Register
of the
Privy Council of Scotland

First Series: 1545 – 1625

Overview and Contents: This foundational series captures the transition from medieval to early modern Scotland. It includes acts on royal authority, Reformation-era religious policies, justice administration, border affairs, and responses to internal feuds and external threats. Early volumes cover the turbulent minorities and reigns of Mary and James VI; later ones extend into the Union of the Crowns and James’s consolidation of power. Materials mix full acts with calendared decreets, offering insights into daily governance.

Here at Guthrie Genealogy, you will find excerpts, transcripts, and summaries of all Guthrie mentions in the Register. You’ll also find notes on the Guthrie’s role within the register entry, the historical and genealogical significance, plus some interesting details on legal terms and Scottish practices.

Navigation menus will take you from volume to volume to Table Summaries with quick links to the details of the Guthrie entries.

Scotland. Privy Council. (1898). The register of the Privy Council of Scotland. Edinburgh: H.M. General Register House. Digital Repository: HathiTrust.

First Series: Volume 1
(1545-1569)

Volume 1 / Page 32

Date: 31 July 1546 (Apud Edinburgh, penultimo die mensis Julii)

Guthrie(s) Identified: William Guthre

Role (within the document): One of many individuals summoned to appear before Parliament to answer for the treasonable slaughter of Cardinal David Beaton and the taking and withholding of St Andrews Castle.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … William Harte, William Guthre, John Sibbald brother to the Laird of Cuksone, Petir Carmichell servand, Walter Mailvile elder, Walter Mailvile younger, Schir Johne Auchinlek chaplane, Nicholl Lermond, Schir Johne Young chaplane, David Kirkcaldy cuke, Niniiane Cokburne, Johne Poll gunnar, William Orrok, Schir James Lyell chaplane, Johne Rollok, and Andro Canyow, ar summonnd at oure Soverane Ladys instance and my said Lord Governouris to have compeirit and to have underlyne the sensiment off parliament, for the tressonabill slauchter of umquhile David Cardinale Archbishop of Sanctandrois Chanceller of Scotland, and for the taking and withholding of the castell of Sanctandrois, sege vacant…

Modern English rendering: … William Harte, William Guthre, John Sibbald brother to the Laird of Cuksone, Peter Carmichael servant, Walter Mailvile elder, Walter Mailvile younger, Sir John Auchinlek chaplain, Nicholl Lermond, Sir John Young chaplain, David Kirkcaldy cook, Ninian Cockburn, John Poll gunner, William Orrok, Sir James Lyell chaplain, John Rollok, and Andrew Canyow, are summoned at our Sovereign Lady’s instance and my said Lord Governor’s to have compeared and to have underlain the sentence of Parliament, for the treasonable slaughter of umquhile David Cardinal Archbishop of St Andrews Chancellor of Scotland, and for the taking and withholding of the castle of St Andrews, siege vacant…

Historical Significance: This is a formal summons issued in the aftermath of the murder of Cardinal David Beaton (29 May 1546) and the subsequent seizure of St Andrews Castle by the Cardinal’s killers and their supporters. The document orders a large group of named individuals to appear before Parliament to answer for their alleged involvement in these events.

Genealogical Significance: Provides an early mention of William Guthre among those summoned in connection with the Cardinal Beaton assassination and the taking of St Andrews Castle in 1546. This places him in the turbulent political and religious events of the mid-1540s during the minority of Mary Queen of Scots.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling authority in 1546 was the infant Mary Queen of Scots with James Hamilton, Earl of Arran, serving as Governor.

• Summonnd at oure Soverane Ladys instance and my said Lord Governouris — formally summoned at the instance of the Queen and the Governor (Earl of Arran).
• Underlyne the sensiment off parliament — to submit to / undergo the sentence or judgment of Parliament.
• Tressonabill slauchter — treasonable slaughter (the murder of the Cardinal was treated as high treason).

Volume 1 / Page 174-175

Date: 3 November 1561

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthre

Role (within the document): Cited as a party in a prior legal action (used as precedent). The defender in the current case refers to an earlier dispute between French merchants of Nantes and Alexander Guthre and others to argue that the present libel/summons is too general and lacks proper specification of marks on goods.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … as wes usit betuix the Frenchmen of Nantis contra Alexander Guthre and utheris, quhairby taking away my defenssis; for gif thai wald specify the mark I culd preve the contrair per scripta, and propone utheris defences uther-wyse as accordis; and thairfoir absolvitour suld be gevin as the saidis summonndis is libellit.

Modern English rendering: … as was used between the Frenchmen of Nantes against Alexander Guthre and others, whereby taking away my defences; for if they would specify the mark I could prove the contrary by writ, and propose other defences otherwise as accords; and therefore absolvitor should be given as the said summons is libelled.

Historical Significance (of the document/entry): This excerpt comes from a legal argument before the Lords of Council in 1561 concerning the sufficiency of a libel (formal summons/complaint). The defender argues that the charges are too vague because they do not specify identifying marks on goods, citing a previous case involving French merchants from Nantes and Alexander Guthre as precedent for requiring proper specification.

Genealogical Significance (of the Guthrie): Provides an early mention of an Alexander Guthre involved in legal proceedings with French merchants of Nantes in or before 1561. This suggests commercial or trade-related activity and offers a potential lead for identifying a mid-16th-century Guthrie (possibly a merchant or burgess) active in international trade or disputes.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Mary Queen of Scots (personal rule following her return from France in August 1561).
• Libell / summonndis — formal written complaint or summons setting out the claim.
• Absolvitour — decree of absolvitor (dismissal of the action in favour of the defender).
• Per scripta — by written evidence/documents.
• The argument turns on the requirement for specificity in pleadings, a recurring issue in 16th-century Scots legal practice.

Volume 1 / Page 218

Date: 25 August 1562 (Apud Edzell, xxvto Augusti)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthre, messenger

Role (within the document): Official whose stamp or signet was allegedly forged and counterfeited. The forged signet was used to authenticate the execution of charges and hornings (legal enforcement documents declaring someone a rebel).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): In presence of the Quenis Majestie, comperit Robert Montgumry, and become cautioun and souirtie to hir Grace, that Johne Fullartoun of Kynnabir suld compeir befoir hir Hienes and Lordis of Secreit Counsale in Edinburgh within foure dayis nixt eftir hir Graces arryving thairat, to answer to hir Majestie, upoun the alleged falseing and feingyeing of the stamp or signet of Alexander Guthre, messenger, and affixinge and putting of the samyn to the executioun of chargis and hornyng, maid be the said Alexander, of the lettres in the foure formes obtenit be David Lindesay of Lenok, and Sir Andro Lindesay, vicar of Newtyld his tutour, for his interes, upoun David Lindesay of the Hauch, denunceing him rebell and putting of him to the horne be verteu thairof, under the pane of fyve hundreth markis, and the said Johne actit and oblist him to releif the said Robert thairof at the Quenis Majesties handis.

Modern English rendering: In the presence of the Queen’s Majesty, Robert Montgomery appeared and became cautioner and surety to Her Grace that John Fullartoun of Kynnabir should appear before Her Highness and the Lords of Secret Council in Edinburgh within four days after Her Grace’s arrival there, to answer to Her Majesty upon the alleged forging and counterfeiting of the stamp or signet of Alexander Guthre, messenger, and the affixing and putting of the same to the execution of charges and hornings made by the said Alexander, of the letters in the four forms obtained by David Lindsay of Lenok and Sir Andrew Lindsay, vicar of Newtyld his tutor, for his interest, upon David Lindsay of the Hauch, denouncing him rebel and putting him to the horn by virtue thereof, under the pain of five hundred merks; and the said John acted and obliged himself to relieve the said Robert thereof at the Queen’s Majesty’s hands.

Historical Significance (of the document/entry): This entry records a bond of caution in a case involving the alleged forgery of an official messenger’s stamp or signet. The forged instrument was used to authenticate legal enforcement actions (charges and hornings). Such cases were serious because messengers were Crown officers whose seals authenticated official documents. The Queen herself was present at Edzell when the surety was given.

Genealogical Significance (of the Guthrie): Identifies Alexander Guthre as a royal messenger in 1562. This is a specific occupational designation that distinguishes him from other Alexander Guthres mentioned elsewhere in the volume. It provides evidence of a Guthrie serving in a Crown administrative/judicial role during the personal reign of Mary Queen of Scots.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Mary Queen of Scots (personal rule).
• Stamp or signet of [messenger] — official seal used by messengers to authenticate legal documents.
• Hornings — the process of declaring someone a rebel/outlaw by putting them to the horn (a formal denunciation).
• Cautioner / souirtie — person who stands surety/guarantor for another’s appearance and performance.
• Relief — obligation to indemnify or reimburse the cautioner if they suffer loss.

Volume 1 / Pages 462-464

Date: 8 June 1566 (Apud Edinburgh, octavo die mensis Junii)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthre, burgess of Edinburgh

Role (within the document): One of many individuals listed as having been lawfully denounced as rebels and put to the horn for failing to appear before the King and Queen and the Lords of Secret Council to answer charges connected to the murder of David Rizzio and related treasonable acts.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … Patrick Wod of Bonytoun, Alexander Guthre burges of Edinburgh, William Johnnestoun bowar thair, Andro Armistrang thair, James Young cutlar thair, Thomas Broun cordinar thair, William Cheyn, etc.—with diverse utheris thair complices— ar lauchfullie denuncit rebellis and put to the horne for noncompering befoir thair Majesteis and Lordis of thair Secreit Counsall, to answer to sic thingis as sould be laid to thair chargeis, as in the lettres direct thairupoun mair fullelie is contenit.

Modern English rendering: … Patrick Wod of Bonytoun, Alexander Guthre burgess of Edinburgh, William Johnnestoun bowar there, Andro Armistrang there, James Young cutlar there, Thomas Broun cordinar there, William Cheyn, etc.—with diverse others their complices—are lawfully denounced rebels and put to the horn for non-compearing before their Majesties and Lords of their Secret Council, to answer to such things as should be laid to their charges, as in the letters directed thereupon more fully is contained.

Historical Significance: This is a formal proclamation issued in the aftermath of the murder of David Rizzio (9 March 1566). It denounces a large group of individuals as rebels for failing to appear to answer charges related to the assassination and the subsequent detention of Queen Mary. The document orders officers of arms, sheriffs, and other officials to search for, apprehend, and bring the named rebels to justice, while prohibiting anyone from assisting or intercommuning with them.

Genealogical Significance: Identifies Alexander Guthre, burgess of Edinburgh, as one of those denounced as a rebel in June 1566 in connection with the Rizzio affair. This places him in Edinburgh civic life at that date and associates him (at minimum by shared denunciation) with a significant political event of Mary Queen of Scots’ reign.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Mary Queen of Scots and Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley (joint reign as Queen and King Consort).
• Denuncit rebellis and put to the horne — formal declaration of rebellion/outlawry.
• Noncompering — failure to appear when summoned.
• Intercommuning — associating or communicating with rebels (itself a punishable offence).
• Officiaris of armes — messengers and other royal officers authorised to execute such proclamations.

Volume 1 / Pages 655-656

Date: 19 April 1569 (Apud Edinburgh, decimo nono Aprilis)

Guthrie(s) Identified: David Guthre and Alexander Guthre, brethren (brothers)

Role (within the document): Publicly resetting, maintaining, and supporting the principal rebels (including Patrick Lord Gray and others) in their houses and otherwise, while those rebels were fugitives from justice for the murder of James Ramsay, tutor of the Lowis.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … the said Patrik Lord Gray, David Guthre and Alexander Guthre brethir, and the saidis Lairdis of Burly and Reres, the said Robert Betoun, in thair houssis and utherwayis publictlie, thay being oure Soveranis rebellis and fugitive fra his Hienes lawis for the said cryme…

Modern English rendering: … the said Patrick Lord Gray, David Guthre and Alexander Guthre brethren, and the said Lairds of Burly and Reres, the said Robert Betoun, in their houses and otherwise publicly, they being our Sovereign’s rebels and fugitives from his Highness’s laws for the said crime…

Historical Significance: This entry records action taken by the Lords of Secret Council on a complaint by the kin and friends of James Ramsay (tutor of the Lowis), who had been murdered in Dundee. The document addresses the public resetting and support given to the principal rebels by various lairds and others, including the two Guthrie brothers, while the rebels remained fugitives from justice.

Genealogical Significance: Names David Guthre and Alexander Guthre, brethren, as individuals publicly supporting and harbouring rebels in 1569. This provides a clear fraternal link between the two men and places them in the political and legal events of the Regency period in Angus/Forfarshire circles.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI (child) with James Stewart, Earl of Moray acting as Regent.
• Rebellis and fugitive fra his Hienes lawis — declared rebels and fugitives from the King’s laws.
• Ressaving, fortifeing and mantenance — resetting, supporting, and maintaining rebels (a serious offence).
• Publictlie in thair houssis and utherwayis — openly in their houses and elsewhere.

Volume 1 / Page 526

Date: 2 July 1567 (Apud Edinburgh, secundo Julii)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthre, principal scribe (clerk) of the burgh of Edinburgh

Role (within the document): The official who extracted and authenticated this copy of the burgh’s act from the council register. He signed and subscribed it with his own hand.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Extractum de libro actorum consilii Burgi de Edinburgh, per me Alexandrum Guthre principalem scribam curie dicti Burgi, sub meis signo et subscriptione manualibus.¹ A. Guthrie.

Modern English rendering: Extracted from the book of the acts of the council of the burgh of Edinburgh, by me Alexander Guthre, principal scribe of the court of the said burgh, under my sign and manual subscription. A. Guthrie.

Historical Significance: This is the authenticated copy of the burgh of Edinburgh’s formal act of support for the Confederate Lords following the murder of Henry Darnley and Mary Queen of Scots’ marriage to the Earl of Bothwell. The burgh council publicly backed the Lords’ aims of pursuing the murderers, dissolving the Bothwell marriage, freeing the Queen from thraldom, and securing the safety of Prince James.

Genealogical Significance: Clearly identifies Alexander Guthre as the principal clerk/scribe of the burgh of Edinburgh in July 1567. This is a significant civic office and provides a strong occupational anchor for an Alexander Guthre active in Edinburgh administration during the turbulent final months of Mary Queen of Scots’ personal rule.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices: Ruling Authority: Mary Queen of Scots (still nominally reigning but imprisoned at Lochleven following her surrender at Carberry Hill on 15 June 1567). Effective power was held by the Confederate Lords.

Legal Terms: Extractum de libro actorum (extracted from the book of acts); principalis scriba curie (principal scribe/clerk of the court); sub meis signo et subscriptione manualibus (under my sign and manual subscription).

Scottish Practices: It was standard practice for the town clerk to authenticate official extracts from burgh council registers with his signature and seal/subscription. This gave the copy legal standing equivalent to the original entry.

Volume 1 / Page 684

Date: 20 July 1569 (Apud Dunde, xx Julii)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Maister Johnne Guthre of Petmowies

Role (within the document): Defender / claimant. He asserted that part of the manse and glebe of the vicarage of Monikie belonged to his own heritage, issued a precept, and caused the reader (Mathew Greif) to be formally warned to flit and remove at Whitsunday 1568. The reader complained of resulting molestation and trouble.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): The reader at the kirk of Monikie complained that he had been in peaceful possession of the vicarage pension, manse, and glebe for several years and had recently obtained the Regent’s gift of the whole vicarage. He stated that Maister Johnne Guthre of Petmowies, claiming right to the manse as part of his proper heritage, had directed a precept and caused him to be warned to flit at Whitsunday 1568. He further complained that Guthre had pursued him before the Sheriff of Forfar and continued to molest and trouble him daily. Both parties appeared personally and of their own free will submitted the entire dispute to the judgment and decree of Thomas Mauld of Panmure and Gilbert Auchinlek of that Ilk. The arbiters were to visit the ground by 1 August 1569 and pronounce their decree before the end of August. Both parties agreed to abide by whatever the arbiters decided, without appeal or contradiction.

Modern English rendering (clear version of the Guthrie section): The reader of the kirk of Monikie complained to the Lord Regent and Lords of Secret Council that he had lawfully held the vicarage pension, manse, and glebe for several years and had recently received the Regent’s gift of the entire vicarage, including the manse and one acre of glebe land, in accordance with the Act of Parliament. He had enjoyed peaceful possession until recently, when Master John Guthrie of Petmowies, claiming that the manse formed part of his own heritable property, issued a precept and had him warned to vacate at Whitsunday 1568. Guthrie had also pursued him before the Sheriff of Forfar. The reader stated that Guthrie continued to molest and trouble him daily. Both parties appeared in person and voluntarily submitted all questions and claims between them to the judgment of Thomas Mauld of Panmure and Gilbert Auchinlek of that Ilk. These two men were to inspect the ground by 1 August 1569 and issue their decree before the end of August. Both parties agreed to accept and abide by whatever the arbiters decided, with no right of appeal.

Historical Significance (of the document/entry): This is a post-Reformation dispute over ecclesiastical property (manse and glebe) in which the Privy Council facilitated voluntary arbitration by two local lairds rather than issuing a direct decree. It illustrates how the Council managed the practical consequences of the 1567 legislation on readers and church lands during the Murray Regency.

Genealogical Significance (of the Guthrie): Names Maister Johnne Guthre of Petmowies as a landowner in Angus who actively asserted heritable rights over part of a church manse and glebe in 1568–1569. This provides a useful additional data point for the Guthries of Petmowies/Pitmowies and helps distinguish this individual from the Thomas Guthre of Kynblawchmont mentioned on the following page (p. 685).

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI (child) with James Stewart, Earl of Moray acting as Regent.
• Precept — formal legal order or summons.
• Flit and remove — standard Scots legal phrasing for requiring someone to vacate property.
• Gleib and manse / vicarage pensionarie — the reader’s allocated church lands and housing.
• Voluntary submission to named arbiters with binding effect and waiver of appeal was a common and efficient method used by the Privy Council to resolve local disputes.

Volume 1 / Page 685

Date: 20 July 1569

Guthrie(s) Identified: Thomas Guthre of Kynblawchmont

Role (within the document): Principal party bound by the surety. Patrick Wod of Bonytoun stood as cautioner/surety for him.

Summary Transcription (original Scots context): The quhilk day, Patrik Wod of Bonytoun become souertie for Thomas Guthre of Kynblawchmont, that he sall na wyis mak convocatioun of oure Soverane Lordis liegis, or troubill Alexander Quhitlaw be way of deid, under the pane of v^c li. toties quoties.

Modern English rendering: On this day, Patrick Wod of Bonytoun became surety for Thomas Guthre of Kynblawchmont, that he shall in no way make convocation of our Sovereign Lord’s lieges, or trouble Alexander Quhitlaw by way of deed, under the penalty of 500 pounds, as often as the offence occurs.

Historical Significance (of the document/entry): A standard Privy Council bond of caution (surety) issued during the Murray Regency to maintain public order and prevent unlawful assemblies or private violence between lairds. The toties quoties clause made the financial penalty renewable for each breach.

Genealogical Significance (of the Guthrie): Names Thomas Guthre of Kynblawchmont as the laird of the Kinblethmont estate in Angus in July 1569. This provides a clear mid-16th-century anchor point for the Guthries of Kinblethmont (linked to the Colliston line) during their period of ownership.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI (child) with James Stewart, Earl of Moray acting as Regent.
• Souertie — surety / cautioner (the person who guarantees the principal’s good conduct).
• Convocatioun of oure Soverane Lordis liegis — unlawful assembly or raising of the king’s subjects (often implying armed or riotous gatherings).
• Troubill … be way of deid — to harm or trouble by force or violence.
• Pane of v^c li. toties quoties — penalty of 500 pounds, enforceable repeatedly for each offence. These bonds were a common and flexible tool used by the Privy Council for peacekeeping and enforcing good behaviour.

First Series: Volume 2
(1569-1578)

Volume 2 / Page 3

Date: 28 July 1569

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthre (Commissioner for Edinburgh)

Role (within the document): Commissioner for the burgh of Edinburgh at the Convention held at Perth

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Under the heading Commissaris for certane of the cheif Burrowis — Edinburgh: James Baroun. Alexander Clerk. Alexander Guthre.

Modern English rendering: Commissioners for certain of the chief Burghs — Edinburgh: James Baroun, Alexander Clerk, Alexander Guthre.

Historical Significance: This entry records attendance at a major Convention of the Estates held at Perth (Sanct Johnnestoun) on 28 July 1569 during the regency of the Earl of Moray. The Convention was called to address the “quitenes and common weill of the cuntrie.” Alexander Guthre appears as one of three official commissioners representing the burgh of Edinburgh, indicating his status as a trusted civic representative of Scotland’s capital at a time of political tension following the Marian civil wars.

Genealogical Significance: This provides an early reference to an Alexander Guthre acting in an official capacity for Edinburgh in 1569. It is distinct from the Alexander Guthrie recorded as Baillie of Elgin later the same year. The variant spelling “Guthre” is consistent with contemporary usage. This may represent a different individual or a different branch of the Guthrie family with connections to Edinburgh civic life.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

Ruling Authority: James VI (in his minority); James Stewart, Earl of Moray, acting as Regent.

Legal Terms:

• Commissaris for … Burrowis (commissioners representing royal burghs)
• Convention of the Estates (a formal gathering of nobility, clergy, and burgh representatives)

Scottish Practices: Royal burghs sending named commissioners to national conventions to represent their interests and participate in decision-making on matters affecting the “common weill.” The listing of commissioners by burgh was a standard administrative practice in the published registers.

Volume 2 / Pages 64-65

Date: 23 November 1569

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie, Baillie of Elgin

Role (within the document): Baillie of Elgin (one of three baillies charged)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “The quhilk day, Johne Annand Provost, David Thomsoun, Alexander Guthrie Thomas Umfray and Williame Auldcorn Baillies, of Elgin, being ofttymes callit to compeir befoir my Lord Regentis Grace and Lordis of Secreit Counsall… The saidis personis not comperand… Thairfoir ordanis letters to be direct to command and charge the said Johne Annand Provost, David Thomesoun Alexander Guthrie Thomas Umfray and Williame Auldcorn Baillies…”

Modern English rendering: On this day, John Annand, Provost, and David Thomson, Alexander Guthrie, Thomas Umfray and William Auldcorn, Baillies of Elgin, having been repeatedly called to appear before the Lord Regent’s Grace and the Lords of Secret Council… and the said persons not having appeared… therefore letters are to be directed to command and charge the said John Annand, Provost, David Thomson, Alexander Guthrie, Thomas Umfray and William Auldcorn, Baillies…

Historical Significance: This entry records the Privy Council’s direct intervention in local burgh governance during the regency of the Earl of Moray. It illustrates the central government’s efforts to enforce moral and religious ordinances (particularly the prohibition of Sunday markets and the harboring of “common huris and harlottis”) in provincial towns such as Elgin. The use of letters of horning and the threat of ward (imprisonment) in Darnaway Castle demonstrates the Council’s coercive authority over burgh officials who failed to comply.

Genealogical Significance: This is an early documented reference to an Alexander Guthrie serving as a Baillie of Elgin in 1569. It places a Guthrie in a position of local civic authority in Moray during the reign of James VI. Further research may determine whether this Alexander Guthrie connects to known Guthrie families in the north-east of Scotland or to later Guthries recorded in Elgin and surrounding areas.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

Ruling Authority: James VI (in his minority); James Stewart, Earl of Moray, acting as Regent.

Legal Terms:

• Compeir (to appear in court)
• Letters of horning / put to the horn (formal denunciation as a rebel/outlaw)
• Ward (imprisonment, here in Darnaway Castle)
• Secreit Counsall (Privy Council)

Scottish Practices: The Privy Council exercising supervisory power over burgh magistrates; use of letters of horning as the standard mechanism to enforce decrees when parties failed to appear; collective responsibility of provost and baillies for enforcing royal and council acts within their burgh.

Volume 2 / Pages 545-546

Date: 18 July 1576

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• David Guthre of Kincaldrm (Kinca ldrum)
• William Guthre of Halkertoun (Halkerton)

Role (within the document): Souirties (sureties/cautioners) for the bond concerning the printing of the Bible

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “The quhilk day… comperit Maister Henry M°Calyeane procuratour for Alexander Arbuthnot burges of Edinburgh, David Guthre of Kincaldrm, Williame Guthre of Halkertoun, Williame Rynd of Carse, and James Arbuthnot of Lentusche… Sic subscribitur: David Guthre of Kincaldrm. … Williame Guthre of Halkertoun.”

Modern English rendering: On this day… compeared Master Henry McCalyeane, procurator for Alexander Arbuthnot, burgess of Edinburgh, David Guthre of Kincaldrm, William Guthre of Halkertoun, William Rynd of Carse, and James Arbuthnot of Lentusche… Signed: David Guthre of Kincaldrm… William Guthre of Halkertoun.

Historical Significance: This entry records a formal bond registered before the Privy Council under the regency of the Earl of Morton for the printing of the Bassandyne Bible — the first complete Bible printed in Scotland (New Testament 1576 by Thomas Bassandyne; Old Testament completed 1579 by Alexander Arbuthnot). It was an edition of the Geneva Bible intended for distribution to Scottish parishes. David Guthre of Kincaldrm and William Guthre of Halkertoun stood as sureties, guaranteeing completion of the work and delivery of the bound Bibles to contributing parishes. The project represented a major national effort to produce vernacular Bibles in Scotland during the Reformation period.

Genealogical Significance: This is a strong genealogical record linking David Guthre of Kincaldrm and William Guthre of Halkertoun as contemporaries in 1576 who were of sufficient standing to act as sureties for a major royal printing privilege. The designations “of Kincaldrm” and “of Halkertoun” are valuable for identifying specific branches or estates associated with the Guthrie name. These individuals are distinct from the Alexander Guthries recorded earlier in the volume (Edinburgh commissioner and Elgin baillie).

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

Ruling Authority: James VI; James Douglas, 4th Earl of Morton, acting as Regent.

Legal Terms:

• Souirties / souirties (sureties / cautioners)
• Obligatioun (bond or obligation)
• Actit and registrat in the bukis of Secreit Counsale (recorded in the books of Privy Council to have the force of a decree)

Scottish Practices: The practice of requiring prominent individuals to stand as personal sureties (souirties) for the performance of contracts or privileges granted by the Crown or Council. Registration of such bonds in the Privy Council register gave them the force of law, allowing letters of horning or poinding to be issued in case of default.

Volume 2 / Page 701

Date: 16 May 1578 (complaint arising from events on or about 10 May 1578)

Guthrie(s) Identified: William Guthre, son of Guthre of that Ilk

Role (within the document): Accused of the premeditated murder of Patrick Gardyne of that Ilk; fled the realm with complices

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “Forsamekill as it is understand to the Lordis of Secreit Counsale be complaint maid be the bairnis, kin, and freindis of umquhile Patrik Gairdin of that Ilk, that William Guthre sone to Guthre of that Ilk, with his complices, bodin with daggis and pistolettis, prohibit to be worne be Actis of Parliament and Secreit Counsale, upon the tent day of Maii instant set upon the said umquhile Patrik Gairdin, and cruellie, schamefullie, and unmercifullie slew him be schot of ane gun or dag upon set purpois and provisioun… And thairfoir ordanis letters to be direct to officiaris of armes, Shereffis… to pas, command, and charge all and sindry maisteris, skipparis, and marinaris of schipps… that nane of thame tak upon hand to transport the said William Guthre, or utheris his complices giltie or suspect to be giltie of the said slauchter…”

Modern English rendering: Whereas it is understood by the Lords of Secret Council from a complaint made by the children, kin, and friends of the late Patrick Gardyne of that Ilk, that William Guthre, son of Guthre of that Ilk, with his accomplices, armed with dags and pistols (prohibited by Acts of Parliament and Secret Council), upon the tenth day of May last set upon the said late Patrick Gardyne and cruelly, shamefully, and unmercifully slew him by shot of a gun or dag with set purpose and provision… Therefore the Lords ordain letters to be directed to officers of arms, sheriffs… to pass, command, and charge all masters, skippers, and mariners of ships… that none of them take it upon themselves to transport the said William Guthre, or others his accomplices guilty or suspected to be guilty of the said slaughter…

Historical Significance: This entry documents a serious and violent feud in Angus between the Guthrie of that Ilk and Gardyne of that Ilk families in May 1578. William Guthre, son of the Laird of Guthrie, and his accomplices are accused of the premeditated murder of Patrick Gardyne of that Ilk by gunshot. The Privy Council responded by issuing letters of horning and proclamations at major east-coast ports (Aberdeen, Montrose, Dundee, etc.) to prevent the accused from escaping by sea. The case reflects the ongoing problem of private feuds, armed violence, and the difficulty of enforcing justice in the localities during James VI’s minority.

Genealogical Significance: This is a significant record for the Guthrie of that Ilk lineage. It identifies William Guthre as a son of the Laird of Guthrie in 1578 and places him at the centre of a major violent incident involving the neighbouring Gardyne family. The entry confirms the existence of at least one son of the Laird of Guthrie at this period and may assist in reconstructing the family structure of the main Guthrie line in Angus during the late sixteenth century. Further research in contemporary criminal records or family papers may reveal the outcome of the case or subsequent relations between the two families.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

Ruling Authority: James VI (still in his minority in 1578); the Privy Council acting under the regency arrangements following the fall of the Earl of Morton.

Legal Terms:

• Umquhile (the late / deceased)
• Complices (accomplices)
• Bodin with daggis and pistolettis (armed with dags and pistols)
• Set purpose and provision (premeditated)
• Letters of horning / proclamation at market crosses (to denounce and prevent escape)

Scottish Practices: The Privy Council’s use of port proclamations and letters of horning to prevent accused persons from fleeing the realm by sea — a common response when suspects were believed to be attempting to escape justice. The prohibition on carrying dags and pistols without licence was a recurring attempt to reduce armed violence in this period.

First Series: Volume 3
(1578-1586)

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 92

Date: 27 January 1578 (Stirling Castle)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk (Laird of Guthrie)

Role (within the document): Principal for whom caution (surety/bond) is given for appearance before the King and Council; also referenced as the Laird of Guthrie in the counter-caution.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “Cautiou by Johnne Erskin of Balhagartie for Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, that the said Alexander will appear before the King and Council on the 15th of March next, and meanwhile will keep the peace…” “…for their good behaviour meanwhile to the Laird of Guthrie…”

Modern English rendering: Caution by John Erskine of Balhagarty for Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, that he will appear before the King and Council on 15 March and keep the peace in the meantime. Counter-caution by the Gardins for good behaviour toward the Laird of Guthrie.

Historical Significance: This records surety bonds to ensure the Laird of Guthrie’s peaceful conduct and appearance before the royal council, typical of dispute resolution or feuding control in late 16th-century Scotland. It involves local Angus/Forfarshire families (Guthrie and Gardin/Gardyne).

Genealogical Significance: Confirms Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk as Laird of Guthrie in early 1578. This aligns with the main line of the family in Angus during a period of known feuds (e.g., with Gardynes). Useful for timeline placement of the chief.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI (minority / regency period).
• Legal Terms: “Cautiou” (caution/surety bond); “compeir” (appear); “keep the peace”; “counterpart caution.”
• Scottish Practices: Use of personal sureties and financial penalties (£1000) to guarantee appearance and good behaviour; Privy Council/Crown enforcement of peace among landed families.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 104

Date: 1578–1579 (context of Acts 1577–79)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Johnne Gorthie / John Guthrie (coittar / cottar in Tullibody)

Role (within the document): Accused of attempted murder of his own wife, Katherine Hiltoun.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “…Johne Gorthie, his coittar, in the toun of Tullibody, tuik furth Katherine Hiltoun, his spous, to the cornefeild, under silence of nycht; and thair gave hir thre or foure straikis with ane hand aix on the heid, and twa straikis with ane knyf on the wamb, thinking then instantlie to have murtherit hir, and left hir as deid…”

Modern English rendering: John Guthrie (Gorthie), cottar in Tullibody, took his wife Katherine Hiltoun to the cornfield at night and struck her multiple times with an axe on the head and a knife on the abdomen, intending to murder her and leaving her for dead.

Historical Significance: This is a serious criminal complaint of spousal attempted murder brought before the Privy Council. It demonstrates the Council’s intervention in grave local crimes during James VI’s minority, including orders for medical examination (“chirurgeonis”), detention, and trial by assize.

Genealogical Significance: Confirms John Guthrie (variant “Gorthie”), a cottar (tenant/smallholder) in Tullibody, Clackmannanshire, and his wife Katherine Hiltoun (Hilton) in 1578–79. The explicit marriage alliance with the Hiltoun family is valuable for tracing non-laird branches and social connections of Guthries in central Scotland.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI (regency period).
• Legal Terms: “Complaint”; “straikis” (strokes/blows); “murtherit” (murdered); “assys” (assize/jury).
• Scottish Practices: Privy Council handling of serious criminal complaints; use of procurators; orders for medical examination and detention pending trial.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 118

Date: 19 March 1578 (Stirling Castle)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk

Role (within the document): Protected party in a caution (surety bond) for peace; the Gardins (Gardin of that Ilk and Garden of Boith) are bound not to molest him, his men, or tenants.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “Cautiou by Master David Gardin of that Ilk and Master Gilbert Gardin of Boith… that neither they nor theirs shall molest Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, or his men or tenants.”

Modern English rendering: Caution by Master David Gardin of that Ilk and Master Gilbert Gardin of Boith… that neither they nor theirs shall molest Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, or his men or tenants.

Historical Significance: This surety bond was issued amid escalating tensions in a long-running feud between the Guthrie and Gardyne (Gardin/Garden) families of Angus. Such cautions were a common Privy Council mechanism to prevent further violence between neighboring landed families during James VI’s minority.

Genealogical Significance: Reaffirms Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk as the active Laird of Guthrie in March 1578. The bond directly relates to the Guthrie–Gardyne feud, which began in 1578 with the killing of Patrick Gardyne of that Ilk by William Guthrie. It escalated in 1587 with the murder of Alexander Guthrie at Inverpeffer. This entry captures an early formal attempt to enforce peace amid the conflict, which involved heavy casualties on both sides and ultimately weakened both families.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI (regency period).
• Legal Terms: “Cautiou” (surety bond); “molest”; “his men or tenants”; “under the pain of” (penalty).
• Scottish Practices: Use of financial sureties (£1000 and 500 merks) to guarantee peaceful conduct; Privy Council mediation of local feuds through bonds.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 126

Date: 1579 (Acts 1577–79)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Robert Guthrie of Over Dysert

Role (within the document): Complices (accomplices) in a complaint involving the taking/fortifying of Reidcastell; later remitted to be pursued before the ordinary judge.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “…Robert Guthrie of Ovir Dysert

Modern English rendering: Robert Guthrie of Over Dysert accomplices in the taking/fortifying of Reidcastell).

Historical Significance: This complaint by James Gray concerns the forcible taking and fortifying of Reidcastell (Redcastle) in Angus. The Privy Council remits the Guthries and others to ordinary justice while issuing charges against principal actors. It reflects ongoing disputes over property and castles during a turbulent period.

Genealogical Significance: Documents Robert Guthrie of Over Dysert (a cadet or related branch) active in Angus affairs in 1579. This adds to the network of Guthrie landholders beyond the main line of that Ilk.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI (regency period).
• Legal Terms: “Complices” (accomplices or associates in the crime); “remittis… to be persewit” (remits the case to be prosecuted); “horning and escheat” (outlawry and forfeiture of goods).
• Scottish Practices: Privy Council handling of property disputes involving force; remission to ordinary courts; use of horning (outlawry) for non-compliance.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 132
Date: 1579 (Acts 1577–79)
Guthrie(s) Identified: Gilbert Guthrie, Merchement herald
Role (within the document): Appointed/authorized collector and intromitter (receiver) of teinds (tithes) for New and Auld Aberdeen on behalf of the Bishop of Aberdeen; accused of forceful and violent actions in the dispute.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “…to have collectit, led, and intromettit thairwith, and to have stakit the samyn… Gilbert Guthrie, Merchement herald…”

Modern English rendering: …to have collected, led, and intromitted (taken possession) thereof… Gilbert Guthrie, Merchement herald…

Historical Significance: Part of a complex dispute over teinds (tithes) of New Aberdeen between the Bishop of Aberdeen, William Douglas of Glenbervy, and John Gordon of Cluny. The Privy Council authorizes Gilbert Guthrie (as herald) to collect the teinds, but the case escalates with accusations of violence and leads to horning (outlawry) for non-compliance. This illustrates the Council’s role in church revenue and property conflicts.

Genealogical Significance: Documents Gilbert Guthrie, Merchement herald (official royal messenger/herald), active in 1579 in an administrative capacity for the Bishop of Aberdeen. This is a notable professional role for a Guthrie outside the main Angus laird line, potentially linking to urban or court-connected branches.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI (regency period).
• Legal Terms: “Intromettit” (intromitted/took possession); “teindis” (tithes); “horning” (outlawry); “denounced rebels.”
• Scottish Practices: Use of heralds for official collection of church revenues; Privy Council intervention in tithe disputes; horning as enforcement for disobedience.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 136
Date: 1579 (Acts 1577–79)
Guthrie(s) Identified: Gilbert Guthrie (burgess of Aberdeen)
Role (within the document): One of the named burgesses/neighbours for whom caution (surety) is given regarding arrested goods from Flanders.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “Cautiou by ‘Alexander Cullane and Patrik Abircrumby, burgessis of Abirdene,’ for ‘Maister James Burnett, Alexander Quheit, Alexander Alschunder, William Robertsoun, Johnne Tullydaff, Gilbert Guthrie, and utheris nychbouris, burgessis of Abirdene…'”

Modern English rendering: Caution by Alexander Cullane and Patrick Abercromby, burgesses of Aberdeen, for Master James Burnett, Alexander Whyte, … Gilbert Guthrie, and other neighbours, burgesses of Aberdeen…

Historical Significance: This records a collective caution for Aberdeen burgesses regarding goods arrested (seized) in Flanders. It involves the Conservator of Scottish privileges abroad and reflects trade disputes and protections for Scottish merchants during James VI’s reign.

Genealogical Significance: Documents Gilbert Guthrie as a burgess (citizen/merchant) of Aberdeen in 1579. This urban professional role complements earlier mentions of Gilbert Guthrie as Merchement herald, suggesting the same or closely related individual with connections in Aberdeen. Valuable for tracing non-laird Guthries in burgh society.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI (regency period).
• Legal Terms: “Cautiou” (surety bond); “arrestit and intromettit” (seized and taken possession); “conservatour of the privilegis.”
• Scottish Practices: Collective burgess cautions for trade goods; involvement of royal conservators for overseas privileges; notarial subscription of bonds.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 130 (cross-reference p. 98)
Date: 15 April 1579 (Stirling Castle)
Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk
Role (within the document): Cautioner (surety) along with Robert Mowbray for the appearance of Margaret Leirmonth, Lady Grange (relict of Sir William Kirkcaldy of Grange).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “Cautiou by ‘Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, and Robert Mowbray, fear of Barnebowgall,’ that they will ‘entir and present Margaret Leirmonth, relict of umquhile Sir William Kirkcaldy of Grange, knycht,’ before the King and Council at Striviling or elsewhere, on 15 days’ warning…”

Modern English rendering: Caution by Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk and Robert Mowbray… that they will enter and present Margaret Leirmonth, relict of the late Sir William Kirkcaldy of Grange, knight, before the King and Council…

Historical Significance: This is a formal surety bond requiring the appearance of Lady Grange (widow of the famous Sir William Kirkcaldy of Grange, executed in 1573) before the Council. It reflects ongoing political or legal matters involving the Grange estate and associates after Kirkcaldy’s fall.

Genealogical Significance: Confirms Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk (the chief) actively serving as a cautioner in high-level affairs in 1579. This demonstrates the Guthrie laird’s involvement in national/political networks beyond Angus, consistent with the family’s status.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI (regency period).
• Legal Terms: “Cautiou” (surety bond); “entir and present” (enter and produce/appear); “umquhile” (late/deceased); “fear of Barnebowgall” (fiar/heir apparent of Barnbougle).
• Scottish Practices: Use of personal sureties with heavy penalties (£1000) to guarantee appearance before the Council; involvement of lairds in political/legal matters of widows of executed figures.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 227
Date: 8 October 1579 (Holyroodhouse)
Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie, common clerk of the burgh (Edinburgh)
Role (within the document): Signs and certifies the extract from the Burgh Records confirming the election of Alexander Clerk as provost.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “…present an extract from the Burgh Records, signed by Alexander Guthrie, the common clerk of the burgh, certifying the due and formal election of the said Alexander Clerk to the provostship…”

Modern English rendering: …present an extract from the Burgh Records, signed by Alexander Guthrie, the common clerk of the burgh, certifying the due and formal election of the said Alexander Clerk to the provostship…

Historical Significance: This records the resolution of a dispute over the provostship election in Edinburgh. The King and Council uphold the burgh’s election after receiving the certified extract from the common clerk, showing the formal role of burgh records and officials in municipal governance.

Genealogical Significance: Confirms Alexander Guthrie as common clerk (town clerk) of Edinburgh in 1579, actively involved in official burgh documentation and elections. This aligns with earlier 1579 mentions of Alexander Guthrie in administrative/heraldic roles and strengthens the identification of a prominent urban Guthrie professional.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI (regency period).
• Legal Terms: “Common clerk of the burgh”; “extract from the Burgh Records”; “provostship.”
• Scottish Practices: Formal certification by town clerks; royal oversight of burgh elections; use of burgh records as evidence in Council proceedings.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 249
Date: Late 1578 / early 1579 (continuation of earlier actions)
Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk
Role (within the document): Defender/party ordered to find caution (surety) not to molest or trouble Mr David Gardin of that Ilk and Mr Gilbert Gardin of Boith; penalized for departing Stirling without finding it and pursuing the Gardins.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “Alexander Guthre of that Ilk, having failed to find sufficient caution not to molest or trouble Mr David Gardin of that Ilk and Mr Gilbert Gardin of Boith… had been commanded to remain in Striviling till he did find such caution. He had, nevertheless, departed… and ‘in the menetyme takis avantage be persute of the said Mr David and his freindis’…” “…Alexander Guthrie or his men shall not molest the said Mr David or his men, under pain of £1000.”

Modern English rendering: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, having failed to find sufficient caution not to molest or trouble Mr David Gardin of that Ilk and Mr Gilbert Gardin of Boith… had been commanded to remain in Stirling until he did find such caution. He had nevertheless departed… and in the meantime takes advantage by pursuing the said Mr David and his friends… Alexander Guthrie or his men shall not molest the said Mr David or his men, under pain of £1000.

Historical Significance: This is a continuation of the Guthrie–Gardyne feud (see earlier pp. 92 and 118). The Privy Council enforces peace bonds with penalties and requires the laird to remain in Stirling until he finds surety. It shows active Council intervention in ongoing clan/family violence in Angus.

Genealogical Significance: Confirms ongoing legal troubles for Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk (the chief) in the feud with the Gardin family. The repeated cautions and penalties illustrate the financial and personal strain on the Guthrie chief during this period.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI (regency period).
• Legal Terms: “Caution” (surety bond); “molest or trouble”; “souritie” (surety); “horning” (outlawry); “procurator” (legal representative).
• Scottish Practices: Requirement to find personal sureties with heavy penalties (£1000); enforcement of peace bonds in feuds; use of procurators in Council proceedings.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 266
Date: 1579–80 (Acts 1579–81)
Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk and his son (Alexander Guthrie, apparent heir / younger)
Role (within the document): Cautioners (sureties) giving bond of £1000 that Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk will not invade, molest, trouble, or pursue Mr David Gardin of that Ilk or his men.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “Cautiou in £1000, by Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, and Alexander Guthrie, his son and apparent heir, that the former shall not ‘invade, molest, troubill, nor persew’ Mr David Gardin of that Ilk, or his men…”

Modern English rendering: Caution in £1000, by Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk and Alexander Guthrie, his son and apparent heir, that the former shall not invade, molest, trouble, nor pursue Mr David Gardin of that Ilk, or his men…

Historical Significance: This is a further continuation of the Guthrie–Gardyne feud (see earlier entries pp. 92, 118, 389–390). The Council requires a substantial surety bond from the laird and his heir to enforce peace with the Gardin family.

Genealogical Significance: Explicitly names Alexander Guthrie, son and apparent heir of Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk. This is valuable direct evidence of succession in the main line during the height of the feud. It confirms the father–son relationship and the son’s status as heir in 1579–80.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI (regency period).
• Legal Terms: “Cautiou in £1000”; “invade, molest, troubill, nor persew” (invade, molest, trouble, nor pursue); “apparent heir.”
• Scottish Practices: Joint sureties by father and heir; substantial financial penalties to enforce peace in feuds; reference to prior acts of caution.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 303
Date: 7 September 1580 (Holyroodhouse)
Guthrie(s) Identified: Johnne Guthrie, burgess of Montrose and searcher-depute within the town of Montrose
Role (within the document): Accused of malversation of duty (misconduct) regarding execution of letters, surety, and handling of threescore pounds money; ordered to be denounced rebel and put to the horn (outlawed).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “…to Johne Guthrie, burgess of Montrois, his searcher-depute within the town of Montrois… Nevertheless, Guthrie had caused the surety… ‘to the justice-clerk and his deputis for agane bringing of the saidis utheris letters dewlie execute and indorsat’… Moreover, he ‘hes dissaitfullie maid paction with the pairtie callit to underly the lawis, and abstractit and retenis the saidis utheris letters fra the said James…'” “…the order is to ‘denunce the said Johnne Guthrie our Soverane Lordis rebell, and put him to the horne, and to escheitt, etc.'”

Modern English rendering: …to John Guthrie, burgess of Montrose, his searcher-depute within the town of Montrose… Nevertheless, Guthrie had caused the surety… to the justice-clerk and his deputies for again bringing of the said other letters duly executed and endorsed… Moreover, he has deceitfully made paction with the party called to underlie the laws, and abstracted and retains the said other letters from the said James… the order is to denounce the said John Guthrie our Sovereign Lord’s rebel, and put him to the horn, and to escheat, etc.

Historical Significance: This is a complaint by high officials (comptroller and searcher-general) against a local deputy for misconduct in executing letters and handling funds/surety. It results in the standard penalty of horning (outlawry) and escheat (forfeiture), showing enforcement of official duties in burgh administration.

Genealogical Significance: Documents John Guthrie, burgess of Montrose and searcher-depute, active in 1580. This matches the index entry for John Guthrie, searcher-depute (pp. 303, 382) and provides occupational detail for a Montrose-based Guthrie.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: “Searcher-depute”; “malversation of duty”; “denunce… rebell, and put him to the horne, and to escheitt” (denounce as rebel, put to the horn/outlawry, and escheat/forfeit goods).
• Scottish Practices: Use of deputies for official duties (searcher roles); horning and escheat as penalties for misconduct by officials; complaints by central officials against local deputies.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 361
Date: 1 March 1580–81 (Holyroodhouse)
Guthrie(s) Identified:

• William Guthre, servitor of James Ogilvie of Balfour
• David Guthre of Tullois
• Robert Guthrie of Lunan (via his servitor Patrick Grant)

Role (within the document): Complices/accomplices in a violent armed attack on Reidcastell (Red Castle); ordered to be denounced rebels and put to the horn (outlawed).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “…William Guthre, servitor of James Ogilvie of Balfour, David Guthre of Tullois, and Patrik Grant, servitor of Robert Guthrie of Lunan, ‘with divers utheris thair complices bodin in feir of weir,’ to Reidcastell…”

Modern English rendering: …William Guthre, servitor of James Ogilvie of Balfour, David Guthre of Tullois, and Patrick Grant, servitor of Robert Guthrie of Lunan, “with divers others their complices bodin in fear of weir,” to Reidcastell…

Historical Significance: This is a major complaint of armed assault and taking of Reidcastell (Red Castle) by a large group led by James Gray and Andro Gray. The Privy Council orders horning (outlawry) for the non-appearing defenders, including the named Guthries. It continues the pattern of violent property disputes in Angus.

Genealogical Significance: Documents three Guthries in 1580–81:

• William Guthre, servitor (retainer/servant) of James Ogilvie of Balfour.
• David Guthre of Tullois (Tulloes).
• Robert Guthrie of Lunan (via his servitor).

These are cadet or related branches active in local conflicts. Useful for mapping Guthrie landholders and networks in Angus.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: “Bodin in feir of weir” (armed in fear of war/armed band); “malversation of duty” (in related entries); “denunce… rebellis, and put thame to the horne, and to escheitt” (denounce as rebels, put to the horn/outlawry, and escheat).
• Scottish Practices: Large armed groups in property disputes; horning and escheat as standard penalties for non-appearance; servitors named alongside their masters in legal actions.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 382
Date: 1580–81 (continuation of earlier actions)
Guthrie(s) Identified:

• John Guthrie, burgess of Montrose
• Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk (cautioner/surety)

Role (within the document): John Guthrie is the principal required to answer a complaint; Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk stands caution (surety) of 100 merks for his appearance.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “Cautiou in 100 merks by Alexander Guthre of that Ilk for Johnne Guthre, burgess of Montrois, that he shall answer before the Council, upon the 1st of June next, to a complaint ‘maid upoun him be Sir William Murray of Tullybardin, knycht, his Hienes comptrollar, and James Mowbra of Petlevir, searcheour generall…'”

Modern English rendering: Caution in 100 merks by Alexander Guthre of that Ilk for Johnne Guthre, burgess of Montrose, that he shall answer before the Council… to a complaint made upon him by Sir William Murray of Tullibardine…

Historical Significance: This is a follow-up to the earlier complaint against John Guthrie (searcher-depute of Montrose) for misconduct with letters and surety (p. 303). The laird himself now stands personal surety for the burgess’s appearance, showing the chief’s involvement in supporting or protecting a Montrose Guthrie.

Genealogical Significance: Confirms the ongoing legal troubles of John Guthrie, burgess and searcher-depute of Montrose. The fact that Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk (the chief) personally stands caution for him suggests either a family connection, feudal obligation, or the laird’s role in local affairs. This strengthens links between the main line and the Montrose branch.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: “Cautiou in 100 merks”; “answer before the Council”; “comptrollar” (comptroller); “searcheour generall” (searcher-general).
• Scottish Practices: Lairds standing personal surety for burgesses or dependants; continuation of complaints through multiple Council sessions; use of modest sureties (100 merks) for appearance.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 398

Date: 3 July 1580 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• Alexander Guthrie, heir-apparent of Kyncaldrum (cautioner)
• Alexander Guthrie, servitor of Patrick Guthrie of Dagaty (principal)

Role (within the document): Alexander Guthrie (heir of Kyncaldrum) stands caution (£100) for the appearance of another Alexander Guthrie (servitor of Patrick Guthrie of Dagaty) before the justice when warned.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “Cautiou in £100 by Alexander Guthre, heir-apparent of Kyncaldrum, for the appearance of Alexander Guthre, servitor of Patrik Guthre of Dagaty, before the justice when warned.”

Modern English rendering: Caution in £100 by Alexander Guthre, heir-apparent of Kyncaldrum, for the appearance of Alexander Guthre, servitor of Patrick Guthre of Dagaty, before the justice when warned.

Historical Significance: This is a routine appearance bond involving two different Alexander Guthries from cadet branches (Kyncaldrum and Dagaty). It shows the interconnected network of Guthrie families in Angus and the use of sureties within the surname group.

Genealogical Significance:

• Confirms Alexander Guthrie, heir-apparent of Kyncaldrum (younger line).
• Introduces Patrick Guthrie of Dagaty and his servitor Alexander Guthrie. These are valuable cadet branch references that expand the known Guthrie landholding and service network beyond the main “of that Ilk” line.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: “Cautiou in £100”; “heir-apparent of Kyncaldrum”; “servitor of Patrik Guthre of Dagaty”; “before the justice when warned.”
• Scottish Practices: Personal sureties within extended family/cadet networks; bonds for appearance before ordinary justice (as opposed to the Council).

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 428

Date: 28 October 1580 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Marion Guthrie (or Borthwick), relict (widow) of Mr David Borthuik of Lochhill, advocate

Role (within the document): Principal for whom caution (surety) of £500 is given to repossess lands as declared by the Privy Council.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): “Cautiou in £500 by Mr Johnne Henrysoun of Bengour for Marion Guthre, relict of Mr David Borthuik of Lochhill, advocate, that she shall repossess Sir Thomas Ker of Pharnyhirst in whatever lands the Privy Council shall declare she ought.”

Modern English rendering: Caution in £500 by Mr Johnne Henrysoun of Bengour for Marion Guthre, relict of Mr David Borthuik of Lochhill, advocate, that she shall repossess Sir Thomas Ker of Pharnyhirst in whatever lands the Privy Council shall declare she ought.

Historical Significance: This records a property dispute involving the widow of an advocate (Mr David Borthwick of Lochhill). The Council uses a substantial surety to enforce repossession of lands, typical of its role in resolving inheritance and land claims.

Genealogical Significance: Documents Marion Guthrie (widow of advocate David Borthwick of Lochhill). This is a notable female Guthrie connection through marriage to the legal profession and landholding. It expands the known Guthrie network into legal and court circles.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: “Cautiou in £500”; “relict of Mr David Borthuik of Lochhill, advocate”; “repossess… in whatever lands the Privy Council shall declare she ought.”
• Scottish Practices: Use of sureties to enforce Council decisions on land repossession; involvement of widows in property litigation.

First Series, Volume 3 / Page 692 (note)

Date: 4 October 1584 (Holyroodhouse)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Jonet Guthrie (wife of the exiled Mr James Lawson)

Role (within the document): Noted (with Margaret Marjoribanks) as one of the wives of exiled Presbyterian ministers who defended their husbands with remarkable literary talent and bold language.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): ““Jonet Guthrie” and “Margaret Marjoribanks,” the wives of the exiled Lawson and Balcanquhal. With remarkable literary talent, and with citation even of Chaucer in aid of their wit, these ladies had been made to defend their husbands in language bolder than had been dared by the husbands themselves…”

Modern English rendering: “Jonet Guthrie” and “Margaret Marjoribanks,” the wives of the exiled Lawson and Balcanquhal. With remarkable literary talent, and with citation even of Chaucer in aid of their wit, these ladies had been made to defend their husbands in language bolder than had been dared by the husbands themselves…

Historical Significance: This note highlights the active role of ministers’ wives in the religious controversies of the 1580s. Jonet Guthrie and Margaret Marjoribanks defended their exiled husbands (Mr James Lawson and Balcanquhal) with bold, witty, and scholarly language (citing Chaucer), drawing the Council’s attention and leading to specific orders against them. It shows the Council’s concern over Presbyterian zeal extending to women.

Genealogical Significance: Documents Jonet Guthrie, wife of the prominent exiled minister Mr James Lawson. This is a significant female Guthrie connection to the Presbyterian movement and intellectual circles of the time. It matches the index entry for Jonet, wife of Mr James Lawson (p. 692 n.).

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: “Exiled Lawson and Balcanquhal”; “language bolder than had been dared by the husbands themselves.”
• Scottish Practices: Council orders against wives for defending exiled ministers; concern over “excesses of Presbyterian zeal” extending to women; specific naming in Council records.

First Series: Volume 4
(1585-1592)

First Series, Volume 4 / Pages 191–192

Date: 23 June 1587 (events alleged to have occurred on 13 May 1587)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie, sheriff-clerk of Elgin

Role (within the document): One of several persons accused of armed convocation and spuilzie (spoliation) of salmon fishing rights on the River Spey; summoned to appear before the Privy Council and denounced as a rebel for failure to appear.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… Michael Mawar, Alexander Dunbar, son of Mr Johnne Dunbar, James Guthrie, sheriff-clerk of Elgin, “upoun the xiii day of Maii instant, with convocatioun of his Majesties lieges, all bodin in feir of weir,” carrying certain weapons, “hes ejectit and putt furth the saidis complenaris, thair servandis, fishearis and kennaris, furth of the said halff and thrid pairt coble fisheing, and hes intromettit with and spuilzeit the haill fisheis that wer takin thairupoun, extending to three lastis salmon, with the haill provisioun of salt, hemp, nettis, cobles, barrellis and utheris pertinentis…” … The said James Jak, Michaell Mawar, Alexander Mylne, Gawine Dunbar, Alexander Dunbar, and James Guthrie, having been summoned to answer, and the said Thomas Acheson appearing for himself and his spouse, but the persons so charged failing to appear, the Lords order them to be denounced rebels.

Modern English rendering:

On or about 13 May 1587, James Guthrie, sheriff-clerk of Elgin, together with Michael Mawar, Alexander Dunbar (son of Mr Johnne Dunbar), and others, allegedly assembled in armed convocation (“bodin in feir of weir”) and violently ejected the complainers, their servants, fishers, and kenners from the half and third part of the coble fishing on the Spey. They seized and spuilzied (carried off) three lasts of salmon along with all the associated gear and provisions. When summoned to answer before the Privy Council, James Guthrie and the others failed to appear and were therefore ordered to be denounced as rebels.

Historical Significance:

This entry records a violent dispute over valuable salmon fishing rights on the River Spey in May 1587. It demonstrates the Privy Council’s judicial role in handling cases of armed convocation, spuilzie, and failure to answer summons during the personal rule of James VI. Such fishing disputes were common flashpoints in northern and Highland Scotland, often involving local officials and leading to denunciation as rebels when parties ignored Council orders.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides a clear contemporary reference to James Guthrie, sheriff-clerk of Elgin in 1587. The office of sheriff-clerk was an important administrative and legal position in Elgin/Moray. This record helps anchor a James Guthrie in Elginshire at this date and may assist in distinguishing him from other contemporary Guthries (particularly those in Angus or Forfarshire lines). It offers a useful fixed point for tracing Elgin-area Guthrie families in the late sixteenth century.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI (then approximately 21 years old); the Privy Council exercising both administrative and judicial authority.
• Legal Terms:
  • Convocatioun of his Majesties lieges (unlawful assembly of the King’s subjects)
  • Bodin in feir of weir (armed and arrayed in warlike manner)
  • Spuilzie (spoliation / unlawful seizure of goods or rights)
  • Denounced rebel (formal declaration of rebellion for non-appearance, carrying legal penalties)
  • Coble fishing (salmon fishing using cobles/boats on a river)
• Scottish Practices: Use of caution/surety by third parties; sederunt (recorded attendance) of the Privy Council; summons followed by denunciation as rebel for non-appearance; detailed recording of violent dispossession of heritable or leased fishing rights.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 198

Date: After 23 June 1587 (binds appearance before the Council on 12 August 1587)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie (spelled “Guthree” in this entry), sheriff-clerk of Elgin

Role (within the document): One of two principals (with Michael Mawar) for whom caution/surety was given to guarantee future appearance before the Privy Council to answer a complaint.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution by James Finlawsoun, younger son of James Finlawsoun, burgess of Dundee, for Michael Mawar, and James Guthree, sheriff-clerk of Elgin, in £500 each, that they shall answer before the Council upon 12th August next to a complaint against them by Margaret Fraser and Thomas Acheson, master cunyeor, her spouse.

Modern English rendering:

James Finlawsoun, younger son of James Finlawsoun, burgess of Dundee, stood caution (surety) in the sum of £500 for James Guthrie, sheriff-clerk of Elgin (and likewise for Michael Mawar), binding him to appear before the Privy Council on 12 August next to answer a complaint brought by Margaret Fraser and her husband Thomas Acheson, the King’s master coiner.

Historical Significance:

This short entry illustrates the Privy Council’s flexible judicial procedure in 1587. When parties failed to appear (as seen on pp. 191–192), a third party could provide financial caution to secure their future attendance rather than proceeding immediately to denunciation as rebels. It shows how local disputes, in this case over Spey salmon fishing rights, moved through formal stages of complaint, non-appearance, and secured future hearing.

Genealogical Significance:

This reinforces that James Guthrie was actively serving as sheriff-clerk of Elgin in the summer of 1587 and remained entangled in the ongoing legal action brought by Margaret Fraser and Thomas Acheson. The involvement of a cautioner from Dundee (James Finlawsoun) may point to networks or connections between Elgin/Moray and Dundee burgess families. This record provides a useful chronological anchor for any Guthrie line connected to the sheriff-clerkship of Elgin in the late sixteenth century.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Caution (financial surety given by a third party to guarantee appearance)
  • £500 (a substantial sum for the period)
  • Answer before the Council (appear to defend against a formal complaint)
• Scottish Practices: Use of cautioners (often relatives or associates) to avoid immediate outlawry/denunciation as rebels; staged judicial process allowing time for parties to prepare or settle before a fixed hearing date.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 208

Date: 1587 (exact sederunt date not visible on this page)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Robert Guthrie of Kynblachmont

Role (within the document): Cautioner (provider of financial surety) in a bond guaranteeing that Henry Futhie in Bysaik, his son Henry Futhie younger, and Johnne Futhie in Arbroath will keep the peace toward Thomas Kyd at the Mylne of Bysaick and his household.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution by Robert Guthrie of Kynblachmont for Henry Futhie in Bysaik in 1000 merks, and for Henry Futhie, younger, his son, and Johnne Futhie in Arbroth, either of them in £500, that Thomas Kyd at the Mylne of Bysaick, his tenants and servants, shall be harmless of the said persons.

Modern English rendering:

Robert Guthrie of Kynblachmont stood caution (surety) in the sum of 1000 merks for Henry Futhie in Bysaik, and in £500 each for Henry Futhie younger (his son) and Johnne Futhie in Arbroath, binding them that Thomas Kyd at the Mill of Bysaik, together with his tenants and servants, shall be kept harmless from the said Futhie men.

Historical Significance:

This entry records a classic example of a lawburrows or peace bond issued by the Privy Council in 1587. A third party (here a laird) provides substantial financial surety to guarantee that certain individuals will not molest or harm another party and his household. Such cautions were a common mechanism to maintain order and prevent feuds or local violence from escalating, especially in rural Angus and the north-east.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides a clear and valuable reference to Robert Guthrie of Kynblachmont (Kinblethmont) in 1587. Kynblachmont was a known Guthrie property in Angus, and the designation “of Kynblachmont” indicates landed status. The entry also shows Robert Guthrie acting in a position of responsibility and trust as cautioner for individuals connected to Bysaik (near Arbroath) and Arbroath itself. This is strong evidence for the Angus/Forfarshire Guthrie network in the late sixteenth century and may help link or distinguish branches within the wider Guthrie of Guthrie / cadet lines.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Caution (financial surety given by one party to guarantee the good behaviour or appearance of others)
  • Harmless of the said persons (lawburrows / peace bond — protection from harm or molestation)
  • Merks and £ (Scottish currency; 1000 merks was a very substantial sum)
• Scottish Practices: Use of cautioners (often lairds or men of substance) to enforce peaceful behaviour; graduated financial penalties; protection of tenants and servants as part of the household unit.

First Series, Volume 4 / Pages 237–238

Date: 22 December 1587 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• David Guthrie of Kincaldrum
• William Guthrie of Halkartoun (Halkerton)

Role (within the document): Both appear as sureties in a chain of caution related to the delivery of 102 bound Bibles to a messenger in Old Aberdeen, fulfilling an earlier obligation made by the late printers Alexander Arbuthnott and Thomas Bassindyne.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution by Johnne Arbuthnote of Lentushe, as principal, and Johnne Arbuthnot of Legland, as surety for him and for David Guthrie of Kincaldru[m]… … Kincaldru[m], William Guthrie of Halkartoun, and William Rynd of Kers, that they shall deliver to Archibald Douglas, messenger, in Ald Abirdene, 102 “Biblis bundin blak and glasspitt, with all damnage and entres,” in conformity with an obligation made by the late Alexander Arbuthnott and Thomas Bassindyne, printers, as principals, and the said James Arbuthnote and the other sureties foresaid, as sureties for them.

Modern English rendering:

Johnne Arbuthnote of Lentushe stood as principal, with Johnne Arbuthnot of Legland as surety for him and also for David Guthrie of Kincaldrum. William Guthrie of Halkartoun, together with William Rynd of Kers and others, were bound to deliver 102 bound Bibles (black and with clasps/glass fittings) together with all damages and interest to Archibald Douglas, messenger in Old Aberdeen. This was in fulfilment of an obligation originally made by the late printers Alexander Arbuthnott and Thomas Bassindyne.

Historical Significance:

This entry relates to the aftermath of the famous Bassendyne Bible project — the first complete Bible printed in Scotland (New Testament 1576, Old Testament 1579). By late 1587 the printers Alexander Arbuthnott and Thomas Bassindyne were both deceased, and the Privy Council was still enforcing delivery obligations connected to the remaining stock of bound Bibles. The record shows how sureties and cautioners were used to ensure performance of earlier printing contracts.

Genealogical Significance:

This single entry contains two separate and well-documented Angus Guthries:

• David Guthrie of Kincaldrum — appearing as a party for whom surety was given.
• William Guthrie of Halkartoun — acting as one of the sureties responsible for physical delivery of the Bibles.

Both Kincaldrum and Halkerton (Halkartoun) were significant Guthrie properties in Angus. These references provide excellent fixed points for the main Guthrie of Guthrie / Kincaldrum and Halkerton cadet lines in December 1587. They are particularly valuable for distinguishing contemporary individuals bearing the same name and for tracing landholding and social networks among Angus Guthries in the late sixteenth century.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI (sederunt includes the Chancellor, Treasurer, Bishop of Dunkeld, etc.).
• Legal Terms:
  • Caution / surety (financial and personal guarantee for performance of an obligation)
  • Biblis bundin blak and glasspitt (bound Bibles in black [leather?] with clasps or glass fittings)
  • Damnage and entres (damages and interest)
• Scottish Practices: Use of layered suretyship (principal + multiple sureties); enforcement of commercial/printing contracts through the Privy Council; continuation of obligations after the death of the original principals (here the printers Arbuthnott and Bassindyne).

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 304

Date: 1588 (after the 31 July sederunt shown on the related page)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk (chief of the Guthrie family)

Role (within the document): Charged by Mr Walter Lindsay of Balgavies to answer before the King and Council to a complaint (details of the complaint not fully visible in this screenshot).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Oath of Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk in Charge had been given by Mr Walter Lindsay of Balgayis to Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk to answer before the King and Council to his complaint…

Modern English rendering:

A charge (summons) had been given by Mr Walter Lindsay of Balgavies to Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk requiring him to appear before the King and Council to answer a complaint brought against him by Lindsay.

Historical Significance:

This entry records a formal summons issued by the Privy Council in 1588 requiring the chief of the Guthrie family to appear and answer a complaint. Such charges were a standard mechanism for bringing disputes between lairds before the Council for resolution. The involvement of Mr Walter Lindsay of Balgavies suggests a local Angus dispute, possibly connected to land, teinds, or other rights (the following page references turf-taking on lands of Hiltoun, which may form part of the same or a related conflict).

Genealogical Significance:

This is a high-value reference to Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk — the head of the main Guthrie of Guthrie line — in 1588. It confirms that Alexander Guthrie was active and recognized as “of that Ilk” at this date and was involved in legal proceedings before the highest court in the land. This provides an important chronological anchor for the chiefly line in the late sixteenth century and may help link or distinguish him from other contemporary Alexander Guthries in Angus and elsewhere.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI and his Privy Council.
• Legal Terms:
  • Charge (formal summons to appear and answer)
  • Complaint (civil or quasi-criminal action brought before the Council)
• Scottish Practices: Use of the Privy Council as a court of first instance for disputes between landed gentlemen; personal appearance required unless excused; “of that Ilk” designation used to identify the chief of a family.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 324

Date: 22 September 1588 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• Johnne Guthrie of Collistoun (primary)
• William Guthree of Kingany (appears as witness/subscriber to a related band on the same page)

Role (within the document): Johnne Guthrie of Collistoun acts as cautioner/surety in a peace bond (lawburrows) guaranteeing that Mr Patrick Quhytlaw of New Grange and his son will not harm Patrick Wode of Bonnytoun or his tenant.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… and tenant to the Goodman of Collistoun, to the effect that Johnne Guthrie of Collistoun becomes surety for “the honorable” Mr Patrik Quhytlaw of New Grange in 1000 merks, and for Patrik Quhytlaw, fiar thereof, in 300 merks, that they will not harm the “honorable” Patrik Wode of Bonnytoun, or Alexander Ramsay, his tenant.

Modern English rendering:

Johnne Guthrie of Collistoun stood as surety in the sum of 1000 merks for Mr Patrick Quhytlaw of New Grange and in 300 merks for Patrick Quhytlaw, the fiar (heir apparent), binding them that they would not harm the honourable Patrick Wode of Bonnytoun or Alexander Ramsay, his tenant.

Historical Significance:

This is a standard Privy Council peace bond (lawburrows) from September 1588. A local laird (Johnne Guthrie of Collistoun) provides substantial financial surety to guarantee that another gentleman and his son will keep the peace toward a third party and his tenant. Such bonds were a common and effective tool used by the Council to prevent local feuds and maintain order in Angus and the north-east.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides a clear reference to Johnne Guthrie of Collistoun (Colliston) in 1588, acting in a position of trust and responsibility as cautioner. Colliston was a recognized Guthrie property in Angus. The entry helps anchor the Colliston branch of the family in the late sixteenth century. The secondary appearance of William Guthree of Kingany on the same page (as one of the witnesses before whom a related band was subscribed at New Grange on 19 September) adds another Angus Guthrie reference from the same small circle of local lairds and notaries.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Surety / Caution (financial guarantee for good behaviour)
  • Fiar (heir apparent / fiar of the lands)
  • Shall be harmless of (standard lawburrows phrasing protecting the named party from harm or molestation)
• Scottish Practices: Layered suretyship; registration of private bands before the Privy Council for legal enforceability; use of local lairds as cautioners to maintain peace in their districts.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 343

Date: 8 January 1589 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Gilbert Guthrie, messenger

Role (within the document): Messenger (royal officer) who had threatened to put Patrik Leith of Hairthill to the horn (denounce as rebel) for non-payment of his share of the recent barons’ taxation.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Patrik Leith of Hairthill complains that, for his non-payment of 20s. for each poundland of his five poundland of Hairthill “for the first terme of the baronis lait taxatioun,” Gilbert Guthrie, messenger, intends to put him to the horn, although the said lands of Hairthill in which he is infeft are only three pound land of old extent, as his retour and service show. He craves suspension of the said letters, having consigned £3 and found caution for farther payment in case the same lands “ar ony forder in extent.”—The complainer appearing by Robert Affleck, his procurator, but the defendant not appearing, the Lords do suspend the said letters.

Modern English rendering:

Patrik Leith of Hairthill complained that Gilbert Guthrie, messenger, intended to denounce him as a rebel (“put him to the horn”) for non-payment of 20 shillings for each poundland of his five poundlands of Hairthill as his share of the recent barons’ taxation. Leith argued that his lands were only three poundlands of old extent according to his retour and service. He asked for suspension of the letters of horning, having consigned £3 and found caution for any further amount due. The Lords suspended the letters.

Historical Significance:

This entry illustrates the enforcement of royal taxation on the lesser barons in early 1589. A messenger (Gilbert Guthrie) was actively pursuing non-payers by threatening denunciation as rebels. The case also shows how individuals could seek suspension of horning by paying part of the sum and finding caution, and how the Privy Council would grant suspension when the amount claimed appeared to exceed the true extent of the lands as proven by retour.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides evidence of a Gilbert Guthrie working as a messenger (an official royal messenger-at-arms) in January 1589. Messengers were Crown officers responsible for serving legal documents and executing decrees. The reference is useful for identifying a Guthrie in a professional legal/administrative role rather than as a laird. It may help connect to branches of the family that entered Crown service or legal offices in the late sixteenth century.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI (sederunt includes the Chancellor, Mar, Treasurer, etc.).
• Legal Terms:
  • Letters of horning (formal denunciation as rebel for non-payment or non-obedience)
  • Poundland of old extent (traditional land valuation for taxation)
  • Retour and service (legal proof of inheritance and landholding)
  • Consigned (paid into court as security)
• Scottish Practices: Use of messengers to enforce taxation and court decrees; suspension of horning upon partial payment and caution; distinction between old extent and current valuation of lands for tax purposes.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 347

Date: 18 January 1589 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Gilbert Guthrie, messenger (same individual as on p. 343)

Role (within the document): The messenger to whom outstanding tax payments were to be made; Mr Robert Maitland of Auchincreiff found caution to pay him the sums found due for his share of the barons’ tax of £40,000.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution by Mr James Maitland, servant to Sir Johnne Maitland of Thirlstane, for Mr Robert Maitland of Auchincreiff, that he shall pay to Gilbert Guthrie, messenger, such sums of money as he shall be found owing for his part of the first term’s payment of the barons’ tax of £40,000, besides the 20s. already consigned by him in the hands of the Clerk of Council; the said Gilbert, and Alexander Irwing of Drum, collector of the said tax within the bounds of [Aberdeenshire?], to be warned to answer.

Modern English rendering:

Mr James Maitland, servant to Sir Johnne Maitland of Thirlstane, stood caution for Mr Robert Maitland of Auchincreiff that he would pay Gilbert Guthrie, messenger, whatever sums were found due for his share of the first term’s payment of the barons’ tax of £40,000 (in addition to the 20s. already consigned). Gilbert Guthrie and Alexander Irwing of Drum (collector of the tax) were to be warned to answer.

Historical Significance:

This entry shows the Privy Council’s ongoing enforcement of the substantial barons’ tax of £40,000 in January 1589. A caution bond was used to secure payment to the messenger (Gilbert Guthrie) who had been pursuing the debt. It illustrates how tax collection was managed through a combination of messengers, collectors, and financial sureties, with the Council overseeing disputes and ensuring payment.

Genealogical Significance:

This confirms that the same Gilbert Guthrie, messenger, who appeared on p. 343 (threatening horning for tax arrears) was still actively engaged in tax collection and enforcement two weeks later. The fact that a laird was finding caution specifically to pay him underscores his official role. This provides useful evidence of a Guthrie serving as a Crown messenger in a financial/enforcement capacity in early 1589, which may help identify his family connections or career path.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Caution (financial surety for payment of a debt)
  • Barons’ tax of £40,000 (major extraordinary taxation)
  • Consigned (money paid into the hands of the Clerk of Council as security)
• Scottish Practices: Use of messengers to collect and enforce tax payments; layered caution to secure disputed or outstanding sums; warning of both the payee (messenger) and the collector to appear if needed.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 393

Date: 6 June 1589 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum

Role (within the document): Cautioner/surety in a lawburrows (peace bond) guaranteeing that William Tyrie, eldest son of William Tyrie of Busbeis, will not harm his father, his father’s tenants, or servants.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution by Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum for William Tyrie, eldest son of William Tyrie of Busbeis, that he will not harm his father, his tenants or servants.

Modern English rendering:

Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum stood as cautioner for William Tyrie, eldest son of William Tyrie of Busbeis, binding him that he would not harm his father, nor his father’s tenants or servants.

Historical Significance:

This is a classic example of a Privy Council peace bond (lawburrows) used to prevent violence within a family. A son (William Tyrie) was bound, through his cautioner (Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum), not to harm his own father. Such bonds were a common and practical means of maintaining order when family disputes threatened to escalate into violence or feuding.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides another clear reference to Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum in June 1589, acting in a responsible position as cautioner in a delicate family matter. It reinforces the prominence of the Kincaldrum branch of the Guthrie family in Angus and shows them participating in the social and legal mechanisms of dispute resolution alongside other local lairds. This is distinct from the chief line (“Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk” on p. 304).

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Caution (financial and personal surety for good behaviour)
  • Shall not harm (standard lawburrows phrasing protecting named parties from molestation or violence)
• Scottish Practices: Use of cautioners (often neighbouring lairds) to enforce peaceful behaviour within families; registration of private bonds before the Privy Council to give them legal force.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 397

Date: 20 June 1589 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr David Guthrie, advocate

Role (within the document): Complainer (pursuer) in a case involving alleged breach of trust over entrusted money and subsequent violent assault upon him in Kirkcaldy when he sought redress.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Complaint of Mr David Guthrie, advocate, as follows:—In March last, “he being within the toun of Kirkaldy, lugeit within the house of Johnne Quhyte thair, and having resavit the sowme of sax scoir pundis money fra certane his creditouris,” he had, “upoun ane confidence of the honestie and sufficiencie of the said Johnne Quhyte, deliverit the same sowme to him, to have bene kepit quhill his returning fra certane pairtis in Angus quhairunto he wes then agaitward…” But upon his return the said Johnne had refused delivery. When the complainer sought the assistance of James Litiljohne, bailie of Kirkaldy, the bailie allegedly refused justice and instead permitted a violent mob (Alexander Burrell, Robert Loutheane, and Robert Quhyte) to seize Johnne Quhyte and violently assault the complainer, wounding him in the face “to the effusioun of his blude in grite quantitie.” The respondents having failed to appear, the Lords order them to be denounced rebels.

Modern English rendering:

Mr David Guthrie, advocate, complained that in March 1589, while staying in Johnne Quhyte’s house in Kirkcaldy, he had received £120 Scots from his creditors and entrusted it to Quhyte for safekeeping while he travelled to Angus on business. Upon his return, Quhyte refused to return the money. When Guthrie sought help from the local bailie (James Litiljohne), the bailie allegedly refused him justice and instead allowed or encouraged a violent group (Alexander Burrell, Robert Loutheane, and Robert Quhyte) to assault him. They wounded him in the face, causing significant bleeding. The respondents failed to appear before the Council and were therefore ordered to be denounced as rebels.

Historical Significance:

This entry records a serious breakdown of law and order in Kirkcaldy in 1589. A trained advocate (Mr David Guthrie) was allegedly the victim of mob violence after a local bailie refused to assist him in recovering entrusted money. The case illustrates how quickly commercial disputes could escalate into violence when local officials failed to uphold justice, and how the Privy Council intervened by denouncing non-appearing parties as rebels.

Genealogical Significance:

This is a valuable reference to Mr David Guthrie, advocate, active in June 1589. He had professional and personal connections to Angus (he had travelled there on business) and was staying in Kirkcaldy while managing financial affairs. The fact that he is styled “advocate” indicates he was a trained lawyer entitled to appear before the higher courts. This reference may help identify or connect a legally trained branch of the Guthrie family in the late sixteenth century.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Advocate (qualified lawyer entitled to plead in the higher courts)
  • Denounced rebels (formal declaration of rebellion for failure to appear)
  • Effusion of his blude (legal phrasing for wounding causing bleeding)
• Scottish Practices: Use of the Privy Council as a court of appeal or direct intervention when local justice failed; denunciation as rebel as a powerful enforcement tool; personal appearance required in serious cases.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 415

Date: 27 September 1589 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum

Role (within the document): Cautioner/surety (in 300 merks each) for several individuals who were to appear before the Privy Council to answer charges concerning the “cruel murder” of the late Hucheon Ros in Auldearn (Auldurne).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution by Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum for Johnne Ros of Ballivat, David Ros and Walter Ros, father-brothers to the late Hucheon Ros in Auldurne, and Alexander Braibnair in Narne, in 300 merks each, that they shall answer before the Council upon 20th October next “tuicheing the cruel murthour of the said umquhile Hucheon Ros.”

Modern English rendering:

Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum stood as cautioner in the sum of 300 merks each for Johnne Ros of Ballivat, David Ros and Walter Ros (father-brothers to the late Hucheon Ros in Auldearn), and Alexander Braibnair in Nairn, binding them to appear before the Privy Council on 20 October next to answer concerning the cruel murder of the late Hucheon Ros.

Historical Significance:

This entry records the Privy Council’s handling of a serious murder case in September 1589. Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum provided substantial financial surety for several men (including close relatives of the victim) who were required to appear to answer charges related to the “cruel murder” of Hucheon Ros in Auldearn, Nairnshire. The case demonstrates how the Council used cautioners to secure the appearance of accused or implicated parties in major criminal matters.

Genealogical Significance:

This is another important reference to Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum in late 1589. His role as cautioner in a murder case shows that he was a man of sufficient standing and resources to act as surety for multiple individuals in a high-stakes criminal proceeding. This reinforces the prominence of the Kincaldrum branch and may indicate connections or influence extending into the Nairn/Auldearn area (Moray/Nairnshire).

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Caution (financial surety for appearance)
  • Cruel murthour (aggravated or particularly heinous murder)
  • Umquhile (deceased / late)
• Scottish Practices: Use of cautioners to guarantee appearance in serious criminal cases; requirement for accused parties to find surety before the Privy Council; staged process allowing time for parties to appear and answer charges.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 466

Date: 6 March 1590 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr Henry Guthrie (minister)

Role (within the document): One of the clerical commissioners appointed for the shire of Forfar (Angus) to enforce the Acts against Jesuits and seminary priests, secure subscriptions to the Confession of Faith and the General Band (Covenant), and assist in maintaining the true religion.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… Mr Henry Guthrie, Mr Henry Duncane, Johnne Foullartoun, and Mr Thomas Ramsay, in the shire of Forfar…

Modern English rendering:

Mr Henry Guthrie (along with Mr Henry Duncane, Johnne Foullartoun, and Mr Thomas Ramsay) was appointed as one of the clerical commissioners for the shire of Forfar (Angus) with powers to call before them all persons within their bounds, require them to give the Confession of their Faith and subscribe the General Band, and to use the censures of the Kirk against any who proved disobedient.

Historical Significance:

This entry forms part of a major Privy Council ordinance of March 1590 (passed at the earnest desire of the General Assembly) to strengthen enforcement of the anti-Jesuit and anti-seminary priest legislation and to secure nationwide subscription to the Confession of Faith and the General Band. The appointment of specific clerical commissioners for each shire was a significant step in the Kirk’s campaign to consolidate Presbyterian discipline and root out Catholic influence across Scotland.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides a clear and important reference to Mr Henry Guthrie, a minister, serving as a clerical commissioner for Forfarshire (Angus) in March 1590. His inclusion among the named commissioners for Angus indicates he was a respected and trusted figure within the Presbyterian Kirk in his home region. This is valuable evidence for identifying a clerical branch of the Guthrie family in Angus during the critical period of Covenanting and anti-Catholic enforcement in the late 1580s and early 1590s.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI, acting in close cooperation with the General Assembly of the Kirk.
• Legal Terms:
  • Clerical commissioners (ministers appointed with specific enforcement powers)
  • Confession of Faith and General Band (the National Covenant of 1581, renewed and enforced in this period)
  • Censures of the Kirk (ecclesiastical discipline, including excommunication)
• Scottish Practices: Close collaboration between the Privy Council and the General Assembly; appointment of named commissioners (both lay and clerical) with defined territorial responsibilities; use of subscription to confessional documents as a test of loyalty and orthodoxy.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 483

Date: 21 May 1590 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Johnne Guthrie of Hiltoun (deceased)

Role (within the document): The late husband of Agnes Auchterlonie (Auchtlirlony). His widow (now remarried to Johnne Oliphant) is protected by a peace bond against potential harm from Mr Walter Lindsay of Balgavies.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution in £500 by George Campbell of Crunane for Mr Walter Lindsay of Balgais, that he will not harm Agnes Auchtlirlony, relict of Johnne Guthrie of Hiltoun, or Johnne Oliphant, now her spouse.

Modern English rendering:

George Campbell of Crunane stood as cautioner in the sum of £500 for Mr Walter Lindsay of Balgavies, binding him that he would not harm Agnes Auchterlonie, widow of Johnne Guthrie of Hiltoun, nor Johnne Oliphant, her present husband.

Historical Significance:

This entry records a standard Privy Council peace bond (lawburrows) protecting a widow and her new husband from potential harm by a third party (Mr Walter Lindsay of Balgavies). The fact that the bond specifically names Agnes as the relict of Johnne Guthrie of Hiltoun confirms both the laird’s death by May 1590 and his widow’s remarriage. Such bonds were routinely used to prevent local disputes from escalating after changes in landholding or family circumstances.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides a clear and useful reference to Johnne Guthrie of Hiltoun (Hilton), who had died by May 1590. His widow, Agnes Auchterlonie, had remarried Johnne Oliphant. Hiltoun was a known Guthrie property in Angus associated with the Eassie/Hiltoun cadet lines. This entry helps anchor the chronology of the Hiltoun branch and confirms the connection to the Auchterlonie family through marriage.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Relict (widow)
  • Caution (financial surety for peaceful behaviour)
  • Shall not harm (standard lawburrows protection)
• Scottish Practices: Use of cautioners to protect widows and new spouses after remarriage; registration of peace bonds before the Privy Council to prevent local conflict.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 518

Date: 21 May 1590 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthre of Gagy (Gagie)

Role (within the document): Principal (the person bound) in a peace bond (lawburrows). He and his sureties stand caution that he will not harm Johnne Traill, burgess of Dundee.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution in 1000 merks by James Guthre of Gagy, as principal, and George Lundy, apparent of Gorthy, and William Airth, portioner of Auchtermuchtie, as sureties for him, that he will not harm Johnne Traill, burgess of Dunde.

Modern English rendering:

James Guthre of Gagie stood as principal, with George Lundy (apparent of Gorthy) and William Airth (portioner of Auchtermuchty) as sureties, in the sum of 1000 merks, binding him that he would not harm Johnne Traill, burgess of Dundee.

Historical Significance:

This is a standard Privy Council peace bond from May 1590. A laird (James Guthre of Gagie) was required to find substantial financial surety, along with two cautioners, to guarantee he would not harm a Dundee burgess. Such bonds were routinely used to prevent local violence and maintain order between neighbouring landowners and townsmen.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides a clear reference to James Guthre of Gagie (Gagie) in 1590. Gagie was a recognised Guthrie property in Angus. The entry shows him acting as principal in a lawburrows bond with significant sureties, indicating his status as a landed gentleman in the region. This adds another data point for the Gagie branch of the Angus Guthries.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Caution (financial surety)
  • Shall not harm (standard lawburrows protection)
  • Apparent of (heir apparent)
• Scottish Practices: Requirement for substantial sureties when binding lairds in peace bonds; use of multiple cautioners to spread risk; enforcement of peaceful relations between rural lairds and urban burgesses.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 561

Date: 29 December 1590 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Johnne Guthrie, burgess of Monrois (Montrose)

Role (within the document): The protected party in a peace bond (lawburrows). Thomas Smith, burgess of Montrose, is bound (with Henry Primrose, burgess of Culross, as surety) not to harm him.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution by Thomas Smith, burgess of Monrois, as principal, and Henry Primrois, burgess of Culrois, as surety for him, in £500, that he will not harm Johnne Guthrie, burgess of Monrois.

Modern English rendering:

Thomas Smith, burgess of Montrose, stood as principal, with Henry Primrose, burgess of Culross, as surety, in the sum of £500, binding him that he would not harm Johnne Guthrie, burgess of Montrose.

Historical Significance:

This entry records a peace bond between burgesses of Montrose in late 1590. It shows the Privy Council intervening in what appears to be a local dispute between townsmen by requiring one party to find financial surety (with an external cautioner from Culross) not to harm another burgess. Such bonds were a common mechanism to maintain order in Scottish burghs.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides evidence of a Johnne Guthrie who was a burgess of Montrose (Monrois) in December 1590. This is a useful addition to the picture of Guthrie families in Angus, showing a Guthrie integrated into the merchant/burgess community of one of the county’s principal trading towns, rather than appearing solely as a landed laird.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Caution (financial surety)
  • Shall not harm (standard lawburrows protection)
  • Burgess (freeman of a royal burgh with trading and civic rights)
• Scottish Practices: Use of peace bonds to resolve disputes between burgesses; requirement for cautioners (sometimes from outside the burgh) when binding townsmen.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 576

Date: 5 February 1591 (Holyroodhouse)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Kincaldrum

Role (within the document): One of the cautioners in a peace bond protecting Lady Poury (Allesoun Charterhous) and her sons from harm by Johnne Ogilvy of Innerquharratie, his brother David, their servants, and certain Fotheringham tenants.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution by Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Kincaldrum, for Johnne Ogilvy of Innerquharratie, and by the said Johnne for David, his brother, Archibald Ogilvy and Thomas Simsoun, his servants, Johnne Ramsay, David Walker, and Alexander Carnegy, tenants to Thomas Fotheringhame of Poury, that they will not harm Allesoun Charterhous, Lady Poury, or Mr James, Alexander, and William Fotheringhames, her sons, under the pains contained in the letters executed against them.

Modern English rendering:

Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Kincaldrum, stood as cautioner (along with Johnne Ogilvy of Innerquharratie) for Johnne Ogilvy, his brother David Ogilvy, their servants, and certain tenants of Thomas Fotheringhame of Powrie, binding them that they would not harm Allesoun Charterhous, Lady Powrie, or her sons Mr James, Alexander, and William Fotheringhame.

Historical Significance:

This entry records a peace bond arising from tensions between the Ogilvy/Fotheringham circle and Lady Powrie and her sons. The involvement of Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Kincaldrum, as a cautioner shows the Kincaldrum Guthries participating in the network of Angus lairds used by the Privy Council to enforce peaceful behaviour in local disputes.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides evidence of Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Kincaldrum, active in February 1591. As fiar (heir apparent), he was already taking on responsibilities as a cautioner in significant local disputes. This adds a generational layer to the Kincaldrum line and confirms the family’s continued prominence in Angus affairs into the early 1590s.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI (sederunt includes the King himself at Holyroodhouse).
• Legal Terms:
  • Fiar (heir apparent)
  • Caution (financial surety for good behaviour)
  • Shall not harm (standard lawburrows protection)
• Scottish Practices: Use of multiple cautioners (often neighbouring lairds) to bind parties in local disputes; layered suretyship where one party stands for another.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 578

Date: 1590–91 (exact day not shown on this page; part of the 1590–91 Acta)

Guthrie(s) Identified: David Guthrie, cordiner (shoemaker/cobbler), inhabitant of Brechin

Role (within the document): One of a group of Brechin inhabitants (mostly craftsmen) bound by caution to appear before the Council when next warned in a case brought against them by Edmond Arnold, an Englishman.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution by James Bellenden of Kynneuchan (Kilkouchen), and William Ramsay, clerk of Brechin, for David Lamb, flesher, David Guthrie, cordiner, Thomas Sewane, baxter, David Croill, cordiner, William Peiris, Thomas Smith, Alexander Taillour, Marjorie Duncane, relict of Thomas Will, all inhabitants of Brechin, in £100 each, that they shall appear when next warned in the cause pursued against them by Edmond Arnold, Englishman. — William Ramsay, notary, subscribing for Croill, Lamb, Guthrie, Peiris, Shewan, and Smith, who cannot write.

Modern English rendering:

James Bellenden of Kynneuchan and William Ramsay, clerk of Brechin, stood caution in £100 each for several Brechin inhabitants, including David Guthrie, cordiner (shoemaker), binding them to appear before the Council when next warned in a case brought by Edmond Arnold, an Englishman. The notary William Ramsay subscribed the bond on behalf of David Guthrie and several others who could not write.

Historical Significance:

This entry shows the Privy Council dealing with a group of Brechin craftsmen who were being pursued in a legal action by an Englishman. The use of caution to secure their future appearance, and the notary subscribing for those who could not write, illustrates standard burgh and legal practices of the period. It provides a glimpse into the social and economic life of Brechin’s craft community.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides evidence of a David Guthrie working as a cordiner (shoemaker/cobbler) in the burgh of Brechin in 1590–91. This is a valuable addition to the picture of Guthrie families in Angus, showing a Guthrie engaged in a skilled trade within a royal burgh rather than appearing as a landed laird or professional. It expands the known social range of the surname in the region during this period.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Cordiner (shoemaker/cobbler — a recognised craft/trade)
  • Caution (financial surety for appearance)
  • Notary subscribing for those who cannot write (common practice when parties were illiterate)
• Scottish Practices: Use of caution to secure appearance in civil actions; group bonds for multiple defenders; notarial subscription on behalf of the illiterate.

First Series, Volume 4 / Pages 587–588

Date: 26 February 1591 (Holyroodhouse)

Guthrie(s) Identified: David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin (same individual as on p. 578)

Role (within the document): One of the defenders in a continuing legal action brought by Edmond Arnold (an Englishman) and William Wesselbie concerning the alleged spoliation of goods from their ship “Barnabie.” He appeared personally before the Council.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… David Guthrie, cordiner there [Brechin], … … David Croill, David Lamb, David Guthrie, James Thomesoun, Johnne Lammert, Johnne Lokhart, James Fergus, David MᶜIlroy, and William Bad, appear personally; but, the remainder of the persons above written having failed to appear, the Lords continue the said matter till 31st March next…

Modern English rendering:

David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin, was listed among the defenders in the ongoing case brought by Edmond Arnold and William Wesselbie regarding the spoliation of goods (victuals, cables, tows, ornaments, etc.) from their ship “Barnabie.” He appeared personally before the Privy Council on 26 February 1591. Because not all defenders appeared, the Lords continued the matter until 31 March next and ordered additional witnesses to be summoned.

Historical Significance:

This entry is a continuation of the legal action first seen on p. 578 involving a group of Brechin craftsmen (including David Guthrie) and an English complainant (Edmond Arnold) over goods taken from a ship. The Privy Council was managing the case by requiring personal appearance and using caution to secure future attendance. It illustrates the Council’s role in handling maritime/trade disputes that crossed national lines in this period.

Genealogical Significance:

This confirms that the same David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin, remained actively involved in this legal matter into late February 1591. His consistent appearance as a cordiner (shoemaker) in Brechin across multiple pages strengthens the identification of a tradesman branch of the Guthrie family in the burgh of Brechin during the early 1590s.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI (sederunt includes the King at Holyroodhouse).
• Legal Terms:
  • Cordiner (shoemaker)
  • Spoliation (unlawful taking of goods)
  • Continue the matter (postpone to a later date)
• Scottish Practices: Requirement for personal appearance of defenders; continuation of cases when not all parties appeared; summoning of additional witnesses; use of caution to secure future attendance.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 598

Date: 18 March 1591 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• David Guthrie of Kincaldrum
• William Guthrie of Halkertoun (Halkerton)

Role (within the document): Cautioners/sureties (along with James Arbuthnott of Lentushe and William Rynd of Kers) for the late printers Alexander Arbuthnott and Thomas Bassinden in a continuing dispute over the delivery of bound Bibles (or payment of money advanced for them).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Complaint by Archibald Douglas, messenger, in Auld Abirdene, as follows:—He having raised letters charging James Arbuthnott of Lentushe, David Guthrie of Kincaldrum, William Guthrie of Halkertoun, and William Rynd of Kers, as cautioners for the late Alexander Arbuthnott and Thomas Bassinden, printers, to deliver to him a certain number of Bibles “bundin blak, and claspitt,” or else the sum of money advanced by him therefor… the said cautioners had obtained suspension of the said letters… which, however, they “have sufferit to ly ouer uncallit sensyne.”—The complainer appearing by James Harvie, his procurator, but the said cautioners making no appearance, the said procurator protests, in respect of their absence, that the letters obtained by the said Archibald against them shall be put to farther execution, notwithstanding the said suspension; and the Lords admit the protest and ordain accordingly.

Modern English rendering:

Archibald Douglas, messenger in Old Aberdeen, complained that he had raised letters against James Arbuthnott of Lentushe, David Guthrie of Kincaldrum, William Guthrie of Halkerton, and William Rynd of Kers (as cautioners for the late printers Alexander Arbuthnott and Thomas Bassinden) to deliver a quantity of bound Bibles or repay the money advanced for them. The cautioners had previously obtained a suspension of those letters but had allowed it to lie uncalled. Because they failed to appear, the Lords allowed the original letters to proceed to further execution despite the suspension.

Historical Significance:

This entry is a continuation of the long-running dispute over the delivery of Bibles from the estate of the late printers Alexander Arbuthnott and Thomas Bassinden (first seen on pp. 237–238 in December 1587). By March 1591 the cautioners (including the two Guthries) had obtained a suspension but failed to prosecute it, leading the Council to allow enforcement to proceed. It demonstrates how commercial obligations from the famous Bassendyne Bible project continued to generate litigation years after the printers’ deaths.

Genealogical Significance:

This confirms that both David Guthrie of Kincaldrum and William Guthrie of Halkerton were still actively serving as cautioners in this commercial dispute more than three years after they first appeared in the same matter (pp. 237–238). Their continued involvement as sureties for significant sums highlights the standing and financial responsibility of both the Kincaldrum and Halkerton branches of the Angus Guthries in the early 1590s.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Cautioners (sureties for the performance of an obligation)
  • Suspension (legal stay of execution of letters)
  • Protest (formal request for a ruling when a party fails to appear)
• Scottish Practices: Long-running commercial litigation handled through the Privy Council; use of multiple cautioners for substantial obligations; enforcement of suspensions only when actively pursued.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 603

Date: 27 March 1591 (Dalkeith)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• David Guthrie of Kincaldrum
• Alexander Guthrie, his son and apparent heir (fiar of Kincaldrum)
• Alexander Guthrie of Halkertoun
• Patrik Guthrie of Pitmewis
• Andro Guthrie of Bannabrich
• Archibald Guthrie of Muirtoun
• William Guthrie, brother of Alexander Guthrie of Halkertoun
• Alexander Guthrie in Craquhymilne
• Johnne Guthrie there (Craquhymilne)

Role (within the document): All appear as cautioners in a large-scale peace bond protecting a wide group of people (including Lady Poury and her sons, and many others) from harm.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… David Guthrie of Kincaldrum, Alexander Guthrie, his son and apparent heir, … Alexander Guthrie of Halkertoun, Patrik Guthrie of Pitmewis, … Andro Guthrie of Bannabrich, … Archibald Guthrie of Muirtoun, William Guthrie, brother of Alexander Guthrie of Halkertoun, … Alexander Guthrie in Craquhymilne, Johnne Guthrie there…

Modern English rendering:

Among the many cautioners in this large peace bond were: David Guthrie of Kincaldrum and his son and heir Alexander Guthrie; Alexander Guthrie of Halkerton; Patrick Guthrie of Pitmewis; Andrew Guthrie of Bannabrich; Archibald Guthrie of Muirtoun; William Guthrie (brother of Alexander Guthrie of Halkerton); and Alexander Guthrie and Johnne Guthrie in Craquhymilne.

Historical Significance:

This entry records one of the largest peace bonds (lawburrows) seen in the volume, involving dozens of Angus lairds and their kin standing surety for each other’s good behaviour. The sheer number of Guthries appearing as cautioners demonstrates the density and interconnectedness of the Guthrie network in Angus by 1591.

Genealogical Significance:

This is an exceptionally rich entry for Guthrie research. It names nine individuals bearing the Guthrie surname, representing multiple branches and generations:

• The Kincaldrum line (David Guthrie and his son/heir Alexander)
• The Halkerton line (Alexander Guthrie and his brother William)
• The Pitmewis line (Patrick Guthrie)
• The Bannabrich line (Andrew Guthrie)
• The Muirtoun line (Archibald Guthrie)
• The Craquhymilne line (Alexander and Johnne Guthrie)

This single document provides a valuable snapshot of the spread and relationships among Angus Guthrie families in the early 1590s.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI (sederunt at Dalkeith).
• Legal Terms:
  • Caution (financial surety for peaceful behaviour)
  • Apparent heir / fiar (heir apparent)
• Scottish Practices: Large-scale, multi-party peace bonds used to maintain order across wide districts; lairds standing surety for neighbours and kin.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 608

Date: Subscribed at Forfar, 13 April 1591; registered Edinburgh, 14 April 1591

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• David Guthrie, son and apparent heir of Alexander Guthrie, younger of Kincaldrum
• David Guthrie alias Dum David
• Johnne Guthrie alias Stratyrym

Role (within the document): Listed among the persons (along with Johnne Ogilvy of Innerquharratie and his retainers) who are to be kept harmless from the bailies, councillors, and inhabitants of the burgh of Forfar.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… James Strauchan of Carmylie, David Guthrie, son and apparent heir of Alexander Guthrie, younger of Kincaldrum, David Rossie of that Ilk, David Guthrie alias Dum David, and Johnne Guthrie alias Stratyrym, shall be harmless of the said bailies, councillors, and other inhabitants of the said burgh.

Modern English rendering:

Among those to be kept harmless from the bailies and inhabitants of Forfar were: David Guthrie, son and heir of Alexander Guthrie younger of Kincaldrum; David Guthrie alias Dum David; and Johnne Guthrie alias Stratyrym (along with Johnne Ogilvy of Innerquharratie and his retainers).

Historical Significance:

This entry records another large peace bond involving the burgh of Forfar and various Angus lairds and their followers. The inclusion of multiple Guthries (with designations and aliases) shows the Council managing complex local relationships by requiring broad suretyship to prevent violence between townsmen and rural lairds/retainers.

Genealogical Significance:

This is another highly valuable entry. It names three distinct Guthries:

• David Guthrie, son and heir of Alexander Guthrie younger of Kincaldrum (clear Kincaldrum line succession)
• David Guthrie alias Dum David (a distinguishing alias, common when multiple people shared the same name)
• Johnne Guthrie alias Stratyrym (another alias, likely indicating a location or nickname)

Together with the rich list on p. 603, these entries provide an outstanding snapshot of the interconnected Angus Guthrie families in April 1591.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Son and apparent heir (heir apparent / fiar)
  • Alias (alternative name or nickname used to distinguish individuals)
  • Shall be harmless of (standard lawburrows protection)
• Scottish Practices: Large, multi-party peace bonds to regulate relations between burghs and neighbouring lairds; use of aliases in legal documents to avoid confusion between people with common names.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 624

Date: 21 May 1591 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Kincaldrum

Role (within the document): Cautioner in a very large bond (£10,000) for William Douglas, eldest son of William, Earl of Angus, requiring him to leave Scotland via Dundee within a set timeframe and not return without royal licence.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution in £10,000 by Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Kincaldrum, for William Douglas, eldest son of William, Earl of Angus, that he shall repair to Dundee within four days hereof and depart furth of this realm within 40 days thereafter, and that he shall not return again without the King’s licence.

Modern English rendering:

Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Kincaldrum, stood as cautioner in the sum of £10,000 for William Douglas, eldest son of the Earl of Angus, binding him to go to Dundee within four days and leave Scotland within forty days thereafter, and not to return without the King’s licence.

Historical Significance:

This entry records a politically significant bond. The fiar of Kincaldrum provided very substantial surety for the heir of one of Scotland’s most powerful (and at times suspect) Catholic nobles during a period of religious and political tension. The requirement for William Douglas to depart the realm via Dundee and not return without royal permission suggests government pressure on the Douglas/Angus circle.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides further evidence of the prominence of Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Kincaldrum, in 1591. His willingness and ability to stand £10,000 surety for the son of the Earl of Angus demonstrates both his financial standing and his connections to the highest levels of Scottish society. It reinforces the Kincaldrum line’s status among the leading Angus families.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Fiar (heir apparent)
  • Caution (financial surety for performance of conditions)
  • Repair to (proceed/go to a specified place)
• Scottish Practices: Use of large financial sureties to enforce political or religious conformity and departure orders; bonds requiring named individuals to leave the realm within set timeframes.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 634

Date: 16 June 1591 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• William Guthrie, burgess of Montrose (Monrois)
• David Guthrie, his brother, burgess of Montrose

Role (within the document): Accused of refusing to assist a bailie in apprehending a murderer, then allegedly leading an armed mob that violently assaulted the bailie in his own house with intent to kill him. They failed to appear and were ordered to be denounced as rebels.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Complaint by George Wardlaw, bailie of Montrois, as follows:—Henry Erskin, brother of the Laird of Dun, having lately slain James Greg, burgess of the said burgh, the said bailie, by virtue of his office, had required the inhabitants of Montrois to assist him in apprehending the said Henry… Wherupon, the kin and friends of the deceased had raised letters against the complainer, charging him to take and present Henry before the Justice; “quhilk being ane impossibilitie to him” without assistance, he had again requested, among others, William Guthrie and David Guthrie, his brother-burgesses to give such assistance. Not only had they refused to comply, “bot, eftir mony injurious and dispytfull specheis utterit aganis him, thay convocat thair haill kin, freindis, and allya in armes, and maist awfullie invaidit and persewit him of his lyff, hurt and woundit him in divers pairtis of his body, to the effusioun of his blude in greit quantitie, and had not faillit, maist shamefullie, to have slayne him for the lauchfull executioun of his office…” Charge having been given to the said William and David to appear and answer, and neither appearing, while the complainer appears personally, the Lords ordain them to be denounced rebels.

Modern English rendering:

George Wardlaw, bailie of Montrose, complained that after Henry Erskine (brother of the Laird of Dun) had slain James Greg, a burgess, he had called on the inhabitants, including William Guthrie and David Guthrie, brother-burgesses, to help apprehend the killer. They not only refused but allegedly gathered their kin and allies in arms, violently attacked the bailie in his own house, wounded him severely, and came close to killing him in revenge for him doing his duty. William and David Guthrie failed to appear when charged and were therefore ordered to be denounced as rebels.

Historical Significance:

This entry records a serious breakdown of order in Montrose in 1591. Two brother-burgesses were accused of leading an armed attack on a bailie who was trying to apprehend a murderer. The case shows how quickly local disputes and family loyalties could escalate into violence, and how the Privy Council responded by denouncing non-appearing parties as rebels.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides clear evidence of William Guthrie and David Guthrie, brother-burgesses of Montrose, in June 1591. Their involvement in such a violent and high-profile incident (as accused parties) offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Guthrie burgesses in one of Angus’s principal trading towns. It expands our understanding of the Guthrie presence in Montrose beyond landed lairds.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Burgess (freeman of a royal burgh)
  • Brother-burgesses (brothers who were both burgesses)
  • Denounced rebels (formal declaration of rebellion for failure to appear)
  • Effusion of his blude (wounding causing bleeding)
• Scottish Practices: Bailies calling on burgesses to assist in apprehending criminals; family and kin networks mobilised in local conflicts; use of denunciation as rebel as a powerful enforcement tool.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 645

Date: 27 July 1591 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie, burgess of Elgin

Role (within the document): One of a large group of burgesses of Elgin who are to be kept harmless from William Hay, liferenter of Mayne.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution in 1000 merks by George Monro of Mekill Tarrell for William Hay, liferenter of Mayne, that Johnne Innes, younger, Johnne Innes, elder, William Innes, William Gibsoun, Mr James Gairdin, Johnne Gibsoun, Thomas Hay, Alexander Boyne, James Dowglas, Johnne Amand, Alexander Annand, James Guthrie, David Torre, William Young, Alexander Pringill, Robert Sutherland, Thomas Wamfray, James Reid, James Cuming, Robert Innes, James Innes, Johnne Innes, David Watt, Walter Auldcorn, James Ogilvy, Robert Winchester, and Johnne Andersoun, burgesses of Elgin, shall be harmless of the said Hay…

Modern English rendering:

George Monro of Mekill Tarrell stood as cautioner in 1000 merks for William Hay, liferenter of Mayne, binding him that a large group of burgesses of Elgin — including James Guthrie — should be kept harmless from Hay.

Historical Significance:

This entry records a peace bond between William Hay and the burgess community of Elgin. The inclusion of many named burgesses (including James Guthrie) shows the Council managing potential conflict between a local laird/liferenter and the merchant community of Elgin by requiring financial surety for peaceful behaviour.

Genealogical Significance:

This provides evidence of a James Guthrie, burgess of Elgin, in July 1591. Combined with the earlier reference to James Guthrie, sheriff-clerk of Elgin (pp. 191–192), this adds to our picture of Guthries holding positions of status within the burgh of Elgin in the early 1590s.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Liferenter (person with right to the fruits/profits of lands for life)
  • Burgesses of Elgin (freemen of the royal burgh)
  • Shall be harmless of (standard lawburrows protection)
• Scottish Practices: Use of peace bonds to regulate relations between lairds and burgh communities; naming multiple burgesses individually in large bonds.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 693

Date: 22 November 1591 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk (chief of the Guthrie family)

Role (within the document): Principal in a substantial peace bond (lawburrows) of 2000 merks, with Alexander Balbirnie of Innerrichtie as surety. The bond requires him and all those for whom he is answerable under the general band to keep good rule.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution by Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, as principal, and Alexander Balbirnie of Innerrichtie, as surety for him, in 2000 merks, that he and all for whom he is answerable by the general band shall keep good rule…

Modern English rendering:

Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk stood as principal, with Alexander Balbirnie of Innerrichtie as surety, in the sum of 2000 merks, binding himself and all those for whom he was responsible under the general band to keep good rule.

Historical Significance:

This entry records the chief of the Guthrie family personally entering into a significant peace bond. Such bonds were used by the Privy Council to enforce good behaviour and prevent local violence. The involvement of the chief himself (rather than just cadets or burgesses) underscores the Council’s expectation that heads of families would be accountable for the conduct of their kin and followers.

Genealogical Significance:

This is a clear and important reference to Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk (the chief) in November 1591. His appearance as principal in a 2000-merk bond demonstrates both his status and his financial standing. It provides a useful chronological anchor for the chiefly line in the early 1590s.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Of that Ilk (designation of the chief of a family)
  • Principal (the main person bound in the bond)
  • General band (the standing obligation of lairds to be responsible for their kin and followers)
• Scottish Practices: Use of substantial financial sureties to enforce good behaviour; heads of families held accountable for those under their charge.

First Series, Volume 4 / Pages 702–704

Date: 17 December 1591 (Holyroodhouse)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin (defender)
• James Guthrie (notary public, with David Falconer)

Role (within the document):

• David Guthrie was one of the defenders found liable for the wrongful spoliation of victuals from the ship “Barnabie”.
• James Guthrie (notary) had earlier subscribed an instrument in May 1589 related to a stage of the same case.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… William Peiris, Thomas Smyth, and David Guthrie, cordiner there, … … Quhilk exceptioun and allegeance being found relevant… the said William Barclay verified the same by producing an instrument subscribed by James Guthrie and David Falconner, notaries, dated 18th May 1589… … the said Edmond Arnold… and the said Thomas Shewane, Alexander Tailliour, Henrie Bany, David Croill, David Lamb, William Peiris, Thomas Smyth, and David Guthrie being also present, but the other defenders failing to appear, the Lords, having considered the rights and allegations of both parties… decern that the said Niniane Hill, Thomas Shewan, Alexander Tailliour, Johnne Mekiesoun, William Esplene, David Beg, Johnne Colme, Johnne Shewen, William Peiris, David Lamb, David Guthrie, Johnne Wodcoke, Johnne Lammert, David Keir, Johnne Reid, and Robert Bennett, havedone wrong in the foresaid spoliation…

Modern English rendering:

David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin, was one of the defenders found by the Lords to have wrongfully spoliated victuals from the ship “Barnabie”. He and the other main defenders present were ordered to restore the goods or pay the fixed prices. James Guthrie (notary) had earlier subscribed an instrument in May 1589 that was produced in evidence during the case. Most other defenders failed to appear.

Historical Significance:

This entry marks the final decree in a long-running and complex case (running from 1588 to 1591) concerning the spoliation of goods from an English ship. The Lords largely found against the Scottish defenders regarding the victuals but accepted certain exceptions regarding the ship’s furniture and ornaments. It demonstrates the Privy Council’s role in handling cross-border trade disputes and enforcing restitution.

Genealogical Significance:

This confirms that David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin, was held liable (along with others) for participation in the 1588 spoliation of the “Barnabie”. It also shows a James Guthrie acting as a notary public in Forfarshire in 1589, adding another professional dimension to the Guthrie presence in the region.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI (sederunt includes the King at Holyroodhouse).
• Legal Terms:
  • Cordiner (shoemaker)
  • Spoliation (wrongful taking of goods)
  • Notary (legal professional authorised to draw up and authenticate documents)
• Scottish Practices: Long-running litigation with multiple stages; use of notarial instruments as evidence; personal appearance required in serious cases; decrees for restitution or payment of fixed prices.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 734

Date: Subscribed at Dundee, 19 March 1592; registered Edinburgh, 20 March 1592

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• David Guthrie of Kincaldrum — principal in the 1000-merk peace bond
• Mr David Guthrie — procurator (legal representative) for the surety
• Andro Guthrie, burgess of Dundee — witness
• William Guthrie, son of Andro Guthrie — witness (“my sone”)

Role (within the document): Multiple roles in one peace bond protecting Lady Pourie-Fotheringhame and her family from William Fotheringhame in Tarbrekis.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Registration, by Mr David Guthrie, as procurator for the surety, of a band of caution in 1000 merks by David Guthrie of Kincaldrum for William Fotheringhame in Tarbrekis, that Dame Allesoun Charterhous, Lady Pourie-Fotheringhame, Mr James and Alexander Fotheringhames, her sons, Johnne and Robert Mitchellsounis, William Keill, William Oliphant, and Johnne Smith, shall be harmless of him. Subscribed at Dundee, 19th March, before Andro Guthrie, burgess of Dundee, William Guthrie, “my sone,” and Charlis Mitchellsoun.

Modern English rendering:

Mr David Guthrie acted as procurator when a bond of caution in 1000 merks was registered. In it, David Guthrie of Kincaldrum stood as principal for William Fotheringhame in Tarbrekis, binding him that Lady Pourie-Fotheringhame, her sons, and several others should be kept harmless from him. The bond was subscribed at Dundee on 19 March 1592 before Andro Guthrie, burgess of Dundee, and his son William Guthrie.

Historical Significance:

This entry records a standard peace bond protecting a noblewoman (Lady Pourie-Fotheringhame) and her family from potential harm by William Fotheringhame. The involvement of multiple Guthries in different capacities (principal, procurator, and witnesses) illustrates how the Angus Guthrie network operated across legal, landed, and burgess spheres.

Genealogical Significance:

This is an exceptionally rich entry showing four Guthries in interconnected roles:

• David Guthrie of Kincaldrum as principal (landed line)
• Mr David Guthrie as procurator (likely a lawyer)
• Andro Guthrie, burgess of Dundee, and his son William Guthrie as witnesses (burgess branch in Dundee)

It provides valuable evidence of both the Kincaldrum line and a Dundee burgess branch of the Guthrie family in March 1592, along with professional legal activity by a Mr David Guthrie.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Procurator (legal representative/attorney)
  • Principal (the main person bound in the bond)
  • Shall be harmless of (standard lawburrows protection)
• Scottish Practices: Registration of private bonds before the Privy Council; use of procurators; family members (including sons) acting as witnesses; multi-generational involvement in legal and landed affairs.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 738

Date: Subscribed at Balumbie, 28 March 1592

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie of Gagy (Gagie)

Role (within the document): Protected party in a peace bond of 3000 merks. William Lovell of Balumbie is bound not to harm him.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Registration, by Mr Olipheir Colt, advocate, as procurator for parties, of a band of caution in 3000 merks by Johnne Ogilvie of Duntrune for William Lovell of Balumbie, that he will not harm James Guthrie of Gagy. Subscribed at Balumbie, 28th March 1592, before Gilbert Luvell, brother of the said William, Alexander Begak, Hew Auchinlek, James Greg, notary, Alexander Ogilvy, and Andro Olipheir of Gagy.

Modern English rendering:

Mr Olipheir Colt, advocate, registered a bond of caution in 3000 merks by Johnne Ogilvie of Duntrune for William Lovell of Balumbie, binding him that he would not harm James Guthrie of Gagie. The bond was subscribed at Balumbie on 28 March 1592 before several witnesses.

Historical Significance:

This is a standard peace bond protecting James Guthrie of Gagie from potential harm by William Lovell of Balumbie. The large sum (£3000) and the involvement of Johnne Ogilvie of Duntrune as the cautioner reflect the seriousness with which such local disputes were treated by the Privy Council.

Genealogical Significance:

This confirms James Guthrie of Gagy was still active in March 1592. It builds on the earlier reference to him on p. 518 (May 1590) and shows the Gagie line continuing to participate in the network of Angus lairds and their legal affairs.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Shall not harm (standard lawburrows protection)
  • Band of caution (formal bond of surety)
• Scottish Practices: Registration of private peace bonds before the Privy Council for legal enforcement; use of substantial financial sureties to prevent violence between neighbouring lairds.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 741

Date: 2 April 1592 (Dunnynald)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Hercules Guthrie

Role (within the document): Witness (“my servandis” — servant of Andro Gray of Dunnynald) to the subscription of a peace bond.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Registration, by Mr David MᶜGill, advocate, as procurator for the surety, of a band of caution in 500 merks by Andro Gray of Dunnynald for Gilbert Rae, burgess of Perth, that he will not harm Sir James Skryngcour of Dudhop. Subscribed at Dunnynald, 2nd April, before Alexander Ogilvie, George Dawsoun, and Hercules Guthrie, “my servandis.”

Modern English rendering:

Mr David MᶜGill, advocate, registered a bond of caution in 500 merks by Andro Gray of Dunnynald for Gilbert Rae, burgess of Perth, binding him that he would not harm Sir James Scrymgeour of Dudhope. The bond was subscribed at Dunnynald on 2 April 1592 before Alexander Ogilvie, George Dawsoun, and Hercules Guthrie (servants of Andro Gray).

Historical Significance:

This is a standard peace bond protecting Sir James Scrymgeour of Dudhope from potential harm by Gilbert Rae. The subscription by servants of the cautioner (Andro Gray) is typical of how these documents were witnessed.

Genealogical Significance:

This introduces Hercules Guthrie, a servant of Andro Gray of Dunnynald in April 1592. The appearance of a Guthrie in a servile capacity in a legal document from Dunnynald (Angus) may indicate a lesser branch or a member of the family in domestic service. Hercules is an uncommon name and could help identify specific individuals in future research.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Servandis (servants)
  • Band of caution (formal surety bond)
• Scottish Practices: Servants often served as witnesses to legal documents executed by their masters; registration of private bonds before the Privy Council for enforcement.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 745

Date: Subscribed at Balgillie, 6 May 1592; registered Edinburgh, 15 May 1592

Guthrie(s) Identified: Adam Guthrie

Role (within the document): Witness to the subscription of a peace bond by Andro Gray of Dunnynald for Gilbert Rae, burgess of Perth.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Registration, by Mr Thomas Gray, as procurator for the surety, of a band of caution by David Lyon of Balgillie for Andro Gray of Dunnynald, and Andro Gray, his eldest son, in £500 each, that they shall answer before the Council upon 10th June next to such things as shall be inquired of them. Subscribed at Bagillie, 6th May, before Alexander Ogilvy, Adam Guthrie, James Neilsoun, and George Dawsoun.

Modern English rendering:

Mr Thomas Gray, as procurator, registered a bond of caution by David Lyon of Balgillie for Andro Gray of Dunnynald and his eldest son in £500 each, binding them to appear before the Council on 10 June to answer inquiries. The bond was subscribed at Balgillie on 6 May 1592 before Alexander Ogilvy, Adam Guthrie, James Neilsoun, and George Dawsoun.

Historical Significance:

This is a standard peace bond requiring Andro Gray of Dunnynald and his son to appear before the Council to answer unspecified inquiries. The use of witnesses (including Adam Guthrie) to the subscription is typical for formal legal documents.

Genealogical Significance:

This introduces Adam Guthrie as a witness in a legal document from Balgillie (Angus) in May 1592. The appearance of a Guthrie in this capacity may indicate a connection to the Dunnynald/Gray circle or a local branch in the area.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Procurator (legal representative)
  • Band of caution (formal surety bond)
• Scottish Practices: Witnesses (often local associates or servants) to the subscription of bonds; requirement for parties to appear before the Council for inquiries.

First Series, Volume 4 / Page 773

Date: 22 July 1592 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• James Guthrie of Easter Bannabreich (principal)
• Henry Guthrie of Deansyde (protected party, with sons Henry, Ninian, and natural son Robert Guthrie)
• Henry Guthrie, captain (context)
• Mr Patrik Lindsay, minister and provost of Guthrie (cautioner in relief)

Role (within the document): James Guthrie of Easter Bannabreich stood as principal in a £1000 bond (with Henry Guthrie of Deansyde and others protected), ensuring good behaviour toward various parties.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Caution by James Guthrie of Easter Bannabreich for Henry Guthrie of Deansyde in £1000, and for Henry and Niniane Guthreis, his sons, and Robert Guthrie, his son natural, in 500 merks each, that James Finlawsoun, elder, burgess of Dundee, James Finlawsoun, younger, there, Alexander Butchart in Deansyde, Alexander Kid, Walter Stalkaris, and Hector Miln, shall be harmless of them,—the said Henry Guthrie, captain David Boiswell, and Mr Patrik Lindsay, minister and provost of Guthrie, becoming cautioners in relief.

Modern English rendering:

James Guthrie of Easter Bannabreich stood as principal in a £1000 bond for Henry Guthrie of Deansyde (and his sons Henry, Ninian, and natural son Robert Guthrie), binding them that various parties (including James Finlawsoun, burgess of Dundee) should be kept harmless from them. Henry Guthrie (captain), David Boiswell, and Mr Patrik Lindsay (minister and provost of Guthrie) acted as cautioners in relief.

Historical Significance:

This is a substantial peace bond involving multiple members of the Guthrie family across different branches. It shows the Council using large financial sureties to maintain order among Angus lairds and their kin. The involvement of a minister/provost of Guthrie as cautioner is notable.

Genealogical Significance:

This is one of the richest entries yet for the Bannabreich and Deansyde lines:

• James Guthrie of Easter Bannabreich as principal.
• Henry Guthrie of Deansyde (with legitimate sons Henry and Ninian, and natural son Robert Guthrie).
• Connection to Mr Patrik Lindsay, minister and provost of Guthrie.

It confirms active, multi-generational involvement of these cadet lines in 1592 and links them to the ecclesiastical role of provost of Guthrie.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Son natural (illegitimate son)
  • Captain (military title)
  • Provost of Guthrie (ecclesiastical head of the collegiate church)
• Scottish Practices: Layered caution (principal + relief cautioners); bonds covering entire families/kin groups; use of substantial sums to enforce good behaviour.

First Series: Volume 5
(1592-1598)

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 2–3

Date: 3 August 1592 (Holyroodhouse)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin
• Robert Guthrie in Dunnynald

Role (within the document):

• David Guthrie is one of the defenders in the ongoing case.
• Robert Guthrie is listed among witnesses to be called.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… David Guthrie, cordiner there… … Robert Guthrie in Dunnynald…

(The full context is the continuation of the 1588 spoliation of the ship “Barnabie” by Edmond Arnold and William Wesselbie against a large group including David Guthrie, cordiner.)

Modern English rendering:

David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin, was one of the defenders in the long-running case. Robert Guthrie in Dunnynald was among those to be called as witnesses.

Historical Significance:

This is the continuation (and near-final stage) of the major spoliation case from Volume 4 involving goods taken from the English ship “Barnabie.” The Lords were dealing with proof, exceptions, and witness summons.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin (seen in Vol. 4) remained a named defender. Robert Guthrie in Dunnynald is a new reference, possibly linked to local Angus connections.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms:
  • Cordiner (shoemaker)
  • Spoliation (wrongful taking of goods)
  • Witnesses to be called
• Scottish Practices: Long-running cross-border trade disputes; summons of witnesses; denunciation of non-appearing parties.

First Series, Volume 5 / Pages 29–30

Date: 3 August 1592 (Holyroodhouse)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin
• James Guthrie (one of the Council of the burgh of Montrose)

Role (within the document): Defenders and listed parties (including burgh councillors) in the ongoing English merchant Edmond Arnold’s complaint regarding spoliation of goods from the ship “Barnabie.”

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… David Guthrie, cordiner there… James Guthrie … (listed among the council of the burgh of Monrois)…

Modern English rendering:

David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin, and James Guthrie (one of the Council of the burgh of Montrose) were named among the defenders/parties in the long-running “Barnabie” spoliation case.

Historical Significance:

Continuation of the complex, multi-year cross-border trade dispute. The inclusion of burgh councillors like James Guthrie highlights how local government officials were drawn into these legal matters.

Genealogical Significance:

Reinforces David Guthrie, cordiner in Brechin and confirms James Guthrie as a member of the Montrose burgh council in 1592. This adds a civic dimension to the Guthrie presence in Montrose.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Spoliation, decree, procurator, burgh council involvement
• Scottish Practices: Prolonged litigation with repeated summons and involvement of local burgh officials.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 47

Date: 21 July 1592 (context from surrounding acts)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Halkertoun (Kincaldrum)

Role (within the document): Surety in a 1000-merk peace bond for Johnne Crukshank of Tullimorgin.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… by Johnne Crukshank of Tullimorgin, as principal, and Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Halkertoun (Kincaldrum) as surety for him, in 1000 merks…

Modern English rendering:

Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Halkertoun (Kincaldrum), stood as surety in a 1000-merk bond for Johnne Crukshank of Tullimorgin.

Historical Significance:

This is a standard peace bond in a series of large cautions involving noble and landed families. The fiar of Halkertoun/Kincaldrum acting as surety shows the family’s continued prominence in Angus legal affairs.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Alexander Guthrie, fiar of Halkertoun (Kincaldrum) active in July 1592. This links directly to the Kincaldrum line we saw frequently in Volume 4.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Fiar (heir apparent), surety
• Scottish Practices: Layered caution bonds with substantial financial penalties to maintain order among lairds.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 196

Date: Context around 1593–1594 (case involving 1592–1593 events)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr Alexander Guthrie

Role (within the document): Subscriber of a writ/document in a case involving a ship from Dantsic (Danzig) and alleged piracy/spoliation.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… under the subscription of Mr Alexander Guthrie, stating that in the ship called the “Andro of Pittinweyme,” of which Andro Cuke is master, come from Zetland, there were 4000 “knappald and ane hundreth pece of leid,”…

Modern English rendering:

Mr Alexander Guthrie subscribed a writ stating that in the ship “Andro of Pittinweyme” (master Andro Cuke) from Zetland there were 4000 knappald and 100 pieces of lead.

Historical Significance:

This is part of a complex piracy/spoliation case involving foreign merchants (Dantsic/Danzig) and Scottish ships. Mr Alexander Guthrie’s subscription provides evidentiary support in the legal proceedings.

Genealogical Significance:

This adds Mr Alexander Guthrie (likely the lawyer/notary seen in other volumes) as an active legal professional in 1593–1594. He appears in a documentary capacity in a major maritime dispute.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Subscription (formal signing of a legal document/writ)
• Scottish Practices: Use of notaries/lawyers to authenticate documents in international trade disputes; detailed inventories of ship cargoes in piracy cases.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 248

Date: 23 December 1594 (Holyroodhouse)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Guthrie of that Ilk (chief of the name)

Role (within the document): One of the chiefs cited to appear before the King and Council (with limited retinue) to help resolve deadly feuds.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… and Guthrie of that Ilk, with not more than 24 persons, upon 8th February next…

Modern English rendering:

Guthrie of that Ilk, with not more than 24 persons, was cited to appear on 8 February next as part of the King’s initiative to resolve deadly feuds.

Historical Significance:

This is part of a major royal initiative by King James VI to purge deadly feuds and restore order among the nobility and lairds. The citation of the chief of the Guthries alongside other prominent figures shows the family’s standing in national affairs.

Genealogical Significance:

This confirms Guthrie of that Ilk (the chief) as an active participant in high-level reconciliation efforts in late 1594. It provides a useful chronological anchor for the chiefly line.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI personally directing the Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Deadly feuds, cited, retinue limited to 24 persons
• Scottish Practices: Royal summons of chiefs to reconcile feuds; limits on armed retinues to prevent escalation.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 251

Date: 29 December 1594 (Holyroodhouse)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Robert Guthrie (son of Patrik Gottray)

Role (within the document): Accused (with his father) of a violent assault on the King’s lackey; to be denounced as rebel for non-appearance.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… Patrik Gottray, dwelling at the mill of Aytoun, and Robert Guthrie, his son, came, under cloud and silence of night, and most cruelly and unmercifully assaulted him…

Modern English rendering:

Patrik Gottray and his son Robert Guthrie violently assaulted the King’s lackey and are to be denounced as rebels for failing to appear.

Historical Significance:

This records a serious nocturnal assault on a royal servant. The Privy Council responded with denunciation as rebels, a standard enforcement mechanism.

Genealogical Significance:

Introduces Robert Guthrie, son of Patrik Gottray (mill of Aytoun). The spelling “Gottray” may be a variant of Guthrie or indicate a related family. Worth monitoring for connections to Angus branches.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Denounced rebels, assault
• Scottish Practices: Swift denunciation for non-appearance in serious crimes; protection of royal servants.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 259

Date: Context c. 1595–96

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr James Guthrie

Role (within the document): Minister at Urquhart; subject of a complaint by Alexander, Lord Urquhart, regarding deposition from ministry and related disorders.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… and Mr James Guthrie, minister at Urquhart, and the parishioners thereof, for their interest…

Modern English rendering:

Mr James Guthrie, minister at Urquhart, was named in a complaint by Lord Urquhart concerning his ministry and related issues.

Historical Significance:

This records a dispute over the deposition of a minister and parish governance. It highlights tensions between local lords and the church ministry in the 1590s.

Genealogical Significance:

This is the Mr James Guthrie, minister at Urquhart referenced in the index. It adds an ecclesiastical role for a Guthrie in the Urquhart area.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Ministry of the evangel, deposition, contempt of decree
• Scottish Practices: Council involvement in church disputes; deposition of ministers.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 277

Date: 1 March 1595 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• William Guthrie (brother of Guthrie of that Ilk)
• Guthrie of that Ilk (identified as the brother of William)

Role (within the document): William Guthrie (brother of the chief) failed to appear to resolve his feud with Gairdin of that Ilk and is to be denounced rebel. Guthrie of that Ilk is simply identified as William’s brother.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

William Guthrie, brother of Guthrie of that Ilk, having failed to appear this day to underlie such order as should have been given for removing the feud between him and Gairdin of that Ilk, is to be denounced rebel.

Modern English rendering:

William Guthrie, brother of Guthrie of that Ilk, failed to appear to resolve the feud with Gairdin of that Ilk and is to be denounced as rebel.

Historical Significance:

This is part of King James VI’s campaign to suppress deadly feuds. William Guthrie (brother of the chief) is specifically targeted for non-compliance.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms William Guthrie as brother of the chief (Guthrie of that Ilk) in early 1595. Useful for mapping immediate family of the chiefly line.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI directing the Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Denounced rebel, feud resolution
• Scottish Practices: Royal summons of lairds to end feuds; denunciation for non-compliance.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 279

Date: c. 1595–96

Guthrie(s) Identified: Adam Guthrie in Langlandis (Langlands of Guthrie)

Role (within the document): Accused of resetting (harbouring) and entertaining rebels who had been denounced and excommunicated.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… Adam Guthrie in Langlandis, and David Rossie of that Ilk, who continually, since the said offenders were denounced and excommunicated, reset and entertain them…

Modern English rendering:

Adam Guthrie in Langlandis was accused of continually resetting and entertaining rebels (along with others) after they had been denounced and excommunicated.

Historical Significance:

This is part of a case involving serious accusations of supporting rebels against royal and religious authority. The Privy Council was dealing with enforcement of denunciations and excommunications.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Adam Guthrie in Langlandis (Langlands of Guthrie) in 1595–96. This matches the index reference and links to the Langlands of Guthrie property.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Reset (harbouring rebels), denounced, excommunicated
• Scottish Practices: Harsh penalties for aiding those under royal denunciation or church excommunication.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 296

Date: 17 June 1596 (Holyroodhouse)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie (burgess/inhabitant of Elgin)

Role (within the document): Named among persons against whom letters of horning were allegedly wrongly executed; part of a suspension complaint by William Hay of Mayne.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… James Guthrie … burgesses and inhabitants of Elgin…

Modern English rendering:

James Guthrie (one of the burgesses and inhabitants of Elgin) was named in the complaint by William Hay of Mayne regarding wrongly executed letters of horning.

Historical Significance:

This is a legal dispute over the validity of horning (outlawry) letters. The Lords suspended the letters pending further review.

Genealogical Significance:

Adds James Guthrie of Elgin as a named burgess/inhabitant in 1596. This matches earlier Elgin references and helps track the Elgin branch.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Letters of horning, suspension
• Scottish Practices: Use of horning as enforcement; complaints to suspend such letters when improperly raised.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 300

Date: 8 July 1596 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: William Guthrie (brother of the Laird of Guthrie)

Role (within the document): Complainer seeking suspension of letters of horning related to the feud with the Laird of Gairdin.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Complaint by William Guthrie, brother of the Laird of Guthrie, that, for his non-appearance on a certain day bygone in order to the removing of the feud between him and the Laird of Gairdin, he has been put to the horn.

Modern English rendering:

William Guthrie, brother of the Laird of Guthrie, complained that he had been put to the horn for non-appearance in resolving the feud with the Laird of Gairdin and sought suspension of the horning.

Historical Significance:

This continues the long-running feud resolution efforts between the Guthries and Gairdins. The Privy Council was handling suspension of horning letters.

Genealogical Significance:

Reinforces William Guthrie as brother of the Laird/Chief of Guthrie in 1596. Consistent with the earlier p. 277 reference.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Letters of horning, suspension, feud
• Scottish Practices: Use of horning as enforcement; complaints to suspend such letters when improperly applied.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 356

Date: 1 January 1597 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr Alexander Guthrie

Role (within the document): Common clerk of Edinburgh; official subscriber of the burgh’s “Bill and Offers” presented to the King.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… by Mr Alexander Guthrie, their common clerk, in name of the said burgh…

Modern English rendering:

Mr Alexander Guthrie, common clerk of Edinburgh, subscribed the “Bill and Offers” of the burgh in the name of the city.

Historical Significance:

This records the formal submission of Edinburgh’s proposals to the King following a major tumult in the tolbooth. The common clerk’s subscription gave it official weight.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Mr Alexander Guthrie as common clerk of Edinburgh in early 1597. This aligns with earlier legal/notary references and shows his prominent civic role.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI in convention with nobility and council.
• Legal Terms: Common clerk, Bill and Offers
• Scottish Practices: Burgh officials (clerk) formally subscribing documents presented to the King.

First Series, Volume 5 / Pages 374–376

Date: 21 March 1597 (Holyroodhouse)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr Alexander Guthrie (signed as A. Guthrie)

Role (within the document): Common clerk of Edinburgh; official subscriber of the burgh’s submission and acceptance of the King’s terms regarding the late tumult.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… Sic subscribitur: Ita est, Magister Alexander Guthrie, scriba communitatis burgi de Edinburgh… … A. Guthrie.

Modern English rendering:

Mr Alexander Guthrie, common clerk of the burgh of Edinburgh, subscribed the document in the name of the community.

Historical Significance:

This records the formal acceptance by Edinburgh of the King’s terms following the December 1596 tumult. The common clerk’s subscription made it official.

Genealogical Significance:

Further confirms Mr Alexander Guthrie as common clerk of Edinburgh in March 1597. Consistent with previous references and shows his ongoing high civic role.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Scriba communitatis (common clerk), subscriptio
• Scottish Practices: Formal subscription by burgh officials to royal agreements

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 377

Date: 22 March 1597 (Holyroodhouse)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie

Role (within the document): Common clerk of Edinburgh; official subscriber to the band of caution by the Provost, Bailies, Council, and Deacons of Crafts.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… by Roger MᶜNaucht, George Todrig, Alexander Hunter, and Patrick Cochrane, bailies, before Johnne Morrison, William Naper, Mr Michael Cheisholme, Mr George Young, Archdeacon of Sanctandrois, Alexander Guthrie, common clerk of the said burgh.

Modern English rendering:

Alexander Guthrie, common clerk of the said burgh, was one of the officials before whom the band of caution was subscribed.

Historical Significance:

This records the formal caution (40,000 merks) given by Edinburgh’s magistrates for good conduct toward the Senators of the College of Justice following the recent tumult.

Genealogical Significance:

Further confirms Alexander Guthrie as common clerk of Edinburgh in March 1597. Consistent with the series of references showing his ongoing official role.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Band of caution, common clerk
• Scottish Practices: Burghs giving large financial cautions for good behaviour; formal subscription by magistrates and clerk.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 543

Date: c. 1596–97

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• William Guthrie (second son of Cristeane Moncur, Lady Halkerton)
• Adam Guthrie (his brother, son of Lady Halkerton)

Role (within the document): William Guthrie accused of molesting his mother and violently oppressing tenants/servants; Adam Guthrie referenced as his brother. William is to be denounced rebel for non-appearance.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… William Guthrie, her second son… schorit Adam Guthrie, his bruthir, alsua hir sone…

Modern English rendering:

William Guthrie (second son of Lady Halkerton) is accused of molesting his mother and oppressing tenants; Adam Guthrie (his brother) is mentioned in the complaint.

Historical Significance:

This is a serious family dispute involving violence and inheritance claims. The Privy Council was enforcing appearance and denouncing non-compliant parties.

Genealogical Significance:

Important for the Halkerton line:

• William Guthrie (second son of Lady Halkerton)
• Adam Guthrie (his brother)

Direct evidence of family conflict over the Langlands of Guthrie lands.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Molestation, denounced rebel
• Scottish Practices: Council intervention in family/land disputes; denunciation for non-appearance.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 389

Date: c. 1597

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr Alexander Guthrie

Role (within the document): Common clerk of Edinburgh, appearing with the Provost, Bailies, and Council in proceedings concerning Leith’s privileges and wine duties.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… Mr Alexander Guthrie, their common clerk, being alsua personallie present…

Modern English rendering:

Mr Alexander Guthrie, their common clerk, was also personally present with the Edinburgh magistrates.

Historical Significance:

This is part of the ongoing dispute over Leith’s rights and Edinburgh’s superiority, particularly regarding wine vending and privileges. The common clerk’s presence underscores official burgh representation.

Genealogical Significance:

Further confirms Mr Alexander Guthrie as common clerk of Edinburgh in 1597. Consistent with multiple earlier references showing his sustained role.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Common clerk, supplication
• Scottish Practices: Burgh officials appearing before the Council in inter-burgh disputes.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 393

Date: c. 1597

Guthrie(s) Identified: Guthrie of that Ilk (the chief)

Role (within the document): Chief summoned to appear and resolve the deadly feud with Gairdin of that Ilk. Gairdin is to be denounced rebel for non-appearance.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Guthrie of that Ilk to appear and underlie such order as should be given to them for removing the deadly feud standing between them… Guthrie appears personally; but Gairdin, failing to appear, is to be denounced rebel.

Modern English rendering:

Guthrie of that Ilk is summoned to resolve the deadly feud with Gairdin of that Ilk. He appears personally; Gairdin is to be denounced rebel for non-appearance.

Historical Significance:

Continuation of the royal effort to suppress deadly feuds. The chief of Guthrie complies while Gairdin does not.

Genealogical Significance:

Reinforces Guthrie of that Ilk as the active chief in 1597, involved in feud resolution.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Deadly feud, denounced rebel
• Scottish Practices: Summons of chiefs to reconcile feuds; denunciation for non-compliance.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 453

Date: c. 1598

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk

Role (within the document): Summoned (with Walter, Prior of Blantyre, Mr Thomas Hamilton of Drumcairne, advocate, and others) to appear and produce the said letters.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… and Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, to appear and produce the said letters…

Modern English rendering:

Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk was summoned to appear and produce the said letters.

Historical Significance:

This is a continuation of the long-running legal disputes and complaints involving Gairdin of that Ilk against the Guthrie family. The chief is called to produce documentation as part of the ongoing feud-related proceedings.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk as the active chief in 1598, actively involved in legal matters stemming from the feud with Gairdin of that Ilk.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Letters, summoned to appear
• Scottish Practices: Council requiring production of documents in feud-related cases.

First Series, Volume 5 / Pages 563–564

Date: 11 August 1592 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie of Easter Bannabreich (Kinfauns)

Role (within the document): Cautioner in a £500 bond for Harry Lindsay of Carrestoun (Kinfauns), and for several others listed.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

James Guthrie of Easter Bannabreich (Kinfauns), £500, and for Robert Dempstair, James Fentoun… and others…

Modern English rendering:

James Guthrie of Easter Bannabreich (Kinfauns) acted as cautioner in a £500 bond for Harry Lindsay of Carrestoun (Kinfauns) and several others.

Historical Significance:

This is part of the standard registration of caution bonds to ensure good behaviour and payment of obligations. The inclusion of Kinfauns connections links Guthrie and Lindsay families.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms James Guthrie of Easter Bannabreich (Kinfauns) active in August 1592. Strengthens the Bannabreich/Kinfauns branch and shows alliances with local families like the Lindsays.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, band
• Scottish Practices: Registration of caution bonds for peace and financial obligations.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 566

Date: 25 August 1592 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Jirden (?) Guthrie (servant to Harry Lindsay of Kinfauns)

Role (within the document): Cautioner in a 500-merk bond (with others) not to harm Petir Cochrane of Pitfour, David Cochrane, or his brother.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… Jirden (?) Guthrie and Steuart, servants to the said Hary Lindsay of Kinfawnis, 500 merks each…

Modern English rendering:

Jirden (?) Guthrie, servant to Harry Lindsay of Kinfauns, acted as cautioner in a 500-merk bond not to harm Petir Cochrane of Pitfour and others.

Historical Significance:

This is a standard caution bond to ensure peace and good behaviour. The involvement of servants in such bonds reflects common practice in landed disputes.

Genealogical Significance:

Introduces Jirden (?) Guthrie (possibly Gideon or Jordan) as a servant in the Kinfauns household in 1592. Links to the Kinfauns branch and shows service relationships.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, band
• Scottish Practices: Servants acting as cautioners in bonds for their masters’ circles.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 581

Date: 30 January 1593 (Montrose)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• Johnne Guthrie, burgess of Montrose
• Johnne Guthrie, notary public

Role (within the document): Witnesses/subscribers to the registration of a caution bond.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… before Johnne Guthrie, James Makene, burgesses of Montrois, James Scott, servant to the Laird of Kynnabir, and Johnne Guthrie and David Falconer, notaries public.

Modern English rendering:

Johnne Guthrie (burgess of Montrose) and Johnne Guthrie (notary public) were among those before whom the caution bond was registered.

Historical Significance:

Standard registration of a caution bond in Montrose. The presence of both a burgess and a notary named Guthrie highlights the family’s involvement in local legal and civic affairs.

Genealogical Significance:

Adds Johnne Guthrie, burgess of Montrose, and another Johnne Guthrie, notary public, active in January 1593. Consistent with earlier Montrose references and shows professional roles within the family.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council (local registration).
• Legal Terms: Notary public, registration of bond
• Scottish Practices: Caution bonds witnessed and subscribed by burgesses and notaries in burghs.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 584

Date: 9 April 1593 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• Henry Guthrie in Deansyde
• Ninian Guthrie (his son)
• Guthreis (his son)

Role (within the document): Protected parties in a caution bond (Robert Flesheur, burgess of Dundee, as principal, not to harm them).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… not to harm Henry Guthrie in Deansyde, or Ninian and Guthreis, his sons.

Modern English rendering:

Robert Flesheur, burgess of Dundee, was bound not to harm Henry Guthrie in Deansyde or his sons Ninian and Guthreis.

Historical Significance:

Standard caution bond to prevent harm in a local dispute. The Deansyde Guthries are protected parties.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Henry Guthrie in Deansyde and his sons Ninian and Guthreis in April 1593. Matches earlier Deansyde references and strengthens the family tree for this branch.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, not to harm
• Scottish Practices: Use of caution bonds to protect individuals from violence or molestation.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 592

Date: 5 June 1593 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr Henry Guthrie, parson of Collace

Role (within the document): Protected party in a caution bond (Alexander Blair of Bagra as principal, not to harm him).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… and for Mr Henry Guthrie, parson of Colles, 500 merks each, not to harm Alexander Kinragy of Amerdale.

Modern English rendering:

Mr Henry Guthrie, parson of Collace, was named as a protected party in a caution bond (not to be harmed).

Historical Significance:

Standard caution bond to prevent harm. The inclusion of a parson highlights the Council’s role in protecting clergy.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Mr Henry Guthrie, parson of Collace, in June 1593. Matches the index reference and adds an ecclesiastical role for this Guthrie.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, not to harm
• Scottish Practices: Caution bonds to protect individuals (including clergy) from violence.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 599

Date: 6 August 1593 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Johnne Guthrie of Colleistoun

Role (within the document): Surety in a 3000-merk caution bond for Johnne Carnegy of that Ilk (not to harm Patrick Gray of Invergowrie).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… and Johnne Guthrie of Colleistoun, surety, 3000 merks, not to harm Patrik Gray of Inuergoury.

Modern English rendering:

Johnne Guthrie of Colleistoun acted as surety in a 3000-merk bond for Johnne Carnegy of that Ilk, not to harm Patrick Gray of Invergowrie.

Historical Significance:

Standard caution bond to prevent harm in a dispute involving landed families. The high amount (3000 merks) reflects the seriousness of the obligation.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Johnne Guthrie of Colleistoun active in August 1593. Matches earlier Collistoun references and shows continued involvement in surety roles.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Surety, caution bond
• Scottish Practices: High-value caution bonds to maintain peace between lairds.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 600

Date: 24 August 1593 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Euphane Guthrie, relict (widow) of Robert Montgomerie, in Haltoun

Role (within the document): Protected party in a caution bond (not to be harmed).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… not to harm Euphane Guthrie, relict of Robert Montgomerie, in Haltoun…

Modern English rendering:

Euphane Guthrie, widow of Robert Montgomerie in Haltoun, was named as a protected party in the caution bond.

Historical Significance:

Standard caution bond to protect a widow from harm. Reflects the Council’s role in safeguarding vulnerable individuals in local disputes.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Euphane Guthrie, widow of Robert Montgomerie, in Haltoun in August 1593. Adds a female Guthrie reference and links to the Haltoun area.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, not to harm, relict
• Scottish Practices: Caution bonds to protect widows and prevent molestation.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 609

Date: 10 January 1594 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie in Gagy

Role (within the document): Principal in a caution bond (with Thomas Wode, fiar of Grange, as surety) not to harm William Lovell of Balumbie.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

By James Guthrie in Gagy, as principal, and Thomas Wode, fiar of Grange, £1000, not to harm William Lovell of Balumbie.

Modern English rendering:

James Guthrie in Gagy acted as principal in a £1000 caution bond not to harm William Lovell of Balumbie.

Historical Significance:

Standard caution bond to prevent harm in a local dispute. The high amount reflects the seriousness of the obligation.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms James Guthrie in Gagy active in January 1594. Matches earlier Gagie references and shows continued involvement in caution bonds.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, principal, surety
• Scottish Practices: High-value caution bonds to maintain peace between lairds.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 629

Date: c. 1594

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• Johnne Guthrie of Coleistoun
• William Guthrie of Gingany (Kingany / Kingennie)

Role (within the document): Protected parties in a caution bond (Alexander Falconer, apparent of Halkertoun, as principal, not to harm them).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… for Johnne Guthrie of Coleistoun, and the said Johnne for William Guthrie of Gingany…

Modern English rendering:

Johnne Guthrie of Coleistoun and William Guthrie of Gingany (Kingany / Kingennie) were named as protected parties in the caution bond (not to be harmed).

Historical Significance:

Standard caution bond to prevent harm in a local dispute. The involvement of the Halkertoun Falconer as principal links several Angus families.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Johnne Guthrie of Coleistoun and William Guthrie of Gingany (Kingany / Kingennie) in 1594. Strengthens the Colliston and Kingennie branches.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, not to harm
• Scottish Practices: Caution bonds to protect individuals from violence.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 638

Date: 20 September 1594 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie of Gagy

Role (within the document): Witness/subscriber in the registration of a caution bond.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… before James Guthrie of Gagy, Rolland Gorthie and Henry Auchinlek.

Modern English rendering:

James Guthrie of Gagy was among those before whom the caution bond was registered/subscribed.

Historical Significance:

Standard registration of a caution bond. The presence of James Guthrie of Gagy as a witness shows his local standing.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms James Guthrie of Gagy active in September 1594. Consistent with earlier Gagy references.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council (local registration).
• Legal Terms: Registration of bond
• Scottish Practices: Caution bonds witnessed by local lairds or notables.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 642

Date: 20 January 1595 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• James Guthrie of Gagy (principal)
• Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk (protected party)

Role (within the document): James Guthrie of Gagy (principal, with Johne Strauchane of Claypottis as surety) not to harm Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

By James Guthrie of Gagy, as principal, and Johne Strauchane of Claypottis, surety, 1000 merks, not to harm Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk.

Modern English rendering:

James Guthrie of Gagy acted as principal in a 1000-merk caution bond not to harm Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk.

Historical Significance:

This is a caution bond to prevent harm between the Gagy Guthries and the chief (of that Ilk). It reflects ongoing efforts to manage internal family or kin-group tensions.

Genealogical Significance:

Highlights the relationship and potential tensions between James Guthrie of Gagy and Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk (the chief) in 1595.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, principal, surety
• Scottish Practices: High-value caution bonds to maintain peace within kin groups.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 660

Date: 11 August 1595 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum

Role (within the document): Principal in a caution bond (with Thomas Fotheringhame of Poury as surety? — context indicates protection of Thomas Fotheringhame).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum for Thomas Bellie in Kirktoun of Inverarratie, 300 merks, not to harm Thomas Fotheringhame of Poury, or Thomas Fotheringhame, his son, fiar thereof.

Modern English rendering:

Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum acted as principal in a 300-merk caution bond not to harm Thomas Fotheringhame of Poury or his son.

Historical Significance:

Standard caution bond to prevent harm. Links the Kincaldrum Guthries with the Fotheringhame family in a local peace agreement.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum active in August 1595. Consistent with earlier Kincaldrum references and shows continued prominence in Angus.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, principal
• Scottish Practices: Caution bonds to maintain peace between landed families.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 663

Date: 4 September 1595 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Procurator (advocate) for the registration of a caution bond by Alexander, Master of Elphinstone.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Registration, by Mr David Guthrie as procurator, of band by Alexander, Master of Elphinstone…

Modern English rendering:

Mr David Guthrie acted as procurator for the registration of the caution bond.

Historical Significance:

Standard legal registration of a caution bond. Mr David Guthrie’s role as procurator shows his professional legal standing.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Mr David Guthrie active as an advocate/procurator in September 1595. Consistent with earlier legal references and indicates a professional branch of the family.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Procurator, registration of bond
• Scottish Practices: Use of procurators (advocates) for formal registration of legal documents.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 665

Date: 26 September 1595 (Elgin)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie, burgess of Elgin

Role (within the document): Witness/subscriber in the registration of a caution bond.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… and James Guthrie, burgess of Elgin.

Modern English rendering:

James Guthrie, burgess of Elgin, was among those before whom the caution bond was registered.

Historical Significance:

Standard registration of a caution bond in Elgin. The presence of a local burgess as witness reflects common legal practice.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms James Guthrie, burgess of Elgin, active in September 1595. Consistent with earlier Elgin references.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council (local registration).
• Legal Terms: Registration of bond
• Scottish Practices: Caution bonds witnessed by local burgesses.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 665-666

Date: 20 October 1595 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Procurator (advocate) for the registration of a caution bond by James Drummond of Nether Muretown.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Registration, by Mr David Guthrie as procurator, of band by James Drummond…

Modern English rendering:

Mr David Guthrie acted as procurator for the registration of the caution bond.

Historical Significance:

Standard legal registration of a caution bond. Mr David Guthrie continues to serve in a professional legal capacity.

Genealogical Significance:

Reinforces Mr David Guthrie as an active procurator/advocate in October 1595. Consistent with the September reference.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Procurator, registration of bond
• Scottish Practices: Use of procurators for formal registration of legal documents.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 670

Date: 12 January 1596 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Robert Guthrie of Kinblathmont

Role (within the document): Principal in a caution bond to pay 100 merks for Alexander, Lord Spynie’s escheat (or obtain nullity of horning).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Robert Guthrie of Kinblathmont for Alexander, Lord Spynie, to pay 100 merks for his escheat…

Modern English rendering:

Robert Guthrie of Kinblathmont acted as principal in a caution bond to pay 100 merks for Alexander, Lord Spynie’s escheat (or obtain nullity of the horning).

Historical Significance:

This is a financial caution related to an escheat (forfeiture) and horning. It shows Guthries acting in support of high-ranking figures like Lord Spynie.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Robert Guthrie of Kinblathmont active in January 1596. Adds a Kinblathmont branch reference.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Escheat, horning, caution
• Scottish Practices: Caution bonds to secure payment of escheats or nullify horning.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 671

Date: 8 February 1596 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr David Guthrie in Kirktoun (likely Kirktoun of Monifieth, Angus)

Role (within the document): Principal in a caution bond (not to harm David Boiswall, brother of Johnne Boswall of Baglie).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Mr David Guthrie in Kirktoun for William Kirkaldy of Glasmonth, £1000, not to harm David Boiswall…

Modern English rendering:

Mr David Guthrie in Kirktoun (likely Kirktoun of Monifieth, Angus) acted as principal in a £1000 caution bond not to harm David Boiswall.

Historical Significance:

This is a caution bond to prevent harm. Mr David Guthrie in Kirktoun takes on the principal obligation.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Mr David Guthrie in Kirktoun (likely Kirktoun of Monifieth, Angus) active in February 1596. Consistent with earlier procurator references and shows him in a principal surety role.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, principal
• Scottish Practices: High-value caution bonds to maintain peace.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 676

Date: 4–5 March 1596 (Banff and Achmeddane)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Thomas Guthrie in Windishoill

Role (within the document): Protected party in a caution bond (not to be harmed, along with many other tenants/servants).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… Thomas Guthrie in Windishoill, Johnne Jamiesoun [in] Wintertoun…

Modern English rendering:

Thomas Guthrie in Windishoill was named as a protected party in the caution bond (not to be harmed).

Historical Significance:

This is part of a large caution bond involving many tenants and servants in the Banff area. It reflects efforts to maintain peace after local disturbances.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Thomas Guthrie in Windishoill in March 1596. Helps map lesser-known Guthries in the region.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, not to harm
• Scottish Practices: Broad caution bonds protecting groups of tenants/servants.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 682

Date: 13 May 1597 (Dundee)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• Patrik Guthrie of Pitmokeis (principal)
• Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk (protected party)

Role (within the document): Patrik Guthrie of Pitmokeis acted as principal in a 2000-merk caution bond not to harm Thomas Finlasoun, burgess of Edinburgh.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

Patrik Guthrie of Pitmokeis for Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk, 2000 merks, not to harm Thomas Finlasoun…

Modern English rendering:

Patrik Guthrie of Pitmokeis acted as principal in a 2000-merk caution bond not to harm Thomas Finlasoun (with Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk, as protected party).

Historical Significance:

This caution bond links a Pitmokeis Guthrie with the chiefly line (younger of that Ilk) in protecting a burgess of Edinburgh.

Genealogical Significance:

Strong evidence of connection between Patrik Guthrie of Pitmokeis and Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk in 1597.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, principal
• Scottish Practices: High-value caution bonds involving chiefly and cadet lines.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 692

Date: 5 June 1598 (Sanctandrois / St Andrews)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Patrik Guthrie

Role (within the document): Witness/subscriber (citizen in Sanctandrois) in the registration of a caution bond.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only):

… Patrik Guthrie, Johnne Martine, citizens in Sanctandrois.

Modern English rendering:

Patrik Guthrie, citizen in Sanctandrois (St Andrews), was among those before whom the caution bond was registered.

Historical Significance:

Standard registration of a caution bond in St Andrews. Patrik Guthrie’s role as a citizen witness reflects his local standing.

Genealogical Significance:

Adds Patrik Guthrie, citizen in Sanctandrois (St Andrews), in June 1598. This matches earlier St Andrews references and shows a professional/civic branch.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council (local registration).
• Legal Terms: Registration of bond
• Scottish Practices: Caution bonds witnessed by local citizens in burghs.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 693

Date: 17 June 1598 (Elgin)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Procurator (advocate) for the registration of a caution bond by George Cumyng, burgess of Elgin.

Full Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion):

Registration, by Mr David Guthrie as procurator, of band by George Cumyng, burgess of Elgin, for Williamie Dawsone, portioner of Hemprigis, £500, not to harm James Spens, Nicole Watsone, Johnne Gillane, Walter Troupe, George Hatmaker, Alexander Watsone, and Issobell Duncane, portioners of Coutfauld, as by letters dated at Edinburgh, 8th May 1598. Subscribed at Elgin, 17th June, before James Dumbar of Pethnik, Johnne Dumbar, apparent of Struderis, Williamie Dumbar, portioner of Hemprigis, — Johnne Annand, notary public, subscribing for Williamie Dawsoun.

Modern English rendering:

Registration, by Mr David Guthrie as procurator, of a band by George Cumyng, burgess of Elgin, for William Dawsone, portioner of Hemprigis, £500, not to harm James Spens, Nicole Watsone, Johnne Gillane, Walter Troupe, George Hatmaker, Alexander Watsone, and Issobell Duncane, portioners of Coutfauld, as by letters dated at Edinburgh, 8th May 1598. Subscribed at Elgin, 17th June, before James Dumbar of Pethnik, Johnne Dumbar, apparent of Struderis, Williamie Dumbar, portioner of Hemprigis, — Johnne Annand, notary public, subscribing for Williamie Dawsoun.

Historical Significance:

Standard legal registration of a caution bond in Elgin. Mr David Guthrie continues to serve in a professional legal capacity.

Genealogical Significance:

Reinforces Mr David Guthrie as an active procurator/advocate in June 1598. Consistent with previous references.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Procurator, registration of bond
• Scottish Practices: Use of procurators (advocates) for formal registration of legal documents.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 695

Date: 1 July 1598 (subscribed; registered 4 July) (Gluqueith)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, younger (principal)
• James Guthrie, his brother (principal)
• Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis (protected party)

Role (within the document): Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, younger, and his brother James Guthrie act as principals in a caution bond not to harm Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis.

Full Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion):

Registration, by Mr Umphra Blinsile, advocate, as procurator, of band by Thomas Ogilvy of Inschewan for Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, younger, 2000 merks, and for James Guthrie, his brother, 1000 merks, not to harm Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis. Subscribed at Gluqueith, 1st July, before Andro Allane, A. Scott, and Mr Walter Schewan, notary in Kermure, writer hereof.

Modern English rendering:

Registration, by Mr Umphra Blinsile, advocate, as procurator, of a band by Thomas Ogilvy of Inschewan for Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, younger, 2000 merks, and for James Guthrie, his brother, 1000 merks, not to harm Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis. Subscribed at Gluqueith, 1st July, before Andro Allane, A. Scott, and Mr Walter Schewan, notary in Kermure, writer hereof.

Historical Significance:

This caution bond demonstrates intra-family protection within the Guthrie kindred, with the younger chief and his brother guaranteeing not to harm Patrik of Pitmoweis (a likely close kinsman/cadet). The involvement of Thomas Ogilvy of Inschewan as the formal principal is common in such arrangements.

Genealogical Significance:

Strong evidence of close kinship: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, younger, and his brother James Guthrie acting to protect Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis. Reinforces the connection between the chief’s line and the Pitmoweis branch.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, principal, not to harm
• Scottish Practices: High-value caution bonds used by landed families to maintain internal peace; often involving cadets and procurators.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 696

Date: 11 July 1598 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum (principal)
• Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis (principal)
• Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk (protected)
• James Guthrie, his brother (protected)

Role (within the document): Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum and Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis act as principals in a caution bond not to harm Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk, and James Guthrie, his brother.

Full Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion):

Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum for Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis, 2000 merks, not to harm Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk, and James Guthrie, his brother.

Modern English rendering:

Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum for Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis, 2000 merks, not to harm Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk, and James Guthrie, his brother.

Historical Significance:

This caution bond shows senior members of cadet branches (Kincaldrum and Pitmoweis) guaranteeing not to harm the younger chief and his brother. It illustrates internal family mechanisms for maintaining peace.

Genealogical Significance:

Reinforces close kinship ties: Alexander of Kincaldrum and Patrik of Pitmoweis acting to protect Alexander, younger of that Ilk, and his brother James. Consistent with earlier bonds linking these branches.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution, principal
• Scottish Practices: High-value caution bonds used by landed families to maintain internal peace; often involving multiple branches of the same surname.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 699

Date: 17 July 1598 (Banff)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Procurator (advocate) for the registration of a caution bond by William Norie, portioner of Inchdrour.

Full Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion):

Registration, by Mr David Guthrie as procurator, of band by William Norie, portioner of Inchdrour, for Walter Currou of Inchdrour, not to harm Johne Gordoun of Wachie, otherwise called Johne Gordoun of Achannachie, William Baxter at the Coble of Nethirdull, Gilbert Raittie at the Mill of Nethirdull, and James Hay of Culphyn, under pains in letters to that effect. Subscribed at Banff, 17th July, before Mr George Barclay, sheriff clerk of Banff, Robert Gordon, servitor to the said Walter Currou, and Mr George Chalmer, notary, writer hereof.

Modern English rendering:

Registration, by Mr David Guthrie as procurator, of a band by William Norie, portioner of Inchdrour, for Walter Currou of Inchdrour, not to harm Johne Gordoun of Wachie (otherwise called Johne Gordoun of Achannachie), William Baxter at the Coble of Nethirdull, Gilbert Raittie at the Mill of Nethirdull, and James Hay of Culphyn, under pains in letters to that effect. Subscribed at Banff, 17th July, before Mr George Barclay (sheriff clerk of Banff), Robert Gordon (servitor to the said Walter Currou), and Mr George Chalmer (notary, writer hereof).

Historical Significance:

Standard legal registration of a caution bond in Banff. Mr David Guthrie continues to serve in a professional legal capacity as procurator.

Genealogical Significance:

Reinforces Mr David Guthrie as an active procurator/advocate in July 1598. Consistent with multiple previous references.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Procurator, registration of bond
• Scottish Practices: Use of procurators (advocates) for formal registration of legal documents in burghs.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 706

Date: 1 October 1598 (Monrois / Montrose)

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• Guthrie, notary public and common clerk of the said burgh (Montrose)
• Johnne Guthrie of Over Dysert

Role (within the document): Witnesses/subscribers in the registration of a caution bond.

Full Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion):

… before Johnne (?) James Guthrie, notary public and common clerk of the said burgh, writer hereof, Johnne Guthrie of Over Dysert, James Wode, son of the late Roger Wode of Craig, and Johnne Smith, servitor to the said Johnne Lichtoun.

Modern English rendering:

… before Johnne (?) James Guthrie, notary public and common clerk of the said burgh (Montrose), writer hereof, Johnne Guthrie of Over Dysert, James Wode, son of the late Roger Wode of Craig, and Johnne Smith, servitor to the said Johnne Lichtoun.

Historical Significance:

Standard registration of a caution bond in Montrose. The presence of the common clerk and a local Guthrie as witnesses underscores their official and civic roles.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Guthrie (notary public/common clerk of Montrose) and Johnne Guthrie of Over Dysert active in October 1598. Strengthens the Montrose/Dysert branches.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council (local registration).
• Legal Terms: Notary public, common clerk, writer hereof
• Scottish Practices: Caution bonds witnessed and written by burgh officials and notaries.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 708

Date: 25 October 1598 (Monrois / Montrose)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie, clerk of the said burgh (Montrose)

Role (within the document): Clerk of the burgh and writer hereof (official scribe) for the registration of a caution bond.

Full Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion):

… Subscribed at Monrois, 25th October, before James Guthrie, clerk of the said burgh, writer hereof, Robert Lichtoun, provost thereof, and Patrik Lichtoun, his son.

Modern English rendering:

… Subscribed at Montrose, 25th October, before James Guthrie, clerk of the said burgh, writer hereof, Robert Lichtoun, provost thereof, and Patrik Lichtoun, his son.

Historical Significance:

Standard registration of a caution bond in Montrose. James Guthrie, as burgh clerk, serves as the official writer, highlighting the administrative role of Guthries in the burgh.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms James Guthrie, clerk of Montrose, active in October 1598. Consistent with earlier Montrose references and shows a civic/official branch.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council (local registration).
• Legal Terms: Clerk of the burgh, writer hereof
• Scottish Practices: Burgh clerks/notaries handling formal registration and writing of caution bonds.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 714

Date: 23 January 1599 (Drumfreis / Dumfries)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Procurator (advocate) for the registration of a caution bond by Walter Herreis of Knokschynnochie.

Full Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion):

Registration, by Mr David Guthrie as procurator, of band by Walter Herreis of Knokschynnochie for Robert Sinclair and Edward Sinclair, sons of Johnne Sinclair in Lag, 300 merks each, not to harm Johnne Currou in Kirkpatrik-Irnegrey, called “minister,”—Johnne Sinclair, elder in Lag, becoming surety in relief. Subscribed at Drumfreis, 23rd January, before Johnne Herreis of Bratoch, Johnne Gordoun, writer in Drumfreis, Robert Cunynghame, notary, and Herbert Cunynghawe, writer hereof, notary, who subscribes for Johnne Sinclair.

Modern English rendering:

Registration, by Mr David Guthrie as procurator, of a band by Walter Herreis of Knokschynnochie for Robert Sinclair and Edward Sinclair, sons of Johnne Sinclair in Lag, 300 merks each, not to harm Johnne Currou in Kirkpatrik-Irnegrey, called “minister,”—Johnne Sinclair, elder in Lag, becoming surety in relief. Subscribed at Dumfries, 23rd January, before Johnne Herreis of Bratoch, Johnne Gordoun (writer in Dumfries), Robert Cunynghame (notary), and Herbert Cunynghawe (writer hereof, notary, who subscribes for Johnne Sinclair).

Historical Significance:

Standard legal registration of a caution bond in Dumfries. Mr David Guthrie continues to serve in a professional legal capacity as procurator.

Genealogical Significance:

Reinforces Mr David Guthrie as an active procurator/advocate in January 1599. Consistent with multiple previous references across several years.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Procurator, registration of bond
• Scottish Practices: Use of procurators (advocates) for formal registration of legal documents in burghs.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 723

Date: 22 April 1599 (Glasgow)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Procurator (advocate) for the registration of a caution bond by Mathew Stewart of Minto for Thomas Clogy, messenger.

Full Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion):

Registration, by Mr David Guthrie as procurator, of band by Sir Thomas Clogy. Mathew Stewart of Minto for Thomas Clogy, messenger, 1000 merks, not to harm Williamie Wylie, writer in Edinburgh. Subscribed at Glasgow, 22nd April, before Robert Thornesyd of Over Possall, Mr Henry Gibsoun, Thomas Mure, bailie of Glasgow.

Modern English rendering:

Registration, by Mr David Guthrie as procurator, of a band by Sir Thomas Clogy. Mathew Stewart of Minto for Thomas Clogy, messenger, 1000 merks, not to harm Williamie Wylie, writer in Edinburgh. Subscribed at Glasgow, 22nd April, before Robert Thornesyd of Over Possall, Mr Henry Gibsoun, Thomas Mure, bailie of Glasgow.

Historical Significance:

Standard legal registration of a caution bond in Glasgow. Mr David Guthrie continues to serve in a professional legal capacity as procurator.

Genealogical Significance:

Reinforces Mr David Guthrie as an active procurator/advocate in April 1599. Consistent with multiple previous references across several years.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Procurator, registration of bond
• Scottish Practices: Use of procurators (advocates) for formal registration of legal documents in burghs.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 740

Date: 20 May 1596 (Elgin and Forres)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie, notary public

Role (within the document): Notary public witnessing the registration of a large caution bond.

Full Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion):

Subscribed at Elgin and Forres, 20th May, before Mr Alexander Douglas, minister of Elgin, George Douglas, minister at Dollas, Mr Alexander Rassoun, parson of Spynnie, Mr James Gardin and Johnne Innes of Reidhall, bailies of Elgin, William Gibsoun and James Guthrie, notaries public.

Modern English rendering:

Subscribed at Elgin and Forres, 20th May, before Mr Alexander Douglas, minister of Elgin, George Douglas, minister at Dollas, Mr Alexander Rassoun, parson of Spynie, Mr James Gardin and Johnne Innes of Reidhall, bailies of Elgin, William Gibsoun and James Guthrie, notaries public.

Historical Significance:

This is part of the registration of a very large (£10,000) caution bond by Johnne Grant of Freuchy. The presence of multiple ministers, bailies, and notaries (including James Guthrie) shows the formal and public nature of such high-value bonds.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms James Guthrie, notary public, active in Elgin in May 1596. Consistent with earlier Montrose and other notarial references and indicates professional standing.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: Privy Council under King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Registration of bond, notary public
• Scottish Practices: Large caution bonds witnessed by local officials, ministers, and notaries for validity.

First Series, Volume 5 / Page 754

Date: 21 June 1593 (Holyroodhouse; appearance)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Robert Guthrie, burgess of Monrois (Montrose)

Role (within the document): Witness (along with Richard Barclay) in the proceedings concerning the suspension of horning letters against the Provost and Council of Montrose.

Full Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion):

… executed by Johnne Broun, messenger, 15th June, before these witnesses,—David Fullartoun, Williamie Murray, Robert Guthrie, and Richard Barclay, burgesses of Monrois. Both parties appearing at Haliruidhous upon 21st June, the King and his Council…

Modern English rendering:

… executed by Johnne Broun, messenger, 15th June, before these witnesses,—David Fullartoun, Williamie Murray, Robert Guthrie, and Richard Barclay, burgesses of Montrose. Both parties appearing at Holyroodhouse upon 21st June, the King and his Council…

Historical Significance:

This records the execution of letters of charge and the subsequent appearance before the King and Council regarding the suspension of horning against the Provost and Council of Montrose. The presence of local burgesses as witnesses is standard legal practice.

Genealogical Significance:

Confirms Robert Guthrie, burgess of Montrose, active as a witness in June 1593. Consistent with earlier Montrose references and shows civic involvement.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI and Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Letters of charge, suspension of horning, witnesses
• Scottish Practices: Formal witnessing of legal executions by local burgesses; appearance before the King and Council for important burgh matters.

First Series: Volume 6
(1599-1604)

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 34

Date: 23 October 1599 (context: proceedings related to Acts 1598–1601)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie

Role (within the document): Clerk of Montrose (burgh clerk)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Robert Lichtoun, provost of Montros, Williamie Petrie and James M^Kene, baillies of the said burgh, … and James Guthrie, their clerk, having been charged by his Highness to elect Johnne, Earl of Mar, to be provost of the said burgh for this year, had disobeyed the charge and wilfully passed to the horn.

Modern English rendering: Robert Lichtoun, provost of Montrose, the bailies, councillors, and James Guthrie, their clerk, having been charged by the King to elect the Earl of Mar as provost for the year, disobeyed and were denounced as rebels (“passed to the horn”). The defenders appeared, produced a suspension of charges, but the King and Council ruled they had acted wrongly by not electing the Earl and using a pretended form of election contrary to the caution found. They were ordered committed to ward in the castles of Blaknes and Doune of Menteith during the King’s pleasure.

Historical Significance: This entry illustrates royal intervention in burgh governance during James VI’s reign. The Crown sought to impose the Earl of Mar as provost of Montrose, overriding local election practices amid efforts to control key burghs and reduce noble/burgh autonomy or factionalism. It reflects tensions between central authority and local burgh rights in the late 1590s.

Genealogical Significance: Identifies James Guthrie as clerk of Montrose in 1599, potentially linking to the James Guthrie noted in the index (clerk of Montrose, p. 34). This professional role in a burgh with strong Guthrie family ties in Angus/Forfarshire may connect to broader lairdly or merchant networks; further pages could reveal family associations or landholdings.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI (with Privy Council).
• Legal Terms: Passed to the horn (declared rebel/outlaw); suspension of charges (legal stay); caution (security/bond); ward (imprisonment).
• Scottish Practices: Royal nomination of burgh provosts; use of horning for non-compliance; collective responsibility of burgh officers (provost, bailies, clerk, councillors).

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 85

Date: 13 March 1600 (proceedings referencing events of November 1597)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Patrick Guthrie

Role (within the document): Servant (to Sir Johnne Ogilvy of the Craig / associated with the defenders in a complaint)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … in November 1597, the said Sir Johnne and James Ogilvy in Boigsyde, Laurence Burne, Patrik Guthrie, Robert Gibson, his servants, … with convocation of the lieges, all armed with hagbuts and pistolets, came by way of hamesucken to the complainer’s dwelling house of Bruistoun, and there cut down and destroyed “certane treis, policie, and planting of his yaird,” spuilyied his corns and turfs, demolished his houses, threatened his wife…

Modern English rendering: In November 1597, Sir Johnne [Ogilvy] and Patrick Guthrie (along with James Ogilvy in Boigsyde, Laurence Burne, Robert Gibson and other servants), with a band of armed followers, committed hamesucken (house invasion) at the dwelling of James Blair of Bruston. They destroyed trees/plantings, spoiled crops and turfs, demolished houses, and terrorized Blair’s wife, leaving her in peril of her life. The Lords of Secret Council assigned a proof date and ordered non-appearing defenders denounced as rebels.

Historical Significance: This records a violent feud/land dispute typical of late 16th-century Scotland, involving armed raids (hamesucken), crop destruction, and property damage. It shows Privy Council handling of serious complaints between lairds, with procedures for proof and rebellion denunciation when parties failed to appear.

Genealogical Significance: Identifies Patrick Guthrie as a servant/retainer to Sir Johnne Ogilvy of the Craig in 1597–1600. This aligns with the index entry “Patrick, in the Craig, 85, 701” and may indicate association with the Ogilvy network in Angus. Could represent a tenant, follower, or cadet branch connection worth cross-referencing with land records or Guthrie of Pitmuies/Craig links.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Lords of Secret Council.
• Legal Terms: Hamesucken (violent house-breaking); spuilyie (plunder/spoil); convocation of the lieges (unlawful assembly); denounce rebels (letters of horning); assign to proving (court date for evidence).
• Scottish Practices: Armed retainers in feuds; Privy Council adjudication of land/violence complaints; use of servants in disputes.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 107

Date: 8 May 1600 (referencing events of 4 March and 16 June prior)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis (Pitmuies)

Role (within the document): Named party / accomplice on the Ogilvy side in a violent feud (charged with invasion and related acts)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … and Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis, on the other side, to appear before the King and Council at Haliruidhous … to answer for the invasion of the Master of Ogilvy and his accomplices with unlawful weapons upon 4th March last, and for the slaughter of Laurence Burne and James Irnis, servants of the said Master and Sir Johnne Ogilvy…

Modern English rendering: Patrick Guthrie of Pitmuies, listed among the Ogilvy party (with Sir Johnne Ogilvy of Craig and many others), is charged to appear before the King and Council to answer for the armed invasion of the Master of Ogilvy’s group on 4 March, the slaughter of servants Laurence Burne and James Irnis, pursuit of the Lord of Spynie, slaughter of Patrick Rynd, and wounding of the Lord of Spynie. Both sides ordered to appear peacefully with only household men/servants (no large convocations) under pain of rebellion.

Historical Significance: Documents a major armed feud between branches of the Ogilvy family and allies (including Lindsay/Spynie connections), involving invasion, slaughter, and wounding. Reflects ongoing noble feuds in Angus around 1600 and the Privy Council’s role in enforcing peace and summoning parties under royal authority.

Genealogical Significance: Important reference to Patrick Guthrie of Pitmuies as an active participant/allied with Ogilvies of Craig in 1600. Directly supports the index entry (Pitmuies, 107, 163, etc.) and suggests close ties to Ogilvy network. Valuable for tracing lairdly status, land (Pitmuies), and possible kinship or alliance marriages in Forfarshire Guthrie lines.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Slaughter (homicide); invasion with unlawful weapons; pain of rebellion (horning); convocation of kin (unlawful large assemblies).
• Scottish Practices: Feud resolution via Council summons; restrictions on armed retinues; heritable designations (“of Pitmoweis”).

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 163

Date: 9 October 1600 (referencing events of 6 October 1600)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Laird of Guthreis (Guthrie); Patrick Guthrie of Pitmoweis (Pitmuies); place of Guthrie

Role (within the document): Laird of Guthreis (intervening/staying the armed party); Patrick as complainant/pursuer (laird); place reference as geographic landmark

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): They had chased him to the place of Guthrie; and “at the yairdis thairof ane of the said Maister Walteris servandis had ane bendit pistolet reddie to have dilascheit in the said complenar, wer not ane servand of the said Laird of Guthreis stayed him.” … Complaint by Patrik Guthrie of Pitmoweis against the same Mr. Walter Lindsay…

Modern English rendering: The armed party chased Johnne Barclay to the place of Guthrie, where one of Walter Lindsay’s servants nearly fired a pistol, but a servant of the Laird of Guthrie intervened to stop him. Separately, Patrick Guthrie of Pitmuies complained of Lindsay’s raid on his Langland lands, seizure of servants and horses. Council assoilzied Lindsay on both complaints.

Historical Significance: Captures local Forfarshire tensions over land/crops, with armed pursuits and interventions. The Laird of Guthrie’s servant’s role shows neighboring lairdly influence and quick local mediation attempts amid disputes.

Genealogical Significance: Direct reference to the Laird of Guthrie (likely Alexander of that Ilk, per index) as a figure of local authority whose household could intervene in nearby incidents. Strengthens ties to Patrick of Pitmuies (same timeframe/region) and maps the “place of Guthrie” estate’s importance for family networks in Angus.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Assoilzie (absolve); arrestment (seizure); intromit (meddle with property).
• Scottish Practices: Lairdly households maintaining order; complaints for violent oppression/spuilzie; Council adjudication of neighbor disputes.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 218

Date: 5 March 1601 (context of ongoing 1601 proceedings)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Patrik Guthrie (bailie)

Role (within the document): Bailie of the said city (St. Andrews) – one of the defenders/magistrates charged in the complaint

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … the provost and bailies of Sanct Androis … and Patrik Guthrie, bailies, Johne Murray, customer, of the said city, and Arthour Mylne, maker and outgiver of the said firlots, to appear and answer…

Modern English rendering: Complaint by various Fife landowners/tenants against the magistrates of St. Andrews (including Patrick Guthrie, bailie) for illegally augmenting the firlot measure, forcing higher payments on grain sales, contrary to parliamentary acts and prior decrees. The Council ordered the defenders to destroy non-standard measures within 15 days and issued horning letters against non-compliant magistrates.

Historical Significance: Illustrates enforcement of standardized weights/measures under James VI, resolving long-standing burgh abuses affecting rural producers. Reflects Privy Council oversight of economic regulations and burgh governance in Fife.

Genealogical Significance: Confirms Patrick Guthrie as bailie of St. Andrews in 1601 (index: pp. 218, 277, 721). Indicates civic prominence, likely in Fife/Angus networks; useful for distinguishing from lairdly Pitmuies entries and tracing professional/public roles.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Firlot (grain measure); horning (rebellion denunciation); customer (customs/tax official); outgiver of firlots (official measurer).
• Scottish Practices: Burgh magistrates regulating markets; parliamentary standards enforced via Council; collective liability of provost/bailies.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 277

Date: 7 August 1601 (proceedings on internal burgh sedition)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Patrik Guthrie (bailie)

Role (within the document): Bailie of St. Andrews (one of the pursuers/magistrates complaining against factional opponents)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … charge had been given to Williamie Leirmont, fiar of Darsy, provost, David Wilsoun, dean of gild, Mr. Williamie Coke and Patrik Guthrie, bailies of the said citie … on the one part, and to David Dalgleische [and others] … on the other part…

Modern English rendering: In a case of “grit commotioun, trouble, and intestine dissention” in St. Andrews, the magistrates (including Patrick Guthrie, bailie) charged faction leaders with sedition. After hearings, the Council convicted the defenders of fostering faction, contempt, and conventicles, ordering some to ward in Blackness Castle and others confined to their houses. Further trials for other participants were approved.

Historical Significance: Reveals internal political strife and factionalism within the burgh of St. Andrews. The Privy Council intervened to restore order, punishing sedition and upholding magisterial authority under royal oversight.

Genealogical Significance: Further documents Patrick Guthrie serving as bailie of St. Andrews in 1601 (consistent with pp. 218 and index). Indicates sustained civic involvement, potentially linking to professional or family networks in Fife; useful for differentiating from lairdly Guthries in Angus.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Ward (imprisonment); pain of rebellion (horning); conventicles (unauthorized gatherings); intestyne dissention (internal faction).
• Scottish Practices: Burgh council vs. commons disputes; Council enforcement of urban peace; collective magisterial complaints.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 288

Date: 22 September 1601

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of Crathymylne (Crathymiln)

Role (within the document): Defender / person at the horn (producing suspension of horning)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … Conform to the act of caution by James Betoun of Melgund, compears Alexander Guthrie of Crathymylne, and produces a letter of suspension of the horning executed against him by Alexander Gairdin, son of the late…

Modern English rendering: Alexander Guthrie of Crathymylne appeared (compeared) and produced a letter suspending the horning issued against him by Alexander Gairdin. Related entry notes Guthrie remaining at the horn for non-payment of violent profits from Mylnetoun lands, leading to committal to Edinburgh Castle ward at own expense until relaxation.

Historical Significance: Typical Privy Council handling of debt, land profits, and legal remedies (horning, suspension, caution). Reflects enforcement of obligations and royal justice mechanisms in property disputes around 1601.

Genealogical Significance: Clear reference to Alexander Guthrie of Crathymiln, matching index (pp. 288, 697). Confirms lairdly status and involvement in legal/financial matters; potential link to other Crathymiln or Angus lines for family reconstruction.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Horning (outlawry for debt); suspension (stay of execution); caution (security); violent profits (illegal gains/damages); relaxation (lifting of horning).
• Scottish Practices: Compearance before Council; use of letters of suspension; ward for non-compliance.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 365

Date: 6 April 1602 (context: Acts 1601–2)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie (chamberlain of Arbroath)

Role (within the document): Named as registered at the horn; appears in court with others in a continued case (defendant/compearing party)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … Mr. David Guthrie, chamberlain of Arbroath, and Alexander, Bishop of Brechin, though all registered at the horn in the sheriff-court books of Forfar, continue unrelaxed, repairing to all parts of the country and enjoying their lands… Mr. Alexander Inglis, Patrik Rossy, and Mr David Guthrie, appearing, their case is continued to 8th instant; but, the other defenders not appearing, the order is to denounce them rebels…

Modern English rendering: Mr. David Guthrie, chamberlain of Arbroath (along with the Bishop of Brechin and others), remained unrelaxed from the horn in Forfar sheriff court, yet continued to travel and enjoy their lands. Mr. David Guthrie and select others compeared; the case was continued to 8 April. Non-appearing defenders to be denounced rebels, with orders to the Sheriff of Forfar and magistrates of Montrose to apprehend them, inventory goods, etc.

Historical Significance: Demonstrates use of horning (outlawry for non-compliance) in sheriff courts, with Privy Council oversight for prominent figures. Highlights tensions between central authority, local justice, and landholders/officials in Angus around 1602.

Genealogical Significance: Solid confirmation of Mr. David Guthrie as chamberlain of Arbroath in 1602. Indicates official status and involvement in legal processes; useful for tracing administrative roles, possible kinship to other Angus Guthries, and land connections.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: At the horn (outlawed); unrelaxed (horn not lifted); denounce rebels (formal proclamation); inventory goods (seizure process).
• Scottish Practices: Sheriff court horning; compearance for continuation; enforcement against officials/landholders.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 366

Date: 6 April 1602 (continuation of prior proceedings)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Jedeone Guthrie in Forfar

Role (within the document): Named as registered at the horn (unrelaxed rebel); subject to warding order

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … Johne Piggot, spouse of Margaret Gibsoun, Jedeone Guthrie in Forfar, David Lindsay of Vayne and David Deuchar of that Ilk, being registered at the horn and having remained thereat unrelaxed, are to be charged to enter in ward in the burgh of Monrois by 9th instant at 12 hours at noon…

Modern English rendering: Jedione (or Jedeone) Guthrie in Forfar, along with others registered at the horn and unrelaxed, ordered charged to enter ward in the burgh of Montrose by 9 April at noon and remain until they relieve themselves and satisfy the Treasurer for their escheats (forfeitures). Magistrates to report entry or face further process.

Historical Significance: Part of broader enforcement actions against persons at the horn for debts, non-appearance, or offences. Illustrates Privy Council use of warding and local burghs (Montrose) for custody while pursuing escheats/revenue.

Genealogical Significance: Identifies Jedeone/Jedione Guthrie in Forfar (matches index: Jedion in Forfar, 366). Suggests residency/activities in Forfar (Angus); potential connection to local merchant, tenant, or cadet lines. Valuable for placing individuals in specific burgh contexts.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: At the horn (outlawry); unrelaxed (horn not lifted); escheats (forfeited goods); ward (imprisonment/custody).
• Scottish Practices: Charging horned persons to ward; treasurer involvement in forfeitures; burgh enforcement.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 409

Date: 1602 (specific proceedings under Acts 1601–2)

Guthrie(s) Identified: George Guthrie

Role (within the document): Accused/suspect (to be tried for slaughter of his spouse)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): His Majesty being resolved that George Guthrie shall be tried by assize for the slaughter of Katherine Broun, his spouse, of which he is suspected guilty, there is order to command the Sheriff of Forfar within six days after charge… to receive the said Guthrie from the magistrates of the city of Brechin and to enter him in the tolbooth of Edinburgh… The bailies of Brechin are to deliver the said Guthrie… and the bailies of Edinburgh are to receive the said Guthrie… and to commit him to ward…

Modern English rendering: King James VI ordered George Guthrie tried by assize for the suspected slaughter (murder) of his wife Katherine Broun. The Sheriff of Forfar to receive him from Brechin magistrates within six days and transfer to Edinburgh tolbooth for custody until trial. Brechin and Edinburgh officials directed to handle handover and warding.

Historical Significance: Rare domestic crime (spousal homicide) reaching royal/Privy Council level for trial arrangements. Shows centralized justice overriding local handling for serious cases in Angus, with coordinated transfers between burghs and Edinburgh.

Genealogical Significance: Identifies George Guthrie (likely in Forfar/Brechin area per context and index: George in Dundee, 409, 721, 747) in a grave criminal matter in 1602. Potential family implications (widower status, possible children); cross-reference with local kirk/session or criminal records for outcomes/kin.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Lords of Council.
• Legal Terms: Slaughter (homicide); assize (jury trial); tolbooth (prison); ward (custody).
• Scottish Practices: Royal direction of serious trials; inter-burgh prisoner transfers; sheriff/bailie enforcement.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 477

Date: 1602 (context: Acts 1602–3)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Gilbert Guthrie

Role (within the document): Recipient of payment (to whom Margaret Moncur paid sum for taxation relief)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … long before any charge to her for payment, she had bona fide paid the said sum to Gilbert Guthrie…

Modern English rendering: Margaret Moncur (relict of David Ros of Tullisnaucht) had already paid the £4 taxation sum in good faith to Gilbert Guthrie before any charge against her. She consigned further sums and found caution. The Lords suspended the letters of horning against her.

Historical Significance: Typical Privy Council review of horning (debt enforcement) cases, allowing suspension upon proof of prior payment. Reflects administration of taxation (here 200,000 merks levy) and protections for good-faith payers during James VI’s reign.

Genealogical Significance: Identifies Gilbert Guthrie as a recipient of funds in a 1602 taxation context (likely in Angus/Fife networks). May link to merchant, agent, or local official roles; useful for distinguishing from other Guthries and tracing financial/kin ties.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Lords of Council.
• Legal Terms: Bona fide (in good faith); letters of horning (outlawry process); suspension (stay); caution (security); escheat (forfeiture).
• Scottish Practices: Taxation relief processes; proof-based relief from horning; consignment of funds.

First Series, Volume 6 / Pages 502–505

Date: 1602 (referencing incidents 1598–1601)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Late Cristeane (Christian) Guthrie (spouse of complainer Walter Curroure of Inchedroure)

Role (within the document): Late spouse of the pursuer/complainer (mentioned in context of oppression and her death)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … the complainer and the late Cristeane Guthrie, his spouse, in liferent… the said late Cristeane Guthrie, the complainer’s spouse, “being than lyand bedfast, heavilie diseasit, and heir- ing sic uncouth oppressionis and barbarous proceedingis, quhairby scho of- tymes soundit almaist to the death.” … and before all the people quha wer then present protestit that the saidis personis oppressionis and barbarous proceedingis, commitit upoun hir and hir husband… wes the onlie caus of hir death, and, thus geving hir body and saull to the Lord, incontinent thairefter depairtit this lyff.

Modern English rendering: In a lengthy complaint of systematic oppression by John Gordon of Avachie and his kin/servants against Walter Curroure of Inchedroure and his lands/tenants in Banffshire, the late Christiane Guthrie (Walter’s spouse) is noted as suffering severe distress from the violence. She was bedfast and ill, “sounded almost to the death” from the barbarous acts, and her death was protested as directly caused by the oppression. Multiple armed raids, assaults, destruction, and harassment detailed across years 1598–1601.

Historical Significance: Major case of feudal feud/oppression in Banffshire/Aberdeenshire, with armed raids, destruction of property, and alleged causation of death. Privy Council handling long lists of incidents and ordering denunciation of non-appearing defenders.

Genealogical Significance: Records the death of Christiane (Cristeane) Guthrie, wife of Walter Curroure of Inchedroure (late by 1602). Ties her to Inchedroure/Netherdruill area; potential link to earlier “late Christian in Inchdrower” index entry (p. 502, 504). Valuable for spousal/land connections in northeast Scotland.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Liferent (widow’s life interest); oppression/spuilzie (wrongful taking); denunciation as rebels.
• Scottish Practices: Detailed complaints of feudal violence; use of servants in raids; protestations at deathbed for legal record.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 509

Date: 23 December 1602

Guthrie(s) Identified: Jeane (Jean) Guthrie (relict of Mr. James Wischart of Rynd)

Role (within the document): Pursuer/complainer (widow seeking justice for theft of goods)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Action by Jeane Guthrie, relict of Mr. James Wischart of Rynd, and James and Andro, his sons… when Johnne Stirling of Brexis… came at night and not only reft the third stook of the whole corns… but also entered violently into the first complainer’s dwelling house, reft the most part of her plenishing and goods…

Modern English rendering: Jean Guthrie, widow of Mr. James Wischart of Rynd (with her sons James and Andrew), complained that John Stirling of Brexis violently stole the third stook of corn (owed as rent) from lands set to tenant Alexander Fettes, plus entered her house and took most of her household goods/plenishing. Both parties appeared; matter remitted to Lords of Council and Session.

Historical Significance: Typical land/rent dispute with violent reiving (theft) elements. Shows widows actively pursuing legal remedies for estate rights and goods in Forfarshire, with Privy Council remitting to higher courts.

Genealogical Significance: Identifies Jeane Guthrie as widow of Mr. James Wischart of Rynd (with sons). Links to Rynd/Inverkeillour area (Forfarshire). Potential marriage and inheritance ties for Guthrie family; sons provide direct descendants.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Relict (widow); reft/reiving (theft/plunder); stook (sheaf/bundle of corn); plenishing (household goods); remitted (referred to another court).
• Scottish Practices: Widow’s legal actions for dower/rights; violent rent disputes; Council as initial forum.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 522

Date: 23 December 1602 (renewed action)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Patrik Guthrie (son of Robert Guthrie, sometime of Kinblathmont); Robert Guthrie (sometime of Kinblathmont)

Role (within the document): Named as chief culprits/accomplices in armed outrage (sacking of Kinblathmont)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … with statement now that about 100 persons… had been concerned in the outrage… Patrik Guthrie, son of Robert Guthrie, sometime of Kinblathmont…

Modern English rendering: Renewed complaint by Alexander, Lord of Spynie against the Master of Ogilvy and kin for blowing up gates of Kinblathmont with petard, sacking the house at night, and assaulting servants. Patrick Guthrie, son of Robert Guthrie (sometime of Kinblathmont), listed among chief culprits with ~100 armed men. Some defenders assoilzied due to lack of proof; others to be denounced rebels.

Historical Significance: Dramatic episode in Ogilvy-Spynie feud involving explosives (petard), large armed force, and house sacking. Privy Council managed high-profile noble disputes with detailed culprit lists and selective assoilzies/denunciations.

Genealogical Significance: Key references to Robert Guthrie (sometime of Kinblathmont) and son Patrick Guthrie. Directly supports index entries for Kinblathmont line (Robert, 522, 656, 864; Patrick in Kinblathmont, 522, 524). Confirms family involvement in regional feuds and land associations in Angus.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Petard (explosive device); assoilzie (acquit); denounce rebels (horning).
• Scottish Practices: Feud resolution via Council; large armed retinues in raids; proof requirements for convictions.

First Series, Volume 6 / Pages 523–525

Date: Early 1603 (follow-up to December 1602 action)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Patrik Guthrie

Role (within the document): Named rebel/accomplice (in Ogilvy-Spynie feud)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … denunceit rebellis and put to the horne for the quhilk… Patrik Guthrie…

Modern English rendering: After failed arbitration, the King ordered proclamation denouncing rebels including Patrick Guthrie (with Master of Ogilvy, Sir Johnne Ogilvy, etc.). Subjects forbidden to reset, supply, or intercommune with them under pain of death. Non-compliance to be punished without mercy.

Historical Significance: Climax of major noble feud: royal clemency failed, leading to full denunciation and ban on aiding rebels. Demonstrates limits of royal arbitration and harsh enforcement against noble violence in early 1603.

Genealogical Significance: Further confirms Patrick Guthrie’s involvement (with Kinblathmont/Baron Reid ties) in the feud. Highlights family alignment with Ogilvies; potential repercussions (forfeiture, exile risks) for the line.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI.
• Legal Terms: Resett/supplie/intercommoun (harbor/aid/associate); horne (outlawry); pain of deid (death penalty).
• Scottish Practices: Royal proclamations against rebels; feud pacification attempts followed by rigorous enforcement.

Notes: Continuation of p. 522 Kinblathmont sacking case. Patrick listed among key rebels. See also p. 522 for initial listing.

First Series, Volume 6 / Pages 587-589

Date: 22 September 1603 (context: presbytery/land teinds dispute)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk; Patrick Guthrie of Pitmuies

Role (within the document): Alexander as patron of college kirk of Guthrie and prebendary of Hiltoun/Langlandis; Patrick of Pitmuies as involved in teinds/tak dispute with Sir Walter Lindsay

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): The Laird of Guthrie and Sir Walter Lindsay… “Ane our Soverane Lordis letters reasit at the instance of Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, patrone of the college kirk of Guthrie… that quhair, Patrik Guthrie of Pitmewis haiveing some four yeiris syne… to the said Patrik Guthrie of Pitmowis…

Modern English rendering: Action involving the Laird of Guthrie (Alexander of that Ilk, patron of the college kirk of Guthrie) and Sir Walter Lindsay concerning teinds/prebendary of Hiltoun and Langlandis. Patrick Guthrie of Pitmuies had purchased a pretended tack of teinds and pursued legal actions against Sir Walter, leading to presbytery involvement and Council proceedings. Various commissions and protests noted.

Historical Significance: Illustrates post-Reformation church/land disputes over teinds (tithes) and patronage rights. Privy Council and presbytery (Arbroath) adjudicating between lairds and ministers, common in early 17th-century Angus.

Genealogical Significance: Strong references to Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk as patron and Patrick Guthrie of Pitmuies. Reinforces lairdly/ecclesiastical roles and Pitmuies line activity. Useful for church patronage and teind rights in Guthrie family history.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Lords of Council.
• Legal Terms: Patron (church advowson); teinds/tak (tithes/lease); presbytery; procuratory (power of attorney).
• Scottish Practices: Patronage of collegiate kirks; teind disputes resolved via Council/presbytery; heretable proprietars.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 622

Date: 10 September 1599 (band registration; context 1597–1600 slaughter case)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Registrar/notary of the band of caution/surety

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): The band, registered by Mr. David Guthrie, is subscribed at Fores…

Modern English rendering: In a slaughter case involving William Douglas, the band (surety obligation) registered by Mr. David Guthrie was subscribed at Fores on 10 September 1599 before witnesses, including Thomas Tulloch and Johnne Dumbar.

Historical Significance: Documents legal formalities in criminal (slaughter) cases, with notaries registering caution bands for appearance/justice. Reflects routine Privy Council/justice administration in northern Scotland (Fores area) around 1599.

Genealogical Significance: Shows Mr. David Guthrie acting in a professional legal/notarial capacity. Consistent with his advocate/procurator and chamberlain roles elsewhere; suggests education and wide activity in Angus/Moray networks.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Justice.
• Legal Terms: Band (surety obligation); registered (notarized); slaughter (homicide case).
• Scottish Practices: Caution for criminal appearance; notarial subscription of bands; local burgh registration.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 623

Date: 19 September 1599 (band registration; context of 17 September caution act)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Registrar/notary of the band of caution

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): —Mr. David Guthrie registering the band, subscribed at Forres, 19th September, before Patrik Dumbar of Conzie, Robert Tulloch of Tannacheis, Frances Forbes burgess in Forres, and Andro Dumbar in Mercassie, writer hereof.

Modern English rendering: Mr. David Guthrie registered the band of caution (surety) subscribed at Forres on 19 September 1599 before named witnesses. This relates to the prior act of caution (17 September) prohibiting resetting or intercommune with James Tulloch and others.

Historical Significance: Routine notarial registration of caution bands in criminal or feud-related cases. Highlights local legal processes in Forres (Moray) and Privy Council enforcement of sureties to maintain peace.

Genealogical Significance: Further evidence of Mr. David Guthrie’s professional notarial/advocate role. Consistent activity in registering legal instruments; strengthens profile as educated official with reach beyond Angus (Forres connections).

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Band of caution (surety obligation); reset/intercommune (harbor/associate); subscribed (signed/witnessed).
• Scottish Practices: Notarial registration of bonds; local subscription before witnesses; caution to prevent aiding rebels/fugitives.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 624

Date: 1 October 1599 (band registration; context of caution for non-appearance in slaughter case)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Registrar/notary of the band of caution

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Mr. David Guthrie registers the band subscribed at Tullemet, 1st October, before Edward Patoun, Johnne Porter, Robert Lekprivik, James Williamsoun,—Johnne Anisly, notary public, being the writer hereof.

Modern English rendering: Mr. David Guthrie registered the band of caution (surety) for William Stewart of Tullimat (on behalf of Andro, Lord Stewart of Uchiltree) subscribed at Tullemet on 1 October 1599 before named witnesses. This relates to non-appearance in a slaughter case involving Jonet Kennedy and others.

Historical Significance: Further example of notarial registration of caution bands to secure appearance in criminal matters. Shows Privy Council/justice system managing sureties across regions (Tullemet area).

Genealogical Significance: Additional confirmation of Mr. David Guthrie’s consistent role as legal registrar/notary in 1599. Reinforces professional profile alongside his chamberlain and advocate activities.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Band (surety); subscribed (witnessed/signed); notary public.
• Scottish Practices: Caution for criminal appearance; local subscription of instruments; notarial witnessing.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 625

Date: 4 October 1599 (multiple band registrations)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie (advocate)

Role (within the document): Registrar/notary/advocate registering bands of caution

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): The band, registered by Mr. David Guthrie, advocate, is subscribed at Logyinfraye, 4th October… —Guthrie registering the band, subscribed at Elrik, 4th October…

Modern English rendering: Mr. David Guthrie, advocate, registered several bands of caution (surety obligations) on 4 October 1599, including one at Logyinfraye for William Forbes of Logyinfray and another at Elrik. Various sureties for non-harm, fish protection, etc.

Historical Significance: Routine legal work recording caution bands to prevent harm or violations (e.g., salmon fishing restrictions). Highlights advocate/notary involvement in everyday peace-keeping and regulatory enforcement under James VI.

Genealogical Significance: Continued evidence of Mr. David Guthrie’s active professional life as advocate and band registrar in 1599. Demonstrates legal expertise and connections across regions (Logie, Elrik).

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Band of caution (surety); advocate (legal practitioner); subscribed (witnessed).
• Scottish Practices: Notarial registration by advocates; caution for specific prohibitions (e.g., fishing, harm).

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 642

Date: 1 April 1600 (Perth; caution bonds)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Patrik Guthrie of Hiltoun

Role (within the document): Surety (cautioner) for Johne Collace of Balnamore

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … by Johne Collace of Balnamore, as principal, and Patrik Guthrie of Hiltoun, as surety, 1000 merks…

Modern English rendering: Patrick Guthrie of Hiltoun acted as surety (cautioner) for Johne Collace of Balnamore in 1000 merks, among many other caution bonds registered that day to prevent harm or involvement in feuds.

Historical Significance: Part of widespread use of caution bonds to maintain peace and prevent feuds or harm. Privy Council systematically recording sureties in Perth, reflecting efforts to control local violence in 1600.

Genealogical Significance: Confirms Patrick Guthrie of Hiltoun in a surety role (index: of Hilton, Patrick, 642). Indicates landholding status and reliability as cautioner; useful for Hiltoun cadet line and social networks in Angus/Perthshire.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Principal/surety (in bond of caution); merks (currency).
• Scottish Practices: Caution bonds to bind behavior; group registration of multiple sureties.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 645

Date: 23 April 1600 (band registration; Edinburgh context)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Registrar/notary of the band of caution

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): —Mr. David Guthrie registering the band, written by Harbert Cunynghame, notary, and subscribed at Drumfreis, 23rd April…

Modern English rendering: Mr. David Guthrie registered the band of caution for Harbert M’Kye (and son) subscribed at Dumfries on 23 April 1600 before witnesses. This is one of several caution bonds recorded that day.

Historical Significance: Continued notarial work ensuring sureties for peace (non-harm obligations). Demonstrates administrative flow from local subscription (Dumfries) to central registration.

Genealogical Significance: Further attestation of Mr. David Guthrie’s ongoing advocate/notary activities in 1600. Consistent professional footprint across volumes.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Band of caution (surety).
• Scottish Practices: Notarial registration of local bonds; advocate involvement in legal instruments.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 654

Date: 26–27 June 1600 (Edinburgh/Balgruge; band registration)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie (advocate)

Role (within the document): Registrar/notary of the band of caution

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): —Mr. David Guthrie, advocate, registering the band, subscribed at Edinburgh and Balgruge, 26th and 27th June…

Modern English rendering: Mr. David Guthrie, advocate, registered the band of caution for Stevin Currour (on behalf of Walter Currour of Inchedrour and son) in £1000 + 1000 merks to prevent harm to various parties. Subscribed at Edinburgh and Balgruge before named witnesses.

Historical Significance: Standard caution bond registration to secure peace in potential disputes. Shows ongoing use of sureties and advocate involvement in legal safeguards.

Genealogical Significance: Reinforces Mr. David Guthrie’s professional role as advocate/notary in mid-1600. Consistent pattern of legal service across the volume.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Band of caution (surety).
• Scottish Practices: Advocate registration of bonds; multi-location subscription.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 656

Date: 7 July 1600 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Robert Guthrie of Kinblathmont; Gray Guthrie (surety context)

Role (within the document): Sureties/cautioners (for Gilbert Gray and others)

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … Robert Guthrie of Kinblathmont, and William Spalding at the mill of Kythik, as sureties for him, £1000… and Gray, Guthrie and Spalding, as sureties for him, £1000…

Modern English rendering: Robert Guthrie of Kinblathmont (with others) acted as surety for Gilbert Gray in £1000. Separately, Gray Guthrie (with others) served as surety in additional bonds related to harm prevention.

Historical Significance: Part of systematic caution bonds to prevent harm and maintain order. Kinblathmont Guthries participating in surety networks amid local disputes.

Genealogical Significance: Confirms Robert Guthrie of Kinblathmont in surety role (index match). Gray Guthrie likely another family member or associate. Highlights social/legal standing of the line in 1600.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Surety/cautioner (in bond).
• Scottish Practices: Multiple sureties in caution bonds for peace-keeping.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 663

Date: 20 July 1600 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Registrar/notary of the band of caution

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): —Mr. David Guthrie registering the band, subscribed at Edinburgh 20th July before William…

Modern English rendering: Mr. David Guthrie registered the band of caution for Stevin Currour (fiar of Logy, for Walter Currour of Inchedrour and son) in £1000 + 1000 merks to prevent harm to Alexander Ord and others. Subscribed at Edinburgh on 20 July 1600 before witnesses.

Historical Significance: Standard caution registration to bind parties against harm. Reflects Privy Council’s ongoing role in dispute prevention through sureties in 1600.

Genealogical Significance: Further instance of Mr. David Guthrie in professional advocate/notary capacity. Consistent across 1599–1600.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Band of caution (surety).
• Scottish Practices: Advocate registration of local bonds.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 665

Date: 1 October 1600 (band registration)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Registrar/notary of the band of caution

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): —Mr. David Guthrie registering the band, written by James Murray, notary public, and subscribed at Monymusk, 1st October…

Modern English rendering: Mr. David Guthrie registered the band of caution for James Gordon (fiar of Newtoun, for William Forbes of Monymusk) in 2000 merks to prevent harm to Mr. Johnne Cheyne and others. Subscribed at Monymusk on 1 October 1600 before witnesses.

Historical Significance: Ongoing use of caution bonds for peace-keeping in local disputes. Notarial registration ensures enforceability.

Genealogical Significance: Mr. David Guthrie continuing professional notarial work. Reinforces his role as reliable legal figure in 1600.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Band of caution (surety).
• Scottish Practices: Advocate/notary registration of bonds.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 666

Date: 6 October 1600 (Brechin)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum; Johnne Guthrie of the Miltoun of Tullus; Alexander Guthrie (at Craquhymylne); Alexander Guthrie (his son)

Role (within the document): Principal and surety in caution bond (non-harm obligation); harmed parties

Full Transcription: Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum for Johnne Guthrie of the Miltoun of Tullus, 1000 merks, not to harm Alexander Guthrie at Craquhymylne, or Alexander Guthrie, his son.

Modern English rendering: Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum stood principal for Johnne Guthrie of the Miltoun of Tullus in 1000 merks, obliging them not to harm Alexander Guthrie at Craquhymylne or Alexander Guthrie, his son.

Historical Significance: Caution bond to prevent harm within or involving Guthrie kindred in Angus. Typical Privy Council mechanism for local peace-keeping in 1600.

Genealogical Significance: Clear connections between Kincaldrum, Miltoun of Tullus, and Craquhymylne branches. Alexander of Kincaldrum as surety; potential father-son dynamic with the harmed Alexander. Supports cadet lineage hypotheses.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Caution (surety bond for non-harm).
• Scottish Practices: Heritable designations; kindred surety obligations.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 667

Date: 25 October 1600 (Edinburgh)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Parik (Patrick) Guthrie of Pitmewis; Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk

Role (within the document): Patrick as surety (cautioner); Alexander as protected party (not to be harmed)

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Johnne Barclay, apparent of Syde, for Mr. David Ogilvy, son in law of Parik Guthrie of Pitmewis, 2000 merks, not to harm Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk.

Modern English rendering: Johnne Barclay (apparent of Syde) stood caution for Mr. David Ogilvy (son-in-law of Patrick Guthrie of Pitmewis) in 2000 merks, obliging them not to harm Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk.

Historical Significance: Caution bond linking Ogilvy and Guthrie families through marriage (David Ogilvy as son-in-law of Patrick of Pitmewis). Prevents harm to head of that Ilk, reflecting alliance/protection dynamics in Angus nobility.

Genealogical Significance: Crucial: Patrick Guthrie of Pitmewis had a daughter who married Mr. David Ogilvy. Direct tie between Pitmewis Guthries and Ogilvies. Alexander of that Ilk protected, reinforcing main line status. Excellent marriage evidence.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Caution/surety (bond for non-harm); apparent (heir-apparent).
• Scottish Practices: Marriage alliances secured by caution; protection of lairds via bonds.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 672

Date: 15 December 1600

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie, elder of that Ilk; Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk

Role (within the document): Elder as surety for younger (and vice versa in related bond); caution for non-harm to Mr. David Ogilvy

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Alexander Guthrie, elder of that Ilk, for Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk, 2000 merks, not to harm Mr. David Ogilvy, son of James, Lord Ogilvy of Airlie… Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk, for Alexander Guthrie, elder of that Ilk, 2000 merks, not to harm Mr. David Ogilvy… subscribed at Guthrie…

Modern English rendering: Alexander Guthrie, elder of that Ilk stood caution for Alexander Guthrie, younger of that Ilk in 2000 merks not to harm Mr. David Ogilvy (son of Lord Ogilvy of Airlie). Reciprocal bond by the younger for the elder. Bonds subscribed at Guthrie.

Historical Significance: Mutual caution between head of that Ilk and his heir to protect Ogilvy alliance/relations. Shows family mechanisms for preventing internal or allied disputes.

Genealogical Significance: Direct father-son (elder/younger) confirmation for Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk. Strong evidence of succession and family solidarity. Subscription at Guthrie reinforces main seat.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Caution (surety bond for non-harm).
• Scottish Practices: Reciprocal elder/younger sureties; bonds subscribed at family seat.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 682

Date: 18 April 1601 (Elgyne; band registration)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie (advocate)

Role (within the document): Registrar/notary of the band of caution

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): —Mr. David Guthrie, advocate, registering the band, written by George Annaud, notary public in Elgyne, and subscribed there, 18th April…

Modern English rendering: Mr. David Guthrie, advocate, registered the band of caution for Thomas Innes (burgess of Elgyne, for Robert Keith) in 500 merks not to harm Issobell Swan or Johnne Man. Subscribed at Elgyne on 18 April 1601 before named witnesses.

Historical Significance: Standard caution registration to prevent harm in a local dispute. Demonstrates continued notarial work by advocates in regional centers like Elgin.

Genealogical Significance: Mr. David Guthrie maintaining professional advocate role into 1601. Consistent pattern across the volume.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Band of caution (surety).
• Scottish Practices: Advocate/notary registration of bonds; local subscription.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 691

Date: 21 July 1600 (context of caution bond)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Henry Guthrie in Glenboy; James Guthrie (son of the said Henry)

Role (within the document): Surety and witness/family member

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): … before Henry Guthrie in Glenboy, Archibald Beatoun, the surety’s son, Alexander Beatoun, also his son, and James Guthrie, son of the said Henry.

Modern English rendering: Band subscribed before Henry Guthrie in Glenboy and James Guthrie (son of Henry), among other witnesses, in a caution bond registered by Mr. Johnne Dauling, advocate.

Historical Significance: Witnessing/notarial element in a caution bond for non-harm. Shows local Guthries (Glenboy) participating in legal formalities in the region.

Genealogical Significance: Henry Guthrie in Glenboy with son James Guthrie. Provides direct father-son evidence and location tie (Glenboy). Useful for distinguishing branches.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Surety (in bond); witness.
• Scottish Practices: Local witnesses to legal instruments.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 697

Date: 15 September 1601 (Falkland)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie in Crathymylne

Role (within the document): Principal in caution bond (to appear before King and Council)

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): James Betoun of Melgund for Alexander Guthrie in Crathymylne, to appear before the King and Council at Dunfermeling on 22nd September instant and answer for his lying at the horn at the instance of Alexander Gairdin…

Modern English rendering: James Betoun of Melgund stood caution for Alexander Guthrie in Crathymylne (in 2280 merks + expenses) to appear before the King and Council at Dunfermline on 22 September 1601 regarding his being at the horn for non-removal from Mylnetoun of Tullois lands and non-payment of violent profits/teinds.

Historical Significance: Enforcement of horning (outlawry) via caution for appearance. Involves land profits dispute (Mylnetoun of Tullois), typical Privy Council handling of property conflicts.

Genealogical Significance: Alexander Guthrie in Crathymylne (matches earlier p. 288 entry and index). Confirms ongoing legal/financial troubles; useful for timeline of this branch.

Location: Crathymylne is in Angus (Forfarshire), Scotland. It is a mill/estate name associated with the parish of Kinnell or nearby areas in the Montrose/Arbroath district. It appears in historical records as a small landholding or mill property held by Guthries in the late 16th/early 17th century.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: At the horn (outlawry); violent profits (illegal gains); caution (surety for appearance).
• Scottish Practices: Caution for horned persons to appear; teind/land profit disputes.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 701

Date: 8 October 1601 (Westercraig)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Patrik Guthrie

Role (within the document): Servant/witness (to Sir Johnne Ogilbie) in band registration

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): The band, registered by Archibald Boyd, advocate, and written by James Sanderis, notary, is subscribed at Westercraig, 8th October, before Williamie Ogilbie, James Small, Patrik Guthrie, servitors to the said Sir Johnne, and the said writer hereof.

Modern English rendering: Patrick Guthrie (servitor to Sir Johnne Ogilbie) was a witness to the subscription of a caution bond (for David Ogilvy and spouse) at Westercraig on 8 October 1601.

Historical Significance: Routine witnessing of a caution bond. Shows Patrick Guthrie in service to the Ogilvy family, consistent with earlier feud alliances.

Genealogical Significance: Patrick Guthrie serving the Ogilvies (likely Pitmewis or related branch). Reinforces close ties between Guthries and Ogilvies through service and marriage (from prior entries).

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Servitor (servant/retainer); band of caution.
• Scottish Practices: Witnesses to legal instruments; lairdly service networks.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 704

Date: 24 October 1601 (Brechin)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Guthrie of Kincaldrum (Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum, per context)

Role (within the document): Surety/cautioner (for Alexander, Lord of Spynie)

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): David Lindsay of Vayne for Alexander, Lord of Spynie, Guthrie of Kincaldrum for Sir Johnne Lindsay of Wodheid and William Rynd of Kers…

Modern English rendering: Guthrie of Kincaldrum (with others) provided surety/caution for Sir Johnne Lindsay of Wodheid and William Rynd of Kers in 5000 merks each to appear before the King and Council at Dundee on 28 October 1601. They duly appeared.

Historical Significance: Caution for appearance in a high-profile matter involving Lord Spynie. Shows Kincaldrum Guthries participating in noble networks and legal obligations.

Genealogical Significance: Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum acting as surety. Reinforces his status and connections to Lindsay/Rynd families in Angus. Consistent with earlier Kincaldrum references.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Caution/surety (for appearance).
• Scottish Practices: Sureties for noble appearances; registration at burghs like Brechin.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 704 (continued)

Date: 24 October 1601 (Brechin)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Guthrie of Kincaldrum (Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum)

Role (within the document): Surety/cautioner for William Rynd of Kers and Johnne Rynd (his son)

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Guthrie of Kincaldrum for William Rynd of Kers, and Johnne Rynd, his son, 5000 merks, to subscribe such form of submission as shall be presented to them anent the feud between them, on the one part, and James, Master of Ogilvy, and Sir Johnne Ogilvy of Craig, on the other part.

Modern English rendering: Guthrie of Kincaldrum stood surety for William Rynd of Kers and his son Johnne in 5000 merks to subscribe a form of submission regarding the feud between the Rynds and James, Master of Ogilvy, and Sir Johnne Ogilvy of Craig.

Historical Significance: Part of ongoing efforts to settle the Spynie-Ogilvy feud through arbitration and submissions. Kincaldrum Guthries acting as intermediaries/sureties.

Genealogical Significance: Reinforces Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum’s role in regional noble networks. Strong tie to the Rynd family in this context.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Caution/surety; submission (arbitration agreement).
• Scottish Practices: Sureties for feud pacification.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 717

Date: 15 February 1602 (Perth)

Guthrie(s) Identified: William Guthrie

Role (within the document): Witness (and associated with the writer of the obligation)

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): The band, registered by Mr. Oliver Colt, advocate, is subscribed at Perth 15th February before Thomas Gaw, notary, burgess of Perth, George Barroun of Kynnard, Gilbert Straton, burgess of Perth, and William Guthrie,—Andro Rattray, writer in Perth, being the writer of the obligation.

Modern English rendering: William Guthrie was a witness to the subscription of a caution bond (for non-harm) at Perth on 15 February 1602. Andro Rattray was the writer of the obligation.

Historical Significance: Standard witnessing of a caution bond in Perth. Shows local individuals participating in legal peace-keeping processes.

Genealogical Significance: William Guthrie (likely in Perth or nearby) acting as witness. Helps place individuals in burgh contexts; potential merchant or burgess connection.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Band of caution (surety); witness; writer of obligation.
• Scottish Practices: Multiple witnesses to notarial acts in burghs.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 721

Date: 19 March 1602 (Edinburgh; context St. Andrews)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Patrik Guthrie (bailie)

Role (within the document): Bailie of St. Andrews (one of the defenders/complained against)

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Johnne Anstruther, vicar of Kilrynie, and burgess of Anstruther, for James Leirmounth of Dairsie, provost, Masters William Russell, William Weymis, Duncane Balfour, and Patrik Guthrie, bailies, and Johnne Myls, deacon of the baxters, for themselves and the rest of the community of the city of St. Androis…

Modern English rendering: Complaint against the magistrates of St. Andrews (including Patrick Guthrie, bailie) for not destroying non-standard measures and firlots, contrary to parliamentary acts. They were ordered to accept the standard firlot from Linlithgow.

Historical Significance: Part of burgh regulation of weights and measures (firlot standardization). Privy Council enforcing parliamentary acts on local officials.

Genealogical Significance: Patrick Guthrie as bailie of St. Andrews (consistent with earlier entries pp. 218, 277). Confirms civic role in Fife; useful for distinguishing from Angus lairdly Guthries.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Bailies (magistrates); firlot (grain measure).
• Scottish Practices: Enforcement of standard measures in burghs; collective responsibility of council.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 721 (additional entry)

Date: 25 March 1602 (Brechin)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Hary (Harry) Guthrie of Collestoun; Mr. David Guthrie (chamberlain of Arbroath); George Guthrie (brother of Mr. David)

Role (within the document): Sureties/cautioners for George Guthrie (to remain in Brechin for examination on alleged wife-murder)

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Hary Guthrie of Collestoun, and Mr. David Guthrie, chamberlain of George Guthrie, brother of the said Mr. David, 5000 merks, to remain in Brechin till he be examined as to the “allegeit murthour of his awin wyff, quhairof he is suspect guilty.”

Modern English rendering: Harry Guthrie of Collestoun and Mr. David Guthrie (chamberlain of Arbroath) stood caution in 5000 merks for George Guthrie (brother of Mr. David) to remain in Brechin until examined on suspicion of the murder of his own wife.

Historical Significance: Serious criminal caution for suspected spousal murder. Privy Council ensuring custody/examination of George Guthrie, with family members (including chamberlain brother) as sureties.

Genealogical Significance: Strong family cluster: Mr. David Guthrie (chamberlain of Arbroath) and brother George Guthrie (suspect); Harry Guthrie of Collestoun as co-surety. Confirms sibling relationship and Collestoun connection. High-value for Arbroath/Kincaldrum-area lines.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Caution (surety for custody/examination); murthour (murder).
• Scottish Practices: Family sureties in serious crime cases; examination before Council.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 723

Date: 8 April 1602 (Brechin)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk; Gabriell Guthrie in the mains of Guthrie

Role (within the document): Alexander as surety for Gabriell Guthrie (and Thomas Schilphird)

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk for Gabriell Guthrie in the mains of Guthrie and Thomas Schilphird in Hillside of Guthrie, 500 merks each, to the effect foresaid.

Modern English rendering: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk stood surety for Gabriell Guthrie in the mains of Guthrie (and Thomas Schilphird in Hillside of Guthrie) in 500 merks each for the purpose stated in the prior caution bonds (non-harm or compliance).

Historical Significance: Caution bond linking head of that Ilk with a tenant/kinsman on the mains of Guthrie. Reflects family/estate responsibility for behavior of dependents in 1602.

Genealogical Significance: Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk as surety for Gabriell Guthrie (in the mains of Guthrie). Direct main estate connection and likely cadet/tenant relationship. Strong evidence for family structure at the core Guthrie lands.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Caution/surety (500 merks).
• Scottish Practices: Lairdly sureties for tenants/kinsmen on family lands (“mains of Guthrie”).

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 728

Date: 17 May 1602

Guthrie(s) Identified: Johnne Guthrie (in context of Hiltoun of Guthrie); Kirk of Guthrie (place reference)

Role (within the document): Witness/subscriber context (Hiltoun of Guthrie lands); minister at Kirk of Guthrie (Mr. David Lindsay, son-in-law)

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Johnne Oliphant in Hiltoun of Guthrie for Johnne Wast in Wester Balgavyes, £100, not to harm Andro Edonie… The band… is subscribed at Hiltoun of Guthrie, 17th May, before Mr. David Lindsay, minister at the Kirk of Guthrie, son-in-law “to me the said Johnne Guthrie”…

Modern English rendering: Johnne Oliphant in Hiltoun of Guthrie stood caution for Johnne Wast. Bond subscribed at Hiltoun of Guthrie on 17 May 1602 before Mr. David Lindsay, minister at the Kirk of Guthrie (son-in-law to the said Johnne Guthrie).

Historical Significance: Local caution bond witnessed at Hiltoun of Guthrie, with the parish minister involved. Shows kirk and lairdly administration overlapping in everyday legal matters.

Genealogical Significance: Johnne Guthrie associated with Hiltoun of Guthrie; his son-in-law Mr. David Lindsay as minister at Kirk of Guthrie. Strong Hiltoun parish ties and clerical marriage link. Valuable for that Ilk cadet branch.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Caution (surety bond).
• Scottish Practices: Bonds subscribed at family lands; ministers as witnesses.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 729

Date: 29 May 1602 (Brechin)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie in Hiltoun

Role (within the document): Witness to subscription of caution band

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): The band, registered by Mr. George Wauchop, advocate, is subscribed at Brechin, 29th May, before Gilbert Auchterlony of Blakdykis, Alexander Guthrie in Hiltoun, Robert Straton in Deanestrayth, Johnne Symmer, younger of Brachinurche, Williamie Ramsay, clerk of Brechin…

Modern English rendering: Alexander Guthrie in Hiltoun witnessed the subscription of a caution bond (for Johnne West) at Brechin on 29 May 1602.

Historical Significance: Routine witnessing of a non-harm caution bond. Local Hiltoun Guthries participating in legal processes in Brechin.

Genealogical Significance: Alexander Guthrie in Hiltoun as witness. Reinforces presence in Hiltoun area; consistent with other Hiltoun references.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Witness to band of caution.
• Scottish Practices: Multiple local witnesses to notarial acts.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 747

Date: 14 September 1602 (Dundee context)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Henry Guthrie, burgess of Dundee; Mr. David Guthrie, chamberlain of Arbroath; George Guthrie (brother of the said Henry)

Role (within the document): Sureties/cautioners for George Guthrie (to answer charges regarding death of Agnes Broun)

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): James Ogilvy of Balfour, Henry Guthrie, burgess of Dundie, and Mr. David Guthrie, chamberlain of Arbroith, for George Guthrie, brother of the said Henry, now in ward in the tolbooth of Dundie, to answer when charged touching the death of Agnes Broun, his spouse, under the pain of 1000 merks.

Modern English rendering: James Ogilvy of Balfour, Henry Guthrie (burgess of Dundee), and Mr. David Guthrie (chamberlain of Arbroath) stood caution in 1000 merks for George Guthrie (brother of Henry), currently warded in Dundee tolbooth, to answer charges concerning the death of his spouse Agnes Broun.

Historical Significance: Serious caution for suspected spousal death/murder, with family and Ogilvy sureties. Privy Council managing custody and examination in Dundee.

Genealogical Significance: Henry Guthrie (burgess of Dundee) and brother George Guthrie (warded suspect); Mr. David Guthrie (chamberlain of Arbroath) as co-surety. Strong sibling ties and Arbroath/Dundee connections. Matches earlier murder-related entries.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Ward (custody); tolbooth (prison); caution (surety for appearance).
• Scottish Practices: Family sureties in homicide cases; burgh warding.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 758

Date: 11 October 1602 (St. Andrews)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie (advocate)

Role (within the document): Registrar/notary of the band of caution

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): The band, registered by Mr. David Guthrie, advocate, is subscribed at St. Androis, 11th October…

Modern English rendering: Mr. David Guthrie, advocate, registered the band of caution for Robert Wod (apparent of Grenesyd, for Alexander Wod of Lamlethame) in £1000 not to harm James Leitch. Subscribed at St. Andrews on 11 October 1602 before witnesses.

Historical Significance: Standard caution registration in St. Andrews for non-harm. Shows Mr. David Guthrie continuing legal work in Fife.

Genealogical Significance: Mr. David Guthrie in advocate capacity. Consistent professional role.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Band of caution (surety).
• Scottish Practices: Advocate registration of bonds in burghs.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 759

Date: 11 October 1602 (Elgyne)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr. David Guthrie (advocate)

Role (within the document): Registrar/notary of the band of caution

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): The band, registered by Mr. David Guthrie, advocate, is subscribed at Elgyne, 11th October…

Modern English rendering: Mr. David Guthrie, advocate, registered the band of caution for Alexander Dumbar of Tarbert (for Alexander Dumbar of Westfield) in 4000 merks not to harm Johnne Innes or Alexander Innes. Subscribed at Elgin on 11 October 1602 before witnesses.

Historical Significance: Caution bond for non-harm registered in Elgin. Typical legal safeguard in regional disputes.

Genealogical Significance: Mr. David Guthrie continuing his advocate/notary duties in 1602. Consistent professional footprint.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Band of caution (surety).
• Scottish Practices: Advocate registration of bonds in burghs like Elgin.

First Series, Volume 6 / Page 766

Date: 9 November 1602 (Maybole)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Guthrie in Maybole

Role (within the document): Surety/cautioner (with others for Thomas Kennedy of Synnones)

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Hew Kennedy of Garyhorne for Thomas Kennedy of Synnones, Johnne Guthrie in Maybole, Andro Cochrane there, Hew Betoun there, James Baird, flesher there, and Andro Home in Ladyburne, 300 merks, to the effect foresaid.

Modern English rendering: Johnne Guthrie in Maybole (with Hew Kennedy of Garyhorne and others) stood surety in 300 merks each for Thomas Kennedy of Synnones (for the purpose of the prior caution).

Historical Significance: Local caution bond in Maybole (Ayrshire) for non-harm or compliance. Shows Guthrie presence outside Angus in southwest Scotland.

Genealogical Significance: Johnne Guthrie in Maybole as surety. Indicates branch or migration to Ayrshire; useful for broader Guthrie distribution.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: King James VI / Privy Council.
• Legal Terms: Caution/surety (300 merks).
• Scottish Practices: Group sureties in burghs like Maybole.

First Series: Volume 7
(1604-1607)

First Series, Volume VII / Page 21

Date: February 1605 (collectively entered in Minute Book; no specific day prefixed)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie (complaint/rebellion against)

Role (within the document): Defendant/subject of a “Rebellione” complaint by William Lyon.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Rebellione: William Lyon against Alexander Guthrie.

Modern English Rendering: Rebellion [complaint]: William Lyon against Alexander Guthrie.

Historical Significance: This entry appears amid a series of collective February 1605 Minute Book items recording bonds of caution (surety), lawburrows (peace bonds), rebellions (non-appearance or defiance leading to horning/outlawry), oppressions, and other disputes. It reflects the Privy Council’s role in managing local feuds, ensuring compliance with royal authority, and addressing failures to appear or obey summons in early 17th-century Scotland. Such complaints often escalated to horning (outlawry) if ignored.

Genealogical Significance: Direct reference to an Alexander Guthrie involved in a local dispute/complaint in 1605. This aligns with the index entry (“Alexander, complaint against, 21”) and may connect to Aberdeenshire/Angus Guthries (e.g., near Alford or other indexed locations). Useful for distinguishing individuals among multiple Alexanders (e.g., of Kincaldrum or that Ilk). Cross-reference with nearby pages and family groups (GFG clusters) for potential lineage ties.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Rebellione (formal complaint of rebellion/defiance, often leading to denunciation as rebel and horning); lawburrows (surety for keeping the peace).
• Scottish Practices: Collective minute book entries for efficiency; use of cautioners/sureties; process of horning for non-compliance; Privy Council as central arbiter for gentry disputes.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 38

Date: 1605 (contextual; aligns with February/March entries in sequence)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr Gilbert Guthrie, younger

Role (within the document): Creditor / recipient of debt payment (Mr Gilbert Guthrie, younger, to whom payment was due from George Douglas of Mordingtoun).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): George Dowglas of Mordingtoun ordained to be apprehended by the Captane of the Guard, being denuncit rebell at the instance of Alexander Fairlie of Braid, for not payment of a debt [to] Mr Gilbert Guthrie, younger.

Modern English Rendering: George Douglas of Mordingtoun [is] ordained to be apprehended by the Captain of the Guard, having been denounced as a rebel at the instance of Alexander Fairlie of Braid, for non-payment of a debt [to] Mr Gilbert Guthrie, younger.

Historical Significance: This entry illustrates the Privy Council’s enforcement of civil debts through legal mechanisms like horning (denunciation as rebel) and orders for apprehension by the Captain of the Guard. It highlights tensions between debtors and creditors among the Scottish gentry/landed classes in 1605, with royal officers intervening to uphold obligations. Such cases were common for maintaining social and economic order under James VI.

Genealogical Significance: Confirms Mr Gilbert Guthrie, younger (indexed at p. 38), as an active creditor/lender in 1605, likely tied to professional or local networks (possibly legal/church-related given “Mr” title). This distinguishes him from other Gilberts (e.g., messenger at p. 575 or complainant at p. 40) and supports connections in Aberdeenshire/Angus circles. Valuable for tracing younger sons or cadet lines alongside entries for Mr David, Alexander, etc.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Denuncit rebell (denounced as rebel via horning for debt default); ordained to be apprehended (warrant for arrest by Captain of the Guard).
• Scottish Practices: Use of horning for civil debt enforcement; Privy Council oversight of gentry obligations; “instance of” indicating the pursuer initiating action.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 40

Date: April 1605

Guthrie(s) Identified: Gilbert Guthrie

Role (within the document): Pursuer/complainant in a “Rebellione” action against Johne Fraser.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Rebellione: Gilbert Guthrie against Johne Fraser.

Modern English Rendering: Rebellion [complaint]: Gilbert Guthrie against John Fraser.

Historical Significance: Part of a long list of April 1605 Minute Book entries covering bonds of lawburrows (peace sureties), cautionary obligations, rebellions (defiance/non-appearance), protests, and other disputes. The Privy Council routinely handled such cases to enforce order among the lairds and gentry, often escalating to horning or royal intervention. This reflects ongoing local tensions in 1605 Scotland.

Genealogical Significance: Documents Gilbert Guthrie as actively pursuing a legal complaint in April 1605, consistent with index references (e.g., complaint by Gilbert at p. 40; Mr Gilbert, younger at p. 38). Likely the same or closely related individual; helps map family activities alongside Mr David (chamberlain), Alexander, and landed Guthries (Kincaldrum, etc.). Valuable for distinguishing branches in Aberdeenshire/Angus networks.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Rebellione (complaint of rebellion/defiance); Band of lawburrows (surety for keeping the peace).
• Scottish Practices: Collective recording of multiple actions in Minute Book; use of formal complaints to trigger council enforcement; common among gentry for resolving feuds or obligations.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 61

Date: June 1605 (incident ~17 June 1605; council proceedings same/next day and follow-up)

Guthrie(s) Identified: William Guthrie (servitour to Pittarro; slain); reference to Pittarro elder/younger context.

Role (within the document): Victim (slain in street combat/tulzie); servitor/retainer to the young Laird of Pittarro.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): …the Lords, having respect to the slaughter of William Guthrie, servitour to Pittarro, had comanded him to wairde… the said Guthrie to have ressaved na wounds, bot to have bene smored in the thrang… Footnote/reference: …ane very pretty young man, named William Guthrie, was slain.

Modern English Rendering: …the Lords, having respect to the slaughter of William Guthrie, servitor to Pittarro, had commanded him to ward [imprisonment]… the said Guthrie [was understood] to have received no wounds, but to have been smothered in the throng [crowd/press of the fight]… Footnote: …a very pretty young man, named William Guthrie, was slain.

Historical Significance: This records a notable street fight (“tulzie”) in Edinburgh (Salt Tron, ~9-11 PM, 17 June 1605) between factions led by the young Lairds of Edzell (Lindsays) and Pittarro (Wisharts), involving numerous gentry, servants, and retainers. The Privy Council responded with imprisonments (e.g., Blackness, Dumbarton), wardings, and inquiries (surgeons examining wounds/body). It highlights feuding culture, royal efforts to curb violence, and council intervention in high-profile incidents under James VI. The footnote notes contemporary stir and the King’s strictness on feuds.

Genealogical Significance: Important record of William Guthrie (indexed: in Pittarro, 61, 576, 578; slain 61 n., 81, 145), a young retainer (“servitour/pretty young man”) killed in service. Ties directly to Pittarro (Angus) connections. Cross-references with other Volume VII Guthries (e.g., William cautioner) and broader family research (Kincaldrum, etc.) may clarify if he belongs to a cadet line. Details on the brawl provide social context for Guthrie service networks.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Wairde (ward/imprisonment); tulzie (brawl/fight); slaughter (homicide in affray); chirugeons (surgeons) for wound reports.
• Scottish Practices: Council oversight of feuds/tulzies with collective punishment of participants/families; use of wardings and medical inquiries; note of “strange and extraordinary” handling.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 81

Date: 16 July 1605 (sederunt); follow-up to June 1605 tulzie

Guthrie(s) Identified: Guthrie (victim of slaughter; contextually William Guthrie, servitor to Pittarro)

Role (within the document): Victim in criminal proceedings (slaughter case raised by Pittarro against Edzell).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Sir John Wischart of Pittarro having raised criminall letters against Sir David Lindsay of Edzell for slaughter of Guthrie, and Edzell being wardit thairfor in Dumbarton Castell, he is ordered to be brocht fra thence to Edinburgh in order to his tryall.

Modern English Rendering: Sir John Wishart of Pittarro having raised criminal letters against Sir David Lindsay of Edzell for the slaughter of Guthrie, and Edzell being warded therefore in Dumbarton Castle, he is ordered to be brought from thence to Edinburgh in order to his trial.

Historical Significance: Direct follow-up to the June 1605 Edinburgh street fight (pp. 61+). Pittarro (Wishart) initiates formal criminal action against Edzell (Lindsay) for the killing. The Council manages high-level feud consequences by transferring the accused for trial, reflecting efforts to impose royal justice over private vengeance amid gentry violence. Sederunt lists key officers (Chancellor, Angus, etc.).

Genealogical Significance: Reinforces the death of the young William Guthrie (Pittarro’s servitor) as a pivotal event linking Guthrie service to prominent Angus families (Pittarro/Wishart, Edzell/Lindsay). Supports index entries for William (slain) and Pittarro connections. Useful for reconstructing retainer/client networks and potential family ties in Forfarshire/Angus during this turbulent period.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI (via Privy Council).
• Legal Terms: Criminall letters (formal criminal summons/indictment); wardit (imprisoned in ward); tryall (trial).
• Scottish Practices: Use of criminal letters for homicide; Council oversight of noble feuds with imprisonment and transfer for justice; sederunts recording attendance.

Notes: Part of the same “tulzie” case cluster (pp. 61, 81, 145+). Confirms escalation from brawl to formal prosecution. Cross-reference with other William Guthrie mentions (e.g., Pittarro at 576–578) and index for full context.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 117

Date: 1605 (post-June events; caution bonds related to ward/release)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum

Role (within the document): Cautioner (surety/guarantor) for Sir John Wishart of Pittarro (and his eldest son).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum, George Affleck of Balmain, and James Maitland of Lethingtoun are cautioners that Sir John Wisehart of Pittarro, and John, his eldest son and apparent air, sall not invade the said Sir David Lindsay…

Modern English Rendering: Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum, George Affleck of Balmain, and James Maitland of Lethington are cautioners that Sir John Wishart of Pittarro, and John, his eldest son and apparent heir, shall not invade the said Sir David Lindsay… (with conditions on ward, submission, and penalties).

Historical Significance: This resolves aspects of the June 1605 Edzell-Pittarro tulzie (in which William Guthrie was slain). Mutual caution bonds and ward conditions (Montrose/Dundee areas, Blackness/Dumbarton) enforce peace between the parties. The Privy Council mandates submissions and penalties (20,000 lib.) to prevent further invasion/feuding, illustrating royal mediation in noble disputes.

Genealogical Significance: Key reference to Alexander Guthrie of Kincaldrum (matches index p. 117), acting as surety in a high-profile Angus feud. Strengthens ties between Kincaldrum Guthries and major families (Wishart of Pittarro, Lindsay of Edzell). Supports cadet lineage research, land holdings, and social networks in Forfarshire/Angus. Cross-reference with other Alexander mentions and RMS charters.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Cautioners (sureties for good behaviour); apparent air (heir apparent); invade (assault/attack); wairde (ward); submission (formal agreement).
• Scottish Practices: Mutual bonds to keep peace post-tulzie; Council-enforced warding and geographic restrictions; heavy financial penalties for breach.

Notes: Directly links to the William Guthrie slaying case (pp. 61/81). Excellent for Kincaldrum family profiles. Index confirms this entry.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 145

Date: 1605 (follow-up to June 1605 incident; denunciation for slaughter)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Guthrie (servant to the Laird of Pittarro; contextually William Guthrie slain)

Role (within the document): Victim of “shamefull slaughter” (homicide in the tulzie).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): …quho were denuncit for the shamefull slaughter of &c. Guthrie, servant to the Laird of Pittarro, committit be thaim within the burgh of Edinburgh the, &c., day of, &c., last.

Modern English Rendering: …who were denounced for the shameful slaughter of &c. Guthrie, servant to the Laird of Pittarro, committed by them within the burgh of Edinburgh the, &c., day of, &c., last.

Historical Significance: Continuation of the Edzell-Pittarro feud documentation. Multiple parties (Lindsays and associates) are denounced (horning/outlawry process) for the killing of Guthrie’s servant in Edinburgh. Reinforces Privy Council pursuit of justice for the June street combat, with formal proclamations and Skene Abridgment parallels. Highlights consequences of gentry violence.

Genealogical Significance: Further evidence of William Guthrie (Pittarro servitor) as the victim. Strengthens connections between Guthries and Pittarro/Wishart in Angus. Complements pp. 61/81/117 entries and index references to William (slain). Aids in tracing service roles and feud impacts on local families.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Denuncit (denounced/horned for crime); shamefull slaughter (homicide); servand/servitor (retainer).
• Scottish Practices: Denunciation process for serious crimes; Council records of feuds with abridgments for reference.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 255 (and 257 context)

Date: 1606 (referencing Dec. 1605 horning; proceedings in 1606)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Henry Guthrie of Collis-ton (Colliston)

Role (within the document): Defender/debtor (subject of horning for unpaid debt; decree against him and co-defendant).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Complaint by Johne Hammiltoun in Nes that Henry Guthrie of Collis-ton and George Baroun of Kynnaird remain unrelaxed from the horning executed against them on 12th and 16th December 1605 for not paying him £3760 as principal and £100 for expenses.

Modern English Rendering: Complaint by John Hamilton in Nes that Henry Guthrie of Colliston and George Baron of Kinnaird remain unrelaxed from the horning executed against them on 12th and 16th December 1605 for not paying him £3760 principal and £100 expenses.—Complainant appearing by Sinclair, his procurator, there is decree as in last Act against the defenders for non-appearance.

Historical Significance: Typical Privy Council debt enforcement case. Horning (outlawry) was issued in late 1605 for non-payment; 1606 complaint seeks further action (apprehension, goods seizure) as defenders remain “unrelaxed.” Highlights economic disputes among lairds and use of council for civil recovery.

Genealogical Significance: Confirms Henry Guthrie of Colliston (index p. 255, 405), active in 1605–1606 financial/legal matters. Ties to Colliston research (Angus/Forfarshire cadet lines). Complements other landed Guthries (Kincaldrum, etc.) and supports inheritance/landed status tracking.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Horning (denunciation as rebel for debt); unrelaxed (not discharged from horning); decree; procurator (agent).
• Scottish Practices: Debt recovery via horning and council complaints; inventory/seizure of goods for non-compliance.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 301

Date: 1607 (referencing General Assembly at Linlithgow, Dec. 1606; council charge)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr Alexander Guthrie, moderator for the presbytery of Aufurde (Alford)

Role (within the document): Nominate/constant moderator of the presbytery of Alford (Aufurde).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): …Mr Alexander Guthrie, moderator for the presbiterie of Aufurde…

Modern English Rendering: …Mr Alexander Guthrie, moderator for the presbytery of Alford… (appointed as one of the constant moderators for presbyteries per General Assembly and royal approval).

Historical Significance: Part of a major 1607 council act enforcing the Linlithgow Assembly’s decision for “constant moderators” in each presbytery to combat popery/recusants and ensure kirk uniformity. Lists moderators across Scotland; reflects James VI’s efforts to control the kirk through appointed officials rather than rotating ones. Charge to presbyteries to accept them under pain of rebellion.

Genealogical Significance: Important ecclesiastical role for Mr Alexander Guthrie (index p. 301), likely a minister, in Alford presbytery (Aberdeenshire). Ties to broader Guthrie church involvement in northeast Scotland. Distinguishes from other Alexanders (Kincaldrum, etc.) and supports clerical family branches.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Constant moderator (permanent presbytery moderator); charge (official directive); pain of rebellion (penalty).
• Scottish Practices: Royal endorsement of kirk assembly acts; list of presbytery officials for enforcement against recusants/papists.

Notes: Matches index entry. Full act spans pp. 301–302 with extensive list. Valuable for church/genealogy context in Angus/Aberdeenshire.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 326

Date: 1606–1607

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Likely in a supporting or brief mention (chamberlain context from index; exact entry abbreviated in source).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): [Entry references Mr David Guthrie in context of proceedings; full details align with index p. 326 for chamberlain-related or local matter.]

Modern English Rendering: [Modern rendering of the specific Mr David Guthrie reference on this page.]

Historical Significance: Continues administrative/judicial records typical of the volume, potentially tied to Arbroath chamberlain duties or local disputes.

Genealogical Significance: Further attestation of Mr David Guthrie (chamberlain of Arbroath, indexed pp. 32, 404–5, 606; also p. 326). Reinforces professional/ecclesiastical or estate management role in Angus.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: [Relevant terms from entry, e.g., chamberlain duties or complaint].
• Scottish Practices: Council handling of estate/official matters.

Notes: Index confirms presence. Upload clearer/fuller screenshot if needed for detailed transcription.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 306

Date: 20 January 1607, Edinburgh

Guthrie(s) Identified: Walter Guthrie in Edmestoun (Edmeston)

Role (within the document): Defender/accused attacker (part of group assaulting complainant and his spouse; absolved).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Complaint by Robert Boyle in Gilmertoun… Waltir Guthrie in Edmestoun, seized his said spouse [Robert Boyle’s wife] by the hair of her head, and “slang hir undir thair feit and strampit hir in gutteris” [flung her under their feet and trampled her in the gutters]; then took the complainer himself by his beard… and, finally, pursued him for his life with batons and long staves, wounded him, and left him for dead.—Both parties appearing, the Lords assoilzie the defenders…

Modern English Rendering: Complaint by Robert Boyle in Gilmerton… Walter Guthrie in Edmeston [and others] seized his [Boyle’s] said spouse by the hair of her head, and “flung her under their feet and trampled her in the gutters”; then took the complainer himself by his beard… pursued him for his life with batons and long staves, wounded him, and left him for dead.—Both parties appearing, the Lords absolve the defenders…

Historical Significance: Robert Boyle complains of a violent group assault (triggered by debt demand) on himself and his wife. Walter Guthrie is named among the attackers. Case dismissed 20 Jan 1607 after oaths. Typical Privy Council handling of local affrays.

Genealogical Significance: Walter Guthrie in Edmestoun acts as one of the assailants (with William Archibald et al.) against Robert Boyle and spouse. Clarifies his role as defender/accused (not victim). Adds social context for Guthries in/near Edinburgh area ~1607.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Assoilzie (acquit); complaint of assault.
• Scottish Practices: Oath-based resolution of disputes; graphic descriptions of violence in records.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 326

Date: 1607 (referencing 28 August 1606 horning)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr David Guthrie

Role (within the document): Defender/debtor (subject of horning for unpaid debt; decree for non-appearance).

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Complaint by George Foullertoun of Dynnune that Mr David Guthrie remains unrelaxed from a horning of 28th August last for not paying him 518 merks and £25 as expenses.—Complainant appearing by , his procurator, decree as above against defender for non-appearance.

Modern English Rendering: Complaint by George Fullerton of Dunnune that Mr David Guthrie remains unrelaxed from a horning of 28th August last for not paying him 518 merks and £25 expenses.—Complainant appearing by his procurator, decree as above against defender for non-appearance.

Historical Significance: Debt enforcement via horning (outlawry). Follows earlier chamberlain references; council grants decree for non-appearance. Common mechanism for recovering sums in early 17th-century Scotland.

Genealogical Significance: Reinforces Mr David Guthrie (chamberlain of Arbroath) in financial/legal matters 1606–1607. Consistent with index (pp. 32, 404–5, 606, 326). Indicates ongoing obligations and status in Angus networks.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Horning (unrelaxed); merks (currency); procurator; decree for non-appearance.
• Scottish Practices: Council adjudication of debts; horning process.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 327

Date: 1607 (referencing 19 July 1606 horning)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Robert Guthrie

Role (within the document): Procurator (legal representative/agent) for complainants John Rait and Mr David Rait.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): Complainers appearing by Robert Guthrie, decree as above against defenders for non-compearance.

Modern English Rendering: Complainers appearing by Robert Guthrie, decree as above against defenders for non-appearance.

Historical Significance: Debt/contract enforcement case involving mill lands at Crayage/Snawtoun. Robert Guthrie acts as procurator; council issues decree for non-appearance. Standard Privy Council civil procedure.

Genealogical Significance: Robert Guthrie serving as legal procurator (indexed p. 327). Indicates legal/professional involvement. Useful for distinguishing from other Roberts and mapping Guthrie networks in 1607.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Horning (unrelaxed); procurator; non-compearance; decree.
• Scottish Practices: Use of agents in council complaints; enforcement of contracts/mills (multures, sucken, knaveschip).

First Series, Volume VII / Page 369

Date: 1607

Guthrie(s) Identified: William Guthrie

Role (within the document): Cautioner (surety) for Henry Futhie in contract/probation matter.

Summary Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion only): …and William Guthrie, his cautioner, on the other, had obtained letters charging complainer to answer for his rebellion…

Modern English Rendering: …and William Guthrie, his cautioner, on the other [part], had obtained letters charging complainer to answer for his rebellion…

Historical Significance: Complaint by Henry Futhie regarding horning, contract with Montrose town council, and detention. William Guthrie acts as surety. Council orders presentation before them. Reflects complex debt/contract enforcement involving merchants and cautioners.

Genealogical Significance: William Guthrie serving as cautioner (indexed p. 369). Indicates financial/social standing and connections (with Futhie/Napier). Complements other William entries (Pittarro, slain, etc.).

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Cautioner; horning; suspension; rebellion; letters charging.
• Scottish Practices: Use of sureties in contracts; council intervention in detentions.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 404

Date: 1607

Guthrie(s) Identified: John Guthrie in the Mill of [location]

Role (within the document): Defender (subject of decree for non-fulfilment of a band).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused entry, beginning with Complaint by Mr Robert Broun context where relevant, but primary entry): Complaint by Mr Robert Broun of Pitkeney that Johne Guthrie in the Mill of [ ] remains unrelaxed from a horning of 15th January 1606 for not fulfilling to him a band dated 11th March 1603, and in particular for not “staking the coirnes” in the barnyard of Johne Hunter, as place appointed thereto, and for not paying the complainer £10 as expenses for registration of the band, and £5 for the charge thereupon.—Complainant appearing by Archibald Dowglas, macer, decree as above against defender for non-compearance.

Modern English Rendering: Complaint by Mr Robert Brown of Pitkeney that John Guthrie in the Mill of [location] remains unrelaxed from a horning of 15th January 1606 for not fulfilling to him a bond dated 11th March 1603, and in particular for not “staking the corns” in the barnyard of John Hunter, as place appointed thereto, and for not paying the complainer £10 as expenses for registration of the band, and £5 for the charge thereupon.—Complainant appearing by Archibald Douglas, macer, decree as above against defender for non-appearance.

Historical Significance: Enforcement of a 1603 bond related to agricultural obligations (“staking the corns”). Horning from 1606 leads to 1607 decree. Illustrates council role in contractual disputes involving mills and produce.

Genealogical Significance: John Guthrie in the Mill of [location] involved in specific land/agricultural contract. Complements John of Lownane entry on same page spread.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Horning (unrelaxed); band (bond); macer (court officer); decree for non-compearance.
• Scottish Practices: Detailed agricultural clauses in bonds; registration expenses; council decrees.

First Series, Volume VII / Pages 404–405

Date: 1607

Guthrie(s) Identified:

• John Guthrie of Lownane (Lunan)
• Mr David Guthrie
• Henry Guthrie of Colliston

Role (within the document):

• John of Lownane: Complainant (against Mr David Guthrie)
• Mr David Guthrie: Defender/debtor (in both entries)
• Henry of Colliston: Defender/debtor (with Mr David)

Full Transcription (key Guthrie entries): Complaint by Johne Guthrie of Lownane that Mr David Guthrie [details of horning/debt]… …chamberlain of Abirbrothok, and Henry Guthrie of Collistoun, remain unrelaxed from a horning of 3rd January last for not paying him, as assignee to Mr Alexander Keith of Over Dysert, 1000 merks as principal, with 300 merks for registering their obligation, and £10 for the charge against them.—Complainant appearing by , his procurator, decree as above against defenders.

Modern English Rendering: Complaint by John Guthrie of Lunan that Mr David Guthrie [remains under horning for debt obligations]… …and Henry Guthrie of Colliston remain unrelaxed from a horning of 3rd January last for not paying him, as assignee to Mr Alexander Keith of Over Dysart, 1000 merks principal, with 300 merks for registering their obligation, and £10 for the charge against them.—Complainant appearing by his procurator, decree as above against defenders.

Historical Significance: Debt recovery and horning enforcement involving assignees and chamberlain duties (Arbroath). Council issues decrees for non-compliance. Typical administrative/judicial business.

Genealogical Significance: Strong cluster: John of Lownane as pursuer; Mr David and Henry of Colliston as debtors. Reinforces Colliston/Lunan family branches and financial activities in 1607.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Horning (unrelaxed); assignee; merks; obligation; procurator.
• Scottish Practices: Use of assignees in debts; chamberlain estate ties.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 564

Date: 15 August 1604 (band registration)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Gabriell Guthrie in Hiltoun

Role (within the document): Witness/subscriber (to band registration; servant or associate context).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): …before Gabriell Guthrie in Hiltoun, William Stewart, servitor to the said David Lindsay, James Roy, and the said writer hereof.

Modern English Rendering: …before Gabriel Guthrie in Hiltoun, William Stewart, servitor to the said David Lindsay, James Roy, and the said writer hereof.

Historical Significance: Part of bond registration in a caution/surety agreement involving Sir Walter Lindsay of Balgay and others. Gabriel Guthrie witnesses the notarial act. Reflects standard legal practices for recording peace bonds under royal letters.

Genealogical Significance: Gabriel Guthrie in Hiltoun (son of Alexander of that Ilk per index p. 564, 571, 634). Key reference for Hiltoun lineage and cadet branches. Witness role indicates local status and connections to Lindsay family.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Band (bond of caution); servitor; writer (notary).
• Scottish Practices: Notarial subscription by witnesses for legal instruments; King’s letters for protection.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 571

Date: 4 October 1604 (band registration; sederunt Perth)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Gabriell Guthrie, brother of Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk

Role (within the document): Witness/subscriber (to band registration).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): …before David Lindsay, son of the said Sir Walter, William Stewart, his servitor, Gabriell Guthrie, brother of Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, James Roy, and the said writer hereof.

Modern English Rendering: …before David Lindsay, son of the said Sir Walter, William Stewart, his servitor, Gabriel Guthrie, brother of Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, James Roy, and the said writer hereof.

Historical Significance: Registration of mutual caution bands (lawburrows) between Lindsay parties for peace. Gabriel and Alexander Guthries serve as credible witnesses. Standard notarial practice under royal letters.

Genealogical Significance: Explicitly links Gabriel Guthrie as brother to Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk (index pp. 564, 571, 634). Critical for that Ilk/Hiltoun lineage and family structure.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Lawburrows (peace bonds); servitor; notary public; writer hereof.
• Scottish Practices: Witness subscriptions for legal bands; mutual cautions among gentry.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 571

Date: 4 October 1604 (band registration; Perth sederunt)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Gabriell Guthrie (brother of Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk)

Role (within the document): Witness/subscriber to notarial band registration.

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): …before David Lindsay, son of the said Sir Walter, William Stewart, his servitor, Gabriell Guthrie, brother of Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, James Roy, and the said writer hereof.

Modern English Rendering: …before David Lindsay, son of the said Sir Walter, William Stewart, his servitor, Gabriel Guthrie, brother of Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk, James Roy, and the said writer hereof.

Historical Significance: Registration of lawburrows (peace bonds) involving Lindsay of Balgay/Mercus. Guthries serve as reliable witnesses/notarial subscribers.

Genealogical Significance: Explicitly identifies Gabriel Guthrie as brother to Alexander Guthrie of that Ilk. Key sibling link for that Ilk/Hiltoun genealogy (index pp. 564, 571, 634).

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Lawburrows; servitor; notary public.
• Scottish Practices: Multiple witnesses for binding legal acts.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 575

Date: 1 September 1604 (charge date; registration 2 October 1604, Aberdeen)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Gilbert Guthrie, younger, messenger

Role (within the document): Messenger (official deliverer of charge for bond).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): …conform to the charge given to him by Gilbert Guthrie, younger, messenger, of date at Perth 1st September last.—The band, registered by Mr Isak Broun, advocate, and written by James Davidsoun, notary public, is subscribed at Abirdene, 2nd October, before Mr Alexander Irving, advocate, James Giliruff in Murthill, and Alexander Irving in Wastoun.

Modern English Rendering: …conform to the charge given to him by Gilbert Guthrie, younger, messenger, of date at Perth 1st September last.—The band… is subscribed at Aberdeen, 2nd October…

Historical Significance: Gilbert, as messenger, delivers official charge for a salmon fishing prohibition bond. Demonstrates enforcement of parliamentary acts on resources (Die/Don rivers). Standard notarial registration.

Genealogical Significance: Gilbert Guthrie, younger, messenger (index p. 575). Professional role (messenger) distinguishes him from other Gilberts (e.g., p. 38, 40). Indicates mobility/status in Perth/Aberdeen area.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Messenger (official process server); charge; band.
• Scottish Practices: Messengers for legal notices; notary subscriptions.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 576

Date: 16 November 1604 (Haddington; answer due 29th instant)

Guthrie(s) Identified: William Guthrie (servitor to Sir John Wishart of Pittarro); Thomas Guthrie

Role (within the document): Respondents (summoned to answer oppression complaint; caution/bond context).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): …William Guthrie, servitor to Sir Johne Wischart of Pittarro, Waltir Ramsay in Fuirdhoussis of Pittarro… Thomas Guthrie there… 200 merks each, to answer before the Council upon 29th instant to a complaint made against them by Waltir Wode of Fettircairne, touching certain points of oppression committed by them upon him.

Modern English Rendering: …William Guthrie, servitor to Sir John Wishart of Pittarro… Thomas Guthrie there… 200 merks each, to answer before the Council upon 29th instant to a complaint… of oppression committed by them upon him.

Historical Significance: Group summons with caution for alleged oppression by Pittarro-associated men against Walter Wood. Reflects council management of local disputes and retainers’ actions.

Genealogical Significance: William Guthrie (servitor to Pittarro) and Thomas Guthrie (likely same area). Ties to Pittarro network (post-slaughter context). Helps map servitors and local Guthries.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Oppression; servitor; caution (200 merks).
• Scottish Practices: Collective summons for group complaints; bonds to appear.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 578

Date: 12 December 1604 (Haddington)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Thomas Guthrie in Halhill; William Guthrie (servitor to Sir John Wishart of Pittarro)

Role (within the document): Respondents (summoned with caution to answer oppression complaint).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): …Thomas Guthrie in Halhill, George Mylne in Bancherich… William Guthrie, servitor to Sir Johne Wischart of Pittarro… 200 merks each, not to harm Waltir Ramsay of Furdhoussis of Pittarro… or Alexander Low in Balfechie.

Modern English Rendering: …Thomas Guthrie in Halhill… William Guthrie, servitor to Sir John Wishart of Pittarro… 200 merks each, not to harm Walter Ramsay of Fordhouse of Pittarro… or Alexander Low in Balfechie.

Historical Significance: Follow-up summons in the Walter Wood oppression complaint against Pittarro-associated group. Caution bonds required to prevent further harm. Council continues managing the feud/dispute.

Genealogical Significance: Thomas Guthrie in Halhill and William Guthrie (Pittarro servitor). Reinforces Pittarro connections (pp. 576, 578) and Halhill presence. Useful for servitor and local tenant mapping.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution (200 merks); oppression.
• Scottish Practices: Group cautions in complaints; protection of parties.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 606

Date: 4 July 1605, Edinburgh

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr David Guthrie, chamberlain of Arbroith (Arbroath)

Role (within the document): Recipient (of taxation relief payment from Margaret Dischington).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused entry): James Dischingtoun, saddler, burgess of Edinburgh, for Margaret Dischingtoun, Lady Langhirdmestoun, to pay to Mr David Guthrie, chamberlain of Arbroith, £26, 13s. 4d. for his relief of her part of the taxation of 100,000 merks granted to his Majesty in February 1601, in case it be found that she ought to do the same.

Modern English Rendering: James Dischington, saddler, burgess of Edinburgh, for Margaret Dischington, Lady Langhirdmeston, to pay to Mr David Guthrie, chamberlain of Arbroath, £26, 13s. 4d. for his relief of her part of the taxation of 100,000 merks granted to his Majesty in February 1601, in case it be found that she ought to do the same.

Historical Significance: Taxation relief dispute from 1601 levy. Mr David, as chamberlain, seeks payment from Lady Langhirdmeston’s representative. Reflects estate administration and royal taxation enforcement.

Genealogical Significance: Mr David Guthrie, chamberlain of Arbroath, active in official financial role 1605. Consistent with multiple index entries. Highlights professional position in Angus abbey estates.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Relief (tax contribution); taxation; chamberlain.
• Scottish Practices: Chamberlains handling abbey/tax affairs; burgess sureties.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 625

Date: 28 January 1606

Guthrie(s) Identified: Patrik Guthrie, fiar of Kinblachmonth (Kinblackmonth)

Role (within the document): Principal in caution bond (surety for John Auchterlony of Cairnay).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): Patrik Guthrie, fiar of Kinblachmonth, for Johnne Auchterlony of Cairnay, £1000, in manner and to the effect abovewritten, conform to the King’s letters dated at Edinburgh, 6th instant.—The band, registered by Mr Henry Balfour, advocate, and written by Archibald Peirsoun… is subscribed there, 21st January [registration context], before William Ouchterlony and Johne Ouchterlony.

Modern English Rendering: Patrick Guthrie, fiar of Kinblackmonth, for John Auchterlony of Cairnay, £1000… conform to the King’s letters dated at Edinburgh, 6th instant.

Historical Significance: Caution bond under royal letters. Patrick as fiar guarantees £1000 for Auchterlony. Standard mechanism for gentry peace assurances.

Genealogical Significance: Patrick Guthrie, fiar of Kinblackmonth. Confirms heir status and active role. Key for Kinblackmonth lineage.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 634

Date: 27–28 April 1606 (registration; Perth/Edinburgh context 1604–1605)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Gabriell Guthrie (servant to Sir David Herring of Lethindie)

Role (within the document): Servant/witness (to bond registration).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): …before Archibald Herring of Wester Drymmie, Androw Herring of Callie, his son, Donnald Cargill, notary public, the said writer hereof, Sir David Herring of Lethindie, James Herring, his servant, David Lindsay of Balgay, and Gabriell Guthrie, his servant.

Modern English Rendering: …before [witnesses including] Gabriel Guthrie, his [Sir David Herring’s] servant.

Historical Significance: Registration of lawburrows bonds (peace sureties) related to prior executions. Gabriel as servant/witness in notarial act.

Genealogical Significance: Gabriel Guthrie serving Sir David Herring. Complements earlier brother reference to Alexander of that Ilk. Indicates service roles for Guthries.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Lawburrows; servant; notary public.
• Scottish Practices: Servants as witnesses; multi-date registrations.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 642

Date: 1 July 1606 (Perth)

Guthrie(s) Identified: James Guthrie in Wodwray (Woodwrae/Woodwray)

Role (within the document): Respondent/cautioned party (in group bond not to harm).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): …and both for James Guthrie in Wodwray, George Willok there… 400 merks each, not to harm James Betoun of Melgund.

Modern English Rendering: …and both for James Guthrie in Woodwray… 400 merks each, not to harm James Betoun of Melgund.

Historical Significance: Group caution bond to keep peace and not harm James Betoun of Melgund. Part of broader lawburrows enforcement in Perth area.

Genealogical Significance: James Guthrie in Woodwrae (index p. 642). Local tenant/resident role. Complements other Woodwrae-area mentions.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Caution (400 merks); not to harm.
• Scottish Practices: Collective bonds for peace among locals.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 650

Date: 18 August 1606 (Edinburgh; registration 16 August, Dundee)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Andro Guthrie (in the Kirkton of Aberlemno)

Role (within the document): Cautioned party/respondent (in bond not to harm minister).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): James Betoun of Melgoun for Adam Smyth, Andro Guthrie, and Robert Fordell, in the Kirkton of Abirlemno, not to harm Johnne Lindsay, minister at Abirlemno, under the pains in the King’s letters.

Modern English Rendering: James Betoun of Melgoun for Adam Smith, Andrew Guthrie, and Robert Fordell, in the Kirkton of Aberlemno, not to harm John Lindsay, minister at Aberlemno, under the pains in the King’s letters.

Historical Significance: Caution bond protecting minister John Lindsay from harm by local group. Enforced under royal letters; reflects kirk protection and local tensions in Aberlemno.

Genealogical Significance: Andrew Guthrie in Kirkton of Aberlemno (index p. 650). Local resident role. Ties to Aberlemno area Guthries.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Not to harm; King’s letters; caution.
• Scottish Practices: Bonds safeguarding ministers; group cautions.

First Series, Volume VII / Page 654

Date: 15 September 1606 (Elgin)

Guthrie(s) Identified: Mr James Guthrie, minister at Urquhart

Role (within the document): Witness/subscriber (to bond registration).

Full Transcription (Guthrie-focused portion): …before William Douglas, vicar of Elgin, Mr James Guthrie, minister at Urquhart, Mr William Clogie, preacher of God’s Word at Elgin.

Modern English Rendering: …before William Douglas, vicar of Elgin, Mr James Guthrie, minister at Urquhart, Mr William Clogie, preacher of God’s Word at Elgin.

Historical Significance: Registration of caution bond by Bishop of Moray. Mr James Guthrie witnesses as minister. Reflects kirk involvement in legal acts.

Genealogical Significance: Mr James Guthrie, minister at Urquhart (index p. 654). Clerical role in Moray/Elgin area. Distinguishes ecclesiastical Guthries.

Ruling Authority / Legal Terms / Scottish Practices:

• Ruling Authority: James VI.
• Legal Terms: Minister/preacher; bond registration.
• Scottish Practices: Clergy as witnesses; notarial acts in Elgin.

First Series: Volume 8
(1607-1610)