Trial T/LA/1977
Trial Summary
| Trial Ref | T/LA/1977 |
|---|---|
| Case | Mastertoun,Bessie |
| Accused | Bessie Mastertoun |
Location
Outcome
| Defence | No |
|---|---|
| High Status | No |
| Female Accusers | 0 |
|---|---|
| Male Accusers | 0 |
Pre-Trial
| Arrest | Yes — 4/1649 |
|---|---|
| Confronting Suspects | No |
Notes: The minister and elders of the Dunfermline kirk session made a complaint to the committee of estates regarding a supplication made on Mastertoun's behalf regarding her torture and imprisonment. The session argued that she should remain in prison and that they be allowed to use lawful means to bring her to confession. They said that comfort makes it harder to discover witchcraft. They do not want her released on caution and they want her to pay her own imprisonment The committee agreed with them and their petition was granted.
| Date | Prison | Location | Fate in Prison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steeple | Dunfermline | Moved | |
| 4/1649 | Tolbooth | Dunfermline |