It was discovered, and prevented by the arrest of the persons suspected of sharing in it. =9. Malt-tax Riots.=--In 1713 it was proposed to extend the malt-tax which was paid in England, to Scotland. But this measure met with such strong opposition on the part of the Scotch members as almost to threaten a dissolution of the Union. At length, in 1724, a duty of threepence on every barrel of ale was laid on instead of the malt-tax. But though this time the members agreed to the new tax, the people would not, and a serious riot broke out at _Glasgow_. Two companies of foot were sent from _Edinburgh_ to put down the tumult, under the command of _Captain Bushell_, who ordered his men to fire, whereby nine persons were killed and many more wounded. This only made the rioters more furious. _Bushell_ narrowly escaped being torn in pieces by the mob, and had to seek refuge in _Dunbarton Castle_. The tumult was not put down till _General Wade_ brought up a force large enough to overawe the mob, and sent the magistrates prisoners to Edinburgh. There they were tried and acquitted. To avoid paying the tax, the brewers of Edinburgh made a compact to brew no more beer if the duty were not taken off. In consequence of these disorders the office of _Secretary of State_ for Scotland was done away with, because the _Duke of Roxburgh_, who held it, was suspected of encouraging the discontent. At length the _Earl of Islay_ was sent down to Edinburgh, and succeeded in restoring quietness. _Bushell_ was tried for murder and found guilty, but was afterwards pardoned and promoted.