He was tried along with his father for high treason in March 1684 for being part of the rising at Bothwell Bridge. A not proven verdict was returned but nevertheless he and his father were imprisoned on the Bass Rock on the Firth of Forth in Haddingtonshire. The order for his transport from the Tolbooth is dated 15 September 1684. It apparently took about 4 days to put into effect. He was sent at the same time as John Rae but neither he nor Rae were permitted to ride in a coach or on a horse someone provided.