I told him that was enough,
but that there was a greater, and that was, that he was an
officer of more experience and conduct, and that was the
King's design of appointing brigadiers at this time. He said
Claverhouse had served the King longer in Scotland. I told
him that was yet wider from the purpose, for there were in
the army that had served many years longer than Claverhouse,
and of higher quality, and without disparagement to any,
gallant in their personal courage. By this time I flung from
him, and went straight to the King and represented the case.
He followed, and came to us. But the King changed his mind
and ordered him to draw the commissions both for horse and
foot, and your brother's two days' date before the other; by
which his command is clear before the other. I saw the
commissions signed this afternoon, and they are sent
herewith by Lord Charles Murray. Now, I beseech Your Grace,
say nothing of this to any; nay, not now to your brother.
For Lord Melfort said to Sir Andrew Forrester, that he was
sure there would be a new storm on him. I could not, nor is
[it] fit this should have been kept from you; but you will
find it best for a while to know or take little notice, for
it gives him but ground of talking, and serves no other
end.
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