History of the Reformation of the Church of Scotland, Book 1 · Floating text 3 – Letter 2

History of the Reformation of the Church of Scotland · Book 1 · Floating text 3 – Letter 2

p. 60The first Article.

Thou false Hereticke, Runnagate, Traytor, and Thief, Deceiver of the people, despisest the Church, and in like case contemnes my Lord Governours Authority. And this we know of surety, That when thou preachedst in Dundie, and was charged by my Lord Governours Authority to desist; neverthelesse thou wouldest not obey, but persevered in the same: And therefore the Bishop of Breachen cursed thee, and delivered thee into the Devils hand, and gave thee then Commandment, That thou shouldest preach no more; yet notwithstanding thou didst continue obstinately.

The Answer.

My Lords, I have read in the Acts of the Apostles, That it is not lawfull, for the threats and menaces of men, to desist from the preaching of the Gospel: Therefore it is written, We shall rather obey God than men. I have also read the Prophet Malachie; I shall curse your blessings, and blesse your cursings, saith the Lord. Believing firmly, That he would turn your cursings into blessings.

The second Article.

Thou false heretick didst say, That a Priest standing at the Altar saying Masse, was like a Fox wagging his taile in July.

The Answer.

My Lords, I said not so. These were my sayings, The moving of the body outward, without inward moving of the heart, is nought else but the playing of an Ape, and not the true serving of God. For God is a secret searcher of mens hearts. Therefore who will truely adore and honour God, he must in spirit and verity honour him. Then the accuser stopped his mouth with another Article.

The third Article.

Thou false hereticke Preachest against the Sacraments, saying, That there are not seven Sacraments.

p. 61The Answer.

My Lords, It is not so by your pleasures, I taught never of the number of the Sacraments, whether there were seven or eleven: so many as are instituted by Christ, and are showne to us by the Gospel, I professe openly. Except it be the Word of God, I dare affirme nothing.

The fourth Article.

Thou false hereticke hast openly taught, That Auricular Confession is not a blessed Sacrament, and thou saist, That we should onelyonly confesse us to God, and to no Priest.

The Answer.

My Lords, I say, That Auricular Confession, seeing that it hath no promise of the Gospel, truely it cannot be a Sacrament. Of the Confession to be made to God, there are many testimonies in Scripture, as when David saith,Note. I thought that I would acknowledge mine iniquity against my self unto the Lord, and he forgave the trespasses of my sins. Here confessing signifieth the secret knowledge of our sins before God. When I exhorted the people on this manner, I reproved no manner of Confession: And farther, Saint Iames saith, Acknowledge your sins one to another, and so let you have peace among your selves. Here the Apostle meaneth nothing of Auricular Confession, but that we should acknowledge and confesse our selves to be sinners before our brethren, and before the world, and not to esteeme our selves,Note. as the Gray Friers do, thinking themselves already purged. When that he had said these words, the horned Bishops and their complices cryed and gyrned with their teeth, saying, See ye not what colours he hath in his speech, that he may beguile us, and seduce us to his opinion?

The fifth Article.

Thou false heretick didst say openly, That it was necessary for every man to know and understand his Baptisme; which is contrary to Generall Councels, and the Estates of holy Church.

The Answer.

My Lords, I believe there be none so unwise here, that will make Merchandise with any French-men, or any other unknowne stranger, except he know and understand first the condition or promise made by the French-man or stranger. So likewise I would that we understood what thing we promise in the name of the Infant unto God in Baptisme. Then said M. Peter Chaplin, That he had the devill within him, and the spirit of terrour. Then answered him a childe, saying, The devil cannot speak such words as yonder man doth speake.

The sixth Article.

Thou false Hereticke, Traytor, and Thiefe, thou said, That the Sacrament of the Altar was but a piece of bread baken upon the ashes, and no other thing p. 62else; and all that is there done, is but a superstitious Rite, against the Commandment of God.

The Answer.

Oh Lord God! so manifest lyes and blasphemies, the Scripture doth not teach you. As concerning the Sacrament of the Altar (my Lords) I never taught any thing against the Scripture, the which I shall (by Gods grace) make manifest this day, I being ready therefore to suffer death. The lawfull use of the Sacrament is most acceptable unto God. But the great abuse of it, is very detestable unto him: But what occasion they have to say such words of me, I shall shortly shew your Lordships. I once chanced to meet with a Iew, when I was sayling upon the water of Rhene;Note. I did enquire of him, What was the cause of his pertinacie, that he did not believe that the true Messias was come, considering that they had seen all the Prophesies which were spoken of him, to be fulfilled: Moreover, the Prophesies taken away, and the Scepter of Iuda. By many other testimonies of the Scripture I witnessed to him, and proved that the Messias was come, the which they called Iesus of Nazareth? This Iew answered again unto me, When Messias cometh, he shall restore all things, and he shall not abrogate the Law which was given unto our Fathers, as ye do; for why? We see the poor almost perish through hunger amongst you, yet you are not moved with pity towards them: But amongst us Iewes, though we be poor, there are no beggers found. Secondarily, It is forbidden by the Law to fain any kinde of Imagery, of things in heaven above, or in the earth beneath, or in the Sea under the earth, but one God onelyonly to honour. But your Sanctuaries and Churches are full of Idolls. Thirdly, a piece of bread baked upon the ashes, ye adore and worship, and say that it is your God. I have rehearsed here but the sayings of a Iew, which I never affirmed to be true. Then the Bishops shook their heads, and spitted on the ground; and what he meaned in this matter further, they would not hear.

The seventh Article.

Thou false hereticke didst say, That extreme Unction was not a Sacrament.

The Answer.

My Lords, forsooth I never taught of extreme Unction, in my Doctrine, whether it was a Sacrament or no.

The eighth Article.

Thou false hereticke didst say, That holy water is not so good as Wash, and such like. Thou contemnest conjuring, and sayest, That holy Churches cursing availeth not.

The Answer.

My Lords, as for holy water, what strength it is of, I taught never in my Doctrine. Conjurings and Exorcisms, if they were conformable to the Word of God, I would commend them; but in as much as they are not conformable to the Commandment and Word of God, I reprove them.

p. 63The ninth Article.

Thou false Hereticke and runagate, hast said, That every man is a Priest; and likewise thou sayest, That the Pope hath no more power then another man.

The Answer.

My Lords, I taught nothing but the Word of God, I remember that I have read in some places of S. Iohn, and S. Peter, of the which one saith, He hath made us kings and priests. The other saith, He hath made us the kingly Priesthood. Wherefore I have affirmed, Any man understanding and perfit in the Word of God, and the true faith of Jesus Christ, to have his power given him from God, and not by the power or violence of men, but by the vertue of the Word of God, the which word is called, The power of God, Note this against the legality of the Bishops.as witnesseth S. Paul, evidently enough. And againe I say, Any unlearned man, and not exercised in the Word of God, nor yet constant in his Faith, whatsoever estate or order he be of; I say, he hath no power to binde or to loose, seeing he wanteth the instrument by the which he bindeth and looseth, that is to say, The Word of God. After that he had said these words, all the Bishops laughed, and mocked him: When that he beheld their laughing; Laugh ye (said he) my Lords? Though that these my sayings do seem scornfull, and worthy of derision to your Lordships, neverthelesse they are very weighty to me, and of a great value; because that they stand not onelyonly upon my life, but also upon the honour and glory of God. In the meane time many godly men, beholding the woodnesse and great cruelty of the Bishops, and the invincible patience of the said M. George, did greatly mourne and lament.

The tenth Article.

Thou false Hereticke saidst, That a man had no free-will, but is like to the Stoicks, which say, That it is not in mans will to do anything, but that all desire and concupiscence cometh of God, of whatsoever kinde it be of.

The Answer.

My Lords I said not so, truely, I say, That as many as beleeve in Christ firmely, unto them is given liberty conformable to the saying of S. Iohn, If the Sonne make you free, then shall you verily be free: Of the contrary, as many as beleeve not in Christ Jesus, they are bond-servants of sin: He that sinneth, is bound to sin.

The eleventh Article.

Thou false Hereticke sayest, It is as lawfull to eat flesh upon Friday, as on Sunday.

The Answer.

Pleaseth it your Lordships, I have read in the Epistles of S. Paul, That who is cleane, unto him all things are cleane: Of the contrary, to the filthy men all things are uncleane. A faithfull man, cleane and holy, sanctifieth by the Word, the creature of God; but the creature maketh no man acceptable p. 64unto God. So that a creature cannot sanctifie any impure and unfaithfull man. But to the faithfull man all things are sanctified by the prayer of the word of God. After these sayings of M. George, then said the Bishops with their complices; What needed we any witnesse against him, hath he not here openly spoken blasphemie?

The twelfth Article.

Thou false Hereticke doest say, That we should not pray unto Saints, but to God onelyonly; Say whether thou hast said this or no, say shortly.

The Answer.

For the weaknesse and infirmity of the hearers, he said, without doubt plainely, That Saints should not be honoured, nor called upon. My Lords (said he) there are two things worthy of note.Note. The one is certaine, and the other uncertain. It is found plainely and certain in Scriptures, That we should worship and honour one God, according to the saying of the first Commandment, Thou shalt onelyonly worship and honour thy Lord God with all thine heart. But as for praying to, and honouring of Saints, there is great doubt amongst many, whether they heare or no the invocation made unto them. Therefore I exhorted all men equally in my Doctrine, That they should leave the unsure way, and follow the way which was taught us by our Master Christ. He is onelyonly our Mediatour, and maketh intercession for us to God his Father. He is the doore by the which we must enter in: He that entreth not in by this doore, but climeth another way, is a thiefe and a murderer. He is the veritie and life: he that goeth out of the way, there is no doubt he shall fall into the mire: Yea, verily he is fallen into it already. This is the fashion of my Doctrine, the which I have ever followed. Verily that which I have heard and read in the Word of God, I taught openly and in no corners, and now ye shall witnesse the same, if your Lordships will heare me: Except it stand by the Word of God, I dare not be so bold to affirme any thing. These sayings he rehearsed divers times.

The thirteenth Article.

Thou false Hereticke hast Preached plainely, That there is no Purgatory, and that it is a fained thing, for any man after this life to be punished in Purgatory.

The Answer.

My Lords, as I have oftentimes said heretofore; Without expresse witnesse and testimony of Scriptures, I dare affirme nothing. I have oft, and divers times read over the Bible, and yet such a terme found I never, nor yet any place of Scripture applicable thereto. Therefore I was afraid ever to teach of that thing which I could not finde in Scripture. Then said he to M. Iohn Lawder, his accuser; If you have any testimony of the Scripture, by the which you may prove any such place, shew it now before this auditory. But that dolt had not a word to say for himselfe, but was as dumbe as a Beetle in that matter.

p. 65The fourteenth Article.

Thou false Hereticke hast taught plainly against the Vows of Monks, Friers, Nuns, and Priests, saying, That whosoever was bound to such like Vows, they vowed themselves to the state of damnation. Moreover, That it was lawfull for Priests to marry wives, and not to live sole.

The Answer.

Of this, my Lords, I have read in the Gospel, That there are three kinde of chaste men, some are gelded from their mothers womb: some are gelded by men, and some have gelded themselves for the kingdom of heavens sake; Verily, I say, these men are blessed by the Scripture of God. But as many as have not the gift of chastity; nor yet for the Gospel, have overcome the concupiscence of the flesh, and have vowed chastity; ye have experience, although I should hold my tongue, to what inconveniences they have vowed themselves. When he had said these words, they were all dumb, thinking it better to have ten concubines then one wife.

The fifteenth Article.

Thou false Hereticke, and runnagate sayest, That thou wilt not obey our Generall Provinciall Counsells.

The Answer.

My Lords, what your generall Counsells are, I know not, I was never exercised in them, but to the pure Word of God, I gave my labours. Read here your generall Counsells, or else give me a book, wherein they are contained, that I may read them; if they be agreeable with the Word of God, I will not disagree. Then the ravening Wolves turned unto madnesse, and said; Wherefore let we him speak any farther? Read forth the rest of the Articles, and stay not upon them. Amongst those cruell Tygers, there was one false hypocrite,This was Fri… Scot. a seducer of the people, called Iohn Scot, standing behinde Iohn Lawders backe, hasting him to reade the rest of the Articles, and not to tarry upon his wittie and godly answers; For we may not abide them (quoth he) no more then the devil may abide the signe of the Crosse, when it is named.

The sixteenth Article.

Thou Hereticke sayest, That it is vain to build to the honour of God costly Churches, seeing that God remaineth not in Churches made by mens hands, nor yet can God be in little space, as betwixt the Priests hands.

The Answer.

My Lords, Salomon saith, If that the heaven of heavens cannot comprehend thee, how much lesse this house which I have builded. And Iob consented to the same sentence, saying, Seeing that he is higher then the heavens, therefore what canst thou build unto him; he is deeper then the hell, then how shalt thou know him, he is longer then the earth, and broader then the sea, so that God cannot be comprehended in one place, who is infinite. p. 66These sayings notwithstanding, I said never that Churches should be destroyed: But of the contrary I affirmed ever, That Churches should be maintained and upholden,Note. that the people should be assembled in them to hear the Word of God Preached. Moreover, wheresoever is the true Preaching of the Word of God, and the lawfull use of the Sacraments, undoubtedly there is God himselfe: So that both these sayings are true together; God cannot be comprehended in any one place: And wheresoever are two or three gathered in his Name, there is he present in the midst of them. Then said he to his accuser, If thou thinkest any otherwise; Then I say, Shew forth thy reasons before this auditory. Then he without all reason was dumbe, and could not answer a word.

The seventeenth Article.

Thou false Hereticke contemnest fasting, and sayest thou shouldest not fast.

The Answer.

My Lords, I finde that fasting is commanded in the Scripture, therefore I were a slanderer of the Gospel, if I contemned fasting. And not so onelyonly, but I have learned by experience, that Fasting is good for the health and conservation of the body. But God onelyonly knoweth who fasteth the true Fast.

The eighteenth Article.

Thou false Hereticke hast Preached openly, saying, That the soules of men shall sleepe to the latter day of judgement, and shall not obtaine life immortall untill the last day.

The Answer.

God full of mercy and goodnesse forgive them that say such things of me. I wot, and know surely by the Word of God, that he who hath begun to have the Faith of Jesus Christ, and to beleeve firmely in him; I know surely, I say, that the soule of that man, shall never sleepe, but ever shall live an immortall life, the which life from day to day is renewed in Grace, and augmented, nor yet shall ever perish, or have an end, but shall ever live immortall with Christ the head. To the which life, all that beleeve in him shall come, and rest in eternall glory. Amen.

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

p. 67The Prayer of Master George Wischarde.

O Immortall God, how long shalt thou suffer the rage and great crudelitie of the ungodly, to exercise their fury upon thy servants which doe further thy Word in this world, seeing they desire to do the contrary; That is, to choke and destroy thy true Doctrine and Veritie, by the which thou hast shewed thee unto the world which was all drowned in blindnesse and misknowledge of thy Name. O Lord, we know surely that thy true servants must needs suffer for thy Names sake, persecution, affliction, and troubles in this present life, which is but a shadow, as thou hast shewed to us by thy Prophets and Apostles. But yet we desire thee (mercifull Father) that thou wouldst conserve, defend, and help thy congregation, which thou hast chosen before the beginning of the world, and give them thy grace to heare thy Word, and to be thy true servants in this present life.

Then by and by they caused the common people to remove, whose desire was always to hear that Innocent man speak. Then the sons of darknesse pronounced their sentence definitive, not having respect to the Judgement of God. When all this was done and said, the Cardinall causeth his tormentors to passe again with the meek Lambe unto the Castle, untill such time as the fire was made ready. When he was come into the Castle, then there came two fiends, two gray-Friers, Frier Scot and his mate, saying, Sir, you must make your confession unto us. He answered, I will make no confession: Go fetch me yonder man that preached unto us this day, and I will conferre with him. Then they sent for the Sub-prior of the Abbey, who came to him with all diligence. And conferred with him a pretty while, at last burst forth in teares, but so soon as he was able to speak, he asked him, If he would receive the Communion; Master Wischarde answered, He would most willingly, if he could have it according to Christs institution under both kindes. The Sub-prior went to the Cardinall and his Prelats, he told them, That Master Wischarde was an innocent man; which he said, not to intercede for his life; but to make known the innocency of the man unto all men, as it was known to God. At these words the Cardinall was angry, and said to the Sub-Prior, Long agoe we knew what you were; Then the Sub-Prior demanded, Whether they would suffer M. Wischarde to receive the Communion or no; They answered, No. A while after M. Wischarde had ended with the Sub-Prior, the Captaine of the Castle, with some other friends, came to him, and asked him; If he would break fast with them; He answered, Most willingly, for I know you to be most honest and godly men; So all being ready, he desired them to sit downe, and heare him a while with patience; Then he discoursed to them about halfe an houre concerning the Lords Supper, his Sufferings and Death for us; He exhorteth them to love one another, laying aside all rancor, envie, and vengeance as perfect members of Christ, who intercedes continually for us to God the Father. After this he gave thanks, and blessing the Bread and Wine, he took the Bread and brake it, and gave to every one of it, bidding each of them, Remember that Christ had died for them, and feed on it spiritually ▪ So taking the Cup, he bade them, Remember that Christs blood was p. 68shed for them, &c. And after he gave thanks and prayed for them. When he had done, he told them, That he would neither eat nor drink more in this life; and so retired to his Chamber. Immediately after came to him (sent from the Cardinall) two executioners; one brought him a coat of Linnen died black, and put it upon him; The other brought some baggs full of Powder, which they tied to severall parts of his body: Thus having dressed him, they brought him to an outer Roome, neere to the gate of the Castle; Then the fire was made ready, and the Stake at the West port of the Castle, neere to the Priory. Over against the place of execution, the Castle Windows were hung with rich hangings and Velvet Cushions, laid for the Cardinall and Prelats, who from thence did feed their eyes with the torments of this innocent man. The Cardinall dreading that Master George should have been taken away by his friends; Before had commanded to bend all the ordnance of the Castle right against the place of execution; and commanded all his Gunners to be ready, and stand beside their Gunnes, unto such time as he was burnt. All this being done, they bound Master George his hands behinde his backe, and with sound of Trumpet, led him forth with the Souldiers, from the Castle, to the place of their cruell and wicked execution. As he came forth of the Castle gate, there met him certain beggars, asking of him almes for Gods sake; To whom he answered, I want my hands, wherewith I was wont to give you almes; But the mercifull Lord, of his benignity and abundant grace, that feedeth all men, vouchsafe to give you necessaries both unto your bodies and soules. Then afterward met him two false Fiends, (I should say Friers) saying, M. George, pray to your Lady, that she may be a Mediatrix for you to her Sonne: To whom he answered meekly; Cease, tempt me not, I intreat you. After this he was led to the fire, with a rope about his neck, and a chaine of iron about his middle.

When that he came to the fire he sat downe upon his knees, and rose againe; And thrice he said these words; O thou Saviour of the world, have mercy on me: Father of heaven, I commend my spirit into thy holy hands. When he had made this Prayer, he turned him to the people, and said these words, having obtained leave to speak a little: I beseech you Christian brethren and sisters, that ye be not offended at the Word of God, for the affliction and torments which ye see already prepared for me. But I exhort you that ye love the Word of God for your salvation, and suffer patiently, and with a comfortable heart, for the Words sake, which is your undoubted salvation, and everlasting comfort. Moreover, I pray you, shew my brethren and sisters, which have heard me oft before, that they cease not, nor leave off to learne the word of God which I taught them, after the grace given unto me, for no persecutions nor troubles in this world, which last not: And shew unto them that my Doctrine was no wives fables, after the constitutions made by men; And if I had taught mens doctrine, I had gotten greater thanks by men. But for the Words sake and true Gospel, which was given to me by the grace of God, I suffer this day by men, not sorrowfully, but with a glad heart and minde. For this cause I was sent, That I should suffer this fire for Christs p. 69sake. Consider and behold my visage, ye shall not see me change my colour: This grim fire I fear not, and so I pray you for to do, if that any persecution come unto you for the Words …ake; and not to fear them that slay the body,Note. and have no power afterward to slay the soul. Some have said of me, That I taught that the soul of man should sleep untill the last day: But I know surely, and my faith is such, That my soul shall sup with my Saviour this night, ere it be six hours, for whom I suffer this. Then he prayed for them which accused him, saying, I beseech the Father of heaven to forgive them that have of any ignorance, or else of any evil minde forged lies upon me; I forgive them with all my heart: I beseech Christ forgive them that have condemned me to death this day ignorantly. And last of all, he said to the people on this manner; I beseech you brethren and sisters to exhort your Prelats to the learning of the Word of God▪ that they may be ashamed to do evil, and learn to do good; And if they will not convert themselves from their wicked errour, there shall hastily come upon them the wrath of God, which they shall not eschew. Many faithfull words said he in the meane time, taking no heed or care of the cruell torments which were then prepared for him. Then the Executioner that was his tormentor, sate down upon his knees, and said, Sir, I pray you forgive me, for I am not guilty of your death. To whom he answered, Come hither to me: When he was come to him, he kissed his cheek, and said, Lo here is a token that I forgive thee, my heart, do thy Office: And then by and by the Trumpet sounding, he was tyed to the stake, and the fire kindled. The Captain of the Castle, for the love he bore to M. Wischarde, drew so neer to the fire, that the flame thereof did him harme; he wished M. Wischarde to be of good courage, and to beg from God the forgivenesse of his sins; to whom M. Wischarde answered thus; This fire torments my body, but no wayes abates my spirit. Then M. Wischarde looking towards the Cardinall, said, He who in such state, from that high place, feedeth his eyes with my torments, within few dayes shall be hanged out at the same window, to be seen with us much ignominy, as he now leaneth there in pride. Then with this, the Executioner drawing the Cord, stopt his breath; presently after, the fire being great, he was consumed to powder. The Prelats would not suffer any prayers to be made for him, according to their Custome. After the death of Master Wischarde, the Cardinall was cryed up by his flatterers, and all the rabble of the corrupt Clergie, as the onelyonly Defender of the Catholike Church, and punisher of hereticks, neglecting the authority of the sluggish Governour: And it was said by them, That if the great Prelates of latter dayes, both at home and abroad, had been so stout and zealous of the credit of the Catholike Church, they had not onelyonly suppressed all hereticks, but also kept under the Lay-men, who were so froward and stubborne. On the other side, when that the people beheld the great tormenting of that innocent, they could not withhold from piteous mourning, and complaining of the innocent lambs slaughter. After the death of this blessed Martyr of God, began the people in plaine speaking, to damne and detest the cruelty that was used; yea, men of great birth and estimation and honour at open tables avowed, That the blood of the said Master George should be revenged, or else it should cost life for life: and p. 70that in a short time they should be like hogs kept for slaughter, by this vitious Priest, and wicked Monster, which neither minded God, nor cared for man. Amongst those that spake against the Cardinalls cruelty, Iohn Lesley, brother to the Earle of Rothes was chief, with his Cozen Norman Lesley, who had been a great follower of the Cardinall, and very active for him but a little before, fell so foule with him, that they came to high reproaches one with another. The occasion of their falling out was a private businesse, wherein Norman Lesley said he was wronged by the Cardinall: On the other side, the Cardinall said he was not with respect used by Norman Lesley his inferiour. The said Iohn Lesley in all companies spared not to say, That that same dagger (shewing forth his dagger) and that same hand should be put in the Cardinalls brest. These brutes came to the Cardinalls ears:Note. but he thought himselfe stout enough for all Scotland: For in Babylon, that is, in his new Block-House, he was sure, as he thought, and upon the fields he was able to match all his enemies: And to speak the truth, the most part of the Nobility of Scotland had either given unto him their Bands of Manred, or else were in confederacy, and promised amity with him, and so he gave his bastard eldest daughter in Marriage to the Earl of Crawford his eldest son and heir, and caused the Wedding to be celebrate with such State, as if she had been a Princes lawfull daughter. He onelyonly feared them in whose hands God did deliver him, and for them he laid his nets so secretly (as that he made a full compt) that their feet could not escape, as we shall after hear. And something of his former practices we may recompt. After Easter he came to Edinburgh, to hold the Seingnye (as the Papists termed then their unhappy Assembly of Baals shaven sort) It was bruted that something was purposed against him at that day by the Earle of Angus and his friends, whom he mortally feared, and whose destruction he sought; but it failed, and so returned he to his strength; yea, to his god and onelyonly comfort, as well in heaven as in earth; and there he remained without all fear of death, promising to himself no lesse pleasure then did the rich man of whom mention is made by our Master in the Gospel; for he did not onelyonly say, Eat and be glad, my soul, for thou hast great riches laid up in store for many dayes; but he said, Tush, a figge for the fooles, and a button for the bragging of heretickes, and their assistance in Scotland: Is not my Lord Governour mine? witnesse his eldest son in pledge at my table. Have I not the Queen at my owne devotion (he meant of the mother Mary that now 1566 raigns) Is not France my friend, 1566and I am friend to France? What danger should I feare? And thus in vanity the carnall Cardinall delighted himself a little before his death. But yet he had devised to have cut off such as he thought might trouble him: For he had appointed the whole Gentlemen of Fyfe to have met him at Falkland the Munday; but he was slain upon the Saturday before. His treasonable purpose was not understood, and it was this; That Norman Lesley, Sheriff of Fyfe, and apparent heir to his Father the Earl of Rothes ▪ the foresaid Iohn Lesley, Father brother to Norman; the Lairds of Grange, elder and younger; Sir Iames Learmond of Darsie, and Provost of Saint Andrewes; and the faithfull Laird of Raith, should either have been slain, or else taken, and after to have beene p. 71used at his pleasure. This enterprise was disclosed after his slaughter, partly by Letters and Memorialls found in his chamber, but plainly affirmed by such as were of the counsell. Many purposes were devised, how that wicked man might have been taken away; But all faileth, till Friday the twenty eighth of May, 1546.anno 1546. when the aforesaid Norman came at night to Saint Andrewes, William Kirkaldie of Grange younger, was in the Towne before, waiting upon the purpose. Last came Iohn Lesley as aforesaid, who was most suspected: What conclusion they took that night, it was not knowne, but by the issue that followed. But early upon the Saturday in the morning, the 29 of May, were they in sundry Companies in the Abbey Church-yard, not far distant from the Castle: First, the Gates being open, and the draw-Bridge letten downe, for receiving of Lime and Stones, and other things necessary for building (for Babilon was almost finished) First, we say, assayed William Kirkcaldie of Grange younger, and with him six persons, and getting entry, held purpose with the Porter, If my Lord was walking; who answered, No: (and so it was indeed,How the Cardiall was occupied the night before that in the morning he was slain. for he had been busie at his compts with Mistris Marion Ogilbie that night, who was espied to depart from him by the privie Posterne that morning; and therefore quietnesse, after the rules of Physick, and a morning sleep, was requisite (for my Lord.) While the said William and the Porter talketh, and his servants made them to look the work and workmen, approached Norman Lesley with his company; and because they were in great number, they easily gat entrie. They addresse to the midst of the Court: and immediately came Iohn Lesley, somewhat rudely, and four persons with him: The Porter fearing, would have drawne the Bridge; but the said Iohn being entred thereon, stayed it, and leapt in▪ And while the Porter made him for defence, his head wa… broken, the Keyes taken from him, and he cast into the ditch, and so the place was seized. The shout ariseth; the work-men, to the number of more then a hundred, ran off the walls, and were without hurt put forth at the Wicket Gate. The first thing that ever was done, William Kirkaldie took the Guard of the privy Posterne, fearing lest the Fox should have escaped. Then go the rest of the Gentlemens Chambers, and without violence done to any man, they put more then fifty persons to the Gate: The number that enterprised and did this, was but sixteen persons. The Cardinall wakened with the shouts, asked from his window, What meant that noyse? It was answered, That Norman Lesley had taken his Castle: Which understood, he ran to the Posterne; but perceiving the passage to be kept without, he returned quickly to his Chamber, took his two handed sword, and caused his Chamberlain to cast Chests and other impediments to the doore. In this mean time came Iohn Lesley unto it, and bids open. The Cardinall asking, Who calls; he answered, My name is Lesley. He demanded, Is that Norman? The other saith, Nay, my name is Iohn. I will have Norman, saith the Cardinall, for he is my friend. Content your self with such as are here, for other you shall have none. There were with the said Iohn, Iames Melvene, a man familiarly acquainted with Master George Wischarde, and Peter Carmichaelle, a stout Gentleman. In this mean time, while they force at the door, the p. 72Cardinall hides a box of gold under coales that were laid in a secret corner. At length he asketh, Will ye save my life? The said Iohn answered, It may be that we will. The Cardinals demand.Nay (saith the Cardinall) Swear unto me by Gods wounds, and I will open you. Then answered the said Iohn, It that was said, is unsaid; and so cryed; Fire, fire, (for the doore was very strong) and so was brought a chimley full of burning coales, which perceived, the Cardinall or his Chamberlain (it is uncertain) opened the doore, and the Cardinall sat down in a chaire,The Cardinals confession. and cryed, I am a Priest, I am a Priest, ye will not slay me. The said Iohn Leslie (according to his former Vows) stroke him first once or twice, and so did the said Peter. But Iames Melvin (a man of nature most gentle and most modest) perceiving them both in choler, withdrew them, and said, This work and judgement of God (although it be secret) ought to be done with greater gravity. And presenting unto him the point of the sword,The fact and words of Iames Melvin. said, Repent thee of thy former wicked life, but especially of the shedding of the blood of that notable instrument of God M. George Wischarde, which albeit the flame of fire consumed before men, yet cries it for vengeance upon thee, and we from God are sent to revenge it. For here before my God, I protest, That neither the hatred of thy person, the love of thy riches, nor the fear of any trouble thou couldst have done to me in particular, moved, or moveth me to strike thee; But onelyonly because thou hast been, and remainest an obstinate enemy against Christ Iesus and his holy Gospel. And so he stroke him twice or thrice thorow with a stog sword: And so he fell, never word heard out of his mouth,The Cardinals last words. but I am a Priest, fie, fie, all is gone.

While they were thus busied with the Cardinall, the fray rose in the Town, the Provost assembles the Commonalty, and comes to the house side, crying, What have ye done with my Lord Cardinall? Where is my Lord Cardinall? Have ye slain my Lord Cardinall? They that were within answered gentlely; Best it were for you to return to your own houses, for the man ye call the Cardinall hath received his reward, and in his own person will trouble the world no more. But then more inragedly they cry, We shall never depart till that we see him. And so was he brought to the East block-house head, and shewed dead over the wall, to the faithlesse multitude, which would not beleeve before they saw, and so they departed without Requiem aeternam, & requiescat in pace, sung for his soule. Now because the weather was hot (for it was in May, as ye have heard) and his funerals could not suddenly be prepared, it was thought best to keep him from stinking to give him great salt enough, a cope of lead, and a corner in the bottom of the sea Tower (a place where many of Gods children had been imprisoned before) to await what exequies his brethren the Bishops would prepare for him.Advertisement to the Reader. These things we write merrily, but we would that the Reader should observe Gods just judgements, and how that he can deprehend the worldly wise in their own wisdom, make their table to be a snare to trap their own feet, and their own purposed strength to be their own destruction. These are the works of our God, whereby he would admonish the tyrants of this earth, that in the end he will be revenged of their crueltie, what strength soever they make in the contrary. But such is the blindnesse of man (as David saith) that the posterity doth ever follow the footsteps of their wicked fathers, and principally in their impiety. For how p. 73little differs the cruelty of that bastard, that yet is called Bishop of S. Andrews, from the cruelty of the former we will after heare.

The death of this aforesaid Tyrant, as it was pleasing to some, to wit, to those who had received the Reformation of Religion, for they were mightily afraid of him▪ and also to sundry Romanists whom he kept under as slaves; so on the other side it was dolorous to the Priests, dolorous to the Governour, dolorous to the Queene Dowager: for in him perished faithfulnesse to France, Note.and the comfort to all Gentle-women, and especially to wanton widows: His death must be revenged. To the Court again repaires the Earle of Angus, and his brother Sir George; labour is made for the Abbacie of Arbroth, and a grant was once made of the same (in memory whereof George Dowglas, bastard sonne to the said Earle, is yet called Postulant.) But it was more proper (think the Hamiltons) for the Governours itching, then for reward to the Dowglasses; And yet in hope thereof, the said Earle, and Sir George his brother, were the first that voted, that the Castle of S. Andrews should be besieged: Divers Gentlemen of Fyfe went into the Castle, and abode there with the Leslies during the first siege; and Iohn Rough was Preacher to them. The Bishop,The Bishop of S Andrews was glad, and yet made himselfe to be angry at the slaughter of the Cardinall. to declare the zeale that he had to revenge the death of him that was his predecessour (and for his riches he would not have had him living againe) still blew the coles. And first he made summons, then he denounced accursed, at last rebels, not onelyonly the first enterprisers, but all such also as after did accompany them. And last of all a siege was concluded, which began in the end of August (for the 23 day thereof departed the Souldiers from Edinburgh) and continued neer to the end of January. At what time, because they had no other hope of winning of it, but by hunger, and thereof also they despaired, for they within had broken through the East wall, and made a plaine passage by an iron gate to the sea, which greatly relieved the besieged, and abased the besiegers; for then they saw that they could not stop them of victuals, unlesse that they should be masters of the sea, and that they clearly understood they could not be; for the English Ships had once been there, and had brought William Kirkcaldie from London, and with much difficultie (because the said gate was not then prepared) and some losse of men, had rendered him to the Castle againe; and had taken with them to the Court of England, Iohn Leslie, and Master Henry Balnaves, for perfecting of all Contracts betwixt them and the King Henry, who promised to take them into his protection,Upon what conditions King Henry took the castle of S. Andrews into his protection. upon condition onelyonly that they should keep the Governours son, my Lord of Arrane, and stand friends to the Contract of Marriage, whereof before we have made mention. These things clearly understood (we say) by the Governour and his Counsell, the Priests and the shaven sort; they concluded to make an appointment, to the end, that under Truce, they might either get the Castle betrayed, or else some principall men of the company taken at unawares.The first …iege lasted from August to January. In which dressing was the Abbot of Dunfermeling principall; and for that purpose had the Laird of Monquhanie (who was most familiar with those of the Castle) laboured with foot and hand, and proceeded so in his traffique, that from entring in day light, at his pleasure, he gat licence to come in in the night, whensoever it pleased him. But God had not appointed so p. 74many to be betrayed, albeit that he would that they should be punished, and that justly, as hereafter we shall heare.

The Heads of the coloured appointment were;

1. That they should keep the Castle of S. Andrews still, while that the Governour and the authority of Scotland should get unto them a sufficient absolution from the Pope Antichrist of Rome, for the slaughter of the Cardinall aforesaid.

2. That they should deliver pledges for the deliverie of that house, as soone as the aforesaid absolution was delivered unto them.

3. That they, their friends, familiars and servants, and others to them pertaining, should never be pursued in Law, by authority, for the slaughter aforesaid. But that they should enjoy commodities, spirituall or temporall, whatsoever they possessed before the said slaughter, even as if it had never beene committed. That they of the Castle should keep the Earle of Arran so long as their Pledges were kept.

And such like Articles liberall enough, for they never minded to keep word of them, as the issue did declare. Iohn Rough left the Castle, seeing he could do little good upon those that were within, so addicted were they to their evil wayes; he went into England to Preach Gods Word there.

The appointment made, all the godly were glad, for some hope they had that thereby Gods Word should somewhat bud, as indeed so it did: For Iohn Rough (who soon after the Cardinals slaughter entred within the Castle and had continued in it during the whole siege) having left the Castle, because he could do little good upon those that were with him; so addicted were they to their evil wayes, began to Preach in the city of S. Andrews. And albeit he was not the most learned, yet was his doctrine without corruption, and therefore well liked of the people. At the Easter after Anno 1547. came to the Castle of S. Andrews, 1547.Iohn Knox, Iohn Knox goes into the Castle of S. Andrews.who wearied of removing from place to place, by reason of the persecution that came upon him by the Bishop of S. Andrews, was determined to have left Scotland, and to have visited the Schools of Germany (of England then he had no pleasure, by reason that although the Popes name was suppressed, yet his laws & corruptions remained in full vigor.) But because he had the care of some Gentlemens children, whom certain yeers he had nourished in godlinesse. Their fathers solicited him to go to S. Andrews, that himselfe might have the benefit of the Castle, and their children the benefit of his Doctrine. And so (we say) came he the time aforesaid to the said place; and having in his company Francis Dowglas of Langnidrie, George his brother, and Alexander Cokburne, eldest son then to the Laird of Ormeston, began to exercise them, after his accustomed manner. Besides the Grammar and other books of humane Learning, he read unto them a Catechisme, account whereof he caused them give publikely in the Parish Church of S. Andrews. He read moreover unto them the Gospel of Iohn, proceeding where he left at his departure from Langnidrie, where before his residence was, and that Lecture he read in the Chappell within the Castle at a certain houre. They of the place, but specially M. Hen. Balnaves & Iohn Rough Preacher, perceiving the manner of his Doctrine, began earnestly to travell with him, that he would take the Function of Preacher upon him: but he refused, alleadging that he would not run where God had not called him, meaning, that he would p. 75do nothing without a lawfull vocation. Whereupon they privily amongst themselves advising, having with them in counsel Sir David Lindsay of the Mount **Sir David Lindsay King of Armes then, who fore the time had good light both in Divine and Humane knowledge, as his works tell us., they concluded that they would give a charge to the said Iohn, and that publikely, by the mouth of the Preacher. And so upon a certain day, a Sermon of the Eelection of Ministers, what power the Congregation (how small soever that it was, passing the number of two or three) had above any man, namely, in the time of need, as that was, in whom they supposed, and espied the gifts of God to be; and how dangerous it was to refuse, and not to heare the voyce of such as desire to be instructed. These & other heads (we say) declared the said Iohn Rough Preacher, directed by his words to the said Iohn Knox, The first Vocation by name of Iohn Knox.saying, Brother, ye shall not be offended, albeit that I speak unto you that which I have in charge even from all those that are here present, which is this: In the Name of God, and of his Son Iesus Christ, and in the name of these that presently call you by my mouth, I charge you that ye refuse not this holy Vocation, but as ye tender the glory of God, the encrease of Christs Kingdom, The edification of your Brethren, and the comfort of me, whom ye understand well enough to be oppressed by the multitude of labours, That ye take upon you the publike office and Charge of Preaching, even as ye looke to avoyd Gods heavy displeasure, and desire that he shall multiply his Graces upon you. And in the end he said to those that were present, Was not this your Charge to me? And do ye not approve this Vocation? They answered, It is, and we approve it. Whereat the said M. Iohn abashed, burst forth in most abundant tears, and withdrew himself to his Chamber: His countenance and behaviour, from that day, till the day that he was compelled to present himself to the publike place of Preaching, did sufficiently declare the grief and trouble of his heart; for no man saw any signe of mirth of him, neither yet had he pleasure to accompany any man, for many dayes together. The necessity that caused him to enter in the publike Place, besides the Vocation aforesaid, was Dean Iohn Annan (a rotten Papist) had long troubled Iohn Rough in his Preaching. The said Iohn Knox had fortified the Doctrine of the Preacher by his Pen, and had beaten the said Dean Iohn from all defences,Dean Iohn. Annan. that he was compelled to flie to his last refuge; that is, To the authority of the Church, which Authority, said he, damned all Lutherans and Heretickes, and therefore he needed no further disputation. Iohn Knox answered, Before we hold our selves, or that ye can prove us sufficiently convinced, we must define the Church by the right notes given to us in Gods Scripture, of the true Church: we must discerne the Immaculate Spouse of Iesus Christ, from the mother of Confusion, Spirituall Babilon; lest that imprudently we embrace a Harlot, instead of the chaste Spouse; yea, to speake it in plain words, Lest that we submit our selves to Sathan, thinking that we submit our selves to Iesus Christ: For as for your Romane Church, as it is now corrupted, and the Authority thereof, wherein stands the hope of your Victory, I no more doubt but that it is the Synagogue of Sathan; and the Head thereof, called the Pope, to be that man of Sin of whom the Apostle speaketh, then that I doubt that JESUS CHRIST suffered by the procurement of the visible Church of Jerusalem.The offer of Iohn Knox first and last unto the Papists. Yea, I offer my self by word or writing, to prove the Romane Church this day farther to degenerate from the purity which p. 76was in the dayes of the Apostles, then was the Church of the Iewes from the Ordinance given by Moses, when they consented to the innocent death of JESUS CHRIST. These words were spoken in the open audience of the Parish Church of Saint Andrewes, after the said Dean Iohn had spoken what it pleased him, and had refused to dispute. The people hearing the offer, cryed with one consent, We cannot all reade your writings, but we can all hear your Preaching: Therefore we require you in the Name of God, That ye let us heare the approbation of that which ye have affirmed: The first publike …reaching of Iohn Knox, made in the Parish Church of S. Andrew….For if it be true, we have beene miserably deceived. And so the next Sunday was appointed to the said Iohn, to expresse his minde in the publike Preaching place: Which day approaching, the said Iohn took the Text written in Daniel, the seventh Chapter, beginning thus; And another King shall rise after them, and he shall be unlike unto the first, and he shall subdue three Kings, and shall speak words against the most High, and shall consume the Saints of the most High, and thinke that he can change Times and Lawes: And they shall be given unto his hands untill a time, and times, and dividing of times, &c. In the beginning 1of his Sermon, he shewed the great love of God towards his Church, whom he pleased to forewarne of dangers to come, so many 2yeers before they come to passe. He briefly treated of the state of the Israelites, who then were in bondage in Babylon, for the most part, and made a short discourse of the four Empires, The Babylonian, The Persian, That of the Greekes, And the fourth of the Romanes; in the destruction whereof, rose up that last Beast, which he affirmed to be the Romane Church; for to none other power that ever hath yet beene, do all the notes that God hath shewed to the Prophet appertain, except to it alone; And unto it they do so properly appertaine, that such as are not more then blinde, may cleerly see them. But before he began to open the corruptions of Papistrie, he defined the true Church, shewed the true notes of it, whereupon it was built, why it was the Pillar of Verity, and why it could not erre; to wit, Because it heard the voyce of the onelyonly Pastor, JESUS CHRIST, would not heare a stranger, neither would be carried with every winde of Doctrine. Every one of these heads sufficiently declared, he entred to the contrary; and upon the notes given in his Text, he shewed that the Spirit of God in the new Testament gave to this King other new names; to wit, The man of sin, The Antichrist, The Whore of Babilon. He shewed, That this man of sin, or Antichrist, was not to be restrained to the person of any one man onelyonly, no more then by the fourth Beast, was to be understood the person of any one Emperour. But by such names the Spirit of God would forewarne his chosen of a body and a multitude, having a wicked head, which should not onelyonly be sinfull himself, but also should be occasion of sin, to all that should be subject unto him (as Christ Jesus is the cause of Justice to all the Members of his Body) and is called the Antichrist, that is to say, One contrary to Christ, because that he is contrary to him in Life, Doctrine, Lawes, and Subjects. And there began to decipher the lives of divers Popes, and the lives of all the Shavelings for the most part: Their Doctrine and Lawes, he plainly proved to repugne directly to the Doctrine and Lawes of God the Father, and of p. 77Christ Jesus his Son. This he proved by conferring the Doctrine of Justification expressed in the Scriptures, which teach that man is justified by Faith onelyonly; That the blood of Iesus Christ purgeth us from all our sinnes. And the Doctrine of the Papists,Contra Dei Spiritu… ad G…lat. cap. 2 v…r 17. & 11. which attribute Justification to the works of the Law, yea, to the works of mens inventions, as Pilgrimage▪ Pardons, and other such baggage. That the Papisticall lawes repugned to the Lawes of the Gospel, he proved, by the Lawes made of observation of dayes,Note. abstaining from meats, and from Marriage, which Christ Jesus made free; and the forbidding whereof, Saint Paul calleth the doctrine of devils. In handling the notes of that Beast given in the Text, he willed men to consider if these notes (There shall another rise, unlike to the other, having a mouth speaking great things and blasphemous) could be applyed unto any other, but to the Pope, and his kingdome: For if these (said he) be not great words and blasphemous,The great word… which Ant. christ speaketh. The Head of the Church, most holy, most blessed, that cannot erre; That can make right of wrong, and wrong of right; That of nothing can make somewhat; And that had all verity in the Shrine of his brest; yea, That had power of all, and none power of him. Nay, not to say, That he doth wrong, although he draw ten thousand Millions of souls with himself to hell. If these (said he) and many other, easie to be showne in his own Cannon-Law, be not great and blasphemous words, and such as never mortall men spake before, let the world judge. And yet (said he) is there one most evident of all, to wit, Iohn in his Revelation sayes, That the Merchandise of that Babylonian Harlot, among other things, shall be the bodies and souls of men. Now let very Papists themselves judge, If any before them, took upon them power to relax the pains of them that were in Purgatory, as they affirme to the people that daily they do, by the merits of their Masse, and of their other trifles. In the end he said, If any here (and there were present Master Iohn Maire, Iohn Knox had been disciple in his first yeers to Iohn Maire,the University, the Sub-Prior, and many Cannons, with some Friers of both the Orders) that will say, That I have alleadged Scripture, Doctor, or History, otherwise then it is written, let them come unto me with sufficient witnesse, and by conference I shall let them see, not onelyonly the Originall where my Testimonies are written, but I shall prove, That the Writers meant as I have spoken. Of this Sermon, which was the first that ever Iohn Knox made in publike, was divers brutes: Some said, He not onelyonly hewes the branches of Papistry, but he strikes at the root also, to destroy the whole. Others said, If the Doctors, and Magistri nostri, defend not now the Pope and his Authority, which in their own presence is so manifestly impugned, the devill may have my part of him, and of his Lawes both. Others said, Master George Wischarde spake never so plainly, and yet he was burnt, even so will he be. In the end others said, The Tyranny of the Cardinall made not his cause the better,Note. neither yet the suffering of Gods servant made his cause the worse. And therefore we would counsell you and them to provide better defences then fire and sword; for it may be that else ye will be disappointed; men now have other eyes then they had then. This answer gave the Laird of Nydrie, a man fervent and upright in Religion. The bastard Bishop, who yet was not execrated (consecrated p. 78the Sub-Prior of S. Andrews, who (Sede vacante) was Vicar Generall, That he wondered that he suffered such Hereticall and Schismaticall Doctrine to be taught, and not to oppose himselfe to the same. Upon this rebuke, was a convention of gray-Friers, and black-Fiends appointed, with the said Sub-Prior Deane Iohn Winrame, in S. Leonards Yard, whereunto was first called Iohn Rough, and certain Articles read to him. And thereafter was Iohn Knox called for. The cause of their convention, and why that they were called, is expounded. And the Articles were read, which were these.

1. No mortall man can be the head of the Church.

2. The Pope is an Antichrist, and so is no member of Christs mysticall body.

3. Man may neither make nor devise a Religion that is acceptable to God, but man is bound to observe and keep the Religion that from God is received, without chopping or changing thereof.

4. The Sacraments of the New Testament, ought to be ministred as they were instituted by Christ Iesus, and practised by his Apostles, nothing ought to be added unto them, nothing ought to be diminished from them.

5. The Masse is abominable Idolatry, blasphemous to the death of Christ, and a prophanation of the Lords Supper.

6. There is no Purgatory, in the which the soules of men can either be pined or purged after this life. But heaven resteth to the faithfull, and hell to the reprobate and unfaithfull.

7. Praying for the dead is vain, and to the dead is Idolatry.

8. There is no Bishop, except he Preach even by himselfe, without any Substitute.

9. The Tythes by Gods Law do not appertain of necessity to the Church-men.

The strangenesse (said the Sub-Prior) of these Articles which are gathered forth of your Doctrine have moved us to call for you, to hear your own answers. Iohn Knox said, I for my part praise my God, that I see so honourable, and apparantly so modest and quiet an Auditory: But because it is long since that I have heard, that ye are one that is not ignorant of the Trueth, I may crave of you in the Name of God, yea, and I appeal your conscience, before that supreme Judge; That if ye think any Article there expressed, contrary unto the Truth of God, That ye oppose your self plainely unto it, and suffer not the people to be therewith deceived. But on the other side, if in your conscience ye know the Doctrine to be true, then will I crave your Patrocinie thereto; That by your authority the people may be moved the rather to beleeve the Truth, whereof many doubts, by reason of your thoughts. The Sub-Prior answered, I came not here as a Judge, but onelyonly familiarly to talke, and therefore I will neither allow nor condemne. But if ye list, I will reason.

The Sub-Prior.

Why may not the Church (said he) for good causes devise Ceremonies to decore the Sacraments, and other Gods Service.

Iohn Knox.

Because the Church ought to do nothing, but in Faith, and ought not to go before, but is bound to follow the voice of the true Pastor.

p. 79The Sub-Prior.

It is in Faith that the Ceremonies are commanded, and they have proper significations to help our Faith, as the hards in Baptisme signifie the roughnesse of the Law, and the oyle the softnesse of Gods mercy; and likewise every one of the Ceremonies hath a godly signification, and therefore they both proceed from Faith, and are done in Faith.

Iohn Knox.

It is not enough that man invent a Ceremony, and then give it a signification according to his pleasure. For so might the Ceremonies of the Gentiles, and this day the Ceremonies of Mahomet be maintained. But if that any thing proceed from Faith, it must have the Word of God for its assurance. For ye are not ignorant; That Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. Now if that ye will prove that your Ceremonies proceed from Faith, and do please God, ye must prove that God in expresse words hath commanded them. Or else shall you never prove that they proceed from Faith, nor yet that they please God; but that they are sinne, and do displease him, according to the words of the Apostle, Whatsoever is not of Faith is sinne.

The Sub-Prior.

Will ye binde us so straight, that we may do nothing without the expresse Word of God. What and I ask drink, Think ye that I sinne? and yet I have not Gods Word for me. This answer gave he as might appear to shift over the Argument upon the Frier, as that he did.

Iohn Knox.

I would ye should not jest in so grave a matter, neither would I that ye should begin to hide the Trueth with Sophistrie, and if ye do, I will defend it the best that I can. And first to your drinking, I say, that if ye either eat or drink without assurance of Gods Word, that in so doing ye displease God, and sinne in your very eating and drinking. For saith not the Apostle (speaking even of meat and drink) That the creatures are sanctified unto men, even by word and prayer. The word is this, All things are cleane to the cleane. Now let me hear this much of your Ceremonies, and I shall give you the Argument, but I wonder that they compare things prophane and holy things so indiscreetly together. The Question was not, nor is not of meat or drink, whereinto the Kingdom of God consisteth not. But the Question is of Gods true worshipping, without the which we can have no societie with God. And here it is doubted, if we may take the same freedom in the using of Christs Sacraments, that we may do in eating and drinking. One meat I may eat, another I may refuse, and that without scruple of conscience. I may change one with another, even as oft as I please. Whether may we cast away what we please, and retaine what we please? If I be well remembred, Moses in the Name of God saith to the people of Israel; All that the Lord thy God commandeth thee to do, that do thou to the Lord thy God, adde nothing to it, diminish nothing from it. p. 80By these rules think I that the Church of Christ will measure Gods Religion, and not by that which seems good in their own eyes.

The Sub-Prior.

Forgive me, I spake it but in mowes, and I was dry. And now father (said he, to the Frier) follow the argument, ye have heard what I have said, and what is answered to me againe.

Arbugkill gray-Frier.

I shall prove plainely that Ceremonies are ordained by God.

Iohn Knox.

Such as God hath ordained we allow, and with reverence we use them. But the question is of those that God hath ordained, such as in Baptisme, are spittle, salt, candle, (except it be to keep the barne from the cold) hardes, oyle, and the rest of the Papisticall inventions.

Arbugkill.

I will even prove those that ye damne to be ordained of God.

Iohn Knox.

The Proofe thereof I would gladly hear.

Arbugkill.

Saith not Saint Paul, that another foundation then Jesus Christ, may no man lay. But upon this foundation, Some build gold, silver, and precious stones, some hay, stubble, and wood. The gold, silver, and the precious stones are the Ceremonies of the Church, which do abide the fire, and consumeth not away, &c. This place of Scripture is most plaine, sayeth the foolish fiend.

Iohn Knox.

I praise my God through Jesus Christ, for I finde his promise sure, true, and stable. Christ Jesus bids us not fear when we shall be called before men to give confession of his Trueth, for he promiseth that it shall be given unto us in that houre what we shall speak. If I had sought the whole Scriptures, I could not have produced a place more proper for my purpose, nor more potent to confound you. Now to your Argument. The Ceremonies of the Church (say ye) are gold, silver, and precious stones, because they are able to abide the fire. But I would learne of you, What fire is it which your Ceremonies do abide? And in the mean time, while ye be advised to answer, I will shew my minde, and make an Argument against yours, upon the same Text. And first, I say, that I have heard this Text adduced for a proofe of Purgatory, but for defence of Ceremonies, I never heard nor yet read it. But omitting whether ye understand the minde of the Apostle or not; I make my Argument and say: That which can abide the fire, can abide the Word of God; But your Ceremonies cannot abide the Word of God. Ergo, They cannot abide the p. 81fire. And if they may not abide the fire, then are they not gold, silver, nor precious stones. Now if ye finde any ambiguity in this terme Fire,Note. which I interpret to be the Word, finde ye me another fire, by the which things builded upon Jesus Christ should be tried, then God and his Word, which both in the Scriptures are called fire; and I shall correct mine Argument.

Arbugkill.

I stand not thereupon, but I deny your Minor; to wit, That our Ceremonies may not abide the triall of Gods Word.

Iohn Knox.

I prove, That abides not the triall of Gods Word, which Gods Word. condemnes: But Gods Word condemnes your Ceremonies; Therefore they do not abide the triall thereof.Optima Collatio. But as a thief abides the triall of the Inquest, and thereby is condemned to be hanged, even so may your Ceremonies abide the triall of Gods Word, but not else. And now in few words to make plain that wherein ye may seem to doubt, to wit, that Gods Word damnes your Ceremonies, it is evident: For the plain and strait Commandment is,Deut. 4.Deut 4 Not that thing that appears good in thine eyes shalt thou do to the Lord thy God but what the Lord thy God hath commanded thee, that do thou; adde nothing to it, diminish nothing from it. Now unlesse that ye be able to prove that God hath commanded your Ceremonies, this his former Commandment will damne both you and them.

The Frier somewhat abashed what first to answer, while he wanders about in the mist, he falls in a foule mire. For alleadging that we may not be so bound to the Word,Note. he affirmed, That the Apostles had not received the Holy Ghost when they did write their Epistles, but after they received him, and then they ordained Ceremonies (few would have thought that so learned a man would have given so foolish an answer, & yet it is even as true as he did bear a gray Coull) Iohn Knox, hearing the answer, start, and said, If that be true, I have long been in an errour, and I think I shall die therein. The Sub-Prior said to him, Father, What say ye? God forbid that ye affirme that; for then farewell the ground of our faith. The Frier astonied, made the best shift that he could to correct his fault, but it would not be. Iohn Knox brought him oft again to the ground of the Argument. But he would never answer directly, but ever fled to the authority of the Church: whereto the said Iohn answered ofter then once, That the Spouse of Christ had neither power nor authority against the Word of God. Then said the Frier, If so be, ye will leave us no Church. Indeed, said the other, in David I reade that there is a Church of the Malignants; Psal. 26.5.Ps 26:5for he saith, Odi Ecclesiam malignantium: That Church ye may have without the Word, and doing many things directly fighting against the Word of God. Of that Church, if ye will be, I cannot hinder you. But as for me, I will be of none other Church, except of that which hath Iesus Christ to be Pastour, which hears his voice, and will not heare a stranger. In this Disputation many other things were merrily skoft over: For the Frier after his fall could speak nothing to any purpose. For Purgatorie, he had no better proofe but the p. 82authority of Virgil, in the sixth of his Aeneiads; and the paines thereof to him was an Evil wife. Iohn Knox answered that, and many other things as he himself witnesseth,Frier Arbucki…ls proofe of Purgatory. in a Treatise that he did write in the Gallies, containing the sum of his Doctrine, and the confession of his Faith, and sent it to his familiars in Scotland, with his exhortation, That they should continue in the Truth, which they had professed, notwithstanding any worldly adversity that might ensue thereof.The cause of the inserting of this Disputation. Thus much of that disputation have we inserted here, to the intent that men may see how Satan ever travelleth to obscure the Light, and how God by his power working in his weak vessels, confounds the craft, and discloseth the darknesse of Satan.

After this the Papists and Friers, had no great heart of further disputation or reasoning, but invented another shift, which appeared to proceed from godlinesse,The practises of Papists, that their wickednesse should not be disclosed. and it was this: Every learned man in the Abbey, and in the Universitie should Preach in the Parish Church his Sunday about. The Sub-Prior began, followed the Officiall, called Spittall (Sermons was penned) to offend no man, followed all the rest in their ranks. And so Iohn Knox smelled out the craft, and in his Sermons which he made upon the Weeke-dayes, he prayed to God, that they should be as busie in Preaching, when there should be more want of it, then there was then.The protestation of Iohn Knox. Alwayes (said he) I praise God that Christ Jesus is Preached, and nothing is said publikely against the Doctrine that ye have heard. If in my absence they shall speak any thing which in my presence they do not; I protest that ye suspend your judgement, till that it please God ye hear me againe.

God so assisted his weak Souldier, and so blessed his labours, that not onelyonly all these of the Castle, but also a great number of the Town openly professed by participation of the Lords Table, in the same purity, that now it is ministred in the Churches of Scotland, with that same Doctrine that he had taught unto them.M. Iames Balfoure once joyned with the Church, and did professe all Doctrine, taught by Iohn Knox. Amongst whom was he that now either rules, or else misrules Scotland, to wit, Sir Iames Balfour (sometimes called M. Iames) the chiefe and principall Protestant, that then was to be found within this Realm. This we write because that we have heard, that the said Master Iames alleadgeth, that he was never of this our Religion, but that he was brought up in Martin Luthers opinion of the Sacrament, and therefore he cannot communicate with us. But his own conscience, and two hundred witnesses besides, know that he lies, and that he was one of the chief (if he had not been after his cups) that would have given his life, if men might credit his words, for defence of the doctrine, that the said Iohn Knox taught. But albeit that those that never were of us (as none of Monquhauneys house have shewed themselves to be) depart from us, it is no great wonder.Filius sequitur patris iter. For it is proper and naturall, that the children follow the father, and let the godly beware of that race and progenie, by eschewing it. For if in them be either fear of God, or love of vertue, further then the present commoditie perswades them, men of judgement are deceived. But to return to our History.The rage of the marked beasts at the Preaching of the Truth. The Priests and Bishops enraged at all these proceedings that were in Saint Andrews, ran now upon the Governour, now upon the Queene, now upon the whole Counsell, and there might have been heard complaints and cryes▪ What are we doing? Shall p. 83we suffer this whole Realme to be infected with pernicious Doctrine; fie upon you, and fie upon us. The Queen, and Monsieur d'Osell (who then was a secretis mulierum in the Court) comforted them,The first coming of Galleys▪ Anno 1547. And the second Siege of the Castle The treasonable act of the Governour, and Queen Dowager. and willed them to be quiet, for they should see remedy or it were long. And so it proved indeed: For upon the nine and twentieth day of Iune, appeared in the sight of the Castle of Saint Andrewes, one and twenty French Galleys with a great Army, the like whereof was never seen in that Haven before. This treasonable means had the Governour, the Bishop, the Queen, and Monsieur d'Osell, under their appointment drawne. But to excuse their Treason, eight dayes before, they had presented an Absolution unto them, as sent from Rome, containing, after the aggravation of the crime, this clause, remittimꝰ irremissibile, Note.that is,The answer given to the Governour, when the Castle of S. Andrews was required to be delivered. We remit the crime that cannot be remitted: Which considered by the worst of the company that was in the Castle, answer was given, That the Governour and Councell of the Realme had promised unto them a sufficient and assured absolution, which that appeareth not to be, and therefore they could not deliver the House, neither thought they that any reasonable man would require them so to do, considering that promise was not kept unto them. The next day after that the Gallies were arrived, they summoned the House: Which being denied (because they knew then no Magistrates in Scotland) they prepared for Siege; and first they began to assault by Sea, and shot two days; but thereof they neither got advantage nor honour, for they threw down the Slates of houses; but neither slue man, nor did harme to any wall. But the Castle handled them so,The Gunners goddesse. that Sancta Barbara (the Gunners goddesse) helped them nothing, for they lost many of their Rowers, men chained in the Gallies, and some Souldiers both by Sea and Land. And farther, a Galley that approached neerer then the rest, was so beaten with the Cannon, and other Ordinance, that she was striken under water, and almost drowned, and so she had been, had not the rest given her succour in time, and drawn her to the west Sands, without the sho… of the Castle, and afterward to Dundie; where they remained, till that the Governour, who then was at the Siege of Langhope, came unto them with the rest of the French Faction. The Siege by Sea and Land was laid about the Castle of S. Andrews the three and twentieth day of Iuly: The Trenches were cast, Ordnance was planted upon the Abbey Church, and upon Saint Salvators Colledge (and yet was the Steeple thereof burnt) and some upon the street that leads to the Castle,Commonly called, The old Colledge. which so annoyed the Castle, that neither could they keep their Block-house, the Sea Tower head, nor the west wall; for in all those places men were slain by great Ordnance: yea, they mounted the Ordnance so high upon the Abbey Church, that they might discover the ground of the court of the Castle in divers places. Moreover, within the Castle was the plague (and divers therein died) which more affrayed some that were therein, then did the externall force without. But Io. Knox was of another judgement; for he ever said, That their corrupt life, having fallen into all kinde of licentiousnesse,The sentence of Iohn Knox …o the Castle of S. Andrews b…fore it was won. puft up with pride of their successe, and relying upon England for help in case of need, could not escape the punishment of God; and that was his continuall advertisement, from the time that he was called to Preach. When they triumphed p. 84of their Victory (the first twenty dayes they had many prosperous chances) he lamented, and ever said, They saw not what he saw: when they bragged of the force and thicknesse of their walls,Note. he said they should be but egge-shells. When they vaunted, England will rescue us, he said, Ye shall not see them; but ye shall be delivered into your enemies hands, and shall be carried into a strange Countrey.

Upon the nine and twentieth of Iuly at night, was the Ordnance planted for the Battery thirteen Cannons, whereof four were Cannons Royall,King Henry of England being dead. called double Cannons, besides other Pieces. The Battery began at four of the clock in the morning; and before ten hours of the day, the whole South quarter, betwixt the fore Tower, and the East Blockhouse, was made faltable. The lower Gallery was stopped, divers slain in it; and the East Block-house was shot off from the place. Betwixt ten of the clock and eleven, there fell a shower of rain, that continued neer an hour, the like whereof had seldome been seen; it was so vehement, that no man might abide without a house. The Cannons were left alone.Prior of Cappua Leon St…ozi. Some within the Castle were of judgement, that men should have issued, and put all in the hands of God. But because that William Kirkcaldie was coming with the Prior of Cappua, who had the Commission of that Journey from the King of France, nothing was enterprised. And so appointment made, and the Castle rendered, upon Saturday the last of Iuly. The Heads of the Appointment were; That the lives of all within the Castle should be saved, as well English as Scots, that they should be safely transported to France. And in case that upon conditions which by the King of France should offered unto them,The Castle of S. Andrews refused in greatest extremity to treat with the Governor, fearing the cruelty of his weak nature, in revenging the death of his Cousin the Cardinall. they could not be content to remaine in service and freedome there, they should upon the King of France his expences be safely conveyed to what Countrey they would, other then Scotland. With the Governour they would have nothing ado, neither with any Scottish-man, for they had all trayterously betrayed them (which, said the Laird of Grange elder, a man simple, and of most stout courage, I am assured God shall revenge it or it be long.) The Galleys well furnished with the spoile of the Castle aforesaid, after certain dayes returned to France, and escaped a great danger (for upon the back of the Sands they all chocked) they arrived at Felcam in November, and thereafter passed up the water of Sequane, and lay before Roan, where the principall Gentlemen who looked for freedome, were dispersed, and put in sundry prisons; the rest were left in the Galleyes, and there miserably use. Amongst whom, the foresaid Master Iames Balfour was, with his two brethren, David and Gilbert; which we write, because that we heare that the said Master Iames, principall misguider now of Scotland, denies that he had any thing to do with the Castle of Saint Andrewes, or yet that ever he was in the Galleys: among others, Iohn Knox was in the Galleys all the Winter. Then was the joy of the Papists, both of Scotland and of France, even in full perfection; for this was their song of triumph:

Priests content you now, Priests content you now,

For Norman and his company have fill'd the Gallies fow.

The Pope wrote Letters to the King of France, and so did he to the p. 85Governour of Scotland, thanking him heartily for taking pains to revenge the death of his kinde creature the Cardinall of Scotland, desiring them to continue in their begun severity, that such things thereafter should not be attempted. So were all those that were deprehended in the Castle, condemned to perpetuall prison: And the ungodly judged, That after this, Christ Jesus should never triumph in Scotland. On thing we cannot passe by: From Scotland was sent a famous Clerke (laugh not Reader) M. Iohn Hammilton of Milburne, with credit to the King of France, and unto the Cardinall of Loraine (and yet he had neither French nor Latine, and some say his Scotish tongue was not very good.) The sum of his Negotiation was, That those of the Castle should be sharply handled: In the which Suit he was heard with favour, and was dispatched from the Court of France with Letters, and great credit, which that famous Clerke forgate by the way. For passing up to the Mountaine of Dumbartane, before his letters were delivered, he brake his neck, and so God took away a proud ignorant enemy. But now to our History. These things against promise (for Princes have no Fidelity further then for their owne advantage) done at Roan, Nulla fides Rogni Socii, &c.the Galleys departed to Nantes in Britanie. Where, upon the water of Lore, they lay the whole Winter. In Scotland that Summer was nothing but mirth, for all went with the Priests even at their own pleasure. The Castle of S. Andrewes was razed to the ground; the Block-house thereof cast downe, and the walls round about demolished. Whether this was to fulfill their law, which commands that places where Cardinals are slain, so to be used; or else for fear that England should have taken it, as after they did Brouchtie Rock, we remit to the judgement of such as were of counsell.

This same yeer, in the beginning of September, entereth Scotland an Army of ten thousand men from England by Land,Pinckey Cl…ch. and some Ships with Ordnance come by Sea. The Governour and the Bishop hereof advertised, gathered together the Forces of Scotland, and assembled at Edinburgh. Duke of Sommerset.The Protector of England, with the Earle of Warwicke and their Army, remained at Praeston, and about Praeston Panes; for they had certaine Offers to propose unto the Nobility of Scotland, concerning the promise before made by them, unto the which King Henry before his death gently required them to stand fast: And if they would so do, of him nor of his Realme they should have no trouble, but the helpe and the comfort that he could make them in all things lawfull. And hereupon there was a Letter directed to the Governour and Councell; which coming to the hands of the Bishop of Saint Andrewes, he thought it could not be for his advantage that it should be divulgate; and therefore by his craft it was suppressed. Upon the Friday the seventh of September, the English Army marched towards Leith, and the Scotish Army marched from Edinburgh to Ennernes. The whole Scotish Army was not assembled, and yet the skirmishing began; for nothing was concluded but Victory,The security of the Scotishmen at Pinckey Clewch. without stroke. The Protector, the Earle of Warwicke, the Lord Gray, and all the English Captaines were playing at the Dice. No men were stouter then the Priests and Channons with their shaven p. 86crowns, and black Jacks. The Earl of Warwick, and the Lord Gray, who had the chief charge of Horse-men, perceiving the Host to be molested with the Scotish Preachers, and knowing that the multitude were neither under order nor obedience (for they were divided from the great Army) sent forth certain Troops of Horse-men, and some of their Borderers, either to fetch them, or else to put them out of their sight, so that they might not annoy the Host.Fridays chase. The Skirmish grew hot, and at length the Scotish-men gave back, and fled without gain turne: The chase continued far, both towards the East, and towards the West; in the which many were slain, and he that now is Lord Home, was taken, which was the occasion that the Castle of Home was after surrendered to the English men. The losse of these men neither moved the Governour, nor yet the Bishop his bastard brother, bragging, That they would revenge the matter well enough upon the morrow; for they had hands enow (no word of God) the English hereticks had no faces, Brags.they would not abide. Upon the Saturday the Armies of both sides past to Array. The English Army takes the middle part of Fawside hill, having their Ordnance planted before them, and having their Ships and two Galleys brought as neer the Land, as water would serve. The Scotish Army stood first in a reasonable strength, and good order, having betwixt them and the English Army the water of Esk (otherwise called Mussylburgh water) But at length a charge was given, in the Governours behalf, with sound of Trumpet, That all men should march forward, and go over the water. Some say that this was procured by the Abbot of Dunfermeling, and Master Hew Rig, for preservation of Carbarrie. Men of judgement liked not the journey; for they thought it no wisedom to leave their strength. But commandment upon commandment, and charge upon charge was given, which urged them so, that unwillingly they obeyed. The Earle of Angus being in the Vant-guard, had in his company the Gentlemen of Fyfe, of Angus, Mearnes, and the Westland, with many others, that of love resorted unto him; and especially those that were professors of the Gospel, for they supposed that England would not have made great pursuit of him. He passed first thorow the water, and arrayed his Host, direct before the enemies: Followed the Earle of Huntley, with his Northland men: Last come the Governour, having in his company the Earle of Argyle, with his own friends; and the Body of the Realme. The English-men perceiving the danger; and how that the Scotish-men intended to have taken the top of the hill, made to prevent the perill. The Lord Gray was commanded to give the charge with his men at Armes, which he did, albeit the hazard was very unlikely. For the Earle of Angus Host stood even as a wall, and received the first assaulters, upon the points of their Spears (which were longer then those of the English-men) so rudely,The repulse of the Horse-men of England. that fifty Horse and men of the first rank lay dead at once, without any hurt done to the Scottish Armie, except that the Spears of the former two Ranks were broken. Which Discomfiture received, the rest of the Horse-men fled, yea, some passed beyond Fawside Hill; the Lord Gray himselfe was hurt in the mouth, and plainly denied to chage againe; for he said, It was alike to run against a Wall. The Galleyes and p. 87the ships, and so did the ordnance, planted upon Myde-hill shoot terribly. But the ordnance of the Gallies shooting amongst the Scottish Army affraied them wonderously. And while that every man laboured to draw from the North, from whence the danger appeared, they begin to faile, and with that were the English foot-men marching forward: Albeit that some of their horse-men were upon the flight. The Earle of Angus army stood still, looking that either Huntly or the Governour should have recountred the next battell. But they had decreed that the favourers of England, and the Hereticks (as the priests called them) and the Englishmen should part it betwixt them for that day. The feare riseth, and at an instant, they which before were victors, and were not yet assaulted with any force (except with ordnance, as is said) cast from them their spears and fled: So that Gods power was so evidently seen, that in one moment, yea at one instant time, both the armies were fleeing. The shout came from the hill, from those that hoped no victory upon the English part. The shout rises (we say) They flee, they flee, but at the first it could not be beleeved, till at the last, it was clearly seene, that all had given back, and still began the cruell slaughter (which was the greater, by reason of the late displeasure of the men of arms) the chase and slaughter lasted till neer Edinburgh upon the one part, and toward Dalketh upon the other. The number of the slain upon the Scottish side, were judged nigh ten thousand men. The Earle of Huntly was taken and carried to London: But he relieved himselfe, being surety for many reasons, Honesty or unhonesty, we know not, but as the bruite was, he used policie with England. In that same time was slain the Master of Erskin, dearly beloved of the Queene: for whom she made great lamentation, and bare his death many dayes in minde. When the certaintie of the discomfiture came, she was in Edinburgh, abiding upon tidings. But with expedition she posted that same night to Sterlin with Monsieur Dosell, Note.who was as fearfull as a Fox when his hole is smoaked. And thus did God take the second revenge upon the perjured Governour, with such as assisted him to defend an unjust quarrell. Albeit that many innocents fell amongst the middest of the wicked. The English armie came to Leyth, and their taking order with their prisoners and spoile, they returned with this victory (which they looked not for) to England. That Winter following was great hearships made upon all the borders of Scotland, Broughtie mountain was taken by the Englishmen, and besieged by the Governor,Note. but still kept: And at it was slain Gawine, the best of the Hamiltons, and the ordnance left. Whereupon the Englishmen encouraged, began to fortifie upon the hill above Broughty house, which was called, The fort of Broughty, and was very noisome to Dundie, which it burnt and laid waste, and so did it the most part of Angus, which was not assured, and under friendship with them.

The Lent following was Hadington fortified by the English men: The most part of Lothian, from Edinburgh East, was either assured or laid waste.Note. This did God plague in every quarter. But men were blinde, and would not, nor could not consider the cause. The Lairdes Ormeston and Brunstone, were banished, and after sore assaulted, and so were all those of the Castle of S. Andrews. The sure knowledge of the troubles of Scotland p. 88coming to France, there was prepared a Navie and Army. The Navie was such as never was seen to come from France for the support of Scotland, for besides the Gallies, being twenty two in number, they had threescore great Ships, besides Victuallers. How soon so ever they took the plain seas, the red Lion of Scotland was displayed, and they holden as rebels unto France (such policie is no falshood in Princes) for good peace stood betwixt France and England. Note.And the King of France approved nothing that they did. The chiefe men to whom the conducting of the Army was appointed, were Monsieur Dandelott, Monsieur de Termes, and Peter Strozi. In their journey they made some harship upon the coast of England, but it was not great. They arrived in Scotland in May, in the yeere of our Lord 1549.1549. The Gallies did visit the Fort of Broughtie, but did no more at that time. Preparations were made for the siege of Hadington, but it was another thing, that they meant, as the issue declared. The whole body of the Realm assembled,The Parliament at Hadington. the form of a Parliament was set to be holden there, to wit, in the Abbey of Hadington. The principall head was, the Marriage of the Princesse (by the State before contracted to King Edward) to the King of France, and of her present deliverie, by reason of the danger she stood in, by the invasion of the old enemies of England. Some were corrupted with buds, some deceived by flattering promise, and some for fear were compelled to consent; for the French Souldiers were the officers of Arms in that Parliament.Note. The Laird of Balcleuch, a bloody man, with many Gods-wounds, swore, They that would not consent, should do worse. The Governour got the Title of Duke of Chattelherauld, with the order of the Cockle, and a Pension of 12000. lib. turn. with a full discharge of all intermissions, with King Iames the fift his treasure and substance whatsoever, with possession of the Castle of Dumbartane, till that issue should be seen of the Queenes body. With these and other conditions stood he content to sell his Soveraigne out of his own hands,The Dukes fact and what appeareth to follow thereof. which in the end will be his destruction. God thereby punishing his former wickednesse (if speedie repentance prevent not Gods judgements, which we heartily wish) Huntly, Argyle, and Angus, were likewise made Knights of the Cockle; and for that and other good deeds received,Experience hath taught, and further will declare. they sold also their part. Shortly none was found to resist that unjust demand. And so was she sold to go to France; To the end, that in her youth, she should drink of that liquor that should remain with her all her life time for a plague to this Realm, and for her own ruine. And therefore albeit that now a fire cometh out of her, that consumes many, let no man wonder she is Gods hand, in his displeasure punishing our former ingratitude. Let men patiently abide Gods appointed time, and turn unto him with hearty repentance, then God will surely stop the fire that now comes from her, by sudden changing her heart to deal favourably with his people; or else by taking her away, or by stopping her to go on in her cou…se by such meanes as he shall think meet in his wisdom, for he having all in his hand disposeth of all, and doth with all according to his own will, unto which we must not onelyonly yeeld, but also be heartily pleased with it, since it is absolutely good, and both by Sacred and Prophane History we are taught to do so; for in them we finde, That Princes have p. 89been raised up by his hands to punish his people; But when they turned unto him with hearty repentance, he either turned the heart of the Prince to deal kindly with his people, or else did take him away, or at least did stop his violent course against his people. Of this, the examples are so frequent, that we spare to name them heere. But to returne to our Historie.

This conclusion, That our Queene (without further delay) should be delivered to France. The siege of Hadington.The siege continued, great shooting, but no assaulting, and yet they had fair occasion offered unto them. For the English-men approaching to the Town, for the comforting of the besieged, with powder, victuals,Tuesdayes chase. and men, lost an Army of six thousand men. Sir Robert Bowes was taken, and the most part of the borderers were taken or slain. And so might the Town justly have despaired of any further succour to have been looked for. But yet it held good for the stout courage and prudent government of Sir Iames Wolford General, who did so incourage the whole Captains and Souldiers, that they determined to die upon their walls. But from the time that the French-men had gotten the Bone, for the which the Dog barked, the pursuit of the Town was slow. The siege was raised, and the Queen she was conveyed by the west seas to France, with 4 Gallies & some Ships. And so the Cardinall of Loraine got her in his keeping, a morsell I assure you, meet for his own mouth. We omit many things that occurred in this time, as the sitting down of the Ship, called, The Cardinall (the fairest Ship in France) betwixt S. Colmes Inch and Cramond, without any occasion except negligence, for the day was faire and weather calme. But God would shew,Note. that the Countrey of Scotland can beare no Cardinals. In this time also was there a Combat betwixt the Gallies and the English Ships. They shot frankely a while. An English Ship took fire, or else the Gallies had come short home, and as it was, they fled without mercy, till that they were above S. Colmes Inch. The Captaines left the Gallies, and took a Fort, made in the Inch, for their defence. But the English Ships made no pursuit (except that they burnt the Cardinall, where she lay) and so the Gallies and the Galley-men did both escape.

Order was taken that the next September some Gallies should remain in Scotland, and that the rest should return to France, as they did all, except one that was taken by an English Ship, (by an English Ship, onelyonly we say) as they were passing betwixt Dover and Calice.

That winter remained Monsieur de Arfe in Scotland, with the bands of French-men. They fortified Enneresk, to stay the English that they should not invade Edinburgh and Leyth. Some skirmishes there were betwixt the one and the other, but no notable thing done, except that the French had almost taken Hadington; The occasion whereof was this:

The French-men thinking themselves more then masters in all parts of Scotland, and in Edinburgh principally, thought they could doe no wrong to no Scottish-man. For a certaine French-man delivered a Colvering to George Tod, Scottish-man, to be stocked, who bringing it thorow the street, another French-man claimed it, and would have taken it from the said George, but he resisted, alleadging that the p. 90French-man did wrong: Thus began parties to assemble, as well to the Scottish-man as to the French, so that two of the French-men were stricken down, and the rest chased from the Crosse to Nudris-winde-head. The Provost being in the street, apprehended two of the French, and was carrying them to the Tolbuith, but from Monsieur de Essies lodging, or close, issued forth French-men, to the number of threescore persons, with drawn swords, and resisted the said Provost. Then the Town assembling, repulsed them, till that they came to the nether Bow. And there Monsieur de la Chapelle, with the whole bands of French-men armed recountred the said Provost,The slaughter of the Captain of the Castle of Edinburgh. and violently repulsed him (for the Town was without weapons, for the most part) and so made invasion upon all that they met. And first in the entrie of the Bow were slain David Kyrk, and David Barber (being at the Provosts back) and afterward was slain the said Provost himself, being Laird of Stanehouse, and Captain of the Castle, Iames Hamilton his son, William Chapman, M. William Stuart, William Purvesse, and a woman named Elizabeth Stuart. And thereafter tarried within the Town by force, from five of the clock till after seven at night, and then retired to the Cannon gate, as to their receptacle and refuge.

The whole Town, yea the Governour and Nobility commoved at the unworthinesse of this bold attempt, craved justice upon the malefactours, or else they would take justice of the whole. The Queen craftily enough, Monsieur de Essie, and Monsieur Doseil, laboured for pacification, and promised, That unlesse the French-men by themselves alone, should do such an act as might recompence the wrong that they had done, that then they should not refuse, but that Justice should be executed to the rigour. These faire words pleased our fools, and so were the French bands the next night directed to Hadington, to the which they approched a little after midnight so secretly, that they were never espied till that the foremost were within the outer Court, and the whole Company in the Church-yard, not two paire of Buts length distant from the Town. The Souldiers English-men were all asleep except the watch, the which was slender; and yet the shout arises, Bowes and Bils, Hadington almost surprised by the French.Bowes and Bils; which is signification of extreme defence, to avoide the present danger in all Towns of war. They affrighted arise, weapons that first came to hand serve for the need. One amongst many came to the East-gate, where lay two great peeces of Ordnance, and where the enemies were known to be, and cried to his fellows, that were at the gate making defence. Beware before, and so fires a great peece, and thereafter another, which God so conducted, that after them was no further pursuit made: for the Bullets redounded from the wall of the Frier-Church, to the wall of S. Katherines Chappell, which stood directly over it, and from the wall of the said Chappell to the said Church wall again, so oft, that there fell more then an hundred of the French at those two shots onelyonly. They shot oft; but the French retired with diligence, and returned to Edinburgh without harme done, except the destruction of some drinking Beere, which lay in the Sands, Chappell, and Church. And this was satisfaction more then enough, for the slaughter of the foresaid captain, and Provost, and for the slaughter of such as were slain with them. This was the beginning of the French fruits.

p. 91This winter, in the time of Christmas, was the Castle of Hume recovered from the English, by the negligence of the Captain, named Dudley. This winter also did the Laird of Raith most innocently suffer,The recovery of the Castle of Home. and after was forsalted, because that he wrote a Letter to his son Iohn Melvin, who then was in England, which was alleadged to have been found in the house of Ormeston;The death of the Laird of Raith. but many suspected the pranks and craft of Ninian Cokburne, now called Captain Ninian, to whom the said Letter was delivered. But howsoever it was, the cruell beast the Bishop of S. Andrews, and the Abbot of Dunfermeling, ceased not, till that the head of that noble man was striken from him; especially, because that he was known to be one that unfainedly favoured the Truth of Gods Word, and was a great friend to those that were in the Castle of S. Andrews, of whose deliverance, and of Gods wonderfull working with them during the time of their bondage, we will now speak, lest that in suppressing of so notable a work of God, we should justly be accused of ingratitude. First then, the principalls being put in severall houses,The entertainment of those of the Castle of S. Andrews, during their Captivity. as before we have said, great labours were made to make them have a good opinion of the Masse: But chiefly, travell was taken upon Norman Leslie, the Laird of Grange, the Laird of Pitmillie, who were in the Castle of Scherisburgh, that they would come to Masse with the Captain: Who answered, That the Captain had commandment to keep their bodies, but he had no power to command their consciences. Note.The Captain replyed, That he had power to command, and to compel them to go where he went. They answered, That to go to any lawfull place with him, they would not refuse: But to do any thing that was against their conscience, they would not, neither for him, nor yet for the King. The Captain said, Will ye not go to the Masse? They answered, No; and if ye compell us, yet we will displease you farther; for we will use our selves there, that all those that are present shall know we despise it. These same answers (and somewhat sharper) William Kirkcaldie, Peter Carmichell, and such as were with them in Mount S. Michell, gave to their Captaine; for they said, They would not onelyonly heare Masse every day, but that they would help to say it, providing that they might sticke the Priests, or else they would not. M. Henry Balnaves, who was in the Castle of Roan, was most sharply assaulted of all; for because he was judged learned (as he was and is indeed) therefore learned men were appointed to travell with him; with whom he had many conflicts, but God so ever assisted him, that they departed confounded, and he by the power of Gods Spirit remained constant in the Truth, and professing of the same, without any wavering, or declining to Idolatry. In the prison he wrote a comfortable Treatise of Justification,Note. and of the works and conversation of a man justified; which is extant to this day. Those that were in the Gallies, were threatned with torments, if they would not give reverence to the Masse (for at certain times the Masse was said in the Gallies, or else hard by upon the shore, in presence of the Forsaris) but they could never make the poorest of that company to give reverence to that Idoll: yea, when upon the Saturday at night they sung their Salve Regina, Note.all the Scotish men put on their caps,This book was printed 1584. at Edinburgh, by Tho. Vtro…. their hoods, or such things as they had to cover their heads; & when that others were compelled to kisse a painted boord (which they called nostre Dame) they were not pressed after once; for this was the p. 92chance. Soon after their arrivall at Nantes, their great salve was song, and a glorious painted Lady was brought in to be kissed, and amongst others was presented to one of the Scotish men then chained.A merry fact. He gently said, Trouble me not; such a jewell is accursed, and therefore I will not touch it. The Patron and the Arguiser, with two Officers, having the chief charge of all such matters, said, Thou shalt handle it: and so they violently thrust to his face,Note. and put it betwixt his hands. Who seeing the extremity, took the Idoll, and advisedly looking about him, he cast it into the River, and said, Let our Lady now save her selfe; she is light enough, let her learne to swim. After that was no Scotish man urged with that Idolatry. These are things that appear to be of no great importance; and yet if we do rightly consider, they expresse the same obedience that God requireth of his people Israel, Jerem. 10.Jer 10when they should be carried to Babylon: for he gave charge unto them, When they should see the Babylonians worship their gods of gold, silver, metall, and wood, they should say, The gods that have not made heaven and earth, shall perish from the heaven, and out of the earth. That confession gave that whole number, during the time of their bondage, in the which would God they had continued in their freedome; for then had not M. Iames Balfour been Official, neither yet born a Cope for the pleasure of the Bishop.Note. But to proceed: The said M. Iames Balfour being in the Galley with Iohn Knox; and being wonderous familiar with him, would oftentimes ask his judgement, If he thought that ever they should be delivered? Whose answer was ever, from the day that they entred into the Gallies, That God would deliver them from that bondage, to his glory, even in this life. And lying betwixt Dundie and S. Andrews, the second time that the Gallies returned to Scotland, the said Iohn Knox being so extremely sick, that few hoped his life, the said Master Iames willed him to look to the Land,Quamvis multa sunt justorum mala &c. and asked if he knew it? who answered, Yes, I know it well, for I see the Steeple of that place, where God in publike opened my mouth to his glory: And I am fully perswaded, Note diligently the Prophesie.how weake soever that I now appeare, that I shall not depart this life, till that my tongue shall glorifie his holy Name in the same place. This reported the said M. Iames, in the presence of many famous witnesses, many yeers before that ever the foresaid Iohn set his feet in Scotland this last time to Preach.

Iohn Knox his answer and counsell to the captives.William Kirkcaldie, then of Grange younger, Peter Carmichell, Robert and William Leslies, who were altogether in Mount S. Michell, wrote to Iohn Knox, asking counsell if they might with safe conscience break their prison? Whose answer was, That if without the blood of any shed or spilt by them for their deliverance, they might set themselves at freedome, that they might safely do it: But to shed any mans blood for their freedom, thereto would he never consent. Adding further, That he was assured that God would deliver them, and the rest of that company, even in the eyes of the world, but not by such means as they looked for. That was by the force of friends, or by their other labours. By such means he affirmed, they should not be delivered, but that God would so work in in the deliverance of them, that the praise thereof should redound to his glory onelyonly. He willeth therefore every one to take the occasion that God offered unto them. Providing that they did nothing against Gods expresse Commandment for deliverance p. 93of themselves. He was the more earnest in giving his counsell, because the old Laird of Grange and others repugned to their purpose; fearing lest that the escaping of the others, should be an occasion of their worse entreatment. Whereunto the said Iohn answered, That such feare proceeded not from Gods Spirit, but only from a blinde love of thy self, and therefore that no good purpose was to be stayed, for things that were in the hands and power of God. And added, That in one instant, God delivered the whole company into the hands of unfaithfull men, but so would he not relieve them: But some would he deliver by one means, and at one time, and others must abide for a season upon his good pleasure. This counsell in the end was embraced,Le jour de Roys au soir quand els erient le Roy boit. The escaping of William Kirkcaldie and of his fellows forth of Mount Saint Michell. upon the Kings even, when French men commonly use to drinke liberally. The aforesaid four persons having the help and conducting of a boy of the house, bound all that were in the Castle, put them in sundry houses, locked the doors upon them, took the Keys from the Captain, and departed without harm done to the person of any, or without touching of any thing that appertained to the King, Captain, or the house.

Great search was made thorow the whole Countrey for them. But it was Gods good pleasure so to conduct them, that they escaped the hands of the faithlesse, albeit it was with long travell, and great pain and poverty sustained; for the French boy left them, and took with him the small money that they had: And so neither having money, nor knowledge of the Countrey. And farther, fearing that the boy should discover them (as that in very deed he did) they purposed to divide themselves, to change their garments, and to go in sundry parts. The two brethren, Will. and Rob. Leslie (who now are become,Note. the said Robert especially, enemies to Christ Jesus, and unto all vertue) came to Roan; Will. Kirkcaldie, and Peter Carmichell, in beggars garment came to Conquet; and by the space of 12 or 13 weeks they travelled as poor Mariners, from Port to Port, till at length they gat a French Ship, landed in the West of Scotland, and from thence came to England, where they met before them the said Io. Knox, who that same Winter was delivered, and Alexander Clerk in his company. The said Iohn was first appointed Preacher to Barwick, then to Newcastle, last he was called to London, and to the South part of England, where he remained till the death of King Edward the sixt. When he left England, he then passed to Geneva, and there remained at his privy studie, till that he was called by the Congregation that then was assembled at Franckford, to be Preacher to them: which Vocation he obeyed (albeit unwillingly) at the commandment of that notable servant of God, Iohn Calvin: At Franckford he remained, till that some of the learned (whose names we suppresse) more given to unprofitable Ceremonies, then to sincerity of Religion began to quarrell with the said Iohn; and because they despaired to prevail before the Magistrate there,To shew what is contained in this Admonition, we have caused it to be printed at the end of this History. for the establishing of their corruptions, they accused him of treason committed against the Emperour, and against their Soveraigne Queen Mary; That in his Admonition to England he called the one little inferiour to Nero, and the other more cruell then Iesabell; The Magistrate perceiving their malice, and fearing that the said Iohn should fall in the hands of his accusators, by one mean or by other gave p. 94advertisement secretly to him to depart their City, for they could not save him, if he were required by the Emperour, or by the Queen of England in the Emperours name. And so the said Iohn returned to Geneva, from thence to Diep, and thereafter to Scotland, as we shall after hear.

The time and that Winter that the Gallies remained in Scotland, were delivered M. Iames Balfour his two brethren, David and Gilbert, Iohn Anchinlek, Iohn Sibald, Iohn Gray, William Gutrie, and Stevin Bell. The Gentlemen that remained in prisons, were by the procurement of the Queen Dowager to the Cardinall of Loraine, and to the King of France, set at liberty in the month of Iuly, 1550anno 1550. who shortly thereafter were called to Scotland, their peace proclaimed, and they themselves restored to their lands, in despight of their enemies. And that was done in hatred of Duke Hamilton, because that then France began to have the Regiment of Scotland in their own hands.Note. Howsoever it was, God made the hearts of their enemies to set them at liberty and freedom. There rested a number of common servants yet in the Gallies, who were all delivered upon the Contract of peace that was made betwixt France and England, after the taking of Bullen; and so was the whole company set at liberty, none perishing (no not before the world) except Iames Melvin, who departed from the misery of this life in the Castle of Brest in Britaigne. This we write, to let the posteritie to come to understand how potently God wrought in preserving and delivering of those that had but a small knowledge of his truth, and for the love of the same hazarded all. That if either we now in our dayes having greater light,Note diligently. or our posteritie that shall follow us, shall see a fearfull dispersion of such as oppose themselves to impiety, or take upon them to punish the same otherwise then laws of men will permit: If we, say we, or they, shall see such left of men, yea, as it were despised and punished of God, yet let us not damne the persons, that punish vice (and that for just cause) nor yet despair but that the same God that dejects (for causes unknown to us) will raise up again the persons dejected to his glory & their comfort. And to let the world understand in plain terms what we mean,The slaughter of that villain Davie. that great abuser of this Common-wealth, that pultron, and vile knave Davie, was justly punished the ninth of March, in the yeer of our Lord 1565. for abusing of the Common-wealth, and for his other villanies, which we lift not to expresse, by the counsell and hands of Iames Dowglas Earl of Mortoun, Patrick Lord Lindsay, and the Lord Ruthwen, with other assisters in the company, who all for their just act, and most worthy of all praise, are now unworthily left of all their brethren, and suffer the bitternes of banishment & exile But this is our hope in the mercies of our God, That this same blinde Generation whether it will or not, shall be compelled to see, That he will have respect to them that are injustly pursued, That he will pardon their former offences, That he will restore them to the liberty of their Country and Common-wealth again; And that he will punish (in despight of man) the head and the taile, that now troubles the just, and maintaineth impiety. The head is known, the tail hath two branches.The rulers of Mary, anno …566. and their prediction. The temporall Lords that maintain such abominations as we see, & flattering counsellors of State, blasphemous Balfour, now called clerk of Register, Sinclare Dean of Lestarrig, and B^p. of Brechen, p. 95blinde of one eye in the body, but of both of his soul, upon whom God shortly after took vengeance. Leslie Preistesgate, Abbot of Londrosse, and Bishop of Rosse. Simon Preston, of Cragmillar, a right Epicurian: Whose end will be ere it be long according to their works. But now to return to our History.

Hadington being kept, and much hearship done about in the Countrey (for what the English-men destroyed not, that was consumed by the French) God begins to fight for Scotland: For in the Town he sent a Plague so contagious, that with great difficultie could they have their dead buried. They were oft refreshed with new men, but all was in vain. Hunger and plague within, and the pursuit of the enemy with a campe volant lay about them, and intercepted all victuals (except when they were brought by a Convoy from Barwick) so constrained them that the Councel of England was conpelled in the spring time, to call their Forces from that place. And so spoiling and burning some part of the Town, they left it to be occupied to such as first should take possession, and those were the French-men, with a meane number of the ancient inhabitants, and so did God performe the words and threatnings of M. George Wischard, who said,Note. That for that contempt of Gods Messenger, they should be visited with sword and fire, with pestilence, strangers and famine; All which they found in such perfection, that to this day yet, that Town hath neither recovered the former beauty, nor yet men of such wisdom and ability, as then did inhabit it. Hereafter was Peace contracted betwixt France, England, and Scotland; yea, a severall Peace was contracted betwixt Scotland and Flanders together with all the Easterlings. So that Scotland had peace with the world. But yet would their Bishops make War against God: For as soone as ever they got any quietnesse, they apprehended Adam Wallace, alias, Fian, a simple man without great learning, but one that was zealous in godlinesse, and of an upright life: He, with his wife Beatrice Levingstonne, frequented the company of the Lady Ormeston, for instruction of her children, during the trouble of her husband, who then was banished. This Bastard, called Bishop of S. Andrews, took the said Adam forth of the place of Wynton (men supposed that they thought to have apprehended the Lairde) and carried him to Edinburgh, where after certain dayes he was presented to judgement in the Church of the Blacke Theeves,The accusation of Adam Wallace and his answers. alias, Friers, before Duke Hamilton, the Earle of Huntly, and divers others besides. The Bishops and their rabble, they began to accuse him (Master Iohn Lawder was his accusator) That he took upon him to Preach. He answered, That he never judged himselfe worthy of so excellent a vocation, and therefore he never took upon him to Preach; but he would not deny, that sometimes at Table, and sometimes in some other privie places he would reade and had read the Scriptures, and had given such exhortation as God pleased to give to him,The Papisticall manner of accusation. to such as pleased to heare him. Knave, quoth one, What have you to do to meddle with the Scripture? I think, (said he) it is the dutie of every Christian, to seek the will of his God, and the assurance of his salvation where it is to be found, and that is within the Old and New Testament. What then (said another) shall we leave to the Bishops and Church-men for to do? if every man shall be a babler p. 96upon the Bible. It becometh you (said he) to speak more reverently of God; and of his blessed Word: if the Judge were uncorrupted he would punish you, for your blasphemie. But to your Question, I answer; That albeit ye and I, and other five thousand within this Realm should read the Bible, and speak of it, what God should give us to speak, yet left we more to the Bishops to do, then either they will do, or can do. For we leave to them publike…y to Preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and to feed the flock, which he hath redeemed by his own blood, and hath commanded the same to all true Pastors. And when we leave this unto them, me thinks, we leave to them a heavie burden; And that we do unto them no wrong, although we search our own salvation where it is to be found, considering that they are but dumb Dogs, and unsavory Salt, that hath altogether lost the season. The Bishops hereat offended, said, What prating is this?Note. Let his accusation be read. And then was begun, False Traitour, Hereticke; Adam Wallace his accusations and answers.Thou Baptizedst thine own Childe. Thou saidst, There is no Purgatory; Thou saidst, That to pray to Saints, and for the dead, is Idolatry, and a vaine Superstition, &c. What sayest thou to these things. He answered, If I should be bound to answer, I would require an upright and an indifferent Judge. The Earle of Huntly disdainefully said; Foolish man, Wilt thou desire any other Judge then my Lord Dukes Grace, great Governour of Scotland; and my Lords the Bishops, and the Clergie here present? Whereto he answered; The Bishops can be no Judges to me, for they are open enemies to the Doctrine that I professe. And as for my Lord Duke, I cannot tell whether he hath the knowledge that should be in him that should judge and discern betwixt Lies and the Trueth, the Inventions of men, and the true worshipping of God. I desire Gods Word (and with that he produced the Bible) to be judge betwixt the Bishops and me, and I am content that ye all hear; and if by this Booke I shall be convinced, to have taught, spoken, or done, in matters of Religion, any thing that repugneth to Gods will, I refuse not to die. But if I cannot be convinced (as I am assured by Gods Word I shall not) then I in Gods name desire your assistance, That malicious men execute not upon me unjust Tyrannie. The Earle of Huntley said, What a babling foole is this? Thou shalt get none other Judges then these that sit here. Whereunto the said Adam answered; The good will of God be done: But be ye assured,Note. my Lord, with such measure as ye mete to others, with the same measure it shall be met to you againe. I know that I shall die, but be ye assured, that my blood shall be required at your hands. Alexander, Earle of Glencarne, yet alive, said to the Bishop of Orknay, and others that sate nigh him,Protestation of the Earle of Glencarne. Take heed all you my Lords of the Clergie, for here I protest, for my part, that I consent not to his death: And so without feare prepared the said Adam to answer. And first to the Baptizing of his own Childe,Note. he said, It was and is as lawfull to me, for lacke of a true Minister, to Baptize my owne Childe, as that it was to Abraham to Circumcise his son Ismael, and his family. And as for Purgatory, Praying to Saints, and for the dead, I have oft read (said he) both the New and Old Testaments, but I neither could finde mention, nor assurance of them; And therefore I beleeve that they are but meere inventions of men, devised for covetousnesse sake. Well, p. 97quoth the Bishop, ye hear this, my Lords. What sayest thou of the Masse, speires the Earle of Huntly? He answered, I say, my Lord, as my Lord Jesus Christ saith, That which is in greatest estimation before men, is abhomination before God. Then all cried out, Heresie, Heresie. And so was the simple servant of God adjudged to the fire, which he patiently sustained that same day at after-noon upon the Castle-hill.

And so began they again to pollute the land which God had lately plagued, for yet their iniquity was not come to full ripenesse, as that God would that they should be manifested to this whole Realme (as this day they are) to be Fagots prepared for everlasting fire; and to be men whom neither Plagues may correct, nor the light of Gods Word convert from their darknesse and impiety.

The Peace as is said, is contracted. The Queen Dowager past by sea to France, with Gallies that for that purpose were prepared, and took with her divers of the Nobility of Scotland. The Earles Huntley, Glencarne, Mershell, Cassiles: The Lords Maxwell, Fleiming, Sir George Dowglas, together with all the late Kings naturall sons, and divers Barons, and Gentlemen of Ecclesiasticall estate; the Bishop of Galloway, and many others, with promise that they should be richly rewarded for their good service. What they received we cannot tell, but few were made rich at their returning. The Dowager had to practise somewhat with her brethren, the Duke of Gwise, and the Cardinall of Loraine. The weight whereof the Governour after felt; for shortly after her returne, was the Governour deposed of the government (justly by God, but most unjustly by man) and she made Regent, in the yeer of our Lord 1554. and a Crown put upon her head, as seemly a sight (if men had eyes) as to put a Saddle upon the backe of an unruly Cow. And so began she to practise, practise upon practise, How France might be advanced, her friends made rich, and she brought to immortall glory: For that was her common talk, So that I may procure the wealth and honour of my Friends, and a good fame unto my selfe, I regard not what God do after with me. And in very deed, in deep dissimulation to bring her owne purpose to effect, she passed the common sort of women, as we will after heare. But yet God, to whose Gospel she declared her selfe enemie, in the end frustrated her of all her devices. Thus did light and darknesse strive within the Realme of Scotland: The darknesse ever before the World suppressing the light, from the death of that notable servant of God,The death and vertues of Edward the sixth. Master Patricke Hamilton, untill the death of Edward the sixth, the most godly and most vertuous King that had been known to have reigned in England, or elsewhere, these many yeeres by past, who departed the miseries of this life the sixth of July, Anno 1553. The death of this Prince was lamented of all the godly within Europe, for the graces given unto him of God, as well of nature, as of erudition and godlinesse, passed the measure that accustomably is used to be given to other princes in their greatest perfection, and yet exceeded he not 16 yeers of age. What Gravity, above age? What Wisdom, wherein he passed all understanding or expectation of man? And what Dexterity in answering in all things proposed, were in that excellent Prince. The Ambassadours of all Countries (yea, some that were mortall enemies to him, and to his p. 98Realme, amongst whom the Queen Dowager of Scotland was not the least) could and did testifie: For the said Queen Dowager returning from France through England, communed with him at length, and gave record when she came to this Realme, That she found more wisdome and solide judgement in young King Edward, then she would have looked for in any three Princes that were then in Europe. His liberality towards the godly and learned that were in other Realms persecuted was such, as Germans, French-men, Italians, Scots, Spaniards, Polonians, Grecians, and Hebrews born, can yet give sufficient document. For how honourably was Martin Bucer, Peter Martyr, Iohn Alasco, Emanuel Gualterus, and many others upon his publike stipends entertained, their parents can witnesse, and they themselves during their lives would never have denied. After the death of this most vertuous Prince; of whom the godlesse people of England (for the most part) were not worthy, Satan intended nothing lesse then the light of Jesus Christ utterly to have been extinguished within the whole Isle of Britain. For after him was raised up in Gods hot displeasure, that Idolatresse and mischievous Mary of the Spaniards blood, a cruell persecutrix of Gods people, as the acts of her unhappy reigne can sufficiently witnesse. And in Scotland that same time (as we have heard) reigned that crafty practiser, Mary of Loraine, then named Regent of Scotland, who bound to the devotion of her two brethren, the Duke of Guise, and Cardinall of Loraine, did onelyonly abide the opportunity to cut the throat of all those, in whom she suspected any knowledge of God to be within the Realme of Scotland. And so thought Satan that his kingdome of darknesse was in quietnesse and rest, as well in the one Realme as in the other. But that provident eye of our eternall God, who continually watches for preservation of his Church, did so order all things, that Satan shortly after found himselfe farre disappointed of his conclusion taken. For in that cruell persecution used by Queen Mary of England, Who first after the death of King Edward began to preach in Scotland.were godly men dispersed into divers nations; of whom it pleased the goodnesse of God to send some unto us for our comfort and instruction. And first came a simple man, William Harlaw, whose erudition, although it excell not, yet for his whole and diligent plainnesse in Doctrine, is he to this day worthy of praise, and remaines a fruitfull member within the Church of Scotland. After him came that notable man Iohn Willocke, as one that had some Commission to the Queen Regent, from the Dutchesse of Emden. But his principall purpose was to essay what God would worke by him in his native countrey. These two did sometimes in severall companies assemble the brethren, who by their exhortations began greatly to be encouraged, and did shew that they had an earnest thirst of godlinesse. And last came Iohn Knox in the end of the harvest, Anno 1555. who first being lodged in the house of that notable man of God Iames Sime, began to exhort secretly in that same house, whereunto repaired the Laird of Dun, David Forresse, and some certain personages of the Town,Elizabeth Adamson, and her death. amongst whom was Elizabeth Adamson, then spouse to Iames Barrone Burgesse of Edinburgh, who by reason that she had a troubled conscience delighted much in the company of the said Iohn, because that he, according to the grace given unto him, opened more fully the Fountaine of Gods Mercies, then did the common sort of Teachers, p. 99that she had heard before (for she had heard none except Friers) and did with such greedinesse drinke thereof, that at her death she did expresse the fruit of her hearing, to the great comfort it of all those that repaired unto her. For albeit she suffered most grievous torment in her body, yet out of her mouth was heard nothing, but praising of God, except that sometimes she lamented the troubles of those that were troubled by her. Being sometimes demanded by her sisters; What she thought of that pain which she then suffered in body, in respect of that wherewith sometimes she was troubled in spirit. She answered, A thousand yeere of this torment, and ten times more joyned unto it, is not to be compared in the quarter of an houre that I suffered in my spirit. I thanke my God, through Iesus Christ, that hath delivered me from that fearfull pain, and welcome be this, even so long as it pleaseth his godly Majestie to exercise me therewith. A little before her departure, she desired her sisters and some others that were beside her, to sing a Psalme, and amongst others she appointed the 103. Psalme, beginning, My soule praise thou the Lord alwayes, which ended, she said, At the Teaching of this Psalme, began my troubled soule, first effectually to taste of the mercy of my God, which now to me is more sweet and precious, then if all the kingdomes of the earth were given to me to possesse them a thousand yeeres. The Priests urged her with their Ceremonies and Superstitions. To whom she answered, Depart from me ye Sergeants of Satan: for I have refused, and in your own presence doe refuse all your abominations. That which you call your Sacrament, and Christs body (as ye have deceived us to beleeve in times past) is nothing but an Idoll, and hath nothing to do with the right Institution of Iesus Christ, and therefore in Gods Name I command you not to trouble me. They departed, alleadging, That she raved, and wist not what she said. And she shortly after slept in the Lord Jesus, to no small comfort of those that saw her blessed departing. This we could not omit of this worthy woman, who gave so notable a Confession, before that the great light of Gods Word did universally shine thorowout this Realme.

At the first coming of the said Iohn Knox, he perceiving divers who had a zeale to godlinesse, make small scruple to go to the Masse, or to communicate with the abused Sacraments in the Papisticall manner, began as well in privie Conference as in Preaching, to shew the impietie of the Masse, and how dangerous a thing it was, to communicate in any sort with Idolatrie: wherewith the conscience of some being affrighted, the matter began to be agitate from man to man. And so was the said Iohn called to Supper, by the Laird of Dun, for that same purpose, where were assembled David Forresse, Master Robert Lockart, Iohn Willocke, and William Maitland of Lethington younger, a man of good Learning, and of sharpe wit and reasoning. The Question was Proposed, and it was answered by the said Iohn; That in no wise it was lawfull to a Christian to present himselfe to that Idoll. Nothing was omitted that might serve for the purpose, and yet was every head so fully answered,Note. and especially one, whereunto they thought their great defence stood: To wit, That Paul at the commandment of Iames, and of the Elders of Ierusalem, passed to the Temple, and fained himselfe to p. 100pay his vow with others. This, we say, and other things, were so fully answered, that William Maitland concluded, saying, I see very perfectly that our shifts will serve nothing before God, seeing that they stand us in so small stead before men. The answer of Iohn Knox to the fact of Paul, and to the commandment of Iames was;Note. That Pauls fact had nothing to do with their going to Masse. For to pay Vowes was sometimes Gods Commandment, as was never Idolatry: But their Masse from the originall, was, and remained odious Idolatry; Therefore the fact was most unlike. Secondarily, said he, I greatly doubt whether either Iames his commandment or Pauls obedience, proceeded of the holy Ghost: We know their counsell tendeth to this,Note. That Paul would shew himselfe one that observed diligently the very small points of the Law, to the end he might purchase to himself the favours of the Jews, who were offended at him, by reason of the bruites that were spread, That he taught defection from Moses. Now while he obeyed their counsell, he fell into the most desperate danger that ever he sustained before; whereby it was evident, That God approved not that mean of reconciliation; but rather, that he plainely declareth, That evil should not be done, that good might come of it. Evil it was for Paul to confirme those obstinate Jewes in their Superstition by his example;Note diligently. worse it was to him to expose himselfe and the Doctrine which before he had taught to slander and mockage. And therefore concluded the said Iohn, That the fact of Paul, and the sequell that thereof followed, appeared rather to fight against them that would go to the Masse, then to give unto them any assurance to follow his example; unlesse that they would that the like trouble should instantly apprehend them, that apprehended him for obeying worldly-wise councell. After these, and like reasonings,Masse abhorred. the Masse began to be abhorred of such as before used it for the fashion and avoiding of slander (as then they termed it) Iohn Knox, at request of the Laird of Dun, followed him to his place of Dun, where he remained a monethmonth, daily exercised in Preaching, whereunto resorted the principall men of that countrey. After this returning, his residence was most in Calder, whither repaired unto him, the Lord Erskin, the Earle of Argyle, then Lord of Lorne, and Lord Iames, then Priour of S. Andrews, and after Earle of Murrey, where they heard, and so approved his Doctrine, that they wished it to have been publike. That same Winter he taught commonly in Edinburgh, and after Christmas, by the conduct of the Laird of Bar, and Robert Campbell of Kingieancleuch, he came to Kyle, and taught in the Bar, in the house of the Ca…nell, in the Kingieancleuch, in the Town of Air, and in the houses of Uchiltrie and Gathgirth, and in some of them he ministred the Lords Table. Before Easter the Earl of Glencarne sent for him to his place of Fynlaston, where after Sermon, he also ministred the Lords Table. Whereof besides himself, were partakers, his Lady, two of his sons, and certain of his friends. And so returned he to Calder, where divers from Edinburgh, and from the Countrey about, assembled, as well for the Doctrine, as for the right use of the Lords Table, which before they had never practised. From thence he departed the second time to the Laird of Dun, and teaching then in greater liberty, the Gentlemen required, That he should minister likewise unto them the p. 101Table of the Lord Jesus, where were partakers, the most part of the Gentlemen of the Mernes, who God be praised, to this day do constantly remain in the same doctrine which then they professed. To wit, That they refused all society with Idolatry, and bent themselves to the uttermost of their powers to maintain the true Preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, as God should offer unto them Preachers and opportunitie. The bruite hereof spread (for the Friers from all quarters flocked to the Bishops) the said Iohn Knox was summoned to appear in the Church of the blacke Friers in Edinburgh, the fifteenth day of May, which day the said Iohn decreed to keep, and for that purpose Iohn Erskin of Dun, with divers other Gentlemen assembled to the Town of Edinburgh. But that Diet held not. For whether the Bishops perceived informalitie in their own proceedings, or if they feared danger to ensue upon their extremity, it is unknown unto us. But the Saturday before the day appointed, they cust their own summons, and the said Iohn, the same day of the summons taught in Edinburgh, in a greater audience then ever before he had done in that Town. The place was the Bishop of Dunkelles, his great lodging, where he continued in Teaching ten dayes, before and after noon. The Earle of Glencarne allured the Earle of Masrchell, who with Henry Drummond (his counseller for that time) heard an exhortation (but it was in the night) who were so well contented with it, that they both willed the said Iohn to write unto the Queen Regent somewhat that might move her to hear the Word of God.Note. He obeyed their desire, and wrote that which after was published▪ which we have caused to be Printed at the end of this Book, and is called, The Letter to the Queen Dowager; Which was delivered unto her own hands by the said Alexander Earle of Glencarne: Which Letter when she had read, within a day or two, she delivered it to the proud Prelate Betone, Bishop of Glasgow, and said in mockage; Please you my Lord to read a Pasquill: Which words coming to the ears of the said Iohn, was the occasion that to his Letter he made his additions, as yet may be seen. As concerning the threatnings pronounced against her own person, and the most principall of her friends; let these very flatterers see what had failed of all that he had written.

While Iohn Knox was thus occupied in Scotland, Letters came to him from the English Church that was assembled at Geneva (which was separated from that superstitious and contentious company that was at Franckford) commanding him in Gods Name, as he that was their chosen Pastour, to repaire unto them for their comfort. Upon the which the said Iohn took his leave from us, almost in every congregation where before he had Preached, and exhorted us to Prayers, to Reading of the Scriptures, and mutuall conference, untill such time as God should give unto us greater libertie. And hereupon he sent before him to Deep, his mother in Law Elizabeth Bowes, and his wife Marjory, with no small dolour of their hearts, and of many of us. He himselfe by procurement and labours of Robert Campell of Kingi…ancleuch, remained behinde in Scotland, and passed to the Earle of Argile, who then was in the castle Campbell, where he taught certain dayes. The Laird of Glenurqahay (which yet liveth) being one of his auditours, willed the said Earle of Argile to retaine him p. 102still, but he resolved on his journey, would not at that time stay for no request, adding, That if God blessed those small beginnings, and if that they continued in godlinesse, whensoever they pleased to command him, they should finde him obedient. He said, That once he must needs visit that little flock which the wickednesse of men had compelled him to leave. And so in the monethmonth of July he left this Realm, and past to France, and so to Geneva. Immediately after, the Bishops summoned him, and for non-appearance burnt him in effigie, at the Crosse of Edinburgh, in the yeer of our Lord 1555. from the which unjust Sentence the said Iohn made his appellation,1555. and caused to Print the same, and direct it to the Nobility and Commons of Scotland, Note.as yet may be read. In the Winter that the said Iohn abode in Scotland, You will finde this Appellation at the end of this book.appeared a Comet, the course whereof was from the South and South-West, to the North and North-east. It was seen the moneths of November, December, and January; It was called, The firie bosom. Soon after died Christierne King of Denmark; and War arose between Scotland and England, the Commissioners of both Realms were disappointed, who almost the space of six moneths had been upon the conditions of Peace, and were upon a neere point of conclusion. The Queene Regent with her Councell of the French faction decreed,War against England by the meanes of the Queen Regent. War at New Battell, without giving any advertisement to the Commissioners for the part of Scotland.

Such is the fidelitie of Princes, guided by Priests, whensoever they seeke their owne affections to be served. In the end of that next harvest was seen upon the borders of England and Scotland a strange fire, which descended from the heaven, and burnt divers cornes in both the Realms, but most in England. There was presented to the Queen Regent, by Robert Ormestone, a Calfe,A calfe with two heads. having two heads, whereat she skipped, and said, It was but a common thing. The Warre began in the end of the harvest, as is said, and conclusion was taken that Warke should be assieged. The Army and Ordnance past forward to Maxwell Hewcht. The Queen Regent remained in the Castle of Hume, and thinking that all things were in assurance, Monsieur Dosell, then Lieutenant for France, gave charge that the Canons should be transported over the water of Tweid, which was done with expedition (for the French in such facts are expert) but the Nobility of Scotland nothing content of such proceedings,The fact of the Nobility of Scotland, at Maxwel Hewcht after consultation amongst themselves, past to the Pavilion of Monsieur Dosell, and in his own face declared, That in no wayes would they invade England. And therefore commanded the Ordnance to be retired: And so it was without further delay. This put an affray in Monsieur Dosells breeches, and kindled such a fire in the Queen Regents stomacke, as was not well slacked till her breath failed. And thus was that enterprise frustrate. But yet Warre continued, during the which, the Gospel of Jesus Christ began wonderously to flourish. For in Edinburgh began publikely to exhort William Harlow, Iohn Dowglas who had (being with the Earle of Argyle) Preached in Leyth, and sometimes exhorted in Edinburgh. Paul Meaffen began publikely to Preach in Dundie, The second return of Iohn Willock to Scotland.and so did divers others in Angus and the Mernes. And last, at Gods good pleasure arrived Iohn Willocke, the second time from Emden, whose returne was so joyfull to the brethren, that their p. 103zeal and godly courage daily encreased. And albeit he contracted a dangerous sicknesse, yet he ceased not from labours, but taught and exhorted from his bed some of the Nobility (of whom some are fallen back, amongst them the Lord Seaton is chief) with many Barons and Gentlemen his auditors,Lord Seton an Apostata. and by him were godly instructed, and wonderously comforted. They kept their conventions, and held counsells with such gravity and closenesse, that the enemies trembled. The Images were stollen away in all parts of the Countrey.The abolishing of Images, and trouble therefore. And in Edinburgh was that great Idol called Saint Gyle, first drowned in the North Loch, after burnt, which raised no small trouble in the Town; for the Friers rooping like Ravens upon the Bishops, the Bishops ran upon the Queen, who to them was favourable enough, but that she thought it could not stand with her advantage to offend such a multitude as then took upon them the defence of the Gospel,The Preachers summoned. and the name of Protestants. And yet consented she to summon the Preachers: whereat the Ptotestants neither offended, neither yet thereof afraid, determined to keep the day of Summons, as that they did. Which perceived by the Prelats and Priests,The practice of Prelats, and what thereof ensued. they procured a Proclamation to be publikely made, That all men that were come to the Towne without commandment of the Authority, should with all diligence repair to the Borders, and there remain fifteen dayes: For the Bishop of Galloway in this manner of rime said to the Queen; Madame, because they are come without order; I read ye send them to the Border. Now so had God provided, That the quarter of the Westland (in the which was many faithfull men) was that same day returned from the Border; who understanding the matter to proceed from the malice of the Priests, assembled themselves together, and made passage to themselves, till that they came to the very privie chamber, where the Queen Regent and the Bishops were. The Gentlemen began to complain upon their strange intertainment, considering that her Majesty had found in them so faithfull obedience in all things lawfull. While the Queen began to craft, a zealous and a bold man, Iames Chalmers of Gaithgyrth, said, Madame, we know that this is the malice and device of the Iewels, The bold words of Iames Chalmers of Gaithgyrth.and of that bastard (meaning the Bishop of S. Andrews) that standeth by you; we avow to God we shall make a day of it. They oppresse us and our Tenants, for feeding of their idle bellies: They trouble our Preachers, and would murther them and us: Shall we suffer this any longer? No, Madame, it shall not be. And therewith every man put on his steel Bonnets. There was heard nothing of the Queens part, but, My joyes, my hearts, What ayles you? Me means no evil to you nor to your Preachers: The Bishops shall do you no wrong, ye are all my loving Subjects; I know nothing of this Proclamation; the day of your Preachers shall be discharged, and me will heare the controversie that is betwixt the Bishops and you; they shall do you no wrong. My Lords (said she to the Bishops) I forbid you either to trouble them or their Preachers. O crafty flatterer!And unto the Gentlemen, who were wonderously commoved, she turned again and said, O my hearts, should ye not love the Lord your God with all-your heart, with all your minde? And should ye not love your neighbours as your self? With these and the like words she kept the Bishops from buffets at that time. And so the day of Summons being discharged, began the brethren universally farther to be encouraged. But yet p. 104could the Bishops in no sort be quiet; for Saint Gyles day approaching, they gave charge to the Provost-Ballies, and counsell of Edinburgh, either to get again the old Saint Gyle, or else upon their expences to make a new Image.The command of the Bishop The Counsell answered, That to them the charge appeareth very unjust; for they understood that God in some places had commanded Idols and Images to be destroyed: The answer of Edinburgh.But where he had commanded Images to be set up, they had not read; and desired the Bishop to finde a warrant for his commandment. Whereat the Bishop offended,Edinburgh appealeth from the sentence of the Bishop of S. Andrews. admonished, under pain of cursing, which they prevented by a former appellation, appealing from him, as a partiall and corrupt Judge, unto the Popes Holinesse; and so great things shortly following that, passed in oblivion. Yet would not the Priests and Friers cease to have that great solemnity, and manifest abomination, which they accustomedly had upon Saint Gyles day; to wit, They would have that Idoll borne, and therefore was all preparations duely made. A Marmouset Idoll was borrowed from the gray Friers (a silver piece of Iames Carmichell was laid in pledge) it was fast fixed with Iron nailes, upon a barrow called there Fertor. Triumph for hearing of stock Gyle.Their Asses, bloody Priests, Friers, Channons, and rotten Papists, with Tabors and Trumpeters, Banners and Bag-pipes: And who was there to lead the reigne, but the Queen Regent her selfe, with all her shavelings, for honour of that Feast. Well, about goeth it, and cometh downe the high street, and downe to the common Crosse. The Queen Regent dined that day in Alexander Carpentar his house, betwixt the Bowes: And so when the Idol returned back again, she left it, and past in to her dinner. The hearts of the brethren were wonderously enflamed; and seeing such abomination so manifestly maintained, were decreed to be revenged. They were divided in severall companies, whereof not one knew of another. There were some temporizers that day (amongst whom David Forresse, called the Generall, was one) who fearing the chance to be done, as it fell, laboured to stay the brethren; but that could not be: For immediately after that the Queen was entred in the lodging, some of those that were of the enterprise drew nigh to the Idol, as willing to help to bear him; and getting the Fertor upon their shoulders, began to shoulder, thinking that thereby the Idol would have fallen, but that was provided and prevented by the Iron nailes, as we have said. And so began one to cry,The down casting of stock Gyle, and the discomfiture of Baals Priests. Down with the Idoll, down with it: And then without delay it was pulled downe. Some brag made the Priests Patrones at the first; but when they saw the feeblenesse of their god (for one tooke him by the heeles, and dading his head to the street, left Dagon without a head or hands, and said, Fie upon thee, thou young Saint Gyle, thy father would have tarried for such.) This considered (we say) the Priests and Friers fled faster then they did at Pinckey Clewch. There might have beene so sudden a fray as seldome hath been amongst that sort of men within this Realme; for down goeth the Crosses, off goeth the Surplices, round Caps, Cornets with the Crowns. The gray Friers gaped, the black Friers blew, the Priests panted and fled, and happy was he that first gat the house; for such a sudden fray came never amongst the generation of Antichrist within this Realme before. By chance there lay upon a stayre a merry English-man;A merry English-man. and seeing the discomfiture to be without blood, p. 105thought he would adde some merrinesse to the matter: and so cried he over the staire, and said, Fie upon you whorsons, why have you broken order, down the street they passed in aray, and with great mirth: why flee the villains now without order? turn and strike every man a stroke for the honour of his God; fie cowards fie, ye shall never be judged worthy of your wages againe. But exhortations were then unprofitable: For after that Bell had broken his necke,Note. there was no comfort to his confused Armie. The Queene Regent laid up this amongst her other inventions, till that she might have seene the time proper to have revenged it. Search was made for the doers, but none could be deprehended: For the brethren assembled themselves in such sort, in companies, singing Psalmes, and praising God, that the proudest of the enemies were astonished. This Tragedie of Saint Gyles was so terrible to some Papists, that Durie, sometimes called for his filthinesse Abbot Stottikin, and then intituled, Bishop of Galloway, left his Riming,The death of the Bishop of Galoway, and his last confession. wherewith he was accustomed, and departed this life even as he had lived. For the Articles of his beleefe were. I referre. Decarte you. Ha, ha, the foure Kings and all made. The devil go with it; It is but a varlet. From France we thought to have gotten a Rubie; And yet is he nothing but a Cahoobie. Qualis vita, finis ita.With such Faith and such Prayers departed out of this life that enemy of God, who had vowed and plainly said,The Vow of that marked beast Dury, B. o… Galloway. That in despight of God, so long as they that then were Prelates lived, should that Word (called the Gospel) never be Preached within this Realme. After him followed that belly-God Master David Panter, called, Bishop of Rosse, even with the like documents,The death of M David Panter. except that he departed eating and drinking, which, together with the rest that thereupon depended, was the pastime of his life. The most part of the Lords that were in France at the Queens Marriage▪ although that they got their leave from the Court, yet they forgot to return to Scotland. For whether it was by an Italian Posset, or French Feggs, or by the Pottage of their Apothecary (he was a French-man) there departed from this life, the Earl of Cassiles, the Earl of Rothesse, Lord Fleming, and the Bishop of Orknay, The death of the Bishop of Orknay Reid, &…whose end was even according to his life: For after that he was driven back by a contratious winde, and forced to land again at Deep, perceiving his sicknesse to increase, he caused to make his bed betwixt his two coffers (some said upon them) such was his God, the gold that therein was inclosed, that he could not depart therefrom, so long as memory would serve him. The Lord Iames, then Prior of S. Andrews, had (by all appearance) licked of the same broath that dispatched the rest, for thereof to his death, his stomacke doth testifie. But God preserved for a better purpose. This same Lord Iames, after Earle of Murray, and the said Bishop were commonly at debate in matters of Religion; and therefore the said Lord, hearing of the Bishops disease, came to visit him: and finding him not so well at a point, as he thought he should have been, and as the honour of the countrey required, said unto him; Fie, my Lord, how lie you so? will you not go to your Chamber, and not lie heere in this utter Roome. Orknays answer and his friends home.His answer was; I am well where I am, my Lord, so long as I can tarry, for I am neer unto my friends (meaning his coffers, and the gold therein.) But my Lord (said he) how long have you and I been in plea for Purgatorie, Note.I thinke that I shall know ere it be long whether there be such a p. 106place or not. While the other did exhort him to call to minde the promises of God, and the vertue of Christs death: He answered, Nay my Lord, let me alone, for you and I never agreed in our life, and I thinke we shall not agree now at my death, I pray you therefore let me alone. The said Lord Iames departed to his Lodging, and the other shortly after departed this life; whither, the great day of the Lord will declare.

When the word of the departing of so many Patrons of Papistry, and of the manner of their departing, came unto the Queene Regent, after astonishment and musing,The Queen Regents sentence of the death of her Papists. she said; What shall I say of such men? They left me as beasts, and as beasts they die: God is not with them, neither with that which they enterprise. While these things were in doing in Scotland and France, that perfect hypocrite, Master Iohn Synclare, then Deane of Lestarrige, and now Lord President, and Bishop of Brechin, began to Preach in his Church of Lestarrige, and at the beginning held himselfe so indifferent,Dean of Lestarrige hypocrite began to preach. that many had opinion of him, That he was not far from the Kingdom of God. But his hypocrisie could not long be cloaked: for when he understood that such as feared God began to have a good opinion of him, and that the Friers and others of that sect began to whisper, That if he took not heed in time to himself and unto his Doctrine, he would be the destruction of the whole state of the Church. This by him understood, he appointed a Sermon, in the which he promised to give his judgement upon all such heads, as then were in controversie in the matters of Religion. The bruit hereof made his audience great at the first: But that day he so handled himself, that after that no godly man did credit him: for he not onelyonly gainsaid the Doctrine of Justification and of Prayer, which before he had taught, but also he set up and maintained Papistry to the uttermost prick, yea, Holy-water, Pilgrimage, Purgatory, and Pardons were of such vertue in his conceit, That without them he looked not to be saved. In this mean time the Clergy made a brag, That they would dispute. But M. David Panter, M. David Panters counsell … his forsworne brethren the Bishops.which then lived and lay at Lestarrige, disswaded them therefrom, affirming, That if ever they disputed, but where themselves were both Judge and partie, and where that fire and sword should obey their decree, that then their cause was marred for ever: For their victory stood neither in God nor in his Word; but in their own wills, and in the things concluded by their own counsells (together with sword and fire) whereto (said he) these new up-start fellows will give no place, but they will call you to your Count-book, and that is, to the Bible; and by it ye will no more be found the men that ye are called, then the Devil will be approved to be God. And therefore if ye love your selves enter never into disputation, neither yet call ye the matter into question, but defend your possession, or else all is lost. Caiaphas could not give any better counsell to his companions, but yet God disappointed both them and him, as after we shall heare. At this same time some of the Nobility directed their Letters to call Iohn Knox from Geneva, for their comfort, and for the comfort of their brethren the Preachers, and others that then couragiously fought against the enemies of Gods Trueth. The Tenour of their Letter is this.

p. 107Grace, Mercy, and Peace for Salvation. DEarly Beloved in the Lord,

the faithfull that are of your acquaintance in these parts (thanks be unto God) are stedfast in the beliefe wherein yee left them,The second Vocation of Iohn Knox, by Letters of the Lords. and have a godly thirst and desire day by day of your presence againe: Now if the Spirit of God will so move you, and grant time unto you, we all heartily desire you, in the Name of the Lord, That ye would returne again into these parts, where you shall finde all the faithfull that ye left behinde you, not onelyonly glad to heare your doctrine, but also ready to jeopard their lives and goods for the setting forward of the glory of God, as he will permit. And albeit the Magistrates in this Countrey be as yet but in the state ye left them in, yet at the making hereof we have no experience of any more cruelty to be used, then was before: But rather we have beliefe, That God will augment his Flock, because we see daily the Friers, enemies to Christs Gospel, in lesse estimation with the Queen, and the Nobility of our Realm. This, in few words, is the minde of the faithfull being present, and others absent. The rest of our mindes this faithfull Bearer will shew you at length. Thus fare ye well in the Lord.

At Sterlin the tenth of March, Anno 1556. This is the true Copy of the Letter, being subscribed by the names under-written. Sic subscribitur,

Glencarne.

Lorne, now Argyle.

Erskin.

Iames Stewart.

The Letters were delivered to the foresaid Iohn in Geneva, by the hands of Iames Sym, who now resteth with Christ, and of Iames Barrone, who yet liveth. In the MonethMonth of May, immediately after these Letters were received and advised upon, he took consultation, as well with his owne Church, as with that notable servant of God Iohn Calvine, and with other godly Ministers; who all with one consent said, That he could not refuse that Vocation, unlesse he would declare himselfe rebellious unto his God, and unmercifull to his Countrey: And so he returned answer, with promise to visite them with reasonable expedition, and so soon as he might put order to that deare Flocke that was committed to his Charge. And so in the end of the next September after, he departed from Geneva, and came to Deape, where there met him contrary Letters, as by his answer thereto we may understand.