Next morning, at a very early hour, the whole of the insurgent troops assembled in the market-place of the ancient town of Hexham, preparatory to marching to Roth bury.
Here Lord Widdrington took leave of his friends for a time, having, at General Forster's earnest request, undertaken another journey into Lancashire to confer with the Jacobites and High Church Tories in that county, and endeavour to induce them to rise without delay.
The chief command of his troop was therefore temporarily given to Lord Derwentwater.
Precisely as the abbey church clock struck six, the insurgents rode out of Hexham. The weather was fine, and the men in good spirits. They met with no misadventure on the road, nor did they hear any tidings of the enemy, but after a long halt at Kirkharle, they reached Rothbury in the evening.
Lord Kenmure, the commander of the South Country Scots, accompanied by the Earl of Nithsdale, the Earl of Wintoun, the Earl of Carnwath, and Lord Nairn rode out to meet them, and the greatest satisfaction was evinced on both sides that a junction of their forces had, at length, been effected. Still, it was the opinion of Lord Kenmure and the other Scottish nobles that they must not venture upon an encounter with the Government troops till they were further strengthened by a junction with Mackintosh and the Highlanders, and they therefore proposed to set out to Wooler next day. This proposition being agreed to by General Forster and his officers, the horses were stabled, and the men quartered as well as circumstances would admit, while their leaders sat down to an excellent supper provided for them by the Scottish nobles at the Blue Star. Capital claret, it appeared, could be had at Rothbury, and a good deal of it was drunk that night. Before they separated, the English and Scottish commanders became boon companions.
Next morning the combined forces proceeded to Wooler, and being greatly fatigued by their march remained there during the whole of the next day, though their quarters were far from satisfactory. At Wooler they were joined by the Reverend Robert Patten of Allendale, whom General Forster appointed his chaplain, and by Mr. Lancelot Errington, the gallant young gentleman who had succeeded in capturing a fort on Holy Island, as already related. Mr. Errington, however, not receiving any supplies, was attacked, and taken prisoner by the Governor of Berwick, but speedily effected his escape, and procuring a horse, joined his friends at Wooler. His brother, Captain Thomas Errington now commanded Lord Widdrington's troops, so that he was at once appointed one of the officers.
Intelligence was brought by this gentleman that Brigadier Mackintosh and the Highlanders had reached Dunse, and meant to attack Kelso, which was occupied by Sir William Bennet of Grubet, with a strong party of militia and some volunteers. Sir William, it was said, had barricaded the town, and made other preparations for its defence.
On hearing this, Lord Kenmure and General Forster decided upon marching to Kelso to aid Mackintosh in storming the town. Accordingly, they set out next morning, passing by Humbledon Heugh, Akeld, and over the hill ridges near Kirk Newton. As they proceeded, Captain Douglas, who was well acquainted with the country, and accustomed to Border forays, as we have already stated, managed to seize several horses, and likewise captured Mr. Selby of Kilham, a volunteer, who was repairing to Kelso, to Sir William Bennet's assistance.
About mid-day the insurgents came in sight of the beautiful town of Kelso, with its ancient abbey so charmingly situated on the banks of the Tweed, and before proceeding further, halted on a moor to call over the rolls of the men. While the leaders of each troop were thus employed, word was brought by a scout, that Sir William Bennet, alarmed by the report of the advance of the Highlanders, had abandoned the town, whereupon they at once resumed their march, and fording the Tweed, entered the town without opposition—the barricades being already pulled down. But though the inhabitants offered no resistance, they received them with great coldness, and eyed them with sullen looks. No shouts were heard, as the insurgents rode along one of the main streets to the market-place where they drew up.
Brigadier Mackintosh had not yet arrived, but he was known to be close at hand, and Lord Kenmure feeling that the compliment was due to the valiant Highland commander, went to meet him, leaving General Forster and the English division in the town.
Lord Kenmure and the Lowlanders had not ridden further than Ednam Bridge when the shrill notes of the bagpipes announced the approach of the Highlanders, and in another minute Mackintosh and his detachment came in sight.
As soon as the Highlanders understood that the troops in front of them were friends, they set up a great shout, and quickened their pace.
The Lowlanders responded with equal vigour, and the greatest enthusiasm was displayed on both sides.
Nothing could be more cordial than the meeting between the two commanders. Lord Kenmure was loud in his praises of the brigadier's skill and bravery, and told him that he looked upon the crossing of the Firth, under the circumstances, as one of the most remarkable exploits ever performed. His lordship then turned to Lord Charles Murray, Lord Nairn, Major Forbes, Logie Drummond, and others who were standing by, and expressed his admiration of their gallantry.
By this time the Earl of Wintoun, the Earl of Carnwath, Captain Hume, and the other Lowland officers had come up, and salutations were exchanged on all hands.
When these greetings were over, the two detachments, which had now, to a certain extent, become mixed together, marched to Kelso—the pipers taking the lead, and playing lustily.
Before proceeding, it may be necessary briefly to explain what the brigadier had accomplished since he quitted Perth about ten days previously.
At that time, the detachment under his command consisted of six regiments, and with a number of gentlemen volunteers formed a total of two thousand five hundred men.
The brigadier's orders from the Earl of Mar were to get as many men as he could over the Firth, and though the channel was defended by ships of war, smacks, and boats filled with armed men, Mackintosh courageously made the attempt, and despite all the exertions of the cruisers to prevent him, succeeded in reaching the East Lothian coast with fifteen hundred men—the Earl of Strathmore's battalion being forced back and compelled to go on shore on the Isle of May. This was the exploit to which Lord Kenmure had referred in terms of such high admiration.
With the troops he had thus brought across the Firth, the brigadier at once marched to Haddington, where he was invited by the Scottish Jacobites to make an attempt on Edinburgh, and unhesitatingly complied with the request.
He advanced as far as Jock's Lodge, but not meeting with the promised support, he turned to Leith, and took possession of a partly-demolished fort, built by Oliver Cromwell, and proceeded to barricade it.
Next day the Duke of Argyle, who had hastened from Stirling to the protection of Edinburgh, summoned him to surrender. On his refusal, the duke threatened to bombard the fort on the morrow, but in the night Mackintosh withdrew, and conducted his men cautiously along the sands at low water to Seaton House—a castle belonging to Lord Wintoun.
Here he posted himself securely with his force, and laughed at the threats of Lord Torpichen and the Earl of Rothes, who came from Edinburgh to dislodge him with two hundred dragoons and three hundred volunteers.
At Seaton House he remained fora couple of days, and in that short interval stored it with provisions to stand a siege, when he learnt that the South Country Scots and Northumbrians had risen, and received an express from Forster praying him to meet him at Coldstream or Kelso.
Another express came from the Earl of Mar bidding him march south, and join the English insurgents.
The latter order could not be disobeyed, and he therefore quitted the stronghold he had gained, and marched to Longformacus, harassed in the rear by the Government troops.
But this pursuit did not prevent him from plundering the house of Doctor Sinclair, who had incurred the animosity of the Jacobites by shooting young Hepburn of Keith.
Continuing his march to Dunse, the brigadier rested there for a day, proclaimed James the Third, collected the excise dues, and received the very satisfactory intelligence that Sir William Bennet had abandoned Kelso. No longer troubled by the Government troops, and renovated by the much-needed repose, he marched on next day to Kelso, and was met at Ednam Bridge, as we have related, by the Lowlanders.
Such were the main incidents that had occurred during Mackintosh's memorable march towards the south. He had proved himself a thoroughly good soldier, equal to every emergency, and not to be checked by danger or difficulty, and fully deserved the encomiums passed upon him by Lord Ken mure.
As the Highlanders entered Kelso, with bagpipes playing, colours flying, and drums beating, the inhabitants flocked forth to gaze at them, and were greatly struck by the stalwart appearance and martial bearing of the men.
Brigadier Mackintosh, of whose doings so much had been heard, excited great curiosity, and the tall figure, strongly marked features, and athletic limbs of the veteran warrior would have pointed him out to all beholders, even if he had not marched at the head of his detachment.
Throughout their progress neither the brigadier nor any of his officers had mounted a horse, but marched on foot with the men, and crossed all rivers in their Highland garb.
Amongst those who attracted most attention was Lord
Charles Murray, who was remarkable for his graceful person and good looks.
Lord Nairn and some of the subaltern officers were also thought very fine men.
Indeed, the Highlanders generally produced a favourable impression on the good folks of Kelso, who gave them a far warmer welcome than they had accorded to their allies.
The junction between the confederate forces formed a curious and interesting scene. When the brigadier first beheld the Northumbrian detachment drawn up in the market-place, he was struck by the handsome show made by both horses and men, but when he began to scrutinise them, he quickly changed his opinion.
“Saul o' my body! this will never do!” he exclaimed to Lord Charles Murray. “Those abalyiements are na fit for war. Saw ye ever before a dragoon with a hunting-saddle on his horse's back, a toasting-fork by his side, or a riding-whip in his hand? I trow not. They should get basket-hilted broad swords like our ain, saddles wi' high pommels and holsters, and as to those riding-whips, I should like to lay them across the shoulders of the bearers.”
“The men certainly look better equipped for flight than for attack,” replied Lord Charles. “But we must not judge them too harshly. They may fight well in spite of their dress swords, and charge even with race-horses.”
“Vera true,” replied the brigadier, laughing. “And here comes General Forster.”
“By my faith! he looks more like an English fox-hunter than a soldier,” remarked Lord Charles in an undertone. “I wonder how they came to choose him.”
“They couldna help it,” replied the brigadier. “Lord Derwentwater was the right man, yet being a Papist, he wouldn't do.”
Attended by Lord Charles Murray, Lord Nairn, Major Forbes, and Logie Drummond, the brigadier stepped forward to meet General Forster, who was closely followed by Lord Derwentwater and the other Northumbrian officers.
At the same time Lord Kenmure came forward, and presented the two commanders to each other.
The meeting was very friendly, and the brigadier praised
Forster's troops, but told him plainly he ought to get different saddles and better swords.
“So we will, as soon as we can procure them,” replied Forster. “But they are not to be had.”
The English officers were next presented to the brigadier, who seemed best pleased with Lord Derwentwater. From the first moment, the rough old soldier conceived a friendship for the young noble, which he never afterwards lost.
The various troops marched past the three commanders, who remained for some time longer in the market-place, and then proceeded to their quarters.
After the junction of the confederate forces had been effected, it was found that they formed an army of two thousand men, of whom the majority were Highlanders.
Though the force was still small, so much confidence was now felt in Mackintosh, and such strong hopes were entertained that large additions would soon be received, that no misgivings were felt.
On the day of the junction, the commanders and officers dined together, and the best feeling was manifested. All old jealousies, if any had existed, were banished. A warm tribute was paid by Lord Derwentwater to the valour and skill of Brigadier Mackintosh, with which the veteran warrior was much gratified.
Next day, being Sunday, great discretion had to be used by the leaders of an army composed of Presbyterians, High Church Tories, and Roman Catholics.
That such discordant elements could be reconciled—even for a brief season—seemed impossible. Nevertheless, by the judicious management of Lord Kenmure, who retained the command of the confederate force so long as it continued in Scotland, the thing was accomplished.
At this time, three clergymen were attached to the expedition—the Reverend William Irvine, chaplain to the Earl of Carnwath, an Episcopalian and Nonjuror—the Reverend Robert Patten, of Allendale, who belonged to the High Church, and had just been appointed chaplain to General Forster—and the Reverend Mr. Buxton, likewise a Church of England divine, who might be considered chaplain to the entire English force, since there was no Roman Catholic priest.
By Lord Kenmure's orders all the officers and men attended at the Great Kirk, where the Church of England service was performed.
The large congregation thus assembled presented an extraordinary sight, and the behaviour of the men was extremely decorous—that of the Highlanders especially so. They nearly filled the body of the sacred edifice, and listened with devout attention to the discourse of Mr. Patten, who took for his text, “The right of the firstborn is his”—applying it to the cause for which they were fighting.
In the afternoon, an equally large congregation assembled, consisting chiefly of Highlanders, to hear the Reverend William Irvine, the Scottish Nonjuror, who treated them to a sermon he had preached to Lord Dundee before the battle of Killiecrankie.
It was thought that this fiery sermon was given in deference to the wishes of Brigadier Mackintosh; and it would almost seem so, since the old Highlander listened to it with profound attention, and afterwards expressed his satisfaction to the preacher.
A very favourable impression was produced on the Kelso folk by the exemplary conduct of the troops on the Sabbath; but they were not quite so well pleased when Mackintosh next morning, while searching for arms, discovered several barrels of gunpowder concealed in the vaults of the kirk, and swore if he could catch the traitors who had placed them there, he would hang them like dogs.
The brigadier was likewise extraordinarily active in foraging and plundering, and seized all the public revenues without scruple.
Under other circumstances, Lord Derwentwater would have enjoyed his visit to Kelso, but his mind was so troubled, that even Roxburgh Castle, Floors, or the charming views of the Tweed and the Teviot afforded him very little pleasure.
His heart was at Dilston.
On the third day after their arrival at Kelso, one of the scouts sent by Lord Kenmure to watch the movements of the Government troops, brought word that General Carpenter had reached Wooler with a force of nine hundred men, consisting of Hotham's regiment of foot, and three regiments of dragoons, and intended next day to attack Kelso.
On receipt of this important intelligence, a council of war was immediately summoned, which was attended by all the commanders and officers.
The main point to be considered was whether they should await the English general's attack at Kelso, and barricade the town, or cross the Tweed, and meet him.
Lord Derwentwater was decidedly of opinion that the latter course should be adopted, and maintained that their force being double that of Carpenter, the result of an engagement could not be doubtful—although the Government general possessed three regiments of experienced dragoons.
But his advice, though approved by General Forster and the English officers, was opposed by the Earl of Wintoun.
“As Scotsmen,” said his lordship, “we are best able to serve the king's cause in our own country, and are therefore most reluctant to cross the Border. Is it not so?” he added, appealing to his compatriots—all of whom assented except Mackintosh.
“But you have the Earl of Mar's orders to advance,” remarked General Forster. “How can you disobey them?”
“The Earl of Mar is not aware of our exact position,” replied Lord Wintoun, “or his orders would be countermanded. At present, all communication with him is difficult, and if we enter England it will be entirely cut off. But it may be opened—and this is the plan of operation I would recommend. Falling back to the north-west, attacking Dumfries and Glasgow on our way, we shall be able to join the Western Clans, and, combining with them, can either cross the Firth above Stirling, or proceed as the Earl of Mar may direct.”
This proposition was manifestly to the taste of the Scottish leaders, most of whom signified their approval of it.
“But why throw away our present chance?” cried the Earl of Derwentwater. “Why not attack Carpenter when we can do so with every advantage? From the report just received he is greatly our inferior in numbers, and his troops are exhausted. The prestige of a victory would be of immense service to the cause.”
“We do not care to cross the Tweed,” again objected Lord Wintoun.
“If you won't cross the Tweed, my lord, General Carpenter will,” rejoined Lord Derwentwater, contemptuously.
“He will gain little by the movement,” retorted Lord Wintoun. “He will find Kelso evacuated, and will not dare follow us.”
“Is this the sort of fighting we are to expect?” cried Lord Derwentwater. “Are we always to retreat on the appearance of the foe? We Northumbrians did not come to Scotland to join the Western Clans, but to meet our brave ally Brigadier Mackintosh, who is pledged to march with us to London, and we claim fulfilment of his promise. As to General Carpenter, if our allies won't help us, we will attack him alone. Do I not express your sentiments, general?” he added to Forster.
“My opinion decidedly is, that Carpenter ought to be met by the whole confederate force,” said Forster. “My own division is not strong enough to encounter him, and would incur certain defeat.”
“Again, I say, the Scots will not cross the Tweed,” remarked Lord Wintoun. “If our English allies choose to sacrifice themselves, we may grieve, but we cannot help it.”
Restraining himself with difficulty, the Earl of Derwentwater turned to Mackintosh, who had not hitherto spoken, and said:
“Do you mean to desert us, brigadier?”
“No, my lord,” was the reply.
“Then let the Lowlanders join the Western Clans if they will,” said the earl. “We can do without them.”
Lord Wintoun placed his hand upon his sword, and the other Lowland leaders would have fiercely resented the remark, if Lord Kenmure had not interposed.
“We must have no quarrels among ourselves,” he said. “When Lord Derwentwater becomes calmer, he will regret having spoken thus hastily. As yet, I am chief in command of the whole insurgent force, and my orders must be obeyed.”
“They shall be obeyed by me, my lord,” said General Forster. “But I pray you not to take us further into Scotland. My troops will assuredly revolt.”
“We will come to a decision at Jedburgh,” said Lord Kenmure, somewhat evasively. “Meantime, precise information must be obtained as to the movements of the enemy. You shall go on the errand, Captain Gordon,” he added, addressing a tall, exceedingly handsome young man in the Lowland garb.
Captain Gordon, an officer in the Merse troop, commanded by the Honourable Captain Hume, and distinguished for his courage and activity, seemed well pleased at being chosen for the dangerous expedition.
“I will rejoin your lordship at Jedburgh,” he said. “But if I find General Carpenter and his force on the move, you will see me sooner.”
With this he bowed and quitted the room, and almost before the council had broken up he was on the other side of the Tweed.
“Brigadier,” said General Forster, addressing Mackintosh, after some further discussion had taken place; “before we separate I must ask you plainly if you mean to march with us to London?”
“I will answer frankly, general,” replied Mackintosh. “My men will never enter England unless they are certain of their pay.”
“Is that the only difficulty?” said Lord Derwentwater. “I feared from what has been said, that they might be averse to a campaign in England.”
“So they are, my lord,” replied the brigadier. “But possibly their aversion may be overcome by the certainty of good pay.”
“Make them quite easy on that score,” said Lord Derwentwater. “I will provide the money.”
“When my men learn your lordship's generous promise,” said Mackintosh, “I doubt not they will be very grateful.”
“'Tis but a small subsidy to the king,” said Lord Derwentwater. “I would give my whole property to set him on the throne.”
“Truly, your lordship sets us all a good example, which we ought to follow,” said Lord Kenmure. “And now for Jedburgh!”
About an hour later, much to the relief of the inhabitants, who began to fear that a battle would be fought under their walls, the whole insurgent force quitted Kelso, having stayed there three days.
The Northumbrians reached their destination first, and as the others did not arrive, they rode back to see what had happened to them and found the South Country Scots drawn up on the road about two miles from the town, and waiting for the Highlanders, who, in their turn, had halted to receive General Carpenter—believing he was in pursuit. These false alarms caused some delay, but eventually the whole force reached Jedburgh.
Next day another council of war was held, and the same dissension prevailed as before, threatening to end in a rupture among the chiefs.
Previously to the meeting Lord Wintoun, who had had a private conference with Mackintosh, was persuaded that the brigadier would support him. But he was mistaken—the old warrior would not desert the Northumbrians, though it was evident he himself was unwilling to quit Scotland.
While they were still engaged in angry and fruitless discussion, Captain Gordon returned.
“What news do you bring us, sir?” demanded Lord Kenmure. “Has General Carpenter crossed the Border?”
“He has, my lord,” replied Captain Gordon; “and the greater part of his force is quartered at the Yetholms within eight miles of this place. Troops are cantoned at Hounham, Mendrum, Town-Yetholm, Kirk-Yetholm, and Morbattle, as I myself have ascertained. I ventured so near them at Morbattle, that I was discovered and pursued by a dozen of Churchill's dragoons, within two miles of Jedburgh, when they gave up the chase. No doubt they believed we were still at Kelso, but they must now have found out their mistake.”
“Captain Gordon,” said Mackintosh, “so far as you can judge, what is the condition of the enemy?”
“Their horses are jaded, or I should not have escaped,” replied Gordon, “and I am certain the foot, of whom there must be five or six hundred, are fatigued with their long march. I therefore feel convinced there will be no general attack to-day, and I think we might surprise them.”
“You hear what Captain Gordon says, my lord?” cried Mackintosh, turning to Lord Kenmure. “From the observations he has just made he is of opinion we may surprise the enemy.”
“General Carpenter himself is at Kirk-Yetholm,” remarked Captain Gordon.
“So much the better,” said the brigadier. “Having taken up a position there, he will make no further advance to-day. Our whole force is in marching order. Let us make the attack at once. By using the utmost expedition we shall take him unprepared.”
“That is certain,” said Captain Gordon; “and I do not for a moment doubt that the attack will be successful.”
“I hope the plan meets with your lordship's approval?” said Lord Derwentwater to Kenmure.
The chief commander, however, made no direct answer, but turning to the Northumbrian leader, observed:
“What says General Forster?”
“'Tis a bold step, and requires consideration,” replied the other.
“The blow must be struck at once, or not at all,” said Mackintosh. “While we are deliberating the chance will be lost.”
“We have not sufficient horse,” rejoined Forster.
“We have enow for our purpose,” said Lord Derwentwater. “My lord, in the king's name, I ask you to make the attack.”
“Ha! this sounds like a command,” cried Lord Kenmure, angrily. “Your own general hesitates—if he will go on, I will.”
“For Heaven's sake come to a speedy decision!” said the earl to Forster. “Every minute is precious. There is no risk.”
“I don't know that,” replied Forster. “I won't run headlong into a danger that can be avoided. We may find General Carpenter better prepared for us than we expect. His dragoons are far more numerous than our cavalry.”
“But our horses are fresh, general,” observed Captain Gordon. “I repeat my opinion that a prompt attack would be successful.”
“I won't hazard it,” said Lord Kenmure.
“Then your lordship refuses to lead us to certain victory,” said Lord Derwentwater.
Lord Kenmure shrugged his shoulders.
“I have given you my decision, and I shall adhere to it.”
Lord Derwentwater could not repress an exclamation of rage.
Mackintosh looked equally angry, but felt it was useless to interfere.
“We shall be better prepared on some future day,” observed Forster.
“Never!” exclaimed the brigadier, contemptuously. “Never shall we be better prepared than now! Never shall we have the enemy at greater advantage!''
“At all events, let us stay where we are,” said Lord Derwentwater. “General Carpenter will think we are retreating if we march to Hawick.”
“Nor will he be far wide of the truth if he does think so,” said Mackintosh.
But these expressions of disapproval were entirely unheeded, and the march to Hawick took place, greatly to the annoyance of Lord Derwentwater.
Determined to reconnoitre the enemy, his lordship requested Captain Gordon to accompany him, and set off with a small party of horse towards the Yetholms.
Nothing occurred to indicate that the enemy were on the move till he came within a couple of miles of Kirk-Yetholm, when from the brow of a hill he distinguished their vanguard, and at once comprehended that a part of the force, if not the whole, must be marching to Kelso.
Satisfied with what he had seen, and beginning to be of opinion that General Carpenter would not have been so easily surprised as he imagined, he turned back, and riding quickly, overtook the insurgent army before it reached Hawick.
It afterwards appeared that the earl had narrowly escaped capture, and that he and his companions were indebted for their escape to the swiftness of their horses. Had he descended the hill whence he descried the enemy, he must have been taken prisoner.
Next day symptoms of revolt began to appear among the Highlanders, who had been told by Lord Wintoun that if they went to England they would infallibly be defeated by the superior force brought against them, and would either be cut to pieces, taken prisoners and hanged, or sold as slaves to the plantations.
Assembling on the Moot Hill, at the head of the town, they refused to come down, even at the orders of their chief, and told him if they were led against the enemy they would fight, but that they would not cross the Border.
“Wherefore not?” he cried. “Why the devil are you afraid to fight the Southrons on their aim ground? You are ready to meet them here, but not south of the Solway Firth. Your pay is assured you, and it will be your ain faut if ye dinna double it.”
“But they tell us we shall never come back,” rejoined the sergeant, who acted as spokesman.
“Who tells you so?” demanded the brigadier.
“One who knows what he says, and wouldn't deceive us,” replied the sergeant.
“Zounds, man! do you think I would deceive you?” cried the brigadier. “I tell you that in England you will get plenty to eat and drink—plenty of plunder—whereas in Scotland you have nothing but starvation to expect. Now choose! Will you follow me, who have led you on thus far triumphantly, and will lead you on to further conquest—or desert me, when I most need your services, for one who has neither the will nor the power to reward you?”
“We will follow you, brigadier,” shouted the majority of the men. “Take us where you will.”
“I will first take you where each of you can get a mutchkin of whisky to drink the king's health. You will then prepare to march to Langholm, on the road to Long-town!”
After resting for the night at Langholm, where they had some difficulty in finding quarters, the insurgents continued their march next day, uncertain whether they should proceed to Langholm or Ecclefechan, when a decision was unexpectedly brought about.
While crossing a wide moor, they perceived a party of horsemen coming towards them, and understood from the shouts of these persons that they must be friends.
On a nearer approach the insurgents discovered that the leader of the party was Lord Widdrington. He had just returned from his visit to Lancashire, and had brought with him a very important document, which he was extremely anxious to show to the leaders of the expedition, as it could not fail to govern their future plans.
Upon this, a general halt was called, and the commanders and officers having assembled, Lord Widdrington read his paper to them.
It was to the effect, that if the combined forces of the Scottish Lowlanders and Highlanders, who had risen for King James the Third, would direct their march to Lancashire, the High Church Tories of Manchester and the neighbourhood, and the whole of the Roman Catholic gentry of Lancashire and Cheshire, would rise in a mass, and join them with an army of twenty thousand men.
“Twenty thousand men!” exclaimed Lord Kenmure. “Are you certain of this, my lord?”
“I am certain that our appearance in Lancashire will be the signal of a general rising,” replied Lord Widdrington. “There is a very strong Jacobite feeling throughout the county. But the inhabitants will not rise till we appear.”
“Then we must go to Lancashire,” said Lord Kenmure.
“In three days we shall be in the heart of the county,” said General Forster.
“And surrounded by a host of friends,” cried Lord Widdrington. “I have had promises from all quarters. And you will see that this document bears a number of important names. The first signature is that of my brother-in-law, Mr. Townley, of Townley. The second is that of Mr. Ralph Standish, of Standish. Next follows Sir Francis Anderton, of Lostock. Then come Mr. Shuttle-worth, of Shuttleworth, Mr. Richard Chorley, of Chorley, Mr. Gabriel Hesketh, of Whitehall, near St. Michael's-le-Wyre, and Mr. John Leyburne, of Natesby—all men of good family.”
“But all Roman Catholics, I suppose?” said Lord Ken-mure.
“True, my lord—but they are none the worse for their religion. But there are many other names on the list. Pray look at the document.”
“It is not needful,” replied Lord Kenmure. Then turning to the others, he added, “I am of opinion that we ought forthwith to quit Scotland and march to Lancashire. How say you, my lords and gentlemen? Shall it be so?”
A hearty response was given in the affirmative, with but one dissentient voice—that of Lord Wintoun.
“I am still as much opposed to the plan as ever.” said his lordship. “I have entire faith in Lord Widdrington's representations. I know he is incapable of deceiving us; but I place no reliance on the promises of support he has received. If the Lancashire Jacobites meant to rise, they would not wait for our coming.”
“You do not know them as well as I do, my lord,” said Lord Widdrington. “I can assure you they are in earnest.”
“If you despair of the expedition, my lord, leave it,” said Lord Derwentwater. “But do not throw cold water upon it.”
“No, it shall never be said that the Earl of Wintoun deserted King James's cause,” rejoined the other. “But the day will come when you will bitterly regret that you did not follow my counsel.”
“Meantime, we are well content to march to Lancashire,” said Lord Derwentwater.
“Ay, to Lancashire! to Lancashire!” cried several voices.
The matter being now settled, orders were given to march to Langholm.
Brigadier Mackintosh, however, had a difficult task to get his men to move. When they understood it was decided that the force should march into England, a portion of the Highlanders again rebelled, and refused to proceed further.
Once more the brigadier tried the effect of persuasion, and partly by promises—partly by threats—induced the men to follow him.
They went on very reluctantly for three or four miles, till they drew near the Esk, when the mutineers separating themselves from their comrades, ran towards the river, with the intention of crossing it and flying towards Ecclefechan.
But the brigadier was beforehand with them, and plunging into the stream, drew his sword, and swore he would cut down the first who entered the water.
His aspect was so grim and terrible that he held them in check for a few minutes, during which he was able to reassert his authority, and eventually he succeeded in driving a great number of them back to the ranks.
The confederate forces halted at Langholm, but did not rest there for the night, as it was deemed advisable by the Scottish leaders to enter England without delay. Accordingly they marched on to Longtown, in Cumberland.
On that very day, Brigadier Stanwix, Governor of Carlisle, with sixty militiamen, had ridden over to Longtown, but could obtain no precise information respecting the movements of the rebels. They had been heard of at Hawick, but it was thought they would turn to the west, and crossing the mountains, join the Earl of Mar. No suspicion was entertained that they were marching into England. In fact, as we have shown, their own plans were undecided, until they met Lord Widdrington.
General Carpenter likewise was misled by the intelligence he received, and followed the insurgents no further than Jedburgh. Receiving no further tidings, and being in great want of forage for his troops, he then returned to Newcastle.
Thus owing to a variety of circumstances, the rebels gained two days on their enemies. They took every possible precaution to prevent their arrival at Longtown from becoming known, and were marching joyously to Brampton, in Gilsland—a small place near Naworth Castle—before it was even suspected they were in England.