Life and diary of Lieut. Col. J. Blackader

CHAP. XIX. REBELLION IN SCOTLAND. 473
November 24. Hearing that the old regiment I was
in has suffered much, and that the officer who suc-
ceeded me is wounded.
This was at the battle of Preston in Lancashire,
where the Cameronian Regiment, which had been
recalled from Ireland, behaved with great gallantry.
More than half of the killed and wounded was sus-
tained by this regiment alone. Their Lieutenant-
Colonel, Lord Forrester, Major Lawson, and several
others were wounded.
November 28. Rode out this morning convoying
the Duke of Roxburgh on his way. I was very sorry
to part. I have hardly known any man with finer
qualities, more sweetness of temper, meekness, probity,
and integrity, which I most admire and am most
charmed with. I am glad of this opportunity I have
had of knowing him, and enjoying his friendship,
which I do very much value. At night with honour-
able company, and very diverting, perhaps too much
mirth. There should always be a check, for the mind
grows vain and light by too much jollity, and loses its
sober, spiritual sett.
November 30. This day riding out and convoying
away the Earl of Haddington. The guests I have
had here have much enlarged my heart, there has
been so much good humour, easiness, and I hope in-
nocence.
December 13. Went out in the morning with the
Duke and the Generals to view the field of battle. It
is folly to lay the blame upon each other, right wing
or left wing. Time and chance happen to all. They
who fled would likely on another occasion have be-
haved well and done their duty : and those who stood
y 3