Edinburgh, the last day of August, 1682.

IN presence of the Lords Chancellor, and Advocat, William Campbel Skipper at Newport-Glasgow, being examined upon Oath, Depons, That in March last he was fraughted by Iohn Campbel Merchant in Glas­gow for Norway, France, or elsewhere, for three Months certain, conform to a Charter-party produc'd by him; and about that same day he having desired to know what could be his prospect of his Voyage to Norway with so small a Ship and Loading, he refused to tell him till he were at Sea, and being at the back of the Lews a day or two after they set off, the said Iohn Campbel then said, now Skipper I will tell you the design of our Voyage, which is to go to Norway and loaden Dails, and out of that to Amsterdam and buy Arms, and to take in the same to Cairnbulg; and the Deponent having asked him what he would do with these Arms there, he answered, may not my Lord come to his own again, and have use for them; and the Deponent understanding these Arms were to be made use of against the King, the Deponent answered, that when he was made Burgess of Dunbartoun there was an Oath taken of him to be true to the King, and the present Government, as it is established; and upon the De­ponents refusal to comply with him in the said Voyage, he got the Ships Company upon his side, who beat and abused the Deponent; and having gone from that to Norway, he behoved to suffer all the Voyage; there be­ing no Justice in these remote Places where he came to, from which, be­ing upon their Voyage to Holland, the Ship was by Providence cast away, for which they blam'd the Deponent, as having done the same wilfully. And this is the Truth, as he shall answer to God. Sic subscribitur

Edinburgh, the 14 of Ianuary, 1685.

IN presence of the Secret Committee, the said William Campbel being re­examined, adheres to his former Deposition; and further Declares, that he offered to the then Lord Chancellor, to apprehend the said Iohn Campbel; but the Chancellor made no answer to him, but whispered the General in the ear; and he heard afterwards that the said Camp­bel had escaped. And this is the Truth, as he shall answer to God. Sic subscribitur

Alexander Gordon of Earlston his Deposition, before a Committee of His Maje­sties Privy Council, and two of the Iustices.

Edinburg, the 25 of September, 1683.

Sederunt.

• The Earl of Linlithgow.
• Lord Livingston.
• Lord President of the Session.
• Lord Collington.
• Lord Castlehill.

• Lord Pitmedden.
• Lord Harcarss.
• The Earl of Linlithgow elected Praeses.

ALexander Gordon being further interrogate upon the Interrogators given in anent the Conspiracy in England, Declares, That the first time he heard of any design of rising in Arms, was at the time when the competition was anent the Sheriffs at Midsummer was a year, and then he heard the Duke of Monmonth was to head the Rebels, and this he had from Iohn Nisbet and one Mr. Murray a Scots man then at London, and declares that in Ianuary last the declarant being in Holland, he heard by general report that the late Earl of Argile was to raise some thousands of High-landers to assist the Rebels in England by making a diversion, and was to get a Sum of Money for that effect, and that in March last he having received a Letter in Holland from Iohn Nisbet then in London, he came over to London, where he met with the said Nisbet and Murray, who told the Declarant, they design'd to rise presently in England, and to Ren­dezvous in six or seven places at one time, particularly at Coventry and London, and that they computed several thousands in York-shire who were to joyn with them; that Murray desired the Declarant to go along with him to meet with the late Lords Russel and Gray, and the Lord Wharton, (but of Wharton they said they were not very sure, being a fearful man) and with Mr. Ferguson, and spoke of several old Officers of Cromwels that were to be there, but the Declarant not being for the present rising, shunned to meet with these Persons, or any of them; and both Nisbet and Murray told the Declarant, that Sir Iohn Cochran was with them, and heard from these two Persons, that both the Cessnocks were concerned in that Business: As to the Letter written by Io. N. of the 20 of March, and directed for the Declarant at Rotterdam, declares that Iohn Nisbet wrote the said Letter, and that under the Metaphor of Trade through­out the whole Letter, is meaned the design of rising in Arms and a Re­bellion, and that by the word Dispatching the old rotten Stuff, is meaned either the excluding the Sectaries from joyning with them, or destroying the Government, both Civil and Ecclesiastial, which last the Declarant supposes rather to be the meaning of the words; and that by the Factors are meaned their Emissaries for carrying on the Rebellion; and for that strange thing that was to fall out that Week or the next, the Declarant thinks [Page 7] is meaned the suddain muster of the Rebels; In the close of the Letter which says, Things are full as high as I tell you, is meaned that the Rebel­lion was instantly to break out; And having met with Iohn Nisbet after his coming from Holland, the said Nisbet explained to him, that the Sense of the said Letter was, as is above-said.

As to the little Letter direct to the Declarant under the name of Pringle, of the second of May 168 [...], declares that the name of the Subscriver, which is blotted out, was so blotted before it came to his hand; but by the Contents of it, he knows it is from one Robert Iohnstoun, a Tennent or Vassal to the Lord Gray on the Border, and that the Traders and Trading there spoke of, is the design'd Rebellion; and that the said Robert Iohnstoun offered to come into Scotland with the Declarant to have seen some of our dis-affected People here, and to have met with them; and that A. Y. mentioned in the said Letter, which the Letter says laboured to undervalue the dis-affected Party in Scotland, which he calls your Goods, is the name of Andrew Young, who stays about Newcastle, whom he supposes to be a suspected person, because he was afraid Collonel Struthers would apprehend him; and that he sup­poses the way that that Letter came to his hand, was from some person that was at a Meeting at Tweeds-moor about that time, where were present se­veral of these People that had Commission from the several Districts, but he himself was not at that Meeting. Sic subscribitur

Follows the Letter direct b [...] Jo. N. which was found upon Earlston.

ON Saturday last I had the occasion of seeing a Letter from you, di­rected for Mrs. Gaunt, in whose absence Mrs. Ward had received it, at the reading of which I was not a little troubled, considering my full reso­lutions signified to you in my last; for effectuating of which I had spoke for Passage, and taken my farewel of Mother Gaunt, she going into the Coun­trey: And that very Week I was set upon by that Gentleman with whom I stay, and Io. Iohnston with some others to stay but a Moneth, and if that did not accomplish somewhat in hand to help Trading, then I should be no lon­ger detain'd▪ After I was prevailed to retract so far, I ordered Io. who had time at command, to give you an ample account of matters; and with­al Io. was desired by our Friends from Scotland to stand here in my place the like engagements of secrecy, &c. being taken, and thereupon I ordered him to shew you the grounds of my staying, and to desire if you inclined to cross the Water to come this way, but since many are the confused, yea troub­led thoughts that have possessed me for yielding, concerning which, [...] my yielding to it, take the subsequent account.

In my last, or it precedent to it, I shewed you that Trading was very low here, and many breaking, which has made the Merchants (such as they are) to think that desperate Diseases must have desperate Cures; and while they have some Stock, it will be better to venture out, than to keep Shop and sit still till all be gone, and then they shall not be able to act, but let all go: Which resolution I thought a thing not to confide in, seing the most of them are Fire-side Merchants, and loves not to venture where storms are any thing apparent. But about my departing they shewed the model of Affairs in such order, that I see venture they must, and venture they will; whereupon [...] first demanded how our Trade would be carried on. Answer, they knew well what Goods had proven most prejudicial to the Trade, and therefore [Page 8] they thought to insist upon Negatives, in which whatever I proposed is as­sented to, as I find▪ and thus they thought best to still some Criticks in the Trade: And by this means first to endeavour the dispatching the old rotten Stuff before they order what to bring home next. This lookt somewhat strange to me, but when I consider all circumstances, I think they for them­selves do best in it: For our Merchants I made account only to have had some stock for to set the broken ones up again, and so bid them here fare-wel, and they to try their way, and we ours ▪ Since they think fit that some of these whom we have found (as you will say, when you hear them named) treach­erous dealers in our Trade, consulted, and accordingly have done: Where­upon I fear, or rather hope that our Merchants, tho broke, will rather de­sire to live a while longer as they are, than joyn with such, &c. to advance the Trade; unless surer grounds of their fidelity be gotten, the [...] is, or can be expected, and this is the bottom of all my sorrow. But to proceed, I find (if all hold that is intended) that they think it is almost at a point to set forward, if they had their Factors home, who are gone to try how the Countrey will like such Goods, as they are for, or against the making sale of. Friends, I mean Merchants, wrote to me, that after I had spoken to you, possibly you might come this way, the better, thereby to advise them what to do in this case, for I have signified somewhat of it to them, but not so far as this, because I thought to have seen you long ere this time: But I hope you will not misconstruct of my staying, seing in it I designed nothing but advancement of our Trade; but once this Week these Factors sent for will be here, and then matters will in instanti, either off or on, break, or go thorow. Wherefore in reference to Friends, I desire you will advise me what to do, if you cannot, or think it not convenient to come here; if you do, let a Letter preceed, and if any strange thing fall out this Nota, That this week His Majesty was expected from New-mer­cat, but came 8. dayes soon­er, by reason of the fire. Week or the next, I will again post it towards you; I think when this and the next Week is gone (and no News come from you) that I shall set forward, being still so ready, as that in 12 hours I can bid adieu: The Whiggs are very low as well in City as in the Suburbs, all Meetings being every Sunday beset with Constables to keep them out, and what they get is stollen, either at evening or morning. This Winter many of the great Bankers and Gold­smiths in Lombardstreet are broken and gone; The Ba [...]tam Factory in the Indies is taken by the Dutch; Confusion, Confusion in Town and Countrey, such as you never saw. Mrs. Ward and several others desire to be remem­bred to you. My endeared respects to your self and B. with the young men arrived. This I have writ in short, and in hast, expecting a Line with as great hast as you see is needful, for Matters are full as high as I tell you. Farewel.

Postscript. Be sure that you direct not for Bednal-green; but for me at Mr. Mead's in Stepney, near London.

The Letter from the Countess of Argile to her Husband.

Marked Number 2.

87887886804482, the 9 2315. 788982.

I Came here on Tuesday, where I found 70 4686442881788878 82 [...]6, 44 8444868817 81 81818382 44817026464482 4386 and the 70438983437088, 4, 8023261886 of the 874487182382 all the 80|23261327 came 174426 to see 29, 75 and 25 and [...]6 came with 29 43 came by an 2326131426 with all 151815 442618282326 and 43 82|268984, I never saw 75 so 8944311413 for 43 12298228561032. We hear of a great Circuit Court hath been at Stirlin, there were three Shires met there or 4. and M. of M. and the Kings Troop, and E. B. came with the Herotors of Fife, and his Troop. M. of M. went to Glasgow, but some of his Troop is at Stirlin, and there were some of them sent to to Edinburgh for an Prisoner they say they call Smith; and Friday last the 8. of Iune, 50 of the Kings Troop came with that Smith the length of an place they call Inch-belly-bridge as they go to Glasgow; there is they say a Moss, and near it a House and a Barn; and as they came near the Barn 8 armed men fired at the Gentlemen of the Guard, and shot dead one Mr. Murray, he had one Shot in his Forehead, 3 in his Body, and one in his Shoulder; and an other of the Gentlemen called Iohn Bannatine was shot thorow the Arm and Side, his Arm broken to Splinders, that he is dead before this time; the Prisoner when he saw them, lighted off his Horse, and run to them, and got an long Gun from his Fellows and ran into the Moss, the Gentlemen pursued, but got none of them taken, but many is in pursuit of them. It's a horrid way for any that bears the name of Christians to associat persons to Murder on the High-ways: There is an Story going here that there was a Ship put in to Newcastle which had some Box from Rebellious people in Holland, and when they came to Land, a Waiter came to search the Ship, and the Box was cast into the Sea, at which the Waiter called the Ship-Master to catch the Box as he would be answerable; so it's said, it was got and sent to the King, and that Io. Br. and some of L. St. Andrews Murderers was come to Scotland to make trouble, but I would hope such a Crew shall never get fitting here nor harbour. I must here bid you adieu, I use not to write so much News as this is. I got not writ last Week, because poor 70261217181412 is sick, and I will not 88868927888132201488142627 to every 2322, I [Page 12] have got nothing done in my Affairs, our Trade goes ill on; but 162313|18172384 will 171420548144 to 111410261020 I am sorry I 121022|132322232817182216 for 29 I am this far on my way to 1822291426|1022 and to see 81321318142617 I shall give 20 account when I come back, and I fear till then I will not get writ, for my Boy is sick. I sent the Letter to 20 211028 who I saw on Wednesday, 43 told me he had received yours; but did not yet 261410131828 which I confess I thought a little strange, being at least 8 days with him 781822291828141343171826 to stay with 29 but 43 would not, but said 7819221429 it was not meet 15|1828 nor 874415 for 43 to 8032 at this 17232927182710181318 thought none would be so 1802 as to take that 182043121021 not, I said 75 never stood to shew his constant 19322243527427 to 29 and all that belonged to 43 20 21108820 is very 1129271814 17181426 doing that 43 18 hope hath no 242014272926 1822 and I hear, for 10 20 43 13232887 there is a 291026102213 to 20 12102728102017|1820 to get 43 24201012 but 2021 knows not yet; there was 22 1429|142627291217 29102619 as has 1114 2 2171426 it makes 10 20 in 15141026 some 272921 14211317 1426 for 27244419182216 with 1822281426122321 1422 1413 2418241420 the 27281820 of their 17|232682 832181426 10 1623 75 hath so 27281819201413 for them all that hath procured 43 a great deal of love from the 12232228261032 and somewhat 142027 from others it's the 2728261022161427 [...]8 thing tho it could not 1114 24262329 [...]422 they could not 161428 an 281127|232029102814281820 they 2810ck the 88448788 and 241032 a 1626|1828 13181020 to 887081 468386434482 the 4280708619 who 1614|2827 too great 131420 of 2123221814 there was one here a 151429|1426 of 29 that lives in 2710201422. that was most 292218292728|203227293120221317181426 ii32 on 241028102228 for speaking 2826|14272322 I spoke to 2021 for 43 but none befriended 43 or appear'd for him but 75 who did 1126182216432315, the 282614272322 was only good of 29 the other tho the favorit of the 1220102619 was 15292213 10 20321426 and Ja. 23201815102228 23 1i27232029141323 ii2928 1812292013 29261428 10 long Letter to 29 who I think 1710241814 1114 2328171426.

Let these News be known to your Scots Friends.

This Letter Opened.

I Came here on Tuesday, where I found a great Meeting, E. Perth, M. Mon. E. Marr. Gen. Dr. and the Advocat, four Lords of the Session; all the Lords came here to see W. F. and Q. and R. came with W. D. came by an order with all Fife Heretors and D's Troop. I never saw F. so vexed for D. countrey (here is in plain writing some Scots News till it came to this) I got not Write the last week, because poor Archie C. is sick; and I will not trust my Letters to every one, I have got nothing done in my affairs, our Trade goes ill on; but God I hope will help me to bear all. I am sory I can do nothing for W. I am this far on my way to Inveran and to see my dear H. I shall give L. account when I come back: and I fear till then I will not get Write, for my boy is sick. I sent the Letter to L. Mat. who I saw on Wednesday, D. told me he had received yours, but did not yet Read it, which I confess I thought a little strange, being at least eight [Page 13] dayes with him, I invited D. here to stay with W▪ but D. would not, but said I knew it was not meet, fit, nor safe for D. to ly at this House; I said I thought none would be so ill, as to take that ill; D. came not, I said F. never stood to shew his constant kindness to W. and all that belonged to D. L. Matl. is very busie here doing what D. I hope hath no pleasure in▪ and I hear for all D. does there is a warrant to L. Castlehill to get D. place; but L. M. knows not yet. There was never such work as has been here, it makes all in fear, some summoned for speaking with Intercommuned people the stile of their Horn. Eight years ago: F. hath so stickled for them all, that it hath procured him a great deal of love from the Coun­trey, and somewhat else from others, its the strangest thing, tho it could not be proven they could not get an absolvitor, they take the Test, and pay a great deal to Tam Gordon the Clerk, who gets too great a deal of Money, there was one here a Feuar of W. that lives in Salen that was most unjustly summoned here by one Paton for speaking Treason, I spoke to L. M. for D. but none befriended D. or appeared for D. but. F. who did bring D. off. The Treason was only good of W. The other tho the fa­vorit of the Clerk was found a liar, and Iames Oliphant absolved, O but I could write a long Letter to W. who I think happy be others.

Let these News be known to your Scots Friends.

A little Letter written by Argile, all in Cypher, and confounded with Mutes.

32674845254324512641443651404344692837 [...]6545648575352394 456274744294857395053575822535340504852585764545956545357 445768584756484244516921564443575140434428545653545358485 8485352205345445944566 [...]6758474852463251484647585744425956 443941564052436048584753595840415361645847445258534344405 0446048584741 [...]8564247415958485848575253585840504948524660 485043534448586460474058485774405444524443524444435752535 8474852434456415958574753595043455956584744564451.

The said Letter Decyphered.

32 67 If 25 D. 24 M. 26 be 36 made 69 28 37 26 Prison 39 er 27 he 29 is 39 lost 22 to all Intents and Purposes, 68 thrice M. 6921 Reds made 28 Proposition 20 of every 67 thing 32 might secure, 39 Brand without a Box, and then to deal with Birch, but it is not talk­ing will do it, and what is hapened needs not hinder but should fur­ther 'em.

The Letter follows.

I Have received yours 19 instant, with the inclosed, which is indeed sad; yet God guides the World, and all will work to the end he intends, and what he purposes will at length prevail. I had newly read the first Treatise of the big Book you sent me, pray read the last Lines of the 3 d Chapter, Pag. 152 of that Treatise, and if you please some Leaves before, and the 20 that follows, he mistakes the calculations of the numbers of Years, but the matter looks as like our present Circumstances as any such thing can do, if the Party were alive he could say little more: What you writ will make me long to hear again: Our Scribe it seems is an unhappy man: Desire M. B. to buy me B. Vshers Prophecy, which I have seen in Print by it self; and if it be possible to get me a Copy of that little Book you once lent me, wherein is a Speech I copied; he may look for it.

Another adressed to Holms, marked n. 4.

THis Morning I received yours, 15 instant, but can say little till I meet with Mr. Red; only you may be sure, it will not be a small matter will make me desert your Service, and especially no concerns of my own: and none shall be more sparing of your credite that understands the Trade. I doubt not after I have spoke with him, to convince you of what I shall then give you as my opinion, and leave the issue to God Almighty. I am very sensible of all your kindness to me, and of good honest M. L. pray re­turn him my thanks: As for my other Friend that is the life of all, pray tell him I must once see him before I need that you offer to send me, it will be then time enough to dispose of it; and if it be made use of, I hope he shall hear of it to his satisfaction: I perceive by it, he hopes well of me: It made me smile when I read your Letter: When I know that Mr. B. is with you I can write at greater length of all your Affairs. I will now long to hear how the last Parcel of Goods I sent you pleases the Merchants, they were long of coming, but I hope are not yet out of time, and what ever the fault is may be helped in the next Parcel. Adieu.

Haste back. M. B. direct the inclosed by his advice.

Directed. Mr. West, at Mr. Shepneys South-wark Coffee-House in Bartholomew-Lane. London.

Here follows another Letter, marked number 5. direct by Argile to his Lady, of the same date, which was known by Major Holms, t [...] be f [...]r the Count [...]s [...], by a particular mark upon the back of it, which he shew to his [...].

THis is only to tell you that all your Friends here are in health (God be thanked) our news from England are very various and uncertain, and Mr. B. is gone to London, and to return in a Month, or less; I doubt not he will write to you: I have heard nothing from 80, nor 80, 81. these six Months. Adieu.

The Decypher of the said Letter·

THis is only to tell you that all your Friends here are in health (God be thanked) our news from England are very various and uncertain, and Mr. B. is gone to London, and to return in a Month, or less; I doubt not he will write to you: I have heard nothing from L, nor L, M. these six Months.

This is a Letter wherein Argile gives an account to his Confederates in England, of the proceedings of the Kings Ministers in Scotland, thereby endeavouring to disparage them, all written with his own hand.

WEst much way daily at I i [...] with 69415358475944503322 then or 4253514857485352 or a if to 5644693941445057 at in 57|44525844524244 of he cause other to keep and also did 58445240525|357 persons any thing they of any if gave any Mr. M. did thereof knew these and relation 39505360435352 and go he 585644405862 any with any [Page 19] in or 3648525 [...]445642 [...]3 5159524445 he send Air to be 4050405651|4443 Sheils is as done extremities to them knew 3951485248575844 6|57 if 4056 51445 [...]66 others any other and knew to if or to if persons of and imploy 384250445649 person him any thing others say they plea [...]e will to to of money out of him if their now he the 3157 457 52 [...]349 he 233246504057465360 who who of person did or they or any to a here where any arrived the and you are 58 [...]452445 [...]58 you that others conver­sed since write to the was imployed and knew or present kept with go­ing 446950 to the of for the perswade go be for fear found to or above that the 384 [...]485642594858 go 6942 44 [...]7525349 away drawn correspondence 4653 [...]9445651445258 any of 4 [...]051485058 [...]3 2 Mr. the 49485246 [...]7 my or and with at had for of 48 [...]2584456534640 [...]85 [...]|5657 are as pre [...]dent is desirous things given 44 the privat or the if send 50 party person M. to any other and with and or or to 42535956 [...]8|5453565844 5957 effect named disswade the to or money swear 5 [...]|444144 50 [...]85352 any persons and roll to 332246504057465360 any the if any black 6053435738 place meeting the C. and for M. any they Rebels before meeting Stile L. in go what as,

lib. ss. There rests just 32—8.

The Decypher of the foresaid Letter, as it was done in England, with some amendments here, which answered exactly with the middle Alphabet, found out in Scotland.

WEst much may daily at I if with 69 Bothwel 33 22 then or Com­mission or a if to Re- 69 39 bels at in Sentence of he cause other to keep and also did Tennents persons any thing they of any if gave any Mr. M. did thereof knew these and relation 39 London and go he treaty any with any in or 36 intercommuned he send Air to be alarmed Sheilds is as done extremities to them knew 3 [...] Ministers if Arms 60 others any other and knew to if or to if persons of and imploy 38 Clerk person him any thing others say they please will to to of Money out of him if their now he the 31 Cessnock he 23 32 Glasgow who who of person did or they or any to a here where any arrived the and you are Tennent you that others conversed since write to the was imployed and knew or present kept with going E. 69 L. to the of for the perswade go be for fear found to or above that the 38 Circuit go 69 Cesnock away drawn correspon­dence Government any of Hamilton Mr. the Kings my or and with at had for of Interrogators are as President is desirous things given E. the privat or the if send L. Party person M. to any other and with and or or to Court Porteous effect named diswade the to or Money swear Rebellion any persons and Roll to 33 22 Glasgow any the if any Blackwoods 38 place meeting the C. and for M. any they Rebels before meetings Stile L. in go what as.

lib. ss. There rests just 32—8

The Copy of the said Letter, as it was given in upon Oath by Mr. Spence.

WEst-shields is arrived, the President is as much alarmed as any, and as desirous what may be done where you are; things go dai­ly to extremities; here are Interrogators given in at Air to a Tennent of E. L. I send them to you for the Stile: If he knew any that had private Meetings with Intercommun'd Ministers, or others, at, or before Bothwel, or if they conversed with the Rebels then in Arms, or since; and if they, or any others did write, or send any Commission with any person, to my L. M. or any other of the King's Party for a Treaty, and who was the person, and if he knew who imployed Mr. M. C. to go to Glasgow and Hamilton to the Rebels, and if he knew of any meeting at Lowdon, or Cesnock, or any other place in relation to the present Government, and Blackwoods Sentence, and if he kept correspondence with any of these per­sons now with-drawn, and if he knew of their going away, or the cause thereof, and if E. L. Cesnock, or any other did imploy him to go to Glas­gow to Mr. M. Clerk of the Circuit Court, to keep any person out of the Porteous Roll, and gave him Money for that effect; and also, if any of the above-named persons did any thing to perswade, or disswade any Ten­nents of others to go to the Rebellion, Persons they say will be found to swear any thing they please, for Fear, or Money.

The long Letter written with Argiles own hand, which was address'd to Major Holms, and marked Number 3.

THo I cannot by this Post send you a full account of your affairs, yet I send you as much as may make you take measures what Bills to draw upon me, which I hope you will fully understand by Mr Bs. help; the whole account amounted to several Pages; but I only give you one to total, as sufficient.

I gone so I and refuse object first you time much is way the our would of altogether concerned do upon absolutely do to do effectually as that it be to is at all be 335759424244575769 money 36 47575657 of and to 69224736535657 and they have is at be that no some their 2345535958, &c. 50000 4548464758 part as against the but concurrence from be less nor like place and interest is small and power against need do bring which Birch that cannot time are out upon an 324753235657 to 5644425659|4858444367 projected meat very may little done the been Purse I to shall my lists [...] to great venture they prospect provided have can willing God given conference week Brown I of things said some the now their my head guard mention 324344675748465257 things which to your hope some ago as over some if do spoke for of know and encouragement confer have and self be order resolve and to reckoning all and undertake honest or was far be Shooes undertaking many of to for purchase was as is the a pos­sibly us of by force it tho so how the credite for time Birch and some great­est them concerned will for and to and 404843 station good may only the if more will if should expect tollerably standing and by and necessar the the more the hazarded to it 8 and think urge so necessar I the that so af­fairs have business very I possible of I send here against my till what little upon know not which money 25405748575840524244 I service any what shall resolve thee at did least effectually thought and far if business reckon­ed for still the there I or stuck you upon money by first sum if then Bills 26 435640465359525769455356424457 well that 3841444058 5159|50584858594357 need trouble something very a frighten the probably not 2000 the tho the once for and 575942 4244575735 will 4057 57|48575840524244 and to money could foolish Browne many the not to Gods Brand besides stay Iob seat yet to proposed 322240565157 a deal the things as all once less any drink well on know I as pay whether never the re­ceived to any calculate about to that that the such with you I other I I for considerable be particular add I are of lest I but all have it Enemies to can­not to Friends made part I write wish may be service Mr. an whole there consider persons it when knowing any and payments to I it low shall little little meaning Intelligence thing out had which Tents usual whole with 673151485048584840 and by the more of if but the that blessing raise a 54565358445758405258 4753565744 can Virgins supply to call 4856|50405243 not keep imaginable tho them 4853485244 standing many num­ber 25 4753565733 only at standing a 5159505848585943 first consi­derable with more can them Countrey 425351514052434443 in and there 40565157 it was Weeks half I so to at 600 think needs precise I the the it a within what requisite not Sum truly this grounds to say Mr. thing nor know they as hath the grounds occasioned I they both do is Red only let I distance in I half in I the little would 4057485758405242 first shall number very 1000 and the consider small confess them work propo­sed please cannot are 2000 Brand it 544453545044 the be 40565157 then be 40544440564852464640584744564443 little 455356424457 [Page 22] 5758445650485244 have the but it will 455356574457 and as we yet together only it for buy it consider imploy better Interest small so to some 47535657 a future the to total the absolute of and designed and Wagons are but of proposed or and because what add as out meddle touch of I know­ing Merchant there it that what is 40454 04856444058 [...]4515458 Red I not but I of expect of up I enforce at be that should a is in considerable put I done this all have by the not to had before able will I if and a they have will is for 5753504348535956 shall necessars the or of if is is they very incident for the dayly not Cloaths necessar to there the necessar best of the 60405639 events little to hope 564454564457 many Sum were for so in we them more will in and it had any many yet be may all 5148504858|4840 and will it without and not but more got triple on is very 4553|5959 now be God and but is what a if odds it as near named not brush of not less power proposed an of thought my and go you in or resolved so I intend hear them our 45564844524357 to neither to will much till any the know on in proposition could what other I of could be the and be but that easie were I all differ was absolutely soon more to sent above at well right foot their together Provisions the suddenly that 404258485352 will take will of the be unwilling the will can at is get Brand not 40565157 no should the much their not and men the are be while do to advantage the husbanding for number is be for 5747534457 only to whole Provisions Charges good can to I I my meddle Money as freely for the and be es [...]ates do project all after see be I it such you all 47535657 the yet I distance to dare them direction Gods hands in on not prevent and have some help may from a a be pray very I I Necessars and that to a occasion prices the submit they but not own had made be do men some of Sum be necessar 47535657 such bestowed nothing they one it Money of Brand not to sent engaged whole with a concerned own Money next prove Money far then but some impossible first be be most to of 4744564858535657 20000 to up do tho there done case and yet number without hard appointed left 1200 like give will after necessar proposed as should leave hard had number I peremptor I 673347535657 stood possibly those thought juncture I do mention this as as mean other I as neither give know offer have Adieu.

Gil. St. The total Sum is 128 8. which will be payed to you by Mr. B.

The Decypher of the said Letter as it was done in England, with some amend­ments since, which answers exactly with the middle Alphabet found out in Scotland.

THo I cannot by this Post send you a full account of your Affairs, yet I send you as much as may make you take measures what Bills to draw upon me, which I hope you will fully understand by Mr. B's help; the whole account amounted to several Pages; but I only give you one to total as sufficient.

[Page 23]I gone so I and refuse object first you time much is way the our would of altogether concerned do upon absolutely do to do effectua [...]ly as that it be to is at all be 33 success 69 Money 36 Horse of and to 69 2 H 36 orse and they have is at be that no some there 23 Foot &c 50000 sight part as against the but concurrence from be less nor like place and interest is small and power against need do bring which Birch that cannot time are out upon an 32 Ho 23 rse to recruited projected Meat very may little done the been pur [...]e I to shal my lists I to great venture they prospect provided have can willing God given conference week Brown I of things said some the now there my Head guard mention 32 de 67 signs things which to your hope some ago as over some if do spoke for of know and encouragement con [...]e [...] have and felt be order resolve and to reckoning all and undertake honest or was far be Shoes und [...]rtaking many of to for purchase was as is the a possibly us of by force it tho so how the credit for time Birch and some greatest them concerned will for and to and aid station good may only the if more will if should expect tollerably standing and by and necessar the the more the haz­arded to it 8 and think urge so necessar I the that so affairs have business very I possible of I send hear against my till what little upon know not which Money 25 Assistance I service any what shall resolve the at did least effectu­ally thought and far if business reckoned for still the there I or stuck you upon Money by first Sum if then Bills 20 Dragoon [...] 69 Forces well that 38. beat Multitudes need trouble something very a frighten the probably not 2000 the tho the once for and success 35 will assistance and to Money could foolish Browne many the not to Gods Brand besides stay job seat yet to pro­posed 32 22 Arms a deal the things as all once less any drink well on know I as pay whether never the received to any calculate about to that that the such with you I other I [...] for considerable be particular add I are o [...] lest I but all have it Enemies to cannot to an account to Friends made part I write wish may be service Mr. an whole there consider persons it when knowing any and payment to I it lo [...] shall little little meaning intelligence thing out had which Tents usual whole with 67 31 Militia and by the more of it but the that blessing raise a Protestant Horse can Virgins supply to call Ireland not keep imaginable tho them joyn standing many number horse only at standing a multitude first considerable with more can them Countrey comman­ded in and there Arms it was Weeks half I so to at 600 think needs precise I the the it a within what requisite not sum truly this g [...]ounds to say Mr. thing nor know they as hath the grounds occasioned I they noth do is Red only let I distance in I half in I the little would assistance first shall number very 1000 and the consider small con [...]ess then work proposed please cannot are 2000 Brand it pe [...]ple the [...]e Arms them [...]e appearing gathered little Forces Stirling have the but it will Forces and as we yet togethe [...] only it for buy it consider imploy better interest small so to some Horse a future the to total the abso­lute of and design'd and Wagons ar [...] but of proposed or and because what add as out meddle touch of I knowing Merchant there it that what is af­fair attempt Red I not but I of expect of up I enforce at be that should a is in con [...]erable put I done this all have by the not to had before able will I if and a they have will is for Souldier shall necessars the or of if is is they very incident for the daily not Cloaths necessar to their the necessar best of the War 39 events little to hope repress many sum were for so in we them more will in and it had any many yet be may all Militia and will it without and not but more got triple on is very Foot now be God and but is what a if odds it as near named not Brush of not less power proposed an of thought my and go you in or resolved so I intend hear them our friends to neither to will much till any the know on in proposition could what other I of could be the and be but that easie were I all differ was absolutely soon more to sent above at well right foot their together provisions the suddenly that action will take will of the be unwilling the will can at is get Brand not Arms no [Page 24] should the much there not and Men the are be while do to advantage the Husbanding for number is be for Shoes only to whole provisions charges good can to II my meddle money as freely for the an be Estates do project all after see be I it such you all Horse the yet I distance to dar them directi­on Gods hands in on not prevent and have some help may from a a be pray very II necessars and that to a occasion prices the submit they but not own had made be do Men some of sum be necessar Horse such bestowed nothing they one it money of Brand not to sent engaged whole with a concerned own money next prove money far then but some impossible first be be most to of Heretors 20000 to up do tho there done case and yet number without hard appointed least 1200 like give will after necessar proposed as should leave hard had number I peremptor J 67 33 Horse stood possibly those thought Juncture I do mention this as as mean other I as neither give know offer have. Adieu.

Gil. St. The total Sum is 128—8. which will be payed to you by Mr. B.

The Copy of the said Letter, as it was given in by Mr. Spence, according to the plain Sense thereof, without the Preface or Postscript, being set down al­ready with the Cypher and Decypher.

I Know not the grounds our Friends have gone upon, which hath occasi­oned them to offer so little Mony as I hear, neither know I what Assist­ance they they intend to give; and till I know both, I will neither refuse my service, nor do so much as object against any thing is resolved, till I first hear what Mr. Carstares. Red, or any other you send shall say; only in the mean time I resolve to let you know as much of the Grounds I go on, as is possible at this distance, and in this way. I did truly in my Proposition mention the very least Sum, I thought could do our Business effectually, not half of what I would have thought requisite in an other juncture of Affairs; and what I proposed I thought altogether so far within the power of those concerned, that if a little less could possibly do the Business, it would not be stood upon: I reckoned the assistance of the Horse absolutly necessar for the first Brush, and I do so still: I shall not be peremptor to urge the precise number named, but I do think there needs very near that number effectually; and I think 1000 as easie had as 8 or 600 and it were hard that it stuck at the odds. I leave it to you to consider if all should be hazarded, upon so small a dif­fer. As to the Money, I confess what was proposed, is more by half then is absolutely necessar at the first Weeks work, but soon after all the Sum was proposed, and more will be necessar, if it please God to give success; and then Arms cannot be sent like Money by Bills: There are now above 1200 Horse and Dragoons, and 2000 Foot at least of standing Forces in Scotland. Brand, very well appointed and tollerably well commanded, it is right hard to expect that Countrey People on Foot, without Horse; should beat them the triple their number; and if multitudes can be got together, yet

[Page 25] they will need more Arms, more Provision, and have more trouble with them; but the Case is, if something considerable be not suddenly done, at at the very first appearing, and that there be only a multitude gathered with­out action, tho that may frighten a little, it will do no good, the standing Forces will take up some station, probably at Stirling, and will to their aid, not only have the Militia of 20000. Foot, and 2000. Horse, but all the He­retors, &c. to the number, it may be of 50000. and tho many will be unwil­ling to sight for the standing Forces, yet the most part will once joyn, and many will be as concerned for them, as any can be against them; and tho we had at first the greatest success imaginable, yet it is impossible but some will keep together, and get some concurrence and assistance, not only in Scotland. Brand, but from England. Birch, and Ireland; it will not then be time to call for more Arms, far less for Money to buy them, no money nor Credit could supply it, we should prove like the foolish Virgins: Consider in the next place how Dissenting Lords. Browne can imploy so much Money, and so many Horse, better for their own interest, tho the Protestant Interst were not concerned; is it not a small Sum, and a small Force, to raise so many men with, and by Gods blessing to repress the whole Power of Brand, that some hope are engaged against us, besides the Horse to be sent, need possibly stay but a little while to do a Job, if future events do not bring the seat of the War to Brand, which is yet more to the advantage of Birch, as to the total of the Money that was propos'd by the best Husbanding it, cannot purchase Arms, and absolute necessars for one time, for a Militia of the number they are to deal with, and there is no­thing out of the whole design'd to be bestowed upon many things usual, and necessar for such an Undertaking, as Tents, Waggons, Cloathes, Shoes, Horse, Horse-shoes; all which are not only necessar to be once had, but dayly to be recruited, far less out of the whole sum projected, was any thing proposed for Provisions of Meat or Drink, Intelligence, or incident Charges, some very honest, well-meaning, and very good Men, may un­dertake on little, because they can do little, and know little what is to be done. All I shall add is, I made the Reckoning as low as if I had been to pay it out of my own Purse; and whether I meddle or meddle not, I resolve never to touch the Money, but to order the payment of Necessars, as they shall be received; and I shall freely submit my self to any knowing Souldier for the Lists, and any knowing Merchant; for the Prices I have calculate, when there is an occasion to confer about it, it will be a great encouragment to per­sons that have Estates to venture, and that consider what they do, that they know that there is a project, and prospect of the whole Affair, and all Necessars provided for such an attempt, if after I have spoke with Mr. Carstares. Red, I see I can do you Service, I will be very willing; if I be not able, I pray God some other may; but before it be given over, I wish I had such a conference as I write of to you a Week ago, for I expect not all from Dissenting Lords. Browne, some considerable part of the Horse may I hope be made up by the help of your particular friends. I have yet some things to add, to enforce all I have said, which I cannot at this distance, and some things are to be done to pre­vent the designs of Enemies, that I dare not now mention, lest it should put them on their guard. I have a considerable direction in my head, but all is in God hands.

Part of Spence his Deposition. At the Castle of Edinburgh, the 19 of August, 1684.

MR. William Spence, of the Age 33 Years, or thereby, not married, solemnly sworn, Depons, That in the Paper subscribed by him, the Letter dated 21 Iune, and the other without date, marked A, are writ­ten plain, and in the true Sense, so far as his knowledge reaches, and that he had no Key to open the Letters with, but the Alphabetical Cypher: That by the 128 Gilders, 8 Stivers, mentioned in the end of the long Letter, he understands that it is the Key thereof; and by the payment of the same, he understands the way of using it. That he does truly believe there was an Insurrection intended, within these two Years; and as for what is to come, he cannot tell what the People abroad may be doing: That he had often heard of Designs and Associations; but that they were directly intended to hinder the Duke his Succession to the Crown, he cannot say: For all that he understood was pretended for the ground of any designs of Arms, was the defence of the Protestant Religion, the Liberties of the King­dom; and if against the Duke, his Succession only, in so far as that might be prejudicial to these: and that he thinks upon the Kings death Troubles may probably arise: That Mr. West to whom the Letters were directed, was not one of that name, but Major Holms to the best of his knowledge: And this is the Truth as he shall answer to God. Sic subscribitur

HIS Majesties Advocat produced an Act, and Warrand from the Lords of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council, for pursu­ing, and insisting against the said Mr. Robert Baillie of Ierviswood, where­of the Tenor follows: Edinburgh, The twenty two day of December, one thousand six hundred and eighty four years. The Lords of his Majesties Privy Council, do hereby give Order and Warrand to His Majesties Advo­cat, to pursue a Process of Treason and Forfaulture, before the Lords of His Majesties Justiciary, against Mr. Robert Baillie of Ierviswood, to mor­row at two a clock in the afternoon preceisly, and the said Lords do hereby Require and Command, Sr. George Lockhart of Carnwath, and Sr. Iohn Lauder Advocats, to concur, and assist in the said Process with His Ma­jesties Advocat, from the intenting until the end thereof, as they will be answerable upon their alledgance. Extract by me, sic subscribitur.

• Sir George Mckenzie of Roshaugh Our Soveraign Lords Advo­cat
• Sir George Lockhart Advocat.
• Sir Iohn Lauder. Advocat.

• Sir Patrick Hume.
• Mr. Walter Pringle.
• Mr. Iames Graham.
• Mr. William Fletcher.
• Mr. William Baillie. Advocats.

THE Pannals Procurators produced ane Act of His Majesties Privy Council, in their favours, whereof the Tenor follows: Edinburgh, the twenty third of December, one thousand six hundred eighty four years, The Lords of His Majesties Privy Council having considered ane Address made to them, by Mr. Robert Baillie of Ierviswood, now indited at the in­stance of His Majesties Advocat; before the Lords Commissioners of Justi­ciary, of Treason, do hereby Require and Command Sir Patrick Hume, Mr. Walter Pringle, Mr. Iames Graham, Mr. William Fletcher, Mr. Iames Falconer, Mr. William Baillie Advocats, to Consult, Compear, and De­bate for the Petitioner, in the Process of Treason, mentioned in his Ad­dress, without any hazard, as they will be answerable at their peril; Ex­tract by me, sic subscribitur.

WAlter Earl of Tarras, aged fourty years, married, purged, and sworn; being Interrogat, if about the time that Sir Iohn Cochran, and Commissar Monro got their Commission from the Carolina Company for London, the Pannal Mr. Robert Baillie of Ierviswood did not desire the Deponent to speak to Commissar Monro, to try if he could get him the [...]aid Pannal added to that Commission, Depones affirmative. Being Interro [...]at, if the said Ierviswood, the Pannal, did not tell the Deponent that he was resolved to go to London however upon his own Expenses, and that his and their going about the Carolina Bussiness, was but a pretence, and a blind; but that the true design was, to push foreward the people of England who could do nothing but talk, to go more effectually about their bussi­ness, Depones affirmative. Depones that the Pannal did settle a Corre­spondence [Page 41] with the Deponent whereby he was to give an account to the Deponent of what should pass betwixt the Countrey Party in England, and the Scots men there: and on the other hand, the Deponent was to Write to him what occurred here; Depones that the Pannal did say to the Deponent, if the King would suffer the Parliament of England to sit, and pass the Bill of Seclusion, that that was the only way to secure the Prote­stant Religion. Depones that the Pannal said to him, that the King might be induced to do so, if the Parliament would take sharp or brisk measures with Him, or the like. Depones these words were spoke to him by the Pannal▪ since the holding of the last Session of this current Parliament; and before the Pannal and Commissar Monro went for London. Depons that after the Pannal went to London, he did give the Deponent an account by Letters, that things were in great Disorder there, and that he hoped there would be effectual Courses taken to remeid them. Depones that Mr. Robert Martin did come to Mr. Pringle of Torwoodlies House in May 1683. or thereby, and brought a Letter to the Deponents Lady unsubscribed, but the Deponent knows it was Ierviswoods Hand-writing, who was then at London, and that Mr. Martin told the Deponent, that things in England were in great disorder, and like to come to a hight, and that the Countrey Party were considering on methods for securing the Protestant Religion. And that Archibald, sometime Earl of Argile, was to get ten thousand pounds Sterling, whereas thirty thousand pounds Sterling was sought by the Scots­men at London, which was to be sent over to Holland to provide Arms; and that the late Earl of Argile was to Land with these Armes in the West-Highlands of Scotland, and that the Deponents Friend Ierviswood the Pan­nal, was to be sent over with the Money. Depones that Philiphaugh and he went to Gallowshiels House, where they met with Polwort and Gallowshiels, and that it was talked amongst them there, that in case those in England should rise in Arms, that it was necessary in that Case, that so many as could be got on the Borders should be in readiness to deal with Straglers and seize upon Horses, and that thereafter they should joyn with those t [...]at were in Arms on the Borders of England. Depons That in the case fore­said, it was said, it was convenient the Castle of Stirling, Berwick, and some other Strengths should be seiz'd upon; and it was likewise spoke amongst them, that some persons should be employed to inquire what Arms was in that Countrey. Depons, That it was spoke then, that the best time for Argyle was to land in the West when there was a stur in England, or Scotland, or words to that purpose. Depons, That every one desired another to speak to such particular persons as they could trust, by letting a word fall indirectly upon supposition, in case of the Rising in England concerning the Affair for preparing of them: And that he was told by Philiphaugh thereafter, that there was a Word and Sign to be used amongst them, viz. the sign was by loosing a Button on the Breast, and that the Word was Harmony. Depons, the Pannal spoke to the Deponent to ad­vertise Torwoodlie, that he might acquaint Mr. William Veitch a forfault Traitor, who was in Northumberland, that he might keep himself close, and be on his guard, lest he should be catch'd; which was since the Pan­nal was Prisoner in the Tolbooth of Edinburgh. And this is the truth, as he shall answer to God. Sic subscribitur,

ALexander Monro of Bear-crofts, Aged fourty five Years, or thereby; solutus, solemnly sworn and purg'd. Depons, that the Earl of Tar­ras proposed to the Deponent, that Ierviswood might be made one of the Commissioners for the Affair of Carolina, for that he could not safely stay at Home; and that the Deponents answer was that he had no interest in the Affair, and so could not be a Commissioner. Depons, that the Pannal did [Page 42] wait for the Deponent at Wooller, and did go alongst with him to London, and that by the way he heard him regrate his own hazard and others, be­cause of Blackwoods Sentence; and that he heard him regrate the hazard our Laws, and Liberties, and the Protestant Religion were in. Depons, that the Pannal spoke to the Deponent and others, more then once at London for getting of Money from the English to be sent to the late Earl of Argile, for bringing home Arms for the said Earls use, as he understood, for carrying on an Insurrection, and Rebellion in Scotland. Depons, that at the time libelled, in Ierviswoods Chamber in London, Mr. William Veitch a forfault Traitor was present; and that Sir Iohn Cochran did at that Meeting expressly speak of Money to be sent to Argile for bringing home Arms for invading the Kingdom of Scotland; And that at another occa­sion he heard some of them say, that there would be twenty Thousand Men in Scotland who would assist the Rebellion, and that he heard Sir Iohn Cochran and Ierviswood speaking of it, but cannot be positive which of the two said it. Depons, that at the Meeting he heard Ierviswood speak, but did not hear him oppose that Treasonable Proposal, or contradict the Overture proposed by Sir Iohn Cochran. Depons, that Mr. Robert Mar­tin was sent down from that Meeting which was at Ierviswoods Chamber, to Scotland, to try what the People of Scotland would do for their own safety: And that it was understood that the people of Scotland should not rise till there should be a rising in England, and that the Commission was granted to Mr. Robert Martin by all the persons present, whereof Iervis­wood was one, and that there were present the Lord Melvill, Sir Iohn Cochran, Cessnocks elder and younger, Mr. William Carstares, Mr. William Veitch, Ierviswood, and the Deponent; and depons they did contribute Money for Mr. Martins Journey. Depons, that at his return he meeting with the Deponent, told him, that Matters were in that condition in Scotland, and that the Countrey was in such a condition as little would kindle the Fire in order to the Rebellion. And this is the truth, as he shall answer to God. Sic subscribitur,

JAmes Murray of Philiphaugh, aged 30. Years, married, purged and sworn, produces [...]our Leaves of Depositions, emitted by him before the Lords of the Secret Committie, and all Written and Subscribed with his own hand, which being publickly read, in presence of the Justices, and Assize, he adheres thereto, in all points, whereof the Tenot follows. Up­on the day of May, 1683. Upon a letter from Mr. Pringle of Tor­woodlie, I came to his house in the morning, and he presently led me to a Chamber, where I found Mr Robert Martin, who was lately come from London, with whom we stayed a little, and discoursed of the news, and about the present condition, and temper of England, and in particular of London, which Mr. Martin said, was much irritated through some attemps upon their Priviledges, either as to the concern of the Sheriffs, or their Charter, but that all honest men were of good heart and very brisk, and after some general discourses to this purpose, Torwoodlie, and I left him▪ and walked out a little, and he told me, he was expecting the E. of Tarras pre­sently, for he had sent to him; and Mr. Martin had a Letter to him from Ierviswood, then he told me that there were great matters in agitation at London, and that Mr. Martin had come down with a Commission from our friends there, (I do not remember he named any) but that I behoved not to expect, he would impart his Instructions to me, for he was to commu­nicat them only to Polwart and himself, (at least for these Shyres) and they were to pitch on such as they thought fit to intrust with the affair, whereupon he assured me, that he had great confidence in me, and his kindness to me ob­lidged him to send for me, to acquaint me that matters were now come to a [Page 43] crisis, and that he had reason to think England would shortly draw to Arms, and stand by them, till they were satisfied anent the Bill of Exclusion, and what other security they could propose for the Protestant Religion, and their Liberties, and that it was no project of any inconsiderable par­ty but a design through the Kingdom, and that many of the finest men, and of the greatest interest and credit there, had adjusted almost every thing necessar for the purpose, and had concerted matters with our Friends there, in order to concurrence from this, and had agreed to advance Money for furnishing Arms here, (I do not remember he told me more particulars at this time) but said, Polwart would be at Gallow-shiels that night, and it would be necessar that the E. of Tarras and I should confer with him fully, on the business, about this time the E. of Tarras lighted, and Torwoodlie having left us for a little time, being gone to bring Mr. Mar­tin; the E. of Tarras asked me, what news, I told him of Mr. Martins being there, but that he had given me no account of the design of his down-coming, which perhaps he would acquaint him with, but by what I had heard from Torwoodlie, I understood it to be, to engadge us to rise in Arms shortly, whereat the E. of Tarras hummed, and said, he would look ere he leapt, such a leap, or some such expressions, presently Mr. Martin came, and the E. of Tarras and he retired a little, after the reading An Letter, he gave him, the Contents whereof was (as the E. of Tarras informed me) only an order from Ierviswood, to deliver some Money to the bearer, which he had left with him, and the E. of Tarras called for his Servant, and bad him bring up the Money; in the mean time, Tor­woodlie asked me, if I had acquainted the E. of Tarras with what he spoke to me, and I told him, I had let something of it fall to him, but it was not to be thought, that persons of sense and quality would engadge in such designs at random; so Torwoodlie said, that (though Mr. Martin would not commune with us upon his Commission directly) yet he thought it would be fit, we conferred, and without taking notice of his Commission, discoursed of things upon suppositions, and as our own privat notions▪ abstract from any prospect of a present design, so after dinner, we four went to a Chamber, and after some general discourses, of the discontents of both Kingdoms, these suppositions following were discoursed (and as I remember) Mr. Martin started them all, or the most part) viz. What if the countrey party in England should have thoughts of going to Arms (whereof he knew nothing but only supposed such a thing, for discoursing a little freely, and to know our sentiments, what we thought could be ex­pected here in such a case) would it not be expedient to have a settled Correspondence betwixt that Party there and here, and might not mat­ters be so adjusted, that both Kingdoms should draw out in one day, and might not as many be expected to undertake in these Shires, and about Edinburgh, as would serve to surprize, and seize our Rulers (I do not re­member any named, but the then Chancellour and Treasurer) and some to joyn with these on the English borders, to assist them to surprize Berwick; and if for that effect, any Horse, or Dragoons, that should be in the bounds might not be surprized, that their Horse and Arms might be got­ten to furnish the Country people, and Stirling Castle; and if Argile should at the same time Land in the West, and raise that Countrey, would not these Measures contribute much to the advancement and security of the Interest of that Party here, since thereby the Government would be dis­ordered, and such steps would encourage all that had an inclination to the Countrey Party, to draw to them frankly, and scar many of the other side to act against them, and so they might have leasure to joyn from all places; and might it not be expected, there would be as many in this Kingdom, as would be able to deal with the Forces here, at least divert them from troubling England. This is the sum, as I remember, of what [Page 44] was proposed, and discourst of, though I cannot distinctly say, it was in this method, and expression, nor was all moved at once, but droped now and then, as the Discourse seem'd to give rise to it; and though I cannot fully Re [...]count all that was spoke on these Heads, and tell distinctly, what this and that man said; yet I remember these following Answers were giving, and (as I judged) acquiesced to by the whole Company; and they were certainly the E. of Tarras, his sentiments and mine, and every one that spoke, used this or some such Precaution, that if they were concerned, or to give counsel in any such case, (as they were not, &c.) 1. As to the settling a Correspondence, it was confest to be very convenient for those of a common Interest; but the present circumstances of Affairs were such (as we thought,) that none could be found here who was fit to mannage it, and would undertake it. 2. As to the trysting at the same time, it could not be done without the devulging the Design to all Ranks of peo­ple, which none would undertake, except these already in desperat Cir­cumstances, and they could not have generally much influence. 3. The thing was not at all adviseable for this Kingdom, since if any of Englands own measures miscarried, they would not stur for any such Trust; and the spring of their motions being always at London, there might happen an interruption near the appointment, whereof these here could have no ti­mous notice, and so might keep Tryst, whereby they would be exposed a prey; and if they should subsist any time, or prevail (which was hardly possible) the multitude that must be imployed, are tainted with such wild and unruly Principles, that if once they got the Sword in their Hands, they would never be brought to Order without a greater force to over­awe them; neither would any expectation of Argiles Landing, be a just ground for such a Tryst, considering the uncertainty of Sea-Voyages; and if Argile were to be the Head, undoubtedly many people would conclude that he were to be suspected of private designs, and that restoring him, might lay him aside: As also, that dispair might blind his usual prudence, and prompt him to unsolid, and undigested Methods; and so it was to be expected, that few of the Gentry (except such as he had special influence on, or such as were under hard Circumstances) could embarque with him. 4. As to the surprising Rulers, &c. It was inveigh'd against, as an Acti­on not to be thought of amongst Protestants (especially when the very design of it was pretended, to secure that Religion, which taught its Pro­fessors to abhor and detest such Principles as Popish, yea un-christian) since it could not be effectuat without Blood-shed of people, secure in Peace, which being by all approven, Divines and Casuists condemned as unlawful, and meer Assassination; it was not to be doubted, that as such a practice would cast a blot upon the whole Affair, and quite take off any pretence of Defensive Arms, so it would scar many from joyning. These things were reasoned again and again: But I do not remember there was any for­mal Conclusion made, but the Discourse was let fall; and Mr. Martin told us, if any of us had a mind for a suit of Armour, he could provide as many as we pleased, from one who had made a great many lately, to honest men at London, of a new fashion, very light, and at an easie Rate; so Torwoodlie and I gave him our measures, E. of Tarras told he had a suit already; Then Torwoodlie said to the E. of Tarras and me, we would meet Polwort at Gal­lowsheils, and desired we might Commun with him, anent what we had been Discoursing, so we hasted away, that if possible, we might both get home that Night, it being Saturnday, and we unfurnished, for staying a­broad, and Torwoodlie whispered me just as I was mounting (as I think) that he was not clear we should commun before Gallowshiels, for he was sometimes too much Good-fellow, or the like; so the E. of Tarras and I Rod away together, and upon the way we were both of Opinion, that the Suppositions we had discoursed of, were in effect Propositions, and resolv'd, [Page 45] if they were insisted on by Polwort, as we suspected, we would adhere to the former Answer, and would undertake nothing in these methods; When we came to Gallowsheils, the Laird was abroad, and Polwort was not come, so we had thoughts to go away, being both damped with what had passed, and inclining to be free of farder medling; but the Lady would by no means hear of our going till her Husband came, who, she assured us, was about the Doors, and she having sent to call him, he would be in presently; yet it was so late ere he came, that the E. of Tarras could hard­ly have day enough to go home with; so Gallowsheils would not let him go, and he would not stay, unless I stay'd, so we both stayed, and not being resolv'd to Discourse with Gallowsheils on what passed, we we it to the Tavern, on pretence I might call the Baillie, and seek Horses or Lime, and stay'd there till Polwort came (which seemed unknown to Gal­lowsheils) then we returned to Gallowsheils House, and after Supper Polwort whispered the E. of Tarras and me, and enquired if we had seen Mr. Martin; and we having told him we had, he enquired, if we were free to commun on the Affair before Gallowsheils, we told, as he thought fit, for we could trust him; Then he whispered Gallowsheils, and (as I under­stood afterwards) asked if he was free to commune on matters of great Secrecy and importance with that Company, to which he assented, then we sat down closs together, and as I remember▪ Polwort began the Dis­course; But since I am not able to follow exactly the method of our Con­ference, or keep the very expressions used, or repeat all that was spoke, or to tell distinctly what was every mans part of the Discourse; I shall set down the Heads, and most remarkable Passages thereof, that I remember in some Articles following; 1. Polwort signified that he was credibly in­formed (but I do not remember he named his Informer) that the Coun­trey party in England would draw to the Fields shortly, as he heard before Lambass, wherewith Gallowsheils seem'd visibly surprized; and being ask­ed, if his Heart fail'd him already, he said he did love it better truly to be walking in his own Parks in Peace, and quiet, than to be medling in such matters; however he assured the Company, that if there came any troublesome world, he would joyn with them firmly; and the E. of Tar­ras said, he wondred to hear of any such Resolution in England, for he took it for a Principle amongst that Party there, that they should make no stir in the Kings Life (which the whole Company owned to be their O­pinion and desire) because that might strengthen the Dukes interest; and he suspected it was the project of the Common-wealths men, with whom he believed, few Scots Gentlemen would joyn; and he was almost per­swaded the D. of Monmouth would not concur in any rising during the Kings Life, To which it was answered by Polwort, that he had indeed heard that principle had been generally agreed to, but it seem'd they found, they behoved either to do their business now, or lay aside hopes of doing it hereafter, which might be, that if the Charter of London were let fall, they would not only lose all safe opportunity of digesting Mat­ters; but a great part of their strength, and he heard all things were con­certed mutually, betwixt Monmouths Friends and the Heads of the Com­monwealth Party; and tho he heard Monmouth was shy on that account, yet it was hop'd he would engage, for otherways he would be deserted by that Party. 2. Polwort told us the suppositions above-written as over­tures concerted betwixt our friends at London, and the principal men of that Party there; so the E of Tarras and I renewed our former answers also above-written, and maintained them with all our vigour, wherein Gallowsheils joyned forwardly with us; and Polwort asserted, we went on very good grounds, and he was fully of our opinion, if things were entire but referr'd it to be considered, whether it were better to comply with some of these methods, tho not so proper and justifiable as were to be [Page 46] wish'd, then to disappoint the business totally, which might be of the best consequence to all the Party, yet we did not condescend as I remember to undertake any of these methods. And there was a further argument ad­duced against the trysting above-written, viz. That it was talked there was a day appointed in England latly in Shaftsberry's time, which did not hold, so they were not to be relyed upon. 3. It was proposed to be con­sidered what methods were most proper in the Companies opinion for Scot­land to follow in case of Englands rising, whereanent it was said, that all that could be expected or desired from Scotland, was, that upon the cer­tain News of Englands being in the Fields, those in the Southern Shires who would own that Party, should presently rise, and (how soon they could get as many conven'd as would be able to deal with stragling Parties, or any sudden rising in the Countrey) march to joyn them, and that it would be fit these in the Northern Shires of England waited near the Borders for such, and that they had Officers trysted there to command, and that then it would be seasonable for Argile to land in the West, and these Parties on the Borders might divert the Forces till he had time to put himself in a posture. These things seem'd to be the sentiments of the whole Company, but were not finally determined till the opinion of others who were to be communed with by Polwort were known: And it was represented, there behoved not to be any wilful and obstinate adhe­ring to our own thoughts of things, (but an mutual condescendance to o­thers concerned,) otherwise it were not possible to bring a publick Design to any good issue. 4. All the Company seem'd to agree, that they should undertake nothing or move in that Affair, till they had a full and certain account what England proposed, what methods they resolved to follow there, who were to be their Heads, and that if they design'd any attempt on the Kings Person, or overturning Monarchy, they would not be for­ward or clear to joyn: And it being here insinuated, that the most they could do (at least for which there could be any plausible pretence to justi­fie) was to draw together, and without any act of Hostility, send Ad­dresses to His Majesty for redress of the present abuses of the Government, and for obtaining sufficient security against the hazard they apprehended to their Religion and Liberties. It was said by Polwort that he was apt to think, that was their very design, for he had heard it was generally be­lieved by that Party in England, that if once they were in a Body, the King would be prevailed with to quite the Duke, to be tryed for Po­pery, correspondence with France, and accession to the Popish Plot, and then if the King were once free from the influence of the Dukes Counsels, they were confident he might be moved to reform their Abuses, and se­cure their Religion and Liberties for the future to their contentment. 5. It was resolved, that till we got the foresaid account from England, and were satisfied thereanent, and knew others here (who were to be com­muned with) their Sentiements of what methods were most proper for us, in case we should undertake, we should not meddle further; only it was left to the Earl of Tarras and me, if we thought fit to acquaint Sir William Scot younger with some of the matter of this Conference overly, without taking notice of our Informers, or such an Conference; and it was re­commended to all to be enquiring (at such as they had some trust in) in­directly about the affection of our Neighbours, and what Arms there was amongst them; that if we should get an satisfying account, and resolve to joyn, we might know where to seek Men and Arms suddenly: here it was said by Polwort, as I think, that if the E. of Tarras, Torwoodlie, Gallow­sheils, and I once took Horse, he thought the most part of the West end of Tiviotdale and Selkirk Shire would soon come to us, especially, when they heard England was risen, then we trysted to meet there against Mid­summer Fair, betwixt and which the forsaid account was expected, but in [Page 47] case it came to any of our hands sooner, we promised to advertise the rest, that we might meet, presently, if the case required; this is the substance and sum of what passed at the forsaid conference, that I can now remem­ber; but I remember, I was likewise told these following particulars in privat, by Polwart, or Torwoodlie, (which of them, I cannot distinctly tell) the day of the forsaid conference, or within a short time after. 1. That Polwart keeped the correspondence with our friends at London, I remember not positively of any of them that was named, to be on the en­trigue there, except my Lord Melvil, Sir Iohn Cochran, Ierviswood, and Commissar Monro (for I hardly knew any of the rest) and as I think, Com­missar Monro was call'd his correspondent there. 2. That the Money to be advanced by the English partie to Scotland was ready, when Mr. Martin came from London, and it was expected, that within few days after, it would be dispatched with some confident to Holland, (whither by Bills, or in Cash, I cannot say) it was call'd ten thousand pound Sterlin, and was to be imployed (as I was told) by that confident, at Argyles sight, for buy­ing Arms, providing Ships to transport them with Argyle, to the West here, and such other Charges. 3. That how soon our friends at London got notice of the safe arrival, of the confident forsaid, and all other things were finally concluded there (which was expected would be a­bout the middle of Iune, as I remember) they would come home, and as they passed, would give them, or one of them, an particular account of all resolutions taken to be communicat to the rest, that it was not to be expected by Letters, that behoved to be under figures, and dark expressions, and as I remember, they were written as it were about the Carolina busi­ness, or some houshold Furniture, as I was told, for I never remember I saw any Letter, either direct to London, or sent from it on that head. 4. I was told there was a Sign, and a Word agreed on by that Party, so that men might know with whom they might use freedom, the Word, as I remember was Harmony, and the Sign, the opening two Buttons in the breast coat and shutting them presently; this I communicat to the Earl of Tarras, but does not mind I ever saw it used, except when I visited Park-Hay here in Town, about the end of Iune; we discoursing a little freely, he asked if I had the Word and Sign of the Carolina men, and I having given them, he said something to this purpose, that he was afraid that the Carolina business did not go well, for there had been some of the Managers expected here (as I think he named Ierviswood or Commissar Monro) these eight days past, but there was none come, nor could he learn that any of their Friends had heard from them for several Posts. Polwart, Torwood­lie, and I met at Gallowsheils, on Midsummer Fair, but I mind nothing passed but private whisperings. Dated September 15. 1684. and subscri­ved thus,

Edinburgh, December 23▪ 1684.

THe Deposition above-written being read to the said Iames Murray of Philiphaugh, in presence of the Justices and Assizers, he adheres thereto in all points upon Oath. Sic subscribitur,

THe said Iames Murray further depons, That at their meeting at Gallowsheils, it was resolved, that they should keep up their Cess un­payed till their next meeting at Midsummer, which was to be at Gallow­sheils, and should deal with all these they had influence upon to do the like, and that upon the supposition mentioned in his Oath given in. It [Page 48] was spoke amongst them that the Troupers Horses should be seized up­on, when they were grasing. And this is the Truth, as he shall answer to God. Sic subscribitur,

HVgh Scot of Gallowsheils, aged 36. Years, married, purged, &c. and sworn. Depons, That the Earl of Tarras and Philiphaugh did come to the Deponents House, in May, 1683. and Polwart came likewise there, where there were Discourses and Proposals, that if the English would rise in Arms, their Friends in the South Shires should rise with them; and that they should seize the Horses belonging to the Kings Troops where they grased; and the Town of Berwick, and the Castle of Stirling: And likewise it was there discoursed anent the late Earl of Argiles coming to invade Scotland, but because of the uncertainty of Sea Voyages, there was not much stress laid upon it. Depons, It was also proposed, that some of the South Countrey whom they trusted in should be acquainted with it, and that endeavours should be used to learn what Arms was in the Countrey. Depons, There was some such discourse there, as that the Earl of Tarras, Philiphaugh, Torwoodlie, Polwart, and some others should draw to Horse with the first when the rising should be in readiness, that it might be ex­pected that the South parts of Teviotdale and Selkirk Shire would joyn with them. And this is the truth, as he shall answer to God. Sic subscribitur,

Edinburgh, the 14 of September 1684.

GAllowsheils Depons, that the E. of Tarras and Philiphaugh, being in his House in May 1683. Discoursed of an intended rising in Eng­land, and of Proposals made to Scots men, to rise with them, and of Lon­don in particular, and that Polwort was present at that Meeting, and told he was sure the Englishmen intended so, and that it was Discoursed at that Meeting amongst them, that it were fit to seize Berwick and Stirling; and that it was talked amongst them of bringing the Duke of York to Tryal, and tha [...] the King would abandon him. Sic Subscribitur,

Edinburgh, October 29. 1684.

Sederunt.

• Lord Chancellour.
• Lord Secretary.
• Lord President.
• Lord Advocat.

THe Laird of Gallowsheils, Prisoner in the Tolbuith of Edinburgh, be­ing Call'd and Examin'd upon Oath, Depons, that in the Moneth of May 1683. The E. of Tarras, Hume of Polwort Elder, and Laird of Philiphaugh, came to the Deponents House, himself being absent, at his coming home, they were speaking of the Security of the Protestant Reli­gion; [Page 49] and of a Party in England, who would secure, or seize the King or Duke; and that if any should rise in Arms to Defend them, or to rescue the King and Duke: There was another Party who would rise in Arms a­gainst them, it was proposed, that some Countrey-men should be spo­ken to, to try their Resolutions, and that the Resolutions, of England should be told them, to see if they would concur. But the Deponent does not remember that this proposition was approven, or undertaken to be done by any present; nor does he remember who manag'd the Discourse. It was likewise propos'd, to seize the Officers of State, especially the Chancellour and Thesaurer, and the said, Sir Iohn Cochran was to come to the West from England, for advancement of the Design; and that the Earl of Argile was to Land in the West Highlands, and to raise that Countrey. Of these matters, all these who were present Discoursed, as of an Affair that they were agitating, and wherein themselves were parti­cularly concerned, though at that time they did not conclude what their carriage should be; The reason why the Deponent cannot be more par­ticulars is, because he was sometimes going out, and sometimes walking up and down the Room; and though the Deponent cannot be positive of the very words; yet he is positive they were either these Words, or Words to that purpose. Sic subscribitur,

Edinburgh, December 23. 1684.

HVgh Scot of Gallowsheils being solemnly Sworn in presence of the Justices and Assize, adheres to the Depositions within, and above-written in all points, Sic subscribitur.

SIr William Paterson, and Mr. Colin Mckenzie, Clerks of His Majesties Privy Council being Interrogat, if they heard Mr. William Carstares own the Depositions Read, Depons they saw and heard him Swear, and own the same upon Oath, and they Collationed the Printed Copie with the Original formerly, and now they heard it Collationed, Sic sub­scribitur,

THe Deposition of Mr. William Carstares, when he was Ex­amined before the Lords of Secret Committee, given in by him, and renewed upon Oath; upon the 22. of December 1684. in presence of the Lords of His Majesties Privy Council.

Edinburgh Castle, September 8. 1684.

MR. William Carstares being Examined upon Oath, conform to the Condescention given in by him, and on the Terms therein-men­tioned; Depons, That about November, or December 1682. Iames Stuart, Brother to the Laird of Cultness, wrot a Letter to him from Hol­land, importing, That if any considerable sum of Money could be pro­cur'd from England, that something of importance might be done in Scotland: The which Letter, the Deponent had an inclination to inform Shepherd in Abb-Church-lane, Merchant in London of; but before he could do it, he wrot to Mr. Stuart above-nam'd to know from him, if he might do it; and Mr. Stuart having consented, he communicat the said Letter to Mr. Shepherd, who told the Deponent that he would communicat the Contents of it to some persons in England; but did at that time name no body, as the Deponent thinks: Sometime thereafter, Mr. Shepherd told the Deponent, that he had communicat the Contents of the Letter above-named, to Colonel Sidney, and that Colonel Danvers was present, and told the Deponent, that Colonel Sidney was averse from imploying the late Earl of Argile, or medling with him, judging him a man too much affect­ed to the Royal Family, and inclin'd to the present Church-Government; yet Mr. Shepherd being put upon it by the Deponent, still urg'd, that one might be sent to the Earl of Argile; but as Mr. Shepherd told him, he was suspected upon the account of his urging so much; yet afterwards he press'd, without the Deponents knowledge, that the Deponent being to go to Holland however, might have some Commission to the Earl of Argile, which he having inform'd the Deponent of, the Deponent told him, that he himself would not be concern'd, but if they would send another, he would introduce him; but nothing of this was done: upon which the Deponent went over, without any Commission from any body, to Holland, never meeting with Iames Stuart above-named: He was introduc'd to the Earl of Argile, with whom he had never before conversed, and did there discourse what had past betwixt Mr. Shepherd and him; and particularly, about remitting of Money to the said Earl from England; of which the said Mr. Stuart had written to the Deponent, namely of 30000 pounds Sterling; and of the raising of 1000 Horse and Dragoons; and the secu­ring the Castle of Edinburgh, as a matter of the greatest importance: The method of doing this was proposed by the Deponent, to be one hour, or thereby, after the relieving of the Guards: But the Earl did not relish this Proposition, as dangerous; and that the Castles would fall of conse­quence, after the Work abroad was done. Iames Stuart was of the De­ponents Opinion for seizing the Castle, because it would secure Edinburgh, the Magazines and Arms; As to the 1000 Horse and Dragoons, my Lord Argile was of Opinion, that without them nothing was to be done; and that if that number were rais'd in England to the said Earl, he would come into Scotland with them; and that there being so few Horse and Dra­goons to meet them, he judg'd he might get the Country without trouble, having such a standing Body for their Friends to Rendezvous to; and the said Earl said he could show the Deponent the conventient places for Lan­ding, if he understood; and as the Deponent remembers, where the Ships could attend. The Deponent remembers not the names of the places. [Page 51] The Deponent spoke to the Lord Stairs; but cannot be positive that he nam'd the Affair to him, but found him shy: but the Earl of Argile told him, he thought Stairs might be gain'd to them: And that the Earl of Low­do [...]n being a man of good Reason, and disobliged, would have great influ­ence upon the Countrey, and recommended the Deponent to Major H [...]lms with whom the Deponent had some acquaintance before, and had brought over a Letter from him to the Earl of Argyle; but the Deponent had not then communicate any thing to the said Holms, Iames Steuart laid down a way of correspondence by Cyphers and false Names, and sent them over to Holms, and the Deponent, for their use (which Cyphers and Names, are now in the hands of His Majesties Officers, as the Deponent supposes,) and did desire the Deponent earnestly to propose the 30000. pound Sterling a­bovenamed to the party in England, and did not propose any less; for as the Earl told the Deponent, he had particularly calculate the Expence for Arms, Ammunition, &c. But Iames Steuart said, that if some less could be had, the Earl would content himself, if better might not be; but the Earl always said, that there was nothing to be done without the body of Horse and Dragoons above-mentioned. During the time of the Deponent his abode in Holland, tho he had several Letters from Shepard, yet there was no satisfactory account, till some time after the Deponent parted from the Earl of Argyle, and was making for a Ship at Rotterdam to transport himself to England. Iames Steuart wrot to him that there was hopes of the Money. The next day after the Deponent came to England, he met with Sir Iohn Cochran, who, with Commissar Monro, and Ierviswood, was at London be­fore he came over; and depons, that he knows not the account of their coming, more then for the perfecting the Transaction about Carolina: and having acquainted Sir Iohn Cochran with the Earls demands of the 30000 pound Sterling and the 1000. Horse and Dragoons, Sir Iohn carried him to the Lord Russel, to whom the Deponent proposed the affair, but being an absolute Stranger to the Deponent, had no return from him at that time; but afterwards having met him accidently at Mr. Shepards ho [...]se, where he the Lord Russel had come to speak to Shepard about the Money above-named, as Mr. Shepard told the Deponent. The Deponent (when they were done speaking) desired to speak to the Lord Russel, which the Lord Russel did, and having reiterate the former Proposition for 30000. pound Sterling, and the 1000. Horse and Dragoons, he the Lord Russel told the Deponent, they could not get so much raised at the time, but if they had 10000. pound to begin, that would draw People in, and when they were once in, they would soon be brought to more; but as for the 1000. Horse and Dragoons, he could say nothing at the present, for that behoved to be concerted upon the Borders. The Deponent made the same proposal to Mr. Ferguson, who was much concerned in the Affair, and zealous for the promoving of it. This Mr. Ferguson had in October or November before, as the Deponent remembers in a Conversation with the Deponent in Cheap­side, or the Street somewhere thereabout, said, that for the saving of in­nocent Blood, it would be necessary to cut off a few, insinuating the King and Duke, but cannot be positive whether he named them or not, to which the Deponent said, that's work for our wild People in Scotland, my Con­science does not serve me for such things; after which the Deponent had never any particular discourse with Ferguson, as to that matter; but as to the other Affair, Ferguson told the Deponent that he was doing what he could to get it effectuate, as particularly that he spoke to one Major Wild­man who is not of the Deponent his acquaintance. Ferguson blamed al­ways Sidney, as driving designs of his own. The Deponent met twice or thrice with the Lord Melvil, Sir Iohn Cochran, Ierviswood, Commissar Monro, the two Cessnocks, Mongomery of Landshaw, and one Mr. Veitch, where they discoursed of Money to be sent to Argyle, in order to the car­rying [Page 52] on the Affair, and tho he cannot be positive the Affair was named, yet it was understood by himself, and as he conceives by all present, to be for rising in Arms, for rectifying the Government. Commissary Monro, Lord Melvil, and the two Cessnocks were against medling with the English, because they judged them men that would talk, and would not do, but were more inclined to do something by themselves, if it could be done. The Lord Melvil thought every thing hazardous, and therefore the Deponent cannot say he was positive in any thing, but was most inclined to have the Duke of Monmouth to head them in Scotland, of which no particular me­thod was laid down. Ierviswood, the Deponent, and Mr. Veitch, were for taking Money at one of these Meetings. It was resolved, that Mr. Martin, late Clerk to the Justice Court should be sent to Scotland, to desire their Friends to hinder the Countrey from Rising, or taking rash Resolu­tions upon the account of the Council, till they should see how matters went in England. The said Martin did go at the Charges of the Gentle­men of the Meeting, and was directed to the Laird of Polwart and Tor­woodlie, who sent back word that it would not be found so easie a matter to get the Gentrie of Scotland to concur: But afterwards in a Letter to Commissar Monro, Polwart wrote that the Countrey was readier to concur then they had imagined, or something to that purpose. The Deponent, as above-said, having brought over a Key from Holland, to serve himself and Major Holms: he remembers not that ever he had an axact Copy of it, but that sometimes the one, sometimes the other keeped it, and so it chanced to be in his custody when a Letter from the Earl of Argyle came to Major Holms, intimating, that he would joyn with the Duke of Mon­mouth, and follow his measures, or obey his Directions. This Mr. Veitch thought fit to communicate to the Duke of Monmouth, and for the Under­standing of it was brought to the Deponent, and he gave the Key to Mr. Veitch, who as the Deponent, was informed, was to give it and the Letter to Mr. Ferguson, and he to shew it to the Duke of Monmouth; but what was done in it, the Deponent knows not. The Deponent heard the Design of Killing the King and Duke, from Mr. Shepard, who told the Deponent some were full upon it. The Deponent heard that Aron Smith was sent by those in England to call Sir Iohn Cochran, on the account of Carolina, but that he does not know Aron Smith, nor any more of that matter, not being concerned it it. Shepard named young Hamden frequently as con­cerned in these Matters.

Edinburgh Castle 18 September 1684.

MR. William Carstares being again Examined, adheres to his former Deposition, in all the parts of it, and Depones he knows of no Correspondence betwixt Scotland and England, except by Martin before named; for those Gentlemen to whom he was sent, were left to follow their own Methods. Veitch sometimes, as the Deponent remembers, stayed sometimes an Nicolson, Stabler's House, at London-wall; sometimes with one Widow Hardcastle in More-fields. The Deponent did Communicate the Design on foot to Doctor Owen, Mr. Griffil, and Mr. Meed, at Stepney, who all concurred in the promoting of it, and were desirous it should take effect; and to one Mr. Freth in the Temple, Councellor at Law, who said that he would see what he could do in reference to the Money, but there having gone a Report, that there was no Money, to be raised, he did nothing in it; nor does the Deponent think him any more concerned in the Affair. Nelthrop frequently spoke to the Deponent of the Money to [Page 53] be sent to Argyle, whether it was got or not, but the Deponent used no freedom with him in the Affair. Goodenough did insinuate once, that the Lords were not inclined to the thing, and that before, they would see what they could do in the City. The Deponent saw Mr. Ferguson, and Mr. Rumsay, lurking after the Plot broke out, before the Proclamation, having gone to Ferguson, in the back of Bishopsgate-street, at some new Building, whether he was directed by Ierviswood, who was desirous to know how things went. Rumsay was not o [...] the Deponent his acquaintance before, but they knew as little of the matter as the Deponent. This is what the Deponent remembers, and if any thing come to his Memory, he is to de­liver it in betwixt the first of October. And this is the truth, as he shall answer to God.

At Edinburgh, the 22. of December, 1684.

THese foregoing Depositions, Subscribed by Mr. William Carstares De­ponent, and by the Lord Chancellor, were acknowledged on Oath by the said Mr. William Carstares, to be his true Depositions; and that the Subscriptions were his, in presence of us Under subscribers.

THe Examination of Thomas Shepard of London Merchant, taken upon Oath before the Right Honourable Sir Leolin Jenkins Knight, His Majesties Paincipal Secretary of State, the 23. day of December. 1683.

THe Deponent saith, That Ferguson told him on, or about the Moneth of April last, that an Insurrection was intended both in England and in Scotland, and that for the settling that Affair betwixt the two Nations, Mr. Baillie, Mr. Monro, Sir Iohn Cochran, Sir Hugh and Sir George Campbels, with some others (whose names this Deponent heard not) were come to London.

That the Deponent had some acquaintance with Mr. Baillie, Mr. Monro. and Sir Iohn Cochran, and none at all with Sir Hugh and Sir George Campbels; that Mr. Baillie told the Deponent, that the Earl of Argile demanded Thirty Thousand Pounds of the English to capacitat him to begin the bu­siness effectually in Scotland, and that he the said Baillie likewise told the Deponent, that having concerted things with the Lord Russel and others, he the said Baillie found an impossibility of raising that Sum; After which the said Baillie had acquainted the Deponent, that they were certainly pro­mised Ten Thousand Pounds, which Sum was agreed to be payed into the Deponents hands, in order to be remitted into Holland, for the providing of Arms; and that the said Baillie told the Deponent at divers times, that the said Sum, or at least one half of it would be payed such a day, and such a day; and sometimes asked the Deponent, if he had received any part of [Page 54] the said Money, to which the Deponent replyed that he had not, and that he the Deponent scarce thought any would be payed.

And the Deponent also saith, that having had some little conversation with Sir Iohn Cochran, he remembers well, that both of them did some­times lament the delays in not paying in the Money, and said, that although the said Ten thousand Pounds were pay'd in, they, the said Sir Iohn Cochran and Mr. Monro, fear [...]d it would be too little; and this Deponent further sayeth not, as to any new matter. But the Deponent being asked, to Ex­plain what he thought was meant by the words above-written, viz. to ca­pacitat him (the Earl of Argile) to begin the business, he, this Deponent sayeth, that he did understand by the Word business, an Insurrection in Scotland. Sic subscribitur,

THe Information of Zachary Bourn of London, Brewer, taken upon Oath, the tenth day of December 1683. before the Right honourable Mr. Secretary Ienkins.

THe Informant Deposeth, and sayeth, that Mr. Baillie set up one Night, if not two, with Mr. Ferguson, and went several times in the Even­ing with him to the Duke of Monmouth, and the chief mannagers of the Conspiracy; That Ferguson told the Deponent, that he the said Baillie was the chief man for the Scots, next to the Lord Argile; that the said Baillie did sit up the greatest part of one night, with the said Ferguson; at which time this Deponent believeth they were busie in preparing the intended Declaration, which the Deponent has the more reason to believe, in as much as the said Ferguson did go about to show him the Deponent, such a Paper, wherein the said Ferguson was hindered by the coming up Stairs of some person, to speak with the said Ferguson, that the said Ferguson told the De­ponent, that the main business of the said Baillie, in meeting the saids Conspirators, was in order to get from them the Ten thousand Pounds, promised for the buying of Arms, for the Insurrection intended in Scot­land.

That the Deponent saw Mr. William Carstares come often to the Lodg­ings of the said Ferguson; but that the said Ferguson never told the De­ponent of any Discourse held by him with the said Carstares: and further this Deponent saith not▪ sic subscribitur,

Edinburgh, December 24. 1684.

THe said day, The Persons who past upon the Assie of Mr. Robert Baillie of Ierviswood, return'd their Verdict in presence of the saids Lords; whereof the Tenor follows. The Assize, all in one Voice, finds the Crimes of Art and Part in the Conspiracy, and Plot Libelled; and of [Page 61] concealing, and not revealing the same, clearly proven against Mr. Robert Baillie the Pannal, in respect of the Depositions of Witnesses and Admi­nicles adduced. Sic subscribitur,

AFter opening and reading of the which verdict of Assyze, The Lords, Justice General, Justice Clerk, and Commissioners of Justiciary▪ therefore, by the mouth of Iames Iohnstoun Dempster of Court, Decerned and Adjudged the said Mr. Robert Baillie of Ierviswood to be taken to the Mercat Cross of Edinburgh, this twentie fourth day of December instant, betwixt two and four a clock in the afternoon, and there to be hanged on a Gibbet till he be dead, and his Head to be cut off, and his Body to be Quartered in four, and his head to be affixt on the Nether-bow of Edinburgh, and one of his Quarters to be affixt on the Tolbooth of Ied­burgh, another on the Tolbooth of Lanerk, a third on the Tolbooth of Air, and a fourth on the Tolbooth of Glasgow; And ordains his Name, Fame, Memory, and Honours to be extinct, his Blood to be Tainted, and his Arms to be riven forth, and delate out of the Books of Arms, so that his Posterity may never have Place, nor be able hereafter to bruik, or joyse any Honours, Offices, Titles or Dignities, within this Realm in time coming; and to have Forfaulted, Ammitted and Tint all and sundry his Lands, Heritages, Tacks, Steadings, Rooms, Possessions, Goods and Gear whatsoever, pertaining to him, to Our Soveraign Lords use, to remain perpetually with His Highness, in Property, which was pronunced for Doom.

Extracted forth of the Books of Adjournal, by me Mr. Thomas Gordon, Clerk to the Iustice Court, sic subscribitur.