The History of the Reformation of the Church of Scotland

because it was her dearest daughters property, and no other person could claim Title or Interesse thereto, and also because in former times it had been fortified: About the same time that the seeking support of England was made manifest, arrived the Earle of Arran, ¹and adjoined himself to the Congregation, upon further promise then the pretended quarrel, or Religion that was to be set up by them in authority, and so to pervert the whole obedience, and as some of the Congregation at the same time had put into their hands, and taken the Castle of Brochtie, put forth the keepers thereof. Immediately came from the said Duke to her Majesty unlooked for, a Writ, beside many others complaining of the fortification of the said Town of Leith, in hurt of the ancient inhabitants thereof, brethren of the said Congregation, whereof he then professed himself a Member. And albeit that the Bearer of the said Writ was an unmeet Messenger, in a matter of such consequence, yet her Majesty directed to him two persons of good credit and reputation, with answer; Offering, If he would cause amends to be made for that which was committed against the Laws of the Realm, to do further then could be craved of reason. And to that effect, to draw some conference, which by his fault and his Colleagues took no end; nevertheless they continually since continue in their doings,² usurping the authority, commanding and charging free Boroughs to choose Provosts and officers of their naming, and to assist to them in the purpose they would be at: and that they will not suffer provision to be brought for sustentation of her Majesties houses. A great part have so plainly set aside all reverence and humanity, whereby every man may know, That it is no matter of Religion, but a plain usurpation of the authority: and no doubt but simple men of good Zeal in former times, therewith falsely have been deceived. But as to the Queens part (God who knoweth the secrets of all hearts well knoweth, ⟨p. 186⟩and the world shall see by experience) that the fortification of Leith was devised for no other purpose, but for recourse to her highness and her company, in case they were pursued. Wherefore, as good Subjects that have the fear of God in their hearts, will not suffer themselves by such vain persuasions to be led away from their due obedience: