One poem is noted (folio 76) to have been written in 1715 and later revised, those on folios 44, 52 are later than 1722, and the date 1758 is added to the repetition of the title on folio 139 verso. That the author's name is Drummond is proved by the rhyme of the final triplet on folio 55. The probability of his being of the Balhaldie family is increased by the addition in another hand of 'Balhaldies A.1784' on folio 139 verso. He was probably John, younger brother of the Jacobite laird William; from his correspondence in MS.3186 it is clear that John lived in Edinburgh, as did this poet (folio 119), and was well educated, as was this poet (see below); he wrote ‘Memoirs of Sir Ewen Cameron of Locheill’ (posthumously published by the Abbotsford Club, 1842), in whom this poet displays an interest (folios 88, 111 verso). The volume is probably in his own hand.

The verse is competent and fluent. The subjects are historical, personal, and satirical. The author is familiar with ancient and modern Latin literature (Catullus folio 107, Ovid folios 33 verso, 45; Martial folio 106 verso, Juvenal folio 56, George Buchanan folio 36 verso, Archibald Pitcairne folios 109, 115 verso; and other neo-Latin poets folios 108, 126) and with modern European literature (English, folios 30, 76, 99 verso, 126 verso; French folios 110 verso, 117, 123; Italian folios 105 verso, 110 verso; Spanish folio 116 verso; Gaelic folio 111 verso).

The first folio of poetry has been lost, perhaps accidentally; many other folios have been cut out (after folios 33, 55, 75, 111, 139).