Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1822 edition. Excerpt: ... and large extent of bounds, and so remote from the ordinary seat of justice and judicatures, the inhabitants could not repair to the said judicatures without great trouble and expence, to complain when they were oppressed and grieved: That it is not only fit for his Majesty's interest, but will be for the great advantage of his Majesty's subjects dwelling there, that, without interposing any other lord or superior between his Majesty and them, they should have an immediate dependence upon his Majesty and his officers, being their greatest security against all foreign attempts, and oppression at home. "That notwithstanding divers former acts of annexation, yet, importunity prevailing with his Majesty and his royal father, their goodness and inclination to gratify their subjects, they had been induced to give away and part with so great a jewel of their crown, and To Dispone And Grant Rights Of The Earldom Of Orkney And Lordship Of Shetland, To The Great Prejudice Of His Majesty, His Crown And Subjects, And Contrary To Law." APPENDIX TO THE HISTORY OF THE UDALLERS. A slight sketch of the political state of Orkney and Shetland from 1669 to the present period, may be properly appended to this history. After the act of annexation, the revenues of these islands were let out to different farmers, upon leases not exceeding five years. These tacksmen are said to have been not less scrupulous than their predecessors in the office of contributing to the distresses of the islanders. In 1697, the Presbyterian form of church-government was introduced into Orkney and Shetland. All lands belonging to the Church then returned to the Crown; but since they were not annexed to it, they could be disposed of by the Sovereign at pleasure. Three years...
