Genealogical memoir of the most noble and ancient house of Drummond

138 Genealogical Memoir sect. v.
the directious and dying words of eminent dying persons
have, for the same reason, been transmitted to the suc-
ceeding ages, not only for eternizing the memory of the
author, if it were possible, and the gracing of their name ;
but also that posterity might learn whom to imitate and
follow in the like ease, and in all virtuous and religious
behaviour : for albeit this present age inclinefh to vice
and partial dealing, yet it is not so destitute of discretion
and goodness, but that notable examples are to be found
for our instruction, if we could make right use of the
same, even flowing from some of our dearest friends,
whose worth can never sufficiently be recorded, nor ad-
mired enough, either by the beholders, or such as were
acquainted with them by the reports of others : and al-
-belt a learned eloquence were most requisite for -such a
relation, yet the simple and naked truth needs little orna-
ment from fine language, being sufficient to insinuate it-
self into the hearts of upright and understanding per-*
sons.
The year of our Lord 1656 began with a total eclipse
of the moon, and upon the l6'h of the first month there-
of, happened a so a notable darkness of the sun, be-
twixt which two it pleased God to visit this afflicted
family, by calling to himself the Lady Anne Gordon,
Lady Drummond, eldest lawful daughter of George,, late
marquis of Huntly, whose worth can never be sufficient-
ly expressed. She was always most religiously disposed,
of a solid, strong wit, discreet to all who had the happi-
ness of her acquaintance ; a lady, chaste, i inuous, fore-
seeing, temperate, of a most excellent behaviour, and
comely carriage, without pride or vanity. In a word,
no grace nor virtue was wanting in her, whereof any