[1641/7/44]¹

Procedure: the Earl of Montrose heard and commanded to return to the castle

[James Graham], earl of Montrose, being heard in presence of the lords of parliament, declared that he formerly desired to be heard to know the command or pleasure of the estates, to which he should endeavour to give satisfaction to the full as near as he could.

The estates, being advised therewith, declare that this hearing being granted to him upon his supplication often presented and pressed in parliament, it is permitted to him by the estates to say what he thinks fitting to propose to them. Which being intimated to the earl, the Earl of Montrose declared that albeit some great imputations be laid to his charge, yet he is so confident of his own innocency that he will not deprecate but supplicate for justice and trial.

The estates, having advised therewith, declare they will take to their consideration what course they will next take regarding this and in the meantime command my lord to return to the castle.

And this being pronounced to the Earl of Montrose he declared that in all humility he received the sentence of the parliament and expected confidently justice in all their proceedings, being hopeful to clear his own innocency.

It being voted to what day the Earl of Montrose should be summoned, whether upon 21 days, 8 days or more or less, the estates appoint the citation to be given upon 15 days, which they find sufficient.