"The letters in this book relating to the history of Lieutenant-Colonel Inglis Hamilton were presented to the officers of the Regiment, on the occasion of the celebration of the Bicentenary of the raising of the Regiment, on the 18th of June, 1881, by the family of the late Peter Mackenzie, Esq., author of the 'Reminiscences of Glasgow.' The papers were entrusted to the charge of Mr. Mackenzie by the sisters of Lieut.-Colonel Hamilton.
"John W. Hozier, Lieut.-Colonel.
"Commanding Scots Greys."
"Royal Barracks, Dublin,
"18th June, 1881."
"This book in which the papers are now preserved, was presented by Lieutenant-Colonel Hozier."
"Major-General Hamilton has to acquaint Mr. Anderson that he received on Sunday night a card from Lord Amherst, acquainting him that the King had been pleased to appoint Jamie a cornet in the Royal North British Dragoons, at the same time his Lordship called him James Hamilton. How this has happened he cannot say, as the General has received no explanation, but can assure Mr. Anderson that he gave in his name when in London to the Secretary at War Jas. Anderson; he likewise gave in his name on Watson's return from Glasgow, my godson James Anderson, since which he has heard little until last night, but has wrote this day.
"If the nomination is given in and past recall, the General hopes that Mr. Anderson will agree to it, as it must be of such advantage to the young man. Besides, he has to acquaint Mr. Anderson that he always intended to leave Jamie something handsome at his death, on condition that he bore his name, and will condescend to say, if agreed to, that the annual rent in money, bondes, or stock shall exceed the rents of Murdiestone when the General's father changed his name from Hamilton to Inglis, by virtue of the testator's will.
"The General wishes that Mr. Anderson will observe that this is every day done both in North and South Britain, and was the constant practice among the ancients. On these considerations, and seeing it will save a thousand pounds and enable him to assist Willie and John, which it is the General's purpose to do, he hopes that Mr. Anderson will cheerfully acquiss."
"Murdiestone, 20th May, 1793."
The above letter bears the following most pathetic endorsement:—
"MEMOR.
"J. A.—15th May, 1793.
"A cornet 2 Dragoons.