In the records of the Scottish witch trials, the case of John Scott, a workman hailing from Leith, presents an account typical of many individuals caught in the widespread fear of witchcraft that gripped Scotland in the 17th century. John, described as very poor, relied entirely on his daily labors to sustain himself. His name first arose in the records of the High Court before he was formally indicted for witchcraft during a circuit court session held in Edinburgh on September 8, 1679. Like many accused during these turbulent times, John Scott faced serious allegations encompassing witchcraft, sorcery, and necromancy, as well as the severe claim of having renounced his baptism and pledging allegiance to the Devil himself.
However, unlike many others accused during this era, John's trial concluded neither in execution nor in further imprisonment. The record notes that his "diet was deserted," an indication that the proceedings against him did not reach a conclusion or that no evidence sufficient for conviction was presented, leading to his release. Despite this release, John's ordeal did not end immediately—he was listed once more on the Edinburgh porteous roll of delinquent dittays after the trial, underscoring the persistent suspicion and notoriety that such accusations carried. These rolls contained names of individuals accused of various offenses, inevitably marking him in the communal mind despite the absence of a formal conviction.