ITEM, In the Parliament holden at Edinburgh, the 12th day of November, the year of God 1526 [1528] years; The which day, anent the Article of slaughters, murders, burning: IT IS statute and ordained, that the Acts made thereupon of before, and the old Laws be kept, with this addition, that who comes and burns folks in their houses, and corns, and willful fire-raising, be treason, and lese-majesty, because such deeds are exorbitant, and more against the common weal, than other crimes. And particular Justice airs, or general Justice airs, be set thereto, as shall please the King’s Majesty, his Council, and the Justice for the time, with their consent. Providing, that it shall be lesum [lawful], to any man to pursue, and follow common thieves, and rebels, to take them. And if they enter into houses, that it shall be lawful to invade, break, or destroy the saids houses, by fire or otherwise, to the intent and effect of taking, or slaying of the saids thieves, or rebels, for the which there shall follow upon the doers, no pain, accusation, crime, [nor offence—Ed. 1568.] but to be free thereof at all times.