Sutherland and the Reay country

HISTORY. 73
to Ireland, where he acquired further renown as an able and
brave officer. As was natural, the Mackays flocked to his
standard. Five hundred of their best men took the field
during this period, the Earl of Sutherland furnished some
men likewise, as also the Munros and Grants. Among the
Mackays who held commissions under him were his brother
James, killed at Killiecrankie, George and Robert, sons of
Lord Reay, and his own nephews, Captains William Mackay,
Kinloch, and Hugh Mackay, Borley.
The next occasion on which the Sutherland men and
Mackays rendered service to the Government was during the
rebellion of 17 15. Many in Caithness favoured the
Pretender, but John, Earl of Sutherland, and George, Lord
Reay, were faithful to the house of Hanover. Sutherland
was in England when the rebellion broke out, but he sailed
north with all speed, directing arms and ammunition to be
sent after him. This was done, but the rebels intercepted
the vessel at Burntisland. Assisted by Lord Reay and
others, Sutherland pushed on towards Inverness, where he
was joined by Lovat, who deserted the Pretender. They
numbered about 1800 in all. Seaforth's army was, however,
4000 strong, and the Earl of Sutherland judged it hazardous
to try issues with him with such a small and not well-equipped
force. Retiring northwards before Seaforth he accom-
plished his object without striking a blow, which object was
to prevent the junction of the forces of Seaforth with the
Earl of Mar. Before this was accomplished the Duke of
Argyle engaged with Mar at Sheriffmuir. Seaforth was too
late to be of assistance, so he turned northwards to attack
the Earl of Sutherland. The latter hearing this marched at
the head of 800 men, including Mackays, Grants, and