Note 171 — Chapter III · THE PROGRESS OF CARD-PLAYING.

William Maxwell, in a catalogue of his works prefixed to his 'Admirable Prophecies concerning the Church of Rome,' 4to, 1615, inserts the following as one already published: "Jamesanna, or a Pythagorical play at cards, representing the excellency and utility of Union and Concord, with the incommodities of Division and Discorde, dedicated to the most hopefull Prince Charles." He also mentions another work of his, of the same kind, unpublished, written in imitation of More's Utopia. The author informs us, that his grandfather, William Maxwell, son of the Laird of Kirkconnel, was man-at-arms to the Most Christian King, and had the honour to serve the mother of Mary Queen of Scots, and also Mary herself. The Maxwells are still "Lairds of Kirkconnel," in Dumfries-shire. "Fair Kirkconnel Lea," mentioned in the old ballad, "I wish I were where Helen lies," is one of the most beautiful spots in Britain.