Earls of Middleton, Lords of Clermont and of Fettercairn

John Middleton, First Earl of Middleton. 5 1
"Most Sacred Soveraine
"Your Majestie's loyal and faithfull subjects
nowe in armes had no End of ther raising-, but that
which was just and honourable; and since your
Majestie's honour, and preservation was maynlie
aym'd at, by all of us; wee shall never act anie thing
that may tend to your Majestie's prejudice; or ruyne
(ruin) of this kingdome. I was redye in obedience to
your Majestie's commands to have com'd to Perth ;
but in regard the Noblemen and Gentlemen, nowe in
armes, have put their commands upon me, they have
thoght fitt, to send my Lord Ogilvie, and General!
Major Van Drosk, fullie instructed : but because your
Majestie's condition is not knowen to us, it is desired
that the Earl of Dumfermling be sent pledge for ther
saife returne. It is the humble desire of all heire,
that your Majestie wold look upon us, as persones
that have nothing before us, but your Majestie's
interest, and in particular, that I am redye to perish,
rather than disobey your Majestie's commands; as
most Sacred Soveraine your Majestie's most loyall,
most faithful and obedient subject and servant,
"JO. MlDDLETONE.
"Glams October 22 1650.
" For the King." 1
Extract from Correspondence of Sir Robert Kerr, first Earl of
Ancram, and his son William, third Earl of Lothian, from 1649 until
1667. Published at Edinburgh, 1875.