The History of the Reformation of the Church of Scotland

Some gainstood for a while: The new Election alleged, That the Provest and Bailiffs whom they had chosen, and to whom they had given their Oath, had committed no offence; therefore that justly they might be deprived. But while Charge was doubled upon Charge, and no man found to oppose himself to impiety, the misled Queens Letter and wicked will is obeyed, as just Law. And so was M. Thomas Makalan chosen Provest for the other. The man, no doubt, was both discreet, and sufficient for that Charge; but the deposition of the other was against all Law. God be merciful to some of our own, for they were not all blameless, that the Queens unreasonable will was so far obeyed.

Some gainstood for a while: The new Election alleadged, That the Provest and Bayliffs whom they had chosen, and to whom they had given their Oath, had committed no offence; therefore that justly they might be deprived. But while Charge was doubled upon Charge, and no man found to oppose himself to impiety, the misled Queens Letter and wicked will is obeyed, as just Law. And so was M. Thomas Makalan chosen Provest for the other. The man, no doubt, was both discreet, and sufficient for that Charge; but the deposition of the other was against all Law. God be mercifull to some of our owne, for they were not all blamelesse, that the Queens unreasonable will was so far obeyed.

A contrary Proclamation was publicly made, That the Town should be patent to all the Queens Lieges: And so Murderers, Adulterers, Thieves (Whores,¹ Drunkards, Idolaters, and all Malefactors, got protection under the Queens wings, under colour that they were of her Religion: And so got the devil freedom again, where that before he durst not have been seen in day light upon the common streets. Lord deliver us from this Bondage of sin.

A contrary Proclamation was publikely made, That the Town should be patent to all the Queens Lieges: And so Murtherers, Adulterers, Theeves (Whores,¹