THE DUKE OF PERTH.
Nairne's Athole men came next, and were followed by other fine
Highland regiments, respectively commanded by General Gordon of
Glenbucket, Lord Ogilvy of Strathmore, and Roy Stuart. Each regiment
had two captains, two lieutenants, and two ensigns.
Next came a troop of light cavalry, under the command of Lord
Balmerino; and then followed Lord Kilmarnock's hussars with the
baggage and artillery.
The train of artillery consisted of sixteen field-pieces, two waggons
laden with powder, and a great number of sumpter-horses.
This division of the Highland army was commanded by the Duke of Perth,
whose presence excited general admiration.
Both the Duke and his aide-de-camp, who rode beside him, were
remarkably well mounted, and both perfect horsemen.
Among the many Scottish nobles who had determined to share the
fortunes of Prince Charles Edward, none could compare in personal
appearance and deportment with James Lord Drummond, third titular Duke
of Perth. The duke's courtesy, refined manners, and unfailing good
temper, rendered him popular with all. Though not so thorough a
soldier as Lord George Murray, he was equally brave, and in brilliant
qualities far surpassed him.
Between these two distinguished personages a great rivalry existed. No
member of the council possessed so much influence with the prince as
the Duke of Perth, and the favour shown his rival often caused great
umbrage to Lord George Murray, who did not care to conceal his
resentment.
The duke had warm friends in Secretary Murray and Sir Thomas Sheridan,
so that his position as first favourite was unassailable, certainly by
Lord George.
The duke, who was in the very prime of manhood, being only just turned
thirty, was grandson of the Earl of Perth, created duke by James the
Second on his retirement to France.
Nothing could be more striking than the effect produced by these clan
regiments as they marched through Salford on that morning, the
different hues of the plaids worn by each corps giving variety and
colour to the picture, while the sinewy frames, fierce countenances,
and active movements of the men inspired a certain feeling akin to
fear among the beholders, which the war-like notes of the bagpipe did
not tend to diminish.
The front ranks of each regiment were composed of gentlemen, whose
arms and equipments were superior to those of the others, causing them
to look like officers; but they had no rank. All the men were in good
spirits, and seemed as if victory lay before them.
Regiment after regiment marched over the bridge, with the sun shining
brightly on their picturesque dresses, and glittering on their
firelocks and arms--with their colours and pipes playing--bells
pealing, and spectators shouting loudly, producing a most
extraordinarily animating effect.
Scarcely less striking was it as the Highlanders marched through the
town and drew up in St. Ann's Square.
Completely filled by these clan regiments, the large area presented a
picture such as it has never since exhibited.
But a scene of a very different kind was being enacted at the same
time. While these armed men were gathering in front of the church, a
sad ceremonial took place in the churchyard.
A grave had been opened to receive the remains of a respected
inhabitant of the town, and the last rites were then being performed
by Mr. Lewthwaite, who proceeded as calmly as circumstances would
permit.
But other mourners than those expected gathered round the grave as the
coffin was lowered into it--Highland officers bare-headed, and
noticeable for their respectful demeanour.
The Highland regiments did not remain long in St. Ann's Square. Having
received their billets, the men were taken to their lodgings by the
quarter-masters. The artillery and baggage-waggons proceeded to Castle
Field, where a park was formed, and strongly guarded.