Historical and authentic account of the ancient and noble family of Keith, Earls Marichal of Scotland

91
Mr. Keith finding his health in a very
broken state, went to France, in hopes uff get-
ting 1 it there re-established. There is sir mud
to believe that he was also charged with the
management of some affairs of state, relat ve
to the war betwixt Sweden and Russia, which
was then in agitation. So far is certain, that
he had orders how soon his strength permit-
ted, to repair to England in apublic character,
to manage some affairs of great moment. He
arrived at London in February 174-0, and, on
the 15th of that month, was presented to his
Majesty, who received him very graciously.
He was no longer viewed in the light of a
Preston rebel : He was received as a great
general, and as the minister of a great power.
On his part he declared th>it he acknowledged
George II. for his lawful sovereign, and rhe
succession in the house of of Hanover as the
only legal establishment. The 14th of May,
he had his audience of leave; but continued
some time longer at London.
During these transactions, the peace was
concluded betwixt Russia and the Port, and
celebrated at Petersbu rg, the 25th o\ Febru-
ary, with the greatest festivity. The Empress
made considerable presents to all flieg: e;it offi-
cers, who distinguished themselves during the
war, and Mr. Keith, though absent, was not
forgotten. He received a gold-hilted sword
valued at 6000 rubes, [^1500 sterling.]
l\.t Jus services were not thought sufficiently
I *