In the midst of the agitation came down the tidings of the King's flight.

The members of the government gave up all thought of contending with the popular fury, and changed sides with a promptitude then common among Scottish politicians.

The Privy Council by one proclamation ordered that all Papists should be disarmed, and by another invited Protestants to muster for the defence of pure religion.

The nation had not waited for the call.

Town and country were already up in arms for the Prince of Orange.