Documents concerning legal proceedings: John Anderson of Dunfermline against Bessie...

Documents concerning legal proceedings: John Anderson of Dunfermline against Bessie Paulle [née Cairns] and George Bickerton (Bikartoun) (ff. 59-69): (i) Royal order to William Thall ['Thrall' in endorsement] and [blank], sheriffs in hac parte. John Anderson of Dunfermline brings charges concerning land in Burntisland, sold by his deceased uncle Andrew Anderson in July 1563 to Henry Bickerton and his wife Bessie [née Cairns]. Documents concerning the sale remained with Andrew Anderson until about August 1565, when they were seized or hidden by the Bickertons, who refuse to release them or, except under compulsion, to show them to the lords of council and session. The sheriff is to order Bickerton's widow Bessie and son and heir George to appear on 8 June, bringing the relevant documents. [Signed]: R. Cass. Seal. Notarial sign. 30 May 1593. (ii) Note [in different hand]: One of [? the attorneys] being absent, the case is to be continued [no date given]. [Endorsed]: 1. By William Thrall. On 31 May 1593 he personally delivered a copy of the summons to Bessie 'Cairns alias Paull', the female defender and, failing to see George Bickerton personally, gave a copy of the summons to Bickerton's wife at their home in Burntisland. Two witnesses [named] to his actions. Seal, said to be affixed, now missing. 2. Names [in different hand] of parties to the suit. 9 June 1593