It may somewhat modify the views generally taken of the destruction
of relics of the ancient religion under the Protestant governments
succeeding the Reformation, that John Lockhart of Bar was denounced
rebel at this time for conveying John Macbrair forth of the castle of
Hamilton, and ‘for down-casting of images in the kirk of Ayr and other
places.’[52]
About the same time, the Regent learned that the lead upon the
cathedrals of Aberdeen and Elgin was in the course of being piecemeal
taken away. Thinking it as well that some public good should be
obtained from this material, the Privy Council ordered (February 7,
1567-8) that the whole be taken down and sold for the support of the
army now required to reduce the king’s rebels to obedience.
* * * * *
[Sidenote: 1567-8.