[Mary Stuart]. Mary Queen of Scots Document Signed "MARIE R." One page, 12.25" x 16.5", [illegible]; February 1, 1563. An official document, written in Old Scots English regarding a Bill. Marked "No. 279" on verso. Remnants of a red wax seal at the conclusion of the document. Mary Stuart (1542-1587) was the only surviving legitimate child of James V of Scotland and cousin of Queen Elizabeth I. In 1558 she married Francis II, the Dauphin of France, and became queen consort in 1559. After his death in 1560, she returned to Scotland and remarried. Mary had hopes of being named Elizabeth I’s heir to the English throne, but instead, Elizabeth viewed her as a threat and imprisoned her. In 1586, Mary was found guilty of an assassination plot against the queen and was put to death. At the time this document was signed, the young queen (only 21 at the time) was travelling the country when a young French poet, Pierre de Châtelard, attempted to assault her. He had become infatuated with Mary, but had been banished from court after being found hiding under her bed at Holyrood Palace. After his assault attempt, he was tried and executed at St Andrews. Condition: Flattened folds, with separations and paper loss at the fold intersections. These holes have been repaired with archival material on verso. Chipping at the edges. Uneven toning, along with soiling and foxing throughout. Additional soiling on verso. Clear signature. HID03101062020 © 2020 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved