In the atmospheric and politically charged atmosphere of early seventeenth-century Scotland, the case of Robert Erskine, a man of upper socioeconomic standing from Logie, unfolded dramatically. Known as Johnne of Logy and notably the heir apparent of Dun, Robert's position contrasted sharply with traditional perceptions of those commonly accused of witchcraft, who were often marginalized figures. On December 1, 1613, Robert Ermude found himself embroiled in a serious trial where he was charged with witchcraft, among other accusations. His trial, though not conducted at the High Court, involved a remarkable assemblage of influential figures on the assize, indicating the gravity with which his case was regarded. The Lord Advocate himself prosecuted the trial, reflecting the state's vested interest in the proceedings.
Robert's confession was recorded in 1613, yet it was not the deeds of magic that ultimately sealed his fate. The trial notes emphasize that he was executed primarily for the crime of poisoning, a more tangible and ominous charge. His sentence was execution by beheading, a distinction from the more common execution methods for witchcraft such as burning, which sets his case apart. His execution at Mercat Cross, a central and symbolic location, underscored its public and exemplary purpose. His association with other individuals mentioned in various trials, such as Johnne Kirk, George Kirk, Gilbert Campbell, and Jonet Irving, as accomplices, weaves a complex web of intrigue and entanglement.
The intersection of his noble status with the severe allegations paints a stark portrait of how the witch hunts could transcend social boundaries, ensnaring even those of considerable societal stature. The case of Robert Erskine serves as a poignant illustration of the multifaceted nature of witchcraft accusations in Scotland during this tumultuous period, where fear, politics, and personal animosities could converge with dire consequences.