Life and diary of Lieut. Col. J. Blackader

28 LIFE OF COL. BLACKADER. CHAP. I.
those passions of envy, hatred, and ambition that
make them unlawful ; by rendering men just, merci-
ful, and peaceable ; by inspiring them with that bene-
volence and philanthropy which is the distinguishing
badge of Christian fellowship. But unfortunately,
men do not yield themselves up to its dominion, nor
allow its benign influence to predominate and take the
lead in their affections. And so long as human na-
ture is constituted in its present form, to expect the
universal reign of peace and good-will, were to in-
dulge a chimerical hope, a millennial dream, that will
never be realized. Thus, while Christianity con-
demns decidedly unjust aggressions and unnecessary
bloodshed ; while it recommends strongly to keep the
unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, it inculcates,
at the same time, energy and activity when the coun-
try requires the aid of defensive arms. Such being
the case, every patriotic citizen will feel it his duty to
make his private inclinations give way to the general
interest. These were evidently the views and feelings
which Colonel Blackader entertained upon the subject,
and which alone could have reconciled him to an oc-
cupation to which he was naturally disinclined.
Previously to his entering the army, two of his
brothers, especially the eldest, had made themselves
rather conspicuous by the active share they had taken
in public affairs, and it is probable, had not the power
of the Council been disarmed by the Revolution, the
whole family might have felt the effects of their ven-
gence. * Dr Blackader was much in the confidence
of the leading characters, both in Scotland and Hol-
* Balcarras' Memoirs, p, 20.