8vo. [26], 102, 133-362, [2], 125pp, [1]. Contemporary blind-ruled calf, modern black calf lettering-piece. Heavily rubbed and marked, joints split, insect damage to foot of spine. Armorial bookplate of the Earls of Hopetoun and later book- label of Mr. William Macmath to FEP, paper repair to head of FFEP, contemporary inked ownership inscription to head of title, slight loss to lower corner of L4.

Gilbert Burnet, (1643-1715), Scottish theologian, Bishop of Salisbury and acclaimed historian. His literary reputation was founded upon the much-lauded History of the Reformation of the Church of England (1679-1714). The Vindication outlines the benefits of the moderate Church policy pursued in Scotland by the Lauderdale administration, whilst at the same time upholding the claim of Royal supremacy over Church matters. It proved to be a mere eulogy to past freedoms, as 1673 saw Lauderdale abandon his moderate policy in favour of repression of Scottish dissent.

William Macmath (1844-1922), scholar and collector of Scottish ballad text, and collaborator on Francis Child's definitive publication, English and Scottish Popular Ballads (1882-1898).