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The old gravestone bears the marks of having been re-cut since first set up, but part of the inscription, and figures on it, have become nearly obliterated. Among the manuscripts in the possession of the Reformed Presbyterian Synod is the following letter of Sir Robert Hamilton to Robert Smith (at that time a prominent member of the Societies), in which an account of the erection of the stone is given, and the original epitaph is subjoined. The letter, by its date, March 4th, 1702, confirms the statement made in the memorial presented to the Edinburgh Town Council for permission to erect a stone in Greyfriars, that monuments had already been erected in "other places of the nation."
"MY DEAR BILLIE,-I am glad of an opportunity either to hear from you or you from me. The stone is curiously wrought on our Lord's servant at Airdsmoss, with a pleasant epitaph, the Bible open, a hand, arm and shabble; and another stone ready for laying on them [i.e., the martyrs]; I hope to the satisfaction of friends. The gentlemen in that country offering to lead lime and stone for the building a tomb wall about them, if we will be at the pains to build it and our stone.
But I shall give ye the epitaph at Airdsmoss in write.-
Yours as formerly,
Ro. HAMILTON.
" At Hamilton. March
4th 1702,"
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