[fol. 322.] I wish the worthy Armadale would be so good as to give his part of the management from his own mouth. But as I have writ fully by the same hand to the faithful Captain Malcolm MacLeod upon this and some other particulars, to his letter I refer you, and I hope you will join your endeavours with him in serving the cause of truth and justice.
For my own part I am resolved to leave no stone unturn'd to expiscate facts and characters, that so the honest man may be known and revered, and those of the opposite stamp may have their due.
That God Almighty may ever have you, Mrs. MacDonald, and all your concerns in His holy care and protection, is the hearty and earnest prayer of, my dear Sir, your most affectionate friend and very humble servant,
Robert Forbes.
Citadel of Leith, September 7th, 1747.
P.S.—Palinurus has promised to drop me a line by post to inform me of his safe arrival, and about your welfare, and that of other friends. Pray keep him in mind of his promise, and let him not mention any other thing in his letter. Is it possible to get Boisdale's part from himself? I would gladly have it. You see I am exceedingly greedy. Adieu.[147]
Copy of a Letter to Captain Malcolm MacLeod of Castle in Raaza.
[fol. 323.] Dear Sir,—This comes by honest Palinurus to congratulate you upon your safe return to your own place; I wish I could say to your own fireside. But I hope that and all other losses will be made up to you with interest in due time. A mind free from the sting of bitter reflections is a continual feast, and will serve to inspire a man with spirits in a low and suffering state of life, made easy by contentment, whilst others are miserable under a load of riches and power, and must betake themselves to a crowd of company to keep them from thinking.
I hope you are happy in meeting with Mrs. MacLeod in good health. Long may ye live together, and may your happiness increase.