SCOTT WALTER: (1771-1832) Scottish historical novelist, poet, playwright and historian. Manuscript docket signed, Walter Scott, to the final page of a manuscript document, Selkirk, 31^st July 1805. The manuscript document is a Summons between Christian Pasley and William Tait, four pages, folio, Selkirk, 29^th May 1805, and states, in part, 'Whereas it is humbly meant and shown to us by Christian Pasley….that where the Complainer about Martinmas last brought forth a female natural child to William Tait…..presently working at a road which is making over the hills……and although the said William Tait is the father of her child, yet he refuses to acknowledge himself as such and to pay her a suitable maintenance for its support although frequently desired unless compelled. Therefore the said William Tait….ought & should….make payment to the said Pursuer of the sum of one pound Sterling…..per Quarter for the first three Quarters for nursing said child during that period, and the sum of three pounds Sterling per annum thereafter untill the said child shall attain the age of twelve years complete for cloathing & maintaining it during that period', followed by a statement signed by William Tait denying being the father, in part, 'the Defender who denies being the Father of the pursuers child, he admits being acquainted with her and that he was her fellow servant at Mrs. Horsburgh's…..' Scott's docket, signed in his capacity as Advocate Sheriff-Depute of Selkirkshire states, in part, '….the Sheriff allows the pursuer a proof of the circumstances condescended on with certification that if they be proved he will allow the Pursuers oath in supplement & that the Defendr. will be found liable in all the expense….' Some age wear and light dust staining and a few small holes to some of the folds, G