History of the life and death of John, Earl of Gowrie

20 LIST OF TRACTS.
informs us, were present in Perth at the time.
Most of these gentlemen had heen brought to-
gether on various pretences, for the purpose of
protecting and assisting the King in accomplishing
his cruel scheme, but without their having know-
ledge of what he was intending to do.
21. P ANTON'S DISSERTATIONS.
Since my writing the above list of tracts, Mr.
William Panton has published his book on the
Gowrie Conspiracy, printed by Morison at Perth
in the year 1812. He fully transcribes the ac-
count given by the King, and the depositions of
the witnesses who were examined at the trial of
the deceased brothers ; also the feigned letters pro-
duced, and the depositions of the witnesses taken,
at the trial of Logan of Restalrig, and of Sprott
the notary. Mr. Panton has exposed the deficien-
cy of evidence in both these trials, in the most
masterly and satisfactory manner. No such advo-
cate was allowed at these trials, to object to the
admission of improper witnesses, or to cross exa-
mine those who were admitted.