, where I
doubt not but we would be numerous.

"I have done all I can to make them believe the King will
land altogether in the west, on purpose to draw their troops
from the north, that we may easier raise the country if the
landing be here. I have said so, and written it to
everybody; and particularly I sent some proclamations to my
Lady Errol, and wrote to her to that purpose, which was
intercepted and carried to Edinburgh, and my Lady taken
prisoner. I believe it has taken the effect I designed; for
the forces are marched out of Kintyre, and I am just now
informed Major-General Mackay is gone from Inverness by
Moray, towards Edinburgh. I know not what troops he has
taken with him as yet; but it is thought he will take the
horse and dragoons (except a few) and most of the standing
forces; which, if he do, it will be a rare occasion for
landing here, and for raising the country. Then, when they
hear of that, they will draw this way, which will again
favour the King's landing. Some think Ely a convenient place
for landing, because you have choice of what side, and the
enemy cannot be on both. Others think the nearer Galloway
the better, because the rebels will have far to march before
they can trouble you. Others think Kirkcudbright or
thereabouts, because of that sea for ships, and that it is
near England. Nobody expects any landing here now, because
it is thought you will alter the design, it having been
discovered. And to friends and all I give out I do not
expect any.

"So I am extremely of opinion this would be an extreme
proper place, unless you be so strong that you need not care
where to land. The truth is, I do not admire their mettle.
The landing of troops will confound them terribly. I had
almost forgot to tell you that the Prince of Orange, as they
say, has written to his Scotch Council, telling them he will
not have his troops any more harassed following me through
the hills, but orders them to draw to the West, where, he
says, a great army is to land; and, at the same time, gives
them accounts that eight sail of men-of-war is coming from
Brest, with fifteen thousand men on board. He knows not
whether they are designed for England or Ireland. I beg you
will send an express before, whatever you do, that I