In the late 16th century, during a period fraught with suspicion and fear of the arcane, Niniane Chirneyside found himself caught in the staggering web of witchcraft accusations that plagued Scotland. A servant of middling status, Niniane was employed by Francis Stewart, the Earl of Bothwell—an association that would prove to be both prestigious and perilous. As a 'servitor' under Bothwell, Niniane managed to maintain his own servant, suggesting a role of some significance within the household. However, such connections did not safeguard him when dark allegations arose.
On March 6, 1591, Niniane Chirneyside was summoned to appear before King James VI at Holyrood Palace, alongside his own servant, referred to only as Nesbitt in surviving documents. They faced grave charges of witchcraft and treason, accusations that often intertwined during an era intensely concerned with both the supernatural and political intrigue. However, Niniane and his servant never presented themselves before the king. Historical records do not detail their reasons for abstaining from the royal summons or their whereabouts thereafter, leaving a significant gap in the narrative of their lives.
The absence of a formal trial or detailed procedural records regarding Niniane Chirneyside's case leaves many questions unresolved, casting a shadow over this historical episode. It is unclear whether he managed to evade capture, was subject to alternative judicial processes, or simply escaped the historical record altogether. Nonetheless, his story, like those of many others caught up in the witch trials, reflects the pervasive atmosphere of fear and distrust that characterized this tumultuous period in Scottish history.