Memoirs of the Life of Sir Walter Scott, Bart.
Sir Walter Scott to Walter Scott, jun., 28 April 1821
“Abbotsford, April 28, 1821.
“Dear Walter,
“. . . . The great point in the meanwhile is to
acquire such preliminary information as may render you qualified to profit by
Sandhurst when you get thither. Amongst my acquaintance the men of greatest
information have been those who seemed but indifferently situated for the
acquisition of it, but who exerted themselves in proportion to the infrequency
of their opportunities.
“The noble Captain
Ferguson was married on Monday last. I was present at the
bridal, and I assure you the like hath not been seen since the days of
Lesmahago. ![]()
| 64 | LIFE OF SIR WALTER SCOTT. | |
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Like his
prototype, the Captain advanced in a jaunty military step, with a kind of leer
on his face that seemed to quiz the whole affair. You should write to your
brother sportsman and soldier, and wish the veteran joy of his entrance into
the band of Benedicts. Odd enough that I should christen a grandchild and
attend the wedding of a contemporary within two days of each other. I have sent
John of Skye, with Tom, and all the rabblement which they can
collect, to play the pipes, shout, and fire guns below the Captain’s
windows this morning; and I am just going over to hover about on my pony, and
witness their reception. The happy pair returned to Huntly Burn on Saturday;
but yesterday being Sunday, we permitted them to enjoy their pillows in quiet.
This morning they must not expect to get off so well. Pray write soon, and give
me the history of your still-huntings, &c.—Ever yours affectionately,
Sir Adam Ferguson (1771-1855)
Son of the philosopher and classmate and friend of Sir Walter Scott; he served in the
Peninsular Campaign under Wellington, afterwards living on his estate in
Dumfriesshire.
Thomas Purdie (1767-1829)
Sir Walter Scott's forester; they originally met when Purdie was brought before Sheriff
Scott on charges of poaching.
