James Philip of Amryclos, in
Forfarshire, who bore Dundee's standard at Killiecrankie. Lochiel's
biographer does not quote the Latin text, but gives translations of
certain passages. The original manuscript, bearing the date 1691, is now
in the Advocates' Library at Edinburgh. Napier had seen this "Grameis,"
as the work is called, and compared it with the translations, which he
declares to be very imperfect, as, from the specimens he gives, they
undoubtedly are. Macaulay, who never saw the Latin text, owns to have
taken a few touches from the passages quoted in the memoirs for his
inimitable picture of affairs in the Highlands during the days
immediately preceding Killiecrankie; but the passage recording the early
gallantry of the conqueror at Killiecrankie he did not take.[5]
It is unfortunate that the tale of these early years should assume so
controversial a tone. But where all, or almost all, is sheer conjecture,
it is inevitable that the narrative must rest rather on argument than
fact. The precise moment when Claverhouse transferred his services from
the French to the Dutch flag is, in truth, no more certain than the
date of his birth is certain, or his conduct at Saint Andrews, or,
indeed, than it is certain that he ever at any time served under Lewis.
The tale of those English services under the French King is in the last
degree confused and doubtful.
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