s no certain account, only it is probable, that
notwithstanding the many struggles he had in asserting the king's
interest, he mostly lived a private life, as most of the noblemen and
gentlemen of the nation did at that time.

But no sooner was the king restored again unto his dominions, than these
lands did again return back unto the old vomit of popery, prelacy and
slavery; and it is inconceivable to express the grief of heart this
godly nobleman sustained, when he beheld not only the carved work of the
sanctuary cut down, by defacing that glorious structure of reformation,
which he had such an eminent hand in erecting and building up, but also
to find himself at the king's mercy, for his accession to the same. He
knew, that next to the marquis of Argyle, he was the butt of the enemies
malice, and he had frequently applied for his majesty's grace, but was
as often refused; so that the violent courses now carrying on, and the
plain invasions upon the liberties and religion of the nation made him
weary of his life; and being then at Edinburgh, he often exhorted his
excellent lady to pray fast, that he might never see the next session of
parliament, else he might follow his dear friend the marquis of Argyle;
and the Lord was pleased to grant his request: For he died in a most
Christian manner at Edinburgh March 15th, 1662, and his corpse was
carried home and interred beside his ancestors.

The most exaggerated praises that can be at present bestowed on this
renowned patriot, the worthy earl of Loudon, must be far below his
merit, who was possessed of such singular prudence, eloquence and
learning, joined with remarkable courage. Which excellent endowments he
invariably applied for the support of our ancient and admirable
constitution, which he maintained upon all hazards and occasions;
whereby he might be truly accounted the chief advocate both for the
civil and religious liberties of the people. To sum up all in a few
words: he was a most exquisite orator in the senate, a refined
politician without what some would say it is impossible to be so, and an
honour to his name, an ornament to this nation, and in every virtue in
politic, social and domestic life, a pattern worthy of imitation. And
although HIS OFFSPRING[119] have hitherto all along retained a sense of
their civil liberties, yet it is to be lamented, that few or none of our
noblemen at this day, will follow his example.

_The Life of Mr. ROBERT BAILEY._