Second Judicial Declaration of Andrew Ballantyne

It may be around 176 years since Andrew was arrested and the horse stealing trial took place, but I find it endlessly fascinating. Here is a young boy, 19 years old, having to face up to the consequences of his actions. Was Margaret McRae’s version of events true? I’m sure Andrew was not blameless, some youthful drinking and high jinks were involved but was he actually going to sell the horse that he took from the McRae’s croft?

This is the second statement Andrew made to answer his accuser – 

In presence of George Cameron Esquire, Sheriff Substitute of Ross and Cromarty Shires.

Compeared: Andrew Ballantyne present, prisoner in the Jail of Dingwall, another declaration emitted by him at Dingwall upon the eleventh day of June current having been read over to him and he being interrogated he Declares that he adheres thereto as truth.

 Declares that the animal taken by him from Bottacks as mentioned in the said declaration was a small brown mare. Declares that he was in the habit of getting the loan or use of the said mare from the family of Kenneth MacRae the owner.

Declares that he did not offer the mare for sale on his way to or at Fort Augustus to John Fullarton or any other person. Declares and adds that whenever he wanted the mare in course of his residence in Strathpeffer he had only to go and take her and none objected to his doing so. All which he declared to be truth.

Andrew wouldn’t have been given the opportunity to say this himself in court. It was read out for him.

In this extract, Andrew’s desperation and confusion can be heard. He listened to Margaret’s testimony. He declares he was allowed to take the mare before from the McRae’s without any problem. So many questions remain unanswered. What was the relationship between Margaret and Andrew? Margaret was quite a few years older than Andrew. It is interesting that they had met the day before Andrew took the mare. Had something been said between them on that occasion?

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