Ancestry of Ian & Cath Jeanneret
MACGREGOR, Major Evan Murray Lieutenant
1714 - 1778 (64 years)
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Name MACGREGOR, Evan Murray [1, 2] Title Major Suffix Lieutenant Born 1714 Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland 
[1] Gender Male Died 29 Oct 1778 Jersey, Channel Islands [1, 3] Person ID I10862 My Genealogy Last Modified 16 Sep 2023
Father MACGREGOR, Iain Og (John) (Murray) 1st of Glencarnoch 5th Chief of Children of the Mist, b. 1668, Glencarnoch, Balquhidder, Perth, Scotland , d. 18 Sep 1744, Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland (Age 76 years) Relationship natural Mother CAMPBELL, Catherine, b. 1674, Leix, Argyle, Scotland , d. 14 May 1774, Scotland (Age 100 years) Relationship natural Married Abt 1697 Glencarnoch, Balquhidder, Perth, Scotland Family ID F2024 Group Sheet | Family Chart
Family MACDONALD, Janet, b. Bef 1707, Scotland , d. 15 Feb 1793 (Age > 86 years) Married 10 Jan 1744 [4] Children 1. MURRAY, Sir John (MACGREGOR) 18th Chief of Clan Gregor 1st Baronet, b. 10 Apr 1745, Lanrick, Scotland , d. 28 Jun 1822, Scotland (Age 77 years) [natural]2. MACGREGOR, Alexander Murray (Colonel of the Royal Clan-Alpin Fencibles), b. 25 Aug 1746, Napier Ruskie, Lanrick, Scotland , d. 21 Jul 1822, Edinburgh, Midlothian, Scotland (Age 75 years) [natural]3. MACGREGOR (MURRAY), Peggy, b. Abt 1747, Scotland [natural]4. MACGREGOR (MURRAY), Alicia, b. 1 Aug 1750, Inverlochlanrigbeg, Balquidder Parish, Perthshire, Scotland , d. Abt 1765, London, England (Age 14 years) [natural]5. MACGREGOR MURRAY, Col. Peter (Col. East India Co. & General of the Bengal army), b. 25 May 1751, Scotland , d. India [natural]6. MACGREGOR MURRAY, Robert (Lieutenant-Colonel of the Clan-Alpin fencibles), b. 28 May 1753, Killin, Perthshire, Scotland [natural]7. MACGREGOR (MURRAY), James, d. 1783 [natural] Last Modified 16 Sep 2023 Family ID F2909 Group Sheet | Family Chart
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Notes - Excerpt from thepeerage.com
Evan MacGregor1
M, #504163, b. circa 1715, d. 29 October 1778
Evan MacGregor was born circa 1715.2 He was the son of John MacGregor of Glencarnoch in Balquhidder and Catherine Campbell.2 He married Janet Macdonald, daughter of John Macdonald, 1st of Balconie.1 He died on 29 October 1778.2
He was also known as Evan Murray.1 He fought in the Jacobite Uprising in 1745.2 He gained the rank of Jacobite Major in 1745, and Aide-de-Camp to Bonnie Prince Charlie.1 He fought in the Battle of Prestonpans, where he fired the first shot against Sir John Cope's army and distinguished himself, the Prince presenting him with a dirk (worn by subsequent Chiefs.)1 He gained the rank of Lieutenant in the 88th Highlanders.1 He fought in the Seven Years War.2
Children of Evan MacGregor and Janet Macdonald
1 Colonel Peter MacGregor2
2 Lt.-Col. Robert MacGregor+2
3 Sir John Murray MacGregor of Mac Gregor, 1st Bt.+2 b. 10 Apr 1745, d. 28 Jun 1822
4 Colonel Alexander MacGregor+2 b. 25 Aug 1746
Citations
1 [S37] BP2003 volume 2, page 2492. See link for full details for this source. Hereinafter cited as. [S37]
2 [S37] BP2003. [S37]
EXCERPT FROM “HISTORY OF CLAN GREGOR BY AMELIA GEORGIANA MURRAY MACGREGOR”
Commission from Prince Charles to Evan MacGregor, Younger Brother of Glencarnock, 1745.
"Charles Prince of Wales &c. Regent of Scotland, England, France and Ireland and the Dominions thereunto belonging To Evan MacGregor Brother to Robert MacGregor of Glencarnok, Greeting. We Reposing special Trust and (two lines missing from the Document, they must have carried out the same form as the preceding) as such, from the date hereof. You are therefor carefully and Diligently to Discharge the duty and trust of a Major aforesaid by doing and performing everything, which belongs thereto. And We hereby require all and every the Officers and Soldiers of Our forces, to observe, and obey you as a Major.
This warrant, from the Original at Edinchip, is also printed in the Atholl and Tullibardine Chronicles.
And yourself to observe and follow all such Orders, Directions and Commands, as you shall from time to time receive from us, Our Commander-in-Chief for the time being or any other your Superior Officer According to the Rules and Discipline of War. In pursuance of the trust hereby reposed in you Given at our Palace of Holyroodhouse the 29"" day of October 1745. C. P. R.
The next five Commission and letters relating to Glengyle are copies in a manuscript formerly in the possession of Colonel Hugh MacGregor sometime in the 91st Regt.
Commission to Glengyle from Prince Charles.
Charles P. R.
"Charles Prince of Wales and Regent of Scotland, England, France and Ireland and the Dominions thereunto belonging, to our Trusty and well beloved Gregor MacGregor Esq”. We reposing especial trust and Confidence in your Loyalty, Ability, Courage and good Conduct do hereby constitute and appoint you to be Colonel and Commandant of the Fortress of Down, Cardross, and Balinton, and to take your Rank as Colonel in the Army from the date hereof, you are carefully & diligently to discharge the duty and trust hereby committed to your care and to perform everything which belongs thereto in as full and ample a manner as any Commandant of any Fort or Castle in Scotland is vested with, and you are to follow such orders, directions and Commands as you shall from time to time receive from us, our Commander in Chief or any of our Generals, or any such Orders as you shall receive from our Secretary's Office.
Given at our Palace of Holyrood House the 15th day of October 1745
"By his Highnesses Command Jo Murray."
Letter from Viscount of Strathallan addressed to the "Laird of Glen Gyll."
Perth, Oct. 23, 1745. — Sir, — I received your letter of this date and am glad His Royal Highness has made choice of you for the Government of Down. It will be abundantly necessary to have a constant eye on Stirling Castle that no parties or strollers come abroad unobserved, and to be upon your guard against people disguised in the Highland dress and white Cockades, if you hear of any such having past you by stolen marches, it will be proper to send immediately intelligence. I have nothing further to recommend, but that you would endeavour to reinforce your Garrison as much as possible, as you Command a post of great consequence, our close Correspondence will be absolutely necessary, and I am Sir &c
"Strathallan."
Lord Strathallan had been appointed Governor at Perth early in October. — Ed.
1746 Letters to Glengyle 379
Letter from Colonel Henry Kerr to the same.
"Alloaye, 26 Oct. 1745. — Sir, — His Royal Highness sent me here to secure the pass for his Grace the Duke of Atholl and his convoy and if his Grace should be obliged to pass this way its desired that in case you cannot get boats sufficient to transport them, that you will cause build a Bridge to facilitate their passage and it is apprehended the Men-of-War and armed boats in the Firth will endeavour to interrupt the passage here, It is not to be doubted but that there will be an attempt from Stirling Castle to cover their designs, for which you will use your best endeavour to keep them in, by drawing some of your troops that way in order to make a diversion. If anything happens here, you shall be acquainted with it and its hoped that you will communicate anything worth notice to Sir &c
"Hn Kerr."
Order by His Grace the Duke of Perth Lieut. General of the Forces of His Royal Highness Charles Prince of Wales.
"These are desiring you to send thirty men and an officer three or four miles south of the ford of Frews as an escort to Allen Cameron who goes with dispatches of importance for His Royal Highness.
"Given at Drummond the 30th Dec. 1745 years. Do it immediately upon your arrival at Down."
Letter from Secretary Murray to Colonel MacGregor of Glengyle or Commander of Down.
"Bannockburn, Jan. 9, 1746. — Sir, — In consequence of certain intelligence His Royal Highness has received, that the enemy have sent a considerable body of troops aboard ships now seen in the river to seize the cannon at Alloa, orders are sent to Dunblain to send a large detachment to reinforce the troops there and it is likewise thought necessary that you send what troops you can spare from your garrison you are likewise desired to take care to apprehend any deserters that may pass. If your people make haste they may be all at Alloa before the tide. I am &c
Jo. Murray
Original Commission, somewhat tattered, with the Prince's Seal.
"Charles P. R. Charles Prince of Wales Regent of Scotland, England France and Ireland, and the Dominions thereunto belonging;
To John MacGregor (designation illegible). Greeting. We Reposing special Trust and confidence in your Courage Loyalty and good conduct Do hereby Constitute and appoint you to be a Lieutenant Colonel of his Majesty's Forces in the Regiment of Commanded by and to take your Rank in the Army as such from the date hereof. You are therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the duty and trust of Lieut. Colonel aforesaid by doing and performing everything which belong thereto, And we hereby require all and every the officers and soldiers of our forces to observe and obey you as a Lieut. Colonel and yourself to observe and follow all such orders and direction as you shall from time to time receive from us, our Commander in Chief if for the time being or any other your superior Officer, according to the rules and discipline of War in pursuance of the Trust hereby reposed in you.
Given at Carlisle the twenty-first day of Nov. 1745. C. P. R."
The above Commission is designed for Mr MacGregor in Mailler More Glenartney for the present Capt. Commandant in Crieff.
This John MacGregor was MacGregor or Drummond, Balnacuil, his parentage has not yet been traced, but he left a son, Alexander MacGregor, at Loch Catherine side, whose daughter, Henrietta, was the second wife of James X of Glengyle.
It is unnecessary here to dwell on the Battle of Culloden, 16th April, 1746, and on the cruelties which followed it. The Prince's wanderings in the Western Highlands and the faithful loyalty of the Highlanders in whom he trusted are safe to be remembered with admiration and interest by friend and foe. With the departure of Prince Charles from Lochannaugh on Sept. 20th, 1746, for France, the short lived Romance came to an end.
Many of his Chief adherents were executed and others driven into exile.
The following quotations are from the " Scots Magazine."
"About the middle of Nov. 1745 the London Newspapers contained the following list of the Army of Prince Charles Edward.
Regiments Colonels Men
Locheil Cameron of Locheil 740
Appin Stewart of Ardsheil 360
Athol Lord George Murray 1000
Clanronald ClanRonald of ClanRonald jun' 200
Keppoch MacDonald of Keppoch 400
Glencoe MacDonald of Glencoe 200
Ogilvie Lord Ogilvie 500
Glenbucket Gordon of Glenbucket 427
Perth Duke of Perth, Pitsligo's Foot 750
Robertson Robertson of Struan 200
MacLachlan MacLachlan of MacLachlan 260
Glencarnich MacGregor 300
Glengarry MacDonald of Glengarry Jun 300
Nairn Lord Nairn 200
Edinburgh John Roy Stewart & Lord Kellys 450
In several Small corps
Horse Lord Elcho
Lord Kilmarnoch 160
Lord Pitsligo's Horse 140
Total 7587
— From the "Scots Magazine" for Nov. 1745.
“1746. January. After the troops that guarded the Fords of Forth had moved to Edinburgh, Glengyle with the help of floats, the boats having been all destroyed, passed the river at the Frew and placed a guard on the South side, London Gazette." — See "Scots Magazine" for Jan. 1746.
" About the end of May 1746 Glengyle with a party of MacGregors were in the hill between Crieff and Dunkeld, and attempted to levy public money But they were obliged to make off upon Brigadier Mordaunt's detaching 300 men in quest of them.
"June 7. A body of 700 men entered Balquhidder, and proceeded to the Braes of Monteith. But not finding Glengyle and his party they burned his house and all the houses in Craigrostan possessed by the MacGregors, and carried the Cattle to Crieff." — " Scots Magazine."
The following particulars as to the conduct of Gregor Murray of Coinneachan and the conflicting directions he received from the two Dukes are interesting.
"1745. In August Duke James had sent orders to Gregor Murray at Coinneachan to raise the Glen Almond men and join Cope as he passed which he accordingly did at Amulrie. When the army reached Tay Bridge Gregor and his men left and proceeded to Blair to get further orders from Graham of Fintry the factor. He accompanied them back to the army which they rejoined at Dalnacardoch; but as Cope would allow them no pay with which to support themselves, they dispersed there and returned to their homes."
Atholl and Tullibardine Chronicles.
During the Prince's stay at Blair Castle which was from Aug. 31 to Sep. 3, Duke William sent the following orders to Glen Almond.
Duke William to Gregor Murray of Fogfield (Coinneachan).
"Camp at Blair zd Sep. 1745. — This to Impower you and authorize you Gregor Murray of fogfield upon sight hereof to raise for his Majesty's use my Tennents and Wadsetters of Glen Almond, which I desire & require you may do with all expedition and dispatch, to join the array under his Royall Highness's command friday next at Perth, or wherever the Royall Standard may be for the time, and this you are to perform with all diligence and care as you shall be answerable." (Signed) "Atholl."
Elizabeth Campbell to Gregor Murray of Conneachan.
"Milne Rodge, Sep. 17, 1745. — Sr, My husband has bin this fiftin days in search of siven cous that was stolen out of the Bres of Lioeyn, and he has got two of them, and is gone a gene in sherch of the rest, and if his sone would return to his busines hie wold be satisfied to get a man a five pounds, but he is shure that his Grass the Duke of Atholl yould not desire his son and monye tou, but if Mungo be determined to go and wants his father's faver, hie will sie to get his indenters discharged from his master, which will be easier to be had nou then after, which if hie dous not get whill the Hillandmen is in town it will return on his father and afterwards be his oun los, and my frind lives this to your care, and wei live him to be directed by God and his oun mind, for I should be sorey if hie shou'd due ane thing that shou'd be for his oun los. this withe my serves to your self and Mungo. and I ever am your humbell Serv ; " (Signed) " Elizabeth Campbell."
This letter was taken amongst Gregor's papers Feb. 1746, as also the following orders.
By William Duke of Atholl, Commander in Chief of his Majestie's Forces benorth the River of Forth.
"These are requiring and ordering you to raise a man on the Merk Land of our property of Glen Almond, and to march with them to this place so as you and they may be here friday next the 27 currt as you shall answer upon your and their peril. Atholl.
"Signed at Blair Castle, Sep. 25. 1745.
"To Grigor Murray of Coinneachan.
Order from Duke William to the same.
“Being just noe necessarily detained in these parts about affairs of consequence and desiring much to have the pleasure of seeing the Laird of Monzie who I cannot wait upon where he is, these are requiring you to acquaint him of it, and at the same time let him know that you are positively ordered without losing a moment's time as its necessary for the King and Country's service, to tell him that He must directly come along with you to this place or wherever I may be at the time.
"Therfor, as you'l be answerable, neglect not in the safest, speediest and most convenient manner, to wait on and conduct the above Laird of Monzie to our quarters. For the punctual executions of which this shall be to you and all concerned a sufficient warrant. Given under our hand and seall at our Castle of Blair,
the second day of Oct. 1745." (Signed) " Atholl."
John MacGregor to Gregor MacGregor or Murray of Coinneachan.
"Coynachan, 3d Oct. 1745. — Dear Sir, — I came here last night in order to have concerted with you and our friend James MacGregor of Balnachoille the proper means of drawing our Clan into a body, so that they may be entitled to all the benefites and priviledges that His Majesty and his Royal Highness designs for the other Clans.
"They are to be henceforth the onely standing troops of the nation; every Chief is to have a Colonel's commesseon, and all the other officers and souldiers to be just upon the same Regulations and to have the same pay as our Regular Troops commonly have, with this difference that the clans are not to ster from home except on muster days, and when the Service of the Crown makes it necessary.
"Now if the McGregors continue dispersed as they are they can expect no more than to be a nameless people.
"My Brother has been carefull to inform the Prince of the misfortunes, sufferings, loyalty, and Bravery of the MacGregors, and he has Interest enough with his Majesty and Royal Highness to raise onr Clan to yr ancient wealth, power, and reputation. I therefore beg that you be pleased to Raise as many of the name, without respect to particular families as possibly you can, wherever you discover them and to march them to the Army in what manner you please.
"Give them as much time to take care of their harvest as the circumstances of affairs will allow. But so as to be with us before His Royall Highness leaves Edin""' I am Dear Sir, Yours most affectionately John MacGregore.
In a footnote the Duke of Atholl adds, "The writer was probably Balhaldie's second brother." This is possible from the allusion to the writer's brother having influence with the Prince.
Neil MacGlashan to Gregor Murray.
"Blair Castle, Oct. 7, 1745. — Dr Grigor, — His Grace orders that you, with the whole Glenalmond men 'twixt sixteen and sixty, officer as well as others, be att Dunkeld tomorrow night or early Wednesday, except John Drummond in Newtoun who is allowed to remain at home for certain reasons, unless you have it in view to execute the orders you got from his Grace in a day or two in which case you are to
wait, but otherwayes you, nor the men are not.
"He's to march from this place to-morrow morning.
"Till meeting I add no more but that I am ever yrs N. McGlashan."
William Duke of Atholl &c under the Prince Regent Commander-in-Chief of his Majestie's Forces.
"These are ordering and requiring you upon sight hereof to seize the horses and arms of disaffected persons or others who have not joined his Royal Highness's Standard, wherever they can be found. For which this shall be to you and all concerned a sufficient warrant.
" Given at Perth the twenty first day of Oct. 1745. Atholl
" To Grigor Murray in Coynachan and party."
Viscount Strathallan to Gregor Murray.
"Machany, Oct. 31, 1745. — Gregor Murray, — You are hereby ordered to make all the heast possible with what men you can bring, in to Perth this night, where I am goeiug with assistance of all I can. The bearer will give the reason of it.
"Strathallan."
Footnote by the Duke of Atholl.
"The reason for the above order was that on Oct. 30 being King George's birthday a mob of persons rang the bells and lighted bonfires in Perth, and besieged Oliphant of Gask in the Council House till 8 a.m 31. he being Deputy Governor in charge of the City during Lord Strathallan's absence. In response to his Lordship, 90 of Lord Nairne's men, over 60 of Logiealmond's and Gregor Murray with 17 Glenalmond men, proceeded to Perth and secured the peace of the town."
Colonel Robertson of Drumachine to Gregor Murray at Coinneachan.
"Logierait, Nov. 23, 1745. — Sir, — Some days ago I had a letter from Lord Strathallan desiring to acquaint you per express to repair to Perth immediately with as many men as you could get together ; but the storm was so high I could find none to undertake the journey before this day. I hope you will lose no time in performing this ; but in the meantime that you are raising the men.
"I think you should send express to Perth to know my Lord's further pleasure. I am alwise w' complements to the bonny wife.
"Dear Gregor your most humble servant. D. Robertson."
Duke William to Gregor Murray, Coinneachan.
"Blair Castle, 7 Feb. 1746. — Sir, — Herewith is enclosed a general ' Crosstarie' order for raising all the able bodied men in Glenalmond : this order is executing through all Atholl, with the utmost exactness and expedition; and providing you The "Fiery Cross."
Have a mind to efface the three different times you have forsook me, you'll without loss of time come here, & bring at least 50 good men with you. I am well assured there are arms for that number in the country, so that I shall reckon you greatly wanting in your duty if you do not bring them all armed.
"The bearer being chose out as a trusty expeditious person, this is earnestly requiring you to get all the accounts & intelligence you can of the Enemie's motions, and without loss of time send it to me by this express, which shall ever be remembered to your advantage. After you have made use of the 'Crosstarie' order, if you can find a trusty person, pray send it directly to Donald MacLaren 1 Drover in Balquhidder, as an answer from me to what James Stewart of Clunes heard of his hearty disposition towards our present honest concerns from Touch, dated Jan. 26. It will also be a valuable service rendered our King & country at this critical juncture. If you intend to oblige me at present in earnest, you will no less faithfully than diligently, execute what is here required & justly expected of you by one who shall ever accordingly be found in the most agreeable manner
" Sir your affectionate humble Servant. Atholl."
"To Gr Murray or any other honest man in Glenalmond."
Gregor Murray to Mr Mungo Murray.
"Conachon, Feb. 8, 1746. — Sir, — I received his Gr/s orders and immediately sent an express for the officer, who lives four miles distance from this place, and on his way spoke to so many tennents, for we durst not make use of the Crosstarie for alarming the enemy, for there is above 200 of them laying at Crieff and Monizie, and a trup of horse at Drummond Castle, besides a partie of the Campbells, who comes up the king's road every day for information. By all accounts the enemy who marched to Perth on Thursday last is reckoned to be 12000 men, foot and horse, and I had sertain information this evening that a part of the enimie was to be at Dunkeld this night.
"As our frindes marched through this countray on Munday and Tuesday last, they both plundered and carried off a great many horses, and severals of them is not returned as yet. If the officer and I can gett the men raised we shall come straight to Blair or wherever His Gr/ shall be. I am Sr &c. Gri: Murray.
"P.S. We are every night within four miles of the enemie in the Waster Glen, and the Easter Glen within two miles of them. You may consider what situation we are in. I sent off the express to Ballquhidder just as the berer went from this be four a clock in the morning."
Thursday, 6th Feb., Prince Charles arrived at Blair Castle. Feb. 9, Duke James of Atholl sent out from Perth to summon the Atholl vassals to go to Dunkeld and Kirkmichael to join the troops which were to be sent there to disarm and apprehend " the Rebells." Prince Charles on hearing that Duke James was to be at Dunkeld on the Saturday, and that a large body of the Government troops were passing the West Boat of Dunkeld, retired with his forces from Blair, 10th Feb., to the North. A day or two afterwards Sir Andrew Agnew advanced from Dunkeld and took possession of the Castle.
Feb. 18. The Prince reached Inverness, and on the 20th the Castle of Inverness surrendered to him, H.R.H. having been joined by Lord George Murray and the column which had marched by the East Coast. Lord Loudoun who had been holding the North for the Government retired into Ross-shire on the approach of the Jacobites, and it was in pursuit of Loudoun that Glencarnock was sent off with the MacDonalds, Camerons, &c.
"Feb. 22. Duke James having been informed that 'one Grigor Murray alias MacGrigor, tenant of Conachon, one of the rebel Captains was skulking in Glenalmond sent out a party of his tenants to search for and secure him. Feb. 23 the party returned carrying with them the said Grigor who was committed to the prison of Dunkeld.
"Feb. 26, 1746. Memoriall for Grigor Murray from Glenalmond, present Prisoner in the Tolbooth of Dunkeld.
"That I am confin'd to a house of Prison from a suspition, I understand, of being disaffected to the Government which creates no small pain in me. considering my deportment under the various occurrance and vicciseitudes of the present unhappy Rebellion, and if duely weighted I hope will in some measure account in my vindication. That before this commotion I liv'd a peaceable subject to his Majestie and a faithful! servant or Tennent to his Grace the Duke of Atholl.
"That when this Rebellion was breaking out and growing to some height Generall Cope with an Army coming to Crieff, and on his way to the North to quell the same, I was imploy'd by his Grace to raise his men of Glen Almond and join Generall Cope, which upon the first notice I did with all allacrity and expedition, and joined him at Amulree, the confines of our country, and alongs marched till we came to Tay Bridge, when we seperate and went for Blair to receive orders from Fintray our Factor, who attended us till we rejoined the main Corps twixt Trinafuar and Dalnacairdach.
" In the course of that march wee were severall nights by the way, eacli living upon his own pocket, and wherein this fell short I supplyed till meeting the main body, when I was reduced to a sixpence. I applied Mr Robertson of Trinafuar to bespeak Major Cawfield for money, the Major returned for answer he could doe nothing then. I at length applied Fintry, offering my security, who refusing me, from this necessity the men withdrew and dispersed themselves. In this dispersion, and upon my returning home meeting with Commissary Bissatt I intimated to him the straits I was in and the convencies I mett with, and his advice in caise of ane overturn who very wisely advised me not to cede to the other syde, and gave what carried me home, and this advice I did not altogether reject by the sequell of my conduct, and then I lived quietly and peaceably till attacked by the Brother of the Duke and the Army that came alongs with him to our countrey, who as the Elder
Brother assuming a right to us, made several insinuations and we as many refusalls, at length threatened with Military Execution and Devastation, I to eschew these impendent threatenings, took up arms and witnessed the raising of the men and with reluctancy marched, and all the journey was to Crieff, about two miles from our own country, where wee gradually dispersed. Thereafter orders upon orders came to raise and ralley again, and as often as wee received them, so often did wee at tymes make a show and at other tymes wink att to perafle the tyme ; and severall orders came to me to apprehend Persons of Distinction and doe other th'ward work, tho' I was not in a military commission, which I neglected to doe and look't over and all this stirr of ours happened before Hallowmas last, wee all the tyme after living quietly att home till the army's Return from England. And during their stay att Stirling the Duke of Atholl’s Brother, in his way home, comeing
through our countrey sett us again on foot, and in a march for Perth, where I gave it as advice every man to make way for himself, upon which wee again dispersed and ever since continue peaceably att home. And when his Gr/s orders were issued to bring in all our arms on or before then 24. Feb. current, my Resolution was and can be made appear, I intended to obey that day. But was intercepted by a party on the 22.
"And this is the genuine account of the whole stepts I and the other Tennents of Glenalmond have trode in during this unhappy Rebellion. From which it will appear I acted as far as I could in behalf of the Government syde, amongst the first in Arms of the Highlanders. That what I did on the other syde was not from zeale to the cause. But rather from compulsion and meer force putts, and that it proved only a shew to avoid Devastations and other mischiefs that our country was threatened with.
"It's then hoped from a just consideration of this my conduct, I may be sett att liberty upon Baile or at least a Liberty for eight days, that I may provide my faimly necessarys & seed to the ground."
From the " Scots Magazine " :—
"1746. Sep. 9. James Campbell M'Gregor, Glengyle's Piper, pleaded guilty of having been engaged in the Rebellion 1745 and was executed accordingly. Patrick & Duncan MacGregor, who had surrendered under the Duke of Cumberland's proclamation were acquitted.
"Malcolm Groeme MacGregor was discharged. From his place of residence at the North east of Ben Lomond he was called Galium Comar ; and was soon after active under the direction of Nicol Graham Esq of Gartmore in exterminating Reivers.
"John MacGregor of Perthshire and of Perth's Regiment was executed at York on the 8. Oct. 1746.
"William Drummond of Balhaldie otherwise Bohaldy, Gregor MacGregor otherwise James Graham of Glengyle, Robert Murray of Glencarnock, were with many others excepted from the Act of indemnity, William Drummond's indictment was returned " Ignoramus," Glengyle's a True Bill. No Bill of Indictment had been presented against Glencarnock. On the 18. August Alexander Earl of Kelly,
Alexander Cameron of Dungallon, Alexander MacDonald of Glencoe, John MacDonald of Glengarry and Robert Murray of Glencarnock petitioned the Court of Justiciary praying for letters of intimation to be made to the King's Advocate that they be brought to trial within sixty days or set at liberty. This the Lords granted. After running their letters the petitioners were liberated on the ii. Oct.
From ”Scot Mag" ; They had all lain in Edinburgh Castle since 1746 on suspicion of treason.
Robert Murray or MacGregor of Glencarnaig, who with his brother Evan had been wandering among the hills since April, surrendered to
General Campbell, afterwards Duke of Argyll, on the Sep. 18, 1746, and was imprisoned in the Castle of Edinburgh for three years, i.e. till Oct. 11, 1749. He was uninfluenced by feelings of ambition or of gain. Like many other Highlanders, he embarked in the cause of his hereditary Sovereign because he believed it to be his duty, and although he suffered severely in fortune, his loyalty ennobled the sacrifice.
During Glencarnaig's incarceration, several of the Government officers whom he had befriended when they had been prisoners at Inverness,
wrote strongly in his favour, which letters are here given as showing that he had a kind heart as well as a brave spirit.
Letter from Mr Campbell of Carsaig to Mr John Campbell, Deputy
Chamberlain of Argyle
"Sir, — You'll remember how that I and several other gentlemen of Argyleshire Levies were surprised and taken prisoners last year by the Rebels and were carried to Inverness where we were confined in a mere dungeon. In this situation we continued for some days and we are very certain Robert Murray of Clencarnaig gave himself a great deal of trouble and used his kind endeavours to get us removed to a better prison nor indeed did he rest here but continued to us good offices thereafter, & supplied to my certain knowledge some of us with money.
I know Mr Murray surrendered himself to General Campbell last harvest, and as I now learn that he is called from thence I thought it my duty to let you know this of the gentleman & please return him my grateful acknowledgements for his kind offices. I am Sir &c David Campbell.
"Carsaig 14. Feb 1747."
Letter from Dugald Campbell, Brother to Inveraw to John Campbell Provost of Inverary and which he gave to General Campbell Sep. 17. 1746.
"I always entertained grateful sentiments of the good offices Robert Murray of Glencarnaig did for me and the other officers of the Argyleshire Levies who were taken at Rannoch and kept prisoners at Inverness. When we came to Inverness we had no money, anything that was about us, even part of our clothes being taken from us when apprehended. We were put into a dungeon without any subsistence for some days & lay there neglected. Mr Murray was the first who invited us, of the rebel officers & the only one who took compassion on our circumstances He gave us money, regretted greatly to find us in such a miserable prison & never ceased his importunity till he got us removed from it, wherein had he not prevailed we could not live there, nor was his care confined to us, he visited & supplied our private men with money & when notwithstanding he gave them money they could get no meal for it, he also procured that for them. Now that I understand he has
surrendered himself to General Campbell I could not forbear doing the man the justice to mention this to you, earnestly entreating you'll acquaint the General of it, I think this the least I can do in return to his good offices to the other officers and myself & herewith send you to be given to him, the money I had from him myself.
Letter from Mr Campbell of Ballachoyle to John Campbell, Deputy
Chamberlain of Argyle and which he gave to General Campbell i6 Sep. 1746.
" You know I had the misfortune amongst others of the Argyleshire levies to be taken prisoner at Rannoch by the Rebels and was carried to Inverness where I and the other officers were most inhumanly treated and confined in a dungeon. There we lay for some days neglected without either subsistence or money to procure it as when we were apprehended all our money was taken from us. In this miserable
condition the first, and I may say the only person, who commiserated our circumstances was Robert Murray of Glencarnaig He liberally supplied not only us the officers with money & laboured with all his power to remove, and at last prevailed to get us removed, from the dungeon where we lay to an easier prison, where he visited us & continued to supply us. I understand he has now surrendered to
General Campbell. I could not allow myself to dispense with informing you in hopes of your communicating it to the General, of this goodnatured behaviour of the man and assuring you that but for his good offices, I really believe some of our private men and even of us officers, must have starved which was very near being the case, when he first noticed us. If he should now stand in need of money
gratitude obliges me to desire you to supply him which I shall repay you.
Glencarnaig married a third time in 1751, and as his v/ife, Miss Drummond of Hawthornden, was an heiress, his circumstances may have again been comfortable. His only son John went out to America
"as a volunteer about 1756, under the eye of General Lord Loudoun, he highly distinguished himself upon several commands and was appointed a Lieut in Colonel Fraser's Regiment of Highlanders. At the Siege of Louisburg 1758 he gave signal proofs of his bravery, but having with more boldness than prudence jumped upon the breastworks to view the enemy he was laid prostrate on the bed of honour by a cannon ball which carried off his head ; deservedly regretted by all his acquaintance and most sincerely lamented by all relations." — " Baronage."
Excerpts from the only letter from John, only son of Robert Murray or MacGregor of Glencarnaig, which has been preserved.
" My dearest Sir, — About six weeks ago I wrote from Boston by Captain Noble bound for Clyde, I was sent from Halifax to Boston to provide quarters for Collonel Fraser's Regt who I believe My Lord Loudon intends should winter there, but he has since ordered them here where I expect them daily, and I believe they will winter either at Philadelphia or this place. I long vastly to see Collonel Fraser to thank him for his kindness in appointing me one of his officers and in hopes of receiving letters from you by him, As I have not had one single line from
any of my friends since I arrived on this continent which I assure you my dear Papa has given me very great uneasiness often, I hope I shall not for the future have the same cause. In my last by Captain Noble I gave you my journal since my arrival in this country since which letter nothing remarkable has happened me, My Uncle ' is very well and writes you by this packet, but of an older date than mine, he is about forty miles above this, on his way to Albany where I believe the Regt will quarter this winter, as will likewise Lord John Murray's who are all well and at present between Albany and Fort Edward. In short every body that I recollect and that you are acquainted with are in perfect good health. As for me I never was better in my life than since I came to this country Except one Touch of Dissentry, altho I have gone through some very quick transitions of Climate first from heat to cold and then from cold to heat And indeed every body that I know are in the
same way, for there never was such a number of Troops together with so few deaths amongst them as there is here. As for news I entirely refer you to the Publick Papers, indeed there is none, for everything is in the greatest tranquillity here at present, except now and then a Back Settler scalped by the Indians which we are so familarized to, as to think nothing of it, I dare say not near so much as most people at home do. It is very usuall for people who come to a strange country to make some remarks about the inhabitants, their manners. Customs, &
trade &c &c. But you have seen many much more distinct accounts of all these things than I could pretend to give as my unsettled way of Life and the Company I mostly kept have prevented my coming to the thorough knowledge of them.
"However that I may not seem entirely ignorant of the people amongst whom I have lived above a Twelvemonth I will sett down a few things that must appear obvious to every person who comes here.
"The face of the country in general is woody but very fertile when cleared which is but a very small proportion of the whole, yet is for the most part very pleasing to the Eye, The produce I dare say you are thoroughly well acquainted with therefore will not detain you on that head
"Just now I received a letter from my Uncle he is extremely well. In the list of Captains for Lord John Murray's additional Company there is one James Murray which I think is very probably my uncle as there is not a James Murray in the army, some think it is Lord John's Nephew. But a little time will soon determine us.
Lord John Murray was the half brother of Dukes William and James of Atholl — the James Murray mentioned as Captain, was Lord John's nephew, second son of Lord George Murray. — Ed.
"It is reported here that there is to be another Highland Regt to be raised and the command to be given to Locheil who I'm told is at London, If so I should imagine it was possible to procure me a company in it But of this and the method how to apply for it, you are the best Judge.
"Believe me my dear Sir the greatest pleasure it would give me would be that I should be enabled to assist you in your difficulties, I pray God you may have no need of it. But I beg you may do me the justice to believe that if it shall be ever in my power I will perform it with a grateful and dutiful heart.
"I hope this will find you reconciled to Mr Drummond and Sir John Miln as I dare say it would extricate you out of some of your difficulties, I beg you will write me by every packet let me hear how your affairs are and how you and Mama keep your health with everything else concerning you and my other relations, as I assure you your long silence has given me great uneasiness, I always untill I met my uncle flattered myself with the hopes of your letters having been miscarried But he informed me neither you or he ever wrote any.
"If it were convenient for you to get a letter of recommendation from Mr Hugh Forbes to his brother the Coll; who is Adjutant Generall here I should be greatly obliged to you and I believe it might be of service to me, not that I think it could procure me a step, but it may be of use in severall other cases, I am pretty well acquainted with him, and go pretty often to see him he is at present very well. I have not heard one word from Mrs Brand since I came here yet, and very seldom of her. I beg you may remember me to all my relations, friends, and acquaintances in the proper manner and with my duty, love to &c &c. I am My faf^ most affec" & loving son John Murray.
"New York Oct. 18th
"PS. — Always send your letters by the Packet and direct them for me To Lieut John Murray of Collonell Eraser's Reg. at New York, North America If they are so directed they must come to hand, provided you pay the postage to Falmouth, and the freight from thence here. This is my fourth letter. Since I wrote the rest of my letter I am ordered by Lord Loudon, to go to Connecticut Collony and take up quarters for Col. Fraser's Regt as they are to be cantoned in several different villages in that Government this winter, Adieu once more my dear Fat"-
"Oct. 20. John Murray.
Doquet
"1757 20th Oct. My Cousin John, Younger of Glencarnock, Lieutennent in Frasers Regiment New York," in Sir John's handwriting, when young.
Glencarnock did not long survive his son — He died in Edinburgh, Ocf"' 1758.
The military career of another John MacGregor, uncle of the officer killed at Louisberg, and youngest brother of Glencarnock, will appropriately follow here.
"John fifth son of John Oig of Glencarnock,' 'betaking himself to a military life when very young, signalized himself under General Wentworth in 1740, he was an officer in Lord Loudoun and Lord John Murray's Regiments and had much of the countenance of the first of these. Thereafter he was put in as Captain- Lieutenant to Col. Perry's Regiment in America. In the last war in the unlucky attack of the French Trenches at Ticonderago 1759, he received two musket wounds yet could not be prevailed upon to retire but marched on sword in hand with the boldness of a lion encouraging his brave men, till a third ball killed him on the spot; deservedly regretted by all his acquaintances for his amiable character and by his superior officers in command 'as a Brave and experienced officer' nor less by the soldiers for his humanity and benevolence." — " Baronage."
XXL Duncan Murray or MacGregor succeeded his brother in the representation of the Family of MacGregor. As has been seen he was out
in the " 45 " with his brothers, and was severely wounded at the Battle of Preston Pans.^ His heel was shot away which left him permanently lame. He had been brought up to the Law in Edinburgh and continued to make it his profession. He married Beatrix MacNiven, daughter of Mr David MacNiven, a branch of the family of MacNaughtane,^ and had two children.
1. " John, who was an officer in the Royal Navy, proceeding to the East Indies he attained the rank of Commodore in the Bombay Marine, and received the thanks of Sir Eyre Coote for his services on the coast of Coromandel. Returning from Bencoolen, whither he had conveyed his cousin Alexander, * he landed at Batavia to wait upon the Governor and died there after 24 hours' illness." This took place 23rd March 1784. John left everything of which he died possessed, to his Sister's son John Paul, with the condition that he should take the Surname of MacGregor.
2. Drummond Mary. She married first Mr Paul whose family name had been M'^Phail, by whom she had a son Lt.-Colonel John Paul Mac-
' See page 266. ' He had eleven wounds.
' Her mother was Mary, fourth daughter of Hugh Campbell of Lix and she was therefore first cousin to Duncan, whose mother was Catherine Campbell, see page 267.
* Afterwards Col. Alexander Murray, next brother to Sir John Macgregor Murray.
Gregor, who assumed the latter name in pursuance of his Uncle's Will. He was afterwards Deputy Auditor-General of the Bengal Army and will be noticed later.
Drummond Mary married secondly John MacGregor of the Commercial Bank, and had a son Major Duncan MacGregor, 78th Reg., also
to be noticed later. They had two other sons, Alexander and James, and two daughters Mary and Felicite. ^
Duncan MacGregor of MacGregor died in Feb. 1787, and was succeeded by his nephew afterwards ist Baronet. Several of Duncan's
letters are extant. A great deal of the family history in the Article in Douglas's Baronage was communicated to his nephew Sir John, by him.
In one letter Duncan alluding to some reproduction by a Mr Auld, remarks that there is no harm in it, but that he is entirely averse to
"republishing what relates to the Clan in the Baronage"
"for several reasons. First because all the subscribers are served with their numbers already and who are only gentlemen who mind very little any errors that may happen to be therein, which almost every publication is liable to in less or more degree, being furnished with materials from a variety of people who may through inadvertency or willfully mislead an Author without any sinister design of his." Duncan adds " it is well known that I am always ready to serve any of the name without distinction on every occasion in a lawful way."
"Dun. MacGregor."
Evan, fourth son of John Gig of Glencarnaig, was born in 1710, " he was of a very active and martial spirit " and was a brave and distinguished officer. He married early in life Janet MacDonald youngest daughter of John Macdonald, son of Sir James Macdonald of Slate by his second wife, Evan's marriage must have taken place in 1739, the marriage contract framed several years after is dated 1744.^
When the Standard of James VHI. was raised in Scotland and Evan's eldest brother Robert MacGregor of Glencarnaig took the Field in
command of a Regiment of MacGregors Evan was attached to it as Captain, and in the narrative by Duncan MacPharie it has been related
that he brilliantly distinguished himself at the Battle of Preston Pans, after which Prince Charles made him his Aid-de-camp and he became Major in the Corps. When the campaign was over he had to wander among the hills with his brother Glencarnoch for some months, at which time both brothers destroyed almost all their papers from motives of precaution. Major Evan must eventually have effected his escape from the neighbourhood.
A situation in the French service was kept open for him for some time, but he declined it both because he felt resentment at the Prince's
having been duped by the French Government and because he would not serve any foreign power against his own Country. After suffering various distresses he was appointed an officer in the 88th Reg., in the seven years' war.
This war, it may be remembered, commenced in 1756 between Austria with her allies, France, Russia, Saxony and most of the States of the
Austrian Empire, against Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, who had the alliance of Great Britain through the Hanoverian connection. In 1757 the British and Hanoverians in West Germany kept France at bay. The coalition of great Powers having dissolved from various causes and Austria being unable to maintain the struggle alone. The Peace of Hubertusberg, in Saxony, ended the war in February 1763.
Some letters from Major Evan, mostly to his wife, during the war refer to this period, and the following excerpts are interesting.
Letter to John MacKenzie of Delvine.
"Kirkdinker Camp 13. July 1761. — Dear Sir, — Our army has been for twenty days past marching from place to place in order to bring the French to a general action but hitherto they have declined to face us. There have been small skirmishes frequently, in which the Enemy was always beat back and yesterday afternoon they sent 3 or 4 thousand men with several pieces of cannon, with an intention I apprehend to surprise us in camp ; but being observed by some of our reconoitering parties, Lord Granby in person came and ordered out the two Highland Regiments to attack them, which was done accordingly with the greatest resolution and steadiness ; and though the enemy were placed in a Bush of wood with their Cannon in their front playing upon us, they were soon put to flight. In this skirmish poor Capt. Gunn was killed, Capt. Gorrie, Lieuts George MacKenzie and Rose wounded but not dangerously. Lord Granby was eyewitness of the Highlanders performance and approved greatly of their bravery. "
Letter to Mrs Murray or MacGregor.
"Camp at Sando nth August 1761. This is my fourth letter since I had the satisfaction of yours of the 17 June which makes me quite uneasie as you wrote me that you was in a bad state of health, I pray God this may find you and your young folk in a good way
"There has been nothing extraordinary that has happened since the 15 and 16 July, Excepting two smart attacks that the two Highland Regiments and some other Reg: had with M; B: last week. In both of which we succeeded without any loss from the two Highland Corps except 5 men wounded. Our army has been ever since in motion, and this day we have marched about twenty miles and we are now in sight of the Enemy, Both officers and men are in good spirits and we have the good fortune to be commanded by experienced Generals, so that I am hopeful one hearty blow will at least afford us some time to rest, if not a peace.
"I wrote to Lady Margaret McDonald the other week, and thanked her ladyship in regaird to Sandie,' of whom I long to hear. I likewise wrote Mr M'^Kenzie of Delvin and sent it with Major Wedderburn to London, I should be glad if you wait on him without loss of time as it concerned some business that I intend to put into execution and which will not admit of any delay ; Mr MacKenzie will let you know the affair when you see him and in case he approves of the scheme and that he does not choose to solicit the gentleman that I made mention of, Mr James Scott Merchant in the Lockenbooth is a most proper hand to procure the letter I wanted from Sir Alexander Dick of Breastfield to his nephew Col:
Keith ; I am very well with the Col. myself, but a letter from his uncle would go a great length ; I likewise desired you in one of my letters to procure a letter from Col; Beckwith's Lady who is a third Cousin of mine and told you the proper persons to apply to. Likewise a letter from Mr Alex: Maxwell Wine merchant in Leith to his brother Col Maxwell would be of use to me, I am pretty well acquainted with the Col. and dined with him and Major Preston yesterday who is very civil to me, owing to my good friend Abernethie in procuring a letter in my favour from the Major's sister. In short I am very lucky, as to good companions and the officers of the Regiment I belong to regards me much beyond what I merit. I wrote Mrs Drummond Abernethie, some time ago to whom and the Doctor please offer my dutifull compts as also to &c &c. Make my complimts to Capt: Campbell of the City Guard and tell him his son who is a pretty lad, and Lord Colin Campbell are both well, as all the
other officers are and those that were wounded upon the isth and i6th are mending fast. You can see a copy of the thanks that the Duke was pleased to give to the two Battalions of Highlanders for their bravery with Capt Campbell of the Guard. I thank God I never had my health better, but I am plagued with a severe pain in my back owing to fatigue."
(Messages to the young folk follow.)
From the same to the same.
"Frankenberg Camp at Rilpenrote Nov. 17. 1762.
I dare say my long silence has caused you apprehend that I forgot you entirely but the case with me all this campaign has been such, that I had scarce time to sitt down owing to the continual hurry and fatigues our Brigade has been exposed to and my own disorder made
me almost thoughtless. I thank God I have now got the better of my ague thoroughly and am beginning to turn lusty, Sandie is very well and Likewise excusable for not corresponding with you having the same reasons that I make use of, Excepting that of being in a bad state of health ; he has marched every step all the campaign and has no complaints of the fatigues he has undergone ; as there has been no vacancy in Col. Keith's Reg'- he is as yet unprovided for however I have the pleasure to tell you that Lord Granby has been pleased to promise to do for him whether there is peace or war, I am to dine with him tomorrow when I shall put his Lordship in mind of him, the boy has the good fortune to be pretty well known to the first men here and vastly well liked, which you may believe affords me no small satisfaction. I've not allowed him to touch one single farthing of his pay since he joined his Regiment so that he can safely say he is the only one of his
rank who has done the same. I had my own reasons for this, not that I had too much cash to line his pockets. Col. Keith dined with me this day and is to carry Sandie with him the first day he pays a visit to Lord Granby, no man can be more desirous of promoting his volunteer than he is ; be his luck what it will I don't repent nor grudge sending for him. I would write to you after the 21 Sep. had I been with the Regiment but being ordered with a detachment from the Guards, the two Highland Regt. and 100 Hanoverians, in whole making 200 privates and five
officers which I had the honour to command, to reinforce one Capt. Kruse of the Brittanick Legions 'who was appointed Governor of the town Amineberg with 300 of the Legions under his command ; twixt the 17 and 20th of Sep. the enemy made several fruitless attacks and on the morning of the 21. do, they opened a battery of eight pieces of 24 pounders and four large howitzers upon the place and at the same time endeavoured to force a pass at a Bridge, where we had a post ; the attack upon both the town and the Bridge was made about 5 oclock in the morning and lasted till 9 at night without the least intermission In short it was allowed the like was never seen by any person in life. The French at this time, found that it was impracticable for them to force their way being so nobly defended by the British, and a Regiment or two of Hanoverians & Hessians that relieved in turns, but after the firing ceased at the Bridge they continued cannonading the town and throwing shells which made several Breaches. I had the charge of the Ramparts round the whole place and notwithstanding that the Enemy made a very formidable attack thinking to storm the town, I had the good fortune to repulse them, killing thirty-three on the spot and took a Captain and 50 private prisoners, the officers and men I had with me behaved with the greatest coolness and bravery and they are pleased to report me to their Commanding officers, greatly beyond what I could pretend to merit, however this affair did me no hurt, the next morning about 10 oclock Prince Soubize the Commander-in-Chief of the French Army summoned the Governor to surrender the place, giving him to understand that all the deserters he had would not suffer, that the officers' and soldiers' effects would not be touched, but they behooved to be prisoners of War. Upon receiving this message Captain Kruse sent for me to inform me of the proposals made by Soubize and insisted upon my opinion, as this was a critical case I was somewhat backward about giving him any, and told him that he no doubt Knew what orders he had received from Duke Ferdinand and for my part that I was determined to maintain my post to the last Extremity provided he had no objection. This made the Gentleman a good deal uneasie, finding me so unwilling to give up the place, I knew well that the place could not hold out for any time having nothing but small arms within to guard it, but my chief view was that it would oblige the French to separate the army they had, with an intention to cross the Bridge. Consequently that Lord Granby's Corps would be more able to maintain their position, making use of these arguments. The Captain sent to Soubize to demand of him that he and all the Garrison would be allowed to march
out of the town with all the Honours of War, but this being refused he accepted of the former. I was three days a prisoner of War but Lord Granby was good enough to procure my parole the third day, the other gentlemen did not receive theirs so soon, the french General and Officers showed the greatest civility to us. I procured my Leave to go home this winter but as a cessation of arms is this night published by the Duke to the whole army, I have reason to think the whole British troops will be ordered home very soon, in that event I wo'nt go till
the whole goes, I write to Lady Erskine and her Brother Col. Wedderburn in favours of Sandie to see and get him in to an old Corps, and I wish you to get Lady Chesterhall to second my application. Wait on Mrs Beckwith and thank her in my name, Col. Beckwith has shewn the greatest friendship to me and Sandy, and will go any length to serve us, meantime if Mrs Beckwith would not think it troublesome, would she repeat her desire in doing for Sandy, it is unlucky for me the peace happened so soon. Serg' MacGregor is in perfect good health and begs
to tell his wife that he sent her /^s by one Serj. Farquharson who went home with Captain Farquharson and with him I sent Old Duncan Aberoch' and the silver mounted sword Belt I had, which I dare say the lad delivered carefully. Assure Jackie 2 that I have the same regard for him as if I corresponded with him, however I think he ought to write to me frequently, Remember me to my old Mother and Brother 2 and I am glad his son is sent to sea. Evan Murray."
From the same to the same.
"Frankenburg Nov 20. 1762. I wrote you the 16, current which I delivered to Lord Granby's Secretary but there has been no messanger sent off by his Lordship to England since. I'm afraid the letter will not reach you so soon as I intended, I wrote you a long letter wherein I told you how far I had the luck of having the Countenance of Lord Granby and all his suite, to whom I can never return all the Civility they always shewed me, and in consequence of such good acquaintances, not that my merit deserved their favour, I have the satisfaction to inform you that Sandie is recommended by Lord Granby for a Pair of Colours in the 50th Reg. which indeed is by far the genteelest Corps of Officers I know in any one Reg whatever, I expect his notification in a fortnight at farthest when he'l have I dare say a call to join his Reg. You may believe it affords me infinite pleasure to have him provided for at the beginning of a peace and the more so, to be appointed with such a fine Corps of Gentlemen ; and I am very hopefull if he lives that he will turn out a credit to his friends, You may believe that equipping him out will be very hard upon me, however I shall not fail to fitt him out, I doe assure you Coll. Keith is as glad of his being provided for, as I can be and
likewise all my good friends here, I have very great reason to thank God that I was preserved from the many dangers I have been exposed to since I left you and now in good health, which, and the assistance of my worthy freinds here, procured Sandie such genteel livelihood, I may indeed call them my friends though not my relations The whole army decamped yesterday and the Brigade I belong to is thus far on our way to Winter Cantonments which is to be in Munsterland and against the i. Dec. we arrive at the different Quarters appointed for us, we seem to be afraid to be ordered how soon we land in Britain, to go to the right about, for which I am using all my little interest to try and get into an old Regiment or some other better berth than a broken officer, as I forsee that half pay will not enable me to support you and our family, till I have it in my power to clear my debt, which takes many hours rest from me but I shall always live in good hopes."
As Major Evan, who in the British army only ranked as a lieutenant, ' Evidently referring to the two handed Broadsword which Major Evan had cut down, rightly anticipated, he found on his return to Great Britain that he could only drift more hopelessly into difficulties on half pay. Early in the spring of 1763 he applied to friends to try and obtain for him something of a factorship, but a friend wrote that that appointment which appeared to answer to that of steward in England, was in that country generally given to an attorney. His anxiety for work and his difficulties are well explained in the following memorial and letter which Lieut. Evan addressed to Capt. Murray of Strowan in July 1763.
Copy of letter from Lieutenant Evan Murray, dated Edinburgh, 20th June 1763, to Captain Murray of Strowan, eldest son of Lord George
Murray, and afterwards 3rd Duke of Atholl, from the Duke of Atholl's Papers.
" Honrd: Sir, — You may remember sir, that I did myself the honour of waiting on you at London in March last, when I told you that the situation of my family required a better support than a Lieutenant's half pay, and beg'd of your honour to take the trouble of to look for a more advantageous berth for me, to which you was pleased to tell me you should be glad to serve me. it's true Sir, my misfortune is to be but slightly known to you, but you'll take the trouble to ask my Character of your Cousin Major Murray, he can inform you about me. I have used the freedom to inclose you a sketch of a memorial, which will inform you more particularlie what difficulties I have wrestled throw, which I hope you'll please take the trouble to inforce with his Grace the Duke of Atholl, and the Lord privie Seal, who I dare say will visit you. The Office which the Memorial mentions, I was told a letter from the Duke, or from the Lord privy Seal to the Provost and Magistrates of this City
(at whose disposal the said Office will be when it falls vacant) and which it is thoght will happen soon, would obtain the request. But if his Grace and you should be scrupulous in asking a favour of this kind, dare I use the freedom to intreat of you to scheme some thing or other for me, that will make me to support my small family, and whatever station you will be pleased to appoint for me in the character of a gentleman, will be satisfying, and will ever be grateful for it, which at present is all in my power, in hopes you will pardon this freedom as nothing but mere Necessity would force me to presume it, I beg you'le do me the justice to beheve that I am with profound respect to his Grace, Lady Chariot and you.
" Honrd; Sir
"Your most obedient and most obliged Hu"°' Servt:
"Edr: 28: July 1763. Evan Murray.
'Captain Murray of Strowan's uncle and father-in-law.
"PS. — pray excuse the unconcetness of this long narration being in great hurry if I am honoured with a return please direct for me at Forest's Coffee house here."
"Memorial for Lieutenant Evan Murray of Colonell John Campbells highland Regiment, and Brother German of the deceast Robert Murray of
Glencarnoch.
"The Memorialist, who was not in very opulent circumstances, married Mrs Janet MacDonald daughter to the late John MacDonald of Balcony Esquire, second son of the deceast Sir James MacDonald, a family of a respectable Character ; By his said Spouse the memorialist has a numerous family, none of whom can do for themselves for some time to come.
"That though the Memorialist thus married when but in low circumstances, yet he had a good deal of Credite, and was likely to thrive and provide for his family in a genteel way, but when he was in hopes of wrestling through the world with some satisfaction, was kicked in the face by Madam Fortune, and embarassed in a series of misfortunes, one in particular was, that he had his House which consisted of 14 fine rooms, and was neatly furnished together with a pretty large sum of money all destroyed by accidentall fire.
"By this and many other misfortunes, the memorialist was reduced to very indigent circumstances, in so much that it was with the utmost difficulty he could get credite for as much as maintained his Family, and continued in that situation till the above Regiment was raised, in which he got a Lieutenancy ; His recruiting men laid the memorialist deeper under water than he was before, as there was no levy money allowed for that Regiment, and each man cost the memorialist at least six guineas.
"The memorialist served in the said regiment as a Lieutenant, and was in Germany with it till the whole British Forces came home, and the above regiment was broke at Linlithgow upon the ninth day of May last; and it could not be expected he could live on a Lieutenant's pay in the Seat of War, a Foreign Country, and where all necessaries of life must have been extravagantly dear, while at the same time he was oblidged to maintain and educate his family in Scotland, so as to make them as useful members of Society as possible.
"In these perplexing circumstances the memorialist's at a loss how to behave, and knows not what to turn his hand to, in order to support his family in a decent way, and if possible to do his benefactors justice, which it is impossible he can do in his present Situation having nothing to depend upon but his half pay. There is a berth that in all appearance will soon fall vacant in this City, vizt : a Captaincy in the Town Guard and which would suit the Memorialist's circumstances very well, and might enable him to maintain his family in a decent manner and through time
do justice to his Creditors.
"This Berth he makes no doubt might by the application of well disposed people of weight be obtained for him, from the Provost & Magistrates of Edinburgh, at whose disposal the said office will be when it falls vacant."
After some little time a lieutenancy fell vacant in the 41
- Excerpt from thepeerage.com
-
Sources - [S309] Public Member Trees, Ancestry.com, (Name: Name: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc.;;), Database online.
Record for Evan MacGregor
http://trees.ancestry.com/pt/AMTCitationRedir.aspx?tid=0&pid=9137 - [S308] Ancestry Family Trees, (Name: Name: Online publication - Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com. Original data: Family Tree files submitted by Ancestry members.;;), Ancestry Family Tree.
- [S309] Public Member Trees, Ancestry.com, (Name: Name: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc.;;), Database online.
Record for Iain Og (John) (MacGregor) Murray (1st of Glencarnoch 5th Chief of Children of the Mist)
http://trees.ancestry.com/pt/AMTCitationRedir.aspx?tid=0&pid=9137 - [S309] Public Member Trees, Ancestry.com, (Name: Name: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc.;;), Database online.
Record for Evan Macgregor Murray (Major)
http://trees.ancestry.com/pt/AMTCitationRedir.aspx?tid=103289043&pid=12163
- [S309] Public Member Trees, Ancestry.com, (Name: Name: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc.;;), Database online.
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