134 Krrx-Sesston Recorps oF IrRonGRay, 1691-1700. 
The next Hepburnian was a neighbour of this wilful Miss 
Welsh, and he gave the session a good run for their money. He 
was James Richardson of Knockshinnoch, whose grave is one of 
the curiosities of Irongray Churchyard. His drama opens in a 
high heroical style. 
A DouBLE OFFENCE. 
“1696, March 30—This day also the session being informed 
of the sinful, scandalous language and gross misbehaviour of 
James Richardson of Knockshinnoch, Wednesday last, viz., of 
his being drunk and wishing that the devil might be in the kirk 
and among the people of Irongray till he came to be a hearer, and 
that would be at leisure, and some other such atheistical, wicked 
expressions. The session appoints their officer to cite the foresaid 
James to appear before them on Sabbath first.”’ 
Sabbath came, but brought no James before the session, but 
after some delay he appeared and “acknowledged that he had 
uttered some rash expressions for which he was sorry, and that too 
much drink had occasioned the samine. Whereupon he was re- 
moved and his confession considered, it was thought (fit) to refer 
the matter to the Presbytery for advice. And he being recalled 
was told that the session was not ripe anent his affair as yet, 
therefore desired him in the meantime to consider his sin and his 
offence, and to labour to lay it so to heart as that he might mourn 
for it before God, that he might obtain pardon ; and that he should 
be advised of the time when they would have him again to 
attend.”’ 
“ April 26, 1696—The session received the Presbytery’s ad- 
vice. ‘The Presbytery having heard of the affair of James 
Richardson, and, considering the disaffection of himself and 
family to the government of the Church as now established, they 
advised that he should be sessionally rebuked for his misbe- 
haviour, and if he could be got to enact himself in the session 
book under such a penalty that he should walk more circumspectly 
in all time coming that it would be convenient.’ ”’ 
“ May 3—He was rebuked for his scandalous behaviour and 
sinful words, and subscribed the following articles under penalty 
of 300 pounds (Scots) :—1. That in all time coming he shall walk 
more holily, righteously, and soberly, guarding against all excess 
in drinking and passions, taking heed to his words, lest he thereby 
