FORBES (FORBES-LESLIE), Jonathan. Aberdeenshire 21.2.1798 — Fyvie, Aberdeenshire 23.12.1877. British (Scottish) Colonial Officer. Son of John F. and Anne Margaret Gregory. Arrived at Ceylon as a young officer of 78th Highlanders in 1826, remained until 1837 advancing to Major. Then Lieutenant-Colonel, some years served in India 1842–4?, retired before 1850. Later on lived in the estate of Rothienorman, inherited from his cousin (and now took the name Leslie). In Ceylon he learned Sinhalese and explored historical sites. Married 1825 Margaret Urquhart, two daughters.
Publications: Eleven years in Ceylon. Comprising sketches of the field sports and natural history of that colony, and an account of its history and antiquities. 1-2. L. 1840.
– Recent Disturbances and Military Executions in Ceylon. 58 p. L. 1850.
Sources: Preface to his 1850 book; Harris 2006, 76ff.; findagrave.com.
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