Genealogical memoir of the most noble and ancient house of Drummond

sict.vi. Of James Drummond, 2 d Duke of Perth. 163
flames of rebellion were actually kindled. Disgusted
with the court, the earl of Marr had retired to the
north, and assembling the Highland chieftains, had pro-
claimed the Pretender, and erected his standard, on the
11"> September 1715. To second these attempts, offi-
cers, ammunition, and arms arrived from France, and
the earl, assuming the title of lieutenant-general of his
majesty's forces, soon found himself at the heatf of
10,000 men. Attachment to the son of their ancient
sovereign revived in the bosom of the Scottish clans,
and animated by the zeal of their ancient chiefs, they
crowded around the uplifted banners. The marquis of
Drummond joined the insurrection. Possessed of ex-
tensive domains, connected with many of the most con-
siderable of the chieftains, and already experienced in
the art of war, his concurrence and support gave in-
fluence, importance, and energy to the cause. When
the earl advanced through Strathearn, he joined him
with his numerous troops, and at the battle of Sheriff-
muir beside Dunblane, signalized himself by his gallant
behaviour and military bravery. That battle, though
the victory was claimed by neither side, decided the fate
of James. The earl returned immediately to Perth,
and waited the arrival of the prince. James at length
actually landed with six gentlemen only in his train.
Attended by the earl and his friends, in royal state he
entered Dundee and Perth, and soon after was publicly
crowned at Scoon. In these unavailing shows, he spent
a considerable time : and not venturing to face the ap-
proaching army of the king, he retreated to Dundee,
and from thence to Montrose. He was there closely
pursued by the king's troops, and judging it advisable
to relinquish the cause, he went on board a vessel, and.