sense of divers petitions from several Regiments in the Army; And to enforce their desires they marched to London, and seized about 40 Members of the House of Commons and accused 90 more for inviting in the Scots whom they required might be excluded; after which the remainder which were under an hundred, being found complaisant to their wills continued to sit, and made an Act for trying the King by an High Court of Justice, (though the House of Lords absolutely dissented & the Scotch Parliament was against it,) by which they Judged, condemned and executed the King Jan. 30. 1648. before his Palace Gate at White●hall  
LXX. The Parliament of Scotland having notice of this fatal stroke; Feb. 3. following they proclaimed Charles his Son King at Edinburgh, and than sent Commissioners to Treat with him at Breda, whither he was come from Jersey to that purpose, where it was concluded, that the King should sign the solemn League and Covenant, and pass an Act for all Persons to take it throughout the Kingdom, that he should withdraw his Commissions from Montross and put away all Papists from about him; with several other particulars; During which Treaty Montross was seized in Scotland for opposing the Kirk Party, and condemned and executed upon a Gibbet near 50 foot high, with all imaginable contempt, which had like to have broke of the Treaty if the necessity of the King's affairs would have permitted it.  
July 15. 1650. the K. arrived at Edinburgh and was again proclaimed there, but his Coronation was deferred because Cromwell with the English Army, was upon the Borders, whom the Scots under the Command of Mountgomery fell upon with great advantage at Musselborough, but were wholly defeated by them at Dumbar; Jan. 1. following, the King. was solemnly Crowned at St. Johnston, and resolved to be Generalissimo of his Army, and fortified Sterling; but Cromwell perceiving he could not draw the Scots to a Field battle, suddenly, transported over Fyfe 1600. foot and 4. Troops of Horse, who routed the Forces under Sr. John Brown, taking him and several others Prisoners, and killing 2000 on the place; The King seeing the English prevail so fast in Scotland resolved to quit it, and marched for England, which he did July 30. 1651. which Cromwell observing sent Lambert after him with a select Party of Horse; At length the King arrived at Worcester and fortified it, but was soon besieged there by the numerous Forces of the Parliament; who obliged him to quit the Town, and sally out with his Forces upon Cromwell's Army, by whom they were in a short time utterly defeated, the King making his escape, and getting into France; About 3000 were slain, and 700 taken Prisoners.  
After this the English took most of the strong Towns, Forts and Castles in the Lowlands, but the Highlanders made invasions upon them yet were at length totally defeated by General Monk and Colonel Morgan, who likewise dissolved the Assembly of the Kirk, and subjected the Presbyterian Clergy; things continued quiet in Scotland during the Protectorates of Oliver and Richard Cromwell, but the Army under Lambert, laying the last aside in 1659. and calling the remainder of the long Parliament to sit again, and afterwards turning them out, and settling a Council or Committee of safety consisting of Military Officers; these continual fluctuations in the Government occasioned general discontents throughout the 3. Kingdoms; and General Monk, who was than commander of all the English Forces in Scotland, was invited by the Presbiterians and others to march with his Army into England, which he did accordingly, having received some money from the Scots, and the blessing of the Kirk; He arrived in London, and reestablished the long Parliament, with secluded members, who dissolved themselves after having issued out writts for another Parliament to meet April 25. 1660. which voted the Restoration of K. Charles 2. and the Royal Family, and May 29. following the King made his solemn entrance into London with the General joy of the people.  
But though the Scots and English Presbiterians were principally instrumental in the restoration of King Charles 2. yet this signal service was soon forgotten; and severe Acts of Parliament were made in both Kingdoms against them, which occasioned much disturbance in both Nations, especially in Scotland, who having an invincible aversion to Prelacy could not endure the thoughts of its being again imposed upon them, but made several insurections, whereby many of them were cut of; so that by the influence of evil Counsellors (as his present Majesty when Prince of Orange in his declaration to the Kingdom of Scotland than published) the lives, honours and Estates of the Scots were desigued to have been ravished from them, and the whole reign of K. Charles 2. was but a continued conspiracy against thereligious & civillibert●es of that people.  
LXXI. After the Death of King Charles 2. which happened Feb. 1684. James Duke of York his Brother succeeded, in whose reign the people of Scotland had some relaxation of their troubles; and liberty of conscience was granted them, but in such arbitrary Ter●●s as shown the intentions thereof to be the utter enslaving them, the King declaring, that he expected obedience without reserve, that is, although his Commands were contrary to the most necessary and sundamental Laws of that Kingdom; But upon his abdication of the Government in 1688. The Scotch Nobility and Gentry in London addressed themselves to his Highness the Prince of Orange, desiring him to take upon him the Government of that Kingdom, which his Highness accepted.  
LXXII. The Estates being assembled at Edinburgh they sent Commissioners to their Majesties K. William, & Q. Mary with an Offer of that Crown, which they accepted, & accordingly took the Cronation Oath at the Banqueting House at Whitehall May 11. 1689. After which the Convention of Estates being turned into a Parliament they made several Acts for redressing the Grievances of that Nation, and having declared Prelacy to be a principal one, it was abolished, and the Presbiterian Government settled in the Church; some attempts were made by the Highlanders under Viscount Dundee and others, for restoring the late King James, but by the happy conduct of his Majesty and his Forces, they were all entirely suppressed, and at the meeting of the Parliament in 1693. they gave fresh assurances to their Majesties of their continued resolutions for supporting their Government against all opposers, by raising men and money for the defence thereof, and by declaring their Majesties Right to the Crown to be not only de Facto but de Jure, which they were resolved to assert with their Lives and Estates against the enemies of what kind so ever. May 19 1695. The Parliament of Scotland met, & the Marquis of Twedal made a speech, setting forth his Majesty's great care for the welfare of that Kingdom, & preserving the rights, & liberties thereof, acquainting them with the necessity of continuing the forces, etc. After this the Parliament ordered an address of Condoleance to be drawn ●p, & presented to his Majesty in their names, upon the deplorable death of her late Majesty; blessing God for the preservation of his Majesty, & declaring their hopes, that God will preserve a Life on which so much depends, & ●able his Majesty to finish what he has begun, that they 〈◊〉 the rest of Europe may in the issue own to his Majesty ●ull peace & security, as they do, under God, all their pre●ent happiness; renewing their assurances which they have ●ften given of their fidelity and assection readily ●o assist his Majesty to the utmost of their power ●gainst all his enemies both at home & abroad; To which ●is Majesty did singulary oblige them by the assurances ●e had given them to do whatsoever should be for the security of the Government & the satisfaction of his good subjects. In pursuance hereof, they proceeded to consider about securing the Kingdom, & agreed to 1440000. ●ounds Scots, for maintaining a convenient number of ●and forces, and a Naval strength requisite for Convoys ●or defence of the Coasts & Trade. An information of ●igh Treason was preferred against the E. of Braidalbin ●pon certain private Articles agreed on between him & ●. G. Buchan, with other Highland Clans in rebellion 1691. upon which he was committed to Edinburgh Castle. The Parliament having passed several acts, & one particularlly for making some seasonable abatements in Church matters they were Prorogued till further time, ●eaving the Kingdom in profound peace and security.  
I have been very brief in relating the passages in the reign of King Charles 1. and 2. and also of K. James; K. William. & Q. Mary, having already published several books ●f the same price with this, wherein a long account of all particulars is given, to which I refer the Reader; their ●ames being as follow. 1. The wars in England & Scot●and and Ireland during the reign of K. Charles 1. 2. The History of Oliver Cromwell. 3. The History of Charles 2. and James 2.4. The History of the House of Orange, & of K. William. & Q. Mary to this time.  

A Description of the Kingdom of Scotland.  
THis Ancient Kingdom is divided from England by the Rivers Tweed and Solway, the Cheviot Hills reaching from one River to the other on the South; It hath the Germane Ocean on the East; on the North the Isles of Orkney, and the Deucalidonian Sea; and the Kingdom of Ireland on the West; it is a fair and spacious Country 480 Miles in length, but in breadth far lesle, no place being 60 miles from the Sea; The air is sharp and cold, it hath Rivers, Woods, mountains, and low grounds which produce such plenty of Fish, Foul, Cattles and Corn, that it suplies the wants of other Countries.  
The People are generally well shaped, strong of Body, high minded, and so valiant in War that there are few Countries where they were not employed in Military affairs. The Nobility and Gentry are great affecters of Learning, and doubt only frequent their own Universities but travel into foreign parts for improvement. The whole Kingdom is divided into two parts the Lowlands and the Highlands, wherein are 34 shires or Counties; the Regal City thereof is Edinburgh seated in Lothian where is the Royal Palace; It consists principally of one street about a Mile long, into which run many lanes, so that the whole Compass may be about three miles; it is fortified by a Castle that Commands the Town; the South part of Scotland is more populous and rich, as well as more civilised in manners; The North or Highland inhabitants are more under retaining the customs of the Wild Irish.  
This Kingdom was once inhabited by two populous Nations, the Scots and Picts; but the Highland men, the natural Scots indeed are supposed to descend from the Scythians, who with the Getoe invading Ireland left their posterity behind them, and at length the word Scyth degenerated in Scot, and Scythland into Scotland; though some derive the name from Scota the Daughter of Pharaoh that saved Moses in the river;  
The Piets are thought to be the Britain's who fled out of Britrain from the Roman servitude, and settled themselves here, till after long Wars, the Scors prevailing they utterly extermined not only the Kingdom but the name of Picts. Scotland is far more Barren than England, the chief commodites are Liance Clo●●, Freeze, Fish, Hides, Led Oar etc. The Principal Rivers are Forth, Cluyde, and Tay all ●●vigable; The Lowlands are in disposition and Language much like the English. The most memerable Antiquities of this Country are,  
I. The ●orcification drawn from Abercorn to the Frith of Edinburgh, and thence to Dumbarton and the West Sea, where Jolius Agricola set the limits of the Roman Empire; at this place began the great and dark wood Caledonia famous for the wild white Bulls that were bred therein, with manes thick and curled like Lawons, so fierce and cruel by nature and so abhoring mankind that they would not meddle with any thing that was handled or breathed on by them; These Woods were of a great length and breadth containing many dark shades and dreadful dens that the Inhabitants securing themselves in the Covert of them were the last that yielded their necks to the Roman yoke.  
II. Another memorable matter is the Soland Geese, which are most plentiful about the Bass near Edinburgh, and are in such great numbers that they sometimes seem to darken the Air. There have been great disputes among the Learned about the generation of them, some asserting that they were bred of moist rotten Wood, lying in the Water; Others that they come of an Egg and are hatched like all other Geese; But many Scots men do assert, that they really grow upon a Tree called the Bamale Tree, and falling into the Water they in a shor● time receive life, and swim as others.  
III. Mr. Speed relates that in Merton Lake in thi● Country, part of the Waters are Frozen, and th● rest not; In the Lake of Lennox 24 miles in com● pass the Fish are generally without Finns, and ye● there is great abundance of them; It is said tha● when there is no wind stirring, the Waters of the Lak● are so tempestous that no mariner dare venture on it and that in the Lake of Nessa is a floating Island fu● of Grass, rushes and reeds, which removeth from on place to another with the Wind; That in Buqua● upon the Banks of Ratra, is a Well the drops of whic● trickling down are turned Pyramid wise into an har●stone, and another Lake near Edinburgh on the top whereof there floateth Bitumen.  
iv There belongeth to this Kingdom the Western Isles, the Orkneys, and the Isles of Shetland, being reckoned about three hundred in all; the la●● some Authors think to be Thule or the Fortunate Islands, where some ancient Poets feigned the Elision Fields were situated, into which the Souls of goo● men were sent that continues ever green and from whence, one writer says, julius Caesar the first Roman Emperor could hardly be persuaded to return, as being ravished with the pleasantness of the place; But the moral of this. Fiction is thought to be, that the Hea●thens were of opinion, the virtuous Souls of the 〈◊〉 were carried beyond the utmost bound 〈◊〉 the Earth (which they thought these Islands to be seated in, a having nothing but the vast Ocean beyond it) into a plac● of Eternal pleasure and happiness; But sure these places are very far from being always green, for on th● contrary they are almost continually covered with Ice and Snow.  
V Hector Boetius Writes that in this Country here is a deaf stone twelve foot high and thirtee thre● foot thick, of this rare quality, that a Musket shot of on the one side, cannot be heard by a man standing on the other; near Falkick remain the ruins and marks of a Town swallowed up by an Earthquake and the voided place is filled up with water; The Lake Lomond turneth Wood into stone; near a place called Dysert in Fise on the Seaside is a Heath where there is great plenty of Brimstone in the earth; in the County of Argile, saith Mr. Camden, are at this day Rind and read Doer ranging wild upon the Hills; Between the Coast of Cathnes and Orkney is a dreadful Frith or Gulf in the North end of which by reason of the meeting of contrary Tides or Currents is a male-stream or great Whirlpool, which whirleth continually about, and if any ship, boat or bark come within the reach thereof, they must instantly throw over somewhat into it, as a Barrel, a piece of Timber or the like, or else the Vessels will inevitably be swallowed up; which the Cathnes and Orknay Mariners-know very well, and observe it as a constant custom to redeem themselves that way from danger; Toward the North of Scotland (saith Mr. Speed) there be Mountains all of Alabaster, and some all of Marble. At the mouth of the River Frith in the main Sea is a very high rock out of whose top a spring of Water runs abundantly.  
The Snow lies all the year upon the Hills of Ross; A long piece of Amber, saith Mr. Camden, as big as a Horse was found lately upon the Coast of Bucquan; in which Country, they say, Rats are never seen, and if any be brought thither they will never live; It is credibly reported, saith Orteliu that there is a stone found in Argile which if covered a while with straw or Flax it will set it on fire.   


A List of the Kings of Scotland, from the year after the Creation of the World 3641. to this time.  
* ⁎ * Note, That the first to Kings undernamed, till Fergus 2, though recorded by Scortish Historians in an orderly Succession, yet want sufficient authority; therefore their actions are almost wholly omitted their names being only subjoined.  

1 Gathelus.  
2 Hiber.  
3 Hemericus.  
4 Brechus.  
5 Fergus 1.  
6 Feritharis.  
7 Manius.  
8 Dordavillo.  
9 Nothatus.  
10 Reuther.  
11 Reutha.  
12 Conarus.  
13 Josina.  
14 Finnacus.  
15 Durstus.  
16 Ewyn 1.  
17 Ewyn 2.  
18 Ederus.  
19 Ewyn 3.  
20 Metellane.  
21 Caratake.  
22 Corbred.  
23 Dardan.  
24 Galled.  
25 Lugtake.  
26 Conarus 2.  
27 Ethodius.  
28 Satrahel.  
29 Donald 1.  
30 Ethodius 2.  
31 Athico.  
32 Natholocus.  
33 Findock.  
34 Donald 2.  
35 Donald 3.  
36 Crathlint.  
37 Fincormach.  
38 Romacus.  
39 Fethelmacus.  
40 Eugenius 1.  
41 FERGUS 2.  
42 Eugenius 2.  
43 Dongard.  
44 Constantine.  
45 Congal.  
46 Conranus.  
47 Engenius 3.  
48 Congal 2.  
49 Kynatel.  
50 Aidan.  
51 Kenneth.  
52 Eugenius 4.  
53 Ferquard.  
54 Donald 4.  
55 Ferquard 2.  
56 Maldwin.  
57 Eugenius 5.  
58 Eugenius 6.  
59 Amberkeleth.  
60 Eugenius 7.  
61 Mordack  
62 Ethfin.  
63 Eugenius 8.  
64 Fergus 3.  
65 Solvathius  
66 Achalus  
67 Congal 3.  
68 Dongal.  
69 Alpine.  
70 Kenneth 2.  
71 Donald 5.  
72 Constantine 2.  
73 Ethus.  
74 Gregory.  
75 Donald 6.  
76 Constantine 3.  
77 Malcolm 1.  
78 Indulph  
79 duff  
80 Cullen.  
81 Kenneth 3.  
82 Constantine 4.  
83 Grime.  
84 Malcolm 2.  
85 Duncan.  
86 Macbeth.  
87 Malcolm 3.  
88 Donald 7.  
89 Edgar  
90 Alexander 1.  
91 David  
92 Malcolm 4.  
93 William 1.  
94 Alexander 2.  
95 Alexander 3.  
96 John Baliol.  
97 Rob. Bruce.  
98 Edw. Baliol.  
99 David Bruce.  
100 Robert 2.  
101 Robert 3.  
102 James 1.  
103 James 2.  
104 James 3.  
105 James 4.  
106 James 5.  
107 Q. Marry.  
108 James 6.  
109 Charles 1  
110 Charles 2.  
111 James 7.  
112 William. & Mary.  
113 William 2.    


The Names of the Lord High Commissioners, who have represented the Kings of Scotland since the union of the two Kingdoms.  
1604 Earl of Montross.  
1606 E. of Dumbar.  
1609 E. of Marshal.  
1612 E. of Dumferling.  
1621. Marq. of Hamilton.  
1638 M. of Hamilton.  
1639 E. of Traquair.  
1644 Marq. Montross.  
1660 E. of Middleton.  
1663. D. of Rothes.  
1669 D. Lauderdail.  
1681 D. of York.  
1685 Queensbery.  
1689 E. of Melvil.  
1692 Duke Hamilton.  
1695 E. of Twedall.    


Officers of State in Scotland.  
L. High Commissioner.  
L. Admiral.  
L. High Chancellor,  
L. High Treasurer.  
L. Precedent Privy Council.  
L. Privy Seal.  
L. High Chambeclain.  
L. High Constable.  
L. Great Marshal,  
L. Treasurer Deputy.  
L. Register.  
L. Advocate.  
L. Justice Clerk.    

A List of the Present Nobility in the Kingdom of Scotland  

Dukes 3.  
Hamilton D. Hamilton.  
Dowglass D. Queensbery.  
Gored on D. Gordon.   

Marquesses 3.  
Dowglass M. Dowglass.  
Graham M. Montross.  
Murray M. Athol.   

Earls 63.  
Campbel E. of Argile.  
Lindsay E. of Crawford.  
Hay E. of Arrol.  
Keith E. Martial.  
Southecl. E. Southerla.  
Erskeine E. Mar.  
Graham E. Monteith.  
Lesly E. of Rothes.  
Dowglass E. of Morton.  
Erskeine E. of Buchan.  
Cunningham E. Glencairn.  
Montgomery E. Eglington.  
Kennedy E. Cassills'.  
Sinclar E. Cathness.  
Stewart E. Murray.  
Maxwel E. Nidisdail.  
Seaton E. Winton.  
Levingston E. Linlithgow.  
Hume E. Hume.  
Drummond E. of Perth.  
Seaton E. of Dunfermling.  
Fleming E. Wigton.  
Lion E. of Strathmore.  
Ker. E. Roxborough.  
Hamilton E. Abercorn.  
Erskeine E. of Kelly.  
Hamilton E. Hadington.  
Stewart E. Galloway.  
Mackenzy E. Seaforth.  
Carr E. Lothian.  
Hay E. Kinnoul.  
Campell E. Lowden.  
Crichton E. Dumfreis.  
Alexander E. Sterling.  
Bruce E. Elgin.  
Carnegy E. Southesk.  
Stewart E. Traquair.  
Car E. Ancram.  
Weims E. Weims.  
Ramsey E. Dalhousie.  
Ogilbie E. Arlie.  
Ogilbie E. Finlator.  
Dalziel E. Carnwath.  
Levingston E. Callandar.  
Lesly E. of Leven.  
Johnstown E. Anandale.  
Mauld E. Panmeure.  
Hay E. of Twedall.  
Carnegy E. North-Esk.  
Bruce E. Kincarden.  
Lindsey E. Balcarres.  
E. Forfar.  
Middleton E. Middleton.  
Gordon E. of Aboyn.  
Scot E Tarrus.  
Levingston E. Newbrugh.  
Boyd E. Kilmarnock.  
Cochran E. Dundonald.  
Dowglass E. Dunbarton.  
Keith E. Kintor.  
campbel E. Braid-Albin.  
Gordon E. Aberdeen.  
E. Melvil.   

Viscounts. 15.  
Carey V Falkland.  
Constable V Dumbar.  
Murray V Stormont.  
Gordon V Kenmear.  
Arbuthnet V Arbuthner.  
Crichton V Frendraught.  
Saeton V Kingston.  
Macgil V Oxenford.  
Ingram V Irwing.  
Levingston V Kilsyth.  
Osborn V Dumblane.  
Graham V Preston.  
Cheyney V Newhaven.  
Graham V Dundee.  
Dalrymple V Stairs.   

Lords 47.  
L. Forbes.  
Frazer L. Salton.  
Grey L. Grace.  
Alex. L. Cathcart.  
Hen. L. Saintclare.  
Dowglass L. Mordington.  
Francis L. Semple.  
John L. Elphingston.  
Charles L. Oliphant.  
Frazer L. Lovat.  
John L. Borthwick.  
George L. Ross.  
Sandilands L. Torphichen.  
Leslie L. Lindoris.  
Elphingston L. Balmerinoch, & Cowper.  
Erskeine L. Cardrass.  
Stewart L. Blantire.  
James L. Crauston.  
Balfonr L. Burgleih.  
Kerr L. Jedburgh.  
Drummond L. Madertie.  
L. Reth.  
Archibald L. Napier.  
Henry L. Fairfax.  
Richardson L. Cramond.  
Walter L. Aston.  
Donald L. Rae.  
James L. Forrester.  
Forber L. Pitsligo.  
Macklel. L. Kirkudbright.  
Charles L. Frazer.  
Hamilton L. Bargeny.  
Ogilby L. Bamff.  
Murray L. Elibank.  
Galloway L. Founkel.  
Falconer L. Hacerton.  
Hamilton L. Belhaven.  
John L. Carmichel.  
Sutherland L. Duffes.  
Andrew L. Rollo.  
Robert L. Colvil.  
David L. Ruthen.  
John L. Rutherford.  
John L. Bellenden.  
Lesly L. Newark.  
Weims L. Burnt-Island.  
David L. Nairne.  
Hume L. Polward.    

Scotland is divided into Twenty three shires or Counties, each of which sand Two Barons Commissioners to sit as their Representatives in Parliament, the whole number being sixty six. There are likewise sixty five Royal Burroughs, which sand only one Burgess each, except Edinburgh which elects two; the whole number of Burgesses and Barons being 132.  
Before Prelacy was abolished by Act of Parliament there were in Scotland two Archbishoprics.  

Saint Andrews.  
Glasgow.   

Bishoprics 12.  
Edinburgh.  
Galloway.  
Dunkell.  
Aberdeen.  
Murray.  
Ross.  
Brechen.  
Dumblain.  
Cathness.  
The Isles.  
Argile.  
Orkney.   

Universities 4.  
St. Andrews,  
Aberdeen.  
Glasgow,  
Edinburgh.     
FINIS.   

A Catalogue of Books Printed for Nath. Crouch at the Bell in the Paul trey near Cheapside.  

History.  
1. ENgland's Monarches: Or, A Relation of the most remarkable Transactions, from Julius Caesar; adorned with Poems, and the Picture of every Monarch, from K. William. the Conqueror to this time. With a List of the Nobility, and the number of the Lords and Commons ' in both Houses of Parliament; and other useful particulars. Price one shilling.  
2. THe History of the House of Orange: Or a Relation of the Magnanimous Achievements of his Majesty's Renowned Predecessors, & likewise of his own Heroic Actions, till the Late Wondered Revolution. Together with the History of K. William and Q. Marry, Being an Account of the most remarkable passages to this time. By R. B. Price one shilling.  
3. THe History of the two late Kings, Charles' II. and James II. and of the most observable passages, during their Reigns; and the secret French and Popish Intriqus in those Times. Pr. 1 s.  
4. THe History of Oliver Cromwell, being an Impartial Account of all the Bartels, Seiges, & Military Achievements, wherein he was engaged in England, Scotland and Ireland; and likewise of his Civil Administrations, till his Death. Relating: matter, of Fact, without Reflection or Observation. By R. B. Pr. 1 s.  
5. THe Wars in England, Sentland and Ireland, containing 〈◊〉 Account of all the Battles, Sieges, and other remarkable Transactions, from the beginning of the Reign of K. Charles the First, 1625. to 1660. The Trial of K. Charles jaw large, and his last Speech; with Pictures of several Accidents. Pr. 1. shilling.  
6. HIstorical Remarks and Observations of the Ancient and present state of London & Westminister, showing the Foundations, Walls, Gates, Bridges, Churches, Rivers, Wards, Halls, Hospitals, Schools, Inns of Courts, Charters, and privileges thereof; with the most remarkable Accidents, as to Wars, Fires, Plagues, etc. for above 900 years past. Pr. 1 s.  
7. ADmirable Curiosities, Rarities and Wonders in England, Scotland, & Ireland; or an account of many remarkable persons and places; and of the Battles, Sieges, Earthquakes, Tempests, Thunders, Fires, Murders, & other Occurences for many hundred years past: with the Natural and Artificial Rarities in every County, and several Sculptures. Pr. 1 s.  
8. THE History of the Kingdom of Scotland, Containing an Account of all the Wars, Battles, & other remarkable Transactions, Revolutions and State Intriqus in that Nation during the Reigns of 72. Kings and Queens to the sixth year of King William III. Intermixed with variety of strange Accidents, Prodigious Appearances, and other considerable Events. And a List of the present Nobility of that Kingdom. Illustrated with Pictures. Pr. 1 s.  
9 THE History of the Kingdom of Ireland, being an Account of all the Battles, Seiges, & other memorable Passages during the late Wars there, till the entire Reduction thereof by the victorious Arms of K. William. III. To which is prefixed, a relation of the Ancient Inhabitants, & the first Conquest of that Nation by K. Henry II. The horrid Rebellion in 1641. & the Popish and Arbitrary designs in the last Reigns, Pr. 1 s.  
10. THE History of the Principality of Wales in three parts: Containing, 1. A brief account of the ancient Kings and Princes of Britain and Wales, till the final extinguishing of the Royal british Line. 2. Remarks upon the Lives of all the Princes of Wales of the Royal Families of England, from K. Edward I. to this time, particularly of Edmund the black Prince of Wales, who with 30000 English defeated an Army of 100000 French at Cressy; and at Poitiers with 10000 beaten 80000, and took John the French King Prisoner. Also of Henry of Monmouth (afterwards K. Henry V) who with 13000 routed 90000 French, whose Son Henry VI. was Crowned K. of France at Paris. 3. Remarkable Observations on the most memorable Persons and Places in Wales, and of divers considerable Passages for many hundred years past: With the birth and strange actions of Merlin the famous Welsh Prophet. And the Natural and Artificial Rarities in every County of that Principality. pr. 1 s.  
11. THe Unfortunate Court Favourites of England; Exemplified in some Remarks upon the Lives, Actions and Fatal Fall of divers Great Men, who have been Favourites to several English Kings and Queens. Namely, I. Peirce Gaveston Favourite to K. Ed. 2. TWO, III. Hugh Spencer the Father and Son, both Favourites to K. Ed. 2. IV. Rog. Mortimer Favourite to Q. Isabel, Mother to K. Ed. 3. with their private Amours, etc. V H. Stafford Favourite to Crook-backt Richard, with that King's secret Intriqus for usurping the Crown, and murdering his Nephews. Likewise the Character of Jane Shore by Sir Tho. More who saw her. VI Cardinal Woolsey; VII. Tho. L. Cromwell; both Favourites to K. Henry 8. VIII. E. of Essex, Favourite to Q. Elizabeth. IX. D. of Bucks Favourite to K. Charles I and K. James I X. E. of Strafford, Favourite to K. Charles I. With all their Pictures. Price one shilling.  
12. The English Empire in America, or a prospect of his Majesty's Dominions in the West-indieses, namely, Newfoundland, New-England, New-York, New-Jersey, Pensylvania, Mary-land, Virginia, Carolina, Bermudas, Berbuda, Anguila, Monserrat, Dominica, St. Vincent, Antego, Mevis of Nevis, St. Christopher's, Barbadoss and Jamaica: With an account of their Discovery, Situation and Product: The Religion and Manners of the Indians, etc. To which is prefixed a relation of the discovery of this New World & of the remarkable Voyages of Scbastin Cabot, S. Frobisher, Martin Davis, C. Weymouth, C. Hall, C. Hudson, Sir T. Cavendish, the E. of Cumberland, Sir W. Raleigh and other English Worthies, With Pictures of the strange Fruits, Birds, Beasts, Fishes, Infects, Serpents and Monsters found in those parts of the World. pr. 1 s.  
13 A View of the English Acquisitions in Guinea & the East-indieses: With an Account of the Religion, Government, Wars, strange Customs, Beasts, Serpents, Monsters, and other Observables in those Countries. A description of the Isle of St. Helena, and the Bay of Souldania; intermixed with pleasant Relations. pr. 1 s.  
14. THe English Hero: Or, Sir Francis Drak Revived. Being a full Account of the dangerous voyages, admirable Adventures, notable Discoveries and Magnanimous Achievements of that Valiant and Renowned Commander. As, I. His Voyage in 1572. to Nombre de Dios in the West-indieses, where they saw a Pile of Bars of Silver near 70 foot long, 10 foot broad, and 12 foot high. II. His encompassing the whole World in 1577. which he performed in two years and ten months, gaining a vast quantity of Gold and Silver. III. His Voyage into America in 1585. and ●aking the Towns of St. Jago, St. Domingo, Carthagena and St. Augustine. iv His last Voyage into those Countries in 1595. with his Death and Burial. Revised Corrected, enlarged, and beautified with Pictures. By R. B. pr. 1 s.  
15. TWo Journeys to Jerusalem, Containing first, An account of the Travels of two English Pilgrims some years since, and what Accidents befell them in their Journey of Jerusalem, Grand Cairo, Alexandria, etc. II. The Travels of 14 Englishmen in 1669. With the Antiquities, Monuments and Memorable Places mentioned in Scripture. To which are prefixed, Memorable Remarks on the Ancient and modern State of the Jewish Nation, As 1. A Description of the Holy Land, its Situation, Fertility, etc. 2. The several Captivities of the Jews: 3. Probable Conjectures what is become of the Ten Tribes carried Captive by the Assyrians, with Divers pertinent Relations pursuant thereto. 4. The State of the Jews since their extermination, with the present condition of Palestine. 5. Of the Septuagint or seventy Jewish Interpreters of the Law of Moses. Together with a Relation of the great Council of the Jews in Hungary, in 1650. to examine the Scriptures concerning Christ. Written By S. B. an Eye-witness. The wondered delusion of the Jews by a false Christ at Smyrna 1666. The final Extirpation of the Jews of Persia the same year, and the occasion thereof. The Proceed between the Jews, and Oliver Cromwell in 1655. The Epistle of Agbarus with our Saviour's Answer: Beautified with Pictures pr. 1 s.  
16. EXtraordinary Adventures of several Famous Men: With the strange Events, and signal mutations and changes in the Fortunes of divers Illustrious places and persons in all Ages; being an account of a multitude of stupendous Revolutions, accidents, and observable matters in divers States and Provinces throughout the World; With Pictures. Pr. 1 s.  
17. The History of the Nine worthies of the World: Three whereof were Gentiles: 1. Hector Son of Priamus K. of Troy. 2. Alexander the great King of Macedon. 3. Julius Caesar first Emp. of Rome, Three Jews. 4. Joshua C. General of Israel. 5. David K. of Israel. 6. Judas Maccabeus a valiant Jewishcommander against the Tyranny Antiochus. 3. Christians. 7. Arthur K. of Britain. 8. Charles the Great K. of France, & Emp. of Germany. 9 Godfrey of Bullen K. of Jerusalem. Being an account of their Lives, and Victories. With Poems and the Picture of each Worthy By. R. B. Pr. 1 s.  
18. Female Excellency, or the Lady's Glory, Illustrated in the Lives of nine Famous Women, who have been renowned in several Ages of the World: As 1. Deborah the Prophetess. 2. The valiant Judith. 3. Q. Esther. 4. The virtuous Susannah. 5. The  Lucretia. 6. Boadicia Q. of Britain, in the Reign of Nero, containing an account of the Original Inhabitants of Britain. The History of Danaus and of his fifty. Daughters, who murdered their Husbands in one Night. Of the valour of Boadicia, under whose conduct the Britain's slew 70 thousand Romans, with other remarkable particulars. 7. Mariam Wife of K. Herod 8. Clotilda Q. of France. 9 Audegona Prince of Spain. Adorned with Poems and Pictures. Pr. 1 s.  
19  Prodigies of judgement & mercy, discovered in above 300 memorable Histories; containing, 1. Dreadful judgements upon Atheists, Blasphemers, & Perjured Villains. 2. The miserable ends of many Magicians, etc. 3. Remarkable predictions & presages of approaching Death, & how the event has been answerable. 4. Fearful judgements upon bloody Tyrants, murderers, etc. 5. Admirable Deliverances from imminent dangers and deplorable distresses at Sea and Land, Lastly, Divine goodness to penitents, with the dying thoughts of several famous Men, concerning a future state. Pr. 1 s.  
20. Unparallelled Varieties, or the matchless Actions and Passions of Mankind; displayed in near 400. notable Instances and Examples, discovering the transcendent Effects, 1. Of Love, Friendship and Gratitude. 2. Of Magnanimity, Courage and Fidelity. 3. Of Chastity, Temperance and Humility: And on the contrary, the Tremendous consequence, 4. Of Hatred, Revenge and Ingratitude. 5. Of Cowardice, Barbarity and Treachery. 6. Of Unchastity. Intemperance and Ambition. Embellished with Figures. Pr. 1 s.  
21. THe Kingdom of darkness: Or, The History of Demons, Spectres, Witches, Apparitions, & other supernatural Delusions, & Malicious Impostures of the Devil. Containing near 80 memorable Relations, Foreign and Domestic, ancient and modern. Collected from Authors of undoubted Verity. With a Preface obviating the Common Objections of the Sadducees and Atheists of the Age, who deny the Being of Spirits, Witches, etc. With Pictures. Pr. 1 s.  
22. SArprized miracles of Nature and Art, in two parts; containing, 1. The miracles of Nature, or the wondered signs, and prodigipus Aspects and Appearances in the Heavens, Earth and Sea; with an account of the most Famous Comets, and other Prodigies, from the birth of Christ to this time. 2. The Miracles of Art, describing the most Magnificent Buildings, and other Curious Inventions in all ages, as the seven wonders in the World, and many other excellent Structures and Rarities throughout the Earth. Beautified with Pictures. pr. 1 s.  
23. THe General History of Earthquakes: Or An Account of the most Remarkable Earthquakes, in divers parts of the World, from the Creation to this time, particularly those lately in Naples, Smyrna, Jamaica, England and Sicily; With a Description of the famous Burning Mount Aetna, and several other late strange Accidents. As I. A surprising Account of Angels Singing Psalms in the Air, over the Ruins of a Protestant Church in France in the year 1686. With the words they Sang in the hearing of many hundred. II. The Life of a Great Person of near an Hundred years old, now an Hermit in a Forest in France, with the Devotions, Clothing, Diet, etc. of him and his Companions, etc. III. The wondered Army of Grasshoppers near Breslaw in Silesia, Septemb. 7. 1693. and in other parts of Germany; which in their March took up sixteen Miles devouring every Green thing. iv Three Miraculous Cures wrought by Faith in Christ, in 1693. As 1. Of Mary Maillard the French Girl healed of an extreme Lameness. 2. The Wife of Mr. Savage Cured of a Lame Hand. 3. A Shepherd near Hitchin in Hartfordshire instantly healed of the King's Evil, under which he had languished Twenty Years. pr. 1 s.  
24. MEmorable Accidents and Unheard of Transactions, containing an account of several strange Events: As the Deposing of Tyrants, Lamentable Shipwrecks, Dismal Misfortunes, Stratagems of War, Perilous Adventures, Happy Deliverances, with other remarkable Occurrences, and select Historical passages, which have happened in several Countries in this last Age. Printed at Brussels in 1691. and Dedicated to K. William, etc. Published in English by R. B. pr. 1 s.  
25. Martyr's in Flames, or Popery in its true Colours; being a Relation of the horrid Persecution of the Pope and Church of Rome, for many hundreds of years past, in Piedmont, Bohemia, Germany, Polland, Lithuania, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Scotland, Ireland and England; with an abstract of the cruelties exercised upon the Protestants in France and Savoy in 1686, and 1687. and an account of God's Judgements upon Popish Persecutors. pr. 1 s.   

Miscellanies.  
26. DElights for the Ingenious, in above Fifty Select Emblems, Divine and Moral, curiously Engraven on Copper Plates, with 50 delightful Poems and Lots, for the lively Illustration of each Emblem, whereby instruction may be promoted, by pleasant Recreation; to which is prefixed, A Poem, entitled, Majesty in Misery, or an Imploration of the K. of Kings, written by K. Charles I. in Carisbrook Castle in the Isle of Wight, 1648. with a curious Emblem. Collected by R. B. Price 2 s. 6 d.  
27. EXcellent Contemplations, Divine and Moral, written by A. L. Capel, with some account of his Life, his Letters to his Lady, and his last Speech. Also the Speeches of D. Ham. and the Earl of Holland, who suffered with him: Price one shilling.  
28. Winter Evenings Entertainment, in two parts, Containing, 1. Ten Pleasant Relations of many Notable Accidents. 2. Fifty Ingenious Riddles, with their Explanations, Observations and Morals upon each. Enlivened with above 60 Pictures, for illustrating every Story and Riddle; Excellently accommodated for cheerful Society and Conversation. Pr. 1 s.  
29. Esops' Fables in Prose and Verse, the 2d Part Collected from Ancient and Modern Authors, with Pictures and proper Morals to every Fable. Several applicable to the present time. By R. B. pr. 1 s.   

Divinity.  
30 THE Divine Banquet, or Sacramental Devotions, consisting of Morning and Evening Prayers, Contemplations and Hymns for every day in the Week, in order to a more Solemn Preparation for the worthy Receiving of the Holy Communion, representing the several steps and degrees of the sorrows and sufferings of our blessed Saviour, till he gave up the Ghost: As, 1. His Agony in the Garden. 2. His being betrayed by Judas. 3. His being falsely accused, smitten, buffeted, and spit upon before Caiaphas the High Priest. 4. His condemnation, scourging, crowning with Thorns, and being delivered to be crucified by Pontius Pilate. 5. His bearing the Cross. 6. His Crucifixion. 7. Our Saviour's Institution of the Blessed Sacrament. With brief Resoutions to these objections, alleged for the omission of this Important duty. With eight curious Sculptures proper to the several parts, with Graces. Imprimatur, Z. Isham, R. P. D. Hen. Episc. Lond. a Sacris. pr. 1 s.  
31. A Guide to Eternal Glory: Or, brief Directions to all Christians how to attain Everlasting Salvation: To which are added several other small Tracts. As, 1. Saving Faith discovered in three Heavenly Conferences between our Blessed Saviour, and, 1. A Publican. 2. A Pharisee. 3. A doubting Christian. 2. The Threefold state of a Christain: 1. by Nature. 2. By Grace. 3. In Glory. 3. The Scriptures concord, compiled out of the Words of Scripture, by way of question and answer, wherein there is the sum of the way to Salvation, and spiritual things compared with spiritual. 4. The Character of a true Christain. 5. A brief Directory for the great, necessary, and advantageous duty of self examination, whereby a serious Christian may every day examine himself. 6. A short Dialogue between a Learned Divine and a Beggar. 7. Beams of the Spirit, or Cordial Meditations, enlivening, enlighting, and gladding the Soul. 8 The Seraphic Souls Triumph in the Love of God; with short remembrances, and pious thoughts. 9 History improved, or Christian Applications of remarkable passages in History. 10. Holy Breathe in several Divine Poems, upon divers Subjects and Scriptures. pr. 1 s.  
32. Youths Divine Pastime; Containing Forty Remarkable Scripture Histories, turned into English Verse. With Forty Pictures proper to each story; very delightful for the virtuous employing the vacant hours of young persons, and preventing vicious divertisements. With Scripture Hymns upon divers occasions. Price 8 d.  
33. The Young Man's Calling, or the whole Duty of Youth, in a serious and compassionate Address to all young persons to remember their Creator in the days of their Youth. Together with Remarks upon the Lives of several excellent young Persons of both Sexes, as well Ancient as Modern, who have been famous for Virtue and Piety in their Generations. With twelve curious Pictures, Illustrating the several histories. Price 1 s. 6 d.  
34. THe Vanity of the Life of Man represented in the Seven several Stages thereof; With Pictures and Poems exposing the Follies of every Age. Price Eight pence.  
35. DIstressed Zion Relieved, or, the Garment of Praise for the Spirit of Heaviness. A Poem. Wherein are discovered the Grand Causes of the Church's trouble and misery under the late dismal Dispensations. With a complete History of, and Lamentations for those Renowned Worthis that fell in England, by popish rage and Cruelty, from the year 1680. Humbly dedicated to their Majesties. By B. Keach. pr. 1 s.  
36. ANtichrist Stormed, or the Church of Rome proved to be Mystery Babylon the Great Whore, Rev. 17. by many and undeniable Arguments, Answering all the Objections of the Papists, and all others. Together with the Judgement of many Ancient and Modern Divines, and most Eminent Writers concerning the rise and final Ruin of the Beast and Baby●on, proving it will be in this present Age, with an Account of many strange Predictions relating to these present Times. By B. Keach. Price one shilling.  
37. The Devout Souls Daily Exercise in Prayers, Contempations and Praises, containing Devotions for Morning, Noon, and Night, for every day in the week; with Prayers before and after the Holy Communion: And likewise for Persons of all conditions, and upon all occasions: With Graces and Thanksgivings before and after Meat. By R. P. D. D. Price pound Six Pence.  
38 SAcramental Meditations upon divers select places of Scripture, wherein Believers are assisted in preparing their hearts, and exciting their affections and graces, when they draw nigh to God, in that most awful and solemn Ordinance of the Lord's Supper. By Jo. Flavel Minister of Christ in Devon. Price one Shilling.  
37. JACOB Wrestling with GOD, and prevailing; Or, a Treatise concerning the Necessity and Efficacy of Faith in Prayer: Wherein divers weighty Questions and cases of Conscience about praying in Faith, are stated and resolved: For the satisfying of scrupulous Consciences; Conviction of formal Hypocrites, awakening of all Saints, both weak and strong, to this duty of prayer. pr. 1 s.  
38. THe true light shining in Darkness, and dispelling the mists of Error arising from the Darkness of Man's heart, etc. Promoted by the Prince of Darkness against the truth of God, in the matter of out Justification: in Three parts; showing, First, That by the deeds of the Law, or Man's own Righteousness no Flesh can, or shall be Justified in the sight of God. Secondly, That the righteousness of God is the only matter of our Justification. Thirdly, The Time and season wherein God doth justify his Elect. Both by Tho. Taylor, formerly Minister to a Congregation in St. Edmund's Bury, now at Cambridge, price. 1 s. two pence.    

All Printed for Nath. Crouch at the Bell in the Poultry, near Cheapside.  
FINIS.