In the year 1658, amidst the climate of suspicion and fear that marked much of early modern Scotland, Agnes Mortoune, a resident of Riccarton in Ayr, found herself accused of witchcraft. According to historical records, Agnes was a married woman, whose life took a dramatic turn when her name appeared in the Ayr Court list destined for trial on April 6th. Her presence on the porteous roll implies she was part of a group swept up in the broader waves of witchcraft accusations that characterized this tumultuous period. The list, specifically dated March 31st, 1658, summoned this entire group, making clear the systemic nature of the proceedings against her and others.
However, unlike many contemporaries who appeared before the courts, Agnes Mortoune was reported as being "not to be found," suggesting that she had become a fugitive. The term indicates that Agnes was either in hiding or had fled, evading the significant consequences that her trial might have brought. Such an action could reflect the perilous position of those accused during this time, as witch trials often culminated in severe punishment. Her evasion marks her situation as notably different from others who faced their accusers, hovering in obscurity as court records go silent following the mention of her case. Agnes's story, or what little is known of it, highlights the anxiety and desperate measures that characterized the fearsome saga of the Scottish witch hunts.