Focused excerpt (full relevant paragraph):

“…of the whole wreats belonging to the Citie of Edinburgh, conteaning ther whole lands, customes, and priuiledges perteaning to theme; collected and digested be Maister Alexander Guthrie, Commond Clerk to the said Citie, as they are conteaned in seuerall boxes of thair cabinetts presentlie sett up in thair chartour house.” This Inventory bears to have been prepared in 1638.

Focused excerpt:

Guthrie’s Inventory.—Inventory of the whole Writs belonging to the City; “conteaning their whole Lands, Customs, and Privileges perteaning to them.” Collected and digested by Mr Alexander Guthrie, Common Clerk, in 1638 ; 1 volume.

Focused excerpt (relevant line):

1454, November 4. Tolls exigible from ships and boats coming into Leith made perpetual, [Original Charter in the Archives of the City. Guthrie’s Inventory, fol. 7, No. 4. Inventory of City Charters, Vol. IV., p. 5.] – – – – 14

Focused excerpts (source citations only, as no primary Guthrie involvement in the charter texts):

• [33.] … Guthrie’s Inventory of City Charters, p. 7, No. 10.
• [35.] … Guthrie’s Inventory of City Charters, p. 86.

(The charters themselves concern grants by Sir Robert Logan to the Burgesses of Edinburgh regarding Leith port facilities, roads, and land use.)

Focused excerpt (citation only):

[43.] … Guthrie’s Inventory of City Charters, p. 80.

(The charter grants the Burgesses and Community lands within the burgh that were in arrears of rents.)

Focused excerpts (citations only):

• [49.] … Guthrie’s Inventory of City Charters, p. 7, No. 4
• [50.] … Guthrie’s Inventory of City Charters, p. 7, No. 3

(The documents concern perpetual duties at Leith port and the holding of the Court of the Four Burghs at Edinburgh.)

Focused excerpt (citation only):

[54.] … Guthrie’s Inventory of City Charters, p. 176.

(The document concerns the annexation of the Hospital of Soltray to the Collegiate Church and Hospital of the Holy Trinity.)

Focused excerpt (citation on p. 330):

… Guthrie’s Inventory of City Charters, p. 7. No. 6.

(The 1472 charter by James III requires contributions for fortifying Edinburgh against potential English invasion, with penalties for non-compliance.)

Focused excerpts (citations on p. 335):

• [81.] … Guthrie’s Inventory of City Charters, p 8, No. 13.
• [82.] … Guthrie’s Inventory of City Charters, p. 7, No. 7, p. 21, No. 5, p. 111.

(The 1507 letter confirms All Hallow Fair dates and privileges; the 1508 charter grants powers over common lands/muirs.)

Focused excerpts (citations):

• [84.] … Guthrie’s Inventory of City Charters, p. 39.
• [85.] … Guthrie’s Inventory of City Charters, p. 3, No. 4.

(The 1510 confirmation ratifies earlier charters (including Logan 1398 and James III grants); the second grants lands and harbour of Newhaven with associated rights.)

The document is already in clear modern English. Key excerpts include:

From p. 1 (formation of the Society): “The value of the early Records of the Burghs of Scotland… has been fully recognised… The Spalding Club has given the country a peculiarly interesting and valuable series of extracts from the Records of the Burgh of Aberdeen, while the Maitland Club has published notices from the Records of Dysart, and extracts from the Burgh Records of Glasgow, Prestwick, Edinburgh, and Canongate. Apart, however, from what has been done in regard to Aberdeen, it cannot be said that much more has been effected than merely to break ground… this Society has been formed for the special purpose of undertaking the work.”

From p. 2 (progress update, dated Edinburgh, December 1871): “A volume of Extracts from the oldest Records of the City of Edinburgh, extending from 1403 till 1528… was delivered to the members during March 1870. A second volume, containing Extracts from these Records, and Selections from the Accounts of the Treasurers and Deans of Guild of the City, down to 1556–7, is now ready for issue…”

From p. 7 (Guthrie entries in the Members list): “J. Guthrie Smith, Esq., Sheriff of Aberdeen and Kincardine. J. Guthrie Smith, Esq. of Woodside, Hamilton.”

Original text: “24 December 1574. Followis the articlis producit be the dekynnis of craftis before the baillies and counsale foresaid, quhilk thay ordane to be registrat. The articles to be proponit and gevin in be the dekynnis and craftis-men to my loird provest baillies and counsale of this burgh desyring the samyn articles to be considerit for ane gude ordour to be obseruit in this commoun weill in tyme cumyng.

In the first, that the act and ordinance to be maid anent the burgessis toward the rasing of thair burgesschip to xx lib. and gildry to xl libris, that it be maid be ane minute to be gevin be the deaconis as the saidis provest and counsall desyrit thame to do, the quhilk minute was gevin in to Alexander Guthre, commoun clark, twa syndry tymes desyring thairfoir that the act to be maid heirefter thairanent be maid according to the minute vtherwayes that na burgesschippis nor gildrie be raisit heichar nor thay war of befoir.”

Modern English translation: 24 December 1574. Follows the articles produced by the deacons of crafts before the bailies and council foresaid, which they ordain to be registered. The articles to be proposed and given in by the deacons and craftsmen to my lord provost, bailies and council of this burgh desiring the same articles to be considered for a good order to be observed in this common weal in time coming.

In the first, that the act and ordinance to be made concerning the burgesses toward the raising of their burgesship to £20 and gildry to £40, that it be made by a minute to be given by the deacons as the said provost and council desired them to do, the which minute was given in to Alexander Guthre, common clerk, two sundry times desiring therefore that the act to be made hereafter thereanent be made according to the minute; otherwise that no burgesships nor gildry be raised higher nor they were before.

Original text: “1 July 1575. [The bailies and council] efter avisement of my Lord Regentis Grace writing send to thame, willing thame to satifie Nicholace Ganysford, Inglisman, procuratour for Walter Dule, alsua Inglisman, indueller in Byrsto, in Ingland, according to his Graces commonyng with the baillies of before, for eschewing of the spulze libellit be the said Dull for his schip allegit taikin fra him in Lochbrowme in anno 1566, or vtherwise to send his Grace ansuer that he may provide remeid. Be the quhilk writing, jugeing his Grace to be angry, and for eschewing of forther anger, thay all in ane voce, as of before, ordane James Ros, Jhonn Adamsoun, James Guthre, and Robert Galbrayth, to evance euery ane of thame the sowme of xxvi li. [blank] for fulfilliing of thair promys maid to my said Lord Regentis Grace, satifeing of the said Ganysford, and eschewing of the said spulze.”

Modern English translation: 1 July 1575. [The bailies and council] after advisement of my Lord Regent’s Grace writing sent to them, willing them to satisfy Nichollace Ganysford, Englishman, procurator for Walter Dule, also Englishman, indweller in Byrsto, in England, according to his Grace’s communing with the bailies before, for eschewing of the spulzie libelled by the said Dule for his ship alleged taken from him in Lochbrowne in the year 1566, or otherwise to send his Grace answer that he may provide remedy. By the which writing, judging his Grace to be angry, and for eschewing of further anger, they all in one voice, as before, ordain James Ros, John Adamsoun, James Guthre, and Robert Galbrayth, to advance every one of them the sum of £26 [blank] for fulfilling of their promise made to my said Lord Regent’s Grace, satisfying of the said Ganysford, and eschewing of the said spulzie.

Original text: “15 November 1576. Walter Cant, sumtyme baillie of Leith, vnder the prouest and baillies foirsaidis, delyueris to Alexander Guthre, thair commoun clark, the auld commoun seill of Leith, and askit instrumentis.”

Modern English translation: 15 November 1576. Walter Cant, sometime bailie of Leith, under the provost and bailies foresaid, delivers to Alexander Guthre, their common clerk, the old common seal of Leith, and asked instruments.

Original text: “30 August 1577. The provest, baillies, and counsall ordanis Andrew Sklater, Robert Kar, Alexander Guthre, the morn to pas to my Lord Regentis Grace for the ordour to be taikin concerning the army ordanit to convene at Harlaw Wod; and report thair answer the nixt counsall day.”

Modern English translation: 30 August 1577. The provost, bailies, and council ordain Andrew Sklater, Robert Kar, [and] Alexander Guthre, the morn [tomorrow] to pass to my Lord Regent’s Grace for the order to be taken concerning the army ordained to convene at Harlaw Wood; and report their answer the next council day.

Original text: “15 January 1577–8. The prouest, baillies, and counsale ordanis Alexander Guthre and Alexander King to gadder the townys euidentis quhilk thay haue in thair handis, and pit thame in the townys charterhous, and ordanis Robert Kar, Henry Chardis, baillies, Jhonne Arnot, and maister Jhonne Prestoun, to be present at the inputting of thame in the said charterhous, and that nane heirefter be taikin furth of the said charterhous without ane speciall ordinance of the counsale laide in the chartour almy subscriuit with the resauer.”

Modern English translation: 15 January 1577–8. The provost, bailies, and council ordain Alexander Guthre and Alexander King to gather the town’s evidents which they have in their hands, and put them in the town’s charterhouse, and ordain Robert Kar, Henry Chardis, bailies, John Arnot, and master John Prestoun, to be present at the inputting of them in the said charterhouse, and that none hereafter be taken forth of the said charterhouse without a special ordinance of the council laid in the charter almonry subscribed with the treasurer.

Original text: “19 March 1577–8. The baillies and counsale ordanis maister Jhonne Prestoun, maister Beggeris, Jhonne Marioribankis, James Guthre, and Dauid Damelstoun to convene the morne, at vij houris in the counsall hous, to tak ordour for the sturdy beggerris and lipper folkis.”

Modern English translation: 19 March 1577–8. The bailies and council ordain master John Prestoun, master Beggeris, John Marioribankis, James Guthre, and David Damelstoun to convene tomorrow, at 7 o’clock in the council house, to take order for the sturdy beggars and leper folk.

Original text: “26 July 1578. The ballies, counsall, and deakynnis being convenit in the counsalhous quhair the dissyris of the Lordis aboue wrytin war proponit, quhilk hard and considerit thei, all in ane voce, ordanes Henreis Chartouris and Jhonne Robertsoun, ballies, maister Jhonne Prestoun, Alexander Clerk, Alexander Guthre, and Dauid Damelstoun of the counsall to pas to their lordships efter now and to schawe that this is the Kyngis fre towne, in the quhilk all the Kyngis fre leges salbe welcum indifferentlie, and as to the pairteis contendan, thei hawe to do with nather of tham, nother will thei jiune with tham in their particularis, bot only serwe the Kyng to quhom thei ar only subiect, and to nan vtheris, and therfor maist humblie desyris their lordships to keip guid rewill within this towne, and gif it pleis tham to discharge their suldartis, this towne salbe their gard sa lang as the Kyng is nocht in the contrare.”

Modern English translation: 26 July 1578. The bailies, council, and deacons being convened in the council house where the desires of the Lords above written were proposed, which heard and considered, they, all in one voice, ordain Henry Chartouris and John Robertson, bailies, master John Prestoun, Alexander Clerk, Alexander Guthre, and David Damelstoun of the council to pass to their lordships after noon and to show that this is the King’s free town, in which all the King’s free lieges shall be welcome indifferently, and as to the parties contending, they have to do with neither of them, neither will they join with them in their particulars, but only serve the King to whom they are only subject, and to none others, and therefore most humbly desire their lordships to keep good rule within this town, and if it pleases them to discharge their soldiers, this town shall be their guard so long as the King is not in the contrary.

Original text: “7 August 1578. William Littill, in presens of the counsall, delyueris to Alexander Guthre, clark, the gift of the hospitall; and askit instrumentis.”

Modern English translation: 7 August 1578. William Littill, in presence of the council, delivers to Alexander Guthre, clerk, the gift of the hospital; and asked instruments.

“… efter lang resoning it is concludit that Alexander Vduart and Jhonne Robertson, baillies, James Ros, maister Jhonne Preston, James Guthre, James Inglis, and Patrick Sandelandis, suld pas to the saidis lordis efter none, and schaw thame that they war the Kingis frie lieges, occuppearis and inhabitantis of this his frie burgh and subiect to his Maiestie onlie, of quhome they held thair landis, and wald joyne with na vther persones in thair particularis, bot wald keip thair towne frie till all the Kingis frie lieges quha suld be welcum heir at all tymes; and this ansuer they ordane thame to geve to the said lordis, and forther to desyre thame that they mak na trubill within this towne, and they suld have all vther lawfull plesour in thair power.”

Modern English translation: … after long reasoning it is concluded that Alexander Vduart and John Robertson, bailies, James Ros, master John Preston, James Guthre, James Inglis, and Patrick Sandelandis, should pass to the said Lords after noon, and show them that they were the King’s free lieges, occupiers and inhabitants of this his free burgh and subject to His Majesty only, of whom they held their lands, and would join with no other persons in their particulars, but would keep their town free till all the King’s free lieges who should be welcome here at all times; and this answer they ordain them to give to the said Lords, and further to desire them that they make no trouble within this town, and they should have all other lawful pleasure in their power.

Original text (combined from both pages): “11 November 1578. The prouest, baillies, counsall, and dekynis vnderstanding Johnne Dalmeho in Leith to hai obtenit ane gift of that pairt of the landis lyand in their bulwark, sumtyme callit the commoun closetis and of new callit the burs; and that he hes the Kingis confirmatioun thairvpoun vnder his Hienes greit seill with precept of sesing as accordis; Quhairfoir they ordane Andrew Stevensoun, thesaurer, to delyuer to the said Johnne sovme of ane hundreth merkis for his rycht and titill thairof and the pertinentis, the said Johnne resignand the samyn in the handis of ane of the baillies of Leith for heritabill infeftment to be gevin to the towne and their successouris thairof, the saidis Johnnis titillis and evidentis being delyuerit to Alexander Guthre and Alexander Vdert conforme to the appoyntment maid be thame with the said Johnne at the command of the provest, baillies, and counsall foirsaid.”

Modern English translation: 11 November 1578. The provost, bailies, council, and deacons understanding John Dalmeho in Leith to have obtained a gift of that part of the lands lying in their bulwark, sometime called the common closets and of new called the burs; and that he has the King’s confirmation thereupon under His Highness’s great seal with precept of sasine as accords; Wherefore they ordain Andrew Stevensoun, treasurer, to deliver to the said John the sum of one hundred merks for his right and title thereof and the pertinents, the said John resigning the same in the hands of one of the bailies of Leith for heritable infeftment to be given to the town and their successors thereof, the said John’s titles and evidents being delivered to Alexander Guthre and Alexander Vdert conform to the appointment made by them with the said John at the command of the provost, bailies, and council foresaid.

“30 January 1578–9. … it was menit be the said collectour, that in default of the jugeis to quhom commissioun wes giffin to sit and juge on sic caussis, and in default of vtheris members of court neidfull, sic as clerk, dempster, serriand, wer nocht as yit nominat, sworne, and admittit thairto… quhairfore he desyrit the saidis commissaris to be send for, and according to thair commissiounis to begin vpoun Moninday nixt…

quhilk hard, ressonit be the awyis of the baillies and counsell afoir writtin, and avysandlie considerit, thay nominati, makis, constituittis, and ordanis maister Alexander Guthrie, eldest sone to Alexander Guthrie, thair commoun clerk, thair clerk to the saidis commissioneris, quha in thair presence being sworne, gaif his ayth for faithfull execution of the said office; and thay ordane thairfoir the collectouris present and to cum, to gif him yeirlie for his panes the sowme of threttie pundis vsuall money of this realm.”

Modern English translation: 30 January 1578–9. … it was meant by the said collector, that in default of the judges to whom commission was given to sit and judge on such causes, and in default of other members of court needful, such as clerk, dempster, sergeant, were not as yet nominated, sworn, and admitted thereto… wherefore he desired the said commissioners to be sent for, and according to their commissions to begin upon Monday next…

which heard, reasoned by the advice of the bailies and council before written, and advisedly considered, they nominate, make, constitute, and ordain master Alexander Guthre, eldest son to Alexander Guthre, their common clerk, their clerk to the said commissioners, who in their presence being sworn, gave his oath for faithful execution of the said office; and they ordain therefore the collectors present and to come, to give him yearly for his pains the sum of thirty pounds usual money of this realm.

Original text: “27 March 1579. [The provost, bailies, council, and deacons of crafts] commandis and chairges Alexander Guthrie, thair common clerk, to gif sesing to maister James Lowsoun and Johne Durie, for thameselfis and in name of the ministeris, of the mans, duelling houssis, and yairdis within Sanct Gelis Kirk yaird, conforme to the designatioun past of befoir; and thai sall warrand him thairof.”

Modern English translation: 27 March 1579. [The provost, bailies, council, and deacons of crafts] command and charge Alexander Guthre, their common clerk, to give sasine to master James Lowsoun and John Durie, for themselves and in name of the ministers, of the manses, dwelling houses, and yards within St Giles’ churchyard, conform to the designation passed before; and they shall warrant him thereof.

Original text: “The prowvest, baillies, and counsale ordanis Robert Kar, baillie, Jhonne Jhounstoun of the counsale, and Jhonne Guthre, notar, to pas to Hew Tod, the clerk, and desyir the copye of the Kingis letteris quhilk war proclamit yister nicht efter viij houris at evin for passing to Hammyltoun, quhilk the said Hew alegit war send to Striueling and had nocht the samyn; and the said personis with Alexander Bruce and Dauid Williamson askit instrumentis.”

Modern English translation: The provost, bailies, and council ordain Robert Kar, baillie, John Jhounstoun of the council, and John Guthre, notary, to pass to Hew Tod, the clerk, and desire the copy of the King’s letters which were proclaimed yesternight after eight o’clock at even for passing to Hamilton, which the said Hew alleged were sent to Stirling and he had not the same; and the said persons with Alexander Bruce and David Williamson asked instruments.

Original text: “13 July 1579. Alexander Guthre, commoun clerk of the said burgh, desyrit ane answer to be gevin to him to his supplicatioun producit tuiching the placing and doun setting of maister Alexander Guthre, his sone, as his depute in his office of commoun clerkship, conforme to his privilege and fredome contenit in the gift of his said office. To the quhilk it wes ansuerit be maister Johne Prestoun, Alexander Clerk, Alexander Vddert, Johne Johnestoun, Robert Hendersoun, and Robert Abercrummy, haifing commissioun as chosen for the part of the counsale, that in that caus, in respect of the prowests absence, thai wer nocht sufficientlie resoluir, nowther could thai at that tyme gif ane sufficient answer to the said supplicatioun, bot promesit vpoun Wednesday nixt sould enter in ressoning thairanent with the counsale and report ane answer the said day.”

Modern English translation: 13 July 1579. Alexander Guthre, common clerk of the said burgh, desired an answer to be given to him to his supplication produced touching the placing and down-setting of master Alexander Guthre, his son, as his depute in his office of common clerkship, conform to his privilege and freedom contained in the gift of his said office. To the which it was answered by master John Prestoun, Alexander Clerk, Alexander Vddert, John Johnestoun, Robert Hendersoun, and Robert Abercrummy, having commission as chosen for the part of the council, that in that cause, in respect of the provost’s absence, they were not sufficiently resolved, neither could they at that time give a sufficient answer to the said supplication, but promised upon Wednesday next [they] should enter into reasoning thereanent with the council and report an answer the said day.

“The prowvest, baillies, and counsall foirsaidis ordanis William Adamsoun and Rychart Abircrumby, baillies, and John Johnstoun of the counsall, together with John Guthre, clark, to pas doun to Leith with all diligence possibill, and in the townis name, as superiouris thairof, to desyir the inspection of thair chairge gevin to thame be the Kingis Maiestie to meit his Hienes in armour…

quha, conforme to thair commissioun, past doun and inquyrit of Walter Cant and John Thomsoun, baillies of the said towne of Leith… quha ansuerit they had nane in writt bot be tong, and John Johnstoun in name foirsaid, as superiouris, dischairgitt thame to pas furth in armour becaus the samyn was contrair the ordour of the proclamatioun and na warrand was schawin, and protested that, insafar as they schew na commissioun be writt, the gude towne, as superiouris, suld be frie of the paynis contenit in the said proclamatioun maid on Mononday last…”

Modern English translation: The provost, bailies, and council foresaid ordain William Adamsoun and Richard Abircrumby, bailies, and John Johnstoun of the council, together with John Guthre, clerk, to pass down to Leith with all diligence possible, and in the town’s name, as superiors thereof, to desire the inspection of their charge given to them by the King’s Majesty to meet His Highness in armour…

who, conform to their commission, passed down and inquired of Walter Cant and John Thomsoun, bailies of the said town of Leith… who answered they had none in writing but by tongue, and John Johnstoun in name foresaid, as superiors, discharged them to pass forth in armour because the same was contrary to the order of the proclamation and no warrant was shown, and protested that, insofar as they showed no commission in writing, the good town, as superiors, should be free of the pains contained in the said proclamation made on Monday last…

Original text (combined): “9 December 1579. Alexander Guthre, commoun clerk, in presens forsaid, delyuerit to Alexander Clark the commoun seill of Leith, quhilk sen thair first bying of the superioritie thairof the tym of his admissioun of principall clark to the samyn, he had in his custodie quhill now, and ordanit euery chartour to be subscryuit be thair said principall clark, and seillit thairwith, to pay xiij s. iiij d. of dewtie to the said provest, and that nane of the saidis chartouris or vther wrytingis quhairto the said seill is requesite be seillit without ane speciall warrand of the counsall.”

Modern English translation: 9 December 1579. Alexander Guthre, common clerk, in presence foresaid, delivered to Alexander Clark the common seal of Leith, which since their first buying of the superiority thereof at the time of his admission of principal clerk to the same, he had in his custody until now, and ordained every charter to be subscribed by their said principal clerk, and sealed therewith, to pay 13s. 4d. of duty to the said provost, and that none of the said charters or other writings where the said seal is requisite be sealed without a special warrant of the council.

Original text: “10 December 1579. Efter lang resoning anentis the placing of maister Alexander Guthre, eldest sone to Alexander Guthre, commoun clark of this burgh, in his fatheris office induring thair willis, appoynted Robert Kar, and Henry Nesbett, baillies, John Jhounstoun [and four others] to convene in the over clarkis chalmer of this burgh on Fryday nixt in the morning be sax houris, and siclike daylie at the said hour, and efter inspection of the haill counsall buikis, as alsua the said Alexanderis gift of the clarkschip, and avysement thairwith, to report thair jugement concerning the assurance to be maid be the gude towne with the said maister Alexander and thair efter to report.”

Modern English translation: 10 December 1579. After long reasoning anent the placing of master Alexander Guthre, eldest son to Alexander Guthre, common clerk of this burgh, in his father’s office during their wills, appointed Robert Kar and Henry Nesbett, bailies, John Jhounstoun [and four others] to convene in the over clerk’s chamber of this burgh on Friday next in the morning be six hours, and likewise daily at the said hour, and after inspection of all the council books, as also the said Alexander’s gift of the clerkship, and advisement therewith, to report their judgement concerning the assurance to be made by the good town with the said master Alexander and thereafter to report.

“…and thairfore hes chosen the persons following to be mettares, viz., Jhone Gottray, Adam Welderstoun and Thomas Haisty quhilkis wer sworne thairto, and ordanis all the commoun mettis to be delyuerit to Frances Tennend fermer of the wyld auentures…”

Modern English Translation: …and therefore has chosen the persons following to be measurers, viz., John Gottray, Adam Welderstoun and Thomas Haisty which were sworn thereto, and ordains all the common measures to be delivered to Frances Tennend, farmer of the wynd adventures…

Original text: “1 February 1552–3. The quhilk day, the prouest baillies and counsale and ane pairt of the dekynnis of craftis nemmit and gaif power to William Craik, prouest, Maister Thomas Marioribankis, Alexander Guthrie, James Bannatyne, Johne Symsoun, William Muirhead, Johne Dougall, Dauid Kinloch and James Young to pas to my Lord Sanctandrois thesaurer, and commoun with his lordschip towart the desyre of thair taxtis of the grete taxt of xxvjᵐ li. and xvjᵐ li., and gif na forther remeid can be had thairof to aggre and compone thairupoun.”

Modern English translation: 1 February 1552–3. The which day, the Provost, Bailies and Council and a part of the deacons of crafts nominated and gave power to William Craik, Provost, Master Thomas Marioribankis, Alexander Guthrie, James Bannatyne, John Symson, William Muirhead, John Dougall, David Kinloch and James Young to pass to my Lord St Andrews, Treasurer, and commune with his lordship toward the desire of their taxes of the great tax of £26,000 and £16,000, and if no further remedy can be had thereof, to agree and compound thereupon.

Original text: “Ordanis Jhonn Robertsoun, thesaurer, to pay to Henry Chairteris the sowm of twenty schillingis for ane pay buik furnist and delyuerit be him to Jhonne Guthre quha suld writt and register thairin the haill actis of the burrowes and thair conventionis bypast.”

Modern English translation: Ordains John Robertson, treasurer, to pay to Henry Chairteris the sum of twenty shillings for one pay book furnished and delivered by him to John Guthre, who should write and register therein the whole acts of the burrows and their conventions bypast.

Original text (relevant section): “…Lettres of arreisting of westland heiring and vther fisches transportit be westland men to Leyth for careing out of the realme in schippis, quhilkis lettres thai delyuerit to maister Alexander Guthrie and ordanit to be registrat in the register buik and putt in the chairterhous…”

Modern English translation: “…Letters of arrestment of westland herring and other fishes transported by westland men to Leith for carrying out of the realm in ships, which letters they delivered to master Alexander Guthrie and ordained to be registered in the register book and put in the charterhouse…”

“15 June 1582. Ordanis Jhone Robertsoun, thesaurer, to pay to Andro Landellis… item, to pay to James Adamsoun iiij s. debursit for sending for Mungo Ros, baxter, for the said bankett; item, ordanes the said thesaurer to pay to the persones following the sowmes efter mentionat debursit be thame in thair expenssis for thame selfes, my lord prowvest, and dyueris nychtbouris, merchantys, and craftismen quha past to Dalkeith on Tysday last to the Kingis Grace in the tounes effaires speciallie for the nychtbouris laitlie exylit, viz:—to pay to Alexander Stewart, for iij hors hyre to the prowvest and his seruandes, and twa hors to James Adamsoun and maister Alexander Guthree, xxxiij s. iiij d.; item, for hors hyre, meit, and boyes, and a quart aill, and ane breid, viij s. vj d.; item, for dyueris honest nychtbouris denneris v li. vij s.; item, to pay to Mungo Russell for certane of the craftys denneris xxxviij s.; item, for viij hors hyre to certane nychtbouris of the craftys, four merk.”

Modern English translation: 15 June 1582. Ordains John Robertson, treasurer, to pay to Andrew Landellis… item, to pay to James Adamsoun 4s. disbursed for sending for Mungo Ros, baker, for the said banquet; item, ordains the said treasurer to pay to the persons following the sums after mentioned disbursed by them in their expenses for themselves, my lord provost, and diverse neighbours, merchants, and craftsmen who passed to Dalkeith on Tuesday last to the King’s Grace in the town’s affairs specially for the neighbours lately exiled, viz:—to pay to Alexander Stewart, for 3 horses’ hire to the provost and his servants, and two horses to James Adamsoun and master Alexander Guthree, 33s. 4d.; item, for horse hire, meat, and boys, and a quart of ale, and a loaf, 8s. 6d.; item, for diverse honest neighbours’ dinners £5 7s.; item, to pay to Mungo Russell for certain of the crafts’ dinners 38s.; item, for 8 horses’ hire to certain neighbours of the crafts, four merks.

Original text: “6 December 1583. Ordainet that Jhonn Jhonestoun, collectour, inform James Guthre to travell with the archdene of Lowthiane anent his benefice to be dimittet in favouris of the College, and agreis to ratifie and appreive all things to be done be the said James in the said caus according to the said Jhones informatioun.”

Modern English translation: 6 December 1583. Ordained that John Johnestoun, collector, inform James Guthre to travel with the Archdean of Lothian concerning his benefice to be demitted in favour of the College, and agrees to ratify and approve all things to be done by the said James in the said cause according to the said John’s information.

“Item, to Alexander Guthre, be ane precept datit tertio Novembris, xxv li.”

Modern English Translation: Item, to Alexander Guthre, by one precept dated the third of November, £25.

Original text (as shown in the source image): “Item, for carting and bringing up of ane toun of wyne fra the Abay for the Quenis grace, gottin fra Alexander Guthre, . . . . . . . . . . iijᵛ vjᵈ”

Modern English translation: Item, for carting and bringing up of one tun of wine from the Abbey for the Queen’s grace, gotten from Alexander Guthre, . . . . . . . . . . iijᵛ vjᵈ [£3 6s. in Scots currency].

Original text: “16 September 1584. Vnderstanding that the spous of maister James Lowsoun is chairget to devoyde and remove fra the lugeing sumtyme occupeit be hir said spous, within the quhilk is placeit the townis librarie; lyk as his said spous, comperand, offerit the keys of the said lugeing to the town with the said librarie and haill tymmer wark inputt in the said lugeing be the toun, thairfore ordanis William Littill, bailyie, to resaue the said keyis and he and maister Johnn Prestoun, maister Michaell Chisholm, Dauid Williamsoun and William Harvie to pas and resaue the said lugeing, inuentour the tymmer wark and buiks, and the said William Littill to keip the sam quhill forther ordour be tane thairwith.”

Modern English translation: 16 September 1584. Understanding that the spouse of master James Lowsoun is charged to void and remove from the lodging sometime occupied by her said spouse, within which is placed the town’s library; likewise his said spouse, compearing, offered the keys of the said lodging to the town with the said library and whole timber work put into the said lodging by the town, therefore ordains William Littill, bailie, to receive the said keys and he and master John Prestoun, master Michael Chisholm, David Williamsoun and William Harvie to pass and receive the said lodging, inventory the timber work and books, and the said William Littill to keep the same until further order be taken therewith.

Original text (auditors’ finding): “At Edinburgh, the vj day of Marche, the yeir of God, Jᵐ vᶜ lv yeirs. The auditors of comptis under writtin, convenit in the tolbuith of Edinburgh, for heiring of the compt foirsaid of James Carmichaell, dene of gyld in the yeir bygane, findis, be the compt foirsaid, the charge thairof extendis to iijᶜvijˡˡ xvjˢ v½ᵈ, and the discharge to ijᶜ lxxxvjˡˡ xvˢ vᵈ; and sua the compter restis awand to the town, xxjˡˡ xijᵈ obolus [halfpenny], de claro.”

Marginal note by Mr Alexander Guthrie, town-clerk (as recorded in the source): “The comptar hes chargit him heirwith in his next compt, maid in anno lvjᵗᵒ GUTHRE.”

Modern English translation / summary: At Edinburgh, the 6th day of March, the year of God 1555. The auditors of accounts underwritten, convened in the tolbooth of Edinburgh for hearing the aforesaid account of James Carmichael, Dean of Guild in the year bygone, find that by the said account the charge thereof extends to £307 16s. 5½d., and the discharge to £286 15s. 5d.; and so the accountant remains owing to the town £21 12d. obolus [halfpenny], clearly.

The comptar has charged himself herewith in his next account, made in the year 1556. GUTHRE.

Original text: “And sua restis the compter awand to the gude toun the sowme of threttye fyve pund sextene shillingis jᵈ obˢ; quhilk sowme wes ordanet to be deliverit and payit to James Carmichaell be ane act maid be the counsall thairupon, in part of payment of ane mair sowme restand awin to him be the gude toun, as the act, maid the xxvj day of Marche 1557 yers, proportis.

GUTHRE.”

Modern English translation: And so rests the compter owing to the good town the sum of thirty-five pounds sixteen shillings one penny obolus; which sum was ordained to be delivered and paid to James Carmichael by an act made by the council thereupon, in part of payment of a larger sum remaining owing to him by the good town, as the act made the 26th day of March 1557 years purports.

GUTHRE.

Original text: “5 February 1584–5. The foresaid bailyies and counsall and James Wod, baxter, Cudbert Cranstoun, furrour, Jhonn Stevinsoun, wobster, of the remanent deykyns of craftis, electis, creatts, and constituts maister Alexander Guthre procuratour fiscall of this burgh, induring thair willis, and disponis vnto him all fies and casualiteis belonging thairto and dischairges thair former procuratour fiscall of his office. And ordanis the collectouris present and to cum to gif the said maister Alexander lawfull wairning xxiiij houris before the making of any billis or dittayes with sufficient informatioun agane the day appoyntet.”

Modern English translation: 5 February 1584–5. The foresaid bailies and council and James Wod, baxter, Cuthbert Cranstoun, furrier, John Stevinsoun, webster, of the remaining deacons of crafts, elect, create, and constitute master Alexander Guthre procurator fiscal of this burgh, during their wills, and dispose unto him all fees and casualities belonging thereto and discharge their former procurator fiscal of his office. And ordain the collectors present and to come to give the said master Alexander lawful warning 24 hours before the making of any bills or dittays with sufficient information against the day appointed.

“19 March 1584–5. Appoyntis Henry Nesbet, James Nicoll, bailyies, the dene of gild, thesaurer, Jhonn Bannatyne, Bartelmo Someruell, Alexander Vddert, William Littill, Henry Blyth, Jhonn Watt and maister Alexander Guthre, to pas to Leyth the morn for halding of the court for calling of the precept rayset aganes the inhabitants of Leyth for schawing thair euidents, and be the way to visy the rowm of St. Pawlis Wark quhair ane lipper hous may be commodiouslie bigget.”

Modern English translation: 19 March 1584–5. Appoints Henry Nesbet, James Nicoll, bailies, the Dean of Guild, the Treasurer, John Bannatyne, Bartelmo Someruell, Alexander Vddert, William Littill, Henry Blyth, John Watt and master Alexander Guthre, to pass to Leith tomorrow for holding of the court for calling of the precept raised against the inhabitants of Leith for showing their evidents, and by the way to visit the room of St. Paul’s Wark where a leper house may be commodiously built.

Original text: “28 May 1585. The baily eis and ane pairt of the counsall being convenit, and vnderstanding be maister Robert Rollok and maister Duncane Nairne, maisters of the College, that the haill students, throw the feir and bruit of the pestilence, hes left the scholes and thairby thai haif nathing to do, desyring thairfore licence of the town to depart and visy thair freinds for a seasoun, offerand to returne to thair cuir and seruice quhensoeuir the towne sall think expedient, vpoun aduertisement to be maid in thair names be maister Alexander Guthre thair clerk. Quhilk desyre the said baily eis and counsall thocht resonabill, and thairfor willinglie grantet and consentet thairto.”

Modern English translation: 28 May 1585. The bailies and a part of the council being convened, and understanding by master Robert Rollok and master Duncan Nairne, masters of the College, that the whole students, through the fear and rumour of the pestilence, have left the schools and thereby they have nothing to do, desiring therefore licence of the town to depart and visit their friends for a season, offering to return to their cure and service whenever the town shall think expedient, upon advertisement to be made in their names by master Alexander Guthre their clerk. Which desire the said bailies and council thought reasonable, and therefore willingly granted and consented thereto.

Original text: “24 September 1585. Maister Alexander Guthre, commoun clerk of this burgh, with avyse and consent of the said baily eis and counsall, namet and constitute maister Dauid Guthre his depute in the said office quhill he be dischairget, and dischairget all vther deputes maid of before except William Stewart, younger, and the said maister Dauid acceptet and gaf his ayth.”

Modern English translation: 24 September 1585. Master Alexander Guthre, common clerk of this burgh, with advice and consent of the said bailies and council, named and constituted master David Guthre his depute in the said office until he be discharged, and discharged all other deputes made before except William Stewart, younger, and the said master David accepted and gave his oath.

Original text: “17 December 1585. Maister Alexander Guthre, commoun clerk, exhibit and producet in name of Robert Hay of Kirkcaldie the sowme of twenty pund sent be the said Robert to the support and help of the puir infectit persouns in the mwre.”

Modern English translation: 17 December 1585. Master Alexander Guthre, common clerk, exhibited and produced in name of Robert Hay of Kirkcaldie the sum of twenty pounds sent by the said Robert to the support and help of the poor infected persons in the muir.

Original text: “21 January 1585–6. Ordanet the gift of the Trinitie College to be delyuerit to Jhonn Jhonestoun, collectour, and he to raise lettres thairvpoun befor the lords, and according heirto maister Alexander Guthrie delyuerit to the said Jhonn the said gift.”

Modern English translation: 21 January 1585–6. Ordained the gift of the Trinity College to be delivered to John Johnestoun, collector, and he to raise letters thereupon before the Lords, and according hereto master Alexander Guthrie delivered to the said John the said gift.

“9 February 1585–6. Gevis commissioun to Androw Sclater, Alexander Vddert, Jhonn Jhonestoun, Henry Chairters, maister Alexander Guthre, to pas, visy and mak inventour of the euidents in the charter kist of the Trinitie College quhilk is in the hands of Maister Robert Pont, and to present the sam the nixt counsall day.”

Modern English translation: 9 February 1585–6. Gives commission to Andrew Sclater, Alexander Vddert, John Johnestoun, Henry Chairters, master Alexander Guthre, to pass, visit and make inventory of the evidents in the charter kist of the Trinity College which is in the hands of Master Robert Pont, and to present the same the next council day.

Jonet Guthrie, relict of the late Master James Lowsoun, late minister of this burgh, of good memory, together with James and Elizabeth Lowsoun, their children, presented a supplication. It recounts that Master James had faithfully discharged the ministry in Edinburgh until about May 1584, when, for the safety of his conscience and to avoid drawing the Lords into inconvenience, he withdrew to England, where he died in October 1584, leaving his wife and children in a hard and pitiful estate, destitute of comfort.

The council, considering his faithful service, the circumstances of his withdrawal and death, and the present necessity of his family, grants and dispones:

• To the said Jonet in liferent, and
• To the said James and Elizabeth, the longest liver of them two, in fee and heritage (and the heirs to be gotten of their bodies only),

an annualrent of forty pounds usual money of this realm yearly [from the common mills].

It is provided that if the children reach the age of fourteen years, Jonet shall renounce and give over her liferent of the said annualrent in their favour for their help and support to some honest industry.

Original text: “9 February 1579–80. Comperit Alexander Guthre, commoun clark, quha acknawleging his awin inhabiltie to do the towne service as becumis, inrespect of his aige and infirmitie and seiknes fallin vnto him, for the quhilkis occasiounis he frelie renunciit, remittit, and ourgaif the office of commoun clarkship … [and] delyueris presentlie in thair handis thair haill counsall buikis and dyett buikis pertening to the gude towne, and sall delyuer all vther wrytis or buikis quhilkis ar in his hands or sall cum to his knawlege in ony tyme heirefter, to be vsit at thair plesouris, his awin porthogollis, quhilkis of rycht pertenis to him, onlie exceptit. And the said Alexander binds and obleissis him, his airis and assignayis, to mak patent all his saidis prothogollis for outdrawing of all sic instrumentis or vther writis contenit thairin as salbe to the furtherance of the commoun weill of this burgh, ministrie and pure thairof, vpoun the townis resonabill expenssis.”

Modern English translation: 9 February 1579–80. Compeared Alexander Guthre, common clerk, who acknowledging his own inability to do the town service as becomes him, in respect of his age and infirmity and sickness fallen unto him, for the which occasions he freely renounced, remitted, and overgave the office of common clerkship … [and] delivers presently in their hands their whole council books and diet books pertaining to the good town, and shall deliver all other writs or books which are in his hands or shall come to his knowledge in any time hereafter, to be used at their pleasures, his own protocol books, which of right pertains to him, only excepted. And the said Alexander binds and obliges him, his heirs and assignees, to make patent all his said protocol books for drawing out of all such instruments or other writs contained therein as shall be to the furtherance of the common weal of this burgh, ministry and poor thereof, upon the town’s reasonable expenses.

The Provost, Bailies, Council, and Deacons of Crafts granted to Mr. Alexander Guthre, eldest son of the previous town clerk, the office of common clerkship of the burgh, only during the will of the Provost, Bailies, Council, and Deacons — or until it became known that he was disobedient, negligent, or acted against the liberties and privileges of the office.

William Stewart and Jhonn Guthre, brother to the said Master Alexander, were appointed deputes to the said common clerk during the town’s good will and Master Alexander Guthre’s good behaviour.

William Stewart was to subscribe all acts, decreets, sesings, and other necessary matters when Master Alexander was sick or out of town. Jhonn Guthre was to subscribe when William Stewart was sick or out of town.

Strict conditions were imposed, including that neither the common clerk nor his deputies could deal in rentals or sasines of common lands, make burgesses without council authority, or produce processes without the advice of the magistrates.

The document concludes with the oath taken by Master Alexander Guthre and his deputes for the faithful discharge of the office.

Original text (as printed): “30 December 1580. [The provost, bailies, council, and deacons of crafts granted to Jhonn Guthre “the office of clerkship of the towne of Leyth on the sowth syde of the watter thairof, pertenning to the prouest, baillies, counsale and deikins and community of this burgh as lordis superiouris of the same.”]”

Modern English translation: 30 December 1580. [The provost, bailies, council, and deacons of crafts granted to John Guthre “the office of clerkship of the town of Leith on the south side of the water thereof, pertaining to the provost, bailies, council and deacons and community of this burgh as lords superiors of the same.”]

Original text: “12 July 1581. Comperit Alesoun Makneill, the relict of vmquhill Jhone Robertsoun, clerk of Leyth, and Archibald Noruell, notare, and producet twa court buiks of the said town of Leyth, the ane thairof begynnand the xxj of Januar 1578 and endand the xvij of October 1579, the vther begynnand the said day of October and endand the fourt of Maij 1580; quhilk buiks wes instantly delyuerit to Jhone Guthre, clerk of Leyth, quha oblist himself to mak the sam furthcummand to the guid towne. Forther the saids prouest, baillies and counsale decernis and ordanis the said Archibald Noruell to desist and cease frome all vsing or exerceing in ony tyme cuming of any thing quhilk the clerk of Leyth in tymes past hes bene in vse to exerce concerning his office; and specially fra all subscryving or gevin furth of ony acts or decreitts in tyme cuming; to the quhilkis the said Archibald consentit.”

Modern English translation: 12 July 1581. Compeared Alesoun Makneill, the relict of the late John Robertsoun, clerk of Leith, and Archibald Noruell, notary, and produced two court books of the said town of Leith, the one thereof beginning the 21st of January 1578 and ending the 17th of October 1579, the other beginning the said day of October and ending the 4th of May 1580; which books were instantly delivered to John Guthre, clerk of Leith, who obliged himself to make the same forthcoming to the good town. Further the said provost, bailies and council discern and ordain the said Archibald Noruell to desist and cease from all using or exercising in any time coming of any thing which the clerk of Leith in times past has been in use to exercise concerning his office; and specially from all subscribing or giving forth of any acts or decreets in time coming; to the which the said Archibald consented.

Original text: “9 March 1581–2. Vpoun the report of Alexander Vddert, maister Jhone Prestoun, and vthers of the counsale, quha wes appoyntit to intreatt and commoun with Chairlis Guthre, brother to vmquhill maister David Guthre, vpoun his allegeit rycht to the landis, yairdis and houssis quhair now ar situat the ministers lugeings, fyndis it necessar and proffitabill to the towne to agrie with the said Chairlis, for the sowm of twa hundreth merkis, for his said richt and kyndnes and for obtening the townis security at the Lord Drummond and provest of St. Geillis kirk, according as sall be devysit be the townis assessouris. And ordanis the said Alexander Vddert, maister Jhone Prestoun and Jhone Jhonestoun, collectour, to pas to the said assessouris and se the said securities pennit and endit.”

Modern English translation: 9 March 1581–2. Upon the report of Alexander Vddert, master John Prestoun, and others of the council, who were appointed to treat and commune with Charles Guthre, brother to the late master David Guthre, upon his alleged right to the lands, yards and houses where now are situated the ministers’ lodgings, finds it necessary and profitable to the town to agree with the said Charles, for the sum of two hundred merks, for his said right and kindness and for obtaining the town’s security at the Lord Drummond and provost of St Giles’ kirk, according as shall be devised by the town’s assessors. And ordains the said Alexander Vddert, master John Prestoun and John Johnestoun, collector, to pass to the said assessors and see the said securities penned and ended.

Original text: “3rd August 1604. Ordanis the thesaurer . . . to pay to Mr Alex. Guthre, commoun clerk, fourty punds for copeing in parchment and in Inglis the touns new infeftment.”

Modern English translation: 3 August 1604. Ordains the treasurer . . . to pay to Mr Alexander Guthre, common clerk, forty pounds for copying in parchment and in English the town’s new infeftment.

Original text: “24th February 1607. Having red and considerit the rentales of thair kirk benefices quhilk thai causet Mr Alexander Guthre, commoun clerk, to writt and collect, thai approvet the same and ordanet thame to be delyverit to the lords quhilk sittis upoun the Kings generall extent gif neid beis.”

Modern English translation: 24 February 1607. Having read and considered the rentals of their kirk benefices which they caused Mr Alexander Guthre, common clerk, to write and collect, they approved the same and ordained them to be delivered to the lords who sit upon the King’s general extent if need be.

“The sam day Thomas Fawlisdaill and Jhonn Sempill, burgessis of Dumbartane, exhibit . . . ane band subscryvet be certane gentilmen and nobilmen as souerteis for thame anent the taxatioun of xxv^m merk grantet be the estaitts to the said burgh of Dumbartane, to the quhilk band the said baillies and counsall agreyit for the tounis pairt. Quhilk band wes delyverit and putt in keipping . . . to Mr Alexander Guthre . . . to be exhibit to the burrowes at thair nixt conventioun gif thai will lyke thairof.”

Modern English translation: The same day Thomas Fawlisdaill and John Sempill, burgesses of Dumbarton, exhibited . . . a band subscribed by certain gentlemen and noblemen as sureties for them anent the taxation of 25,000 merks granted by the Estates to the said burgh of Dumbarton, to the which band the said bailies and council agreed for the town’s part. Which band was delivered and put in keeping . . . to Mr Alexander Guthre . . . to be exhibited to the Burghs at their next Convention if they will like thereof.

“Comperit Mr Alexander Guthre, commoun clerk of this burgh, and of his awin frie will dimittet and overgaif in the hands of the provest, baillies, counsall and deykins of crafts all and haill the said office of commoun clerkschip quhilk he hes be provisioun . . . maid to him . . . be delyverance of staf and battoun as use is . . . and immediately thairafter the said provest, baillies, counsall and deykins of crafts disponet to the said Mr Alexander Guthre and to Alexander Guthre his sone the said office of commoun clerkschip with all feis, dewteis and casualiteis belangand thairto and the said Mr Alexander . . . constitute Mr Jhonn Hay his deputt in the said office . . .”

Modern English translation: Compeared Mr Alexander Guthre, common clerk of this burgh, and of his own free will demitted and overgave into the hands of the provost, bailies, council and deacons of crafts all and whole the said office of common clerkship which he has by provision . . . made to him . . . by delivery of staff and baton as use is . . . and immediately thereafter the said provost, bailies, council and deacons of crafts disponed to the said Mr Alexander Guthre and to Alexander Guthre his son the said office of common clerkship with all fees, duties and casualities belonging thereto and the said Mr Alexander . . . constituted Mr John Hay his depute in the said office . . .

“. . . for the commissioners of borrowis pairt thairof maid in thair conventioun of borrowis haldin at Edinburgh the first day of Julij instant extractit and subscryvit be Mr Alexander Guthrie thair generall clerk . . .”

Modern English translation: . . . for the commissioners of Burghs’ part thereof made in their Convention of Burghs held at Edinburgh the first day of July instant, extracted and subscribed by Mr Alexander Guthrie their general clerk . . .