Defence By Attack – Selkirk 1530 Most border towns did not have walls and so…
Selkirk Protocols John Chepman 1511 – 1547
Book A The Protocol Book of Sir John Chepman, Notary Public 1511 – 36, 1545 – 47
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[In left margin of page one “liber d[omi]n[u]s Jo. Haw [et] d[omi]n[u]s Jo. Chepman”.]
1. No title, no date. Fragment of a sample style of appointment of procurators.
2. No title. No date. Fragment of an instrument narrating that John Bulman resigns his tenement of land with pertinents from himself, his heirs [and assignees] in favour of William Mayne in the hands of George Scot bailie of Selkirk, requesting the bailie to give heritable state, sasine and possession of the said tene¬ment to William Mayne personally present and accepting by showing earth [and stones] in the tenor of a charter of the said John shown and delivered before to the said William. before witnesses Thomas Jhonson, [?Robert] Chepman, John Cadzow,William Lermont, Nicholas Hendirsone, ( p/t ) Lawson.
3. No title. 28 [Oct? 1511.] (p/t) that on the 10 November ( p/t) to his kirk of Selkirk in the hands (p/t) made clear in a certain instrument on behalf of the said master [Walter?] (p/t) on the ninth day from the date of these presents the said master Walter resigns, renounces and solemnly demits all ownership and possession he has, had or will have in or to the clerkship of the said kirk of Selkirk. Witnesses Robert Dwne, master William Ker.
4. Dowglass 23 Nov 1511. … before me notary public and witnesses underwritten, Charles Dowglass moved not by force or fallen in error but of his own pure and spontaneous will resigns demits and renounces forever all ownership and possession which he has, had or will have to clerkship of the parish kirk of Bowdene in the hands of ( p/t) and that in the same resignation, demission and renunciation fraud, guile, simony, persuasion [“labes”] or preference [“convens”] was not [committed?] about which James Dowglass son ( p/t) for his interest sought the instrument or instruments from me notary public.Done at the kirk of Bowdene around 11 am… before Andrew (p/t), sir Nycolas Ker, master Adam Scot vicar of B[owden?], and Thomas Ruthirfurd, etc.
And I John Chepman priest of Glasgow (p/t) the said resignation, renunciation and demission (p/t) all and whole being done, saw, understood and heard (p/t) as this present instrument written in my own hand (p/t) public form of an instru¬ment reduced, signed and (p/t) in faith and witness of the above¬written.
5. Fragment of an instrument narrating that the clerkship (of the parish of Bowdene?] with effects was given to the young man James [Dowglass] ( p/t) Charles [Dowglass] which clerkship the said Charles resigned on the 23rd day of November year as above as was shown before me notary public in the hands of the [parish? “prorourum”] of the same and resigns and demits all right and claim, ownership and possession in favour of the said James which note it follows. Witnesses Andrew Ker of Sesfurd, sir Nycolas Ker, William Armstrong, Thomas ( p/t ), Andrew Bannantyn.
6. Huntar (p/t) March 1511/12. Before me notary public and witnesses underwritten, Elizabeth Huntar relict of the deceased [Thomas] Huntar of Wilyemlaw, put into the hands of the notary a certain letter of assedation of the venerable man in Christ Barnard Bell, by divine permission lord abbot of Melrose and his monks, written on parchment and sealed with the common seal of that place without erasures (p/t) or spoilt in any part as ap¬peared on first sight to read out and make public and for mature consideration the said Elizabeth…with consent of her [first¬born] son, Robert Huntar, gave the said letter of assedation to her [sons] James Huntar and William Huntar in these words “You are my boys [“pueri”] and for the filial [love] which I bear you make and ordain you my true and lawful assignees in all and whole the terms and years contained in the letter of assedation made to the deceased Thomas Huntar my spouse and to me (p/t) after my decease”. James and William sought the instrument done at Yare at 1 pm before [William] Ker rector of Lindene, William Ker in Yare elder, William Ker in Selkirk, Robert Ramsa in Wylecleucht, Andrew Ormstoun, William Bannantyn.
7. Same day. (p/t) brother german ( p/t) bind (p/t) for Elizabeth Huntar relict [of the deceased Thomas Huntar] (p/t) regarding the possession of her terce (p/t) for her lifetime undisturbed (p/t). [Elisabeth] sought instrument or instruments done at the place of Yair in the hall of the same around 1 pm before witnesses William Ker rector of Lindene, William Ker in Yair elder, William Ker in Selkirk, Robert Ramsay in Wyles¬cleucht, Andrew Ormston, ( p/t) Ormston and William Bannantyne.
8. Ker 8, 9, 11 Feb 15 [11/12 – eighth indiction of Julius II] It was clearly shown to me notary public that (p/t) relict of the deceased John Furd, Gilbert Furd, Isabella Furd, (?) Furd (blank) children of the said deceased (p/t) declare that they are content and paid of the sum of 50 (p/t) from William Ker in Yair… and the same William Ker debtor and surety for the de¬ceased Ralph Ker (p/t) through amicable agreement concerning the cruel murder of the said (p/t). About which William Ker sought instrument done on the grounds of Yair and le Cawfschaws within the land of W(p/t) around 3 pm on the 8th, (p/t) on the 9th and 2 pm on the 11th day before Thomas Hoppringill, (p/t) in Torwodlie, William Hoppringill in (p/t) chaplain, Roger Hoppringill, William Bannantyn.
9. Fragment of an instrument narrating that (illegible) Melross gives his younger son for the sake of filial love that he has for him his [moveable and immoveable?] goods and that they should be delivered after the decease of the said Marion. Thomas Melrose sought instrument before ( p/t) Chepman, Robert Chepman, John Chepman, James Chepman, ( p/t) Chepman and Janet Scot.
10. Murraye ( p/t) April 1512 (p/t) [John] Murray of Fawla¬hill came to the principal dwellinghouse of 2 [ husband]lands with pertinents lying in the town and land of Bold and within the sheriffdom of Peebles and there presented a precept of sasine of our supreme lord king…under testimony of his Great Seal in hands of William Hair bailie… and for the execution of the same precept…the notary made a sworn copy in the following manner : (illegible) and to his bailies of Peebles and Selkirk also… to William Hair and Thomas Cogburn and (illegible) of Peebles and Selkirk in that part… greetings. (illegible) to our lovit John Murray of Fawlahill all the husbandlands of Bold with pertinents (p/t) of old extent lying in the sheriffdom of Peebles with (the next part of the deed is missing or badly decayed)… after our recognition made before to the said (p/t) from William Cogburn and John Murray and all others [contained] in our letter of citation to hear (illegible) the said lands to pertain to us by reason of forfeiture…and handed over by the lords of council all the said lands pertaining to us and [returned] to our posses¬sion by our own free will as was proven clearly by [ the lords of council?] as is contained in the earlier decreet made before to the said John… and we command you (p/t) John Murray or his lawful attorney to take [sasine] of the said lands of Bold and of Phillophauch with pertinents [called] Quhitlawislandes following the tenor of our said charter made from us..without delay..from our [bailies] of Selkirk and Peebles in that part… (p/t) under testimony of the Great Seal at Edinburgh, (p/t) March 1510 and of our reign xxiii [1510/11]. After reading out and making public the said precept, William Hair bailie in that part, handed over earth and stones on the ground of the said lands to John Murray personally present and accepting the tenor of his charter save the right of whomsoever. Witnesses George Dikesone, John (p/t), ( p/t) Scot, Alexander Tait of Pyrne.
11. Fragment of an instrument narrating that [Stephen Lauder] burgess of the burgh of Selkirk presented a precept of sasine written on parchment and with [red] and white seals appended of [John Lord Hay] of Yester to [David Broun] bailie in that part requesting him to execute the same and the said David took it and handed it to me notary public to read out in the following tenor: John Lord Hay of Yester and baron of the barony of Oliverscastell to John Cokburn, William Gresoune, Thomas Paterson, Simon Geddes and David Brounand whomsoever of them jointly and severally, my bailies in that part specially constituted greetings, we have given and granted to Stephen Lauder burgess of the burgh of Selkirk all the lands of Todrig with the manor and dwelling house thereto and pertinents lying in the said barony of Olivercastell in the sheriffdom of Selkirk as is more fully in his charter made before. Therefore we charge you jointly and severally and firmly command you… without delay to give heritable state sasine and possession… of the lands etc to the said Stephen or his lawful attorney according to the tenor of the charter and save the rights of whomsoever… which was done under testimony of the seal of these presents at Edinburgh ( p/t) Aug 1512. After the same was read out [the bailie gave sasine of the same to Stephen Lauder]. Witnesses Richard Lauder, John Reid, William Reid, (?) Schortreid, Thomas Robson.
12. 27 (p/t) Patrick Elphinstone [procurator] (p/t) of the diocese and university of St Andrews (p/t) of Morbottill (illegi¬ble) to these stalls [“stalli”] [ before] master George Ker canon of Glasgow (p/t) and diverse others.
13. Ker 26 July [1514?] [George] Ker vicar of Morbottill instituted and invested master [Thomas] Ker in and to the arch¬deaconry of Teviotdale by handing him the chalice and other priestly vestments at the kirk of Morbottil before witnesses William Ker of Corbethouse, Robert Ker, Alan (p/t), Robert Alex¬ander, William Spenss, Thomas Tailyor.
14. Ker 2 Aug [1514?] master Thomas Ker (p/t) protested that his removal from the choir of Glasgow should not turn to his hurt because of his obediences and divine services [performed] by him in his right and claim to the Archdeaconry of Teviotdale before witnesses Patrick Colquhoune rector of Stobo, master Martin Reid (p/t), [master Thomas] Forsyth, sir Alan Smyth, sir Thomas Smyth, sir William Hammilton, William Cunynghame of Craga¬nis.
15. Ker 6 Aug [1514?] George Ker… constitutes masters William Ker and Thomas Ker…principal intromitters with his goods [to dispose of them] as they wish… before David Pater¬sone.
16. Fragment of an instrument, date missing [temp Pope Leo but year not known] narrating that master George Ker canon of Glas¬gow and prebendary of [Morebattle] of his own free will consti¬tutes and ordains Angelus of Censis, Barnard of Bartonis, James Cortesius, Thomas Midri, John Hay, Adam (?)sone, William Lame… his procurators in all writings,acts and special messages..and in appointing as depute and assignee his brother german [Thomas Ker?] to the canonical prebend of auldroxburgh with future suc¬cession to the same in the event of his decease. Done at the house of the said master [George Ker] between 11 and 12 am before (p/t) Ker, Thomas Ker clerk, George Ker, James Ker.
17. Ker 21 Nov 1514. George Ker [ son] of the deceased James Ker of Lynton appoints [master Thomas] Ker canon of Glasgow his procurator and assignees of the fruits and profits of the archdeaconery of Teviotdale [ by letter of] assedation made to him from master Thomas (p/t) of Morbottill. Witnesses Thomas Scot, James Elwand.
18. Elwand 27 July 1516 Dispensation to marry within the prohibited bounds of consanguinity in the fourth degree, given by master Thomas Ker, [Arch]deacon of Teviotdale to Ingran Elwand and Elizabeth Scot before witnesses Thomas Scot, Alexander Scot and ( p/t ).
19. Sandelandes 20 July 1517. Fragment of a dispensation to marry given by master Thomas Ker. Witnesses George Ormston, Wil¬liam ( p/t), and Thomas Dickinson.
20. Ormston Sept 1517. Dispensation to marry within prohib¬ited bounds of consanguinity in the fourth degree, given by master Thomas Ker archdeacon of Teviotdale to George Ormston and Elizabeth Scot before witnesses master George Ker canon of Glas¬gow, George Ker of Lynton, Gilbert Furd and John Ker.
21. [4 ] April 1518. Thomas Dikesone [ son of] Thomas Dikesone of Ormstoune and heir apparent of the same, came to the principal dwelling house of Ormstoune and there broke a certain sasine null and void of the lands of Ormstoune formerly given to (p/t) Dick¬son second born son of the said Thomas…declaring that the said sasine given before should not prejudice him in his enjoyment or his heirs in time to come. Witnesses John Sandelandis, Adam Ben¬net, George Vache, ( p/t) Robeson, John Mur, Richard Wat, James Steile.
22. Watson Sept 1513 (sic). John Watsone son and heir of Archebald Watsone burgess in Selkirk, came to a tenement …between the lands of William Patersone elder on the east and (p/t) on the west and there of his own free will, re¬signed one and a half rigs with “le Mabillis” (p/t) to one of the bailies who… gave sasine to James Watsone before William Trum¬bill, John Caidzow, James Hall, James Murray, (?) Hall, John Portus, John Hall, Thomas Brydyn, Thomas Portus and James ( ? ).
23. Ker 19 June 1518 master George Ker canon of Glasgow [presented] a certain letter of acquittance of Margaret, Queen of Scots [written] in the following manner ” Regina, we grant ws to haif fra oure servand Master George Ker in the Farnele [the sum] of auchtene pundis and five shillings of our maile of the said (p/t) and discharges the said Master George of all the (p/t) this present wrytt subscrivit wyth oure hand at Ed[inburgh] the xxiiii day of September in the yeir of God 15( p/t). Margaret R.” Wit¬nesses master Richard Bothwell rector of Askirk, sir (p/t), sir William Braidfut, William Hoppringill.
24. Doby 31 May 1516 . Fragment narrating that John Doby rector of Ankrum (p/t) for the works by the said master ( p/t) to the same John for the said master (p/t) and this on his own con¬fession. Witnesses sir David Scot vicar of [Ashkirk], Alexander Robertoun, sir Andrew Chrystyson, Mungo ( p/t ). Done around 2 pm [ in the house of] the said master John in Glesgw.
25. Hoppringill May 1516. Dispensation to marry within the prohibited bounds of consanguinity in the third and fourth de¬gree, given by master Thomas Ker archdeacon of Teviotdale to Adam Hoppringill and Janet Dalgless before witnesses master George Ker canon of Glasgow, sir John Ker and Herbert Hoppringill.
26 Davisone Same day May 1516. Dispensation to marry within the prohibited bounds of consanguinity given by master Thomas Ker archdeacon of Teviotdale to ( ? ) Davisone and Janet Hoppringill.
Witnesses as above
27. Ker (?) June 1518 [“in the same year” ie 1516 scored out]. Fragment referring to master Thomas Ker who appealled to [James?] by divine permission Archbishop of Glasgow before wit¬nesses master James Steward canon of M[oravia?], Robert [Elphin¬stoun] rector of Kincardine, John Reid, James Neilsone James (p/t), sir Robert Hill, Robert Durens, William Hoppringill, Wil-liam Tait.
28. Ker 28 July 1516. Fragment mentioning master Thomas Ker, master Thomas Couttis and witnesses John Keyne, Thomas Tulcis.
29. Ker 7 Dec 1517 ( p/t) Ker of Lynton declared that he was compelled by royal letters to desist from intrometting and receiving the rents and lands of (p/t) and Wester Blaklawis, protesting that the same should not prejudice him from pursuing his right and claim at a convenient time and place. Witnesses Andrew Ker of Farnell, ( p/t) Ruthirfurd of Hundalee, George Dowgless of Bonjedward, Lancelot Ker, William Davidsone, Adam Ruthirfurd, Cristall Davidsone.
30. Ker 7 Dec 1517 master Thomas Ker archdeacon of Teviot¬dale procurator for master [George Ker?] canon of Glasgow, com¬peared and declared that the said act [or deed] was between George Ker of Lynton and Robert Ker of Sundirlandhaw and Robert Ker in Selkirk (p/t) it should not prejudice him in respect of his right and claim and that he was not called to the said courts before witness above.
[Same day] George Ker of Lynton affixed the seal of master George [ Ker of auldrox]burgh to the said latter of assedation. Witnesses James Ker, master Thomas Ker, William Hoppringill, (?) Bradfut.
31. Ker 6 May 1516 master [George] Ker prebendary of Aul¬droxburgh and rector of the parish kirk of Thankartoun in the diocese of Glasgow…appointed,created and ordained his true undoubted and lawful actors, factors and negotiators of all his underwritten acts and messages special and general viz the vener¬able men masters and sirs Andrew Sybald canon of Glasgow, Andrew Marschell prebendary of Moffat, Stephen Douglass [commissary] of Teviotdale absent and present..so that..he may resign, renounce and demit his rectory of Thankartoun to the reverend in Christ and lord archbishop James of the diocese of Glasgow purely and simply…all fraud and guile..excluded..(illegible) and for whatever reason..he might have in the future..and they bind themselves [under pain of] their moveable and immoveable goods present and to come. George Ker sought instrument or instruments done at Farnilee before witnesses Andrew Elwand, Robert Ker, Robert Boyd.
32. Haw ( p/t) June 1519. John Jhonsone procurator in the name of Janet Robesone spouse of Thomas Robesone declared that on Tuesday [9?] June 1519, Janet Robesone had provided evidents viz a charter and sasine of a tenement now occupied by the said Thomas [Henresone?] before the bailies of Selkirk and the bailies had assigned to the said Thomas Henresone on Tuesday 15 next immediately following to produce the evidents he has for the tenement the said day coming and the bailies sitting …the said Thomas did not produce evidents to defend his claim. John Jhonson sought instrument done in the court house of Selkirk around 11 before witnesses Andrew Ker of Primsydlocht, Robert Ker in Sel¬kirk, Stephen Lauder, sir David Chapman, Alexander Scot, Thomas Jhonson, Thomas Jhonson.
33. Baillies and Community of Selkirk On the same day, Andrew Ker of Primsydloucht of his own free will…came to his mill of Hadirle and there he resigned the said mill with “le bullis heucht” and other pertinents, by handing over earth and stones, delivered the mill with all its pertinents to Robert Ker procurator and in the name of the burgh of Selkirk, heirs and assignees forever the said bailies and community rendering 24 merks usual money at the terms of [ Whitsunday and Martinmas ]. Done at the mill of Hadirle around 3 pm before sir David Chepman, Alexander Scot, Adam Wilkeson, Thomas Wilkeson, John Sanderson, Thomas Portuus, Alexander Gray, Symone Farle, Alan Keyne, Richard Robeson.
34 Ker Same day and witnesses. Robert Ker of Selkirk procu¬rator in the name of [the whole] community of Selkirk, promised the foresaid Andrew Ker he would not set in tack the [said] mill without his consent. Andrew Ker sought instrument done at the said mill at 3 pm before witnesses as abovewritten.
35. Ormstoune 19 May 1520 Andrew Ker of Primsydloucht ac¬knowledged that he had a letter of forewarning from John Ormstoun of Wester Meirdene to compear at the kirk of McKarstoun at the altar of Blessed Mary of the same kirk on 9 Nov bypast and there to receive in his hands £40 scots and a certain letter of tack for the space of three years under the tenor and form of a rever¬sion of his father to him John made and dated at the said altar [before?] John Ormstoune with the letter of compromise and letter ( p/t) with all the points and articles contained in it to be considered more fully and now he has received the sum of £40 with the letter of assedation for three years and the said Andrew declares he is well content paid by John Ormstoun, his heirs and assignees…and after receipt of the same, the said Andrew quit¬claimed and resigned all the lands of Statherik and Nethirlongt¬oune with the charter and sasine and all evidents made by Ralph Ker, his father and Andrew Ker…to John Ormstoun, his heirs and assignees by staff and baton as is the custom and the said An¬drew, his heirs and assignees hands over all right claim etc in and to the lands of Statherik and Nethir Longtoun…forever. Also Andrews binds himself his heirs and assignees to [render] dis¬charge, defend, depone and serve their heirs and assignees at the [hand?] of the lady of (p/t) [relict?] of the deceased Ralph Ker his father (p/t) interest to the said sum of £40 and the letter of assedation. Witnesses John Hoppringill of Galloschelis, Walter Trumbill of Mynto, Alexander Gray, William Hoppringill of Tofts, Andrew Tait and George McDowell.
36. Ker 11 June 1520 William Atkin, Roger Tait and William Wode acknowledged that they owe master George Ker, rector of Aldroxburgh the sum of money and victuals below :
£15 arrears of 20 bolls barley from 1518. Item 5 firlots barley tithes [ or teinds] of the same year. Item 14 bolls oats from 1519. Item 2 bolls barley from 1519.Item 12 bolls corn from 1519. Item 3 equal parts of a share of 50 shillings. Item 3 bolls willows.
Which confession George Ker sought from me notary public. Done at the chapel of Farnele at 3 pm before witnesses sir William Brad¬fut, Andrew Ker and Henry Elwand.
37. Kirkhope 29 July 1520. Fragment of a declaration by Thomas Kirkhope that he made an examination of a letter from James archbishop of Glasgow at Aldroxburgh Kirk at the time of High Mass before witnesses Andrew Ker, Thomas Dwne, John Jak, (p/t ) Martyn, James Ker.
38. Penvene 5 Aug 1520 master Robert Penman curate of Al¬droxburgh showed the abovementioned letter before the parish at the time of High Mass at (p/t) before witnesses William Ker, James Ker,John Jak, Thomas Dwne, William Atkin, Patrick Wod.
39. Ker 2 Oct 1520 master George Ker rector of ald roxburgh renounces the incorporation of the perpetual vicarage of aldrox¬burgh with the rectory thereof in favour of William Brydin which vicarage was annexed to the said rectory by apostolic bulls dated 1492 in the eighth year of the pope Innocent 8th and by which he has, had and will have right of title in and to the said vicarage by reason of the said incorporation…and he relinquishes the same as above from the said rectory. George Ker sought instru¬ment or instruments before witnesses master Thomas Ker archdeacon of Teviotdale, sir William Braidfut.
40. 1520. Dispensation to marry within the prohibited bounds of third grade consanguinity given by Thomas Ker archdeacon of Teviotdale to Adam (p/t) and Janet Scot according to a letter of Andrew archbishop of St Andrews legate before witnesses Robert Ker in Selkirk, sir John Hudson, sir David Wethirburn, sir Wil¬liam Furd.
41. Michelson 13 Jan 1521. Dispensation to marry within the prohibited bounds of fourth grade consanguinity given by master Thomas Ker to Simon Michelsone and Katherine Davidsone [ by the same authority as above] before witnesses sir David Logan, John Daveson, William Daveson.
42. Scot 26 Jan 1522. Dispensation to marry within the prohibited bounds of fifth and fourth grades consanguinity given by master Thomas Ker to George Scot and Margaret Trumbill before witnesses William Hoppringill and William Tait.
43. Scot 30 Nov 1520. Dispensation to marry within the prohibited bounds of fourth grade consanguinity given by master Thomas Ker archdeacon of Teviotdale to Adam Scot and Elizabeth Scot [ by same authority as 40] before witnesses William Tait, James Donaldson, John Vallance.
44. Ker 27 April 1523 George Ker and James Ker brothers german bind themselves to George Ker of [?Lynton] against all men, the king and Andrew Ker excepted. Witnesses master George Ker canon of Glasgow, Thomas Ker archdeacon of Teviotdale.
45. Year month and day as above [ie 44] the same G[eorge] Ker binds himself to Lancelot Ker, George Ker and (p/t) Ker in form and style as follows and binds himself in the sum of 300 merks scots to a marriage contract god willing with Isabel Ker daughter of Lancelot Ker between this and the feast of St John next and immediately following. Witnesses as [44].
46. Ker 16 Feb 1523 master George Ker canon [of Glasgow] and prebendary of Aldroxburgh healthy in mind [sick] in body, to his certain knowledge made his testament in the following way
“Item first he ordains William and Thomas Ker and sir William Brydin his executors and intromittors of his goods [jointly] to dispose of his goods and things and to complete his legacy as they wished to [answer] before God.
Item first (sic) he wills and ordains that his executors erect and found his chapel in the kirk of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Calco in honour of St Salvator and Blessed Mary of Pity and for this £12 and he also chooses sir John Chepman chaplain of the said chapel.
Item he constitutes the old images to be burnt at the said altar of the Salutation, three images viz one larger image of St Salva¬tor, one of the “Salutation” of Blessed Mary and one of St John the Baptist and the image of the Blessed Mary to be painted anew in the best way possible and [put] in a place near the said altar which might be most convenient.
Item he ordains that the choir be re-built of the kirk of Blessed Mary of Roxburgh and there is to be made a “le sylor [ceiling] de estland burd” from one [?side] to the other and the walls of the choir to be painted and [be given] to it a chalice of 18 ounces of silver of double gilt and one [vestment] of black colour with fringe of gold. [In the kirk at] Morbottill one chalice of silver of 18 ounces and vestments of [ ?black ] with gold fringe and in the kirk of Lyndene [ a chalice] of silver of 18 ounces and double gilt. Before witnesses George Elwand and John Elwand.
47. Ker of Yair 10 Nov 1523 ( 1 Adrian) Thomas Ker in Yair came to the principal dwelling house of one third of his lands of Stevinston lying in the sheriffdom of Peebles and the regality of Dalketht of which lands with pertinents, his grandfather died last vest and seized and there on the grounds of the same the said Thomas presented a precept of sasine of the noble and potent lord James Earl of Morton, lord of Dalketh written on parchment and sealed with his seal impressed on white wax in hands of James D[owglass] requiring the said James [bailie] in that [ part] to execute the same. James accepted the precept and read it out (p/t) in the following manner: James earl of Morton lord [of Dalketht] to his bailie specially constituted in that part greet¬ings. It has been clearly shown to us that William Ker of Yair grandfather of the [said] Thomas died last vest and seized and at the faith and peace of our lord king of one third part of lands of Stevistoun with pertinents… and that the said Thomas is lawful and nearest heir to those lands of the deceased William his grandfather…to the [said] lands..and he is of lawful estate and that the said lands are held to us in chief and have been in our hands since the death of the said William…therefore we order you to give heritable sasine state and possession of the third of the said lands without delay to the said Thomas as lawful and nearest heir of the deceased William… or his right¬ful attorney following the tenor of the infeftment…save the right of whomsoever.. in testimony of which we append our seal at Dalketht 17 Sept 1523. When the precept had been read out, the bailie handed over sasine. Done at the principal dwelling house of Stevinston before witnesses James Ker, Robert Ker, ( p/t) his son, John Hoppringill, David [?Hoppringill]), ( p/t) Hoppringill, Edward Huntar, Thomas Huntar, Gilbert Sollomanes.
48. Hall 23 Dec 152[3?] the young man John [Hall],grandson of Thomas Hall elder came to the tenement of Thomas Hall his grandfather and there on the ground of the same, broke a dish [“discum”] for a sign of breaking sasine [protesting] that his grandfather said or made the said sasine on the said tenement on his own authority to Robert Hall his son [and] that it would turn to his prejudice in time to come by right. Witnesses Andrew Mak¬dowell, Walter Hall, Robert Hall and James Ker.
49. Ker 8 Oct 1524 Ann Cre[nstoun?] spouse of Andrew Ker of Cesfurd not [moved by force] or fallen in error…of her own free will…resigned all right and claim which she has or will have in and to [her] conjunct fee of lands or tenement of (p/t) Selkirk with pertinents as is contained fully in the charter made there¬on in favour of master George Ker canon of Glasgow. Robert Ker brother german of George Ker of Lyntoun procurator and in name of master George Ker sought instrument or instruments done at the tower of Halydene. Witnesses Andrew Elwand, sir Cuthbert Claper¬ton, Thomas Wolsoun.
50. Quhytheid 2 June 1525 George Ker of Lynton tutor of the children of the deceased John Lyddaill his uncle assigns or delivers to Margaret Quhytheid relict of the said deceased John Lyddaill her third part of the lands of the deceased John Lyddail [viz] 4 merks in the north part of Castletoun [ in the hands?] of (p/t) Smyth. Item 40 shillings of Dowg (p/t) on the east side of Espertoun which John (p/t) occupies. Item 13 merks on the north side (p/t) viz 4 merks occupied by John Smyth and Alexander Ra and 3 merks [ occupied] by John Waldarstoun.Item 2 merks occupied by ( p/t) myll and John Gyrnlaw. Item half merk of Marion (p/t) in Casteltoun. Witnesses Alexander Tait of Pyrne, ( p/t) Ramsay, Robert Lyddaile, John Symsone, John Smyth and John Br[oun].
51. Ker Tait 4 June 1525 George Ker of Lyn[ton] and Alex¬ander Tait of Pyrne being personally present before me notary public and witnesses underwritten, the said George Ker binds himself to compear before the official of Edinburgh and there to create and ordain the said Alexander Tait tutor to the children of the deceased John Lyddaill of Halkarstone receiving the rents and holding courts for the said children and Alexander binds himself to compear [before] the judge to this effect and on wednesday at (p/t) to provide to the said George Ker of Lyntoun (p/t) tutor of the said children sufficient and more security (p/t) than the said George knew to provide by reason and right of (p/t) for relieving and indemnifying the servants of the said George against creditors of the same deceased John Lyddail. Done at Farnele at 1 pm before witnesses master Thomas Ker archdeacon of Teviotdale, Robert Lyddaill, Antony Tait, James Kyrkhope, Thomas Freir, William Freir.
52. Ker 12 May 1526 master Thomas Ker of Sunderlandhall refutes and denies that he has accepted certain evidents viz a charter and precept of sasine of 5 merklands at Wester Blaklaw with pertinents from master George Ker rector of Aldroxburgh in hope of an agreement between himself and George Ker of Lyntoun heir of the said lands. Done in the chamber of master George Ker in Farnele at 11 am before witnesses sir William Brydin vicar of Selkirk, George Elwand chaplain, John Elwand and Thomas Robson.
53. Symsone 19 Aug 1525 George Ker of Lynton [tutor?] of the children of the deceased John Lyddaill binds himself by plighted faith to warrant and discharge a certain assedation under the seal of John Symsone of Espertoun with his sign manu¬al…to the said John [Lyddaill] for a term of five years. Done “at my chamber in Farnele” around 11 am and noon before Robert Ker german of the said George, James Tait, Henry Kyrkhope [ or possibly Elwand].
54. Ker Turnbull 27 July 1528 George Trumbill layman of the diocese of Glasgow and Christian Ker of the same diocese desir¬ing to contract a marriage within the third and fourth degrees of consanguinity handed to me notary public a certain letter of dispensation [without] impediment to read out in the following manner: To all and singular of the [faithful?] of the holy mother church to whom these present notices by letter come John Dingwall protonotary of the Holy Apostolic See, provost of the collegiate kirk of the Holy Trinity near [Edinburgh] and chancellor of the cathedral church of Aberdeen and apostolic commissioner in that part specially constituted greetings in the lord for eternity. George Turnbull layman of the diocese of Glasgow and Christian Ker [of the same] diocese have brought us a petition that they desire to be joined in holy matrimony but because they descend from common stock in the fourth and [fifth?] degrees of consan¬guinity their desire is [to obtain] a lawful dispensation. In this instance they require as procurators John Huntar in the name of William Trumbill and sir James Newtoun chaplain in the name of Christian Ker whose mandates of attorney are clearly established to us by impressions of the seals and subscriptions of sir James C[hepman] and sir John Chepman priests of the diocese of Glasgow ..,also George and Christian have been dignified with a merciful dispensation in the following tenor. We therefore (text ends here)
55. 29 (?Jan) 1529/30 master Thomas Ker of Sunderlandhall gave sasine to the heirs (p/t) with pertinents to George Ker of Lyn¬toun according to the tenor of the charter. Witnesses master William Ker rector of Aldroxburgh, Robert Ker vicar of Lyndene, John Hoppringill, James Ker in Sunderlandhall, James Ker in Aldroxburgh, William Tait and William Haldane. Done at the dwelling place at Farnele around 1 pm.
The same day the said George Ker and master Thomas [Ker] in Sunderlandhall bound themselves to implement all agreements or evidents between them not implemented by the year day and month of these presents. Witnesses as above.
56. Parishioners of Stow 3 Feb 1530 the honorable persons,
James Hoppringill, William Tait, Stephen Turnour,John Tait, James Turnour, William Inglis, James Thomson, William Hoppringill, David Hoppringill, John Fawla, Thomas Lawsoun, John Murray, John Ethingtoune,Robert Thorbrand, John Ednem, George Chisholm of that ilk, George Hoppringill, James Dalgless, Thomas Dalgless, George Dalgless, Gavin Quhit, Henry Knox, Robert Broun, William Donald¬soun, William Thomson, James Thomson, John Arcas [Arres], Richard Broun, John Blyth, Thomas Blyth, Bartholomew Cowane, James Law, John Jhonsone, William Hiltsoun, Alexander Hiltsoun, Robert Hoppringill, Andrew Ailmur, Robert Harvy, Robert Portar, (p/t) Donaldsoun, William Thomson, Thomas Thomson, (p/t), Nicholas Gray, Thomas Cowane, John Gray, John (p/t), (p/t) Donaldsoun, David Thomson, John Patersoun, (p/t) Quhit, Charles Thomson, William Cruk, David (p/t), (p/t) Tailyour, James Thomson, Adam Dikkesoun, William (p/t), (p/t) Schort, John Portus, Robert Clerk, Marion Tait, Janet Turnour, Helen Murray, Janet W(p/t), Margaret Brewhouss, Margaret Gray, Alison Burn, and He[len] Rouththeid tenants and occupiers of the lands of the lordship of [Stow in] Weddaill lying in the parish of Stow within the diocese of St Andrew pertaining to the reverend father in Christ James archbishop of the same and primate of the realm of Scotland by reason of the said office of archbishop and explained and de¬clared that it had recently come to their notice how considera¬tions on a complaint in the cause of the Roman Curia between the said reverend father on the one hand and the noble and potent Lord Borthwik on the other concerning a [point of location] of all and singular the said lands of the lordship of Stow made to the said Lord Borthwick for the space of 19 years by the deceased Andrew* archbishop of St Andrews which if put into effect they would be forcibly removed from their fields and possessions, territory and houses which they and their predecessors had occu¬pied without harm from time immemorial…and reduce them to extreme poverty. The which persons compearing and acting and defending their own interest in the said cause depending in the Roman Curia . Done within the bounds of the said parish of Stow in a succession of hours between 7 am and 5 pm before witnesses Robert Tait,George (p/t), (p/t) Millar, William Murray, Robert Wythman, sir Thomas Hoppringill.
*i.e. Andrew Forman 1514 -1521.
57. Hoppringill 3 Feb 1531 Margaret Lundy spouse of David Hoppringill of Smaillem asserts that the said David has a mar¬riage contract of George Brown of Colstone… and the said Marga¬ret requests that he take in marriage either Janet or Margaret Hoppringill, her daughters, as pleases the said David. Margaret in the name of her spouse sought instrument, done here [ie Smail¬holm] at 9 am before witnesses sir David Gray and Thomas Hopprin¬gill chaplains, James Ker, Thomas Bykkertoun and Thomas Fergref laymen.
58. Ker 8 May 1531 Walter Ker of Cesfurd came to the prin¬cipal dwelling house of the lands of Hassindenbank with perti¬nents lying in the sheriffdom of Roxburgh…of which the deceased Andrew Ker of Cesfurd his father died last vest and seized and there gave a certain precept of sasine of the noble Sir William Cunygham, lord of fee of the lands of Glencarn and superior of Hassindenbank sealed with red and white seals and bearing sign manual to [?Robert] Chepman bailie in that part which was handed to the notary to read out in following form: William Cunygham knight lord of fee of the lands and [said] barony and superior of the underwritten lands to… Robert Chepman and my bailies in that part specially constituted conjunctly and severally.. greet¬ings. Because it is clearly shown to me by evidents and docu¬ments that the deceased Andrew Ker of Cesfurd father of the said Walter Ker died last vest and seized at peace and faith of our lord king of all the lands of Hassindenbank with pertinents lying within the sheriffdom of Roxburgh and that the said Walter is his nearest and lawful heir to his father to the said lands with pertinents and that he is of lawful estate and that it is held in chief of me as superior, I command you or your rightful attorney to give sasine of the said lands in tenor of an old infeftment made before without delay to the said Walter or his rightful attorney…save the right of whomsoever taking the security of doing [this] to me as superior of the said [lands] because it is held to be done by [law]… in testimony of which I append my sign manual and seal at Streviling on 1 May 1531. Witnesses master John Colden, John Boid, Troilus McGw and master John Peblis notary public.
Note below “Wilym master [of] Glencarn”.
59. Ker (p/t) Feb 1531 Patrick [Murray] of Fawlahill declared that he owed 100 teind sheaves of corn to Mark Ker tacksman [to the kirk] of St Mary of the forest from his [lands] of Hanging¬schaw for the payment of which the said Patrick made the said Mark Ker his assignee to uplift the payment …from his husband¬lands of Selkirk £10 scots at Whitsunday next to come after the day and date of these presents and 10 merks of the same money uplifted at Martinmas next and immediately following and 10 merks at the feast of Whitsunday next and immediately following. Mark Ker sought instrument done at Carterhauch at 10 am or thereabouts before witnesses master William Ker rector of Aldroxburgh, Thomas Ker of Sunderlandhall, James Ker his brother german, George Ker of Lynton and William Ker.
60. Halyburton 26 May 1531 Roland Trottar bailie in that part for the honourable women and men Marion Home, with consent of spouse George Lord Home and Margaret Ker with consent of her spouse George Ker tutor of Cesfurd, came to the principal dwell¬ing place of Boltoun and there on their command sought to speak to Patrick Hebburn master of Halis in which the son of Patrick master of Halis in the name of the [said] Patrick, with certain servants of theirs obstructed the said Rolland saying that he could not enter until (p/t) he was seeing hitherto. Done at the door of the said place [ie.Boltoun] at around 9 am before wit¬nesses James Ker, Andrew Mudy, Thomas Synklar, John Gray.
61. Ker in Yair 27 July 1531 Thomas Ker in Yair respectfully requested Patrick Murray of Fawlahill to give him state posses¬sion and sasine of lands Crenstounryddaill with pertinents as lord superior of these lands which at that time Patrick Murray refused to do [because] he wished [them] to belong to friends. Thomas Ker sought instrument done near the door of Farnele at around 2 pm before witnesses George Ker of Lynton, James Ker, William Tait, David Murray and William Ker.
62. Ker August 1531 sir Laurence Jhonson in name of master Thomas Ker, requests Patrick Murray of Fawlahill for a sasine of his lands with pertinents of Crenstoun Ryddaill which the said Patrick refused to do. Sir Laurence sought instrument done at hall of Farnele around 3 pm before John Mathosone, William Ker, William Tait, James Dowglass.
63. Ker 8 Oct 1531 William Vaiche on the part of Thomas Ker of Yair requested Patrick Murray of Fawlahill superior of the lands of Crenstounryddaill to give sasine of the same to Thomas Ker and Patrick Murray asserted that he did not wish to deny him sasine but wishes to know whether the said Thomas has sufficient evidents of the said lands or not. Done at Byrkindalyschank before witnesses Thomas Murray, James Murray, James Murray and James Vaiche.
64. Patrick Murray of Fawlahill 8 Oct 1531. This entry is very faint.It seems to record that William Vaiche on part of Thomas Ker asked Patrick Murray to give sasine of the above lands to Thomas Ker and Patrick enquired by whose command he asked and that he had no mandate unless on the word or precept of the king. Patrick Murray sought instrument, done at Byrkindalyschank before witnesses Thomas Murray, James Murray, John Vaiche.
65. Rutherfurd 9 April 1532. [ The first part of this instru¬ment is mainly illegible] David Hoppringill (p/t) and superior of the lands of [Cavirhill?] on his own free will revokes re¬nounce and annuls wards reliefs and a marriage contract [given] on the [lands] of Caverhill with pertinents so that…by whatever right on such terms that (illegible) after which revocation…of the above wards etc of the lands of Caverhill with pertinents belonging to him and [held from] his superior (blank) Ruthirfurd of Honthill he gives and freely hands over (p/t). Done at the hall of Galloschelles at 9 am before witnesses John Hoppringill son and apparent heir of the said David, George Preston of Crag¬millar, David Farle of Cranstoun, Archibald Cunygham, William Synklar, sir Thomas Hoppringill.
66. Hoppringill 15 April 1532 sir Thomas Hoppringill in the name of David Hoppringill of Smallame had in his hands a certain form of appeal to the papal see which he handed to me notary public to [make public] in the following tenor “With this appeal or plea etc”. Which after reading out the said sir Thomas Hop-pringill on part of the said David Hoppringill has from the abbot and his monks of Melrose the appeal to the [pope] Clement at the holy see. Witnesses George Ker of Lyntoune, James Ker of Farnele, Barnard Ker and John Hog of ( illegible).
67. Scot of Howpaslot 23 April 1532 Walter Scot bailie in that part of Janet Scot, daughter and heir of the deceased [Walter] Scot of Howpaslot, holds in his hands a precept of sasine written on parchment with the seal of the said Janet and her spouse Thomas Makdowell and handed it to me notary public to read out in the following way: Janet Scot daughter and heir of the deceased Walter Scot of Howpaslot and her spouse Thomas Makdowell of Mak[er]stoun to Walter Scot etc my bailie in that part specially constituted greetings. Because with consent and assent of my spouse I have sold and alienated heritably all my ten merklands of Berkinsyd with pertinents lying in the sheriff¬dom of Berwick as contained fully in charter to the said [Rob¬ert], I therefore command you to give heritable sasine and possession to Robert Scot or his rightful attorney according to the tenor of the said charter…in testimony of which I append my seal and the seal of my spouse at Edinburgh 20 March 1532.
Janet Scot with my hand at the pen. Thomas Makdowell of Maker¬stoun with my hand at the pen.
Alexander Young notary public in witness of the above.
After which…the bailie gave heritable state, sasine and pos¬session of the said ten merklands of Byrkinsyd with pertinents to Robert Scot personally present and accepting…according to the charter made thereon save the right of whomsoever. Robert Scot sought instrument or instruments done on the ground of the same around 10 am before witnesses Adam Hoppringill, William Bannan¬tyn, Henry Wynterhope, Gilbert Wynter, Thomas Gibson, Thomas Gibson officer.
68. Dykesone 21 May 1533 William Dykesone came to the principal dwelling house of Ormstoun and there gave all of the ten poundlands of Ormstoun with tower and pertinents to his cousin John Dykesone following letters of command of the king before witnesses Ralph Ker, Bernard Ker, James Tait, William Steill, John Lawson, Alexander Carstars, William Jhonson and James Jhonson.
69. Jhonson 28 May 1533 Thomas Jhonsone burgess of the burgh of Selkirk freely resigns all his tenement to Thomas Jhon¬sone younger, son of John Jhonsone, his heir by handing over earth and stones reserving liferent to himself and his spouse. Witnesses sir Ninian Brydin, sir William Brydin vicar of [Sel¬kirk] and Robert Chepman.
70. Ker (p/t) Dec 1534 James [Matho?] and Marion Lermont his spouse declared themselves well content that Robert Ker will have half of all the profits of their 5 merklands if the said Robert will make a profit on “le steding” in their name and also pay the expenses of litigation in bringing the said lawsuit in court before the bailies of Calco. Done in the kirk of Calco before witnesses Thomas Matho chaplain, William Ker, Mark Ker.
71. Ker 26 March 1535 Andrew Young produced his instrument of the parish clerkship of Morbottill confirmed by deceased master George Ker canon of Glasgow and handed it to the notary public to be read out. After which the said George Ker of Corbethouss protested that this instrument should not turn to his prejudice in respect of any right or claim which he had or might have to the parish clerkship of Morbottill. Done in the kirkyard of Morbottill around 9 am before witnesses sir John Ker vicar of Morbottil, John Young of Sesfurd, Robert of Crukit Schawis.
72. Ker 2 April 1535 William Wod younger procurator in the name of Thomas [Ker] of Yair, came to the principal dwelling house of master George Hay and there forewarned the said master George to compear within 40 days in the collegiate church of St Giles in Edinburgh and there on the altar of St James to receive the sum of 100 merks scots and this for the redemption of a [fifth?] part of the lands of Stenstoun according to the tenor of his letter of reversion made before to the said Thomas. Done in the dwelling place of the said master George before witnesses George Ker of Corbethouse and William Wode elder.
73. Lundy [10?] Feb 1536/7 before me notary public and witnesses underwritten, compeared in the court house of Lawder, George Wethirheid sheriff depute for the court [and] sir Thomas Hoppringill on the part of Margaret Lundy relict of the deceased David Hoppringill of Smallam and of the conjunct fee of Pilmuir… asked the said George as depute to prove his power to sit in the said court in place of the sheriff and the said George refused and he said that he wanted to sit with the power he had of death and mutilation. Secondly sir Thomas alleges they were [not] lawfully arrested by a precept of the sheriff (p/t) and the same did not proceed and was not in his name. Thirdly he alleges that he has paid the rents and customary dues of the said Marga¬ret Lundy for the tenants also that [there elapsed] from the said judgement 100 days to his calling to warrant the said tenants which he denied. Fourthly, the same protests because he was acting in the court on that day, it turned to his prejudice of his rights. Fifthly he was questioned by master James Crenstoun advocate for the opponent on whose part he was proxy who ren¬[dered?] on part of William Murray sometime factor of the rector of Lawder. Sixthly the same accepts the exception against the judgement of the deputy alleging that the same was deputy for the lord of Haltoun who was judge, also he suspected that half the mill belonged to the lord of Halton.
sir Thomas Hoppringill sought instrument. Done in the Court House at Lawder at 12 am before witnesses Thomas Crenstoun of Dodds, Cuthbert Crenstoun, Richard Lawder, master James Crenstoun, George Wauchthop, Charles Murray, sir Peter Hyltsone notary public.
74. Ker 13 May 1536 master Robert Ker vicar of Lyndene [next part scored out but narrates that he had a letter of donation of Walter Ker of Cesfurd of the preceptory of “le masyndew” near Roxburgh written on parchment and sealed with red and white seals impressed on wax and handed to the same notary to read out] came to the preceptory or hospital of Masindew [near] Roxburgh and handed a (p/t [letter of donation]) from his father [Walter Ker] of Cesfurd to sir Thomas Kirkhope curate of (p/t) asking him to execute the said letters and sir Thomas handed them to me notary public to read out in the following way “To all and sundry etc”, after which sir Thomas invested master Robert Ker canon of the said hospital or preceptory by taking chalice, books, vestments and missals of the said preceptory forever in tenor of the said donation and master Thomas curate handed over real actual and corporeal possession of the preceptory forever. Done at the high altar of the said preceptory. [ No witnesses given.]
75. Ker in Yair 22 April 1536 William Wod younger procurator for Thomas Ker in Yair, came to the presence of John Sandelandis and personally apprehended as possessor of the 6 husbandlands of Bold to compear (blank) May next at Blessed Mary the Virgin of Selkirk and there to receive payment of the said sum of 240 merks scots in the church of St Bride, at the High Altar of the same to receive payment of the sum of 120 merks as specified in a letter of reversion to the same Thomas under a redemption. Done at the chapel of Saint Mary Magdalene at Bold at 11 am before witnesses Hector Crenstoun, Thomas Paterson, Adam Vallance, George Purves.
76. Same day and hour John Sandelandis enquired from William Wod concerning which lands he was warned to receive the money. William said for the six husbandlands. John Sandelandis sought instrument done in the same place before witnesses above [75].
A number of pages are missing from the text here.
77. Ryddaill Ker 5 May 1545 James Ryddaill younger son of John Ryddaill of that ilk, came to his lands of “le ester place” and there gave state and sasine of 30 shillings of land with half the houses, buildings and easements with other pertinents to his wife Janet Ker in liferent, the said Janet being personally present and accepting delivery of staff and baton. Janet sought instrument done in the said place at 9 am before witnesses George Ker of Gait Schaw, Walter Ryddaill heir apparent of the lord of Ryddaill and [John?] Ryddaill.
The same day John Ryddaill of that ilk, superior of the lands of ester place, declared that he ratified and confirmed the said sasine before the above witnesses.
78. 16 July 1526 [3 Clement VII] John Bard, lord of Posso and Janet Scot, daughter of the deceased Walter Scot, lord of Howpa¬slot brought to me notary public, a marriage contract between them by showing no impediment etc by reason of a dispensation to marry and appoints the priests sir [William] Braidfut and sir John Keyne together with William Lawder, ( p/t) Hendersone, William Askirk, William Haw, Thomas Jhonsone…actors, factors etc to act jointly on their behalf and to receive the said dis¬pensation on their behalf to prove the legitimacy of their de¬scendants before the reverend in Christ master Gilbert Strathath¬quhan, commissary in that part. Done at Farnele at [ blank] am. John Chepman notary public with his own hand.
I sir John Chepman priest of the diocese of Glasgow and notary public subscribe my signet and sign manual on this present letter of assignation of special mandate A of B not knowing how to write with his hand placed on the pen.
79. [ The first part of this deed is missing]. 5 May 1547
and failing this the nearest heir…to all our 5 merk¬lands and town of Nethirblanislee with houses, buildings and yard thereupon called Le Roun and with crofts…lying in runrig which the said Andrew occupies with his subtenants and family in the sheriffdom of Roxburgh and lordship of Melrose, whatsoever land and town of Nethirblanislee with within these boundaries and divisions above mentioned and limits and [?markers] that is to say from the west descending to a burn called “Le Mossburn” and from there ascending and extending towards the east to “Le Hol¬litcarne” and from there ascending and extending towards the east to the stone called “Le Standingdstane in Routhrig” and from here descending and extending towards the east to the wall called the March Dyk or otherwise the Monksdyke and from here extending towards the north to the chapel walls called the Chapel Walls or alias ” Cheildkellis Chapell Wallis” and from there extending and descending through the burn called Mylsyburn and from here ex¬tending towards the south and ascending to that cross called “Liells Corce” and from here extending and ascending towards the south to that cross called the Hie Cross and from here extending and descending towards the south to that part of the burn called “Helburinsfurd” and from here extending and descending through the said burn towards the east to the lands called “Wilkyni-shaugh” and from here extending and descending towards the south to the old acquaduct called the “Ald Watirgang de Myd¬streyme de Ledir “and from here extending and descending towards the south from the said aquaduct and in the middle of the same to the boundary called the “Erliss Aker” and from here extending and ascending towards the west through the burn called Hawik Scheil¬burn to that loch called the Oair Loucht and from here extending and ascending towards the west to the public highway called the “Common Mercate Gait” and from here extending and descending to¬wards the west to the said place the “Willebush” near the old dyke called the “Ald Dyk in Wyndelawcruke” and from here extend¬ing and ascending towards the north through the burn called the Blackburn to the Blakfurd of the same burn and from here extend¬ing and ascending towards the north to the middle of the ” Hel-moss” and from here extending and descending towards the north through the middle of the Helmoss to the same burn called “Le Mosburne” lying as it comes (illegible ) in the lordship of Melrose within the county of Roxburgh between the lands of the forest of Lauder on the north part, of the lands of the monastery of Dryburgh on the south, the lands of the Lord of Halton called Quhitslaide and the lands of the said Dryburgh monastry and lands of Byrkkinsyde towards the east and the lands of the said monas¬tery of Melross called Colmsliehill and Threpwodschaw towards the west.
Now we therefore command you to give sasine and possession with¬out delay of all the 5 merklands and town of Nethirblanisle with houses etc and a yard thereto called “Le Rone” with crofts and part of the same lands lying in runrig to the said Andrew his subtenants occupied with all rights and privileges and pertinents by the said Andrew in free tenantry or liferent for his lifetime. Also a heritable sasine thereupon he delivers to the said George or his rightful attorney following the tenor of the charter made before…with no ommissions…in testimony of which our seal and sign manual also the seal of our head court and sign manual of the convent is appended at our monastery of Melross 5 May 1547 with the subscription of James commendator of Melross, Richard Patonson subprior, Thomas Mercer, John Watson, Mungo Purves, David Hoppringill, John Hogart, Bernard Bowston, William Fylpe, Richard Chatto and John Foross. After reading out the precept the bailie in that part John Fledschair by virtue of his office gave heritable state sasine and possession of the 5 merklands of Nethirblanislie called “lie Rone” with pertinents to Andrew Hop¬pringill and his heirs personally present and accepting by hand¬ing over earth and stones on the ground of the same ..save the right of whomsoever. Andrew Hoppringill sought instrument done at “Le Rone Hall” at 10 am before witnesses George Daveson, James Swynhouss, James Swynhouss, John Swynhouss, William Hall and William Stirling.
80. Hoppringill of Trynillin Know 21 May 1547 Alexander Hoppringill of Trynnilinknowe says that Queen Mary’s officer sum¬moned without command, Adam Gray to appear before the Lords of Council to implement a certain contract between him and Janet Liddaile lady of Halkerstoun, about which no letters or even a copy of letters testify. Witnesses John Hoppringill of Smailhame, George Hoppringill of Torwodlie, James Hoppringill of Quhitbank, Robert Hoppringill of Blyndlee, sir Stephen Synklar.
81. Mathosone 29 May 1547 Andrew Mathosone acknowledged he is content and …fully paid for a certain cow which was sold by him to his brother David Mathosone in Yair except for an ell of “albepannii” [= white cloth? ] to make him a pair of hose worth 3 shillings…and quitclaims the same cow to his brother. David sought instrument done at the valley of Farnele at 6 pm. Wit¬nesses James Freir, William Freir and Richard Freir.
82. Hoppringill of Smailhame 11 June 1547 Thomas Huntar in Hawkburn came to the five merklands and town of Nethirblanisle in the lordship of Melross within the sheriffdom of Roxburgh then occupied by Thomas Smyth with part of the said lands lying in runrig and gave sasine of 32 shilling lands of the said five merklands and town etc to John Hoppringill of Smailhame and Margaret Gordone his spouse in conjunct fee and their heirs… and assignees personally present and accepting by handing over earth and stones according to the form of a charter by the said Thomas made thereon save the right of whomsoever. John and Marga¬ret sought instruments done at the principal dwelling place of the 5 merklands and town of Nethirblanisle at 10 am before master Robert Hoppringill rector of Moirhame, John Spottiswod, William Hoppringill, William Spottiswode and Thomas Huntar younger.
The same day John Hoppringill enquired of the said Thomas Huntar elder if that was his own seal appended to his charter delivered to him and his spouse of the above 32 shilling lands, which the said Thomas affirmed. Also the said Thomas promised to pay John and Margaret whichever lives longer and their heirs 8 bolls of barley on the feast of the purification of our lady yearly as a rent on the 32 shilling lands before witnesses as above.
83. Ker of Dalcoif 13 Aug 1547 Robert Newton attorney in the name of Adam Ker of Schaw and Janet Newton lady of Dalcoif his spouse whose power of attorney is clearly shown to me notary public came to the lands of Merssyntoun lying in the sheriffdom of Berwik and there on the grounds of the same handed a precept of sasine of our lady queen under testimony of the Great Seal to the bailie in that part Alexander Strang ensign [“signifero”] requesting he execute the same…and the bailie handed it to me notary public to read out in the following words: Mary by the grace of God queen of Scots to her sheriffs and bailies of Berwik and Roxburgh also to Alexander Strang [“maser”?] greetings. Be¬cause we have given and granted to Adam Ker of Schaw and his spouse Janet Newton lady of Dalcoif which ever lives longer in conjunct fee all the lands of Marsingtoun with pertinents extend¬ing to 20 pound lands of old extent and now worth £100 yearly lying in our sheriffdom of Berwik, 23 shillings and 11 penny worths of land of old extent and 10 merk lands of Cesfurd Mains now worth £5 19s 7d and 21 shillings of land of old extent of Cesfurd Mains within the sheriffdom of Roxburgh which were owned by James Ker of Marsington and apprised for a debt in sum of £2119 80s 4d which was recovered from the said Adam Ker and Janet Newton together with the sheriffs fee of £105 and which lacking moveable goods to distrain from the said James Ker the said sums were assigned to Adam and Janet in accordance with an Act of Parliament and royal letters as contained fully in the charter made before, we therefore command you Adam and Janet to take sasine of the said lands without delay according to the tenor of our charter dated under the testimony of the Great Seal at Edin¬burgh on 4 July 1547. After which the bailie gave sasine of the said lands to the attorney Robert Newton by handing over earth and stones on the ground of the same save the right of whomsoev¬er. Robert sought instrument done on the ground of the lands of Marsingtoun around 10 am before Cuthbert Curror, Alexander Strang, Robert Hwme living in Eklis.
Final page : “Liber Dominus Johannes Chepman [11 times]
“Hic liber est meus possum producere testes/ si quis me querit Johannes mihi nomen erit/ Chepman iungatur mihi nominator/ iam fert totum per Iesum Christum da mihi [potu..?]”.