[1587/7/146]¹

Commission to treat for defence of the realm in time of war

²The king's majesty and three estates of this present parliament give and grant full power and commission to his trusty and well beloved councillors and others, William [Maxwell], lord Herries, Master Robert Douglas, provost of Lincluden, collector general, William Kerr of Cessford, Andrew Kerr of Faldonside, Sir James Home of Cowdenknowes, knight, Alexander Home of Huttonhall and Alexander Home of North Berwick Mains, or any five, four or three of them, to convene together in what place and as often as they think expedient between now and 1 October 1587, and to advise upon the best and most likely means that may be upon such of the acts of parliament and others concerning customs and such things as they may gather upon their own experience for defence of the realm in time of war and quieting of the border in time of peace, and to make overtures thereupon at their good discretion; and bring and present the same before his majesty and lords of his secret council between now and the said day, to be seen and considered by them, to the effect that further order may be taken thereupon as appertains, and that letters be directed hereupon, if need be, in the appropriate form.