[1661/1/52]¹

Mr James Douglas

The estates of parliament now presently convened by his majesty's special authority, having heard a petition presented to them by Mr James Douglas, late minister at Kirkwall, holding furth that he had served the cure as minister at the Ladykirk eight months in the year 1659, being lawfully admitted thereto but, in regard there was no manse nor glebe for him to reside into, he was forced to demit by advice of the presbytery, who did unanimously, with advice of the parishioners, recommend him to those in power and authority for payment of a two part of the year's stipend. Which petition, being considered by the said estates of parliament and they having heard the report of the commissioners for bills and trade who spoke with [William Douglas], earl of Morton and sheriff of Orkney thereupon, and also having perused a declaration of the presbytery of Orkney bearing that the heritors are most willing that the said Mr James be answered of the two part foresaid of the said stipend, therefore, the said estates of parliament have ordained and by the tenor hereof decrees and ordains the said Mr James to be answered and obeyed of the two part foresaid of the said stipend of the Ladykirk in Orkney, according to use and wont, pertaining to his service above-written, and ordains the persons liable in payment thereof to make good, ready and thankful payment to him of the same accordingly, and ordains letters and executions of horning, poinding and others necessary to be directed hereupon and that upon a simple charge of fifteen days as appropriate.