Life and diary of Lieut. Col. J. Blackader

452 LIFE OF COL. BLACKADER. CHAP. XVIII.
the magistrates and officers of the regiment here. We
were very cheerful, and good reason have we. We
may see the moderation and lenity of a just and good
government. Those who have been the greatest ene-
mies to it are protected, and may appear in as great
security as its best friends. But if a Pretender had
come in, I doubt not but the country had become a
field of blood ; persecutors again triumphing, and glut-
ting themselves with the blood of their countrymen ;
malice and vice again high in place, and good men
hiding themselves. But the Lord be praised the snare
is broken, and our soul has escaped as a bird out of
the snare.
September 27. The gentlemen here met to address
the King ; disputes among them. Lord, direct me and
my friends here, to carry and countenance the right
side, who stand for liberty and religion against those
who value neither.
October 20. Hearing a good sermon on this occa-
sion (the coronation.) Thankful frame for the great
things God has done for us : That he has broken the
yoke of tyranny, popery, and slavery that was pre-
paring for us by wretched men that have no regard
to the security of our religion or liberty. Blessed be
God who has turned their counsels into foolishness,
and made their designs of no effect. Going in the
afternoon to assist at the solemnity. This is a day of
much joy and mirth through Britain, and it is to be
feared of much sin also. Drunkenness is an ordinary
sin on such occasions. I bless God who keeps me
free from these temptations.
December 25. Christmas-day. I see much of a
party spirit here in Scotland ; a great heat in the head