Amelia Volume 2 chapter 8

Montrose's Campaigns, 1645-6

[page 87]
From the "Chartulary":-

"1640. January 15th.

"Donald darg Mccandow Vcdonachie vcphadrick alias Mcgregour in …. some place in or near Balquhidder, is mentioned in Record of Justiciary.

"1640, December, and 1641, February and March.
"The courts halden be ane
nobell erle James erle of Murray,
Lord Doune and Abernethie &c,
Sir Robert Innes of that Ilk Knicht Barrone,
Alex. Dunbar of Westfeild Shireff principall of Elgin & Forres,
Thomas Mackenzie of Pluscarden,
Robert Cuming of Altyr and
Robert Lesley of Funessie
within the tolbuith of Elgin upon the 9, 10, 11, 23, 24 and 25 dayis of february, the 4, 12 and 18 dayis of mairche respective the yeir of God 1641 yeiris conforme to ane commissione direct … from the committe of estaittis the … day of December 1640 yeiris. The Commission includes:
James erle of Findlatter,
James Grant of Freuchie,
James Crichtoun of Frendracht,
Sir William Forbes of Cragievar,
Alexr Abercrombie of Berkinboig,
Sir Alexr Abercrumbie, his son.
The Earls allowed to act by proxy and 5 to be a quorum. Many fined for resetting the Clan Gregour.

"William Stewart at the boit of Boig being sworne declaires he never resett broken men to his knowledge, except fyve of sex of them cam in the day Johne Dow was killet, and his wyff gave them meat and drink And alse confest that ane fidler of the clangregour cam to his hous and wes at his doghters Mariage:
Convictet in twentie pundis. Thomas Crukschank in Elcheis deponet he never resset broken men; Yet confest that Duncan gair and Johne Dow gair cam to his hous and tuik him with them to Archd Stewartes hous at the boit of Skirdur stane [page 88] and keepit him their ane night and causit him drink and eit with them &c. Wm. Logane in Ardequhische being sworne confest that the day old Johne Dowe gair wes killit sex of them forcit him to put them ower the watter of Spey; And confest he zeid as commissioner for the Clangrigour to the Gairmoche to requyre ane compositione fra them in name of the said Johne Dowe gair and others his complices convictit in twentie pundis. Robert Logane in Elcheis confest Intercommoning with Allaster Mcandie Voir at the brydell in Johne McCagies - £10. "-Original in General Register House, Edinburgh.

"1641. November 4th.

"In a report of a Committee of Parliament 'anent the brokin men of the North,' it is represented and desired that letters of horning be issued upon the 30th act of the Parliament 1633 anent the ClanGregor, against those of the Clan contained in the Roll to be given in agreably to the act. Item because John M'fadrick gar Mcgregor, Duncane McGregor his brother, are the chief leaders of the haill Limberis and rebels troublers of the country, and are these who writ the letters produced to Mr Joseph Brodie Minister, It is therefore desired that a price be set upon each of these three persons to be paid to any who shall apprehend or kill them, and that the apprehenders or killers of them shall also be freed of all punishment for any bygone faults, &c. A commission was passed upun the report on the 16th. The contents of the letter written to Mr Brodie are not known.

1642. January 6th.

"Laird of Weme contra M'Gregor.

“Letters raised at the instance of Sir Alexander Meinzeis of Weme making mention that where the oppressiouns and barbarities committed by the Glangregour against his Majesty's good subjects and the complainer and his tenants in special these many years bygone are not unknown to the Lords.

"Patrik Murray (who now against the acts of Council doth also design himself McGregour) within these fourteen days did send an imperious charge and command to the complainer to possess the said Patrick in the lands of the Rannache pertain¬ing to the complainer and because with good reason he refused the said Patrik came upon the … day of November with forty or fifty of his lawless and broken Clan armed with all sort of hostile furniture and settled himself down upon that part of the complainers lands of the Rannache called Kinolachrie and other rooms there where the said Patrik and they yet remain, uplifting the complainers maills and duties and sorning and oppressing his tenants.

"And anent the charge given to the said
Patrik Murray party and Duncan Meinzies alias McGregour in Learg,
Johne McAlexr. Kinnes in Aulich,
Johnne McKenzie Ure there,
Duncane Mcindow vcCondochie in Lerane,
[page 89]
Donald McAndlay Roy in Killechoundome,
Johne Sinclar in Camserachtie Beig,
Gillandreis beig in Innercomre, and
Johnne Mcercher there, witnesses."
- Record of Secret Council, Decreta.

“1642. March I5th.

"Duncane McGregour servitour to Johnne Stewart of Innerchannochan mentioned in Record of Justiciary.

May 11th.

“Mr Alexander Colvil Justice depute and Mr Alexander Hamilton Justice Clerk depute held a Justice Court at Elgin, by way of committee, having convened the Marquis of Huntly, the lord Gordon, the Earls of Murray and Findlater, and many barons. Their errand was to agree with William Mcintosh, alias William McLachlan, to raise 600 men to keep, from Dunnotter north to the sea banks, the haill countries from theft, robbery and oppression of the Clangregor, who were in companies using all violence. There was promised to him 9000 lb. Scots to save the country skaithless, during the space of a year. This agreeance was made at Elgin, as was made before at St. Johnston with James Stuart to save the country from the same Clangregors

"June 14th.

"Horning for the fines of the Resetters of the Clangregor.

"Anent the supplication by James Earle of Murrey, James Earle of Finlater, Sir Robert Innes of that ilk and the remanent commissioners, nominated by the Committee of Estates against the Clangregor and their resetters.

"And wheras there is a Captain and threescore men put forth by commission flowing from the parliament for pursuit and apprehension of broken men and their resetters whose concurrence with the messenger may conduce much for uplifting of the said fines, &c." -Record of Secret Council, Decreta.

"June 18th.

"Sir William Forbes of Craigievar and others appeared as parties in the High Court of Justiciary against Jon Mcphatrick Gar Makgregour' and others for theft " -Record of Justiciary.

"July 21st

"Donald McWilliam in Glenrynnes, Duncan McGregour there, Duncan Roy in Gardoue, charged with stealing, by Forbes of Echt; diet at Elgin prorogated and they ordained to find caution."-Record of Secret Council, Decreta.

"August 9th.

"Patrick Drummond of Culcreiff has a Royal Charter of Balhaldies. Particular Register of Sasines, Perthshire, 30th November 1642, recording Sasine 19th October, on a Precept from Chancery.

[page 90]
"1642. August 10th, 11th, 12th.

"The Earles of Moray and Finlater, the Sherriff of Moray, the Laird of Grant, accompanied by the Justice Depute, the Kings Advocate, and Justice Clerk held a Committee at Elgin for the purpose of taking order with the Clangregour particularly John Dow Gar and with their resetters. Several of the latter were fined although they pleaded that they had acted unwillingly and from necessity.

“1643. February 4th.

"Thomas M'Gregour flescher burges of Perth. " -Record of Justiciary.

"June 23rd.

"Jon Dow Mcphadrick McGregor, Duncane Mcfadrick his brother, Allaster Mceandowie voir Mcgregor, Jon roy Mcgregor in Balvain &c were fugitated by the High Court of Justiciary for not appearing to stand trial on a complaint by Dame Jeane Elphinstone Ladie Forbes elder for herself and in name and behalf of 'hir herreyet and oppressit tennentis of hir lediesehips Landis of Culhay Strathlunik within the paroche of fforbes."-Record of Justiciary.

"July 15th.

"In the Court of Justiciary of Our Sovereign Lord the King held in the Judge-ment Hall of Edinburgh by Lord Thomas Hope Justice General, and Mr James Robertson Justiciary Depute.

Entered:
"Duncane McGregor son to Duncane McGregor in Rannache. Convict and hangit.
“Dilaitit of art and part and being in company of Johne Dow Gar McGregor, Duncane McGregor his brother and others their complices all broken men at the violent taking and binding of James Andersone servitor to Wm. Forbes of Leslie in the month of March last by past carrying him bound from the town of Duncanestoun to the town of Landlandis as a captive and prisoner until the time he was followed and relieved out of their hands by the said Wm. Forbes of Leslie his Mr: Usurping thereby most treasonably upon them his Majesty's Royal power and authority, the said James Andersone being his Majesty's free subject And siclyke for the violent taking of Jon McKie in Towie of Clat as a captive and prisoner, binding him violently to the trees of the bell house of the Kirk of Cairne and not relieving him, nor loosing him until he paid five dollars which was paid in composition by one of his friends; And last for art and part and being in company with the said Jon Dow Gar and his complices at the breaking up of the doors of Wm Donaldsone in Bankhead, stealing and away taking by way of masterful theft and stouethreiff, forth of the said dwelling house of the said Wm Donaldsone his haill guids, geir insicht and plenishing being thereinto to the avail of five hundred merks.

"August.

"Royal Commission to the Marquis of Montrose to raise troops in Scotland.

[page 91]
"Patrik McGregor of that Ilk soon after receiyed from Montrose a Warrant to raise his friends and followers in his Majesty's defence, as appears from a renewed Warrant to that effect 3rd July 1645, referring to a former.

"1643. December 11th.

"Charter by Patrick Drummond of Culcrieff of the Lands of Culcrieff to Patrick Drummond younger of Culcrieff - enfeoffed on that day.

"November 10th.

"Jon Mcgregour in Wester Elchies mentioned in Record of Justiciary.

"1644. March 19th.

"Sasine to Janet Andersone, Spouse of John Gregorie, to George Wilson, lawful son of George W. Burgess of Aberdeen by Christian Andersone his Spouse, and to Isabella Andersone, Spouse of Mr Thomas Thoines Minister at Ednie, Heirs portioners of umquhile David Andersone at Fenzeache their Brother, in the lands of Fenzeache in the Regality of St Andrews, Parish of Monymusk, and Shire of Aberdeen, on Precept of Sasine by George Marquis of Huntlie." -Particular Register of Sasine, Aberdeen.

"November, and December.

"The army commanded by James Marquis of Montrose as His Majesty's Lieutenant General over his whole kingdom was, on its march from the Brae of Atholl toward the country of the Marquis of Argyll who headed the insurgents, joined by the ClanGregor and the Clan Nab.

"'Ye heard before of Montrose's march into Atholl,' says Spalding, between 8th and 22nd December 1644. 'He took the Laird of Wemyss, Menzies, captive, and other outstanding rebels; he goes to the Laird of Glenurchie's lands, burns wastes and destroys his country, being one of Argyle's special kinsmen." The Red-Book of Clanronald agrees with these intimations, and further specifies 'both sides of Loch Tay.'

"1645. February 2nd.

"Ane band of unione amongst all his Majesty's faithfull subjects, as also of mutuall assistance and defence.
"Wheras his sacred Majestie for the vindication of his oune honor and just authoritie and the happines and recoverie of his thralled and oppressed subjects, hat been from all reasone and necessitie constrained to oune himself and ther miseries, by declaring by open Proclamations the horrid courses of the rebellious factione that now so raigeth within this kingdome, to be most wicked and traiterous, as they are most unjust and unnatural, willing and requiring all his Majesties faithfull and loyall subjects to yield by no means ther obedience thereto, Bot on the contrarie to joyne themselfs with Prince Maurice his Majesties Nephew and Captain Generall ower this wholl kingdome, or James Marquis of Montrose his Majesties Lieutennant Generall of the same, and to use ther best and most [page 92] vigorous oppositione, against the Actors and Instruments of all those abominable and monstrous crymes: Witt ye ws, therfor Wndersubscryners, out of the deep sense of our deutie to God, our consciences, King, and native countrie, yea to all Lawes and Justice divine and humane by these presents; To bind and obleige ourselfs, Lykas we ar by God and Nature tyed, with our lyfes, fortunes and estates to stand to the mainte(na)nce of the honor and authoritie, of our sacred and native Generall, contrarie to this present perverse, and infamous factione of desperat Rebells, now in force against him, And that we shall, upon all occasions, according as we ar required by his Majestie or any having his authoritie, or as the opportunitie shall offer, be ever readie to wse all our best and most active endeavors for that effect. As also each and everie one of ws do falthfullie promeis mutuallie to assist one another herein, as we shall be desyred or the occasion requir All which befor God and his angells, we most solemnlie, and from our Consciences, and just sense, voluntarlie and sincerlie vowe and promeis firmlie till adher to and never to suerve from As we would be reputed famous Men and Christians, and expect the blessing of Almightie God in this lyf or his eternall happines heirafter. In witness whereof we have subscrynit these presents at Killiwherme [1] the penult dayis of January …. the yeir of God Ane thousand sex hundreth fourtie fyve yeirs.

(Signed)
1. Montrose.
2. Airly.
3. Seaforth.
4. Grahame.
5. Lo Gordon.
6. Thom: Ogilvy.
7. L McLaine of Dowart
8. J. Mcoronald of Eyellanttirrem.
9. E. McDonald apirand of Gleugarrie.
10. Alexander McDonell.
11. Duncane Steuart Fiar of Appen.
12. Donald Camronne Tutor of Lochiell.
13. Nat Gordon.
14.. Gordon of Knokespic
15. Donald Robertsone Tutor of Strowane.
(D.?) Mcpheirsone.
16. P. Campbell of Edinampil.
17. P. Graeme.
18. Johnne Drummond.
19. J. Grame.
[page 93]
20. James Grant of freuchie.
21. Robert Gordon.
22. D. Farcharson.
23. J. Grant of Moyne
24. J. Kinnard of Coulbyne.
25. G. Innes Yungr of Leuthars.
26. Wm. Dow of (Orchardwall?).
27. J. Gordon of Letterfurey.
28 Donald MacDonald of Ceippec ftom the beginning.
29. W. Gordon feyve.
30. A. Gordonne of fyvie Vounger.
31. Alex. Dunbar of (Teikbork?).
32. J. Martine of Kempkairne.
33. J. Abereromby.
34. R. Gordone.
35. W. Innes.
36. P. Gordonne of Kirkhill.
37. T. McKenzie of Pluscardin.
38. Johne Innes of Leuthars.
39. Hugh Innes.
40 T. Mowat of Balquhol.
41. J. Gordon of Carnborrow.
41a. (Name illegible).
42. Patrik McGregre of that Ilk.
43. Murich McLean of Lochbuy.
44. W. Douglas Glenbervy.
45. R. McGwir of Montdow.
46. Wm. Chisholme fiar of Cromlix.
47. F. Hay.
48. Alexr Robertsone of Doune.
49. J. Robertsone fiar of Doune.
50. David Moray of Colquhalzie.
51. L. McPhersone.
52. J. Mceadam.

At the time of King Charles I.'s Parliament in July 1640, or possibly the previous year, after an interview with the King at Berwick the Marquis of Montrose resolved to dissociate himself from the Covenanting party and to serve the Royal Cause. But the Covenanters having again raised [page 94] an army under General David Leslie, he accepted a command in it and started for an invasion of England. The parliamentary power learning that Montrose had formed a band at Cumbernauld to support the royal authority apprehended and imprisoned him in Edinburgh Castle; but he was liberated in the summer of 1641. Later, the Covenanters resolving to send an army again into England to join the parliamentary forces who had come to an open rupture with the Sovereign, Montrose hastened to the King early in 1643 and offered his services. In December he was given supreme command, whilst the Marquis of Huntly was Lieutenant-General, and in April 1644 he entered Scotland with a small body of Horse, but finding little support retired to Carlisle. Argyll collected a large force to oppose Huntly, with which he advanced to Aberdeen. Shortly afterwards Montrose returned privately to Perthshire, where, with the assistance of his cousin, Graeme of Inchbrakie he raised the Highlanders, giving rendezvous to a body of Irish troops sent by the Earl of Antrim, under Allastair McColla Chiotach McDonald of Collonsay, to join him at Blair Atholl, where he could rely on the fidelity and loyalty of the Athollmen. Being well known to the Athollmen, Montrose was soon joined by 8oo men from that district, who were at their own request put under the command of Inchbrakie, as the Earl of Atholl was at that time only 13 years of age. His first victory was at Tibbiemuir near Perth on September I, 1644. It does not appear that any of the ClanGregor fought on this occasion. Montrose afterwards marched to Aberdeenshire where he obtained several victories, but in spite of these successes he had to experience the defection of many of the Lowland gentlemen who had joined him at first. Argyll's army, whilst following him about, seldom came to close quarters, and Montrose withdrew again into Atholl early in November. From thence he resolved to carry the war into the enemy's own country and to make a hostile visit to Argyll.

The following quotation is taken from Canon Murdoch's "Deeds of Montrose," translated from the Latin history by Bishop Wishart, with notes by the translator. [2]
[page 95]
"Much of Breadalbane was in possession of Sir Robert Campbell of Glenurquhy an active Covenanter. His brother Patrick of Edinample was with Montrose and signed the Kilcummin Bond. The MacGregors and MacNabs joined soon after," i.e. November 1644. "Montrose divided his army into three parties, the first commanded by the Chief of the MacDonalds and third by himself. With these he descended on the enemy's fields and ravaged the whole district of Argyll. This devastation of Argyll "lasted from the middle of January 1644. to the end of January 1645."

Montrose's next object was to seize Inverness, but on his march he learnt that Argyll, who had been keeping himself aloof was at Inverlochy intending to oppose him. Montrose whose army at that time consisted of only about fifteen hundred men, the rest having dispersed, was at the head of Loch Ness when he heard of Argyle's designs. By a forced march through Glenroy he arrived in Glennevis before Argyll knew of his approach, Montrose gained a signal victory over Argyll's army who were commanded by Campbell of Auchinbreck. This action, known as the Battle of Inverlochy, took place Feb. 2. 1645.

Montrose went north to Morayshire, Aberdeenshire, &c made one or two expeditions into Forfarshire, including the storming of Dundee, but was hard pressed by the Covenanting army under General Baillie. In April of the same year he went to Dunkeld and from thence marched to Crieff with only a small party. Baillie who with a large army was lying in Perth, attempted to surprise Montrose by a rapid night march; but, discovering his purpose, the royalist leader withdrew his troops up Strathearn, while Baillie, finding it useless to pursue them into the Highlands, returned to Perth. Montrose passed the night on the Banks of Loch Earn and marched next morning through Balquhidder as far as Loch Katrine, when, hearing that another covenanting army was preparing to attack Lord Gordon, he resolved to proceed north immediately to his assistance. He therefore returned through Balquhidder and marched with rapid strides along the side of Loch Tay and through Atholl and Angus, being joined by the Athollmen and other highlanders, who after short campaigns loved to return home for a time. By good fortune he won another great victory at the subsequent Battle of Auldearn, May 1645. [3]
[page 96]
Reference is made to the short visit to Loch Earn in the following passage.

"Montrose retreated from Crieff up the Earn by Comrie, and south of the loch to Loch Earn Head. At the head of Loch Earn three ways lay open, by Glenogle, Strathyre, or Balquhidder. By the last he recruited from the MacGregor" lands." [4]

On July 2, same year, Montrose won another victory over Baillie's Army at Alford, on the river Don, marched through Angus and Blair¬gowrie to Dunkeld, and was rejoined by the Highlanders according to the following narration.

“1645. July. Montrose marched through Angus, after the Battle of Alford where he met his Cousin Patrick Graeme of Inchbrakie, with his Athollmen ready for everything under his command …. Macdonald also joined him ….. with Maclean ….. also the Chief of the MacRanalds ….. with over 500 men; and the MacGregors and Macnabs, inferior to none in courage and endurance, who after the custom of their country followed their leaders and Chieftains, but I am unable to give their exact number."

Montrose for a time took up his quarters at Little Dunkeld. His prospects were now bright, the only obstacle to the entire subjugation of Scotland to the King being the army of Baillie. He was therefore anxious to attack the enemy, whose Fife regiments had lately returned home. An interesting contemporary account [5] may now be given with the details of the battle of Kilsyth in which it is known that the MacGregors bore an honourable part.

"July or August. In the mean time while Montrose entered the shire of Angus, where he met Inchbrakie at the head of the Atholemen, and MacDonald with a good number of Highlanders with whom had joined Mackclean, a powerful man in the Highlands with seven hundred men, and Glengarry, with as many; the Clans of Macgregor and Macknab, with a good number of that of the Farquharsons of the shire of Mar, and some others of Badenoch, all which joined Montrose about the same time.

“16th August Battle of Kilsyth.
[page 97]
"Montrose having resolved to pass this beautiful and rich River of Forth, he marched from Kinross, and incamped about three miles from Stirling. The next day having sent away his Foot before him, he followed them with the Horse, which he kept still in the Rear, suspecting that the enemy was pursuing him, Nor was he deceived in that suspicion; for some spies that he left behind brought word that Bailly was advancing with a powerful Army; and soon after his Scouts began to appear. One of the foremost having been taken prisoner and brought to Montrose confessed to him frankly, that in his opinion the Covenanters were resolved to pursue him the whole night, in order to bring him to a battle as soon as possible before the troops of Fife which by no means would pass the Forth should leave them. Wherupon Montrose having incouraged his men to continue their march, left the town of Stirling on his left hand where there was a strong garrison, and passed the river that same night about four miles above the town. By break of day he was got six miles on this side of Stirling, where having halted, he understood that the Covenanters had not passed the River the night before; but they had incamped about three miles from Stirling on the other side. Nevertheless Montrose still marched on till he came to Kilsyth, where he incamped and ordered his troops to be in readiness, either to fight or march as occasion should offer. In the meantime the Covenanters taking a shorter and more easy way passed the river at the Bridge of Stirling, and incamped about three miles from Kilsyth. During the march of the two armies, the Earl of Lanrick having got together a thousand Foot and about five hundred horse was incamped about twelve miles from Kilsyth, and on the other hand the Earls of Glencarn, Cassils and Eglinton were hastening the levies in the Western shires, which was going on the more easily that that country had not as yet felt any of the inconveniencies that attend War. Therefore Montrose resolved to fight Bailly; for though he was much stronger than he, and that his army consisted of six thousand Foot and eight hundred Horse, Montrose having only four thousand five hundred Foot and five hundred Horse, yet he considered that the Match would be still more unequal if he should wait there till these Earls joined him with their forces; in which case he would be forced, with the danger of losing the reputation he had formerly gained, to betake himself to the mountains. On the other hand the Covenanters thinking that Montrose had passed the Forth more of fear than design, their chief aim was to deprive him of all hopes of a retreat. In order to compass that, by break of day which was the 15 of August, having drawn up their Army, thay began to march directly to the Royalists; which Montrose having perceived, and sensible that the good or bad success of the King's affaim in Scotland depended upon that day, he forgot nothing that a great General could do, for incouraging his soldiers. He ordered them all, as well Horse as the Foot to throw off their doublets and every man turning up his shirt sleeves, by that resolution to strike tenor into the enemy and let them [page 98] know that they were resolved either to conquer or die. In the Field of Battle there were some cottages and Gardens adjoining them, Montrose drawing up his men, posted some musketeers there; but before he had done putting the rest of his men in order of Battle, the Covenanters charged these musketeers very smartly in order to drive them out of that post; but thay received the Enemy without giving ground, and after this first heat was a little cooled, they fell upon them, put them to flight and laid some of them dead upon the spot, which so heartened the Highlanders whereof there were about a thousand in Montrose's advanced Guard, that without waiting the General's orders, they ran desperately up a little hill, within pistol shot of the Covenanters and exposed themselves to be cut in pieces, if the Enemy's Horse had surrounded them. But their advanced Guard waiting for that of the Rear, which was advancing but slowly, Montrose had time to relieve these rash men. For as the Covenanters had caused these troops of Horse, followed by two thousand Foot to advance, in order to attack them, he ordered the brave Earl of Airley to go to their assistance with his Brigade, which he did with so grat courage, that after a sharp ingagement, his Horse which consisted for the most part of gentlemen of his own name of Ogilvie routed the Enemy's Horse and made them fall foul upon their Foot. This advantage continued to animate Montrose's men, so much that with a great shout, they rushed in amongst the Enemy, and charged them with so much fury, that their Horse having given ground the Foot threw down their Arms and fled. The Victorious pursued them hotly for fourteen miles and made so great a slaughter that, about four thousand of them lay dead upon the place, and all their cannon and baggage were taken, besides a great number of Prisoners Montrose only lost six men, three of which were Ogilvie's who paved the way to that great victory, which was a grat check to the Covenant."

Montrose subsequently repaired to Glasgow and Edinburgh. Orders from the King were afterwards sent to him to proceed to the Borders to meet other Royalist forces with whom he was to watch the movements of Leslie's army. But on hearing of Montrose's intention to go south the Highlanders in a body asked leave to return home for a time which necessarily weakened him materially. On September 13,1645, he fought the Battle of Philiphaugh and sustained a crushing and fatal defeat. Montrose returned to Atholl where he induced about four hundred Athollmen to follow him at once to the north in search of further reinforcements with the promise of the whole joining him on his return. The following is quoted verbatim from Browne's “Highlanders."
[page 99]
"1645. Dec. When marching through Strathspey, Montrose received intelligence that Atholl was threatened with a visit from the Campbells, a circumstance which induced him to dispatch Graeme of Inchbrakie and John Drummond younger of Balloch to that district. The inhabitants of Argyle, on hearing of Sir Alexander McDonald's arrival in their country after the battle of Kilsyth, had fled to avoid his vengeance and concealed themselves in caverns or in the clefts of rocks; but being compelled by the calls of hunger to abandon their retreats they had been collected together by Campbell of Ardkinlass to the number of about twelve hundred and had attacked the MacGregors and Macnabs for favouring Montrose"

Being joined by the Stewarts of Balquhidder, the Menzieses and other partisans of Argyle, they meditated an invasion of Atholl and had advanced as far as Strathample, with the intention of carrying their design into execution when intelligence was brought to Inchbrakie of their approach. Inchbrakie and Balloch had by this time collected seven hundred able-bodied men, and with this force they immediately proceeded to meet the Camphells. These had laid siege to Edinample Castle, but on being apprised of the advance of the Athollmen they retired to Menteith whither they were hotly pursued by the Athollmen who overtook them at Callender, near the village of Menteith. After crossing the river Teith they halted and prepared for battle, having previously stationed a large party of musketeers to guard the ford of the river.

Having ascertained the strength and position of the Campbells, Inchbrakie ordered his men to advance to the ford as if with the intention of crossing it in order to draw the attention of the Camphells to this single point, while with the remainder of his men he hastened to cross the river by another ford, higher up and nearer the village. This movement was immediately seen by the Argylemen, who, alarmed at such a bold step and probably thinking that the Athollmen were more numerous than they really were, abandoned the position and fled with precipitation towards Stirling. As soon as the Atholl party stationed at the lower ford saw the opposite bank deserted, they immediately crossed the river and attacked the rear of the retiring Camphells. They were soon joined in the pursuit by the party which had crossed the higher ford, but as the Atholimen had performed a tedious march of ten miles that morning they were unable to continue the pursuit far. About eighty Camphells were killed in the pursuit"

Allusion to this skirmish is made in the following:- [6]

"1646. The survivors of Argyll's men driven from absolute necessity or fear of Macdonald's power and threats of annihilation had left their own country and made a raid on the MacGregors and Macnabs, Montrose's friends. …. They laid [page 100] siege to Edinample but decamped and were defeated by the Athollmen near Callender."

In May 1646 the king desired Montrose to disband his army and retire into France after the disastrous battle of Naseby. In July a cessation of Arms was arranged between Montrose and General Middleton the Covenanting Commander and on the 13. July the Royalist Leader addressed his army and formally disbanded them, sailing to Norway in the following September.

From the " Chartulary":-

“Patrik Macgregor of that Ilk, surnamed popularly Caoch, led a party of his Clan in the Battle of Inverlochy. Red Book of Clanronald, as cited in a Process in the Court of Session, MacDonald of Glengarry versus MacDonald of clanronald, 1824-5."

"1645. June 7th.

"Wheras the Laird of McGregor and his friends have declared themselfs faithfullie for his Majestie and doe follow ws in his service These ar therfor be power and warrand granted be his Majestic to ws to certify and assure theme, that whatsoever lands and possessions belonged justlie, to the said Laird of McGregor and his predecessors in Glenlyon Rannoch or Glenurchy, or whatsoever lands belonged justlie to his freinds and their predecessors and ar now in the possession of Rebells and Enemys to his Majestie's service; They and ther Heirs sall have the same Disponed to them and confirmed be his Majestie under his hand and seal, when it shall please God to put an end to thes present troubles, Providing always that the said Laird of McGregor and his said freinds and their foresaids continow faithfull and constant in his Majestie's service, otherwise these presents shall be null.

“Subscribed at Kinady in Cromar the seventh day of June One thousand sex hundreth fourtie fyve yeires." (Signed) "Montrose."

Transumpt in the Collection of MacGregor of Balhaldies.

Quotation from Spalding in a passage to be found under 1645 October, November or December.

"July 3rd, day after Battle of Alford.

"Wheras the Laird of McGregor hes received a former Commission from his Majestic for raising his Freinds Followers and these of his Name, We therfor by power and Warrand granted to ws be his Majestie, Doe by these presents in his Majestie's name and be his Authoritie, Renew the forsaid concession, and we do of new again give and grant to the said Laird of McGregor the like power and warrand to raise his wholl Freinds Followers and these of his Name for assisting of [page 101] his Majesties service Willing and ordaining him to obey and fullfill the forsaid comission and to do therein accordinglie in everie thing Subscryved at Kinady in Cromar the third day of July Ane thousand sex hundreth and fourtie fyve yeires." (Signed) "Montrose."

Transumpt in the Archives of MacGregor of Balhaldies.

Note connected with foregoing voucher.

“MacGregor had, like others of the commanders of corps, retired to recruit, and had again joined the army with a greater force than he had originally furnished. An eye witness and actor, Clanronald's Bard, after describing the battle of Alford fought 2nd July, says Alexander McDonnell' (meaning Colkitto's son, Major General since the beginning of the campaign) came from the west, with a great army of men, namely John Muidertach, [7] with a band of good looking young men of his own country and kin, and Donald his son along with him, the Clan MacLean from Mull, the Steuarts of Appin, the Clan Gregor and others. MacLean, according to the same author, had before the battle of Inverlochy, joined Montrose with twelve men only, for a body guard. 'When they reached Montrose's camp' says this writer, 'they were joyfully received, and made heartily welcome by him, and by all the rest, and each Clan set in proper order by itself.' According to the Abbé Salmonet, the MacGregors joined Montrose, when he had reached Angus on his way south.'

“1645. August 5th.

"Letter of Slaines McGregours to Buchanens.

"To all and sundry whom it concerns to whose knowledge this present letter shall come We Duncane and Greigour McGreigors natural sons to umquhill Patrick McGreigor alias Auldache Greiting in God everlasting, ',Vitt your (sic) 'universatie' We the said Duncane and Greigor McGreigors for ourselves and taking the burden upon us for Patrik McGreigor our youngest brother and for Duncane McGreigour son to umquhile Malcolme McGreigor alias Auldache and for all others, our kin, friends, men tennents, servants, assisters and partakers, for the sum of …. guid and usual of this realm numerated, paid and delivered to us really and in effect by John Buchanan of Bocastell for himself and in name of Robert Buchanan of Lenie, Robert Buchanan lawful son to Archibald Buchanan brother german to umquhile Robert Buchanan of Bocastell and remanent their kin, friends, mentenants, servants, assisters and part takers To have remitted and forgiven And by the tenor hereof with express advice council and consent of 'Patrik McGreigour of that Ilk cheiff of that name,' Greigor McGreigor eldest lawful son to umquhile Duncane McGreigor of Rora, Williame McAphersons fiar of Inveressie and also with consent and assent of the other persons [page 102] undersubscribed, for their right and interest, if they have any in the matter underwritten Remit and heartily forgive with our hearts the said Johne Buchanan of Bocastell Robert Buchanane of Lenie, Robert Buchanan lawful son to Archibald Buchanane brother german to the said umquhill Robert Buchanane of Bocastell, and the said Archibald himself and all others their kin, friends, allies, assisters and partakers, all offence, wrong, crime, Injury, harm, hurt and leasione committed by umquhill Robert Buchanane of Lenie the said umquhill Robert Buchanan of Bocastell, umquhill Walter his son, the said Archibald Buchanane and Robert his son or any of them In hurting wounding and killing and slaying of the said umquhill Patrik and Malcome McGreigors alias Auldaches upon the ….. day of ….. 1621. [8] And of all rancour, malice, hatred, displeasure, evil will, claim, action, Instance and crime whatsoever Which we or any of us or any others our kin and friends above named, our assisters, allies, and part takers, had, have or any ways may have, conceive, or pretend against the forenamed persons or any one of them or their foresaids for the said slaughter And taking burden upon us, as said is, with consent abovewritten By these presents Discharge all letters raised in the said matter the execution thereof, haill strength, tenor, force and effect of the same with all that has followed or may follow thereupon Like as by the tenor hereof taking burden upon us and with consent as is abovewritten We faithfully promise Bind and oblige us never to Intend, move or pursue any action or plea criminal or civil by way of deed or otherwise In the law or by the law against the said John Buchanane of Bocastell, Robert Buchanan of Lenie, Robert Buchanan lawful son to Archibald Buchanan brother german to the said umquhill Robert Buchanan of Bocastel, or against the said Archibald Buchanan, or any of them, their kin, friends, allies, assisters and part takers for the same Renouncing and expressly discharging all action, feud and enmity thereanent That the same may be hidden and buried in perpetual oblivion And never remembered any more hereafter, And farther taking burden upon us, as said is, and with consent above expressed, we faithfully assure by these presents the haill forenamed persons That none of them nor their foresaids shall be any way molested, troubled, invaded, pursued, hurt nor harmed in their bodies, lands, rents, goods, gear, rooms nor possessions either in the law or by the law By us nor any of us or our foresaids or any others whom we may stop or let, directly or indirectly, for the said crime and offence, or any trouble that has followed or may follow thereupon In all time coming under the pain of perjury, defamation, outlawry, credit and estimation And that by Refunding to them of all cost, skaith, damage, interest and expenses that they shall sustain therethrough in our defaults Consenting for the greater security these presents be inserted and Registrated in the books of Council and Session or Sherrif books of Perth there to have the strength of a Decreet that all letters and executorials needful may pass [page 103] hereupon In form as effeirs upon ten days charge only And for Registrating hereof constitutes our procurators conjunctly and severally for the greater security of the premises In witness whereof these presents written by William Ross notar in Dunkeld We and the other persons consenters have subscribed the same with our hands as follows At Dunkeld the fifth day of August 1645 years before these wit¬nesses Johne McDonald lawful son to umquhill Donald McDonald of Glengarie, Johne Hendersone of Brabstradoran, James Banerman one of the Bailies of Dunkeld, Johne Greig of the hauch of Fengorth, Andro Burt and the said William Ros notaries.

"Duncane and Gregore McGregours foresaids with our hands at the pen led of the notaries under-written at our command because we cannot write.
Signed by Andro Burt and William Ross, Notaries Public by command of the foresaid persons unable to write as they assert.

Greigor M'Greigor consents
Jo McDonald, witnes Wm. McPhersone consents
J. Henderson, witness James Mcpherson consents
James Banerman, witness
Thom Greig, witnes."
-Original in the Leny Collections

"August 15th.

"Extract of Red Book of Clanronald describing the Battle of Kilsyth.

"'The men of Donald son of John Muidartach, and Patrick Caoch MacGregor's men, made but one regiment. They gained the trenches. Donald was the first that leapt over them, and his men followed; and, by the rush of the rest of the army who followed close the great army of the enemy was routed The keys of the great castle were sent from Edinburgh, and all Scotland yielded.'

"September 24th.

"Discharge of Gregor, Patrick and Duncane sons of Patrik Mcgregor alias Aldech and Duncan McGregor son to umqle Malcome McGregor brother to the said umqle Patrik, to John Buchanan of Arupryor, of 650 merks and 325 merks due by bond by umqle Robert Buchanan of Lenie and Walter Buchanan in Bochastell, Sir James Campbell of Lawers Knyt cautioner, granted 3d April 1632. The discharge is dated 24th September 1645.

"1646. January.

"'The Clangregor and Macnabis' plunder Strathire and other lands in Perth [page 104] and Stirling Shires. Complaint to that effect by George Buchannane fear of that Ilk, proprietor of these Lands, to the Parliament 15th March 1649. See that date.

"July 24th.

“Wheras the Laird of McGregor has been engaged in his Majesteis service during thes troubles wherin he hes aquitted himselfe most Loyallie and Faithfullie Thes ar therfor not onlie to witnes the same but also to assure him That whensoever it shall please God to restore his Majestie and render to him his just Rights that he shall be thankfullie and amplie rewarded according to his deservings and merits Gevin at ….. the twentie fourth day of July Ane thousand sex hundreth and fourtie sex yeires." (Signed), " Montrose." Transumpt in the Collections of MacGregor of Balhaldies.

"1647. August 13th.

"Sasine, John Gregorie, in the lands and Barony of Frendraught &c., on a Precept of Chancery, dated 30th July preceding, proceeding on a Decreet of the Court of Session dated 20th July, apprising these lands ftom James Viscount of Frendraught, and James Crichtoun, & their Heirs, for a debt of 59,560 merks Scots of principal, by past Interest and liquidate expenses, owing by them to the said John Gregorie, and for the sum of 2,978 merks money 'predicte Vicecomitie feodi ejusdem correspondem.' "-Particular Register of Sasines, Aberdeen, vol. xjii.

"1648. February 17th.

"Act anent Gregor McGregor.

"The Committee of Estates ordaines the Laird of Buchanan to delyver Gregor McGregor and his adherents prisoners within the hous of Buchanan to the Laird of Ardkinlass or to the Commander in Chiefe of the regiment upone the place; And ordaines the Officeris To send thame in speedilie and saiflie to Edinburgh That course may be taken with thame according to Justice."-Record of the Committee of Estates.

"May 16th.

"The Committee (of Estates) doe seriously Recommend to the Collonells and Comittees of Warre of the schyre of Perth to grant Sir Robert Campbell of Glenvrquhy, John Campbell fear theirof, Colonell James Campbell of Lawers, Alexander Menzies of Comries and James Campbell of Clathik such ease in the present leveyes as thair Lands quhilk have bene destroyed ther yeires bygane, be not now Layed waist be want of tennents." -Record of Committee of Estates.

"May 19th.

"The Commitee of estaites Declaires that efter the last of this moneth They will no longer intertaine the garisons of nynescoir men quhilk ar within Glenorquhy, Lawers and the Laird of Weemes bounds And ordains the sojours that ar now [page 105] in anie of these garisons to repair furthwith to thair Regiment with thair armes and stay with thair Regiment As they will be answerable.

"June 7th.

"Complaint Sir John Haldane of Glennageis knyt against Allaster Comrie in Morell, Duncan roy Drummond in Dundurren, Patrik Mceane drummond there, Duncan Drummond son to Patrick, James Dow in Glenlichen, Duncan roy Mcphatrick Vccondochie there &c. for sheep stealing." -Record of Justiciary.

"July 11th.

"Jon Mcpatrik alias Mcgregour in … declared a fugitive for breaking up the gates and doors of Rothie, or Rotheis, pertaining to Mr Wm. Leslie of Aikmotie (?) in September 1645."-Record of Justiciary.

“August 1st.

"Petition to the Privy Council of Scotland.

"May it please your Lordships Being informed that Ruitmaster Carmichaell and McGregor did about a month sine cruellie murder and kill James Agnew And being petitioned in behalfe of the freinds of the gentleman that is killed we could not not in regaird of the notorietie and atrocitie of the act interpose for justice to the petitioners And doe thairfore desyre your Grace may be pleased to send the said Ruitmaster Carmichaell and ….. McGregor with a sufficient guard to this toune that tryall may be tane and accordinglie justice done Wee are the more earnest heirin that the Land may be purged of blood and the armie purged of such as ly vnder the great scandalls of blood guiltnes Wee ar Your lordships’ most affectionat freinds subscribitur Crawfurd, Lindsay, Rothes, Tullibairdine, Southeik, Dalhousie, Lanerick, Cardros, Cochrane, Hamilton, St. Letcher, J. Garthland, P. Cokburne, Johne Vdny, Edward Edgar, Johne Myle, Robert Arnot, Mr Jo. Cowan." -Record of the Committee of Estates.

“1649. January 30th. King Charles I. was put to death in London.

[1] The modern Fort Augustus. It was commonly called Killiwhemen.

[2] Memoirs of Montroas," 1639-1650, by George Wishart, edition by Rev. Alexander Murdoch, F. S. A., Canon of St Mary's Cathedral, and H. F. Morland Simpson, 1893.

[3] This account is abridged from Browne’s "Highlanders."

[4] Deeds of Montrose.

[5] From History of the Troubles of Great Britain, Account of remarkable passages in Scot¬land, 1633 to 1650, and Montrose's Battles. Written in French by Robert Monteth of Salmonet. Translation by Captain James Ogilvie, printed by the Bannatyne Club.

[6] Deeds of Montrose

[7] John Muidertach, as he was styled popularly, who signed the Bond for, King Charles I., as "John M'Orronald of Island Tirrem." See page 92.

[8] 1626 was the actual year