It had been family tradition that his father was next of kin to the Earl of Stirling, who had died without issue in 1739. This Earldom included grants to vast tracts of land in America, as well as in Scotland.
A jury of Service of the leading men of Edinburgh declared upon the evidence presented to them that he was Earl of Stirling. Under Scottish law this was considered sufficient warrant to assume the title.
It was while his headquarters were at Elizabethtown that Lord Stirling made a daring exploit in capturing the British armed transport, Blue Mountain Valley, of 300 tons burden, mounting six guns and loaded with stores for the British army at Boston. Congress commended him by resolution for this exploit.
General Washington, having witnessed the remarkable bravery and ability of Lord Stirling, immediately endeavored to make an exchange of prisoners so as to regain his services. He succeeded in exchanging
Governor Mortfort Brown, of Florida, for him, and shortly after the evacuation of New York Lord Stirling was enabled to rejoin the army.
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