Life and diary of Lieut. Col. J. Blackader

CHAP. XV. CAMPAIGN EIGHTH. 353
tained a great victory. — It has not been a cheap battle
to the army, especially the Dutch foot, who have suf-
fered much. We attacked them in strong intrench-
ments. The most that we suffered was by their can-
non. Our loss is considerable, but the greatest is
poor Colonel Cranston. He was killed by a cannon-
ball, (sitting at the head of the regiment,) shot in at
the left breast, and out at the back : He spoke not a
word. Captain Shaw also is killed, his thigh-bone
being broken ; and also Ensign Inglis. You will have
heard that Captain Lawson, and Lieutenant Simpson
were wounded two days ago at another cannonading,
when we came up first to this camp ; for our regi-
ment happened to be posted in a place which was most
exposed to their cannon of any in the army. Lawson's
is very slight. It is a contusion on the chin, but no
bones broken. Simpson's is in the body, but not dan-
gerous.
Ensign Burnet also got a more dangerous wound
in the neck, which I am afraid of; and Lieutenant
Cockburn is shot through the body. Sergeant Wil-
son is wounded in the arm. I have three men killed.
We buried the Colonel, Captain Shaw and Inglis
yesternight at the colours. It is put upon you to pre-
pare Mrs. Cranston, and to give her the doleful news.
Every body sympathises tenderly with her, and none,
I am sure, more than myself. None is more univer-
sally regretted than he.
My dearest, what reason have we to adore the di-
vine goodness who puts such songs of praise in our
mouths, while others are employed in mournful lamen-
tations and sorrow. Go as soon to her as you can,
for she will be suspicious at not getting a letter with
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