In April 1599 Home went abroad, it was said he travelled for his health because he was "sore grieved with the French pox", and he resigned the office of warden of the east marches, which was bestowed on Sir Alexander Home of Manderston.
Later in April 1599, Home departed for overseas, citing poor health caused by a distressing venereal disease, and he stepped down from his role as guardian of the eastern borders, which was subsequently taken on by Sir Alexander Home of Manderston.