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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Chronicles of the Canongate + +Author: Sir Walter Scott + +Release Date: November 18, 2009 [EBook #1828] +Last Updated: August 31, 2016 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE *** + + + + +Produced by An Anonymous Volunteer, and David Widger + + + + + + +</pre> + + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE. + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Sir Walter Scott, Bart. + </h2> + <div class="mynote"> + <p> + Transcriber’s Note: Footnotes and references to the notes at the end of + the printed book have been inserted in the etext in square brackets + close to the place where they were indicated by a suffix in the original + text. The notes at the end are now numbered instead of using pages to + identify them as was done in the printed text. + </p> + <p> + Text in italics has been written in capital letters. + </p> + <p> + The Pound Sterling symbol has been written as “L”. + </p> + <br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_INTR1"> INTRODUCTION TO CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_INTR2"> INTRODUCTION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_APPE"> APPENDIX TO INTRODUCTION. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0004"> <b>CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE—INTRODUCTORY</b>. + </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. MR. CHRYSTAL CROFTANGRY’S ACCOUNT OF + HIMSELF. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. IN WHICH MR. CROFTANGRY CONTINUES + HIS STORY. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. MR. CROFTANGRY, INTER ALIA, + REVISITS GLENTANNER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. MR. CROFTANGRY BIDS ADIEU TO + CLYDESDALE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. MR. CROFTANGRY SETTLES IN THE + CANONGATE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. MR. CROFTANGRY’S ACCOUNT OF MRS. + BETHUNE BALIOL. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. MRS. BALIOL ASSISTS MR. CROFTANGRY + IN HIS LITERARY </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0012"> <b>THE HIGHLAND WIDOW</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0018"> <b>THE TWO DROVERS.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_NOTE1"> NOTES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_NOTE2"> NOTES TO CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_NOTE3"> NOTES TO THE HIGHLAND WIDOW. </a> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_INTR1" id="link2H_INTR1"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + INTRODUCTION TO CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE. + </h2> + <p> + The preceding volume of this Collection concluded the last of the pieces + originally published under the NOMINIS UMBRA of The Author of Waverley; + and the circumstances which rendered it impossible for the writer to + continue longer in the possession of his incognito were communicated in + 1827, in the Introduction to the first series of Chronicles of the + Canongate, consisting (besides a biographical sketch of the imaginary + chronicler) of three tales, entitled “The Highland Widow,” “The Two + Drovers,” and “The Surgeon’s Daughter.” In the present volume the two + first named of these pieces are included, together with three detached + stories which appeared the year after, in the elegant compilation called + “The Keepsake.” “The Surgeon’s Daughter” it is thought better to defer + until a succeeding volume, than to + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Begin, and break off in the middle.” + </pre> + <p> + I have, perhaps, said enough on former occasions of the misfortunes which + led to the dropping of that mask under which I had, for a long series of + years, enjoyed so large a portion of public favour. Through the success of + those literary efforts, I had been enabled to indulge most of the tastes + which a retired person of my station might be supposed to entertain. In + the pen of this nameless romancer, I seemed to possess something like the + secret fountain of coined gold and pearls vouchsafed to the traveller of + the Eastern Tale; and no doubt believed that I might venture, without + silly imprudence, to extend my personal expenditure considerably beyond + what I should have thought of, had my means been limited to the competence + which I derived from inheritance, with the moderate income of a + professional situation. I bought, and built, and planted, and was + considered by myself, as by the rest of the world, in the safe possession + of an easy fortune. My riches, however, like the other riches of this + world, were liable to accidents, under which they were ultimately destined + to make unto themselves wings, and fly away. The year 1825, so disastrous + to many branches of industry and commerce, did not spare the market of + literature; and the sudden ruin that fell on so many of the booksellers + could scarcely have been expected to leave unscathed one whose career had + of necessity connected him deeply and extensively with the pecuniary + transactions of that profession. In a word, almost without one note of + premonition, I found myself involved in the sweeping catastrophe of the + unhappy time, and called on to meet the demands of creditors upon + commercial establishments with which my fortunes had long been bound up, + to the extent of no less a sum than one hundred and twenty thousand + pounds. + </p> + <p> + The author having, however rashly, committed his pledges thus largely to + the hazards of trading companies, it behoved him, of course, to abide the + consequences of his conduct, and, with whatever feelings, he surrendered + on the instant every shred of property which he had been accustomed to + call his own. It became vested in the hands of gentlemen whose integrity, + prudence, and intelligence were combined with all possible liberality and + kindness of disposition, and who readily afforded every assistance towards + the execution of plans, in the success of which the author contemplated + the possibility of his ultimate extrication, and which were of such a + nature that, had assistance of this sort been withheld, he could have had + little prospect of carrying them into effect. Among other resources which + occurred was the project of that complete and corrected edition of his + Novels and Romances (whose real parentage had of necessity been disclosed + at the moment of the commercial convulsions alluded to), which has now + advanced with unprecedented favour nearly to its close; but as he purposed + also to continue, for the behoof of those to whom he was indebted, the + exercise of his pen in the same path of literature, so long as the taste + of his countrymen should seem to approve of his efforts, it appeared to + him that it would have been an idle piece of affectation to attempt + getting up a new incognito, after his original visor had been thus dashed + from his brow. Hence the personal narrative prefixed to the first work of + fiction which he put forth after the paternity of the “Waverley Novels” + had come to be publicly ascertained; and though many of the particulars + originally avowed in that Notice have been unavoidably adverted to in the + Prefaces and Notes to some of the preceding volumes of the present + collection, it is now reprinted as it stood at the time, because some + interest is generally attached to a coin or medal struck on a special + occasion, as expressing, perhaps, more faithfully than the same artist + could have afterwards conveyed, the feelings of the moment that gave it + birth. The Introduction to the first series of Chronicles of the Canongate + ran, then, in these words:— + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_INTR2" id="link2H_INTR2"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + INTRODUCTION. + </h2> + <p> + All who are acquainted with the early history of the Italian stage are + aware that Arlecchino is not, in his original conception, a mere worker of + marvels with his wooden sword, a jumper in and out of windows, as upon our + theatre, but, as his party-coloured jacket implies, a buffoon or clown, + whose mouth, far from being eternally closed, as amongst us, is filled, + like that of Touchstone, with quips, and cranks, and witty devices, very + often delivered extempore. It is not easy to trace how he became possessed + of his black vizard, which was anciently made in the resemblance of the + face of a cat; but it seems that the mask was essential to the performance + of the character, as will appear from the following theatrical anecdote:— + </p> + <p> + An actor on the Italian stage permitted at the Foire du St. Germain, in + Paris, was renowned for the wild, venturous, and extravagant wit, the + brilliant sallies and fortunate repartees, with which he prodigally + seasoned the character of the party-coloured jester. Some critics, whose + good-will towards a favourite performer was stronger than their judgment, + took occasion to remonstrate with the successful actor on the subject of + the grotesque vizard. They went wilily to their purpose, observing that + his classical and Attic wit, his delicate vein of humour, his happy turn + for dialogue, were rendered burlesque and ludicrous by this unmeaning and + bizarre disguise, and that those attributes would become far more + impressive if aided by the spirit of his eye and the expression of his + natural features. The actor’s vanity was easily so far engaged as to + induce him to make the experiment. He played Harlequin barefaced, but was + considered on all hands as having made a total failure. He had lost the + audacity which a sense of incognito bestowed, and with it all the reckless + play of raillery which gave vivacity to his original acting. He cursed his + advisers, and resumed his grotesque vizard, but, it is said, without ever + being able to regain the careless and successful levity which the + consciousness of the disguise had formerly bestowed. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps the Author of Waverley is now about to incur a risk of the same + kind, and endanger his popularity by having laid aside his incognito. It + is certainly not a voluntary experiment, like that of Harlequin; for it + was my original intention never to have avowed these works during my + lifetime, and the original manuscripts were carefully preserved (though by + the care of others rather than mine), with the purpose of supplying the + necessary evidence of the truth when the period of announcing it should + arrive. [These manuscripts are at present (August 1831) advertised for + public sale, which is an addition, though a small one, to other + annoyances.] But the affairs of my publishers having, unfortunately, + passed into a management different from their own, I had no right any + longer to rely upon secrecy in that quarter; and thus my mask, like my + Aunt Dinah’s in “Tristram Shandy,” having begun to wax a little threadbare + about the chin, it became time to lay it aside with a good grace, unless I + desired it should fall in pieces from my face, which was now become + likely. + </p> + <p> + Yet I had not the slightest intention of selecting the time and place in + which the disclosure was finally made; nor was there any concert betwixt + my learned and respected friend LORD MEADOWBANK and myself upon that + occasion. It was, as the reader is probably aware, upon the 23rd February + last, at a public meeting, called for establishing a professional + Theatrical Fund in Edinburgh, that the communication took place. Just + before we sat down to table, Lord Meadowbank [One of the Supreme Judges of + Scotland, termed Lords of Council and Session.] asked me privately whether + I was still anxious to preserve my incognito on the subject of what were + called the Waverley Novels? I did not immediately see the purpose of his + lordship’s question, although I certainly might have been led to infer it, + and replied that the secret had now of necessity become known to so many + people that I was indifferent on the subject. Lord Meadowbank was thus + induced, while doing me the great honour of proposing my health to the + meeting, to say something on the subject of these Novels so strongly + connecting them with me as the author, that by remaining silent I must + have stood convicted, either of the actual paternity, or of the still + greater crime of being supposed willing to receive indirectly praise to + which I had no just title. I thus found myself suddenly and unexpectedly + placed in the confessional, and had only time to recollect that I had been + guided thither by a most friendly hand, and could not, perhaps, find a + better public opportunity to lay down a disguise which began to resemble + that of a detected masquerader. + </p> + <p> + I had therefore the task of avowing myself, to the numerous and + respectable company assembled, as the sole and unaided author of these + Novels of Waverley, the paternity of which was likely at one time to have + formed a controversy of some celebrity, for the ingenuity with which some + instructors of the public gave their assurance on the subject was + extremely persevering. I now think it further necessary to say that, while + I take on myself all the merits and demerits attending these compositions, + I am bound to acknowledge with gratitude hints of subjects and legends + which I have received from various quarters, and have occasionally used as + a foundation of my fictitious compositions, or woven up with them in the + shape of episodes. I am bound, in particular, to acknowledge the + unremitting kindness of Mr. Joseph Train, supervisor of excise at + Dumfries, to whose unwearied industry I have been indebted for many + curious traditions and points of antiquarian interest. It was Mr. Train + who brought to my recollection the history of Old Mortality, although I + myself had had a personal interview with that celebrated wanderer so far + back as about 1792, when I found him on his usual task. He was then + engaged in repairing the Gravestones of the Covenanters who had died while + imprisoned in the Castle of Dunnottar, to which many of them were + committed prisoners at the period of Argyle’s rising. Their place of + confinement is still called the Whigs’ Vault. Mr. Train, however, procured + for me far more extensive information concerning this singular person, + whose name was Patterson, than I had been able to acquire during my own + short conversation with him. [See, for some further particulars, the notes + to Old Mortality, in the present collective edition.] He was (as I think I + have somewhere already stated) a native of the parish of Closeburn, in + Dumfriesshire; and it is believed that domestic affliction, as well as + devotional feeling, induced him to commence the wandering mode of life + which he pursued for a very long period. It is more than twenty years + since Robert Patterson’s death, which took place on the highroad near + Lockerby, where he was found exhausted and expiring. The white pony, the + companion of his pilgrimage, was standing by the side of its dying master + the whole furnishing a scene not unfitted for the pencil. These + particulars I had from Mr. Train. + </p> + <p> + Another debt, which I pay most willingly, I owe to an unknown + correspondent (a lady), [The late Mrs. Goldie.] who favoured me with the + history of the upright and high-principled female, whom, in the Heart of + Mid-Lothian, I have termed Jeanie Deans. The circumstance of her refusing + to save her sister’s life by an act of perjury, and undertaking a + pilgrimage to London to obtain her pardon, are both represented as true by + my fair and obliging correspondent; and they led me to consider the + possibility of rendering a fictitious personage interesting by mere + dignity of mind and rectitude of principle, assisted by unpretending good + sense and temper, without any of the beauty, grace, talent, + accomplishment, and wit to which a heroine of romance is supposed to have + a prescriptive right. If the portrait was received with interest by the + public, I am conscious how much it was owing to the truth and force of the + original sketch, which I regret that I am unable to present to the public, + as it was written with much feeling and spirit. + </p> + <p> + Old and odd books, and a considerable collection of family legends, formed + another quarry, so ample that it was much more likely that the strength of + the labourer should be exhausted than that materials should fail. I may + mention, for example’s sake, that the terrible catastrophe of the Bride of + Lammermoor actually occurred in a Scottish family of rank. The female + relative, by whom the melancholy tale was communicated to me many years + since, was a near connection of the family in which the event happened, + and always told it with an appearance of melancholy mystery which enhanced + the interest. She had known in her youth the brother who rode before the + unhappy victim to the fatal altar, who, though then a mere boy, and + occupied almost entirely with the gaiety of his own appearance in the + bridal procession, could not but remark that the hand of his sister was + moist, and cold as that of a statue. It is unnecessary further to withdraw + the veil from this scene of family distress, nor, although it occurred + more than a hundred years since, might it be altogether agreeable to the + representatives of the families concerned in the narrative. It may be + proper to say that the events alone are imitated; but I had neither the + means nor intention of copying the manners, or tracing the characters, of + the persons concerned in the real story. Indeed, I may here state + generally that, although I have deemed historical personages free subjects + of delineation, I have never on any occasion violated the respect due to + private life. It was indeed impossible that traits proper to persons, both + living and dead, with whom I have had intercourse in society, should not + have risen to my pen in such works as Waverley, and those which followed + it. But I have always studied to generalize the portraits, so that they + should still seem, on the whole, the productions of fancy, though + possessing some resemblance to real individuals. Yet I must own my + attempts have not in this last particular been uniformly successful. There + are men whose characters are so peculiarly marked, that the delineation of + some leading and principal feature inevitably places the whole person + before you in his individuality. Thus, the character of Jonathan Oldbuck, + in the Antiquary, was partly founded on that of an old friend of my youth, + to whom I am indebted for introducing me to Shakespeare, and other + invaluable favours; but I thought I had so completely disguised the + likeness that his features could not be recognized by any one now alive. I + was mistaken, however, and indeed had endangered what I desired should be + considered as a secret; for I afterwards learned that a highly-respectable + gentleman, one of the few surviving friends of my father, and an acute + critic, [James Chalmers, Esq., Solicitor at Law, London, who (died during + the publication of the present edition of these Novels. Aug. 1831.)] had + said, upon the appearance of the work, that he was now convinced who was + the author of it, as he recognized in the Antiquary of Monkbarns traces of + the character of a very intimate friend of my father’s family. + </p> + <p> + I may here also notice that the sort of exchange of gallantry which is + represented as taking place betwixt the Baron of Bradwardine and Colonel + Talbot, is a literal fact. The real circumstances of the anecdote, alike + honourable to Whig and Tory, are these:— + </p> + <p> + Alexander Stewart of Invernahyle—a name which I cannot write without + the warmest recollections of gratitude to the friend of my childhood, who + first introduced me to the Highlands, their traditions, and their manners—had + been engaged actively in the troubles of 1745. As he charged at the battle + of Preston with his clan, the Stewarts of Appin, he saw an officer of the + opposite army standing alone by a battery of four cannon, of which he + discharged three on the advancing Highlanders, and then drew his sword. + Invernahyle rushed on him, and required him to surrender. “Never to + rebels!” was the undaunted reply, accompanied with a lunge, which the + Highlander received on his target, but instead of using his sword in + cutting down his now defenceless antagonist, he employed it in parrying + the blow of a Lochaber axe aimed at the officer by the Miller, one of his + own followers, a grim-looking old Highlander, whom I remember to have + seen. Thus overpowered, Lieutenant-Colonel Allan Whitefoord, a gentleman + of rank and consequence, as well as a brave officer, gave up his sword, + and with it his purse and watch, which Invernahyle accepted, to save them + from his followers. After the affair was over, Mr. Stewart sought out his + prisoner, and they were introduced to each other by the celebrated John + Roy Stewart, who acquainted Colonel Whitefoord with the quality of his + captor, and made him aware of the necessity of receiving back his + property, which he was inclined to leave in the hands into which it had + fallen. So great became the confidence established betwixt them, that + Invernahyle obtained from the Chevalier his prisoner’s freedom upon + parole; and soon afterwards, having been sent back to the Highlands to + raise men, he visited Colonel Whitefoord at his own house, and spent two + happy days with him and his Whig friends, without thinking on either side + of the civil war which was then raging. + </p> + <p> + When the battle of Culloden put an end to the hopes of Charles Edward, + Invernahyle, wounded and unable to move, was borne from the field by the + faithful zeal of his retainers. But as he had been a distinguished + Jacobite, his family and property were exposed to the system of vindictive + destruction too generally carried into execution through the country of + the insurgents. It was now Colonel Whitefoord’s turn to exert himself, and + he wearied all the authorities, civil and military, with his solicitations + for pardon to the saver of his life, or at least for a protection for his + wife and family. His applications were for a long time unsuccessful. “I + was found with the mark of the Beast upon me in every list,” was + Invernahyle’s expression. At length Colonel Whitefoord applied to the Duke + of Cumberland, and urged his suit with every argument which he could think + of, being still repulsed, he took his commission from his bosom, and + having said something of his own and his family’s exertions in the cause + of the House of Hanover, begged to resign his situation in their service, + since he could not be permitted to show his gratitude to the person to + whom he owed his life. The duke, struck with his earnestness, desired him + to take up his commission, and granted the protection required for the + family of Invernahyle. + </p> + <p> + The chieftain himself lay concealed in a cave near his own house, before + which a small body of regular soldiers were encamped. He could hear their + muster-roll called every morning, and their drums beat to quarters at + night, and not a change of the sentinels escaped him. As it was suspected + that he was lurking somewhere on the property, his family were closely + watched, and compelled to use the utmost precaution in supplying him with + food. One of his daughters, a child of eight or ten years old, was + employed as the agent least likely to be suspected. She was an instance, + among others, that a time of danger and difficulty creates a premature + sharpness of intellect. She made herself acquainted among the soldiers, + till she became so familiar to them that her motions escaped their notice; + and her practice was to stroll away into the neighbourhood of the cave, + and leave what slender supply of food she carried for that purpose under + some remarkable stone, or the root of some tree, where her father might + find it as he crept by night from his lurking-place. Times became milder, + and my excellent friend was relieved from proscription by the Act of + Indemnity. Such is the interesting story which I have rather injured than + improved by the manner in which it is told in Waverley. + </p> + <p> + This incident, with several other circumstances illustrating the Tales in + question, was communicated by me to my late lamented friend, William + Erskine (a Scottish judge, by the title of Lord Kinedder), who afterwards + reviewed with far too much partiality the Tales of my Landlord, for the + Quarterly Review of January 1817. [Lord Kinedder died in August 1822. + EHEU! (Aug. 1831.)] In the same article are contained other illustrations + of the Novels, with which I supplied my accomplished friend, who took the + trouble to write the review. The reader who is desirous of such + information will find the original of Meg Merrilies, and, I believe, of + one or two other personages of the same cast of character, in the article + referred to. + </p> + <p> + I may also mention that the tragic and savage circumstances which are + represented as preceding the birth of Allan MacAulay in the Legend of + Montrose, really happened in the family of Stewart of Ardvoirlich. The + wager about the candlesticks, whose place was supplied by Highland + torch-bearers, was laid and won by one of the MacDonalds of Keppoch. + </p> + <p> + There can be but little amusement in winnowing out the few grains of truth + which are contained in this mass of empty fiction. I may, however, before + dismissing the subject, allude to the various localities which have been + affixed to some of the scenery introduced into these Novels, by which, for + example, Wolf’s Hope is identified with Fast Castle in Berwickshire, + Tillietudlem with Draphane in Clydesdale, and the valley in the Monastery, + called Glendearg, with the dale of the river Allan, above Lord + Somerville’s villa, near Melrose. I can only say that, in these and other + instances, I had no purpose of describing any particular local spot; and + the resemblance must therefore be of that general kind which necessarily + exists between scenes of the same character. The iron-bound coast of + Scotland affords upon its headlands and promontories fifty such castles as + Wolf’s Hope; every county has a valley more or less resembling Glendearg; + and if castles like Tillietudlem, or mansions like the Baron of + Bradwardine’s, are now less frequently to be met with, it is owing to the + rage of indiscriminate destruction, which has removed or ruined so many + monuments of antiquity, when they were not protected by their inaccessible + situation. [I would particularly intimate the Kaim of Uric, on the eastern + coast of Scotland, as having suggested an idea for the tower called Wolf’s + Crag, which the public more generally identified with the ancient tower of + Fast Castle.] + </p> + <p> + The scraps of poetry which have been in most cases tacked to the beginning + of chapters in these Novels are sometimes quoted either from reading or + from memory, but, in the general case, are pure invention. I found it too + troublesome to turn to the collection of the British Poets to discover + apposite mottoes, and, in the situation of the theatrical mechanist, who, + when the white paper which represented his shower of snow was exhausted, + continued the storm by snowing brown, I drew on my memory as long as I + could, and when that failed, eked it out with invention. I believe that in + some cases, where actual names are affixed to the supposed quotations, it + would be to little purpose to seek them in the works of the authors + referred to. In some cases I have been entertained when Dr. Watts and + other graver authors have been ransacked in vain for stanzas for which the + novelist alone was responsible. + </p> + <p> + And now the reader may expect me, while in the confessional, to explain + the motives why I have so long persisted in disclaiming the works of which + I am now writing. To this it would be difficult to give any other reply, + save that of Corporal Nym—it was the author’s humour or caprice for + the time. I hope it will not be construed into ingratitude to the public, + to whose indulgence I have owed my SANG-FROID much more than to any merit + of my own, if I confess that I am, and have been, more indifferent to + success or to failure as an author, than may be the case with others, who + feel more strongly the passion for literary fame, probably because they + are justly conscious of a better title to it. It was not until I had + attained the age of thirty years that I made any serious attempt at + distinguishing myself as an author; and at that period men’s hopes, + desires, and wishes have usually acquired something of a decisive + character, and are not eagerly and easily diverted into a new channel. + When I made the discovery—for to me it was one—that by amusing + myself with composition, which I felt a delightful occupation, I could + also give pleasure to others, and became aware that literary pursuits were + likely to engage in future a considerable portion of my time, I felt some + alarm that I might acquire those habits of jealousy and fretfulness which + have lessened, and even degraded, the character even of great authors, and + rendered them, by their petty squabbles and mutual irritability, the + laughing-stock of the people of the world. I resolved, therefore, in this + respect to guard my breast—perhaps an unfriendly critic may add, my + brow—with triple brass, [Not altogether impossible, when it is + considered that I have been at the bar since 1792. (Aug. 1831.)] and as + much as possible to avoid resting my thoughts and wishes upon literary + success, lest I should endanger my own peace of mind and tranquillity by + literary failure. It would argue either stupid apathy or ridiculous + affectation to say that I have been insensible to the public applause, + when I have been honoured with its testimonies; and still more highly do I + prize the invaluable friendships which some temporary popularity has + enabled me to form among those of my contemporaries most distinguished by + talents and genius, and which I venture to hope now rest upon a basis more + firm than the circumstances which gave rise to them. Yet, feeling all + these advantages as a man ought to do, and must do, I may say, with truth + and confidence, that I have, I think, tasted of the intoxicating cup with + moderation, and that I have never, either in conversation or + correspondence, encouraged discussions respecting my own literary + pursuits. On the contrary, I have usually found such topics, even when + introduced from motives most flattering to myself, Rather embarrassing and + disagreeable. + </p> + <p> + I have now frankly told my motives for concealment, so far as I am + conscious of having any, and the public will forgive the egotism of the + detail, as what is necessarily connected with it. The author, so long and + loudly called for, has appeared on the stage, and made his obeisance to + the audience. Thus far his conduct is a mark of respect. To linger in + their presence would be intrusion. + </p> + <p> + I have only to repeat that I avow myself in print, as formerly in words, + the sole and unassisted author of all the Novels published as works of + “The Author of Waverley.” I do this without shame, for I am unconscious + that there is any thing in their composition which deserves reproach, + either on the score of religion or morality; and without any feeling of + exultation, because, whatever may have been their temporary success, I am + well aware how much their reputation depends upon the caprice of fashion; + and I have already mentioned the precarious tenure by which it is held, as + a reason for displaying no great avidity in grasping at the possession. + </p> + <p> + I ought to mention, before concluding, that twenty persons, at least, + were, either from intimacy, or from the confidence which circumstances + rendered necessary, participant of this secret; and as there was no + instance, to my knowledge, of any one of the number breaking faith, I am + the more obliged to them, because the slight and trivial character of the + mystery was not qualified to inspire much respect in those entrusted with + it. Nevertheless, like Jack the Giant-Killer, I was fully confident in the + advantage of my “Coat of Darkness;” and had it not been from compulsory + circumstances, I would have, indeed, been very cautious how I parted with + it. + </p> + <p> + As for the work which follows, it was meditated, and in part printed, long + before the avowal of the novels took place, and originally commenced with + a declaration that it was neither to have introduction nor preface of any + kind. This long proem, prefixed to a work intended not to have any, may, + however, serve to show how human purposes in the most trifling, as well as + the most important affairs, are liable to be controlled by the course of + events. Thus we begin to cross a strong river with our eyes and our + resolution fixed on that point of the opposite shore on which we purpose + to land; but gradually giving way to the torrent, are glad, by the aid + perhaps of branch or bush, to extricate ourselves at some distant and + perhaps dangerous landing-place, much farther down the stream than that on + which we had fixed our intentions. + </p> + <p> + Hoping that the Courteous Reader will afford to a known and familiar + acquaintance some portion of the favour which he extended to a disguised + candidate for his applause, I beg leave to subscribe myself his obliged + humble servant, + </p> + <p> + WALTER SCOTT. ABBOTSFORD, OCTOBER 1, 1827. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + Such was the little narrative which I thought proper to put forth in + October 1827; nor have I much to add to it now. About to appear for the + first time in my own name in this department of letters, it occurred to me + that something in the shape of a periodical publication might carry with + it a certain air of novelty, and I was willing to break, if I may so + express it, the abruptness of my personal forthcoming, by investing an + imaginary coadjutor with at least as much distinctness of individual + existence as I had ever previously thought it worth while to bestow on + shadows of the same convenient tribe. Of course, it had never been in my + contemplation to invite the assistance of any real person in the + sustaining of my quasi-editorial character and labours. It had long been + my opinion, that any thing like a literary PICNIC is likely to end in + suggesting comparisons, justly termed odious, and therefore to be avoided; + and, indeed, I had also had some occasion to know, that promises of + assistance, in efforts of that order, are apt to be more magnificent than + the subsequent performance. I therefore planned a Miscellany, to be + dependent, after the old fashion, on my own resources alone, and although + conscious enough that the moment which assigned to the Author of Waverley + “a local habitation and a name,” had seriously endangered his spell, I + felt inclined to adopt the sentiment of my old hero Montrose, and to say + to myself, that in literature, as in war,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “He either fears his fate too much, + Or his deserts are small, + Who dares not put it to the touch, + To win or lose it all.” + </pre> + <p> + To the particulars explanatory of the plan of these Chronicles, which the + reader is presented with in Chapter II. by the imaginary Editor, Mr. + Croftangry, I have now to add, that the lady, termed in his narrative, + Mrs. Bethune Balliol, was designed to shadow out in its leading points the + interesting character of a dear friend of mine, Mrs. Murray Keith, whose + death occurring shortly before, had saddened a wide circle, much attached + to her, as well for her genuine virtue and amiable qualities of + disposition, as for the extent of information which she possessed, and the + delightful manner in which she was used to communicate it. In truth, the + author had, on many occasions, been indebted to her vivid memory for the + SUBSTRATUM of his Scottish fictions, and she accordingly had been, from an + early period, at no loss to fix the Waverley Novels on the right culprit. + </p> + <p> + [The Keiths of Craig, in Kincardineshire, descended from John Keith, + fourth son of William, second Earl Marischal, who got from his father, + about 1480, the lands of Craig, and part of Garvock, in that county. In + Douglas’s Baronage, 443 to 445, is a pedigree of that family. Colonel + Robert Keith of Craig (the seventh in descent from John) by his wife, + Agnes, daughter of Robert Murray of Murrayshall, of the family of + Blackbarony, widow of Colonel Stirling, of the family of Keir, had one son—namely + Robert Keith of Craig, ambassador to the court of Vienna, afterwards to + St. Petersburgh, which latter situation he held at the accession of King + George III.—who died at Edinburgh in 1774. He married Margaret, + second daughter of Sir William Cunningham of Caprington, by Janet, only + child and heiress of Sir James Dick of Prestonfield; and, among other + children of this marriage were the late well-known diplomatist, Sir Robert + Murray Keith, K.B., a general in the army, and for some time ambassador at + Vienna; Sir Basil Keith, Knight, captain in the navy, who died Governor of + Jamaica; and my excellent friend, Anne Murray Keith, who ultimately came + into possession of the family estates, and died not long before the date + of this Introduction (1831).] + </p> + <p> + In the sketch of Chrystal Croftangry’s own history, the author has been + accused of introducing some not polite allusions to respectable living + individuals; but he may safely, he presumes, pass over such an + insinuation. The first of the narratives which Mr. Croftangry proceeds to + lay before the public, “The Highland Widow,” was derived from Mrs. Murray + Keith, and is given, with the exception of a few additional circumstances—the + introduction of which I am rather inclined to regret—very much as + the excellent old lady used to tell the story. Neither the Highland + cicerone Macturk nor the demure washingwoman, were drawn from imagination; + and on re-reading my tale, after the lapse of a few years, and comparing + its effect with my remembrance of my worthy friend’s oral narration, which + was certainly extremely affecting, I cannot but suspect myself of having + marred its simplicity by some of those interpolations, which, at the time + when I penned them, no doubt passed with myself for embellishments. + </p> + <p> + The next tale, entitled “The Two Drovers,” I learned from another old + friend, the late George Constable, Esq. of Wallace-Craigie, near Dundee, + whom I have already introduced to my reader as the original Antiquary of + Monkbarns. He had been present, I think, at the trial at Carlisle, and + seldom mentioned the venerable judges charge to the jury, without shedding + tears,—which had peculiar pathos, as flowing down features, carrying + rather a sarcastic or almost a cynical expression. + </p> + <p> + This worthy gentleman’s reputation for shrewd Scottish sense, knowledge of + our national antiquities, and a racy humour peculiar to himself, must be + still remembered. For myself, I have pride in recording that for many + years we were, in Wordsworth’s language,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “A pair of friends, though I was young, + And ‘George’ was seventy-two.” + </pre> + <p> + W. S. ABBOTSFORD, AUG. 15, 1831. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_APPE" id="link2H_APPE"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + APPENDIX TO INTRODUCTION. + </h2> + <p> + [It has been suggested to the Author that it might be well to reprint here + a detailed account of the public dinner alluded to in the foregoing + Introduction, as given in the newspapers of the time; and the reader is + accordingly presented with the following extract from the EDINBURGH WEEKLY + JOURNAL for Wednesday, 28th February, 1827.] + </p> + <p> + THE THEATRICAL FUND DINNER. + </p> + <p> + Before proceeding with our account of this very interesting festival—for + so it may be termed—it is our duty to present to our readers the + following letter, which we have received from the President:— + </p> + <p> + TO THE EDITOR OF THE “EDINBURGH WEEKLY JOURNAL.” + </p> + <p> + Sir,—I am extremely sorry I have not leisure to correct the copy you + sent me of what I am stated to have said at the dinner for the Theatrical + Fund. I am no orator, and upon such occasions as are alluded to, I say as + well as I can what the time requires. + </p> + <p> + However, I hope your reporter has been more accurate in other instances + than in mine. I have corrected one passage, in which I am made to speak + with great impropriety and petulance, respecting the opinions of those who + do not approve of dramatic entertainments. I have restored what I said, + which was meant to be respectful, as every objection founded in conscience + is, in my opinion, entitled to be so treated. Other errors I left as I + found them, it being of little consequence whether I spoke sense or + nonsense in what was merely intended for the purpose of the hour. + </p> + <p> + I am, sir, + </p> + <p> + Your obedient servant, + </p> + <p> + EDINBURGH, MONDAY. WALTER SCOTT. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + The Theatrical Fund Dinner, which took place on Friday, in the Assembly + Rooms, was conducted with admirable spirit. The Chairman, Sir WALTER + SCOTT, among his other great qualifications, is well fitted to enliven + such an entertainment. His manners are extremely easy, and his style of + speaking simple and natural, yet full of vivacity and point; and he has + the art, if it be art, of relaxing into a certain homeliness of manner, + without losing one particle of his dignity. He thus takes off some of that + solemn formality which belongs to such meetings, and, by his easy, and + graceful familiarity, imparts to them somewhat of the pleasing character + of a private entertainment. Near Sir W. Scott sat the Earl of Fife, Lord + Meadowbank, Sir John Hope of Pinkie, Bart., Admiral Adam, Baron Clerk + Rattray, Gilbert Innes, Esq., James Walker, Esq., Robert Dundas, Esq., + Alexander Smith, Esq., etc. + </p> + <p> + The cloth being removed, “Non nobis, Domine,” was sung by Messrs. Thorne, + Swift, Collier, and Hartley, after which the following toasts were given + from the chair:— + </p> + <p> + “The King”—all the honours. + </p> + <p> + “The Duke of Clarence and the Royal Family.” + </p> + <p> + The CHAIRMAN, in proposing the next toast, which he wished to be drunk in + solemn silence, said it was to the memory of a regretted-prince, whom we + had lately lost. Every individual would at once conjecture to whom he + alluded. He had no intention to dwell on his military merits. They had + been told in the senate; they had been repeated in the cottage; and + whenever a soldier was the theme, his name was never far distant. But it + was chiefly in connection with the business of this meeting, which his + late Royal Highness had condescended in a particular manner to patronize, + that they were called on to drink his health. To that charity he had often + sacrificed his time, and had given up the little leisure which he had from + important business. He was always ready to attend on every occasion of + this kind, and it was in that view that he proposed to drink to the memory + of his late Royal Highness the Duke of York.—Drunk in solemn + silence. + </p> + <p> + The CHAIRMAN then requested that gentlemen would fill a bumper as full as + it would hold, while he would say only a few words. He was in the habit of + hearing speeches, and he knew the feeling with which long ones were + regarded. He was sure that it was perfectly unnecessary for him to enter + into any vindication of the dramatic art, which they had come here to + support. This, however, he considered to be the proper time and proper + occasion for him to say a few words on that love of representation which + was an innate feeling in human nature. It was the first amusement that the + child had. It grew greater as he grew up; and even in the decline of life + nothing amuses so much as when a common tale is told with appropriate + personification. The first thing a child does is to ape his schoolmaster + by flogging a chair. The assuming a character ourselves, or the seeing + others assume an imaginary character, is an enjoyment natural to humanity. + It was implanted in our very nature to take pleasure from such + representations, at proper times and on proper occasions. In all ages the + theatrical art had kept pace with the improvement of mankind, and with the + progress of letters and the fine arts. As man has advanced from the ruder + stages of society, the love of dramatic representations has increased, and + all works of this nature have keen improved in character and in structure. + They had only to turn their eyes to the history of ancient Greece, + although he did not pretend to be very deeply versed in its ancient drama. + Its first tragic poet commanded a body of troops at the battle of + Marathon. Sophocles and Euripides were men of rank in Athens when Athens + was in its highest renown. They shook Athens with their discourses, as + their theatrical works shook the theatre itself. If they turned to France + in the time of Louis the Fourteenth—that era which is the classical + history of that country—they would find that it was referred to by + all Frenchmen as the golden age of the drama there. And also in England in + the time of Queen Elizabeth the drama was at its highest pitch, when the + nation began to mingle deeply and wisely in the general politics of + Europe, not only not receiving laws from others, but giving laws to the + world, and vindicating the rights of mankind. (Cheers.) There have been + various times when the dramatic art subsequently fell into disrepute. Its + professors have been stigmatized, and laws have been passed against them, + less dishonourable to them than to the statesmen by whom they were + proposed, and to the legislators by whom they were adopted. What were the + times in which these laws were passed? Was it not when virtue was seldom + inculcated as a moral duty that we were required to relinquish the most + rational of all our amusements, when the clergy were enjoined celibacy, + and when the laity were denied the right to read their Bibles? He thought + that it must have been from a notion of penance that they erected the + drama into an ideal place of profaneness, and spoke of the theatre as of + the tents of sin. He did not mean to dispute that there were many + excellent persons who thought differently from him, and he disclaimed the + slightest idea of charging them with bigotry or hypocrisy on that account. + He gave them full credit for their tender consciences, in making these + objections, although they did not appear relevant to him. But to these + persons, being, as he believed them, men of worth and piety, he was sure + the purpose of this meeting would furnish some apology for an error, if + there be any, in the opinions of those who attend. They would approve the + gift, although they might differ in other points. Such might not approve + of going to the theatre, but at least could not deny that they might give + away from their superfluity what was required for the relief of the sick, + the support of the aged, and the comfort of the afflicted. These were + duties enjoined by our religion itself. (Loud cheers.) + </p> + <p> + The performers are in a particular manner entitled to the support or + regard, when in old age or distress, of those who have partaken of the + amusements of those places which they render an ornament to society. Their + art was of a peculiarly delicate and precarious nature. They had to serve + a long apprenticeship. It was very long before even the first-rate + geniuses could acquire the mechanical knowledge of the stage business. + They must languish long in obscurity before they can avail themselves of + their natural talents; and after that they have but a short space of time, + during which they are fortunate if they can provide the means of comfort + in the decline of life. That comes late, and lasts but a short time; after + which they are left dependent. Their limbs fail—their teeth are + loosened—their voice is lost and they are left, after giving + happiness to others, in a most disconsolate state. The public were liberal + and generous to those deserving their protection. It was a sad thing to be + dependent on the favour, or, he might say, in plain terms, on the caprice, + of the public; and this more particularly for a class of persons of whom + extreme prudence is not the character. There might be instances of + opportunities being neglected. But let each gentleman tax himself, and + consider the opportunities THEY had neglected, and the sums of money THEY + had wasted; let every gentleman look into his own bosom, and say whether + these were circumstances which would soften his own feelings, were he to + be plunged into distress. He put it to every generous bosom—to every + better feeling—to say what consolation was it to old age to be told + that you might have made provision at a time which had been neglected—(loud + cheers)—and to find it objected, that if you had pleased you might + have been wealthy. He had hitherto been speaking of what, in theatrical + language, was called STARS; but they were sometimes falling ones. There + was another class of sufferers naturally and necessarily connected with + the theatre, without whom it was impossible to go on. The sailors have a + saying, Every man cannot be a boatswain. If there must be a great actor to + act Hamlet, there must also be people to act Laertes, the King, + Rosencrantz, and Guildenstern, otherwise a drama cannot go on. If even + Garrick himself were to rise from the dead, he could not act Hamlet alone. + There must be generals, colonels, commanding-officers, subalterns. But + what are the private soldiers to do? Many have mistaken their own talents, + and have been driven in early youth to try the stage, to which they are + not competent. He would know what to say to the indifferent poet and to + the bad artist. He would say that it was foolish, and he would recommend + to the poet to become a scribe, and the artist to paint sign-posts. (Loud + laughter.) But you could not send the player adrift; for if he cannot play + Hamlet, he must play Guildenstern. Where there are many labourers, wages + must be low and no man in such a situation can decently support a wife and + family, and save something off his income for old age. What is this man to + do in later life? Are you to cast him off like an old hinge, or a piece of + useless machinery, which has done its work? To a person who had + contributed to our amusement, this would be unkind, ungrateful, and + unchristian. His wants are not of his own making, but arise from the + natural sources of sickness and old age. It cannot be denied that there is + one class of sufferers to whom no imprudence can be ascribed, except on + first entering on the profession. After putting his hand to the dramatic + plough, he cannot draw back, but must continue at it, and toil, till death + release him from want, or charity, by its milder influence, steps in to + render that want more tolerable. He had little more to say, except that he + sincerely hoped that the collection to-day, from the number of respectable + gentlemen present, would meet the views entertained by the patrons. He + hoped it would do so. They should not be disheartened. Though they could + not do a great deal, they might do something. They had this consolation, + that everything they parted with from their superfluity would do some + good. They would sleep the better themselves when they had been the means + of giving sleep to others. It was ungrateful and unkind that those who had + sacrificed their youth to our amusement should not receive the reward due + to them, but should be reduced to hard fare in their old age. We cannot + think of poor Falstaff going to bed without his cup of sack, or Macbeth + fed on bones as marrowless as those of Banquo. (Loud cheers and laughter.) + As he believed that they were all as fond of the dramatic art as he was in + his younger days, he would propose that they should drink “The Theatrical + Fund,” with three times three. + </p> + <p> + Mr. MACKAY rose, on behalf of his brethren, to return their thanks for the + toast just drunk. Many of the gentlemen present, he said, were perhaps not + fully acquainted with the nature and intention of the institution, and it + might not be amiss to enter into some explanation on the subject. With + whomsoever the idea of a Theatrical Fund might have originated (and it had + been disputed by the surviving relatives of two or three individuals), + certain it was that the first legally constituted Theatrical Fund owed its + origin to one of the brightest ornaments of the profession, the late David + Garrick. That eminent actor conceived that, by a weekly subscription in + the theatre, a fund might be raised among its members, from which a + portion might be given to those of his less fortunate brethren, and thus + an opportunity would be offered for prudence to provide what fortune had + denied—a comfortable provision for the winter of life. With the + welfare of his profession constantly at heart, the zeal with which he + laboured to uphold its respectability, and to impress upon the minds or + his brethren, not only the necessity, but the blessing of independence, + the Fund became his peculiar care. He drew up a form of laws for its + government, procured at his own expense the passing of an Act of + Parliament for its confirmation, bequeathed to it a handsome legacy, and + thus became the father of the Drury Lane Fund. So constant was his + attachment to this infant establishment, that he chose to grace the close + of the brightest theatrical life on record by the last display of his + transcendent talent on the occasion of a benefit for this child of his + adoption, which ever since has gone by the name of the Garrick Fund. In + imitation of his noble example, funds had been established in several + provincial theatres in England; but it remained for Mrs. Henry Siddons and + Mr. William Murray to become the founders of the first Theatrical Fund in + Scotland. (Cheers.) This Fund commenced under the most favourable + auspices. It was liberally supported by the management, and highly + patronized by the public. Notwithstanding, it fell short in the + accomplishment of its intentions. What those intentions were, he (Mr. + Mackay) need not recapitulate, but they failed; and he did not hesitate to + confess that a want of energy on the part of the performers was the + probable cause. A new set of Rules and Regulations were lately drawn up, + submitted to and approved of at a general meeting of the members of the + Theatre, and accordingly the Fund was remodelled on the 1st of January + last. And here he thought he did but echo the feelings of his brethren, by + publicly acknowledging the obligations they were under to the management + for the aid given and the warm interest they had all along taken in the + welfare of the Fund. (Cheers.) The nature and object of the profession had + been so well treated of by the President that he would say nothing; but of + the numerous offspring of science and genius that court precarious fame, + the actor boasts the slenderest claim of all—the sport of fortune, + the creatures of fashion, and the victims of caprice, they are seen, + heard, and admired, but to be forgot. They leave no trace, no memorial of + their existence—they “come like shadows, so depart.” (Cheers.) Yet + humble though their pretensions be, there was no profession, trade, or + calling where such a combination of requisites, mental and bodily, were + indispensable. In all others the principal may practise after he has been + visited by the afflicting hand of Providence—some by the loss of + limb, some of voice, and many, when the faculty of the mind is on the + wane, may be assisted by dutiful children or devoted servants. Not so the + actor, He must retain all he ever did possess, or sink dejected to a + mournful home. (Applause.) Yet while they are toiling for ephemeral + theatric fame, how very few ever possess the means of hoarding in their + youth that which would give bread in old age! But now a brighter prospect + dawned upon them, and to the success of this their infant establishment + they looked with hope, as to a comfortable and peaceful home in their + declining years. He concluded by tendering to the meeting, in the name of + his brethren and sisters, their unfeigned thanks for their liberal + support, and begged to propose “The Health of the Patrons of the Edinburgh + Theatrical Fund.” (Cheers.) + </p> + <p> + Lord MEADOWBANK said that, by desire of his Hon. Friend in the chair, and + of his Noble Friend at his right hand, he begged leave to return thanks + for the honour which had been conferred on the Patrons of this excellent + institution. He could answer for himself—he could answer for them + all—that they were deeply impressed with the meritorious objects + which it has in view, and of their anxious wish to promote its interests. + For himself, he hoped he might be permitted to say that he was rather + surprised at finding his own name as one of the Patrons, associated with + so many individuals of high rank and powerful influence. But it was an + excuse for those who had placed him in a situation so honourable and so + distinguished, that when this charity was instituted he happened to hold a + high and responsible station under the Crown, when he might have been of + use in assisting and promoting its objects. His Lordship much feared that + he could have little expectation, situated as he now was, of doing either; + but he could confidently assert that few things would give him greater + gratification than being able to contribute to its prosperity and support. + And indeed, when one recollects the pleasure which at all periods of life + he has received from the exhibitions of the stage, and the exertions of + the meritorious individuals for whose aid this Fund has been established, + he must be divested both of gratitude and feeling who would not give his + best endeavours to promote its welfare. And now, that he might in some + measure repay the gratification which had been afforded himself, he would + beg leave to propose a toast, the health of one of the Patrons, a great + and distinguished individual, whose name must always stand by itself, and + which, in an assembly such as this, or in any other assembly of Scotsmen, + can never be received, not, he would say, with ordinary feelings of + pleasure or of delight, but with those of rapture and enthusiasm. In doing + so he felt that he stood in a somewhat new situation. Whoever had been + called upon to propose the health of his Hon. Friend to whom he alluded, + some time ago, would have found himself enabled, from the mystery in which + certain matters were involved, to gratify himself and his auditors by + allusions which found a responding chord in their own feelings, and to + deal in the language, the sincere language, of panegyric, without + intruding on the modesty of the great individual to whom he referred. But + it was no longer possible, consistently with the respect to one’s + auditors, to use upon this subject terms either of mystification or of + obscure or indirect allusion. The clouds have been dispelled; the DARKNESS + VISIBLE has been cleared away; and the Great Unknown—the minstrel of + our native land—the mighty magician who has rolled back the current + of time, and conjured up before our living senses the men and the manners + of days which have long passed away—stands revealed to the hearts + and the eyes of his affectionate and admiring countrymen. If he himself + were capable of imagining all that belonged to this mighty subject—were + he even able to give utterance to all that, as a friend, as a man, and as + a Scotsman, he must feel regarding it—yet knowing, as he well did, + that this illustrious individual was not more distinguished for his + towering talents than for those feelings which rendered such allusions + ungrateful to himself, however sparingly introduced, he would, on that + account, still refrain from doing that which would otherwise be no less + pleasing to him than to his audience. But this his Lordship, hoped he + would be allowed to say (his auditors would not pardon him were he to say + less), we owe to him, as a people, a large and heavy debt of gratitude. He + it is who has opened to foreigners the grand and characteristic beauties + of our country. It is to him that we owe that our gallant ancestors and + the struggles of our illustrious patriots—who fought and bled in + order to obtain and secure that independence and that liberty we now enjoy—have + obtained a fame no longer confined to the boundaries of a remote and + comparatively obscure nation, and who has called down upon their struggles + for glory and freedom the admiration of foreign countries. He it is who + has conferred a new reputation on our national character, and bestowed on + Scotland an imperishable name, were it only by her having given birth to + himself. (Loud and rapturous applause.) + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT certainly did not think that, in coming here to-day, he + would have the task of acknowledging, before three hundred gentlemen, a + secret which, considering that it was communicated to more than twenty + people, had been remarkably well kept. He was now before the bar of his + country, and might be understood to be on trial before Lord Meadowbank as + an offender; yet he was sure that every impartial jury would bring in a + verdict of Not Proven. He did not now think it necessary to enter into the + reasons of his long silence. Perhaps caprice might have a consider able + share in it. He had now to say, however, that the merits of these works, + if they had any, and their faults, were entirely imputable to himself. + (Long and loud cheering.) He was afraid to think on what he had done. + “Look on’t again I dare not.” He had thus far unbosomed himself and he + knew that it would be reported to the public. He meant, then, seriously to + state, that when he said he was the author, he was the total and undivided + author. With the exception of quotations, there was not a single word that + was not derived from himself, or suggested in the course of his reading. + The wand was now broken, and the book buried. You will allow me further to + say, with Prospero, it is your breath that has filled my sails, and to + crave one single toast in the capacity of the author of these novels; and + he would dedicate a bumper to the health of one who has represented some + of those characters, of which he had endeavoured to give the skeleton, + with a degree of liveliness which rendered him grateful. He would propose + “The Health of his friend Bailie Nicol Jarvie”—(loud applause)—and + he was sure that when the author of Waverley and Rob Roy drinks to Nicol + Jarvie, it would be received with that degree of applause to which that + gentleman has always been accustomed, and that they would take care that + on the present occasion it should be PRODIGIOUS! (Long and vehement + applause.) + </p> + <p> + Mr. MACKAY, who here spoke with great humour in the character of Bailie + Jarvie.—My conscience! My worthy father the deacon could not have + believed that his son could hae had sic a compliment paid to him by the + Great Unknown! + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT.—The Small Known now, Mr. Bailie. + </p> + <p> + Mr. MACKAY.—He had been long identified with the Bailie, and he was + vain of the cognomen which he had now worn for eight years; and he + questioned if any of his brethren in the Council had given such universal + satisfaction. (Loud laughter and applause.) Before he sat down, he begged + to propose “The Lord Provost and the City of Edinburgh.” + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT apologized for the absence of the Lord Provost, who had + gone to London on public business. + </p> + <p> + Tune—“Within a mile of Edinburgh town.” + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT gave “The Duke of Wellington and the army.” + </p> + <p> + Glee—“How merrily we live.” + </p> + <p> + “Lord Melville and the Navy, that fought till they left nobody to fight + with, like an arch sportsman who clears all and goes after the game.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. PAT. ROBERTSON.—They had heard this evening a toast, which had + been received with intense delight, which will be published in every + newspaper, and will be hailed with joy by all Europe. He had one toast + assigned him which he had great pleasure in giving. He was sure that the + stage had in all ages a great effect on the morals and manners of the + people. It was very desirable that the stage should be well regulated; and + there was no criterion by which its regulation could be better determined + than by the moral character and personal respectability of the performers. + He was not one of those stern moralists who objected to the theatre. The + most fastidious moralist could not possibly apprehend any injury from the + stage of Edinburgh, as it was presently managed, and so long as it was + adorned by that illustrious individual, Mrs. Henry Siddons, whose public + exhibitions were not more remarkable for feminine grace and delicacy than + was her private character for every virtue which could be admired in + domestic life. He would conclude with reciting a few words from + Shakespeare, in a spirit not of contradiction to those stern moralists who + disliked the theatre, but of meekness: “Good, my lord, will you see the + players well bestowed? Do you hear, let them be well used, for they are + the abstract and brief chronicles of the time.” He then gave “Mrs. Henry + Siddons, and success to the Theatre Royal of Edinburgh.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. MURRAY.—Gentlemen, I rise to return thanks for the honour you + have done Mrs. Siddons, in doing which I am somewhat difficulted, from the + extreme delicacy which attends a brother’s expatiating upon a sister’s + claims to honours publicly paid—(hear, hear)—yet, gentlemen, + your kindness emboldens me to say that, were I to give utterance to all a + brother’s feelings, I should not exaggerate those claims. (Loud applause.) + I therefore, gentlemen, thank you most cordially for the honour you have + done her, and shall now request permission to make an observation on the + establishment of the Edinburgh Theatrical Fund. Mr. Mackay has done Mrs. + Henry Siddons and myself the honour to ascribe the establishment to us. + But no, gentlemen, it owes its origin to a higher source—the + publication of the novel of Rob Roy—the unprecedented success of the + opera adapted from that popular production. (Hear, hear.) It was that + success which relieved the Edinburgh Theatre from its difficulties, and + enabled Mrs. Siddons to carry into effect the establishment of a fund she + had long desired, but was prevented from effecting from the unsettled + state of her theatrical concerns. I therefore hope that in future years, + when the aged and infirm actor derives relief from this fund, he will, in + the language of the gallant Highlander, “Cast his eye to good old + Scotland, and not forget Rob Roy.” (Loud applause.) + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT here stated that Mrs. Siddons wanted the means but not + the will of beginning the Theatrical Fund. He here alluded to the great + merits of Mr. Murray’s management, and to his merits as an actor, which + were of the first order, and of which every person who attends the Theatre + must be sensible; and after alluding to the embarrassments with which the + Theatre had been at one period threatened, he concluded by giving “The + Health of Mr. Murray,” which was drunk with three times three. + </p> + <p> + Mr. MURRAY.—Gentlemen, I wish I could believe that in any degree I + merited the compliments with which it has pleased Sir Walter Scott to + preface the proposal of my health, or the very flattering manner in which + you have done me the honour to receive it. The approbation of such an + assembly is most gratifying to me, and might encourage feelings of vanity, + were not such feelings crushed by my conviction that no man holding the + situation I have so long held in Edinburgh could have failed, placed in + the peculiar circumstances in which I have been placed. Gentlemen, I shall + not insult your good taste by eulogiums upon your judgment or kindly + feeling, though to the first I owe any improvement I may have made as an + actor, and certainly my success as a manager to the second. (Applause.) + When, upon the death of my dear brother, the late Mr. Siddons, it was + proposed that I should undertake the management of the Edinburgh Theatre, + I confess I drew back, doubting my capability to free it from the load of + debt and difficulty with which it was surrounded. In this state of + anxiety, I solicited the advice of one who had ever honoured me with his + kindest regard, and whose name no member of my profession can pronounce + without feelings of the deepest respect and gratitude. I allude to the + late Mr. John Kemble. (Great applause.) To him I applied, and with the + repetition of his advice I shall cease to trespass upon your time—(hear, + hear)—“My dear William, fear not. Integrity and assiduity must prove + an overmatch for all difficulty; and though I approve your not indulging a + vain confidence in your own ability, and viewing with respectful + apprehension the judgment of the audience you have to act before, yet be + assured that judgment will ever be tempered by the feeling that you are + acting for the widow and the fatherless.” (Loud applause.) Gentlemen, + those words have never passed from my mind; and I feel convinced that you + have pardoned my many errors, from the feeling that I was striving for the + widow and the fatherless. (Long and enthusiastic applause followed Mr. + Murray’s address.) + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT gave “The Health of the Stewards.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. VANDENHOFF.—-Mr. President and Gentlemen, the honour conferred + upon the Stewards, in the very flattering compliment you have just paid + us, calls forth our warmest acknowledgments. In tendering you our thanks + for the approbation you have been pleased to express of our humble + exertions, I would beg leave to advert to the cause in which we have been + engaged. Yet, surrounded as I am by the genius—the eloquence—of + this enlightened city, I cannot but feel the presumption which ventures to + address you on so interesting a subject. Accustomed to speak in the + language of others, I feel quite at a loss for terms wherein to clothe the + sentiments excited by the present occasion. (Applause.) The nature of the + institution which has sought your fostering patronage, and the objects + which it contemplates, have been fully explained to you. But, gentlemen, + the relief which it proposes is not a gratuitous relief, but to be + purchased by the individual contribution of its members towards the + general good. This Fund lends no encouragement to idleness or + improvidence, but it offers an opportunity to prudence in vigour and youth + to make provision against the evening of life and its attendant infirmity. + A period is fixed at which we admit the plea of age as an exemption from + professional labour. It is painful to behold the veteran on the stage + (compelled by necessity) contending against physical decay, mocking the + joyousness of mirth with the feebleness of age, when the energies decline, + when the memory fails! and “the big, manly voice, turning again towards + childish treble, pipes and whistles in the sound.” We would remove him + from the mimic scene, where fiction constitutes the charm; we would not + view old age caricaturing itself. (Applause.) But as our means may be + found, in time of need, inadequate to the fulfilment of our wishes—fearful + of raising expectations which we may be unable to gratify—desirous + not “to keep the word of promise to the ear, and break it to the hope”—we + have presumed to court the assistance of the friends of the drama to + strengthen our infant institution. Our appeal has been successful beyond + our most sanguine expectations. The distinguished patronage conferred on + us by your presence on this occasion, and the substantial support which + your benevolence has so liberally afforded to our institution, must + impress every member of the Fund with the most grateful sentiments—sentiments + which no language can express, no time obliterate. (Applause.) I will not + trespass longer on your attention. I would the task of acknowledging our + obligation had fallen into abler hands. (Hear, hear.) In the name of the + Stewards, I most respectfully and cordially thank you for the honour you + have done us, which greatly overpays our poor endeavours. (Applause.) + </p> + <p> + [This speech, though rather inadequately reported, was one of the best + delivered on this occasion. That it was creditable to Mr. Vandenhoff’s + taste and feelings, the preceding sketch will show; but how much it was + so, it does not show.] + </p> + <p> + Mr. J. CAY gave “Professor Wilson and the University of Edinburgh, of + which he was one of the brightest ornaments.” + </p> + <p> + Lord MEADOWBANK, after a suitable eulogium, gave “The Earl of Fife,” which + was drunk with three times three. + </p> + <p> + Earl FIFE expressed his high gratification at the honour conferred on him. + He intimated his approbation of the institution, and his readiness to + promote its success by every means in his power. He concluded with giving + “The Health of the Company of Edinburgh.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. JONES, on rising to return thanks, being received with considerable + applause, said he was truly grateful for the kind encouragement he had + experienced, but the novelty of the situation in which he now was renewed + all the feelings he experienced when he first saw himself announced in the + bills as a young gentleman, being his first appearance on any stage. + (Laughter and applause.) Although in the presence of those whose + indulgence had, in another sphere, so often shielded him from the + penalties of inability, he was unable to execute the task which had so + unexpectedly devolved upon him in behalf of his brethren and himself. He + therefore begged the company to imagine all that grateful hearts could + prompt the most eloquent to utter, and that would be a copy of their + feelings. (Applause.) He begged to trespass another moment on their + attention, for the purpose of expressing the thanks of the members of the + Fund to the Gentlemen of the Edinburgh Professional Society of Musicians, + who, finding that this meeting was appointed to take place on the same + evening with their concert, had, in the handsomest manner, agreed to + postpone it. Although it was his duty thus to preface the toast he had to + propose, he was certain the meeting required no further inducement than + the recollection of the pleasure the exertions of those gentlemen had + often afforded them within those walls, to join heartily in drinking + “Health and Prosperity to the Edinburgh Professional Society of + Musicians.” (Applause.) + </p> + <p> + Mr. PAT. ROBERTSON Proposed “The Health of Mr. Jeffrey,” whose absence was + owing to indisposition. The public was well aware that he was the most + distinguished advocate at the bar. He was likewise distinguished for the + kindness, frankness, and cordial manner in which he communicated with the + junior members of the profession, to the esteem of whom his splendid + talents would always entitle him. + </p> + <p> + Mr. J. MACONOCHIE gave “The Health of Mrs. Siddons, senior, the most + distinguished ornament of the stage.” + </p> + <p> + Sir W. SCOTT said that if anything could reconcile him to old age, it was + the reflection that he had seen the rising as well as the setting sun of + Mrs. Siddons. He remembered well their breakfasting near to the Theatre—waiting + the whole day—the crushing at the doors at six o’clock—and + their going in and counting their fingers till seven o’clock. But the very + first step—the very first word which she uttered—was + sufficient to overpay him for all his labours. The house was literally + electrified; and it was only from witnessing the effects of her genius + that he could guess to what a pitch theatrical excellence could be + carried. Those young gentlemen who have only seen the setting sun of this + distinguished performer, beautiful and serene as that was, must give us + old fellows, who have seen its rise and its meridian, leave to hold our + heads a little higher. + </p> + <p> + Mr. DUNDAS gave “The Memory of Home, the author of Douglas.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. MACKAY here announced that the subscriptions for the night amounted to + L280, and he expressed gratitude for this substantial proof of their + kindness. [We are happy to state that subscriptions have since flowed in + very liberally.] + </p> + <p> + Mr. MACKAY here entertained the company with a pathetic song. + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT apologized for having so long forgotten their native + land. He would now give “Scotland, the land of Cakes.” He would give every + river, every loch, every hill, from Tweed to Johnnie Groat’s house—every + lass in her cottage and countess in her castle—and may her sons + stand by her, as their fathers did before them; and he who would not drink + a bumper to his toast, may he never drink whisky more! + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT here gave “Lord Meadowbank,” who returned thanks. + </p> + <p> + Mr. H. G. BELL said that he should not have ventured to intrude himself + upon the attention of the assembly, did he not feel confident that the + toast he begged to have the honour to propose would make amends for the + very imperfect manner in which he might express his sentiments regarding + it. It had been said that, notwithstanding the mental supremacy of the + present age—notwithstanding that the page of our history was studded + with names destined also for the page of immortality—that the genius + of Shakespeare was extinct, and the fountain of his inspiration dried up. + It might be that these observations were unfortunately correct, or it + might be that we were bewildered with a name, not disappointed of the + reality; for though Shakespeare had brought a Hamlet, an Othello, and a + Macbeth, an Ariel, a Juliet, and a Rosalind, upon the stage, were there + not authors living who had brought as varied, as exquisitely painted, and + as undying a range of characters into our hearts? The shape of the mere + mould into which genius poured its golden treasures was surely a matter of + little moment, let it be called a Tragedy, a Comedy, or a Waverley Novel. + But even among the dramatic authors of the present day, he was unwilling + to allow that there was a great and palpable decline from the glory of + preceding ages, and his toast alone would bear him out in denying the + truth of the proposition. After eulogizing the names of Baillie, Byron, + Coleridge, Maturin, and others, he begged to have the honour of proposing + “The Health of James Sheridan Knowles.” + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT. Gentlemen, I crave a bumper all over. The last toast + reminds me of a neglect of duty. Unaccustomed to a public duty of this + kind, errors in conducting the ceremonial of it may be excused, and + omissions pardoned. Perhaps I have made one or two omissions in the course + of the evening for which I trust you will grant me your pardon and + indulgence. One thing in particular I have omitted, and I would now wish + to make amends for it by a libation of reverence and respect to the memory + of SHAKESPEARE. He was a man of universal genius, and from a period soon + after his own era to the present day he has been universally idolized. + When I come to his honoured name, I am like the sick man who hung up his + crutches at the shrine, and was obliged to confess that he did not walk + better than before. It is indeed difficult, gentlemen, to compare him to + any other individual. The only one to whom I call at all compare him is + the wonderful Arabian dervise, who dived into the body of each, and in + this way became familiar with the thoughts and secrets of their hearts. He + was a man of obscure origin, and, as a player, limited in his + acquirements; but he was born evidently with a universal genius. His eyes + glanced at all the varied aspects of life, and his fancy portrayed with + equal talents the king on the throne and the clown who crackles his + chestnuts at a Christmas fire. Whatever note he takes, he strikes it just + and true, and awakens a corresponding chord in our own bosoms, Gentlemen, + I propose “The Memory of William Shakespeare.” + </p> + <p> + Glee—“Lightly tread, ‘tis hallowed ground.” + </p> + <p> + After the glee, Sir WALTER rose and begged to propose as a toast the + health of a lady, whose living merit is not a little honourable to + Scotland. The toast (said he) is also flattering to the national vanity of + a Scotchman, as the lady whom I intend to propose is a native of this + country. From the public her works have met with the most favourable + reception. One piece of hers, in particular, was often acted here of late + years, and gave pleasure of no mean kind to many brilliant and fashionable + audiences. In her private character she (he begged leave to say) is as + remarkable as in a public sense she is for her genius. In short, he would + in one word name—“Joanna Baillie.” + </p> + <p> + This health being drunk, Mr. THORNE was called on for a song, and sung, + with great taste and feeling, “The Anchor’s Weighed.” + </p> + <p> + W. MENZIES, Esq., Advocate, rose to propose the health of a gentleman for + many years connected at intervals with the dramatic art in Scotland. + Whether we look at the range of characters he performs, or at the capacity + which he evinces in executing those which he undertakes, he is equally to + be admired. In all his parts he is unrivalled. The individual to whom he + alluded is (said he) well known to the gentlemen present, in the + characters of Malvolio, Lord Ogleby, and the Green Man; and in addition to + his other qualities, he merits, for his perfection in these characters, + the grateful sense of this meeting. He would wish, in the first place, to + drink his health as an actor. But he was not less estimable in domestic + life, and as a private gentleman; and when he announced him as one whom + the chairman had honoured with his friendship, he was sure that all + present would cordially join him in drinking “The Health of Mr. Terry.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. WILLIAM ALLAN, banker, said that he did not rise with the intention of + making a speech. He merely wished to contribute in a few words to the + mirth of the evening—an evening which certainly had not passed off + without some blunders. It had been understood—at least he had learnt + or supposed from the expressions of Mr. Pritchard—that it would be + sufficient to put a paper, with the name of the contributor, into the box, + and that the gentleman thus contributing would be called on for the money + next morning. He, for his part, had committed a blunder but it might serve + as a caution to those who may be present at the dinner of next year. He + had merely put in his name, written on a slip of paper, without the money. + But he would recommend that, as some of the gentlemen might be in the same + situation, the box should be again sent round, and he was confident that + they, as well as he, would redeem their error. + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT said that the meeting was somewhat in the situation of + Mrs. Anne Page, who had L300 and possibilities. We have already got, said + he, L280, but I should like, I confess, to have the L300. He would gratify + himself by proposing the health of an honourable person, the Lord Chief + Baron, whom England has sent to us, and connecting with it that of his + “yokefellow on the bench,” as Shakespeare says, Mr. Baron Clerk—The + Court of Exchequer. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Baron CLERK regretted the absence of his learned brother. None, he was + sure, could be more generous in his nature, or more ready to help a + Scottish purpose. + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT,—There is one who ought to be remembered on this + occasion. He is, indeed, well entitled to our grateful recollection—one, + in short, to whom the drama in this city owes much. He succeeded, not + without trouble, and perhaps at some considerable sacrifice, in + establishing a theatre. The younger part of the company may not recollect + the theatre to which I allude, but there are some who with me may remember + by name a place called Carrubber’s Close. There Allan Ramsay established + his little theatre. His own pastoral was not fit for the stage, but it has + its admirers in those who love the Doric language in which it is written; + and it is not without merits of a very peculiar kind. But laying aside all + considerations of his literary merit, Allan was a good, jovial, honest + fellow, who could crack a bottle with the best. “The Memory of Allan + Ramsay.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. MURRAY, on being requested, sung “‘Twas merry in the hall,” and at the + conclusion was greeted with repeated rounds of applause. + </p> + <p> + Mr. JONES.—One omission I conceive has been made. The cause of the + Fund has been ably advocated, but it is still susceptible, in my opinion, + of an additional charm— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Without the smile from partial beauty won, + Oh, what were man?—a world without a sun!” + </pre> + <p> + And there would not be a darker spot in poetry than would be the corner in + Shakespeare Square, if, like its fellow, the Register Office, the Theatre + were deserted by the ladies. They are, in fact, our most attractive stars. + “The Patronesses of the Theatre, the Ladies of the City of Edinburgh.” + This toast I ask leave to drink with all the honours which conviviality + can confer. + </p> + <p> + Mr. PATRICK ROBERTSON would be the last man willingly to introduce any + topic calculated to interrupt the harmony of the evening; yet he felt + himself treading upon ticklish ground when he approached the region of the + Nor’ Loch. He assured the company, however, that he was not about to enter + on the subject of the Improvement Bill. They all knew that if the public + were unanimous—if the consent of all parties were obtained—if + the rights and interests of everybody were therein attended to, saved, + reserved, respected, and excepted—if everybody agreed to it—and, + finally, a most essential point, if nobody opposed it—then, and in + that case, and provided also that due intimation were given, the bill in + question might pass—would pass—or might, could, would, or + should pass—all expenses being defrayed. (Laughter.) He was the + advocate of neither champion, and would neither avail himself of the + absence of the Right Hon. the Lord Provost, nor take advantage of the + non-appearance of his friend, Mr. Cockburn. (Laughter.) But in the midst + of these civic broils there had been elicited a ray of hope that, at some + future period, in Bereford Park, or some other place, if all parties were + consulted and satisfied, and if intimation were duly made at the kirk + doors of all the parishes in Scotland, in terms of the statute in that + behalf provided—the people of Edinburgh might by possibility get a + new Theatre. (Cheers and laughter.) But wherever the belligerent powers + might be pleased to set down this new Theatre, he was sure they all hoped + to meet the Old Company in it. He should therefore propose “Better + Accommodation to the Old Company in the new Theatre, site unknown.”—Mr. + Robertson’s speech was most humorously given, and he sat down amidst loud + cheers and laughter. + </p> + <p> + Sir WALTER SCOTT.—Wherever the new Theatre is built, I hope it will + not be large. There are two errors which we commonly commit—the one + arising from our pride, the other from our poverty. If there are twelve + plans, it is odds but the largest, without any regard to comfort, or an + eye to the probable expense, is adopted. There was the College projected + on this scale, and undertaken in the same manner, and who shall see the + end of it? It has been building all my life, and may probably last during + the lives of my children, and my children’s children. Let not the same + prophetic hymn be sung when we commence a new Theatre, which was performed + on the occasion of laying the foundation-stone of a certain edifice, + “Behold the endless work begun.” Playgoing folks should attend somewhat to + convenience. The new Theatre should, in the first place, be such as may be + finished in eighteen months or two years; and, in the second place, it + should be one in which we can hear our old friends with comfort. It is + better that a moderate-sized house should be crowded now and then, than to + have a large theatre with benches continually empty, to the discouragement + of the actors and the discomfort of the spectators. (Applause.) He then + commented in flattering terms on the genius of Mackenzie and his private + worth, and concluded by proposing “The Health of Henry Mackenzie, Esq.” + </p> + <p> + Immediately afterwards he said:—Gentlemen, it is now wearing late, + and I shall request permission to retire. Like Partridge, I may say, “NON + SUM QUALIS ERAM.” At my time of day I can agree with Lord Ogilvie as to + his rheumatism, and say, “There’s a twinge.” I hope, therefore, you will + excuse me for leaving the chair.—The worthy Baronet then retired + amidst long, loud, and rapturous cheering. + </p> + <p> + Mr. PATRICK ROBERTSON was then called to the chair by common acclamation. + </p> + <p> + Gentlemen, said Mr. Robertson, I take the liberty of asking you to fill a + bumper to the very brim. There is not one of us who will not remember, + while he lives, being present at this day’s festival, and the declaration + made this night by the gentleman who has just left the chair. That + declaration has rent the veil from the features of the Great Unknown—a + name which must now merge in the name of the Great Known. It will be + henceforth coupled with the name of SCOTT, which will become familiar like + a household word. We have heard the confession from his own immortal lips—(cheering)—and + we cannot dwell with too much or too fervent praise on the merits of the + greatest man whom Scotland has produced. + </p> + <p> + After which several other toasts were given, and Mr. Robertson left the + room about half-past eleven. A few choice spirits, however, rallied round + Captain Broadhead of the 7th Hussars, who was called to the chair, and the + festivity was prolonged till an early hour on Saturday morning. + </p> + <p> + The band of the Theatre occupied the gallery, and that of the 7th Hussars + the end of the room, opposite the chair, whose performances were greatly + admired. It is but justice to Mr. Gibb to state that the dinner was very + handsome (though slowly served in), and the wines good. The attention of + the stewards was exemplary. Mr. Murray and Mr. Vandenhoff, with great good + taste, attended on Sir Walter Scott’s right and left, and we know that he + has expressed himself much gratified by their anxious politeness and + sedulity. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h1> + CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE—INTRODUCTORY. + </h1> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. MR. CHRYSTAL CROFTANGRY’S ACCOUNT OF HIMSELF. + </h2> + <h3> + Sic itur ad astra. + </h3> + <p> + “This is the path to heaven.” Such is the ancient motto attached to the + armorial bearings of the Canongate, and which is inscribed, with greater + or less propriety, upon all the public buildings, from the church to the + pillory, in the ancient quarter of Edinburgh which bears, or rather once + bore, the same relation to the Good Town that Westminster does to London, + being still possessed of the palace of the sovereign, as it formerly was + dignified by the residence of the principal nobility and gentry. I may + therefore, with some propriety, put the same motto at the head of the + literary undertaking by which I hope to illustrate the hitherto + undistinguished name of Chrystal Croftangry. + </p> + <p> + The public may desire to know something of an author who pitches at such + height his ambitious expectations. The gentle reader, therefore—for + I am much of Captain Bobadil’s humour, and could to no other extend myself + so far—the GENTLE reader, then, will be pleased to understand that I + am a a Scottish gentleman of the old school, with a fortune, temper, and + person, rather the worse for wear. I have known the world for these forty + years, having written myself man nearly since that period—and I do + not think it is much mended. But this is an opinion which I keep to myself + when I am among younger folk, for I recollect, in my youth, quizzing the + Sexagenarians who carried back their ideas of a perfect state of society + to the days of laced coats and triple ruffles, and some of them to the + blood and blows of the Forty-five. Therefore I am cautious in exercising + the right of censorship, which is supposed to be acquired by men arrived + at, or approaching, the mysterious period of life, when the numbers of + seven and nine multiplied into each other, form what sages have termed the + Grand Climacteric. + </p> + <p> + Of the earlier part of my life it is only necessary to say, that I swept + the boards of the Parliament-House with the skirts of my gown for the + usual number of years during which young Lairds were in my time expected + to keep term—got no fees—laughed, and made others laugh—drank + claret at Bayle’s, Fortune’s, and Walker’s—and ate oysters in the + Covenant Close. + </p> + <p> + Becoming my own master, I flung my gown at the bar-keeper, and commenced + gay man on my own account. In Edinburgh, I ran into all the expensive + society which the place then afforded. When I went to my house in the + shire of Lanark, I emulated to the utmost the expenses of men of large + fortune, and had my hunters, my first-rate pointers, my game-cocks, and + feeders. I can more easily forgive myself for these follies, than for + others of a still more blamable kind, so indifferently cloaked over, that + my poor mother thought herself obliged to leave my habitation, and betake + herself to a small inconvenient jointure-house, which she occupied till + her death. I think, however, I was not exclusively to blame in this + separation, and I believe my mother afterwards condemned herself for being + too hasty. Thank God, the adversity which destroyed the means of + continuing my dissipation, restored me to the affections of my surviving + parent. + </p> + <p> + My course of life could not last. I ran too fast to run long; and when I + would have checked my career, I was perhaps too near the brink of the + precipice. Some mishaps I prepared by my own folly, others came upon me + unawares. I put my estate out to nurse to a fat man of business, who + smothered the babe he should have brought back to me in health and + strength, and, in dispute with this honest gentleman, I found, like a + skilful general, that my position would be most judiciously assumed by + taking it up near the Abbey of Holyrood. [See Note 1.—Holyrood.] It + was then I first became acquainted with the quarter, which my little work + will, I hope, render immortal, and grew familiar with those magnificent + wilds, through which the Kings of Scotland once chased the dark-brown + deer, but which were chiefly recommended to me in those days, by their + being inaccessible to those metaphysical persons, whom the law of the + neighbouring country terms John Doe and Richard Roe. In short, the + precincts of the palace are now best known as being a place of refuge at + any time from all pursuit for civil debt. + </p> + <p> + Dire was the strife betwixt my quondam doer and myself; during which my + motions were circumscribed, like those of some conjured demon, within a + circle, which, “beginning at the northern gate of the King’s Park, thence + running northways, is bounded on the left by the King’s garden-wall, and + the gutter, or kennel, in a line wherewith it crosses the High Street to + the Watergate, and passing through the sewer, is bounded by the walls of + the Tennis Court and Physic Gardens, etc. It then follows the wall of the + churchyard, joins the north west wall of St Ann’s Yards, and going east to + the clackmill-house, turns southward to the turnstile in the King’s Park + wall, and includes the whole King’s Park within the Sanctuary.” + </p> + <p> + These limits, which I abridge from the accurate Maitland, once marked the + Girth, or Asylum, belonging to the Abbey of Holyrood, and which, being + still an appendage to the royal palace, has retained the privilege of an + asylum for civil debt. One would think the space sufficiently extensive + for a man to stretch his limbs in, as, besides a reasonable proportion of + level ground (considering that the scene lies in Scotland), it includes + within its precincts the mountain of Arthur’s Seat and the rocks and + pasture land called Salisbury Crags. But yet it is inexpressible how, + after a certain time had elapsed, I used to long for Sunday, which + permitted me to extend my walk without limitation. During the other six + days of the week I felt a sickness of heart, which, but for the speedy + approach of the hebdomadal day of liberty, I could hardly have endured. I + experienced the impatience of a mastiff who tugs in vain to extend the + limits which his chain permits. + </p> + <p> + Day after day I walked by the side of the kennel which divides the + Sanctuary from the unprivileged part of the Canongate; and though the + month was July, and the scene the old town of Edinburgh, I preferred it to + the fresh air and verdant turf which I might have enjoyed in the King’s + Park, or to the cool and solemn gloom of the portico which surrounds the + palace. To an indifferent person either side of the gutter would have + seemed much the same, the houses equally mean, the children as ragged and + dirty, the carmen as brutal—the whole forming the same picture of + low life in a deserted and impoverished quarter of a large city. But to me + the gutter or kennel was what the brook Kidron was to Shimei: death was + denounced against him should he cross it, doubtless because it was known + to his wisdom who pronounced the doom that, from the time the crossing the + stream was debarred, the devoted man’s desire to transgress the precept + would become irresistible, and he would be sure to draw down on his head + the penalty which he had already justly incurred by cursing the anointed + of God. For my part, all Elysium seemed opening on the other side of the + kennel; and I envied the little blackguards, who, stopping the current + with their little dam-dykes of mud, had a right to stand on either side of + the nasty puddle which best pleased them. I was so childish as even to + make an occasional excursion across, were it only for a few yards, and + felt the triumph of a schoolboy, who, trespassing in an orchard, hurries + back again with a fluttering sensation of joy and terror, betwixt the + pleasure of having executed his purpose and the fear of being taken or + discovered. + </p> + <p> + I have sometimes asked myself what I should have done in case of actual + imprisonment, since I could not bear without impatience a restriction + which is comparatively a mere trifle; but I really could never answer the + question to my own satisfaction. I have all my life hated those + treacherous expedients called MEZZO-TERMINI, and it is possible with this + disposition I might have endured more patiently an absolute privation of + liberty than the more modified restrictions to which my residence in the + Sanctuary at this period subjected me. If, however, the feelings I then + experienced were to increase in intensity according to the difference + between a jail and my actual condition, I must have hanged myself, or + pined to death—there could have been no other alternative. + </p> + <p> + Amongst many companions who forgot and neglected me, of course, when my + difficulties seemed to be inextricable, I had one true friend; and that + friend was a barrister, who knew the laws of his country well, and tracing + them up to the spirit of equity and justice in which they originate, had + repeatedly prevented, by his benevolent and manly exertions, the triumphs + of selfish cunning over simplicity and folly. He undertook my cause, with + the assistance of a solicitor of a character similar to his own. My + quondam doer had ensconced himself chin-deep among legal trenches, + hornworks, and covered ways; but my two protectors shelled him out of his + defences, and I was at length a free man, at liberty to go or stay + wheresoever my mind listed. + </p> + <p> + I left my lodgings as hastily as if it had been a pest-house. I did not + even stop to receive some change that was due to me on settling with my + landlady, and I saw the poor woman stand at her door looking after my + precipitate flight, and shaking her head as she wrapped the silver which + she was counting for me in a separate piece of paper, apart from the store + in her own moleskin purse. An honest Highlandwoman was Janet MacEvoy, and + deserved a greater remuneration, had I possessed the power of bestowing + it. But my eagerness of delight was too extreme to pause for explanation + with Janet. On I pushed through the groups of children, of whose sports I + had been so often a lazy, lounging spectator. I sprung over the gutter as + if it had been the fatal Styx, and I a ghost, which, eluding Pluto’s + authority, was making its escape from Limbo lake. My friend had difficulty + to restrain me from running like a madman up the street; and in spite of + his kindness and hospitality, which soothed me for a day or two, I was not + quite happy until I found myself aboard of a Leith smack, and, standing + down the Firth with a fair wind, might snap my fingers at the retreating + outline of Arthur’s Seat, to the vicinity of which I had been so long + confined. + </p> + <p> + It is not my purpose to trace my future progress through life. I had + extricated myself, or rather had been freed by my friends, from the + brambles and thickets of the law; but, as befell the sheep in the fable, a + great part of my fleece was left behind me. Something remained, however: I + was in the season for exertion, and, as my good mother used to say, there + was always life for living folk. Stern necessity gave my manhood that + prudence which my youth was a stranger to. I faced danger, I endured + fatigue, I sought foreign climates, and proved that I belonged to the + nation which is proverbially patient of labour and prodigal of life. + Independence, like liberty to Virgil’s shepherd, came late, but came at + last, with no great affluence in its train, but bringing enough to support + a decent appearance for the rest of my life, and to induce cousins to be + civil, and gossips to say, “I wonder whom old Croft will make his heir? He + must have picked up something, and I should not be surprised if it prove + more than folk think of.” + </p> + <p> + My first impulse when I returned home was to rush to the house of my + benefactor, the only man who had in my distress interested himself in my + behalf. He was a snuff-taker, and it had been the pride of my heart to + save the IPSA CORPORA of the first score of guineas I could hoard, and to + have them converted into as tasteful a snuff-box as Rundell and Bridge + could devise. This I had thrust for security into the breast of my + waistcoat, while, impatient to transfer it to the person for whom it was + destined, I hastened to his house in Brown Square. When the front of the + house became visible a feeling of alarm checked me. I had been long absent + from Scotland; my friend was some years older than I; he might have been + called to the congregation of the just. I paused, and gazed on the house + as if I had hoped to form some conjecture from the outward appearance + concerning the state of the family within. I know not how it was, but the + lower windows being all closed, and no one stirring, my sinister + forebodings were rather strengthened. I regretted now that I had not made + inquiry before I left the inn where I alighted from the mail-coach. But it + was too late; so I hurried on, eager to know the best or the worst which I + could learn. + </p> + <p> + The brass-plate bearing my friend’s name and designation was still on the + door, and when it was opened the old domestic appeared a good deal older, + I thought, than he ought naturally to have looked, considering the period + of my absence. “Is Mr. Sommerville at home?” said I, pressing forward. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir,” said John, placing himself in opposition to my entrance, “he + is at home, but—” + </p> + <p> + “But he is not in,” said I. “I remember your phrase of old, John. Come, I + will step into his room, and leave a line for him.” + </p> + <p> + John was obviously embarrassed by my familiarity. I was some one, he saw, + whom he ought to recollect. At the same time it was evident he remembered + nothing about me. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, sir, my master is in, and in his own room, but—” + </p> + <p> + I would not hear him out, but passed before him towards the well-known + apartment. A young lady came out of the room a little disturbed, as it + seemed, and said, “John, what is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “A gentleman, Miss Nelly, that insists on seeing my master.” + </p> + <p> + “A very old and deeply-indebted friend,” said I, “that ventures to press + myself on my much-respected benefactor on my return from abroad.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas, sir,” replied she, “my uncle would be happy to see you, but—” + </p> + <p> + At this moment something was heard within the apartment like the falling + of a plate, or glass, and immediately after my friend’s voice called + angrily and eagerly for his niece. She entered the room hastily, and so + did I. But it was to see a spectacle, compared with which that of my + benefactor stretched on his bier would have been a happy one. + </p> + <p> + The easy-chair filled with cushions, the extended limbs swathed in + flannel, the wide wrapping-gown and nightcap, showed illness; but the + dimmed eye, once so replete with living fire—the blabber lip, whose + dilation and compression used to give such character to his animated + countenance—the stammering tongue, that once poured forth such + floods of masculine eloquence, and had often swayed the opinion of the + sages whom he addressed,—all these sad symptoms evinced that my + friend was in the melancholy condition of those in whom the principle of + animal life has unfortunately survived that of mental intelligence. He + gazed a moment at me, but then seemed insensible of my presence, and went + on—he, once the most courteous and well-bred—to babble + unintelligible but violent reproaches against his niece and servant, + because he himself had dropped a teacup in attempting to place it on a + table at his elbow. His eyes caught a momentary fire from his irritation; + but he struggled in vain for words to express himself adequately, as, + looking from his servant to his niece, and then to the table, he laboured + to explain that they had placed it (though it touched his chair) at too + great a distance from him. + </p> + <p> + The young person, who had naturally a resigned Madonna-like expression of + countenance, listened to his impatient chiding with the most humble + submission, checked the servant, whose less delicate feelings would have + entered on his justification, and gradually, by the sweet and soft tone of + her voice, soothed to rest the spirit of causeless irritation. + </p> + <p> + She then cast a look towards me, which expressed, “You see all that + remains of him whom you call friend.” It seemed also to say, “Your longer + presence here can only be distressing to us all.” + </p> + <p> + “Forgive me, young lady,” I said, as well as tears would permit; “I am a + person deeply obliged to your uncle. My name is Croftangry.” + </p> + <p> + “Lord! and that I should not hae minded ye, Maister Croftangry,” said the + servant. “Ay, I mind my master had muckle fash about your job. I hae heard + him order in fresh candles as midnight chappit, and till’t again. Indeed, + ye had aye his gude word, Mr. Croftangry, for a’ that folks said about + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your tongue, John,” said the lady, somewhat angrily; and then + continued, addressing herself to me, “I am sure, sir, you must be sorry to + see my uncle in this state. I know you are his friend. I have heard him + mention your name, and wonder he never heard from you.” A new cut this, + and it went to my heart. But she continued, “I really do not know if it is + right that any should—If my uncle should know you, which I scarce + think possible, he would be much affected, and the doctor says that any + agitation—But here comes Dr. — to give his own opinion.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. — entered. I had left him a middle-aged man. He was now an + elderly one; but still the same benevolent Samaritan, who went about doing + good, and thought the blessings of the poor as good a recompense of his + professional skill as the gold of the rich. + </p> + <p> + He looked at me with surprise, but the young lady said a word of + introduction, and I, who was known to the doctor formerly, hastened to + complete it. He recollected me perfectly, and intimated that he was well + acquainted with the reasons I had for being deeply interested in the fate + of his patient. He gave me a very melancholy account of my poor friend, + drawing me for that purpose a little apart from the lady. “The light of + life,” he said, “was trembling in the socket; he scarcely expected it + would ever leap up even into a momentary flash, but more was impossible.” + He then stepped towards his patient, and put some questions, to which the + poor invalid, though he seemed to recognize the friendly and familiar + voice, answered only in a faltering and uncertain manner. + </p> + <p> + The young lady, in her turn, had drawn back when the doctor approached his + patient. “You see how it is with him,” said the doctor, addressing me. “I + have heard our poor friend, in one of the most eloquent of his pleadings, + give a description of this very disease, which he compared to the tortures + inflicted by Mezentius when he chained the dead to the living. The soul, + he said, is imprisoned in its dungeon of flesh, and though retaining its + natural and unalienable properties, can no more exert them than the + captive enclosed within a prison-house can act as a free agent. Alas! to + see HIM, who could so well describe what this malady was in others, a prey + himself to its infirmities! I shall never forget the solemn tone of + expression with which he summed up the incapacities of the paralytic—the + deafened ear, the dimmed eye, the crippled limbs—in the noble words + of Juvenal,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “‘Omni + Membrorum damno major, dementia, quae nec + Nomina servorum, nec vultum agnoscit amici.’” + </pre> + <p> + As the physician repeated these lines, a flash of intelligence seemed to + revive in the invalid’s eye—sunk again—again struggled, and he + spoke more intelligibly than before, and in the tone of one eager to say + something which he felt would escape him unless said instantly. “A + question of death-bed, a question of death-bed, doctor—a reduction + EX CAPITE LECTI—Withering against Wilibus—about the MORBUS + SONTICUS. I pleaded the cause for the pursuer—I, and—and—why, + I shall forget my own name—I, and—he that was the wittiest and + the best-humoured man living—” + </p> + <p> + The description enabled the doctor to fill up the blank, and the patient + joyfully repeated the name suggested. “Ay, ay,” he said, “just he—Harry—poor + Harry—” The light in his eye died away, and he sunk back in his + easy-chair. + </p> + <p> + “You have now seen more of our poor friend, Mr. Croftangry,” said the + physician, “than I dared venture to promise you; and now I must take my + professional authority on me, and ask you to retire. Miss Sommerville + will, I am sure, let you know if a moment should by any chance occur when + her uncle can see you.” + </p> + <p> + What could I do? I gave my card to the young lady, and taking my offering + from my bosom—“if my poor friend,” I said, with accents as broken + almost as his own, “should ask where this came from, name me, and say from + the most obliged and most grateful man alive. Say, the gold of which it is + composed was saved by grains at a time, and was hoarded with as much + avarice as ever was a miser’s. To bring it here I have come a thousand + miles; and now, alas, I find him thus!” + </p> + <p> + I laid the box on the table, and was retiring with a lingering step. The + eye of the invalid was caught by it, as that of a child by a glittering + toy, and with infantine impatience he faltered out inquiries of his niece. + With gentle mildness she repeated again and again who I was, and why I + came, etc. I was about to turn, and hasten from a scene so painful, when + the physician laid his hand on my sleeve. “Stop,” he said, “there is a + change.” + </p> + <p> + There was, indeed, and a marked one. A faint glow spread over his pallid + features—they seemed to gain the look of intelligence which belongs + to vitality—his eye once more kindled—his lip coloured—and + drawing himself up out of the listless posture he had hitherto maintained, + he rose without assistance. The doctor and the servant ran to give him + their support. He waved them aside, and they were contented to place + themselves in such a position behind as might ensure against accident, + should his newly-acquired strength decay as suddenly as it had revived. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Croftangry,” he said, in the tone of kindness of other days, “I + am glad to see you returned. You find me but poorly; but my little niece + here and Dr. — are very kind. God bless you, my dear friend! We + shall not meet again till we meet in a better world.” + </p> + <p> + I pressed his extended hand to my lips—I pressed it to my bosom—I + would fain have flung myself on my knees; but the doctor, leaving the + patient to the young lady and the servant, who wheeled forward his chair, + and were replacing him in it, hurried me out of the room. “My dear sir,” + he said, “you ought to be satisfied; you have seen our poor invalid more + like his former self than he has been for months, or than he may be + perhaps again until all is over. The whole Faculty could not have assured + such an interval. I must see whether anything can be derived from it to + improve the general health. Pray, begone.” The last argument hurried me + from the spot, agitated by a crowd of feelings, all of them painful. + </p> + <p> + When I had overcome the shock of this great disappointment, I renewed + gradually my acquaintance with one or two old companions, who, though of + infinitely less interest to my feelings than my unfortunate friend, served + to relieve the pressure of actual solitude, and who were not perhaps the + less open to my advances that I was a bachelor somewhat stricken in years, + newly arrived from foreign parts, and certainly independent, if not + wealthy. + </p> + <p> + I was considered as a tolerable subject of speculation by some, and I + could not be burdensome to any. I was therefore, according to the ordinary + rule of Edinburgh hospitality, a welcome guest in several respectable + families. But I found no one who could replace the loss I had sustained in + my best friend and benefactor. I wanted something more than mere + companionship could give me, and where was I to look for it? Among the + scattered remnants of those that had been my gay friends of yore? Alas! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Many a lad I loved was dead, + And many a lass grown old.” + </pre> + <p> + Besides, all community of ties between us had ceased to exist, and such of + former friends as were still in the world held their life in a different + tenor from what I did. + </p> + <p> + Some had become misers, and were as eager in saving sixpence as ever they + had been in spending a guinea. Some had turned agriculturists; their talk + was of oxen, and they were only fit companions for graziers. Some stuck to + cards, and though no longer deep gamblers, rather played small game than + sat out. This I particularly despised. The strong impulse of gaming, alas! + I had felt in my time. It is as intense as it is criminal; but it produces + excitation and interest, and I can conceive how it should become a passion + with strong and powerful minds. But to dribble away life in exchanging + bits of painted pasteboard round a green table for the piddling concern of + a few shillings, can only be excused in folly or superannuation. It is + like riding on a rocking-horse, where your utmost exertion never carries + you a foot forward; it is a kind of mental treadmill, where you are + perpetually climbing, but can never rise an inch. From these hints, my + readers will perceive I am incapacitated for one of the pleasures of old + age, which, though not mentioned by Cicero, is not the least frequent + resource in the present day—the club-room, and the snug hand at + whist. + </p> + <p> + To return to my old companions. Some frequented public assemblies, like + the ghost of Beau Nash, or any other beau of half a century back, thrust + aside by tittering youth, and pitied by those of their own age. In fine, + some went into devotion, as the French term it, and others, I fear, went + to the devil; a few found resources in science and letters; one or two + turned philosophers in a small way, peeped into microscopes, and became + familiar with the fashionable experiments of the day; some took to + reading, and I was one of them. + </p> + <p> + Some grains of repulsion towards the society around me—some painful + recollections of early faults and follies—some touch of displeasure + with living mankind—inclined me rather to a study of antiquities, + and particularly those of my own country. The reader, if I can prevail on + myself to continue the present work, will probably be able to judge in the + course of it whether I have made any useful progress in the study of the + olden times. + </p> + <p> + I owed this turn of study, in part, to the conversation of my kind man of + business, Mr. Fairscribe, whom I mentioned as having seconded the efforts + of my invaluable friend in bringing the cause on which my liberty and the + remnant of my property depended to a favourable decision. He had given me + a most kind reception on my return. He was too much engaged in his + profession for me to intrude on him often, and perhaps his mind was too + much trammelled with its details to permit his being willingly withdrawn + from them. In short, he was not a person of my poor friend Sommerville’s + expanded spirit, and rather a lawyer of the ordinary class of formalists; + but a most able and excellent man. When my estate was sold! he retained + some of the older title-deeds, arguing, from his own feelings, that they + would be of more consequence to the heir of the old family than to the new + purchaser. And when I returned to Edinburgh, and found him still in the + exercise of the profession to which he was an honour, he sent to my + lodgings the old family Bible, which lay always on my father’s table, two + or three other mouldy volumes, and a couple of sheepskin bags full of + parchments and papers, whose appearance was by no means inviting. + </p> + <p> + The next time I shared Mr. Fairscribe’s hospitable dinner, I failed not to + return him due thanks for his kindness, which acknowledgment, indeed, I + proportioned rather to the idea which I knew he entertained of the value + of such things, than to the interest with which I myself regarded them. + But the conversation turning on my family, who were old proprietors in the + Upper Ward of Clydesdale, gradually excited some interest in my mind and + when I retired to my solitary parlour, the first thing I did was to look + for a pedigree or sort of history of the family or House of Croftangry, + once of that Ilk, latterly of Glentanner. The discoveries which I made + shall enrich the next chapter. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. IN WHICH MR. CROFTANGRY CONTINUES HIS STORY. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “What’s property, dear Swift? I see it alter + From you to me, from me to Peter Walter.” + </pre> + <p> + “Croftangry—Croftandrew—Croftanridge—Croftandgrey for sa + mony wise hath the name been spellit—is weel known to be ane house + of grit antiquity; and it is said that King Milcolumb, or Malcolm, being + the first of our Scottish princes quha removit across the Firth of Forth, + did reside and occupy ane palace at Edinburgh, and had there ane valziant + man, who did him man-service by keeping the croft, or corn-land, which was + tilled for the convenience of the King’s household, and was thence callit + Croft-an-ri, that is to say, the King his croft; quhilk place, though now + coverit with biggings, is to this day called Croftangry, and lyeth near to + the royal palace. And whereas that some of those who bear this auld and + honourable name may take scorn that it ariseth from the tilling of the + ground, quhilk men account a slavish occupation, yet we ought to honour + the pleugh and spade, seeing we all derive our being from our father Adam, + whose lot it became to cultivate the earth, in respect of his fall and + transgression. + </p> + <p> + “Also we have witness, as weel in holy writt as in profane history, of the + honour in quhilk husbandrie was held of old, and how prophets have been + taken from the pleugh, and great captains raised up to defend their ain + countries, sic as Cincinnatus, and the like, who fought not the common + enemy with the less valiancy that their alms had been exercised in halding + the stilts of the pleugh, and their bellicose skill in driving of yauds + and owsen. + </p> + <p> + “Likewise there are sindry honorable families, quhilk are now of our + native Scottish nobility, and have clombe higher up the brae of preferment + than what this house of Croftangry hath done, quhilk shame not to carry in + their warlike shield and insignia of dignity the tools and implements the + quhilk their first forefathers exercised in labouring the croft-rig, or, + as the poet Virgilius calleth it eloquently, in subduing the soil, and no + doubt this ancient house of Croftangry, while it continued to be called of + that Ilk, produced many worshipful and famous patriots, of quhom I now + praetermit the names; it being my purpose, if God shall spare me life for + sic ane pious officium, or duty, to resume the first part of my narrative + touching the house of Croftangry, when I can set down at length the + evidents and historical witness anent the facts which I shall allege, + seeing that words, when they are unsupported by proofs, are like seed sown + on the naked rocks, or like an house biggit on the flitting and faithless + sands.” + </p> + <p> + Here I stopped to draw breath; for the style of my grandsire, the inditer + of this goodly matter, was rather lengthy, as our American friends say. + Indeed, I reserve the rest of the piece until I can obtain admission to + the Bannatine Club, [This Club, of which the Author of Waverley has the + honour to be President, was instituted in February 1823, for the purpose + of printing and publishing works illustrative of the history, literature, + and antiquities of Scotland. It continues to prosper, and has already + rescued from oblivion many curious materials of Scottish history.] when I + propose to throw off an edition, limited according to the rules of that + erudite Society, with a facsimile of the manuscript, emblazonry of the + family arms surrounded by their quartering, and a handsome disclamation of + family pride, with HAEC NOS NOVIMUS ESSE NIHIL, or VIX EA NOSTRA VOCO. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, to speak truth, I cannot but suspect that, though my + worthy ancestor puffed vigorously to swell up the dignity of his family, + we had never, in fact, risen above the rank of middling proprietors. The + estate of Glentanner came to us by the intermarriage of my ancestor with + Tib Sommeril, termed by the southrons Sommerville, a daughter of that + noble house, but, I fear, on what my great-grandsire calls “the wrong side + of the blanket.” [The ancient Norman family of the Sommervilles came into + this island with William the Conqueror, and established one branch in + Gloucestershire, another in Scotland. After the lapse of seven hundred + years, the remaining possessions of these two branches were united in the + person of the late Lord Sommerville, on the death of his English kinsman, + the well-known author of “The Chase.”] Her husband, Gilbert, was killed + fighting, as the INQUISITIO POST MORTEM has it, “SUB VEXILLO REGIS, APUD + PRAELIUM JUXTA BRANXTON, LIE FLODDDEN-FIELD.” + </p> + <p> + We had our share in other national misfortunes—were forfeited, like + Sir John Colville of the Dale, for following our betters to the field of + Langside; and in the contentious times of the last Stewarts we were + severely fined for harbouring and resetting intercommuned ministers, and + narrowly escaped giving a martyr to the Calendar of the Covenant, in the + person of the father of our family historian. He “took the sheaf from the + mare,” however, as the MS. expresses it, and agreed to accept of the terms + of pardon offered by Government, and sign the bond in evidence he would + give no further ground of offence. My grandsire glosses over his father’s + backsliding as smoothly as he can, and comforts himself with ascribing his + want of resolution to his unwillingness to wreck the ancient name and + family, and to permit his lands and lineage to fall under a doom of + forfeiture. + </p> + <p> + “And indeed,” said the venerable compiler, “as, praised be God, we seldom + meet in Scotland with these belly-gods and voluptuaries, whilk are + unnatural enough to devour their patrimony bequeathed to them by their + forbears in chambering and wantonness, so that they come, with the + prodigal son, to the husks and the swine-trough; and as I have the less to + dreid the existence of such unnatural Neroes in mine own family to devour + the substance of their own house like brute beasts out of mere gluttonie + and Epicurishnesse, so I need only warn mine descendants against + over-hastily meddling with the mutations in state and in religion, which + have been near-hand to the bringing this poor house of Croftangry to + perdition, as we have shown more than once. And albeit I would not that my + successors sat still altogether when called on by their duty to Kirk and + King, yet I would have them wait till stronger and walthier men than + themselves were up, so that either they may have the better chance of + getting through the day, or, failing of that, the conquering party having + some fatter quarry to live upon, may, like gorged hawks, spare the smaller + game.” + </p> + <p> + There was something in this conclusion which at first reading piqued me + extremely, and I was so unnatural as to curse the whole concern, as poor, + bald, pitiful trash, in which a silly old man was saying a great deal + about nothing at all. Nay, my first impression was to thrust it into the + fire, the rather that it reminded me, in no very flattering manner, of the + loss of the family property, to which the compiler of the history was so + much attached, in the very manner which he most severely reprobated. It + even seemed to my aggrieved feelings that his unprescient gaze on + futurity, in which he could not anticipate the folly of one of his + descendants, who should throw away the whole inheritance in a few years of + idle expense and folly, was meant as a personal incivility to myself, + though written fifty or sixty years before I was born. + </p> + <p> + A little reflection made me ashamed or this feeling of impatience, and as + I looked at the even, concise, yet tremulous hand in which the manuscript + was written, I could not help thinking, according to an opinion I have + heard seriously maintained, that something of a man’s character may be + conjectured from his handwriting. That neat but crowded and constrained + small-hand argued a man of a good conscience, well-regulated passions, + and, to use his own phrase, an upright walk in life; but it also indicated + narrowness of spirit, inveterate prejudice, and hinted at some degree of + intolerance, which, though not natural to the disposition, had arisen out + of a limited education. The passages from Scripture and the classics, + rather profusely than happily introduced, and written in a half-text + character to mark their importance, illustrated that peculiar sort of + pedantry which always considers the argument as gained if secured by a + quotation. Then the flourished capital letters, which ornamented the + commencement of each paragraph, and the names of his family and of his + ancestors whenever these occurred in the page, do they not express + forcibly the pride and sense of importance with which the author undertook + and accomplished his task? I persuaded myself the whole was so complete a + portrait of the man, that it would not have been a more undutiful act to + have defaced his picture, or even to have disturbed his bones in his + coffin, than to destroy his manuscript. I thought, for a moment, of + presenting it to Mr. Fairscribe; but that confounded passage about the + prodigal and swine-trough—I settled at last it was as well to lock + it up in my own bureau, with the intention to look at it no more. + </p> + <p> + But I do not know how it was, that the subject began to sit nearer my + heart than I was aware of, and I found myself repeatedly engaged in + reading descriptions of farms which were no longer mine, and boundaries + which marked the property of others. A love of the NATALE SOLUM, if Swift + be right in translating these words, “family estate,” began to awaken in + my bosom—the recollections of my own youth adding little to it, save + what was connected with field-sports. A career of pleasure is unfavourable + for acquiring a taste for natural beauty, and still more so for forming + associations of a sentimental kind, connecting us with the inanimate + objects around us. + </p> + <p> + I had thought little about my estate while I possessed and was wasting it, + unless as affording the rude materials out of which a certain inferior + race of creatures, called tenants, were bound to produce (in a greater + quantity than they actually did) a certain return called rent, which was + destined to supply my expenses. This was my general view of the matter. Of + particular places, I recollected that Garval Hill was a famous piece of + rough upland pasture for rearing young colts, and teaching them to throw + their feet; that Minion Burn had the finest yellow trout in the country; + that Seggy-cleugh was unequalled for woodcocks; that Bengibbert Moors + afforded excellent moorfowl-shooting; and that the clear, bubbling + fountain called the Harper’s Well was the best recipe in the world on the + morning after a HARD-GO with my neighbour fox-hunters. Still, these ideas + recalled, by degrees, pictures of which I had since learned to appreciate + the merit—scenes of silent loneliness, where extensive moors, + undulating into wild hills, were only disturbed by the whistle of the + plover or the crow of the heathcock; wild ravines creeping up into + mountains, filled with natural wood, and which, when traced downwards + along the path formed by shepherds and nutters, were found gradually to + enlarge and deepen, as each formed a channel to its own brook, sometimes + bordered by steep banks of earth, often with the more romantic boundary of + naked rocks or cliffs crested with oak, mountain ash, and hazel—all + gratifying the eye the more that the scenery was, from the bare nature of + the country around, totally unexpected. + </p> + <p> + I had recollections, too, of fair and fertile holms, or level plains, + extending between the wooded banks and the bold stream of the Clyde, + which, coloured like pure amber, or rather having the hue of the pebbles + called Cairngorm, rushes over sheets of rock and beds of gravel, inspiring + a species of awe from the few and faithless fords which it presents, and + the frequency of fatal accidents, now diminished by the number of bridges. + These alluvial holms were frequently bordered by triple and quadruple rows + of large trees, which gracefully marked their boundary, and dipped their + long arms into the foaming stream of the river. Other places I remembered, + which had been described by the old huntsman as the lodge of tremendous + wild-cats, or the spot where tradition stated the mighty stag to have been + brought to bay, or where heroes, whose might was now as much forgotten, + were said to have been slain by surprise, or in battle. + </p> + <p> + It is not to be supposed that these finished landscapes became visible + before the eyes of my imagination, as the scenery of the stage is + disclosed by the rising of the curtain. I have said that I had looked upon + the country around me, during the hurried and dissipated period of my + life, with the eyes, indeed, of my body, but without those of my + understanding. It was piece by piece, as a child picks out its lesson, + that I began to recollect the beauties of nature which had once surrounded + me in the home of my forefathers. A natural taste for them must have + lurked at the bottom of my heart, which awakened when I was in foreign + countries, and becoming by degrees a favourite passion, gradually turned + its eyes inwards, and ransacked the neglected stores which my memory had + involuntarily recorded, and, when excited, exerted herself to collect and + to complete. + </p> + <p> + I began now to regret more bitterly than ever the having fooled away my + family property, the care and improvement of which I saw might have + afforded an agreeable employment for my leisure, which only went to brood + on past misfortunes, and increase useless repining. “Had but a single farm + been reserved, however small,” said I one day to Mr. Fairscribe, “I should + have had a place I could call my home, and something that I could call + business.” + </p> + <p> + “It might have been managed,” answered Fairscribe; “and for my part, I + inclined to keep the mansion house, mains, and some of the old family + acres together; but both Mr. — and you were of opinion that the + money would be more useful.” + </p> + <p> + “True, true, my good friend,” said I; “I was a fool then, and did not + think I could incline to be Glentanner with L200 or L300 a year, instead + of Glentanner with as many thousands. I was then a haughty, pettish, + ignorant, dissipated, broken-down Scottish laird; and thinking my + imaginary consequence altogether ruined, I cared not how soon, or how + absolutely, I was rid of everything that recalled it to my own memory, or + that of others.” + </p> + <p> + “And now it is like you have changed your mind?” said Fairscribe. “Well, + fortune is apt to circumduce the term upon us; but I think she may allow + you to revise your condescendence.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you mean, my good friend?” + </p> + <p> + “Nay,” said Fairscribe, “there is ill luck in averring till one is sure of + his facts. I will look back on a file of newspapers, and to-morrow you + shall hear from me. Come, help yourself—I have seen you fill your + glass higher.” + </p> + <p> + “And shall see it again,” said I, pouring out what remained of our bottle + of claret; “the wine is capital, and so shall our toast be—‘To your + fireside, my good friend.’ And now we shall go beg a Scots song without + foreign graces from my little siren, Miss Katie.” + </p> + <p> + The next day, accordingly, I received a parcel from Mr. Fairscribe with a + newspaper enclosed, among the advertisements of which one was marked with + a cross as requiring my attention. I read, to my surprise:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “DESIRABLE ESTATE FOR SALE. +</pre> + <p> + “By order of the Lords of Council and Session, will be exposed to sale in + the New Sessions House of Edinburgh, on Wednesday, the 25th November, 18—, + all and whole the lands and barony of Glentanner, now called Castle + Treddles, lying in the Middle Ward of Clydesdale, and shire of Lanark, + with the teinds, parsonage and vicarage, fishings in the Clyde, woods, + mosses, moors, and pasturages,” etc., etc. + </p> + <p> + The advertisement went on to set forth the advantages of the soil, + situation, natural beauties, and capabilities of improvement, not + forgetting its being a freehold estate, with the particular polypus + capacity of being sliced up into two, three, or, with a little assistance, + four freehold qualifications, and a hint that the county was likely to be + eagerly contested between two great families. The upset price at which + “the said lands and barony and others” were to be exposed was thirty + years’ purchase of the proven rental, which was about a fourth more than + the property had fetched at the last sale. This, which was mentioned, I + suppose, to show the improvable character of the land, would have given + another some pain. But let me speak truth of myself in good as in evil—it + pained not me. I was only angry that Fairscribe, who knew something + generally of the extent of my funds, should have tantalized me by sending + me information that my family property was in the market, since he must + have known that the price was far out of my reach. + </p> + <p> + But a letter dropped from the parcel on the floor, which attracted my eye, + and explained the riddle. A client of Mr. Fairscribe’s, a moneyed man, + thought of buying Glentanner, merely as an investment of money—it + was even unlikely he would ever see it; and so the price of the whole + being some thousand pounds beyond what cash he had on hand, this + accommodating Dives would gladly take a partner in the sale for any + detached farm, and would make no objection to its including the most + desirable part of the estate in point of beauty, provided the price was + made adequate. Mr. Fairscribe would take care I was not imposed on in the + matter, and said in his card he believed, if I really wished to make such + a purchase, I had better go out and look at the premises, advising me, at + the same time, to keep a strict incognito—an advice somewhat + superfluous, since I am naturally of a retired and reserved disposition. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. MR. CROFTANGRY, INTER ALIA, REVISITS GLENTANNER. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Then sing of stage-coaches, + And fear no reproaches + For riding in one; + But daily be jogging, + Whilst, whistling and flogging, + Whilst, whistling and flogging, + The coachman drives on. FARQUHAR. +</pre> + <p> + Disguised in a grey surtout which had seen service, a white castor on my + head, and a stout Indian cane in my hand, the next week saw me on the top + of a mail-coach driving to the westward. + </p> + <p> + I like mail-coaches, and I hate them. I like them for my convenience; but + I detest them for setting the whole world a-gadding, instead of sitting + quietly still minding their own business, and preserving the stamp of + originality of character which nature or education may have impressed on + them. Off they go, jingling against each other in the rattling vehicle + till they have no more variety of stamp in them than so many smooth + shillings—the same even in their Welsh wigs and greatcoats, each + without more individuality than belongs to a partner of the company, as + the waiter calls them, of the North Coach. + </p> + <p> + Worthy Mr. Piper, best of contractors who ever furnished four frampal + jades for public use, I bless you when I set out on a journey myself; the + neat coaches under your contract render the intercourse, from Johnnie + Groat’s House to Ladykirk and Cornhill Bridge, safe, pleasant, and cheap. + But, Mr. Piper, you who are a shrewd arithmetician, did it never occur to + you to calculate how many fools’ heads, which might have produced an idea + or two in the year, if suffered to remain in quiet, get effectually addled + by jolting to and fro in these flying chariots of yours; how many decent + countrymen become conceited bumpkins after a cattle-show dinner in the + capital, which they could not have attended save for your means; how many + decent country parsons return critics and spouters, by way of importing + the newest taste from Edinburgh? And how will your conscience answer one + day for carrying so many bonny lasses to barter modesty for conceit and + levity at the metropolitan Vanity Fair? + </p> + <p> + Consider, too, the low rate to which you reduce human intellect. I do not + believe your habitual customers have their ideas more enlarged than one of + your coach-horses. They KNOWS the road, like the English postilion, and + they know nothing besides. They date, like the carriers at Gadshill, from + the death of Robin Ostler; [See Act II. Scene 1 of the First Part of + Shakespeare’s Henry IV.] the succession of guards forms a dynasty in their + eyes; coachmen are their ministers of state; and an upset is to them a + greater incident than a change of administration. Their only point of + interest on the road is to save the time, and see whether the coach keeps + the hour. This is surely a miserable degradation of human intellect. Take + my advice, my good sir, and disinterestedly contrive that once or twice a + quarter your most dexterous whip shall overturn a coachful of these + superfluous travellers, IN TERROREM to those who, as Horace says, “delight + in the dust raised by your chariots.” + </p> + <p> + Your current and customary mail-coach passenger, too, gets abominably + selfish, schemes successfully for the best seat, the freshest egg, the + right cut of the sirloin. The mode of travelling is death to all the + courtesies and kindnesses of life, and goes a great way to demoralize the + character, and cause it to retrograde to barbarism. You allow us excellent + dinners, but only twenty minutes to eat them. And what is the consequence? + Bashful beauty sits on the one side of us, timid childhood on the other; + respectable, yet somewhat feeble, old age is placed on our front; and all + require those acts of politeness which ought to put every degree upon a + level at the convivial board. But have we time—we the strong and + active of the party—to perform the duties of the table to the more + retired and bashful, to whom these little attentions are due? The lady + should be pressed to her chicken, the old man helped to his favourite and + tender slice, the child to his tart. But not a fraction of a minute have + we to bestow on any other person than ourselves; and the PRUT-PRUT—TUT-TUT + of the guard’s discordant note summons us to the coach, the weaker party + having gone without their dinner, and the able-bodied and active + threatened with indigestion, from having swallowed victuals like a + Lei’stershire clown bolting bacon. + </p> + <p> + On the memorable occasion I am speaking of I lost my breakfast, sheerly + from obeying the commands of a respectable-looking old lady, who once + required me to ring the bell, and another time to help the tea-kettle. I + have some reason to think she was literally an OLD-STAGER, who laughed in + her sleeve at my complaisance; so that I have sworn in my secret soul + revenge upon her sex, and all such errant damsels of whatever age and + degree whom I may encounter in my travels. I mean all this without the + least ill-will to my friend the contractor, who, I think, has approached + as near as any one is like to do towards accomplishing the modest wish cf + the Amatus and Amata of the Peri Bathous,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Ye gods, annihilate but time and space, + And make two lovers happy.” + </pre> + <p> + I intend to give Mr. P. his full revenge when I come to discuss the more + recent enormity of steamboats; meanwhile, I shall only say of both these + modes of conveyance, that— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “There is no living with them or without them.” + </pre> + <p> + I am, perhaps, more critical on the—mail-coach on this particular + occasion, that I did not meet all the respect from the worshipful company + in his Majesty’s carriage that I think I was entitled to. I must say it + for myself that I bear, in my own opinion at least, not a vulgar point + about me. My face has seen service, but there is still a good set of + teeth, an aquiline nose, and a quick, grey eye, set a little too deep + under the eyebrow; and a cue of the kind once called military may serve to + show that my civil occupations have been sometimes mixed with those of + war. Nevertheless, two idle young fellows in the vehicle, or rather on the + top of it, were so much amused with the deliberation which I used in + ascending to the same place of eminence, that I thought I should have been + obliged to pull them up a little. And I was in no good-humour at an + unsuppressed laugh following my descent when set down at the angle, where + a cross road, striking off from the main one, led me towards Glentanner, + from which I was still nearly five miles distant. + </p> + <p> + It was an old-fashioned road, which, preferring ascents to sloughs, was + led in a straight line over height and hollow, through moor and dale. + Every object around me; as I passed them in succession, reminded me of old + days, and at the same time formed the strongest contrast with them + possible. Unattended, on foot, with a small bundle in my hand, deemed + scarce sufficient good company for the two shabby-genteels with whom I had + been lately perched on the top of a mail-coach, I did not seem to be the + same person with the young prodigal, who lived with the noblest and gayest + in the land, and who, thirty years before, would, in the same country, + have, been on the back of a horse that had been victor for a plate, or + smoking aloof in his travelling chaise-and-four. My sentiments were not + less changed than my condition. I could quite well remember that my ruling + sensation in the days of heady youth was a mere schoolboy’s eagerness to + get farthest forward in the race in which I had engaged; to drink as many + bottles as —; to be thought as good a judge of a horse as —; + to have the knowing cut of —‘s jacket. These were thy gods, O + Israel! + </p> + <p> + Now I was a mere looker-on; seldom an unmoved, and sometimes an angry + spectator, but still a spectator only, of the pursuits of mankind. I felt + how little my opinion was valued by those engaged in the busy turmoil, yet + I exercised it with the profusion of an old lawyer retired from his + profession, who thrusts himself into his neighbour’s affairs, and gives + advice where it is not wanted, merely under pretence of loving the crack + of the whip. + </p> + <p> + I came amid these reflections to the brow of a hill, from which I expected + to see Glentanner, a modest-looking yet comfortable house, its walls + covered with the most productive fruit-trees in that part of the country, + and screened from the most stormy quarters of the horizon by a deep and + ancient wood, which overhung the neighbouring hill. The house was gone; a + great part of the wood was felled; and instead of the gentlemanlike + mansion, shrouded and embosomed among its old hereditary trees, stood + Castle Treddles, a huge lumping four-square pile of freestone, as bare as + my nail, except for a paltry edging of decayed and lingering exotics, with + an impoverished lawn stretched before it, which, instead of boasting deep + green tapestry, enamelled with daisies and with crowsfoot and cowslips, + showed an extent of nakedness, raked, indeed, and levelled, but where the + sown grasses had failed with drought, and the earth, retaining its natural + complexion, seemed nearly as brown and bare as when it was newly dug up. + </p> + <p> + The house was a large fabric, which pretended to its name of Castle only + from the front windows being finished in acute Gothic arches (being, by + the way, the very reverse of the castellated style), and each angle graced + with a turret about the size of a pepper-box. In every other respect it + resembled a large town-house, which, like a fat burgess, had taken a walk + to the country on a holiday, and climbed to the top of all eminence to + look around it. The bright red colour of the freestone, the size of the + building, the formality of its shape, and awkwardness of its position, + harmonized as ill with the sweeping Clyde in front, and the bubbling brook + which danced down on the right, as the fat civic form, with bushy wig, + gold-headed cane, maroon-coloured coat, and mottled silk stockings, would + have accorded with the wild and magnificent scenery of Corehouse Linn. + </p> + <p> + I went up to the house. It was in that state of desertion which is perhaps + the most unpleasant to look on, for the place was going to decay without + having been inhabited. There were about the mansion, though deserted, none + of the slow mouldering touches of time, which communicate to buildings, as + to the human frame, a sort of reverence, while depriving them of beauty + and of strength. The disconcerted schemes of the Laird of Castle Treddles + had resembled fruit that becomes decayed without ever having ripened. Some + windows broken, others patched, others blocked up with deals, gave a + disconsolate air to all around, and seemed to say, “There Vanity had + purposed to fix her seat, but was anticipated by Poverty.” + </p> + <p> + To the inside, after many a vain summons, I was at length admitted by an + old labourer. The house contained every contrivance for luxury and + accommodation. The kitchens were a model; and there were hot closets on + the office staircase, that the dishes might not cool, as our Scottish + phrase goes, between the kitchen and the hall. But instead of the genial + smell of good cheer, these temples of Comus emitted the damp odour of + sepulchral vaults, and the large cabinets of cast-iron looked like the + cages of some feudal Bastille. The eating room and drawing-room, with an + interior boudoir, were magnificent apartments, the ceiling was fretted and + adorned with stucco-work, which already was broken in many places, and + looked in others damp and mouldering; the wood panelling was shrunk and + warped, and cracked; the doors, which had not been hung for more than two + years, were, nevertheless, already swinging loose from their hinges. + Desolation, in short, was where enjoyment had never been; and the want of + all the usual means to preserve was fast performing the work of decay. + </p> + <p> + The story was a common one, and told in a few words. Mr. Treddles, senior, + who bought the estate, was a cautious, money-making person. His son, still + embarked in commercial speculations, desired at the same time to enjoy his + opulence and to increase it. He incurred great expenses, amongst which + this edifice was to benumbered. To support these he speculated boldly, and + unfortunately; and thus the whole history is told, which may serve for + more places than Glentanner. + </p> + <p> + Strange and various feelings ran through my bosom as I loitered in these + deserted apartments, scarce hearing what my guide said to me about the + size and destination of each room. The first sentiment, I am ashamed to + say, was one of gratified spite. My patrician pride was pleased that the + mechanic, who had not thought the house of the Croftangrys sufficiently + good for him, had now experienced a fall in his turn. My next thought was + as mean, though not so malicious. “I have had the better of this fellow,” + thought I. “If I lost the estate, I at least spent the price; and Mr. + Treddles has lost his among paltry commercial engagements.” + </p> + <p> + “Wretch!” said the secret voice within, “darest thou exult in thy shame? + Recollect how thy youth and fortune was wasted in those years, and triumph + not in the enjoyment of an existence which levelled thee with the beasts + that perish. Bethink thee how this poor man’s vanity gave at least bread + to the labourer, peasant, and citizen; and his profuse expenditure, like + water spilt on the ground, refreshed the lowly herbs and plants where it + fell. But thou! Whom hast thou enriched during thy career of extravagance, + save those brokers of the devil—vintners, panders, gamblers, and + horse-jockeys?” The anguish produced by this self-reproof was so strong + that I put my hand suddenly to my forehead, and was obliged to allege a + sudden megrim to my attendant, in apology for the action, and a slight + groan with which it was accompanied. + </p> + <p> + I then made an effort to turn my thoughts into a more philosophical + current, and muttered half aloud, as a charm to lull any more painful + thoughts to rest,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “NUNC AGER UMBRENI SUB NOMINE, NUPER OFELLI + DICTUS ERIT NULLI PROPRIUS; SED CEDIT IN USUM + NUNC MIHI, NUNC ALII. QUOCIRCA VIVITE FORTES, + FORTIAQUE ADVERSIS OPPONITE PECTORA REBUS.” + </pre> + <p> + [Horace Sat.II Lib.2. The meaning will be best conveyed to the English + reader in Pope’s imitation:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “What’s property, dear Swift? You see it alter + From you to me, from me to Peter Walter; + Or in a mortgage prove a lawyer’s share; + Or in a jointure vanish from the heir. + + ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** + + “Shades, that to Bacon could retreat afford, + Become the portion of a booby lord; + And Helmsley, once proud Buckingham’s delight, + Slides to a scrivener and city knight. + Let lands and houses have what lords they will, + Let us be fix’d, and our own masters still.”] +</pre> + <p> + In my anxiety to fix the philosophical precept in my mind, I recited the + last line aloud, which, joined to my previous agitation, I afterwards + found became the cause of a report that a mad schoolmaster had come from + Edinburgh, with the idea in his head of buying Castle Treddles. + </p> + <p> + As I saw my companion was desirous of getting rid of me, I asked where I + was to find the person in whose hands were left the map of the estate, and + other particulars connected with the sale. The agent who had this in + possession, I was told, lived at the town of —, which I was + informed, and indeed knew well, was distant five miles and a bittock, + which may pass in a country where they are less lavish of their land for + two or three more. Being somewhat afraid of the fatigue of walking so far, + I inquired if a horse or any sort of carriage was to be had, and was + answered in the negative. + </p> + <p> + “But,” said my cicerone, “you may halt a blink till next morning at the + Treddles Arms, a very decent house, scarce a mile off.” + </p> + <p> + “A new house, I suppose?” replied I. + </p> + <p> + “No, it’s a new public, but it’s an auld house; it was aye the Leddy’s + jointure-house in the Croftangry folk’s time. But Mr. Treddles has fitted + it up for the convenience of the country, poor man, he was a + public-spirited man when he had the means.” + </p> + <p> + “Duntarkin a public-house!” I exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Ay!” said the fellow, surprised at my naming the place by its former + title; “ye’ll hae been in this country before, I’m thinking?” + </p> + <p> + “Long since,” I replied. “And there is good accommodation at the + what-d’ye-call-’em arms, and a civil landlord?” This I said by way of + saying something, for the man stared very hard at me. + </p> + <p> + “Very decent accommodation. Ye’ll no be for fashing wi’ wine, I’m + thinking; and there’s walth o’ porter, ale, and a drap gude whisky” (in an + undertone)—“Fairntosh—if you call get on the lee-side of the + gudewife—for there is nae gudeman. They ca’ her Christie Steele.” + </p> + <p> + I almost started at the sound. Christie Steele! Christie Steele was my + mother’s body-servant, her very right hand, and, between ourselves, + something like a viceroy over her. I recollected her perfectly; and though + she had in former times been no favourite of mine, her name now sounded in + my ear like that of a friend, and was the first word I had heard somewhat + in unison with the associations around me. I sallied from Castle Treddles, + determined to make the best of my way to Duntarkin, and my cicerone hung + by me for a little way, giving loose to his love of talking—an + opportunity which, situated as he was, the seneschal of a deserted castle, + was not likely to occur frequently. + </p> + <p> + “Some folk think,” said my companion, “that Mr. Treddles might as weel + have put my wife as Christie Steele into the Treddles Arms; for Christie + had been aye in service, and never in the public line, and so it’s like + she is ganging back in the world, as I hear. Now, my wife had keepit a + victualling office.” + </p> + <p> + “That would have been an advantage, certainly,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + “But I am no sure that I wad ha’ looten Eppie take it, if they had put it + in her offer.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s a different consideration.” + </p> + <p> + “Ony way, I wadna ha’ liked to have offended Mr. Treddles. He was a wee + toustie when you rubbed him again the hair; but a kind, weel-meaning man.” + </p> + <p> + I wanted to get rid of this species of chat, and finding myself near the + entrance of a footpath which made a short cut to Duntarkin, I put half a + crown into my guide’s hand, bade him good-evening, and plunged into the + woods. + </p> + <p> + “Hout, sir—fie, sir—no from the like of you. Stay, sir, ye + wunna find the way that gate.—Odd’s mercy, he maun ken the gate as + weel as I do mysel’. Weel, I wad like to ken wha the chield is.” + </p> + <p> + Such were the last words of my guide’s drowsy, uninteresting tone of voice + and glad to be rid of him, I strode out stoutly, in despite of large + stones, briers, and BAD STEPS, which abounded in the road I had chosen. In + the interim, I tried as much as I could, with verses from Horace and + Prior, and all who have lauded the mixture of literary with rural life, to + call back the visions of last night and this morning, imagining myself + settled in same detached farm of the estate of Glentanner,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Which sloping hills around enclose— + Where many a birch and brown oak grows,” + </pre> + <p> + when I should have a cottage with a small library, a small cellar, a spare + bed for a friend, and live more happy and more honoured than when I had + the whole barony. But the sight of Castle Treddles had disturbed all my + own castles in the air. The realities of the matter, like a stone plashed + into a limpid fountain, had destroyed the reflection of the objects + around, which, till this act of violence, lay slumbering on the crystal + surface, and I tried in vain to re-establish the picture which had been so + rudely broken. Well, then, I would try it another way. I would try to get + Christie Steele out of her PUBLIC, since she was not striving in it, and + she who had been my mother’s governante should be mine. I knew all her + faults, and I told her history over to myself. + </p> + <p> + She was grand-daughter, I believe—at least some relative—of + the famous Covenanter of the name, whom Dean Swift’s friend, Captain + Creichton, shot on his own staircase in the times of the persecutions; + [See Note 2.—Steele a Covenanter, shot by Captain Creichton.] and + had perhaps derived from her native stock much both of its good and evil + properties. No one could say of her that she was the life and spirit of + the family, though in my mother’s time she directed all family affairs. + Her look was austere and gloomy, and when she was not displeased with you, + you could only find it out by her silence. If there was cause for + complaint, real or imaginary, Christie was loud enough. She loved my + mother with the devoted attachment of a younger sister; but she was as + jealous of her favour to any one else as if she had been the aged husband + of a coquettish wife, and as severe in her reprehensions as an abbess over + her nuns. The command which she exercised over her was that, I fear, of a + strong and determined over a feeble and more nervous disposition and + though it was used with rigour, yet, to the best of Christie Steele’s + belief, she was urging her mistress to her best and most becoming course, + and would have died rather than have recommended any other. The attachment + of this woman was limited to the family of Croftangry; for she had few + relations, and a dissolute cousin, whom late in life she had taken as a + husband, had long left her a widow. + </p> + <p> + To me she had ever a strong dislike. Even from my early childhood she was + jealous, strange as it may seem, of my interest in my mother’s affections. + She saw my foibles and vices with abhorrence, and without a grain of + allowance; nor did she pardon the weakness of maternal affection even + when, by the death of two brothers, I came to be the only child of a + widowed parent. At the time my disorderly conduct induced my mother to + leave Glentanner, and retreat to her jointure-house, I always blamed + Christie Steele for having influenced her resentment and prevented her + from listening to my vows of amendment, which at times were real and + serious, and might, perhaps, have accelerated that change of disposition + which has since, I trust, taken place. But Christie regarded me as + altogether a doomed and predestinated child of perdition, who was sure to + hold on my course, and drag downwards whosoever might attempt to afford me + support. + </p> + <p> + Still, though I knew such had been Christie’s prejudices against me in + other days, yet I thought enough of time had since passed away to destroy + all of them. I knew that when, through the disorder of my affairs, my + mother underwent some temporary inconvenience about money matters, + Christie, as a thing of course, stood in the gap, and having sold a small + inheritance which had descended to her, brought the purchase money to her + mistress, with a sense of devotion as deep as that which inspired the + Christians of the first age, when they sold all they had, and followed the + apostles of the church. I therefore thought that we might, in old Scottish + phrase, “let byganes be byganes,” and begin upon a new account. Yet I + resolved, like a skilful general, to reconnoitre a little before laying + down any precise scheme of proceeding, and in the interim I determined to + preserve my incognito. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. MR. CROFTANGRY BIDS ADIEU TO CLYDESDALE. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Alas, how changed from what it once had been! + ‘Twas now degraded to a common inn. GAY. +</pre> + <p> + An hour’s brisk walking, or thereabouts, placed me in front of Duntarkin, + which had also, I found, undergone considerable alterations, though it had + not been altogether demolished like the principal mansion. An inn-yard + extended before the door of the decent little jointure-house, even amidst + the remnants of the holly hedges which had screened the lady’s garden. + Then a broad, raw-looking, new-made road intruded itself up the little + glen, instead of the old horseway, so seldom used that it was almost + entirely covered with grass. It is a great enormity, of which gentlemen + trustees on the highways are sometimes guilty, in adopting the breadth + necessary for an avenue to the metropolis, where all that is required is + an access to some sequestered and unpopulous district. I do not say + anything of the expense—that the trustees and their constituents may + settle as they please. But the destruction of silvan beauty is great when + the breadth of the road is more than proportioned to the vale through + which it runs, and lowers, of course, the consequence of any objects of + wood or water, or broken and varied ground, which might otherwise attract + notice and give pleasure. A bubbling runnel by the side of one of those + modern Appian or Flaminian highways is but like a kennel; the little hill + is diminished to a hillock—the romantic hillock to a molehill, + almost too small for sight. + </p> + <p> + Such an enormity, however, had destroyed the quiet loneliness of + Duntarkin, and intruded its breadth of dust and gravel, and its + associations of pochays and mail-coaches, upon one of the most sequestered + spots in the Middle Ward of Clydesdale. The house was old and dilapidated, + and looked sorry for itself, as if sensible of a derogation; but the sign + was strong and new, and brightly painted, displaying a heraldic shield + (three shuttles in a field diapre), a web partly unfolded for crest, and + two stout giants for supporters, each one holding a weaver’s beam proper. + To have displayed this monstrous emblem on the front of the house might + have hazarded bringing down the wall, but for certain would have blocked + up one or two windows. It was therefore established independent of the + mansion, being displayed in an iron framework, and suspended upon two + posts, with as much wood and iron about it as would have builded a brig; + and there it hung, creaking, groaning, and screaming in every blast of + wind, and frightening for five miles’ distance, for aught I know, the + nests of thrushes and linnets, the ancient denizens of the little glen. + </p> + <p> + When I entered the place I was received by Christie Steele herself, who + seemed uncertain whether to drop me in the kitchen, or usher me into a + separate apartment, as I called for tea, with something rather more + substantial than bread and butter, and spoke of supping and sleeping, + Christie at last inducted me into the room where she herself had been + sitting, probably the only one which had a fire, though the month was + October. This answered my plan; and as she was about to remove her + spinning-wheel, I begged she would have the goodness to remain and make my + tea, adding that I liked the sound of the wheel, and desired not to + disturb her housewife thrift in the least. + </p> + <p> + “I dinna ken, sir,” she replied, in a dry, REVECHE tone, which carried me + back twenty years, “I am nane of thae heartsome landleddies that can tell + country cracks, and make themsel’s agreeable, and I was ganging to put on + a fire for you in the Red Room; but if it is your will to stay here, he + that pays the lawing maun choose the lodging.” + </p> + <p> + I endeavoured to engage her in conversation; but though she answered, with + a kind of stiff civility, I could get her into no freedom of discourse, + and she began to look at her wheel and at the door more than once, as if + she meditated a retreat. I was obliged, therefore, to proceed to some + special questions; that might have interest for a person whose ideas were + probably of a very bounded description. + </p> + <p> + I looked round the apartment, being the same in which I had last seen my + poor mother. The author of the family history, formerly mentioned, had + taken great credit to himself for the improvements he had made in this + same jointure-house of Duntarkin, and how, upon his marriage, when his + mother took possession of the same as her jointure-house, “to his great + charges and expenses he caused box the walls of the great parlour” (in + which I was now sitting), “empanel the same, and plaster the roof, + finishing the apartment with ane concave chimney, and decorating the same + with pictures, and a barometer and thermometer.” And in particular, which + his good mother used to say she prized above all the rest, he had caused + his own portraiture be limned over the mantlepiece by a skilful hand. And, + in good faith, there he remained still, having much the visage which I was + disposed to ascribe to him on the evidence of his handwriting,—grim + and austere, yet not without a cast of shrewdness and determination; in + armour, though he never wore it, I fancy; one hand on an open book, and + one resting on the hilt of his sword, though I dare say his head never + ached with reading, nor his limbs with fencing. + </p> + <p> + “That picture is painted on the wood, madam,” said I. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, sir, or it’s like it would not have been left there; they look a’ + they could.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Treddles’s creditors, you mean?” said I. + </p> + <p> + “Na,” replied she dryly, “the creditors of another family, that sweepit + cleaner than this poor man’s, because I fancy there was less to gather.” + </p> + <p> + “An older family, perhaps, and probably more remembered and regretted than + later possessors?” + </p> + <p> + Christie here settled herself in her seat, and pulled her wheel towards + her. I had given her something interesting for her thoughts to dwell upon, + and her wheel was a mechanical accompaniment on such occasions, the + revolutions of which assisted her in the explanation of her ideas. + </p> + <p> + “Mair regretted—mair missed? I liked ane of the auld family very + weel, but I winna say that for them a’. How should they be mair missed + than the Treddleses? The cotton mill was such a thing for the country! The + mair bairns a cottar body had the better; they would make their awn keep + frae the time they were five years auld, and a widow wi’ three or four + bairns was a wealthy woman in the time of the Treddleses.” + </p> + <p> + “But the health of these poor children, my good friend—their + education and religious instruction—” + </p> + <p> + “For health,” said Christie, looking gloomily at me, “ye maun ken little + of the warld, sir, if ye dinna ken that the health of the poor man’s body, + as well as his youth and his strength, are all at the command of the rich + man’s purse. There never was a trade so unhealthy yet but men would fight + to get wark at it for twa pennies a day aboon the common wage. But the + bairns were reasonably weel cared for in the way of air and exercise, and + a very responsible youth heard them their Carritch, and gied them lessons + in Reediemadeasy [“Reading made Easy,” usually so pronounced in Scotland.] + Now, what did they ever get before? Maybe on a winter day they wad be + called out to beat the wood for cocks or siclike; and then the starving + weans would maybe get a bite of broken bread, and maybe no, just as the + butler was in humour—that was a’ they got.” + </p> + <p> + “They were not, then, a very kind family to the poor, these old + possessors?” said I, somewhat bitterly; for I had expected to hear my + ancestors’ praises recorded, though I certainly despaired of being regaled + with my own. + </p> + <p> + “They werena ill to them, sir, and that is aye something. They were just + decent bien bodies; ony poor creature that had face to beg got an awmous, + and welcome—they that were shamefaced gaed by, and twice as welcome. + But they keepit an honest walk before God and man, the Croftangrys, and, + as I said before, if they did little good, they did as little ill. They + lifted their rents, and spent them; called in their kain and ate them; + gaed to the kirk of a Sunday; bowed civilly if folk took aff their bannets + as they gaed by, and lookit as black as sin at them that keepit them on.” + </p> + <p> + “These are their arms that you have on the sign?” + </p> + <p> + “What! on the painted board that is skirling and groaning at the door? Na, + these are Mr. Treddles’s arms though they look as like legs as arms. Ill + pleased I was at the fule thing, that cost as muckle as would hae repaired + the house from the wa’ stane to the rigging-tree. But if I am to bide + here, I’ll hae a decent board wi’ a punch bowl on it.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there a doubt of your staying here, Mrs. Steele?” + </p> + <p> + “Dinna Mistress me,” said the cross old woman, whose fingers were now + plying their thrift in a manner which indicated nervous irritation; “there + was nae luck in the land since Luckie turned Mistress, and Mistress my + Leddy. And as for staying here, if it concerns you to ken, I may stay if I + can pay a hundred pund sterling for the lease, and I may flit if I canna, + and so gude e’en to you, Christie,”—and round went the wheel with + much activity. + </p> + <p> + “And you like the trade of keeping a public-house?” + </p> + <p> + “I can scarce say that,” she replied. “But worthy Mr. Prendergast is clear + of its lawfulness; and I hae gotten used to it, and made a decent living, + though I never make out a fause reckoning, or give ony ane the means to + disorder reason in my house.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said I; “in that case, there is no wonder you have not made up + the hundred pounds to purchase the lease.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you ken,” said she sharply, “that I might not have had a hundred + punds of my ain fee? If I have it not, I am sure it is my ain faut. And I + wunna ca’ it faut neither, for it gaed to her wha was weel entitled to a’ + my service.” Again she pulled stoutly at the flax, and the wheel went + smartly round. + </p> + <p> + “This old gentleman,” said I, fixing my eye on the painted panel, “seems + to have had HIS arms painted as well as Mr. Treddles—that is, if + that painting in the corner be a scutcheon.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, ay—cushion, just sae. They maun a’ hae their cushions—there’s + sma’ gentry without that—and so the arms, as they ca’ them, of the + house of Glentanner may be seen on an auld stane in the west end of the + house. But to do them justice; they didna propale sae muckle about them as + poor Mr. Treddles did—it’s like they were better used to them.” + </p> + <p> + “Very likely. Are there any of the old family in life, goodwife?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” she replied; then added; after a moment’s hesitation, “Not that I + know of”—and the wheel, which had intermitted, began again to + revolve. + </p> + <p> + “Gone abroad, perhaps?” I suggested. + </p> + <p> + She now looked up, and faced me. “No, sir. There were three sons of the + last laird of Glentanner, as he was then called. John and William were + hopeful young gentlemen, but they died early—one of a decline + brought on by the mizzles, the other lost his life in a fever. It would + hae been lucky for mony ane that Chrystal had gane the same gate.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, he must have been the young spendthrift that sold the property? Well, + but you should you have such an ill-will against him; remember necessity + has no law. And then, goodwife, he was not more culpable than Mr. + Treddles, whom you are so sorry for.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish I could think sae, sir, for his mother’s sake. But Mr. Treddles + was in trade, and though he had no preceese right to do so, yet there was + some warrant for a man being expensive that imagined he was making a mint + of money. But this unhappy lad devoured his patrimony, when he kenned that + he was living like a ratten in a Dunlap cheese, and diminishing his means + at a’ hands. I canna bide to think on’t.” With this she broke out into a + snatch of a ballad, but little of mirth was there either in the tone or + the expression:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “For he did spend, and make an end + Of gear that his forefathers wan; + Of land and ware he made him bare, + So speak nae mair of the auld gudeman.” + </pre> + <p> + “Come, dame,” said I, “it is a long lane that has no turning. I will not + keep from you that I have heard something of this poor fellow, Chrystal + Croftangry. He has sown his wild oats, as they say, and has settled into a + steady, respectable man.” + </p> + <p> + “And wha tell’d ye that tidings?” said she, looking sharply at me. + </p> + <p> + “Not, perhaps, the best judge in the world of his character, for it was + himself, dame.” + </p> + <p> + “And if he tell’d you truth, it was a virtue he did not aye use to + practise,” said Christie. + </p> + <p> + “The devil!” said I, considerably nettled; “all the world held him to be a + man of honour.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, ay! he would hae shot onybody wi’ his pistols and his guns that had + evened him to be a liar. But if he promised to pay an honest tradesman the + next term-day, did he keep his word then? And if he promised a puir, silly + lass to make gude her shame, did he speak truth then? And what is that but + being a liar, and a black-hearted, deceitful liar to boot?” + </p> + <p> + My indignation was rising, but I strove to suppress it; indeed, I should + only have afforded my tormentor a triumph by an angry reply. I partly + suspected she began to recognize me, yet she testified so little emotion + that I could not think my suspicion well founded. I went on, therefore, to + say, in a tone as indifferent as I could command, “Well, goodwife, I see + you will believe no good of this Chrystal of yours, till he comes back and + buys a good farm on the estate, and makes you his housekeeper.” + </p> + <p> + The old woman dropped her thread, folded her hands, as she looked up to + heaven with a face of apprehension. “The Lord,” she exclaimed, “forbid! + The Lord in His mercy forbid! O sir! if you really know this unlucky man, + persuade him to settle where folk ken the good that you say he has come + to, and dinna ken the evil of his former days. He used to be proud enough—O + dinna let him come here, even for his own sake. He used once to have some + pride.” + </p> + <p> + Here she once more drew the wheel close to her, and began to pull at the + flax with both hands. “Dinna let him come here, to be looked down upon by + ony that may be left of his auld reiving companions, and to see the decent + folk that he looked over his nose at look over their noses at him, baith + at kirk and market. Dinna let him come to his ain country, to be made a + tale about when ony neighbour points him out to another, and tells what he + is, and what he was, and how he wrecked a dainty estate, and brought + harlots to the door-cheek of his father’s house, till he made it nae + residence for his mother; and how it had been foretauld by a servant of + his ain house that he was a ne’er-do-weel and a child of perdition, and + how her words were made good, and—” + </p> + <p> + “Stop there, goodwife, if you please,” said I; “you have said as much as I + can well remember, and more than it may be safe to repeat. I can use a + great deal of freedom with the gentleman we speak of; but I think, were + any other person to carry him half of your message, I would scarce ensure + his personal safety. And now, as I see the night is settled to be a fine + one, I will walk on to —, where I must meet a coach to-morrow as it + passes to Edinburgh.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, I paid my moderate reckoning, and took my leave, without being + able to discover whether the prejudiced and hard-hearted old woman did, or + did not, suspect the identity of her guest with the Chrystal Croftangry + against whom she harboured so much dislike. + </p> + <p> + The night was fine and frosty, though, when I pretended to see what its + character was, it might have rained like the deluge. I only made the + excuse to escape from old Christie Steele. The horses which run races in + the Corso at Rome without any riders, in order to stimulate their + exertion, carry each his own spurs namely, small balls of steel, with + sharp, projecting spikes, which are attached to loose straps of leather, + and, flying about in the violence of the agitation, keep the horse to his + speed by pricking him as they strike against his flanks. The old woman’s + reproaches had the same effect on me, and urged me to a rapid pace, as if + it had been possible to escape from my own recollections. In the best days + of my life, when I won one or two hard walking matches, I doubt if I ever + walked so fast as I did betwixt the Treddles Arms and the borough town for + which I was bound. Though the night was cold, I was warm enough by the + time I got to my inn; and it required a refreshing draught of porter, with + half an hour’s repose, ere I could determine to give no further thought to + Christie and her opinions than those of any other vulgar, prejudiced old + woman. I resolved at last to treat the thing EN BAGATELLE, and calling for + writing materials, I folded up a cheque for L100, with these lines on the + envelope:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Chrystal, the ne’er-do-weel, + Child destined to the deil, + Sends this to Christie Steele.” + </pre> + <p> + And I was so much pleased with this new mode of viewing the subject, that + I regretted the lateness of the hour prevented my finding a person to + carry the letter express to its destination. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “But with the morning cool reflection came.” + </pre> + <p> + I considered that the money, and probably more, was actually due by me on + my mother’s account to Christie, who had lent it in a moment of great + necessity, and that the returning it in a light or ludicrous manner was + not unlikely to prevent so touchy and punctilious a person from accepting + a debt which was most justly her due, and which it became me particularly + to see satisfied. Sacrificing, then, my triad with little regret (for it + looked better by candlelight, and through the medium of a pot of porter, + than it did by daylight, and with bohea for a menstruum), I determined to + employ Mr. Fairscribe’s mediation in buying up the lease of the little + inn, and conferring it upon Christie in the way which should make it most + acceptable to her feelings. It is only necessary to add that my plan + succeeded, and that Widow Steele even yet keeps the Treddles Arms. Do not + say, therefore, that I have been disingenuous with you, reader; since, if + I have not told all the ill of myself I might have done, I have indicated + to you a person able and willing to supply the blank, by relating all my + delinquencies as well as my misfortunes. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime I totally abandoned the idea of redeeming any part of my + paternal property, and resolved to take Christie Steele’s advice, as young + Norval does Glenalvon’s, “although it sounded harshly.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. MR. CROFTANGRY SETTLES IN THE CANONGATE. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + If you will know my house, + ‘Tis at the tuft of olives here hard by. AS YOU LIKE IT. +</pre> + <p> + By a revolution of humour which I am unable to account for, I changed my + mind entirely on my plans of life, in consequence of the disappointment, + the history of which fills the last chapter. I began to discover that the + country would not at all suit me; for I had relinquished field-sports, and + felt no inclination whatever to farming, the ordinary vocation of country + gentlemen. Besides that, I had no talent for assisting either candidate in + case of an expected election, and saw no amusement in the duties of a road + trustee, a commissioner of supply, or even in the magisterial functions of + the bench. I had begun to take some taste for reading; and a domiciliation + in the country must remove me from the use of books, excepting the small + subscription library, in which the very book which you want is uniformly + sure to be engaged. + </p> + <p> + I resolved, therefore, to make the Scottish metropolis my regular + resting-place, reserving to myself to take occasionally those excursions + which, spite of all I have said against mail-coaches, Mr. Piper has + rendered so easy. Friend of our life and of our leisure, he secures by + dispatch against loss of time, and by the best of coaches, cattle, and + steadiest of drivers, against hazard of limb, and wafts us, as well as our + letters, from Edinburgh to Cape Wrath in the penning of a paragraph. + </p> + <p> + When my mind was quite made up to make Auld Reekie my headquarters, + reserving the privilege of EXPLORING in all directions, I began to explore + in good earnest for the purpose of discovering a suitable habitation. “And + whare trew ye I gaed?” as Sir Pertinax says. Not to George’s Square—nor + to Charlotte Square—nor to the old New Town—nor to the new New + Town—nor to the Calton Hill. I went to the Canongate, and to the + very portion of the Canongate in which I had formerly been immured, like + the errant knight, prisoner in some enchanted castle, where spells have + made the ambient air impervious to the unhappy captive, although the + organs of sight encountered no obstacle to his free passage. + </p> + <p> + Why I should have thought of pitching my tent here I cannot tell. Perhaps + it was to enjoy the pleasures of freedom where I had so long endured the + bitterness of restraint, on the principle of the officer who, after he had + retired from the army, ordered his servant to continue to call him at the + hour or parade, simply that he might have the pleasure of saying, “D—n + the parade!” and turning to the other side to enjoy his slumbers. Or + perhaps I expected to find in the vicinity some little old-fashioned + house, having somewhat of the RUS IN URBE which I was ambitious of + enjoying. Enough: I went, as aforesaid, to the Canongate. + </p> + <p> + I stood by the kennel, of which I have formerly spoken, and, my mind being + at ease, my bodily organs were more delicate. I was more sensible than + heretofore, that, like the trade of Pompey in MEASURE FOR MEASURE,—it + did in some sort—pah an ounce of civet, good apothecary! Turning + from thence, my steps naturally directed themselves to my own humble + apartment, where my little Highland landlady, as dapper and as tight as + ever, (for old women wear a hundred times better than the hard-wrought + seniors of the masculine sex), stood at the door, TEEDLING to herself a + Highland song as she shook a table napkin over the fore-stair, and then + proceeded to fold it up neatly for future service. + </p> + <p> + “How do you, Janet?” + </p> + <p> + “Thank ye, good sir,” answered my old friend, without looking at me; “but + ye might as weel say Mrs. MacEvoy, for she is na a’body’s Shanet—umph.” + </p> + <p> + “You must be MY Janet, though, for all that. Have you forgot me? Do you + not remember Chrystal Croftangry?” + </p> + <p> + The light, kind-hearted creature threw her napkin into the open door, + skipped down the stair like a fairy, three steps at once, seized me by the + hands—both hands—jumped up, and actually kissed me. I was a + little ashamed; but what swain, of somewhere inclining to sixty could + resist the advances of a fair contemporary? So we allowed the full degree + of kindness to the meeting—HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE—and then + Janet entered instantly upon business. “An ye’ll gae in, man, and see your + auld lodgings, nae doubt and Shanet will pay ye the fifteen shillings of + change that ye ran away without, and without bidding Shanet good day. But + never mind” (nodding good-humouredly), “Shanet saw you were carried for + the time.” + </p> + <p> + By this time we were in my old quarters, and Janet, with her bottle of + cordial in one hand and the glass in the other, had forced on me a dram of + usquebaugh, distilled with saffron and other herbs, after some + old-fashioned Highland receipt. Then was unfolded, out of many a little + scrap of paper, the reserved sum of fifteen shillings, which Janet had + treasured for twenty years and upwards. + </p> + <p> + “Here they are,” she said, in honest triumph, “just the same I was holding + out to ye when ye ran as if ye had been fey. Shanet has had siller, and + Shanet has wanted siller, mony a time since that. And the gauger has come, + and the factor has come, and the butcher and baker—Cot bless us just + like to tear poor auld Shanet to pieces; but she took good care of Mr. + Croftangry’s fifteen shillings.” + </p> + <p> + “But what if I had never come back, Janet?” + </p> + <p> + “Och, if Shanet had heard you were dead, she would hae gien it to the poor + of the chapel, to pray for Mr. Croftangry,” said Janet, crossing herself, + for she was a Catholic, “You maybe do not think it would do you cood, but + the blessing of the poor can never do no harm.” + </p> + <p> + I agreed heartily in Janet’s conclusion; and as to have desired her to + consider the hoard as her own property would have been an indelicate + return to her for the uprightness of her conduct, I requested her to + dispose of it as she had proposed to do in the event of my death—that + is, if she knew any poor people of merit to whom it might be useful. + </p> + <p> + “Ower mony of them,” raising the corner of her checked apron to her eyes—“e’en + ower mony of them, Mr. Croftangry. Och, ay. ‘There is the puir Highland + creatures frae Glenshee, that cam down for the harvest, and are lying wi’ + the fever—five shillings to them; and half a crown to Bessie + MacEvoy, whose coodman, puir creature, died of the frost, being a + shairman, for a’ the whisky he could drink to keep it out o’ his stamoch; + and—” + </p> + <p> + But she suddenly interrupted the bead-roll of her proposed charities, and + assuming a very sage look, and primming up her little chattering mouth, + she went on in a different tone—“But och, Mr. Croftangry, bethink ye + whether ye will not need a’ this siller yoursel’, and maybe look back and + think lang for ha’en kiven it away, whilk is a creat sin to forthink a + wark o’ charity, and also is unlucky, and moreover is not the thought of a + shentleman’s son like yoursel’, dear. And I say this, that ye may think a + bit, for your mother’s son kens that ye are no so careful as you should be + of the gear, and I hae tauld ye of it before, jewel.” + </p> + <p> + I assured her I could easily spare the money, without risk of future + repentance; and she went on to infer that in such a case “Mr. Croftangry + had grown a rich man in foreign parts, and was free of his troubles with + messengers and sheriff-officers, and siclike scum of the earth, and Shanet + MacEvoy’s mother’s daughter be a blithe woman to hear it. But if Mr. + Croftangry was in trouble, there was his room, and his ped, and Shanet to + wait on him, and tak payment when it was quite convenient.” + </p> + <p> + I explained to Janet my situation, in which she expressed unqualified + delight. I then proceeded to inquire into her own circumstances, and + though she spoke cheerfully and contentedly, I could see they were + precarious. I had paid more than was due; other lodgers fell into an + opposite error, and forgot to pay Janet at all. Then, Janet being ignorant + of all indirect modes of screwing money out of her lodgers, others in the + same line of life, who were sharper than the poor, simple Highland woman, + were enabled to let their apartments cheaper in appearance, though the + inmates usually found them twice as dear in the long run. + </p> + <p> + As I had already destined my old landlady to be my house-keeper and + governante, knowing her honesty, good-nature, and, although a Scotchwoman, + her cleanliness and excellent temper (saving the short and hasty + expressions of anger which Highlanders call a FUFF), I now proposed the + plan to her in such a way as was likely to make it most acceptable. Very + acceptable as the proposal was, as I could plainly see, Janet, however, + took a day to consider upon it; and her reflections against our next + meeting had suggested only one objection, which was singular enough. + </p> + <p> + “My honour,” so she now termed me, “would pe for biding in some fine + street apout the town. Now Shanet wad ill like to live in a place where + polish, and sheriffs, and bailiffs, and sie thieves and trash of the + world, could tak puir shentlemen by the throat, just because they wanted a + wheen dollars in the sporran. She had lived in the bonny glen of + Tomanthoulick. Cot, an ony of the vermint had come there, her father wad + hae wared a shot on them, and he could hit a buck within as mony measured + yards as e’er a man of his clan, And the place here was so quiet frae + them, they durst na put their nose ower the gutter. Shanet owed nobody a + bodle, but she couldna pide to see honest folk and pretty shentlemen + forced away to prison whether they would or no; and then, if Shanet was to + lay her tangs ower ane of the ragamuffins’ heads, it would be, maybe, that + the law would gi’ed a hard name.” + </p> + <p> + One thing I have learned in life—never to speak sense when nonsense + will answer the purpose as well. I should have had great difficulty to + convince this practical and disinterested admirer and vindicator of + liberty, that arrests seldom or never were to be seen in the streets of + Edinburgh; and to satisfy her of their justice and necessity would have + been as difficult as to convert her to the Protestant faith. I therefore + assured her my intention, if I could get a suitable habitation, was to + remain in the quarter where she at present dwelt. Janet gave three skips + on the floor, and uttered as many short, shrill yells of joy. Yet doubt + almost instantly returned, and she insisted on knowing what possible + reason I could have for making my residence where few lived, save those + whose misfortunes drove them thither. It occurred to me to answer her by + recounting the legend of the rise of my family, and of our deriving our + name from a particular place near Holyrood Palace. This, which would have + appeared to most people a very absurd reason for choosing a residence, was + entirely satisfactory to Janet MacEvoy. + </p> + <p> + “Och, nae doubt! if it was the land of her fathers, there was nae mair to + be said. Put it was queer that her family estate should just lie at the + town tail, and covered with houses, where the King’s cows—Cot bless + them, hide and horn—used to craze upon. It was strange changes.” She + mused a little, and then added: “Put it is something better wi’ Croftangry + when the changes is frae the field to the habited place, and not from the + place of habitation to the desert; for Shanet, her nainsell, kent a glen + where there were men as weel as there may be in Croftangry, and if there + werena altogether sae mony of them, they were as good men in their tartan + as the others in their broadcloth. And there were houses, too; and if they + were not biggit with stane and lime, and lofted like the houses at + Croftangry, yet they served the purpose of them that lived there, and mony + a braw bonnet, and mony a silk snood and comely white curch, would come + out to gang to kirk or chapel on the Lord’s day, and little bairns + toddling after. And now—Och, Och, Ohellany, Ohonari! the glen is + desolate, and the braw snoods and bonnets are gane, and the Saxon’s house + stands dull and lonely, like the single bare-breasted rock that the falcon + builds on—the falcon that drives the heath-bird frae the glen.” + </p> + <p> + Janet, like many Highlanders, was full of imagination, and, when + melancholy themes came upon her, expressed herself almost poetically, + owing to the genius of the Celtic language in which she thought, and in + which, doubtless, she would have spoken, had I understood Gaelic. In two + minutes the shade of gloom and regret had passed from her good-humoured + features, and she was again the little, busy, prating, important old + woman, undisputed owner of one flat of a small tenement in the Abbey Yard, + and about to be promoted to be housekeeper to an elderly bachelor + gentleman, Chrystal Croftangry, Esq. + </p> + <p> + It was not long before Janet’s local researches found out exactly the sort + of place I wanted, and there we settled. Janet was afraid I would not be + satisfied, because it is not exactly part of Croftangry; but I stopped her + doubts by assuring her it had been part and pendicle thereof in my + forefather’ time, which passed very well. + </p> + <p> + I do not intend to possess any one with an exact knowledge of my lodging; + though, as Bobadil says, “I care not who knows it, since the cabin is + convenient.” But I may state in general, that it is a house “within + itself,” or, according to a newer phraseology in advertisements, + SELF-CONTAINED, has a garden of near half an acre, and a patch of ground + with trees in front. It boasts five rooms and servants’ apartments—looks + in front upon the palace, and from behind towards the hill and crags of + the King’s Park. Fortunately, the place had a name, which, with a little + improvement, served to countenance the legend which I had imposed on + Janet, and would not, perhaps have been sorry if I had been able to impose + on myself. It was called Littlecroft; we have dubbed it Little Croftangry, + and the men of letters belonging to the Post Office have sanctioned the + change, and deliver letters so addressed. Thus I am to all intents and + purposes Chrystal Croftangry of that Ilk. + </p> + <p> + My establishment consists of Janet, an under maid-servant, and a Highland + wench for Janet to exercise her Gaelic upon, with a handy lad who can lay + the cloth, and take care, besides, of a pony, on which I find my way to + Portobello sands, especially when the cavalry have a drill; for, like an + old fool as I am, I have not altogether become indifferent to the tramp of + horses and the flash of weapons, of which, though no professional soldier, + it has been my fate to see something in my youth. For wet mornings I have + my book; is it fine weather? I visit, or I wander on the Crags, as the + humour dictates. My dinner is indeed solitary, yet not quite so neither; + for though Andrew waits, Janet—or, as she is to all the world but + her master and certain old Highland gossips, Mrs. MacEvoy—attends, + bustles about, and desires to see everything is in first-rate order, and + to tell me, Cot pless us, the wonderful news of the palace for the day. + When the cloth is removed, and I light my cigar, and begin to husband a + pint of port, or a glass of old whisky and water, it is the rule of the + house that Janet takes a chair at some distance, and nods or works her + stocking, as she may be disposed—ready to speak, if I am in the + talking humour, and sitting quiet as a mouse if I am rather inclined to + study a book or the newspaper. At six precisely she makes my tea, and + leaves me to drink it; and then occurs an interval of time which most old + bachelors find heavy on their hands. The theatre is a good occasional + resource, especially if Will Murray acts, or a bright star of eminence + shines forth; but it is distant, and so are one or two public societies to + which I belong. Besides, these evening walks are all incompatible with the + elbow-chair feeling, which desires some employment that may divert the + mind without fatiguing the body. + </p> + <p> + Under the influence of these impressions, I have sometimes thought of this + literary undertaking. I must have been the Bonassus himself to have + mistaken myself for a genius; yet I have leisure and reflections like my + neighbours. I am a borderer, also, between two generations, and can point + out more, perhaps, than others of those fading traces of antiquity which + are daily vanishing; and I know many a modern instance and many an old + tradition, and therefore I ask— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “What ails me, I may not as well as they + Rake up some threadbare tales, that mouldering lay + In chimney corners, wont by Christmas fires + To read and rock to sleep our ancient sires? + No man his threshold better knows, than I + Brute’s first arrival and first victory, + Saint George’s sorrel and his cross of blood, + Arthur’s round board and Caledonian wood.” + </pre> + <p> + No shop is so easily set up as an antiquary’s. Like those of the lowest + order of pawnbrokers, a commodity of rusty iron, a bay or two of hobnails, + a few odd shoe-buckles, cashiered kail-pots, and fire-irons declared + incapable of service, are quite sufficient to set him up. If he add a + sheaf or two of penny ballads and broadsides, he is a great man—an + extensive trader. And then, like the pawnbrokers aforesaid, if the author + understands a little legerdemain, he may, by dint of a little picking and + stealing, make the inside of his shop a great deal richer than the out, + and be able to show you things which cause those who do not understand the + antiquarian trick of clean conveyance to wonder how the devil he came by + them. + </p> + <p> + It may be said that antiquarian articles interest but few customers, and + that we may bawl ourselves as rusty as the wares we deal in without any + one asking; the price of our merchandise. But I do not rest my hopes upon + this department of my labours only. I propose also to have a corresponding + shop for Sentiment, and Dialogues, and Disquisition, which may captivate + the fancy of those who have no relish, as the established phrase goes, for + pure antiquity—a sort of greengrocer’s stall erected in front of my + ironmongery wares, garlanding the rusty memorials of ancient times with + cresses, cabbages, leeks, and water purpy. + </p> + <p> + As I have some idea that I am writing too well to be understood, I humble + myself to ordinary language, and aver, with becoming modesty, that I do + think myself capable of sustaining a publication of a miscellaneous + nature, as like to the Spectator or the Guardian, the Mirror or the + Lounger, as my poor abilities may be able to accomplish. Not that I have + any purpose of imitating Johnson, whose general learning and power of + expression I do not deny, but many of whose Ramblers are little better + than a sort of pageant, where trite and obvious maxims are made to swagger + in lofty and mystic language, and get some credit only because they are + not easily understood. There are some of the great moralist’s papers which + I cannot peruse without thinking on a second-rate masquerade, where the + best-known and least-esteemed characters in town march in as heroes, and + sultans, and so forth, and, by dint of tawdry dresses, get some + consideration until they are found out. It is not, however, prudent to + commence with throwing stones, just when I am striking out windows of my + own. + </p> + <p> + I think even the local situation of Little Croftangry may be considered as + favourable to my undertaking. A nobler contrast there can hardly exist + than that of the huge city, dark with the smoke of ages, and groaning with + the various sounds of active industry or idle revel, and the lofty and + craggy hill, silent and solitary as the grave—one exhibiting the + full tide of existence, pressing and precipitating itself forward with the + force of an inundation; the other resembling some time-worn anchorite, + whose life passes as silent and unobserved as the slender rill which + escapes unheard, and scarce seen, from the fountain of his patron saint. + The city resembles the busy temple, where the modern Comus and Mammon hold + their court, and thousands sacrifice ease, independence, and virtue itself + at their shrine; the misty and lonely mountain seems as a throne to the + majestic but terrible Genius of feudal times, when the same divinities + dispensed coronets and domains to those who had heads to devise and arms + to execute bold enterprises. + </p> + <p> + I have, as it were, the two extremities of the moral world at my + threshold. From the front door a few minutes’ walk brings me into the + heart of a wealthy and populous city; as many paces from my opposite + entrance place me in a solitude as complete as Zimmerman could have + desired. Surely, with such aids to my imagination, I may write better than + if I were in a lodging in the New Town or a garret in the old. As the + Spaniard says, “VIAMOS—CARACCO!” + </p> + <p> + I have not chosen to publish periodically, my reason for which was + twofold. In the first place, I don’t like to be hurried, and have had + enough of duns in an early part of my life to make me reluctant to hear of + or see one, even in the less awful shape of a printer’s devil. But, + secondly, a periodical paper is not easily extended in circulation beyond + the quarter in which it is published. This work, if published in fugitive + numbers, would scarce, without a high pressure on the part of the + bookseller, be raised above the Netherbow, and never could be expected to + ascend to the level of Princes Street. Now, I am ambitious that my + compositions, though having their origin in this Valley of Holyrood, + should not only be extended into those exalted regions I have mentioned, + but also that they should cross the Forth, astonish the long town of + Kirkcaldy, enchant the skippers and colliers of the East of Fife, venture + even into the classic arcades of St. Andrews, and travel as much farther + to the north as the breath of applause will carry their sails. As for a + southward direction, it is not to be hoped for in my fondest dreams. I am + informed that Scottish literature, like Scottish whisky, will be presently + laid under a prohibitory duty. But enough of this. If any reader is dull + enough not to comprehend the advantages which, in point of circulation, a + compact book has over a collection of fugitive numbers, let him try the + range of a gun loaded with hail-shot against that of the same piece + charged with an equal weight of lead consolidated in a single bullet. + </p> + <p> + Besides, it was of less consequence that I should have published + periodically, since I did not mean to solicit or accept of the + contributions of friends, or the criticisms of those who may be less + kindly disposed. Notwithstanding the excellent examples which might be + quoted, I will establish no begging-box, either under the name of a lion’s + head or an ass’s. What is good or ill shall be mine own, or the + contribution of friends to whom I may have private access. Many of my + voluntary assistants might be cleverer than myself, and then I should have + a brilliant article appear among my chiller effusions, like a patch of + lace on a Scottish cloak of Galashiels grey. Some might be worse, and then + I must reject them, to the injury of the feelings of the writer, or else + insert them, to make my own darkness yet more opaque and palpable. “Let + every herring,” says our old-fashioned proverb, “hang by his own head.” + </p> + <p> + One person, however, I may distinguish, as she is now no more, who, living + to the utmost term of human life, honoured me with a great share of her + friendship—as, indeed, we were blood-relatives in the Scottish sense—Heaven + knows how many degrees removed—and friends in the sense of Old + England. I mean the late excellent and regretted Mrs. Bethune Baliol. But + as I design this admirable picture of the olden time for a principal + character in my work, I will only say here that she knew and approved of + my present purpose; and though she declined to contribute to it while she + lived, from a sense of dignified retirement, which she thought became her + age, sex, and condition in life, she left me some materials for carrying + on my proposed work which I coveted when I heard her detail them in + conversation, and which now, when I have their substance in her own + handwriting, I account far more valuable than anything I have myself to + offer. I hope the mentioning her name in conjunction with my own will give + no offence to any of her numerous friends, as it was her own express + pleasure that I should employ the manuscripts which she did me the honour + to bequeath me in the manner in which I have now used them. It must be + added, however, that in most cases I have disguised names, and in some + have added shading and colouring to bring out the narrative. + </p> + <p> + Much of my materials, besides these, are derived from friends, living or + dead. The accuracy of some of these may be doubtful, in which case I shall + be happy to receive, from sufficient authority, the correction of the + errors which must creep into traditional documents. The object of the + whole publication is to throw some light on the manners of Scotland as + they were, and to contrast them occasionally with those of the present + day. My own opinions are in favour of our own times in many respects, but + not in so far as affords means for exercising the imagination or exciting + the interest which attaches to other times. I am glad to be a writer or a + reader in 1826, but I would be most interested in reading or relating what + happened from half a century to a century before. We have the best of it. + Scenes in which our ancestors thought deeply, acted fiercely, and died + desperately, are to us tales to divert the tedium of a winter’s evening, + when we are engaged to no party, or beguile a summer’s morning, when it is + too scorching to ride or walk. + </p> + <p> + Yet I do not mean that my essays and narratives should be limited to + Scotland. I pledge myself to no particular line of subjects, but, on the + contrary, say with Burns— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Perhaps it may turn out a sang, + Perhaps turn out a sermon.” + </pre> + <p> + I have only to add, by way of postscript to these preliminary chapters, + that I have had recourse to Moliere’s recipe, and read my manuscript over + to my old woman, Janet MacEvoy. + </p> + <p> + The dignity of being consulted delighted Janet; and Wilkie, or Allan, + would have made a capital sketch of her, as she sat upright in her chair, + instead of her ordinary lounging posture, knitting her stocking + systematically, as if she meant every twist of her thread and inclination + of the wires to bear burden to the cadence of my voice. I am afraid, too, + that I myself felt more delight than I ought to have done in my own + composition, and read a little more oratorically than I should have + ventured to do before an auditor of whose applause I was not so secure. + And the result did not entirely encourage my plan of censorship. Janet did + indeed seriously incline to the account of my previous life, and bestowed + some Highland maledictions, more emphatic than courteous, on Christie + Steele’s reception of a “shentlemans in distress,” and of her own + mistress’s house too. I omitted for certain reasons, or greatly abridged, + what related to her-self. But when I came to treat of my general views in + publication, I saw poor Janet was entirely thrown out, though, like a + jaded hunter, panting, puffing, and short of wind, she endeavoured at + least to keep up with the chase. Or, rather, her perplexity made her look + all the while like a deaf person ashamed of his infirmity, who does not + understand a word you are saying, yet desires you to believe that he does + understand you, and who is extremely jealous that you suspect his + incapacity. When she saw that some remark was necessary, she resembled + exactly in her criticism the devotee who pitched on the “sweet word + Mesopotamia” as the most edifying note which she could bring away from a + sermon. She indeed hastened to bestow general praise on what she said was + all “very fine;” but chiefly dwelt on what I, had said about Mr. + Timmerman, as she was pleased to call the German philosopher, and supposed + he must be of the same descent with the Highland clan of M’Intyre, which + signifies Son of the Carpenter. “And a fery honourable name too—Shanet’s + own mither was a M’Intyre.” + </p> + <p> + In short, it was plain the latter part of my introduction was altogether + lost on poor Janet; and so, to have acted up to Moliere’s system, I should + have cancelled the whole, and written it anew. But I do not know how it + is. I retained, I suppose, some tolerable opinion of my own composition, + though Janet did not comprehend it, and felt loath to retrench those + Delilahs of the imagination, as Dryden calls them, the tropes and figures + of which are caviar to the multitude. Besides, I hate rewriting as much as + Falstaff did paying back—it is a double labour. So I determined with + myself to consult Janet, in future, only on such things as were within the + limits of her comprehension, and hazard my arguments and my rhetoric on + the public without her imprimatur. I am pretty sure she will “applaud it + done.” and in such narratives as come within her range of thought and + feeling I shall, as I first intended, take the benefit of her + unsophisticated judgment, and attend to it deferentially—that is, + when it happens not to be in peculiar opposition to my own; for, after + all, I say with Almanzor,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Know that I alone am king of me.” + </pre> + <p> + The reader has now my who and my whereabout, the purpose of the work, and + the circumstances under which it is undertaken. He has also a specimen of + the author’s talents, and may judge for himself, and proceed, or send back + the volume to the bookseller, as his own taste shall determine. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. MR. CROFTANGRY’S ACCOUNT OF MRS. BETHUNE BALIOL. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The moon, were she earthly, no nobler. CORIOLANUS. +</pre> + <p> + When we set out on the jolly voyage of life, what a brave fleet there is + around us, as, stretching our finest canvas to the breeze, all “shipshape + and Bristol fashion,” pennons flying, music playing, cheering each other + as we pass, we are rather amused than alarmed when some awkward comrade + goes right ashore for want of pilotage! Alas! when the voyage is well + spent, and we look about us, toil-worn mariners, how few of our ancient + consorts still remain in sight; and they, how torn and wasted, and, like + ourselves, struggling to keep as long as possible off the fatal shore, + against which we are all finally drifting! + </p> + <p> + I felt this very trite but melancholy truth in all its force the other + day, when a packet with a black seal arrived, containing a letter + addressed to me by my late excellent friend Mrs. Martha Bethune Baliol, + and marked with the fatal indorsation, “To be delivered according to + address, after I shall be no more.” A letter from her executors + accompanied the packet, mentioning that they had found in her will a + bequest to me of a painting of some value, which she stated would just fit + the space above my cupboard, and fifty guineas to buy a ring. And thus I + separated, with all the kindness which we had maintained for many years, + from a friend, who, though old enough to have been the companion of my + mother, was yet, in gaiety of spirits and admirable sweetness of temper, + capable of being agreeable, and even animating society, for those who + write themselves in the vaward of youth, an advantage which I have lost + for these five-and-thirty years. The contents of the packet I had no + difficulty in guessing, and have partly hinted at them in the last + chapter. But to instruct the reader in the particulars, and at the same + time to indulge myself with recalling the virtues and agreeable qualities + of my late friend, I will give a short sketch of her manners and habits. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Martha Bethune Baliol was a person of quality and fortune, as these + are esteemed in Scotland. Her family was ancient, and her connections + honourable. She was not fond of specially indicating her exact age, but + her juvenile recollections stretched backwards till before the eventful + year 1745, and she remembered the Highland clans being in possession of + the Scottish capital, though probably only as an indistinct vision. Her + fortune, independent by her father’s bequest, was rendered opulent by the + death of more than one brave brother, who fell successively in the service + of their country, so that the family estates became vested in the only + surviving child of the ancient house of Bethune Baliol. My intimacy was + formed with the excellent lady after this event, and when she was already + something advanced in age. + </p> + <p> + She inhabited, when in Edinburgh, where she regularly spent the winter + season, one of those old hotels which, till of late, were to be found in + the neighbourhood of the Canongate and of the Palace of Holyrood House, + and which, separated from the street, now dirty and vulgar, by paved + courts and gardens of some extent, made amends for an indifferent access, + by showing something of aristocratic state and seclusion when you were + once admitted within their precincts. They have pulled her house down; + for, indeed, betwixt building and burning, every ancient monument of the + Scottish capital is now likely to be utterly demolished. I pause on the + recollections of the place, however; and since nature has denied a pencil + when she placed a pen in my hand, I will endeavour to make words answer + the purpose of delineation. + </p> + <p> + Baliol’s Lodging, so was the mansion named, reared its high stack of + chimneys, among which were seen a turret or two, and one of those small + projecting platforms called bartizans, above the mean and modern buildings + which line the south side of the Canongate, towards the lower end of that + street, and not distant from the Palace. A PORTE COCHERE, having a wicket + for foot passengers, was, upon due occasion, unfolded by a lame old man, + tall, grave, and thin, who tenanted a hovel beside the gate, and acted as + porter. To this office he had been promoted by my friend’s charitable + feelings for an old soldier, and partly by an idea that his head, which + was a very fine one, bore some resemblance to that of Garrick in the + character of Lusignan. He was a man saturnine, silent, and slow in his + proceedings, and would never open the PORTE COCHERE to a hackney coach, + indicating the wicket with his finger as the proper passage for all who + came in that obscure vehicle, which was not permitted to degrade with its + ticketed presence the dignity of Baliol’s Lodging. I do not think this + peculiarity would have met with his lady’s approbation, any more than the + occasional partiality of Lusignan, or, as mortals called him, Archie + Macready, to a dram. But Mrs. Martha Bethune Baliol, conscious that, in + case of conviction, she could never have prevailed upon herself to + dethrone the King of Palestine from the stone bench on which he sat for + hours knitting his stocking, refused, by accrediting the intelligence, + even to put him upon his trial, well judging that he would observe more + wholesome caution if he conceived his character unsuspected, than if he + were detected, and suffered to pass unpunished. For after all, she said, + it would be cruel to dismiss an old Highland soldier for a peccadillo so + appropriate to his country and profession. + </p> + <p> + The stately gate for carriages, or the humble accommodation for + foot-passengers, admitted into a narrow and short passage running between + two rows of lime-trees, whose green foliage during the spring contrasted + strangely with the swart complexion of the two walls by the side of which + they grew. This access led to the front of the house, which was formed by + two gable ends, notched, and having their windows adorned with heavy + architectural ornaments. They joined each other at right angles; and a + half circular tower, which contained the entrance and the staircase, + occupied the point of junction, and rounded the acute angle. One of other + two sides of the little court, in which there was just sufficient room to + turn a carriage, was occupied by some low buildings answering the purpose + of offices; the other, by a parapet surrounded by a highly-ornamented iron + railing, twined round with honeysuckle and other parasitical shrubs, which + permitted the eye to peep into a pretty suburban garden, extending down to + the road called the South Back of the Canongate, and boasting a number of + old trees, many flowers, and even some fruit. We must not forget to state + that the extreme cleanliness of the courtyard was such as intimated that + mop and pail had done their utmost in that favoured spot to atone for the + general dirt and dinginess of the quarter where the premises were + situated. + </p> + <p> + Over the doorway were the arms of Bethune and Baliol, with various other + devices, carved in stone. The door itself was studded with iron nails, and + formed of black oak; an iron rasp, as it was called, was placed on it, + instead of a knocker, for the purpose of summoning the attendants. [See + Note 3.—Iron Rasp.] He who usually appeared at the summons was a + smart lad, in a handsome livery, the son of Mrs. Martha’s gardener at + Mount Baliol. Now and then a servant girl, nicely but plainly dressed, and + fully accoutred with stockings and shoes, would perform this duty; and + twice or thrice I remember being admitted by Beauffet himself, whose + exterior looked as much like that of a clergyman of rank as the butler of + a gentleman’s family. He had been valet-de-chambre to the last Sir Richard + Bethune Baliol, and was, a person highly trusted by the present lady. A + full stand, as it is called in Scotland, of garments of a dark colour, + gold buckles in his shoes and at the knees of his breeches, with his hair + regularly dressed and powdered, announced him to be a domestic of trust + and importance. His mistress used to say of him,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “He is sad and civil, + And suits well for a servant with my fortunes.” + </pre> + <p> + As no one can escape scandal, some said that Beauffet made a rather better + thing of the place than the modesty of his old-fashioned wages would, + unassisted, have amounted to. But the man was always very civil to me. He + had been long in the family, had enjoyed legacies, and lain by a something + of his own, upon which he now enjoys ease with dignity, in as far as his + newly-married wife, Tibbie Shortacres, will permit him. + </p> + <p> + The Lodging—dearest reader, if you are tired, pray pass over the + next four or five pages—was not by any means so large as its + external appearance led people to conjecture. The interior accommodation + was much cut up by cross walls and long passages, and that neglect of + economizing space which characterizes old Scottish architecture. But there + was far more room than my old friend required, even when she had, as was + often the case, four or five young cousins under her protection; and I + believe much of the house was unoccupied. Mrs. Bethune Baliol never, in my + presence, showed herself so much offended as once with a meddling person + who advised her to have the windows of these supernumerary apartments + built up to save the tax. She said in ire that, while she lived, the light + of God should visit the house of her fathers; and while she had a penny, + king and country should have their due. Indeed, she was punctiliously + loyal, even in that most staggering test of loyalty, the payment of + imposts. Mr. Beauffet told me he was ordered to offer a glass of wine to + the person who collected the income tax, and that the poor man was so + overcome by a reception so unwontedly generous, that he had well-nigh + fainted on the spot. + </p> + <p> + You entered by a matted anteroom into the eating-parlour, filled with + old-fashioned furniture, and hung with family portraits, which, excepting + one of Sir Bernard Bethune, in James the Sixth’s time, said to be by + Jameson, were exceedingly frightful. A saloon, as it was called, a long, + narrow chamber, led out of the dining-parlour, and served for a + drawing-room. It was a pleasant apartment, looking out upon the south + flank of Holyrood House, the gigantic slope of Arthur’s Seat, and the + girdle of lofty rocks called Salisbury Crags; objects so rudely wild, that + the mind can hardly conceive them to exist in the vicinage of a populous + metropolis. [The Rev. Mr. Bowles derives the name of these crags, as of + the Episcopal city in the west of England, from the same root, both, in + his opinion, which he very ably defends and illustrates, having been the + sites of Druidical temples.] The paintings of the saloon came from abroad, + and had some of them much merit. To see the best of them, however, you + must be admitted into the very PENETRALIA of the temple, and allowed to + draw the tapestry at the upper end of the saloon, and enter Mrs. Martha’s + own special dressing-room. This was a charming apartment, of which it + would be difficult to describe the form, it had so many recesses which + were filled up with shelves of ebony and cabinets of japan and ormolu—some + for holding books, of which Mrs. Martha had an admirable collection, some + for a display of ornamental china, others for shells and similar + curiosities. In a little niche, half screened by a curtain of crimson + silk, was disposed a suit of tilting armour of bright steel inlaid with + silver, which had been worn on some memorable occasion by Sir Bernard + Bethune, already mentioned; while over the canopy of the niche hung the + broadsword with which her father had attempted to change the fortunes of + Britain in 1715, and the spontoon which her elder brother bore when he was + leading on a company of the Black Watch at Fontenoy. [The well-known + original designation of the gallant 42nd Regiment. Being the first corps + raised for the royal service in the Highlands, and allowed to retain their + national garb, they were thus named from the contrast which their dark + tartans furnished to the scarlet and white of the other regiments.] + </p> + <p> + There were some Italian and Flemish pictures of admitted authenticity, a + few genuine bronzes, and other objects of curiosity, which her brothers or + herself had picked up while abroad. In short, it was a place where the + idle were tempted to become studious, the studious to grow idle where the + grave might find matter to make them gay, and the gay subjects for + gravity. + </p> + <p> + That it might maintain some title to its name, I must not forget to say + that the lady’s dressing-room exhibited a superb mirror, framed in silver + filigree work; a beautiful toilette, the cover of which was of Flanders + lace; and a set of boxes corresponding in materials and work to the frame + of the mirror. + </p> + <p> + This dressing apparatus, however, was mere matter of parade. Mrs. Martha + Bethune Baliol always went through the actual duties of the toilette in an + inner apartment, which corresponded with her sleeping-room by a small + detached staircase. There were, I believe, more than one of those TURNPIKE + STAIRS, as they were called, about the house, by which the public rooms, + all of which entered through each other, were accommodated with separate + and independent modes of access. In the little boudoir we have described, + Mrs. Martha Baliol had her choicest meetings. She kept early hours; and if + you went in the morning, you must not reckon that space of day as + extending beyond three o’clock, or four at the utmost. These vigilant + habits were attended with some restraint on her visitors, but they were + indemnified by your always finding the best society and the best + information which were to be had for the day in the Scottish capital. + Without at all affecting the blue stocking, she liked books. They amused + her; and if the authors were persons of character, she thought she owed + them a debt of civility, which she loved to discharge by personal + kindness. When she gave a dinner to a small party, which she did now and + then, she had the good nature to look for, and the good luck to discover, + what sort of people suited each other best, and chose her company as Duke + Theseus did his hounds,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Matched in mouth like bells, + Each under each,” + [Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream, Act IV. Sc. I.] +</pre> + <p> + so that every guest could take his part in the cry, instead of one mighty + Tom of a fellow, like Dr. Johnson, silencing all besides by the tremendous + depth of his diapason. On such occasions she afforded CHERE EXQUISE; and + every now and then there was some dish of French, or even Scottish + derivation, which, as well as the numerous assortment of VINS + EXTRAORDINAIRES produced by Mr. Beauffet, gave a sort of antique and + foreign air to the entertainment, which rendered it more interesting. + </p> + <p> + It was a great thing to be asked to such parties; and not less so to be + invited to the early CONVERSAZIONE, which, in spite of fashion, by dint of + the best coffee, the finest tea, and CHASSE CAFE that would have called + the dead to life, she contrived now and then to assemble in her saloon + already mentioned, at the unnatural hour of eight in the evening. At such + time the cheerful old lady seemed to enjoy herself so much in the + happiness of her guests that they exerted themselves in turn to prolong + her amusement and their own; and a certain charm was excited around, + seldom to be met with in parties of pleasure, and which was founded on the + general desire of every one present to contribute something to the common + amusement. + </p> + <p> + But although it was a great privilege to be admitted to wait on my + excellent friend in the morning, or be invited to her dinner or evening + parties, I prized still higher the right which I had acquired, by old + acquaintance, of visiting Baliol’s Lodging upon the chance of finding its + venerable inhabitant preparing for tea, just about six o’clock in the + evening. It was only to two or three old friends that she permitted this + freedom; nor was this sort of chance-party ever allowed to extend itself + beyond five in number. The answer to those who came later announced that + the company was filled up for the evening, which had the double effect of + making those who waited on Mrs. Bethune Baliol in this unceremonious + manner punctual in observing her hour, and of adding the zest of a little + difficulty to the enjoyment of the party. + </p> + <p> + It more frequently happened that only one or two persons partook of this + refreshment on the same evening; or, supposing the case of a single + gentleman, Mrs. Martha, though she did not hesitate to admit him to her + boudoir, after the privilege of the French and the old Scottish school, + took care, as she used to say, to prescribe all possible propriety, by + commanding the attendance of her principal female attendant, Mrs. Alice + Lambskin, who might, from the gravity and dignity of her appearance, have + sufficed to matronize a whole boarding-school, instead of one maiden lady + of eighty and upwards. As the weather permitted, Mrs. Alice sat duly + remote from the company in a FAUTEUIL behind the projecting chimney-piece, + or in the embrasure of a window, and prosecuted in Carthusian silence, + with indefatigable zeal, a piece of embroidery, which seemed no bad emblem + of eternity. + </p> + <p> + But I have neglected all this while to introduce my friend herself to the + reader—at least so far as words can convey the peculiarities by + which her appearance and conversation were distinguished. + </p> + <p> + A little woman, with ordinary features and an ordinary form, and hair + which in youth had no decided colour, we may believe Mrs. Martha when she + said of herself that she was never remarkable for personal charms; a + modest admission, which was readily confirmed by certain old ladies, her + contemporaries, who, whatever might have been the youthful advantages + which they more than hinted had been formerly their own share, were now in + personal appearance, as well as in everything else, far inferior to my + accomplished friend. Mrs. Martha’s features had been of a kind which might + be said to wear well; their irregularity was now of little consequence, + animated, as they were, by the vivacity of her conversation. Her teeth + were excellent, and her eyes, although inclining to grey, were lively, + laughing, and undimmed by time. A slight shade of complexion, more + brilliant than her years promised, subjected my friend amongst strangers + to the suspicion of having stretched her foreign habits as far as the + prudent touch of the rouge. But it was a calumny; for when telling or + listening to an interesting and affecting story, I have seen her colour + come and go as if it played on the cheek of eighteen. + </p> + <p> + Her hair, whatever its former deficiencies was now the most beautiful + white that time could bleach, and was disposed with some degree of + pretension, though in the simplest manner possible, so as to appear neatly + smoothed under a cap of Flanders lace, of an old-fashioned but, as I + thought, of a very handsome form, which undoubtedly has a name, and I + would endeavour to recur to it, if I thought it would make my description + a bit more intelligible. I think I have heard her say these favourite caps + had been her mother’s, and had come in fashion with a peculiar kind of wig + used by the gentlemen about the time of the battle of Ramillies. The rest + of her dress was always rather costly and distinguished, especially in the + evening. A silk or satin gown of some colour becoming her age, and of a + form which, though complying to a certain degree with the present fashion, + had always a reference to some more distant period, was garnished with + triple ruffles. Her shoes had diamond buckles, and were raised a little at + heel, an advantage which, possessed in her youth, she alleged her size + would not permit her to forego in her old age. She always wore rings, + bracelets, and other ornaments of value, either for the materials or the + workmanship; nay, perhaps she was a little profuse in this species of + display. But she wore them as subordinate matters, to which the habits of + being constantly in high life rendered her indifferent; she wore them + because her rank required it, and thought no more of them as articles of + finery than a gentleman dressed for dinner thinks of his clean linen and + well-brushed coat, the consciousness of which embarrasses the rustic beau + on a Sunday. + </p> + <p> + Now and then, however, if a gem or ornament chanced to be noticed for its + beauty or singularity, the observation usually led the way to an + entertaining account of the manner in which it had been acquired, or the + person from whom it had descended to its present possessor. On such and + similar occasions my old friend spoke willingly, which is not uncommon; + but she also, which is more rare, spoke remarkably well, and had in her + little narratives concerning foreign parts or former days, which formed an + interesting part of her conversation, the singular art of dismissing all + the usual protracted tautology respecting time, place, and circumstances + which is apt to settle like a mist upon the cold and languid tales of age, + and at the same time of bringing forward, dwelling upon, and illustrating + those incidents and characters which give point and interest to the story. + </p> + <p> + She had, as we have hinted, travelled a good deal in foreign countries; + for a brother, to whom she was much attached, had been sent upon various + missions of national importance to the Continent, and she had more than + once embraced the opportunity of accompanying him. This furnished a great + addition to the information which she could supply, especially during the + last war, when the Continent was for so many years hermetically sealed + against the English nation. But, besides, Mrs. Bethune Baliol visited + different countries, not in the modern fashion, when English travel in + caravans together, and see in France and Italy little besides the same + society which they might have enjoyed at home. On the contrary, she + mingled when abroad with the natives of those countries she visited, and + enjoyed at once the advantage of their society, and the pleasure of + comparing it with that of Britain. + </p> + <p> + In the course of her becoming habituated with foreign manners, Mrs. + Bethune Baliol had, perhaps, acquired some slight tincture of them + herself. Yet I was always persuaded that the peculiar vivacity of look and + manner—the pointed and appropriate action with which she accompanied + what she said—the use of the gold and gemmed TABATIERE, or rather, I + should say, BONBONNIERE (for she took no snuff, and the little box + contained only a few pieces of candled angelica, or some such ladylike + sweetmeat), were of real old-fashioned Scottish growth, and such as might + have graced the tea-table of Susannah, Countess of Eglinton, the patroness + of Allan Ramsay [See Note 4.—Countess of Eglinton.], or of the Hon. + Mrs. Colonel Ogilvy, who was another mirror by whom the Maidens of Auld + Reekie were required to dress themselves. Although well acquainted with + the customs of other countries, her manners had been chiefly formed in her + own, at a time when great folk lived within little space and when the + distinguished names of the highest society gave to Edinburgh the ECLAT + which we now endeavour to derive from the unbounded expense and extended + circle of our pleasures. + </p> + <p> + I was more confirmed in this opinion by the peculiarity of the dialect + which Mrs. Baliol used. It was Scottish—decidedly Scottish—often + containing phrases and words little used in the present day. But then her + tone and mode of pronunciation were as different from the usual accent of + the ordinary Scotch PATOIS, as the accent of St. James’s is from that of + Billingsgate. The vowels were not pronounced much broader than in the + Italian language, and there was none of the disagreeable drawl which is so + offensive to southern ears. In short, it seemed to be the Scottish as + spoken by the ancient Court of Scotland, to which no idea of vulgarity + could be attached; and the lively manners and gestures with which it was + accompanied were so completely in accord with the sound of the voice and + the style of talking, that I cannot assign them a different origin. In + long derivation, perhaps the manner of the Scottish court might have been + originally formed on that of France, to which it had certainly some + affinity; but I will live and die in the belief that those of Mrs. Baliol, + as pleasing as they were peculiar, came to her by direct descent from the + high dames who anciently adorned with their presence the royal halls of + Holyrood. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. MRS. BALIOL ASSISTS MR. CROFTANGRY IN HIS LITERARY + </h2> + <p> + SPECULATIONS. + </p> + <p> + Such as I have described Mrs. Bethune Baliol, the reader will easily + believe that, when I thought of the miscellaneous nature of my work, I + rested upon the information she possessed, and her communicative + disposition, as one of the principal supports of my enterprise. Indeed, + she by no means disapproved of my proposed publication, though expressing + herself very doubtful how far she could personally assist it—a doubt + which might be, perhaps, set down to a little ladylike coquetry, which + required to be sued for the boon she was not unwilling to grant. Or, + perhaps, the good old lady, conscious that her unusual term of years must + soon draw to a close, preferred bequeathing the materials in the shape of + a legacy, to subjecting them to the judgment of a critical public during + her lifetime. + </p> + <p> + Many a time I used, in our conversations of the Canongate, to resume my + request of assistance, from a sense that my friend was the most valuable + depository of Scottish traditions that was probably now to be found. This + was a subject on which my mind was so much made up that, when I heard her + carry her description of manners so far back beyond her own time, and + describe how Fletcher of Salton spoke, how Graham of Claverhouse danced, + what were the jewels worn by the famous Duchess of Lauderdale, and how she + came by them, I could not help telling her I thought her some fairy, who + cheated us by retaining the appearance of a mortal of our own day, when, + in fact, she had witnessed the revolutions of centuries. She was much + diverted when I required her to take some solemn oath that she had not + danced at the balls given by Mary of Este, when her unhappy husband + occupied Holyrood in a species of honourable banishment; [The Duke of York + afterwards James II., frequently resided in Holyrood House when his + religion rendered him an object of suspicion to the English Parliament.] + or asked whether she could not recollect Charles the Second when he came + to Scotland in 1650, and did not possess some slight recollections of the + bold usurper who drove him beyond the Forth. + </p> + <p> + “BEAU COUSIN,” she said, laughing, “none of these do I remember + personally, but you must know there has been wonderfully little change on + my natural temper from youth to age. From which it follows, cousin, that, + being even now something too young in spirit for the years which Time has + marked me in his calendar, I was, when a girl, a little too old for those + of my own standing, and as much inclined at that period to keep the + society of elder persons, as I am now disposed to admit the company of gay + young fellows of fifty or sixty like yourself, rather than collect about + me all the octogenarians. Now, although I do not actually come from + Elfland, and therefore cannot boast any personal knowledge of the great + personages you enquire about, yet I have seen and heard those who knew + them well, and who have given me as distinct an account of them as I could + give you myself of the Empress Queen, or Frederick of Prussia; and I will + frankly add,” said she, laughing and offering her BONBONNIERE, “that I + HAVE heard so much of the years which immediately succeeded the + Revolution, that I sometimes am apt to confuse the vivid descriptions + fixed on my memory by the frequent and animated recitation of others, for + things which I myself have actually witnessed. I caught myself but + yesterday describing to Lord M—the riding of the last Scottish + Parliament, with as much minuteness as if I had seen it, as my mother did, + from the balcony in front of Lord Moray’s Lodging in the Canongate.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure you must have given Lord M— a high treat.” + </p> + <p> + “I treated him to a hearty laugh, I believe,” she replied; “but it is you, + you vile seducer of youth, who lead me into such follies. But I will be on + my guard against my own weakness. I do not well know if the Wandering Jew + is supposed to have a wife, but I should be sorry a decent middle-aged + Scottish gentlewoman should be suspected of identity with such a + supernatural person.” + </p> + <p> + “For all that, I must torture you a little more, MA BELLE COUSINE, with my + interrogatories; for how shall I ever turn author unless on the strength + of the information which you have so often procured me on the ancient + state of manners?” + </p> + <p> + “Stay, I cannot allow you to give your points of enquiry a name so very + venerable, if I am expected to answer them. Ancient is a term for + antediluvians. You may catechise me about the battle of Flodden, or ask + particulars about Bruce and Wallace, under pretext of curiosity after + ancient manners; and that last subject would wake my Baliol blood, you + know.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but, Mrs. Baliol, suppose we settle our era: you do not call the + accession of James the Sixth to the kingdom of Britain very ancient?” + </p> + <p> + “Umph! no, cousin; I think I could tell you more of that than folk + nowadays remember. For instance, that as James was trooping towards + England, bag and baggage, his journey was stopped near Cockenzie by + meeting the funeral of the Earl of Winton, the old and faithful servant + and follower of his ill-fated mother, poor Mary! It was an ill omen for + the INFARE, and so was seen of it, cousin.” [See Note 5.—Earl of + Winton.] + </p> + <p> + I did not choose to prosecute this subject, well knowing Mrs. Bethune + Baliol did not like to be much pressed on the subject of the Stewarts, + whose misfortunes she pitied, the rather that her father had espoused + their cause. And yet her attachment to the present dynasty being very + sincere, and even ardent, more especially as her family had served his + late Majesty both in peace and war, she experienced a little embarrassment + in reconciling her opinions respecting the exiled family with those she + entertained for the present. In fact, like many an old Jacobite, she was + contented to be somewhat inconsistent on the subject, comforting herself + that NOW everything stood as it ought to do, and that there was no use in + looking back narrowly on the right or wrong of the matter half a century + ago. + </p> + <p> + “The Highlands,” I suggested, “should furnish you with ample subjects of + recollection. You have witnessed the complete change of that primeval + country, and have seen a race not far removed from the earliest period of + society melted down into the great mass of civilization; and that could + not happen without incidents striking in themselves, and curious as + chapters in the history of the human race.” + </p> + <p> + “It is very true,” said Mrs. Baliol; “one would think it should have + struck the observers greatly, and yet it scarcely did so. For me, I was no + Highlander myself, and the Highland chiefs of old, of whom I certainly + knew several, had little in their manners to distinguish them from the + Lowland gentry, when they mixed in society in Edinburgh, and assumed the + Lowland dress. Their peculiar character was for the clansmen at home; and + you must not imagine that they swaggered about in plaids and broadswords + at the Cross, or came to the Assembly Rooms in bonnets and kilts.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember,” said I, “that Swift, in his Journal, tells Stella he had + dined in the house of a Scots nobleman, with two Highland chiefs, whom he + had found as well-bred men as he had ever met with.” [Extract of Journal + to Stella.—“I dined to-day (12th March 1712) with Lord Treasurer and + two gentlemen of the Highlands of Scotland, yet very polite men.” SWIFT’S + WORKS, VOL. III. p.7. EDIN. 1824.] + </p> + <p> + “Very likely,” said my friend. “The extremes of society approach much more + closely to each other than perhaps the Dean of Saint Patrick’s expected. + The savage is always to a certain degree polite. Besides, going always + armed, and having a very punctilious idea of their own gentility and + consequence, they usually behaved to each other and to the Lowlanders with + a good deal of formal politeness, which sometimes even procured them the + character of insincerity.” + </p> + <p> + “Falsehood belongs to an early period of society, as well as the + deferential forms which we style politeness,” I replied. “A child does not + see the least moral beauty in truth until he has been flogged half a dozen + times. It is so easy, and apparently so natural, to deny what you cannot + be easily convicted of, that a savage as well as a child lies to excuse + himself almost as instinctively as he raises his hand to protect his head. + The old saying, ‘Confess and be hanged,’ carries much argument in it. I + observed a remark the other day in old Birrel. He mentions that M’Gregor + of Glenstrae and some of his people had surrendered themselves to one of + the Earls of Argyle, upon the express condition that they should be + conveyed safe into England. The Maccallum Mhor of the day kept the word of + promise, but it was only to the ear. He indeed sent his captives to + Berwick, where they had an airing on the other side of the Tweed; but it + was under the custody of a strong guard, by whom they were brought back to + Edinburgh, and delivered to the executioner. This, Birrel calls keeping a + Highlandman’s promise.” [See Note 6.—M’Gregor of Glenstrae.] + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied Mrs. Baliol, “I might add that many of the Highland chiefs + whom I knew in former days had been brought up in France, which might + improve their politeness, though perhaps it did not amend their sincerity. + But considering that, belonging to the depressed and defeated faction in + the state, they were compelled sometimes to use dissimulation, you must + set their uniform fidelity to their friends; against their occasional + falsehood to their enemies, and then you will not judge poor John + Highlandman too severely. They were in a state of society where bright + lights are strongly contrasted with deep shadows.” + </p> + <p> + “It is to that point I would bring you, MA BELLE COUSINE; and therefore + they are most proper subjects for composition.” + </p> + <p> + “And you want to turn composer, my good friend, and set my old tales to + some popular tune? But there have been too many composers, if that be the + word, in the field before. The Highlands WERE indeed a rich mine; but they + have, I think, been fairly wrought out, as a good tune is grinded into + vulgarity when it descends to the hurdy-gurdy and the barrel-organ.” + </p> + <p> + “If it be really tune,” I replied, “it will recover its better qualities + when it gets into the hands of better artists.” + </p> + <p> + “Umph!” said Mrs. Baliol, tapping her box, “we are happy in our own good + opinion this evening, Mr. Croftangry. And so you think you can restore the + gloss to the tartan which it has lost by being dragged through so many + fingers?” + </p> + <p> + “With your assistance to procure materials, my dear lady, much, I think, + may be done.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I must do my best, I suppose, though all I know about the Gael is + but of little consequence. Indeed, I gathered it chiefly from Donald + MacLeish.” + </p> + <p> + “And who might Donald MacLeish be?” + </p> + <p> + “Neither bard nor sennachie, I assure you, nor monk nor hermit, the + approved authorities for old traditions. Donald was as good a postilion as + ever drove a chaise and pair between Glencroe and Inverary. I assure you, + when I give you my Highland anecdotes, you will hear much of Donald + MacLeish. He was Alice Lambskin’s beau and mine through a long Highland + tour.” + </p> + <p> + “But when am I to possess these anecdotes? you answer me as Harley did + poor Prior— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Let that be done which Mat doth say— + Yea, quoth the Earl, but not to-day.’” + </pre> + <p> + “Well, MON BEAU COUSIN, if you begin to remind me of my cruelty, I must + remind you it has struck nine on the Abbey clock, and it is time you were + going home to Little Croftangry. For my promise to assist your antiquarian + researches, be assured I will one day keep it to the utmost extent. It + shall not be a Highlandman’s promise, as your old citizen calls it.” + </p> + <p> + I by this time suspected the purpose of my friend’s procrastination; and + it saddened my heart to reflect that I was not to get the information + which I desired, excepting in the shape of a legacy. I found accordingly, + in the packet transmitted to me after the excellent lady’s death, several + anecdotes respecting the Highlands, from which I have selected that which + follows, chiefly on account of its possessing great power over the + feelings of my critical housekeeper, Janet M’Evoy, who wept most bitterly + when I read it to her. + </p> + <p> + It is, however, but a very simple tale, and may have no interest for + persons beyond Janet’s rank of life or understanding. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0012" id="link2H_4_0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THE HIGHLAND WIDOW + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + It wound as near as near could be, + But what it is she cannot tell; + On the other side it seemed to be + Of the huge broad-breasted old oak-tree. COLERIDGE. +</pre> + <p> + Mrs. Bethune Baliol’s memorandum begins thus:— + </p> + <p> + It is five-and-thirty, or perhaps nearer forty years ago, since, to + relieve the dejection of spirits occasioned by a great family loss + sustained two or three months before, I undertook what was called the + short Highland tour. This had become in some degree fashionable; but + though the military roads were excellent, yet the accommodation was so + indifferent that it was reckoned a little adventure to accomplish it. + Besides, the Highlands, though now as peaceable as any part of King + George’s dominions, was a sound which still carried terror, while so many + survived who had witnessed the insurrection of 1745; and a vague idea of + fear was impressed on many as they looked from the towers of Stirling + northward to the huge chain of mountains, which rises like a dusky rampart + to conceal in its recesses a people whose dress, manners, and language + differed still very much from those of their Lowland countrymen. For my + part, I come of a race not greatly subject to apprehensions arising from + imagination only. I had some Highland relatives; know several of their + families of distinction; and though only having the company of my + bower-maiden, Mrs. Alice Lambskin, I went on my journey fearless. + </p> + <p> + But then I had a guide and cicerone, almost equal to Greatheart in the + Pilgrim’s Progress, in no less a person than Donald MacLeish, the + postilion whom I hired at Stirling, with a pair of able-bodied horses, as + steady as Donald himself, to drag my carriage, my duenna, and myself, + wheresoever it was my pleasure to go. + </p> + <p> + Donald MacLeish was one of a race of post-boys whom, I suppose, + mail-coaches and steamboats have put out of fashion. They were to be found + chiefly at Perth, Stirling, or Glasgow, where they and their horses were + usually hired by travellers, or tourists, to accomplish such journeys of + business or pleasure as they might have to perform in the land of the + Gael. This class of persons approached to the character of what is called + abroad a CONDUCTEUR; or might be compared to the sailing-master on board a + British ship of war, who follows out after his own manner the course which + the captain commands him to observe. You explained to your postilion the + length of your tour, and the objects you were desirous it should embrace; + and you found him perfectly competent to fix the places of rest or + refreshment, with due attention that those should be chosen with reference + to your convenience, and to any points of interest which you might desire + to visit. + </p> + <p> + The qualifications of such a person were necessarily much superior to + those of the “first ready,” who gallops thrice-a-day over the same ten + miles. Donald MacLeish, besides being quite alert at repairing all + ordinary accidents to his horses and carriage, and in making shift to + support them, where forage was scarce, with such substitutes as bannocks + and cakes, was likewise a man of intellectual resources. He had acquired a + general knowledge of the traditional stories of the country which he had + traversed so often; and if encouraged (for Donald was a man of the most + decorous reserve), he would willingly point out to you the site of the + principal clan-battles, and recount the most remarkable legends by which + the road, and the objects which occurred in travelling it, had been + distinguished. There was some originality in the man’s habits of thinking + and expressing himself, his turn for legendary lore strangely contrasting + with a portion of the knowing shrewdness belonging to his actual + occupation, which made his conversation amuse the way well enough. + </p> + <p> + Add to this, Donald knew all his peculiar duties in the country which he + traversed so frequently. He could tell, to a day, when they would “be + killing” lamb at Tyndrum or Glenuilt; so that the stranger would have some + chance of being fed like a Christian; and knew to a mile the last village + where it was possible to procure a wheaten loaf for the guidance of those + who were little familiar with the Land of Cakes. He was acquainted with + the road every mile, and could tell to an inch which side of a Highland + bridge was passable, which decidedly dangerous. [This is, or was at least, + a necessary accomplishment. In one of the most beautiful districts of the + Highlands was, not many years since, a bridge bearing this startling + caution, “Keep to the right side, the left being dangerous.”] In short, + Donald MacLeish was not only our faithful attendant and steady servant, + but our humble and obliging friend; and though I have known the + half-classical cicerone of Italy, the talkative French valet-de-place, and + even the muleteer of Spain, who piques himself on being a maize-eater, and + whose honour is not to be questioned without danger, I do not think I have + ever had so sensible and intelligent a guide. + </p> + <p> + Our motions were of course under Donald’s direction; and it frequently + happened, when the weather was serene, that we preferred halting to rest + his horses even where there was no established stage, and taking our + refreshment under a crag, from which leaped a waterfall, or beside the + verge of a fountain, enamelled with verdant turf and wild-flowers. Donald + had an eye for such spots, and though he had, I dare say, never read Gil + Blas or Don Quixote, yet he chose such halting-places as Le Sage or + Cervantes would have described. Very often, as he observed the pleasure I + took in conversing with the country people, he would manage to fix our + place of rest near a cottage, where there was some old Gael whose + broadsword had blazed at Falkirk or Preston, and who seemed the frail yet + faithful record of times which had passed away. Or he would contrive to + quarter us, as far as a cup of tea went, upon the hospitality of some + parish minister of worth and intelligence, or some country family of the + better class, who mingled with the wild simplicity of their original + manners, and their ready and hospitable welcome, a sort of courtesy + belonging to a people, the lowest of whom are accustomed to consider + themselves as being, according to the Spanish phrase, “as good gentlemen + as the king, only not quite so rich.” + </p> + <p> + To all such persons Donald MacLeish was well known, and his introduction + passed as current as if we had brought letters from some high chief of the + country. + </p> + <p> + Sometimes it happened that the Highland hospitality, which welcomed us + with all the variety of mountain fare, preparations of milk and eggs, and + girdle-cakes of various kinds, as well as more substantial dainties, + according to the inhabitant’s means of regaling the passenger, descended + rather too exuberantly on Donald MacLeish in the shape of mountain dew. + Poor Donald! he was on such occasions like Gideon’s fleece—moist + with the noble element, which, of course, fell not on us. But it was his + only fault, and when pressed to drink DOCH-AN-DORROCH to my ladyship’s + good health, it would have been ill taken to have refused the pledge; nor + was he willing to do such discourtesy. It was, I repeat, his only fault. + Nor had we any great right to complain; for if it rendered him a little + more talkative, it augmented his ordinary share of punctilious civility, + and he only drove slower, and talked longer and more pompously, than when + he had not come by a drop of usquebaugh. It was, we remarked, only on such + occasions that Donald talked with an air of importance of the family of + MacLeish; and we had no title to be scrupulous in censuring a foible, the + consequences of which were confined within such innocent limits. + </p> + <p> + We became so much accustomed to Donald’s mode of managing us, that we + observed with some interest the art which he used to produce a little + agreeable surprise, by concealing from us the spot where he proposed our + halt to be made, when it was of an unusual and interesting character. This + was so much his wont that, when he made apologies at setting off for being + obliged to stop in some strange, solitary place till the horses should eat + the corn which he brought on with them for that purpose, our imagination + used to be on the stretch to guess what romantic retreat he had secretly + fixed upon for our noontide baiting-place. + </p> + <p> + We had spent the greater part of the morning at the delightful village of + Dalmally, and had gone upon the lake under the guidance of the excellent + clergyman who was then incumbent at Glenorquhy, [This venerable and + hospitable gentleman’s name was MacIntyre.] and had heard a hundred + legends of the stern chiefs of Loch Awe, Duncan with the thrum bonnet, and + the other lords of the now mouldering towers of Kilchurn. [See Note 7.—Loch + Awe.] Thus it was later than usual when we set out on our journey, after a + hint or two from Donald concerning the length of the way to the next + stage, as there was no good halting-place between Dalmally and Oban. + </p> + <p> + Having bid adieu to our venerable and kind cicerone, we proceeded on our + tour, winding round the tremendous mountain called Cruachan Ben, which + rushes down in all its majesty of rocks and wilderness on the lake, + leaving only a pass, in which, notwithstanding its extreme strength, the + warlike clan of MacDougal of Lorn were almost destroyed by the sagacious + Robert Bruce. That King, the Wellington of his day, had accomplished, by a + forced march, the unexpected manoeuvre of forcing a body of troops round + the other side of the mountain, and thus placed them in the flank and in + the rear of the men of Lorn, whom at the same time, he attacked in front. + The great number of cairns yet visible as you descend the pass on the + westward side shows the extent of the vengeance which Bruce exhausted on + his inveterate and personal enemies. I am, you know, the sister of + soldiers, and it has since struck me forcibly that the manoeuvre which + Donald described, resembled those of Wellington or of Bonaparte. He was a + great man Robert Bruce, even a Baliol must admit that; although it begins + now to be allowed that his title to the crown was scarce so good as that + of the unfortunate family with whom he contended. But let that pass. The + slaughter had been the greater, as the deep and rapid river Awe is + disgorged from the lake just in the rear of the fugitives, and encircles + the base of the tremendous mountain; so that the retreat of the + unfortunate fleers was intercepted on all sides by the inaccessible + character of the country, which had seemed to promise them defence and + protection. [See Note 8.—Battle betwixt the armies of the Bruce and + MacDougal of Lorn.] + </p> + <p> + Musing, like the Irish lady in the song, “upon things which are long + enough a-gone,” [This is a line from a very pathetic ballad which I heard + sung by one of the young ladies of Edgeworthstown in 1825. I do not know + that it has been printed.] we felt no impatience at the slow and almost + creeping pace with which our conductor proceeded along General Wade’s + military road, which never or rarely condescends to turn aside from the + steepest ascent, but proceeds right up and down hill, with the + indifference to height and hollow, steep or level, indicated by the old + Roman engineers. Still, however, the substantial excellence of these great + works—for such are the military highways in the Highlands—deserved + the compliment of the poet, who, whether he came from our sister kingdom, + and spoke in his own dialect, or whether he supposed those whom he + addressed might have some national pretension to the second sight, + produced the celebrated couplet,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Had you but seen these roads BEFORE they were made, + You would hold up your hands and bless General Wade.” + </pre> + <p> + Nothing, indeed, can be more wonderful than to see these wildernesses + penetrated and pervious in every quarter by broad accesses of the best + possible construction, and so superior to what the country could have + demanded for many centuries for any pacific purpose of commercial + intercourse. Thus the traces of war are sometimes happily accommodated to + the purposes of peace. The victories of Bonaparte have been without + results but his road over the Simplon will long be the communication + betwixt peaceful countries, who will apply to the ends of commerce and + friendly intercourse that gigantic work, which was formed for the + ambitious purpose of warlike invasion. + </p> + <p> + While we were thus stealing along, we gradually turned round the shoulder + of Ben Cruachan, and descending the course of the foaming and rapid Awe, + left behind us the expanse of the majestic lake which gives birth to that + impetuous river. The rocks and precipices which stooped down + perpendicularly on our path on the right hand exhibited a few remains of + the wood which once clothed them, but which had in later times been felled + to supply, Donald MacLeish informed us, the iron foundries at the Bunawe. + This made us fix our eyes with interest on one large oak, which grew on + the left hand towards the river. It seemed a tree of extraordinary + magnitude and picturesque beauty, and stood just where there appeared to + be a few roods of open ground lying among huge stones, which had rolled + down from the mountain. To add to the romance of the situation, the spot + of clear ground extended round the foot of a proud-browed rock, from the + summit of which leaped a mountain stream in a fall of sixty feet, in which + it was dissolved into foam and dew. At the bottom of the fall the rivulet + with difficulty collected, like a routed general, its dispersed forces, + and, as if tamed by its descent, found a noiseless passage through the + heath to join the Awe. + </p> + <p> + I was much struck with the tree and waterfall, and wished myself nearer + them; not that I thought of sketch-book or portfolio—for in my + younger days misses were not accustomed to black-lead pencils, unless they + could use them to some good purpose—but merely to indulge myself + with a closer view. Donald immediately opened the chaise door, but + observed it was rough walking down the brae, and that I would see the tree + better by keeping the road for a hundred yards farther, when it passed + closer to the spot, for which he seemed, however, to have no predilection. + “He knew,” he said, “a far bigger tree than that nearer Bunawe, and it was + a place where there was flat ground for the carriage to stand, which it + could jimply do on these braes; but just as my leddyship liked.” + </p> + <p> + My ladyship did choose rather to look at the fine tree before me than to + pass it by in hopes of a finer; so we walked beside the carriage till we + should come to a point, from which, Donald assured us, we might, without + scrambling, go as near the tree as we chose, “though he wadna advise us to + go nearer than the highroad.” + </p> + <p> + There was something grave and mysterious in Donald’s sun-browned + countenance when he gave us this intimation, and his manner was so + different from his usual frankness, that my female curiosity was set in + motion. We walked on the whilst, and I found the tree, of which we had now + lost sight by the intervention of some rising ground, was really more + distant than I had at first supposed. “I could have sworn now,” said I to + my cicerone, “that yon tree and waterfall was the very place where you + intended to make a stop to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “The Lord forbid!” said Donald hastily. + </p> + <p> + “And for what, Donald? Why should you be willing to pass so pleasant a + spot?” + </p> + <p> + “It’s ower near Dalmally, my leddy, to corn the beasts; it would bring + their dinner ower near their breakfast, poor things. An’ besides, the + place is not canny.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! then the mystery is out. There is a bogle or a brownie, a witch or a + gyre-carlin, a bodach or a fairy, in the case?” + </p> + <p> + “The ne’er a bit, my leddy—ye are clean aff the road, as I may say. + But if your leddyship will just hae patience, and wait till we are by the + place and out of the glen, I’ll tell ye all about it. There is no much + luck in speaking of such things in the place they chanced in.” + </p> + <p> + I was obliged to suspend my curiosity, observing, that if I persisted in + twisting the discourse one way while Donald was twining it another, I + should make his objection, like a hempen cord, just so much the tougher. + At length the promised turn of the road brought us within fifty paces of + the tree which I desired to admire, and I now saw to my surprise, that + there was a human habitation among the cliffs which surrounded it. It was + a hut of the least dimensions, and most miserable description that I ever + saw even in the Highlands. The walls of sod, or DIVOT, as the Scotch call + it, were not four feet high; the roof was of turf, repaired with reeds and + sedges; the chimney was composed of clay, bound round by straw ropes; and + the whole walls, roof, and chimney, were alike covered with the vegetation + of house-leek, rye-grass, and moss common to decayed cottages formed of + such materials. There was not the slightest vestige of a kale-yard, the + usual accompaniment of the very worst huts; and of living things we saw + nothing, save a kid which was browsing on the roof of the hut, and a goat, + its mother, at some distance, feeding betwixt the oak and the river Awe. + </p> + <p> + “What man,” I could not help exclaiming, “can have committed sin deep + enough to deserve such a miserable dwelling!” + </p> + <p> + “Sin enough,” said Donald MacLeish, with a half-suppressed groan; “and God + he knoweth, misery enough too. And it is no man’s dwelling neither, but a + woman’s.” + </p> + <p> + “A woman’s!” I repeated, “and in so lonely a place! What sort of a woman + can she be?” + </p> + <p> + “Come this way, my leddy, and you may judge that for yourself,” said + Donald. And by advancing a few steps, and making a sharp turn to the left, + we gained a sight of the side of the great broad-breasted oak, in the + direction opposed to that in which we had hitherto seen it. + </p> + <p> + “If she keeps her old wont, she will be there at this hour of the day,” + said Donald; but immediately became silent, and pointed with his finger, + as one afraid of being overheard. I looked, and beheld, not without some + sense of awe, a female form seated by the stem of the oak, with her head + drooping, her hands clasped, and a dark-coloured mantle drawn over her + head, exactly as Judah is represented in the Syrian medals as seated under + her palm-tree. I was infected with the fear and reverence which my guide + seemed to entertain towards this solitary being, nor did I think of + advancing towards her to obtain a nearer view until I had cast an + enquiring look on Donald; to which he replied in a half whisper, “She has + been a fearfu’ bad woman, my leddy.” + </p> + <p> + “Mad woman, said you,” replied I, hearing him imperfectly; “then she is + perhaps dangerous?” + </p> + <p> + “No—she is not mad,” replied Donald; “for then it may be she would + be happier than she is; though when she thinks on what she has done, and + caused to be done, rather than yield up a hair-breadth of her ain wicked + will, it is not likely she can be very well settled. But she neither is + mad nor mischievous; and yet, my leddy, I think you had best not go nearer + to her.” And then, in a few hurried words, he made me acquainted with the + story which I am now to tell more in detail. I heard the narrative with a + mixture of horror and sympathy, which at once impelled me to approach the + sufferer, and speak to her the words of comfort, or rather of pity, and at + the same time made me afraid to do so. + </p> + <p> + This indeed was the feeling with which she was regarded by the Highlanders + in the neighbourhood, who looked upon Elspat MacTavish, or the Woman of + the Tree, as they called her, as the Greeks considered those who were + pursued by the Furies, and endured the mental torment consequent on great + criminal actions. They regarded such unhappy beings as Orestes and + OEdipus, as being less the voluntary perpetrators of their crimes than as + the passive instruments by which the terrible decrees of Destiny had been + accomplished; and the fear with which they beheld them was not unmingled + with veneration. + </p> + <p> + I also learned further from Donald MacLeish, that there was some + apprehension of ill luck attending those who had the boldness to approach + too near, or disturb the awful solitude of a being so unutterably + miserable—that it was supposed that whosoever approached her must + experience in some respect the contagion of her wretchedness. + </p> + <p> + It was therefore with some reluctance that Donald saw me prepare to obtain + a nearer view of the sufferer, and that he himself followed to assist me + in the descent down a very rough path. I believe his regard for me + conquered some ominous feelings in his own breast, which connected his + duty on this occasion with the presaging fear of lame horses, lost + linch-pins, overturns, and other perilous chances of the postilion’s life. + </p> + <p> + I am not sure if my own courage would have carried me so close to Elspat + had he not followed. There was in her countenance the stern abstraction of + hopeless and overpowering sorrow, mixed with the contending feelings of + remorse, and of the pride which struggled to conceal it. She guessed, + perhaps, that it was curiosity, arising out of her uncommon story, which + induced me to intrude on her solitude; and she could not be pleased that a + fate like hers had been the theme of a traveller’s amusement. Yet the look + with which she regarded me was one of scorn instead of embarrassment. The + opinion of the world and all its children could not add or take an iota + from her load of misery; and, save from the half smile that seemed to + intimate the contempt of a being rapt by the very intensity of her + affliction above the sphere of ordinary humanities, she seemed as + indifferent to my gaze, as if she had been a dead corpse or a marble + statue. + </p> + <p> + Elspat was above the middle stature. Her hair, now grizzled, was still + profuse, and it had been of the most decided black. So were her eyes, in + which, contradicting the stern and rigid features of her countenance, + there shone the wild and troubled light that indicates an unsettled mind. + Her hair was wrapt round a silver bodkin with some attention to neatness, + and her dark mantle was disposed around her with a degree of taste, though + the materials were of the most ordinary sort. + </p> + <p> + After gazing on this victim of guilt and calamity till I was ashamed to + remain silent, though uncertain how I ought to address her, I began to + express my surprise at her choosing such a desert and deplorable dwelling. + She cut short these expressions of sympathy, by answering in a stern + voice, without the least change of countenance or posture, “Daughter of + the stranger, he has told you my story.” I was silenced at once, and felt + how little all earthly accommodation must seem to the mind which had such + subjects as hers for rumination. Without again attempting to open the + conversation, I took a piece of gold from my purse, (for Donald had + intimated she lived on alms), expecting she would at least stretch her + hand to receive it. But she neither accepted nor rejected the gift; she + did not even seem to notice it, though twenty times as valuable, probably, + as was usually offered. I was obliged to place it on her knee, saying + involuntarily, as I did so, “May God pardon you and relieve you!” I shall + never forget the look which she cast up to Heaven, nor the tone in which + she exclaimed, in the very words of my old friend John Home,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “My beautiful—my brave!” + </pre> + <p> + It was the language of nature, and arose from the heart of the deprived + mother, as it did from that gifted imaginative poet while furnishing with + appropriate expressions the ideal grief of Lady Randolph. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Oh, I’m come to the Low Country, + Och, och, ohonochie, + Without a penny in my pouch + To buy a meal for me. + I was the proudest of my clan, + Long, long may I repine; + And Donald was the bravest man, + And Donald he was mine. OLD SONG. +</pre> + <p> + Elspat had enjoyed happy days, though her age had sunk into hopeless and + inconsolable sorrow and distress. She was once the beautiful and happy + wife of Hamish MacTavish, for whom his strength and feats of prowess had + gained the title of MacTavish Mhor. His life was turbulent and dangerous, + his habits being of the old Highland stamp which esteemed it shame to want + anything that could be had for the taking. Those in the Lowland line who + lay near him, and desired to enjoy their lives and property in quiet, were + contented to pay him a small composition, in name of protection money, and + comforted themselves with the old proverb that it was better to “fleech + the deil than fight him.” Others, who accounted such composition + dishonourable, were often surprised by MacTavish Mhor and his associates + and followers, who usually inflicted an adequate penalty, either in person + or property, or both. The creagh is yet remembered in which he swept one + hundred and fifty cows from Monteith in one drove; and how he placed the + laird of Ballybught naked in a slough, for having threatened to send for a + party of the Highland Watch to protect his property. + </p> + <p> + Whatever were occasionally the triumphs of this daring cateran, they were + often exchanged for reverses; and his narrow escapes, rapid flights, and + the ingenious stratagems with which he extricated himself from imminent + danger, were no less remembered and admired than the exploits in which he + had been successful. In weal or woe, through every species of fatigue, + difficulty, and danger, Elspat was his faithful companion. She enjoyed + with him the fits of occasional prosperity; and when adversity pressed + them hard, her strength of mind, readiness of wit, and courageous + endurance of danger and toil, are said often to have stimulated the + exertions of her husband. + </p> + <p> + Their morality was of the old Highland cast—faithful friends and + fierce enemies. The Lowland herds and harvests they accounted their own, + whenever they had the means of driving off the one or of seizing upon the + other; nor did the least scruple on the right of property interfere on + such occasions. Hamish Mhor argued like the old Cretan warrior: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “My sword, my spear, my shaggy shield, + They make me lord of all below; + For he who dreads the lance to wield, + Before my shaggy shield must bow. + His lands, his vineyards, must resign, + And all that cowards have is mine.” + </pre> + <p> + But those days of perilous, though frequently successful depredation, + began to be abridged after the failure of the expedition of Prince Charles + Edward. MacTavish Mhor had not sat still on that occasion, and he was + outlawed, both as a traitor to the state and as a robber and cateran. + Garrisons were now settled in many places where a red-coat had never + before been seen, and the Saxon war-drum resounded among the most hidden + recesses of the Highland mountains. The fate of MacTavish became every day + more inevitable; and it was the more difficult for him to make his + exertions for defence or escape, that Elspat, amid his evil days, had + increased his family with an infant child, which was a considerable + encumbrance upon the necessary rapidity of their motions. + </p> + <p> + At length the fatal day arrived. In a strong pass on the skirts of Ben + Crunchan, the celebrated MacTavish Mhor was surprised by a detachment of + the Sidier Roy. [The Red Soldier.] His wife assisted him heroically, + charging his piece from time to time; and as they were in possession of a + post that was nearly unassailable, he might have perhaps escaped if his + ammunition had lasted. But at length his balls were expended, although it + was not until he had fired off most of the silver buttons from his + waistcoat; and the soldiers, no longer deterred by fear of the unerring + marksman, who had slain three and wounded more of their number, approached + his stronghold, and, unable to take him alive, slew him after a most + desperate resistance. + </p> + <p> + All this Elspat witnessed and survived; for she had, in the child which + relied on her for support, a motive for strength and exertion. In what + manner she maintained herself it is not easy to say. Her only ostensible + means of support were a flock of three or four goats, which she fed + wherever she pleased on the mountain pastures, no one challenging the + intrusion. In the general distress of the country, her ancient + acquaintances had little to bestow; but what they could part with from + their own necessities, they willingly devoted to the relief of others, + From Lowlanders she sometimes demanded tribute, rather than requested + alms. She had not forgotten she was the widow of MacTavish Mhor, or that + the child who trotted by her knee might, such were her imaginations, + emulate one day the fame of his father, and command the same influence + which he had once exerted without control. She associated so little with + others, went so seldom and so unwillingly from the wildest recesses of the + mountains, where she usually dwelt with her goats, that she was quite + unconscious of the great change which had taken place in the country + around her—the substitution of civil order for military violence, + and the strength gained by the law and its adherents over those who were + called in Gaelic song, “the stormy sons of the sword.” Her own diminished + consequence and straitened circumstances she indeed felt, but for this the + death of MacTavish Mhor was, in her apprehension, a sufficing reason; and + she doubted not that she should rise to her former state of importance + when Hamish Bean (or fair-haired James) should be able to wield the arms + of his father. If, then, Elspat was repelled, rudely when she demanded + anything necessary for her wants, or the accommodation of her little + flock, by a churlish farmer, her threats of vengeance, obscurely + expressed, yet terrible in their tenor, used frequently to extort, through + fear of her maledictions, the relief which was denied to her necessities; + and the trembling goodwife, who gave meal or money to the widow of + MacTavish Mhor, wished in her heart that the stern old carlin had been + burnt on the day her husband had his due. + </p> + <p> + Years thus ran on, and Hamish Bean grew up—not, indeed, to be of his + father’s size or strength, but to become an active, high-spirited, + fair-haired youth, with a ruddy cheek, an eye like an eagle’s, and all the + agility, if not all the strength, of his formidable father, upon whose + history and achievements his mother dwelt, in order to form her son’s mind + to a similar course of adventures. But the young see the present state of + this changeful world more keenly than the old. Much attached to his + mother, and disposed to do all in his power for her support, Hamish yet + perceived, when he mixed with the world, that the trade of the cateran was + now alike dangerous and discreditable, and that if he were to emulate his + father’s progress, it must be in some other line of warfare more consonant + to the opinions of the present day. + </p> + <p> + As the faculties of mind and body began to expand, he became more sensible + of the precarious nature of his situation, of the erroneous views of his + mother, and her ignorance respecting the changes of the society with which + she mingled so little. In visiting friends and neighbours, he became aware + of the extremely reduced scale to which his parent was limited, and + learned that she possessed little or nothing more than the absolute + necessaries of life, and that these were sometimes on the point of + failing. At times his success in fishing and the chase was able to add + something to her subsistence; but he saw no regular means of contributing + to her support, unless by stooping to servile labour, which, if he himself + could have endured it, would, he knew, have been like a death’s-wound to + the pride of his mother. + </p> + <p> + Elspat, meanwhile, saw with surprise that Hamish Bean, although now tall + and fit for the field, showed no disposition to enter on his father’s + scene of action. There was something of the mother at her heart, which + prevented her from urging him in plain terms to take the field as a + cateran, for the fear occurred of the perils into which the trade must + conduct him; and when she would have spoken to him on the subject, it + seemed to her heated imagination as if the ghost of her husband arose + between them in his bloody tartans, and laying his finger on his lips, + appeared to prohibit the topic. Yet she wondered at what seemed his want + of spirit, sighed as she saw him from day to day lounging about in the + long-skirted Lowland coat which the legislature had imposed upon the Gael + instead of their own romantic garb, and thought how much nearer he would + have resembled her husband had he been clad in the belted plaid and short + hose, with his polished arms gleaming at his side. + </p> + <p> + Besides these subjects for anxiety, Elspat had others arising from the + engrossing impetuosity of her temper. Her love of MacTavish Mhor had been + qualified by respect and sometimes even by fear, for the cateran was not + the species of man who submits to female government; but over his son she + had exerted, at first during childhood, and afterwards in early youth, an + imperious authority, which gave her maternal love a character of jealousy. + She could not bear when Hamish, with advancing life, made repeated steps + towards independence, absented himself from her cottage at such season and + for such length of time as he chose, and seemed to consider, although + maintaining towards her every possible degree of respect and kindness, + that the control and responsibility of his actions rested on himself + alone. This would have been of little consequence, could she have + concealed her feelings within her own bosom; but the ardour and impatience + of her passions made her frequently show her son that she conceived + herself neglected and ill-used. When he was absent for any length of time + from her cottage without giving intimation of his purpose, her resentment + on his return used to be so unreasonable, that it naturally suggested to a + young man fond of independence, and desirous to amend his situation in the + world, to leave her, even for the very purpose of enabling him to provide + for the parent whose egotistical demands on his filial attention tended to + confine him to a desert, in which both were starving in hopeless and + helpless indigence. + </p> + <p> + Upon one occasion, the son having been guilty of some independent + excursion, by which the mother felt herself affronted and disobliged, she + had been more than usually violent on his return, and awakened in Hamish a + sense of displeasure, which clouded his brow and cheek. At length, as she + persevered in her unreasonable resentment, his patience became exhausted, + and taking his gun from the chimney corner, and muttering to himself the + reply which his respect for his mother prevented him from speaking aloud, + he was about to leave the hut which he had but barely entered. + </p> + <p> + “Hamish,” said his mother, “are you again about to leave me?” But Hamish + only replied by looking at and rubbing the lock of his gun. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, rub the lock of your gun,” said his parent bitterly. “I am glad you + have courage enough to fire it? though it be but at a roe-deer.” Hamish + started at this undeserved taunt, and cast a look of anger at her in + reply. She saw that she had found the means of giving him pain. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she said, “look fierce as you will at an old woman, and your + mother; it would be long ere you bent your brow on the angry countenance + of a bearded man.” + </p> + <p> + “Be silent, mother, or speak of what you understand,” said Hamish, much + irritated, “and that is of the distaff and the spindle.” + </p> + <p> + “And was it of spindle and distaff that I was thinking when I bore you + away on my back through the fire of six of the Saxon soldiers, and you a + wailing child? I tell you, Hamish, I know a hundredfold more of swords and + guns than ever you will; and you will never learn so much of noble war by + yourself, as you have seen when you were wrapped up in my plaid.” + </p> + <p> + “You are determined, at least, to allow me no peace at home, mother; but + this shall have an end,” said Hamish, as, resuming his purpose of leaving + the hut, he rose and went towards the door. + </p> + <p> + “Stay, I command you,” said his mother—“stay! or may the gun you + carry be the means of your ruin! may the road you are going be the track + of your funeral!” + </p> + <p> + “What makes you use such words, mother?” said the young man, turning a + little back; “they are not good, and good cannot come of them. Farewell + just now! we are too angry to speak together—farewell! It will be + long ere you see me again.” And he departed, his mother, in the first + burst of her impatience, showering after him her maledictions, and in the + next invoking them on her own head, so that they might spare her son’s. + She passed that day and the next in all the vehemence of impotent and yet + unrestrained passion, now entreating Heaven, and such powers as were + familiar to her by rude tradition, to restore her dear son, “the calf of + her heart;” now in impatient resentment, meditating with what bitter terms + she should rebuke his filial disobedience upon his return, and now + studying the most tender language to attach him to the cottage, which, + when her boy was present, she would not, in the rapture of her affection, + have exchanged for the apartments of Taymouth Castle. + </p> + <p> + Two days passed, during which, neglecting even the slender means of + supporting nature which her situation afforded, nothing but the strength + of a frame accustomed to hardships and privations of every kind could have + kept her in existence, notwithstanding the anguish of her mind prevented + her being sensible of her personal weakness. Her dwelling at this period + was the same cottage near which I had found her, but then more habitable + by the exertions of Hamish, by whom it had been in a great measure built + and repaired. + </p> + <p> + It was on the third day after her son had disappeared, as she sat at the + door rocking herself, after the fashion of her countrywomen when in + distress, or in pain, that the then unwonted circumstance occurred of a + passenger being seen on the highroad above the cottage. She cast but one + glance at him. He was on horseback, so that it could not be Hamish; and + Elspat cared not enough for any other being on earth to make her turn her + eyes towards him a second time. The stranger, however, paused opposite to + her cottage, and dismounting from his pony, led it down the steep and + broken path which conducted to her door. + </p> + <p> + “God bless you, Elspat MacTavish!” She looked at the man as he addressed + her in her native language, with the displeased air of one whose reverie + is interrupted; but the traveller went on to say, “I bring you tidings of + your son Hamish.” At once, from being the most uninteresting object, in + respect to Elspat, that could exist, the form of the stranger became awful + in her eyes, as that of a messenger descended from heaven, expressly to + pronounce upon her death or life. She started from her seat, and with + hands convulsively clasped together, and held up to Heaven, eyes fixed on + the stranger’s countenance, and person stooping forward to him, she looked + those inquiries which her faltering tongue could not articulate. “Your son + sends you his dutiful remembrance, and this,” said the messenger, putting + into Elspat’s hand a small purse containing four or five dollars. + </p> + <p> + “He is gone! he is gone!” exclaimed Elspat; “he has sold himself to be the + servant of the Saxons, and I shall never more behold him! Tell me, Miles + MacPhadraick—for now I know you—is it the price of the son’s + blood that you have put into the mother’s hand?” + </p> + <p> + “Now, God forbid!” answered MacPhadraick, who was a tacksman, and had + possession of a considerable tract of ground under his chief, a proprietor + who lived about twenty miles off—“God forbid I should do wrong, or + say wrong, to you, or to the son of MacTavish Mhor! I swear to you by the + hand of my chief that your son is well, and will soon see you; and the + rest he will tell you himself.” So saying, MacPhadraick hastened back up + the pathway, gained the road, mounted his pony, and rode upon his way. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + Elspat MacTavish remained gazing on the money as if the impress of the + coin could have conveyed information how it was procured. + </p> + <p> + “I love not this MacPhadraick,” she said to herself. “It was his race of + whom the Bard hath spoken, saying, Fear them not when their words are loud + as the winter’s wind, but fear them when they fall on you like the sound + of the thrush’s song. And yet this riddle can be read but one way: My son + hath taken the sword to win that, with strength like a man, which churls + would keep him from with the words that frighten children.” This idea, + when once it occurred to her, seemed the more reasonable, that + MacPhadraick, as she well knew, himself a cautious man, had so far + encouraged her husband’s practices as occasionally to buy cattle of + MacTavish, although he must have well known how they were come by, taking + care, however, that the transaction was so made as to be accompanied with + great profit and absolute safety. Who so likely as MacPhadraick to + indicate to a young cateran the glen in which he could commence his + perilous trade with most prospect of success? Who so likely to convert his + booty into money? The feelings which another might have experienced on + believing that an only son had rushed forward on the same path in which + his father had perished, were scarce known to the Highland mothers of that + day. She thought of the death of MacTavish Mhor as that of a hero who had + fallen in his proper trade of war, and who had not fallen unavenged. She + feared less for her son’s life than for his dishonour. She dreaded, on his + account, the subjection to strangers, and the death-sleep of the soul + which is brought on by what she regarded as slavery. + </p> + <p> + The moral principle which so naturally and so justly occurs to the mind of + those who have been educated under a settled government of laws that + protect the property of the weak against the incursions of the strong, was + to poor Elspat a book sealed and a fountain closed. She had been taught to + consider those whom they call Saxons as a race with whom the Gael were + constantly at war; and she regarded every settlement of theirs within the + reach of Highland incursion as affording a legitimate object of attack and + plunder. Her feelings on this point had been strengthened and confirmed, + not only by the desire of revenge for the death of her husband, but by the + sense of general indignation entertained, not unjustly, through the + Highlands of Scotland, on account of the barbarous and violent conduct of + the victors after the battle of Culloden. Other Highland clans, too, she + regarded as the fair objects of plunder, when that was possible, upon the + score of ancient enmities and deadly feuds. + </p> + <p> + The prudence that might have weighed the slender means which the times + afforded for resisting the efforts of a combined government, which had, in + its less compact and established authority, been unable to put down the + ravages of such lawless caterans as MacTavish Mhor, was unknown to a + solitary woman whose ideas still dwelt upon her own early times. She + imagined that her son had only to proclaim himself his father’s successor + in adventure and enterprise, and that a force of men, as gallant as those + who had followed his father’s banner, would crowd around to support it + when again displayed. To her Hamish was the eagle who had only to soar + aloft and resume his native place in the skies, without her being able to + comprehend how many additional eyes would have watched his flight—how + many additional bullets would have been directed at his bosom. To be + brief, Elspat was one who viewed the present state of society with the + same feelings with which she regarded the times that had passed away. She + had been indigent, neglected, oppressed since the days that her husband + had no longer been feared and powerful, and she thought that the term of + her ascendence would return when her son had determined to play the part + of his father. If she permitted her eye to glance farther into futurity, + it was but to anticipate that she must be for many a day cold in the + grave, with the coronach of her tribe cried duly over her, before her + fair-haired Hamish could, according to her calculation, die with his hand + on the basket-hilt of the red claymore. His father’s hair was grey, ere, + after a hundred dangers, he had fallen with his arms in his hands. That + she should have seen and survived the sight was a natural consequence of + the manners of that age. And better it was—such was her proud + thought—that she had seen him so die, than to have witnessed his + departure from life in a smoky hovel on a bed of rotten straw like an + over-worn hound, or a bullock which died of disease. But the hour of her + young, her brave Hamish, was yet far distant. He must succeed—he + must conquer—like his father. And when he fell at length—for + she anticipated for him no bloodless death—Elspat would ere then + have lain long in the grave, and could neither see his death-struggle nor + mourn over his grave-sod. + </p> + <p> + With such wild notions working in her brain, the spirit of Elspat rose to + its usual pitch, or, rather, to one which seemed higher. In the emphatic + language of Scripture, which in that idiom does not greatly differ from + her own, she arose, she washed and changed her apparel, and ate bread, and + was refreshed. + </p> + <p> + She longed eagerly for the return of her son, but she now longed not with + the bitter anxiety of doubt and apprehension. She said to herself that + much must be done ere he could in these times arise to be an eminent and + dreaded leader. Yet when she saw him again, she almost expected him at the + head of a daring band, with pipes playing and banners flying, the noble + tartans fluttering free in the wind, in despite of the laws which had + suppressed, under severe penalties, the use of the national garb and all + the appurtenances of Highland chivalry. For all this, her eager + imagination was content only to allow the interval of some days. + </p> + <p> + From the moment this opinion had taken deep and serious possession of her + mind, her thoughts were bent upon receiving her son at the head of his + adherents in the manner in which she used to adorn her hut for the return + of his father. + </p> + <p> + The substantial means of subsistence she had not the power of providing, + nor did she consider that of importance. The successful caterans would + bring with them herds and flocks. But the interior of her hut was arranged + for their reception, the usquebaugh was brewed or distilled in a larger + quantity than it could have been supposed one lone woman could have made + ready. Her hut was put into such order as might, in some degree, give it + the appearance of a day of rejoicing. It was swept and decorated, with + boughs of various kinds, like the house of a Jewess upon what is termed + the Feast of the Tabernacles. The produce of the milk of her little flock + was prepared in as great variety of forms as her skill admitted, to + entertain her son and his associates whom she, expected to receive along + with him. + </p> + <p> + But the principal decoration, which she sought with the greatest toil, was + the cloud-berry, a scarlet fruit, which is only found on very high hills; + and these only in small quantities. Her husband, or perhaps one of his + forefathers, had chosen this as the emblem of his family, because it + seemed at once to imply, by its scarcity, the smallness of their clan, + and, by the places in which it was found, the ambitious height of their + pretensions. + </p> + <p> + For the time that these simple preparations of welcome endured, Elspat was + in a state of troubled happiness. In fact, her only anxiety was that she + might be able to complete all that she could do to welcome Hamish and the + friends who she supposed must have attached themselves to his band, before + they should arrive and find her unprovided for their reception. + </p> + <p> + But when such efforts as she could make had been accomplished, she once + more had nothing left to engage her save the trifling care of her goats; + and when these had been attended to, she had only to review her little + preparations, renew such as were of a transitory nature, replace decayed + branches and fading boughs, and then to sit down at her cottage-door and + watch the road as it ascended on the one side from the banks of the Awe, + and on the other wound round the heights of the mountain, with such a + degree of accommodation to hill and level as the plan of the military + engineer permitted. While so occupied, her imagination, anticipating the + future from recollections of the past, formed out of the morning mist or + the evening cloud the wild forms of an advancing band, which were then + called “Sidier Dhu” (dark soldiers), dressed in their native tartan, and + so named to distinguish them from the scarlet ranks of the British army. + In this occupation she spent many hours of each morning and evening. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + It was in vain that Elspat’s eyes surveyed the distant path by the + earliest light of the dawn and the latest glimmer of the twilight. No + rising dust awakened the expectation of nodding plumes or flashing arms. + The solitary traveller trudged listlessly along in his brown lowland + greatcoat, his tartans dyed black or purple, to comply with or evade the + law which prohibited their being worn in their variegated hues. The spirit + of the Gael, sunk and broken by the severe though perhaps necessary laws, + that proscribed the dress and arms which he considered as his birthright, + was intimated by his drooping head and dejected appearance. Not in such + depressed wanderers did Elspat recognise the light and free step of her + son, now, as she concluded, regenerated from every sign of Saxon thraldom. + Night by night, as darkness came, she removed from her unclosed door, to + throw herself on her restless pallet, not to sleep, but to watch. The + brave and the terrible, she said, walk by night. Their steps are heard in + darkness, when all is silent save the whirlwind and the cataract. The + timid deer comes only forth when the sun is upon the mountain’s peak, but + the bold wolf walks in the red light of the harvest-moon. She reasoned in + vain; her son’s expected summons did not call her from the lowly couch + where she lay dreaming of his approach. Hamish came not. + </p> + <p> + “Hope deferred,” saith the royal sage, “maketh the heart sick;” and strong + as was Elspat’s constitution, she began to experience that it was unequal + to the toils to which her anxious and immoderate affection subjected her, + when early one morning the appearance of a traveller on the lonely + mountain-road, revived hopes which had begun to sink into listless + despair. There was no sign of Saxon subjugation about the stranger. At a + distance she could see the flutter of the belted-plaid that drooped in + graceful folds behind him, and the plume that, placed in the bonnet, + showed rank and gentle birth. He carried a gun over his shoulder, the + claymore was swinging by his side with its usual appendages, the dirk, the + pistol, and the SPORRAN MOLLACH. [The goat-skin pouch, worn by the + Highlanders round their waist.] Ere yet her eye had scanned all these + particulars, the light step of the traveller was hastened, his arm was + waved in token of recognition—a moment more, and Elspat held in her + arms her darling son, dressed in the garb of his ancestors, and looking, + in her maternal eyes, the fairest among ten thousand! + </p> + <p> + The first outpouring of affection it would be impossible to describe. + Blessings mingled with the most endearing epithets which her energetic + language affords in striving to express the wild rapture of Elspat’s joy. + Her board was heaped hastily with all she had to offer, and the mother + watched the young soldier, as he partook of the refreshment, with feelings + how similar to, yet how different from, those with which she had seen him + draw his first sustenance from her bosom! + </p> + <p> + When the tumult of joy was appeased, Elspat became anxious to know her + son’s adventures since they parted, and could not help greatly censuring + his rashness for traversing the hills in the Highland dress in the broad + sunshine, when the penalty was so heavy, and so many red soldiers were + abroad in the country. + </p> + <p> + “Fear not for me, mother,” said Hamish, in a tone designed to relieve her + anxiety, and yet somewhat embarrassed; “I may wear the BREACAN [That which + is variegated—that is, the tartan.] at the gate of Fort-Augustus, if + I like it.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, be not too daring, my beloved Hamish, though it be the fault which + best becomes thy father’s son—yet be not too daring! Alas! they + fight not now as in former days, with fair weapons and on equal terms, but + take odds of numbers and of arms, so that the feeble and the strong are + alike levelled by the shot of a boy. And do not think me unworthy to be + called your father’s widow and your mother because I speak thus; for God + knoweth, that, man to man, I would peril thee against the best in + Breadalbane, and broad Lorn besides.” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you, my dearest mother,” replied Hamish, “that I am in no + danger. But have you seen MacPhadraick, mother? and what has he said to + you on my account?” + </p> + <p> + “Silver he left me in plenty, Hamish; but the best of his comfort was that + you were well, and would see me soon. But beware of MacPhadraick, my son; + for when he called himself the friend of your father, he better loved the + most worthless stirk in his herd than he did the life-blood of MacTavish + Mhor. Use his services, therefore, and pay him for them, for it is thus we + should deal with the unworthy; but take my counsel, and trust him not.” + </p> + <p> + Hamish could not suppress a sigh, which seemed to Elspat to intimate that + the caution came too late. “What have you done with him?” she continued, + eager and alarmed. “I had money of him, and he gives not that without + value; he is none of those who exchange barley for chaff. Oh, if you + repent you of your bargain, and if it be one which you may break off + without disgrace to your truth or your manhood, take back his silver, and + trust not to his fair words.” + </p> + <p> + “It may not be, mother,” said Hamish; “I do not repent my engagement, + unless that it must make me leave you soon.” + </p> + <p> + “Leave me! how leave me? Silly boy, think you I know not what duty belongs + to the wife or mother of a daring man? Thou art but a boy yet; and when + thy father had been the dread of the country for twenty years, he did not + despise my company and assistance, but often said my help was worth that + of two strong gillies.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not on that score, mother, but since I must leave the country—” + </p> + <p> + “Leave the country!” replied his mother, interrupting him. “And think you + that I am like a bush, that is rooted to the soil where it grows, and must + die if carried elsewhere? I have breathed other winds than these of Ben + Cruachan. I have followed your father to the wilds of Ross and the + impenetrable deserts of Y Mac Y Mhor. Tush, man! my limbs, old as they + are, will bear me as far as your young feet can trace the way.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas, mother,” said the young man, with a faltering accent, “but to cross + the sea—” + </p> + <p> + “The sea! who am I that I should fear the sea? Have I never been in a + birling in my life—never known the Sound of Mull, the Isles of + Treshornish, and the rough rocks of Harris?” + </p> + <p> + “Alas, mother, I go far—far from all of these. I am enlisted in one + of the new regiments, and we go against the French in America.” + </p> + <p> + “Enlisted!” uttered the astonished mother—“against MY will—without + MY consent! You could not! you would not!” Then rising up, and assuming a + posture of almost imperial command, “Hamish, you DARED not!” + </p> + <p> + “Despair, mother, dares everything,” answered Hamish, in a tone of + melancholy resolution. “What should I do here, where I can scarce get + bread for myself and you, and when the times are growing daily worse? + Would you but sit down and listen, I would convince you I have acted for + the best.” + </p> + <p> + With a bitter smile Elspat sat down, and the same severe ironical + expression was on her features, as, with her lips firmly closed, she + listened to his vindication. + </p> + <p> + Hamish went on, without being disconcerted by her expected displeasure. + “When I left you, dearest mother, it was to go to MacPhadraick’s house; + for although I knew he is crafty and worldly, after the fashion of the + Sassenach, yet he is wise, and I thought how he would teach me, as it + would cost him nothing, in which way I could mend our estate in the + world.” + </p> + <p> + “Our estate in the world!” said Elspat, losing patience at the word; “and + went you to a base fellow with a soul no better than that of a cowherd, to + ask counsel about your conduct? Your father asked none, save of his + courage and his sword.” + </p> + <p> + “Dearest mother,” answered Hamish, “how shall I convince you that you live + in this land of our fathers as if our fathers were yet living? You walk as + it were in a dream, surrounded by the phantoms of those who have been long + with the dead. When my father lived and fought, the great respected the + man of the strong right hand, and the rich feared him. He had protection + from Macallum Mhor, and from Caberfae, and tribute from meaner men. + [Caberfae—ANGLICE, the Stag’s-head, the Celtic designation for the + arms of the family of the high Chief of Seaforth.] That is ended, and his + son would only earn a disgraceful and unpitied death by the practices + which gave his father credit and power among those who wear the breacan. + The land is conquered; its lights are quenched—Glengarry, Lochiel, + Perth, Lord Lewis, all the high chiefs are dead or in exile. We may mourn + for it, but we cannot help it. Bonnet, broadsword, and sporran—power, + strength, and wealth, were all lost on Drummossie Muir.” + </p> + <p> + “It is false!” said Elspat, fiercely; “you and such like dastardly spirits + are quelled by your own faint hearts, not by the strength of the enemy; + you are like the fearful waterfowl, to whom the least cloud in the sky + seems the shadow of the eagle.” + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” said Hamish proudly, “lay not faint heart to my charge. I go + where men are wanted who have strong arms and bold hearts too. I leave a + desert, for a land where I may gather fame.” + </p> + <p> + “And you leave your mother to perish in want, age, and solitude,” said + Elspat, essaying successively every means of moving a resolution which she + began to see was more deeply rooted than she had at first thought. + </p> + <p> + “Not so, neither,” he answered; “I leave you to comfort and certainty, + which you have yet never known. Barcaldine’s son is made a leader, and + with him I have enrolled myself. MacPhadraick acts for him, and raises + men, and finds his own in doing it.” + </p> + <p> + “That is the truest word of the tale, were all the rest as false as hell,” + said the old woman, bitterly. + </p> + <p> + “But we are to find our good in it also,” continued Hamish; “for + Barcaldine is to give you a shieling in his wood of Letter-findreight, + with grass for your goats, and a cow, when you please to have one, on the + common; and my own pay, dearest mother, though I am far away, will do more + than provide you with meal, and with all else you can want. Do not fear + for me. I enter a private gentleman; but I will return, if hard fighting + and regular duty can deserve it, an officer, and with half a dollar a + day.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor child!” replied Elspat, in a tone of pity mingled with contempt, + “and you trust MacPhadraick?” + </p> + <p> + “I might mother,” said Hamish, the dark red colour of his race crossing + his forehead and cheeks, “for MacPhadraick knows the blood which flows in + my veins, and is aware, that should he break trust with you, he might + count the days which could bring Hamish back to Breadalbane, and number + those of his life within three suns more. I would kill him at his own + hearth, did he break his word with me—I would, by the great Being + who made us both!” + </p> + <p> + The look and attitude of the young soldier for a moment overawed Elspat; + she was unused to see him express a deep and bitter mood, which reminded + her so strongly of his father. But she resumed her remonstrances in the + same taunting manner in which she had commenced them. + </p> + <p> + “Poor boy!” she said; “and you think that at the distance of half the + world your threats will be heard or thought of! But, go—go—place + your neck under him of Hanover’s yoke, against whom every true Gael fought + to the death. Go, disown the royal Stewart, for whom your father, and his + fathers, and your mother’s fathers, have crimsoned many a field with their + blood. Go, put your head under the belt of one of the race of Dermid, + whose children murdered—Yes,” she added, with a wild shriek, + “murdered your mother’s fathers in their peaceful dwellings in Glencoe! + Yes,” she again exclaimed, with a wilder and shriller scream, “I was then + unborn, but my mother has told me—and I attended to the voice of MY + mother—well I remember her words! They came in peace, and were + received in friendship—and blood and fire arose, and screams and + murder!” [See Note 9.—Massacre of Glencoe.] + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” answered Hamish, mournfully, but with a decided tone, “all that + I have thought over. There is not a drop of the blood of Glencoe on the + noble hand of Barcaldine; with the unhappy house of Glenlyon the curse + remains, and on them God hath avenged it.” + </p> + <p> + “You speak like the Saxon priest already,” replied his mother; “will you + not better stay, and ask a kirk from Macallum Mhor, that you may preach + forgiveness to the race of Dermid?” + </p> + <p> + “Yesterday was yesterday,” answered Hamish, “and to-day is to-day. When + the clans are crushed and confounded together, it is well and wise that + their hatreds and their feuds should not survive their independence and + their power. He that cannot execute vengeance like a man, should not + harbour useless enmity like a craven. Mother, young Barcaldine is true and + brave. I know that MacPhadraick counselled him that he should not let me + take leave of you, lest you dissuaded me from my purpose; but he said, + ‘Hamish MacTavish is the son of a brave man, and he will not break his + word.’ Mother, Barcaldine leads an hundred of the bravest of the sons of + the Gael in their native dress, and with their fathers’ arms—heart + to heart—shoulder to shoulder. I have sworn to go with him. He has + trusted me, and I will trust him.” + </p> + <p> + At this reply, so firmly and resolvedly pronounced, Elspat remained like + one thunderstruck, and sunk in despair. The arguments which she had + considered so irresistibly conclusive, had recoiled like a wave from a + rock. After a long pause, she filled her son’s quaigh, and presented it to + him with an air of dejected deference and submission. + </p> + <p> + “Drink,” she said, “to thy father’s roof-tree, ere you leave it for ever; + and tell me—since the chains of a new King, and of a new chief, whom + your fathers knew not save as mortal enemies, are fastened upon the limbs + of your father’s son—tell me how many links you count upon them?” + </p> + <p> + Hamish took the cup, but looked at her as if uncertain of her meaning. She + proceeded in a raised voice. “Tell me,” she said, “for I have a right to + know, for how many days the will of those you have made your masters + permits me to look upon you? In other words, how many are the days of my + life? for when you leave me, the earth has nought besides worth living + for!” + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” replied Hamish MacTavish, “for six days I may remain with you; + and if you will set out with me on the fifth, I will conduct you in safety + to your new dwelling. But if you remain here, then I will depart on the + seventh by daybreak—then, as at the last moment, I MUST set out for + Dunbarton, for if I appear not on the eighth day, I am subject to + punishment as a deserter, and am dishonoured as a soldier and a + gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + “Your father’s foot,” she answered, “was free as the wind on the heath—it + were as vain to say to him, where goest thou? as to ask that viewless + driver of the clouds, wherefore blowest thou? Tell me under what penalty + thou must—since go thou must, and go thou wilt—return to thy + thraldom?” + </p> + <p> + “Call it not thraldom, mother; it is the service of an honourable soldier—the + only service which is now open to the son of MacTavish Mhor.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet say what is the penalty if thou shouldst not return?” replied Elspat. + </p> + <p> + “Military punishment as a deserter,” answered Hamish, writhing, however, + as his mother failed not to observe, under some internal feelings, which + she resolved to probe to the uttermost. + </p> + <p> + “And that,” she said, with assumed calmness, which her glancing eye + disowned, “is the punishment of a disobedient hound, is it not?” + </p> + <p> + “Ask me no more, mother,” said Hamish; “the punishment is nothing to one + who will never deserve it.” + </p> + <p> + “To me it is something,” replied Elspat, “since I know better than thou, + that where there is power to inflict, there is often the will to do so + without cause. I would pray for thee, Hamish, and I must know against what + evils I should beseech Him who leaves none unguarded, to protect thy youth + and simplicity.” + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” said Hamish, “it signifies little to what a criminal may be + exposed, if a man is determined not to be such. Our Highland chiefs used + also to punish their vassals, and, as I have heard, severely. Was it not + Lachlan MacIan, whom we remember of old, whose head was struck off by + order of his chieftain for shooting at the stag before him?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” said Elspat, “and right he had to lose it, since he dishonoured the + father of the people even in the face of the assembled clan. But the + chiefs were noble in their ire; they punished with the sharp blade, and + not with the baton. Their punishments drew blood, but they did not infer + dishonour. Canst thou say, the same for the laws under whose yoke thou + hast placed thy freeborn neck?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot, mother—I cannot,” said Hamish mournfully. “I saw them + punish a Sassenach for deserting as they called it, his banner. He was + scourged—I own it—scourged like a hound who has offended an + imperious master. I was sick at the sight—I confess it. But the + punishment of dogs is only for those worse than dogs, who know not how to + keep their faith.” + </p> + <p> + “To this infamy, however, thou hast subjected thyself, Hamish,” replied + Elspat, “if thou shouldst give, or thy officers take, measure of offence + against thee. I speak no more to thee on thy purpose. Were the sixth day + from this morning’s sun my dying day, and thou wert to stay to close mine + eyes, thou wouldst run the risk of being lashed like a dog at a post—yes! + unless thou hadst the gallant heart to leave me to die alone, and upon my + desolate hearth, the last spark of thy father’s fire, and of thy forsaken + mother’s life, to be extinguished together!”—Hamish traversed the + hut with an impatient and angry pace. + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” he said at length, “concern not yourself about such things. I + cannot be subjected to such infamy, for never will I deserve it; and were + I threatened with it, I should know how to die before I was so far + dishonoured.” + </p> + <p> + “There spoke the son of the husband of my heart!” replied Elspat, and she + changed the discourse, and seemed to listen in melancholy acquiescence, + when her son reminded her how short the time was which they were permitted + to pass in each other’s society, and entreated that it might be spent + without useless and unpleasant recollections respecting the circumstances + under which they must soon be separated. + </p> + <p> + Elspat was now satisfied that her son, with some of his father’s other + properties, preserved the haughty masculine spirit which rendered it + impossible to divert him from a resolution which he had deliberately + adopted. She assumed, therefore, an exterior of apparent submission to + their inevitable separation; and if she now and then broke out into + complaints and murmurs, it was either that she could not altogether + suppress the natural impetuosity of her temper, or because she had the wit + to consider that a total and unreserved acquiescence might have seemed to + her son constrained and suspicious, and induced him to watch and defeat + the means by which she still hoped to prevent his leaving her. Her ardent + though selfish affection for her son, incapable of being qualified by a + regard for the true interests of the unfortunate object of her attachment, + resembled the instinctive fondness of the animal race for their offspring; + and diving little farther into futurity than one of the inferior + creatures, she only felt that to be separated from Hamish was to die. + </p> + <p> + In the brief interval permitted them, Elspat exhausted every art which + affection could devise, to render agreeable to him the space which they + were apparently to spend with each other. Her memory carried her far back + into former days, and her stores of legendary history, which furnish at + all times a principal amusement of the Highlander in his moments of + repose, were augmented by an unusual acquaintance with the songs of + ancient bards, and traditions of the most approved seannachies and tellers + of tales. Her officious attentions to her son’s accommodation, indeed, + were so unremitted as almost to give him pain, and he endeavoured quietly + to prevent her from taking so much personal toil in selecting the blooming + heath for his bed, or preparing the meal for his refreshment. “Let me + alone, Hamish,” she would reply on such occasions; “you follow your own + will in departing from your mother, let your mother have hers in doing + what gives her pleasure while you remain.” + </p> + <p> + So much she seemed to be reconciled to the arrangements which he had made + in her behalf, that she could hear him speak to her of her removing to the + lands of Green Colin, as the gentleman was called, on whose estate he had + provided her an asylum. In truth, however, nothing could be farther from + her thoughts. From what he had said during their first violent dispute, + Elspat had gathered that, if Hamish returned not by the appointed time + permitted by his furlough, he would incur the hazard of corporal + punishment. Were he placed within the risk of being thus dishonoured, she + was well aware that he would never submit to the disgrace by a return to + the regiment where it might be inflicted. Whether she looked to any + farther probable consequences of her unhappy scheme cannot be known; but + the partner of MacTavish Mhor, in all his perils and wanderings, was + familiar with an hundred instances of resistance or escape, by which one + brave man, amidst a land of rocks, lakes, and mountains, dangerous passes, + and dark forests, might baffle the pursuit of hundreds. For the future, + therefore, she feared nothing; her sole engrossing object was to prevent + her son from keeping his word with his commanding officer. + </p> + <p> + With this secret purpose, she evaded the proposal which Hamish repeatedly + made, that they should set out together to take possession of her new + abode; and she resisted it upon grounds apparently so natural to her + character that her son was neither alarmed nor displeased. “Let me not,” + she said, “in the same short week, bid farewell to my only son, and to the + glen in which I have so long dwelt. Let my eye, when dimmed with weeping + for thee, still look around, for a while at least, upon Loch Awe and on + Ben Cruachan.” + </p> + <p> + Hamish yielded the more willingly to his mother’s humour in this + particular, that one or two persons who resided in a neighbouring glen, + and had given their sons to Barcaldine’s levy, were also to be provided + for on the estate of the chieftain, and it was apparently settled that + Elspat was to take her journey along with them when they should remove to + their new residence. Thus, Hamish believed that he had at once indulged + his mother’s humour, and ensured her safety and accommodation. But she + nourished in her mind very different thoughts and projects. + </p> + <p> + The period of Hamish’s leave of absence was fast approaching, and more + than once he proposed to depart, in such time as to ensure his gaining + easily and early Dunbarton, the town where were the head-quarters of his + regiment. But still his mother’s entreaties, his own natural disposition + to linger among scenes long dear to him, and, above all, his firm reliance + in his speed and activity, induced him to protract his departure till the + sixth day, being the very last which he could possibly afford to spend + with his mother, if indeed he meant to comply with the conditions of his + furlough. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + But for your son, believe it—oh, believe it— + Most dangerously you have with him prevailed, + If not most mortal to him. CORIOLANUS. +</pre> + <p> + On the evening which preceded his proposed departure, Hamish walked down + to the river with his fishing-rod, to practise in the Awe, for the last + time, a sport in which he excelled, and to find, at the same time, the + means for making one social meal with his mother on something better than + their ordinary cheer. He was as successful as usual, and soon killed a + fine salmon. On his return homeward an incident befell him, which he + afterwards related as ominous, though probably his heated imagination, + joined to the universal turn of his countrymen for the marvellous, + exaggerated into superstitious importance some very ordinary and + accidental circumstance. + </p> + <p> + In the path which he pursued homeward, he was surprised to observe a + person, who, like himself, was dressed and armed after the old Highland + fashion. The first idea that struck him was, that the passenger belonged + to his own corps, who, levied by government, and bearing arms under royal + authority, were not amenable for breach of the statutes against the use of + the Highland garb or weapons. But he was struck on perceiving, as he + mended his pace to make up to his supposed comrade, meaning to request his + company for the next day’s journey, that the stranger wore a white + cockade, the fatal badge which was proscribed in the Highlands. The + stature of the man was tall, and there was something shadowy in the + outline, which added to his size; and his mode of motion, which rather + resembled gliding than walking, impressed Hamish with superstitious fears + concerning the character of the being which thus passed before him in the + twilight. He no longer strove to make up to the stranger, but contented + himself with keeping him in view, under the superstition common to the + Highlanders, that you ought neither to intrude yourself on such + supernatural apparitions as you may witness, nor avoid their presence, but + leave it to themselves to withhold or extend their communication, as their + power may permit, or the purpose of their commission require. + </p> + <p> + Upon an elevated knoll by the side of the road, just where the pathway + turned down to Elspat’s hut, the stranger made a pause, and seemed to + await Hamish’s coming up. Hamish, on his part, seeing it was necessary he + should pass the object of his suspicion, mustered up his courage, and + approached the spot where the stranger had placed himself; who first + pointed to Elspat’s hut, and made, with arm and head, a gesture + prohibiting Hamish to approach it, then stretched his hand to the road + which led to the southward, with a motion which seemed to enjoin his + instant departure in that direction. In a moment afterwards the plaided + form was gone—Hamish did not exactly say vanished, because there + were rocks and stunted trees enough to have concealed him; but it was his + own opinion that he had seen the spirit of MacTavish Mhor, warning him to + commence his instant journey to Dunbarton, without waiting till morning, + or again visiting his mother’s hut. + </p> + <p> + In fact, so many accidents might arise to delay his journey, especially + where there were many ferries, that it became his settled purpose, though + he could not depart without bidding his mother adieu, that he neither + could nor would abide longer than for that object; and that the first + glimpse of next day’s sun should see him many miles advanced towards + Dunbarton. He descended the path, therefore, and entering the cottage, he + communicated, in a hasty and troubled voice, which indicated mental + agitation, his determination to take his instant departure. Somewhat to + his surprise, Elspat appeared not to combat his purpose, but she urged him + to take some refreshment ere he left her for ever. He did so hastily, and + in silence, thinking on the approaching separation, and scarce yet + believing it would take place without a final struggle with his mother’s + fondness. To his surprise, she filled the quaigh with liquor for his + parting cup. + </p> + <p> + “Go,” she said, “my son, since such is thy settled purpose; but first + stand once more on thy mother’s hearth, the flame on which will be + extinguished long ere thy foot shall again be placed there.” + </p> + <p> + “To your health, mother!” said Hamish; “and may we meet again in + happiness, in spite of your ominous words.” + </p> + <p> + “It were better not to part,” said his mother, watching him as he quaffed + the liquor, of which he would have held it ominous to have left a drop. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” she said, muttering the words to herself, “go—if thou + canst go.” + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” said Hamish, as he replaced on the table the empty quaigh, “thy + drink is pleasant to the taste, but it takes away the strength which it + ought to give.” + </p> + <p> + “Such is its first effect, my son,” replied Elspat. “But lie down upon + that soft heather couch, shut your eyes but for a moment, and, in the + sleep of an hour, you shall have more refreshment than in the ordinary + repose of three whole nights, could they be blended into one.” + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” said Hamish, upon whose brain the potion was now taking rapid + effect, “give me my bonnet—I must kiss you and begone—yet it + seems as if my feet were nailed to the floor.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed,” said his mother, “you will be instantly well, if you will sit + down for half an hour—but half an hour. It is eight hours to dawn, + and dawn were time enough for your father’s son to begin such a journey.” + </p> + <p> + “I must obey you, mother—I feel I must,” said Hamish inarticulately; + “but call me when the moon rises.” + </p> + <p> + He sat down on the bed, reclined back, and almost instantly was fast + asleep. With the throbbing glee of one who has brought to an end a + difficult and troublesome enterprise, Elspat proceeded tenderly to arrange + the plaid of the unconscious slumberer, to whom her extravagant affection + was doomed to be so fatal, expressing, while busied in her office, her + delight, in tones of mingled tenderness and triumph. “Yes,” she said, + “calf of my heart, the moon shall arise and set to thee, and so shall the + sun; but not to light thee from the land of thy fathers, or tempt thee to + serve the foreign prince or the feudal enemy! To no son of Dermid shall I + be delivered, to be fed like a bondswoman; but he who is my pleasure and + my pride shall be my guard and my protector. They say the Highlands are + changed; but I see Ben Cruachan rear his crest as high as ever into the + evening sky; no one hath yet herded his kine on the depths of Loch Awe; + and yonder oak does not yet bend like a willow. The children of the + mountains will be such as their fathers, until the mountains themselves + shall be levelled with the strath. In these wild forests, which used to + support thousands of the brave, there is still surely subsistence and + refuge left for one aged woman, and one gallant youth of the ancient race + and the ancient manners.” + </p> + <p> + While the misjudging mother thus exulted in the success of her stratagem, + we may mention to the reader that it was founded on the acquaintance with + drugs and simples which Elspat, accomplished in all things belonging to + the wild life which she had led, possessed in an uncommon degree, and + which she exercised for various purposes. With the herbs, which she knew + how to select as well as how to distil, she could relieve more diseases + than a regular medical person could easily believe. She applied some to + dye the bright colours of the tartan; from others she compounded draughts + of various powers, and unhappily possessed the secret of one which was + strongly soporific. Upon the effects of this last concoction, as the + reader doubtless has anticipated, she reckoned with security on delaying + Hamish beyond the period for which his return was appointed; and she + trusted to his horror for the apprehended punishment to which he was thus + rendered liable, to prevent him from returning at all. + </p> + <p> + Sound and deep, beyond natural rest, was the sleep of Hamish MacTavish on + that eventful evening, but not such the repose of his mother. Scarce did + she close her eyes from time to time, but she awakened again with a start, + in the terror that her son had arisen and departed; and it was only on + approaching his couch, and hearing his deep-drawn and regular breathing, + that she reassured herself of the security of the repose in which he was + plunged. + </p> + <p> + Still, dawning, she feared, might awaken him, notwithstanding the unusual + strength of the potion with which she had drugged his cup. If there + remained a hope of mortal man accomplishing the journey, she was aware + that Hamish would attempt it, though he were to die from fatigue upon the + road. Animated by this new fear, she studied to exclude the light, by + stopping all the crannies and crevices through which, rather than through + any regular entrance, the morning beams might find access to her miserable + dwelling; and this in order to detain amid its wants and wretchedness the + being on whom, if the world itself had been at her disposal, she would + have joyfully conferred it. + </p> + <p> + Her pains were bestowed unnecessarily. The sun rose high above the + heavens, and not the fleetest stag in Breadalbane, were the hounds at his + heels, could have sped, to save his life, so fast as would have been + necessary to keep Hamish’s appointment. Her purpose was fully attained—her + son’s return within the period assigned was impossible. She deemed it + equally impossible, that he would ever dream of returning, standing, as he + must now do, in the danger of an infamous punishment. By degrees, and at + different times, she had gained from him a full acquaintance with the + predicament in which he would be placed by failing to appear on the day + appointed, and the very small hope he could entertain of being treated + with lenity. + </p> + <p> + It is well known, that the great and wise Earl of Chatham prided himself + on the scheme, by which he drew together for the defence of the colonies + those hardy Highlanders, who, until his time, had been the objects of + doubt, fear, and suspicion, on the part of each successive administration. + But some obstacles occurred, from the peculiar habits and temper of this + people, to the execution of his patriotic project. By nature and habit, + every Highlander was accustomed to the use of arms, but at the same time + totally unaccustomed to, and impatient of, the restraints imposed by + discipline upon regular troops. They were a species of militia, who had no + conception of a camp as their only home. If a battle was lost, they + dispersed to save themselves, and look out for the safety of their + families; if won, they went back to their glens to hoard up their booty, + and attend to their cattle and their farms. This privilege of going and + coming at pleasure, they would not be deprived of even by their chiefs, + whose authority was in most other respects so despotic. It followed as a + matter of course, that the new-levied Highland recruits could scarce be + made to comprehend the nature of a military engagement, which compelled a + man to serve in the army longer than he pleased; and perhaps, in many + instances, sufficient care was not taken at enlisting to explain to them + the permanency of the engagement which they came under, lest such a + disclosure should induce them to change their mind. Desertions were + therefore become numerous from the newly-raised regiment, and the veteran + general who commanded at Dunbarton saw no better way of checking them than + by causing an unusually severe example to be made of a deserter from an + English corps. The young Highland regiment was obliged to attend upon the + punishment, which struck a people, peculiarly jealous of personal honour, + with equal horror and disgust, and not unnaturally indisposed some of them + to the service. The old general, however, who had been regularly bred in + the German wars, stuck to his own opinion, and gave out in orders that the + first Highlander who might either desert, or fail to appear at the expiry + of his furlough, should be brought to the halberds, and punished like the + culprit whom they had seen in that condition. No man doubted that General + — would keep his word rigorously whenever severity was required, and + Elspat, therefore, knew that her son, when he perceived that due + compliance with his orders was impossible, must at the same time consider + the degrading punishment denounced against his defection as inevitable, + should he place himself within the general’s power. [See Note 10.—Fidelity + of the Highlanders.] + </p> + <p> + When noon was well passed, new apprehensions came on the mind of the + lonely woman. Her son still slept under the influence of the draught; but + what if, being stronger than she had ever known it administered, his + health or his reason should be affected by its potency? For the first + time, likewise, notwithstanding her high ideas on the subject of parental + authority, she began to dread the resentment of her son, whom her heart + told her she had wronged. Of late, she had observed that his temper was + less docile, and his determinations, especially upon this late occasion of + his enlistment, independently formed, and then boldly carried through. She + remembered the stern wilfulness of his father when he accounted himself + ill-used, and began to dread that Hamish, upon finding the deceit she had + put upon him, might resent it even to the extent of cutting her off, and + pursuing his own course through the world alone. Such were the alarming + and yet the reasonable apprehensions which began to crowd upon the + unfortunate woman, after the apparent success of her ill-advised + stratagem. + </p> + <p> + It was near evening when Hamish first awoke, and then he was far from + being in the full possession either of his mental or bodily powers. From + his vague expressions and disordered pulse, Elspat at first experienced + much apprehension; but she used such expedients as her medical knowledge + suggested, and in the course of the night she had the satisfaction to see + him sink once more into a deep sleep, which probably carried off the + greater part of the effects of the drug, for about sunrising she heard him + arise, and call to her for his bonnet. This she had purposely removed, + from a fear that he might awaken and depart in the night-time, without her + knowledge. + </p> + <p> + “My bonnet—my bonnet,” cried Hamish; “it is time to take farewell. + Mother, your drink was too strong—the sun is up—but with the + next morning I will still see the double summit of the ancient Dun. My + bonnet—my bonnet, mother; I must be instant in my departure.” These + expressions made it plain that poor Hamish was unconscious that two nights + and a day had passed since he had drained the fatal quaigh, and Elspat had + now to venture on what she felt as the almost perilous, as well as + painful, task of explaining her machinations. + </p> + <p> + “Forgive me, my son,” she said, approaching Hamish, and taking him by the + hand with an air of deferential awe, which perhaps she had not always used + to his father, even when in his moody fits. + </p> + <p> + “Forgive you, mother!—for what?” said Hamish, laughing; “for giving + me a dram that was too strong, and which my head still feels this morning, + or for hiding my bonnet to keep me an instant longer? Nay, do YOU forgive + ME. Give me the bonnet, and let that be done which now must be done. Give + me my bonnet, or I go without it; surely I am not to be delayed by so + trifling a want as that—I, who have gone for years with only a strap + of deer’s hide to tie back my hair. Trifle not, but give it me, or I must + go bareheaded, since to stay is impossible.” + </p> + <p> + “My son,” said Elspat, keeping fast hold of his hand, “what is done cannot + be recalled. Could you borrow the wings of yonder eagle, you would arrive + at the Dun too late for what you purpose—too soon for what awaits + you there. You believe you see the sun rising for the first time since you + have seen him set; but yesterday beheld him climb Ben Cruachan, though + your eyes were closed to his light.” + </p> + <p> + Hamish cast upon his mother a wild glance of extreme terror, then + instantly recovering himself, said, “I am no child to be cheated out of my + purpose by such tricks as these. Farewell, mother! each moment is worth a + lifetime.” + </p> + <p> + “Stay,” she said, “my dear, my deceived son, run not on infamy and ruin. + Yonder I see the priest upon the high-road on his white horse. Ask him the + day of the month and week; let him decide between us.” + </p> + <p> + With the speed of an eagle, Hamish darted up the acclivity, and stood by + the minister of Glenorquhy, who was pacing out thus early to administer + consolation to a distressed family near Bunawe. + </p> + <p> + The good man was somewhat startled to behold an armed Highlander, then so + unusual a sight, and apparently much agitated, stop his horse by the + bridle, and ask him with a faltering voice the day of the week and month. + “Had you been where you should have been yesterday, young man,” replied + the clergyman, “you would have known that it was God’s Sabbath; and that + this is Monday, the second day of the week, and twenty-first of the + month.” + </p> + <p> + “And this is true?” said Hamish. + </p> + <p> + “As true,” answered the surprised minister, “as that I yesterday preached + the word of God to this parish. What ails you, young man?—are you + sick?—are you in your right mind?” + </p> + <p> + Hamish made no answer, only repeated to himself the first expression of + the clergyman, “Had you been where you should have been yesterday;” and so + saying, he let go the bridle, turned from the road, and descended the path + towards the hut, with the look and pace of one who was going to execution. + The minister looked after him with surprise; but although he knew the + inhabitant of the hovel, the character of Elspat had not invited him to + open any communication with her, because she was generally reputed a + Papist, or rather one indifferent to all religion, except some + superstitious observances which had been handed down from her parents. On + Hamish the Reverend Mr. Tyrie had bestowed instructions when he was + occasionally thrown in his way; and if the seed fell among the brambles + and thorns of a wild and uncultivated disposition, it had not yet been + entirely checked or destroyed. There was something so ghastly in the + present expression of the youth’s features that the good man was tempted + to go down to the hovel, and inquire whether any distress had befallen the + inhabitants, in which his presence might be consoling and his ministry + useful. Unhappily he did not persevere in this resolution, which might + have saved a great misfortune, as he would have probably become a mediator + for the unfortunate young man; but a recollection of the wild moods of + such Highlanders as had been educated after the old fashion of the + country, prevented his interesting himself in the widow and son of the + far-dreaded robber, MacTavish Mhor, and he thus missed an opportunity, + which he afterwards sorely repented, of doing much good. + </p> + <p> + When Hamish MacTavish entered his mother’s hut, it was only to throw + himself on the bed he had left, and exclaiming, “Undone, undone!” to give + vent, in cries of grief and anger, to his deep sense of the deceit which + had been practised on him, and of the cruel predicament to which he was + reduced. + </p> + <p> + Elspat was prepared for the first explosion of her son’s passion, and said + to herself, “It is but the mountain torrent, swelled by the thunder + shower. Let us sit and rest us by the bank; for all its present tumult, + the time will soon come when we may pass it dryshod.” She suffered his + complaints and his reproaches, which were, even in the midst of his agony, + respectful and affectionate, to die away without returning any answer; and + when, at length, having exhausted all the exclamations of sorrow which his + language, copious in expressing the feelings of the heart, affords to the + sufferer, he sunk into a gloomy silence, she suffered the interval to + continue near an hour ere she approached her son’s couch. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” she said at length, with a voice in which the authority of the + mother was qualified by her tenderness, “have you exhausted your idle + sorrows, and are you able to place what you have gained against what you + have lost? Is the false son of Dermid your brother, or the father of your + tribe, that you weep because you cannot bind yourself to his belt, and + become one of those who must do his bidding? Could you find in yonder + distant country the lakes and the mountains that you leave behind you + here? Can you hunt the deer of Breadalbane in the forests of America, or + will the ocean afford you the silver-scaled salmon of the Awe? Consider, + then, what is your loss, and, like a wise man, set it against what you + have won.” + </p> + <p> + “I have lost all, mother,” replied Hamish, “since I have broken my word, + and lost my honour. I might tell my tale, but who, oh, who would believe + me?” The unfortunate young man again clasped his hands together, and, + pressing them to his forehead, hid his face upon the bed. + </p> + <p> + Elspat was now really alarmed, and perhaps wished the fatal deceit had + been left unattempted. She had no hope or refuge saving in the eloquence + of persuasion, of which she possessed no small share, though her total + ignorance of the world as it actually existed rendered its energy + unavailing. She urged her son, by every tender epithet which a parent + could bestow, to take care for his own safety. + </p> + <p> + “Leave me,” she said, “to baffle your pursuers. I will save your life—I + will save your honour. I will tell them that my fair-haired Hamish fell + from the Corrie Dhu (black precipice) into the gulf, of which human eye + never beheld the bottom. I will tell them this, and I will fling your + plaid on the thorns which grow on the brink of the precipice, that they + may believe my words. They will believe, and they will return to the Dun + of the double-crest; for though the Saxon drum can call the living to die, + it cannot recall the dead to their slavish standard. Then will we travel + together far northward to the salt lakes of Kintail, and place glens and + mountains betwixt us and the sons of Dermid. We will visit the shores of + the dark lake; and my kinsmen—for was not my mother of the children + of Kenneth, and will they not remember us with the old love?—my + kinsmen will receive us with the affection of the olden time, which lives + in those distant glens, where the Gael still dwell in their nobleness, + unmingled with the churl Saxons, or with the base brood that are their + tools and their slaves.” + </p> + <p> + The energy of the language, somewhat allied to hyperbole, even in its most + ordinary expressions, now seemed almost too weak to afford Elspat the + means of bringing out the splendid picture which she presented to her son + of the land in which she proposed to him to take refuge. Yet the colours + were few with which she could paint her Highland paradise. “The hills,” + she said, “were higher and more magnificent than those of Breadalbane—Ben + Cruachan was but a dwarf to Skooroora. The lakes were broader and larger, + and abounded not only with fish, but with the enchanted and amphibious + animal which gives oil to the lamp. [The seals are considered by the + Highlanders as enchanted princes.] The deer were larger and more numerous; + the white-tusked boar, the chase of which the brave loved best, was yet to + be roused in those western solitudes; the men were nobler, wiser, and + stronger than the degenerate brood who lived under the Saxon banner. The + daughters of the land were beautiful, with blue eyes and fair hair, and + bosoms of snow; and out of these she would choose a wife for Hamish, of + blameless descent, spotless fame, fixed and true affection, who should be + in their summer bothy as a beam of the sun, and in their winter abode as + the warmth of the needful fire.” + </p> + <p> + Such were the topics with which Elspat strove to soothe the despair of her + son, and to determine him, if possible, to leave the fatal spot, on which + he seemed resolved to linger. The style of her rhetoric was poetical, but + in other respects resembled that which, like other fond mothers, she had + lavished on Hamish, while a child or a boy, in order to gain his consent + to do something he had no mind to; and she spoke louder, quicker, and more + earnestly, in proportion as she began to despair of her words carrying + conviction. + </p> + <p> + On the mind of Hamish her eloquence made no impression. He knew far better + than she did the actual situation of the country, and was sensible that, + though it might be possible to hide himself as a fugitive among more + distant mountains, there was now no corner in the Highlands in which his + father’s profession could be practised, even if he had not adopted, from + the improved ideas of the time when he lived, the opinion that the trade + of the cateran was no longer the road to honour and distinction. Her words + were therefore poured into regardless ears, and she exhausted herself in + vain in the attempt to paint the regions of her mother’s kinsmen in such + terms as might tempt Hamish to accompany her thither. She spoke for hours, + but she spoke in vain. She could extort no answer, save groans and sighs + and ejaculations, expressing the extremity of despair. + </p> + <p> + At length, starting on her feet, and changing the monotonous tone in which + she had chanted, as it were, the praises of the province of refuge, into + the short, stern language of eager passion—“I am a fool,” she said, + “to spend my words upon an idle, poor-spirited, unintelligent boy, who + crouches like a hound to the lash. Wait here, and receive your + taskmasters, and abide your chastisement at their hands; but do not think + your mother’s eyes will behold it. I could not see it and live. My eyes + have looked often upon death, but never upon dishonour. Farewell, Hamish! + We never meet again.” + </p> + <p> + She dashed from the hut like a lapwing, and perhaps for the moment + actually entertained the purpose which she expressed, of parting with her + son for ever. A fearful sight she would have been that evening to any who + might have met her wandering through the wilderness like a restless + spirit, and speaking to herself in language which will endure no + translation. She rambled for hours, seeking rather than shunning the most + dangerous paths. The precarious track through the morass, the dizzy path + along the edge of the precipice or by the banks of the gulfing river, were + the roads which, far from avoiding, she sought with eagerness, and + traversed with reckless haste. But the courage arising from despair was + the means of saving the life which (though deliberate suicide was rarely + practised in the Highlands) she was perhaps desirous of terminating. Her + step on the verge of the precipice was firm as that of the wild goat. Her + eye, in that state of excitation, was so keen as to discern, even amid + darkness, the perils which noon would not have enabled a stranger to + avoid. + </p> + <p> + Elspat’s course was not directly forward, else she had soon been far from + the bothy in which she had left her son. It was circuitous, for that hut + was the centre to which her heartstrings were chained, and though she + wandered around it, she felt it impossible to leave the vicinity. With the + first beams of morning she returned to the hut. Awhile she paused at the + wattled door, as if ashamed that lingering fondness should have brought + her back to the spot which she had left with the purpose of never + returning; but there was yet more of fear and anxiety in her hesitation—of + anxiety, lest her fair-haired son had suffered from the effects of her + potion—of fear, lest his enemies had come upon him in the night. She + opened the door of the hut gently, and entered with noiseless step. + Exhausted with his sorrow and anxiety, and not entirely relieved perhaps + from the influence of the powerful opiate, Hamish Bean again slept the + stern, sound sleep by which the Indians are said to be overcome during the + interval of their torments. His mother was scarcely sure that she actually + discerned his form on the bed, scarce certain that her ear caught the + sound of his breathing. With a throbbing heart, Elspat went to the + fireplace in the centre of the hut, where slumbered, covered with a piece + of turf, the glimmering embers of the fire, never extinguished on a + Scottish hearth until the indwellers leave the mansion for ever. + </p> + <p> + “Feeble greishogh,” [Greishogh, a glowing ember.] she said, as she + lighted, by the help of a match, a splinter of bog pine which was to serve + the place of a candle—“weak greishogh, soon shalt thou be put out + for ever, and may Heaven grant that the life of Elspat MacTavish have no + longer duration than thine!” + </p> + <p> + While she spoke she raised the blazing light towards the bed, on which + still lay the prostrate limbs of her son, in a posture that left it + doubtful whether he slept or swooned. As she advanced towards him, the + light flashed upon his eyes—he started up in an instant, made a + stride forward with his naked dirk in his hand, like a man armed to meet a + mortal enemy, and exclaimed, “Stand off!—on thy life, stand off!” + </p> + <p> + “It is the word and the action of my husband,” answered Elspat; “and I + know by his speech and his step the son of MacTavish Mhor.” + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” said Hamish, relapsing from his tone of desperate firmness into + one of melancholy expostulation—“oh, dearest mother, wherefore have + you returned hither?” + </p> + <p> + “Ask why the hind comes back to the fawn,” said Elspat, “why the cat of + the mountain returns to her lodge and her young. Know you, Hamish, that + the heart of the mother only lives in the bosom of the child.” + </p> + <p> + “Then will it soon cease to throb,” said Hamish, “unless it can beat + within a bosom that lies beneath the turf. Mother, do not blame me. If I + weep, it is not for myself but for you; for my sufferings will soon be + over, but yours—oh, who but Heaven shall set a boundary to them?” + </p> + <p> + Elspat shuddered and stepped backward, but almost instantly resumed her + firm and upright position and her dauntless bearing. + </p> + <p> + “I thought thou wert a man but even now,” she said, “and thou art again a + child. Hearken to me yet, and let us leave this place together. Have I + done thee wrong or injury? if so, yet do not avenge it so cruelly. See, + Elspat MacTavish, who never kneeled before even to a priest, falls + prostrate before her own son, and craves his forgiveness.” And at once she + threw herself on her knees before the young man, seized on his hand, and + kissing it an hundred times, repeated as often, in heart-breaking accents, + the most earnest entreaties for forgiveness. “Pardon,” she exclaimed, + “pardon, for the sake of your father’s ashes—pardon, for the sake of + the pain with which I bore thee, the care with which I nurtured thee!—Hear + it, Heaven, and behold it, Earth—the mother asks pardon of her + child, and she is refused!” + </p> + <p> + It was in vain that Hamish endeavoured to stem this tide of passion, by + assuring his mother, with the most solemn asseverations, that he forgave + entirely the fatal deceit which she had practised upon him. + </p> + <p> + “Empty words,” she said, “idle protestations, which are but used to hide + the obduracy of your resentment. Would you have me believe you, then leave + the hut this instant, and retire from a country which every hour renders + more dangerous. Do this, and I may think you have forgiven me; refuse it, + and again I call on moon and stars, heaven and earth, to witness the + unrelenting resentment with which you prosecute your mother for a fault, + which, if it be one, arose out of love to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” said Hamish, “on this subject you move me not. I will fly before + no man. If Barcaldine should send every Gael that is under his banner, + here, and in this place, will I abide them; and when you bid me fly, you + may as well command yonder mountain to be loosened from its foundations. + Had I been sure of the road by which they are coming hither, I had spared + them the pains of seeking me; but I might go by the mountain, while they + perchance came by the lake. Here I will abide my fate; nor is there in + Scotland a voice of power enough to bid me stir from hence, and be + obeyed.” + </p> + <p> + “Here, then, I also stay,” said Elspat, rising up and speaking with + assumed composure. “I have seen my husband’s death—my eyelids shall + not grieve to look on the fall of my son. But MacTavish Mhor died as + became the brave, with his good sword in his right hand; my son will + perish like the bullock that is driven to the shambles by the Saxon owner + who had bought him for a price.” + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” said the unhappy young man, “you have taken my life. To that you + have a right, for you gave it; but touch not my honour! It came to me from + a brave train of ancestors, and should be sullied neither by man’s deed + nor woman’s speech. What I shall do, perhaps I myself yet know not; but + tempt me no farther by reproachful words—you have already made + wounds more than you can ever heal.” + </p> + <p> + “It is well, my son,” said Elspat, in reply. “Expect neither farther + complaint nor remonstrance from me; but let us be silent, and wait the + chance which Heaven shall send us.” + </p> + <p> + The sun arose on the next morning, and found the bothy silent as the + grave. The mother and son had arisen, and were engaged each in their + separate task—Hamish in preparing and cleaning his arms with the + greatest accuracy, but with an air of deep dejection. Elspat, more + restless in her agony of spirit, employed herself in making ready the food + which the distress of yesterday had induced them both to dispense with for + an unusual number of hours. She placed it on the board before her son so + soon as it was prepared, with the words of a Gaelic poet, “Without daily + food, the husbandman’s ploughshare stands still in the furrow; without + daily food, the sword of the warrior is too heavy for his hand. Our bodies + are our slaves, yet they must be fed if we would have their service. So + spake in ancient days the Blind Bard to the warriors of Fion.” + </p> + <p> + The young man made no reply, but he fed on what was placed before him, as + if to gather strength for the scene which he was to undergo. When his + mother saw that he had eaten what sufficed him, she again filled the fatal + quaigh, and proffered it as the conclusion of the repast. But he started + aside with a convulsive gesture, expressive at once of fear and + abhorrence. + </p> + <p> + “Nay, my son,” she said, “this time surely, thou hast no cause of fear.” + </p> + <p> + “Urge me not, mother,” answered Hamish—“or put the leprous toad into + a flagon, and I will drink; but from that accursed cup, and of that + mind-destroying potion, never will I taste more!” + </p> + <p> + “At your pleasure, my son,” said Elspat, haughtily, and began, with much + apparent assiduity, the various domestic tasks which had been interrupted + during the preceding day. Whatever was at her heart, all anxiety seemed + banished from her looks and demeanour. It was but from an over-activity of + bustling exertion that it might have been perceived, by a close observer, + that her actions were spurred by some internal cause of painful + excitement; and such a spectator, too, might also have observed how often + she broke off the snatches of songs or tunes which she hummed, apparently + without knowing what she was doing, in order to cast a hasty glance from + the door of the hut. Whatever might be in the mind of Hamish, his + demeanour was directly the reverse of that adopted by his mother. Having + finished the task of cleaning and preparing his arms, which he arranged + within the hut, he sat himself down before the door of the bothy, and + watched the opposite hill, like the fixed sentinel who expects the + approach of an enemy. Noon found him in the same unchanged posture, and it + was an hour after that period, when his mother, standing beside him, laid + her hand on his shoulder, and said, in a tone indifferent, as if she had + been talking of some friendly visit, “When dost thou expect them?” + </p> + <p> + “They cannot be here till the shadows fall long to the eastward,” replied + Hamish; “that is, even supposing the nearest party, commanded by Sergeant + Allan Breack Cameron, has been commanded hither by express from Dunbarton, + as it is most likely they will.” + </p> + <p> + “Then enter beneath your mother’s roof once more; partake the last time of + the food which she has prepared; after this, let them come, and thou shalt + see if thy mother is an useless encumbrance in the day of strife. Thy + hand, practised as it is, cannot fire these arms so fast as I can load + them; nay, if it is necessary, I do not myself fear the flash or the + report, and my aim has been held fatal.” + </p> + <p> + “In the name of Heaven, mother, meddle not with this matter!” said Hamish. + “Allan Breack is a wise man and a kind one, and comes of a good stem. It + may be, he can promise for our officers that they will touch me with no + infamous punishment; and if they offer me confinement in the dungeon, or + death by the musket, to that I may not object.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas, and wilt thou trust to their word, my foolish child? Remember the + race of Dermid were ever fair and false; and no sooner shall they have + gyves on thy hands, than they will strip thy shoulders for the scourge.” + </p> + <p> + “Save your advice, mother,” said Hamish, sternly; “for me, my mind is made + up.” + </p> + <p> + But though he spoke thus, to escape the almost persecuting urgency of his + mother, Hamish would have found it, at that moment, impossible to say upon + what course of conduct he had thus fixed. On one point alone he was + determined—namely, to abide his destiny, be what it might, and not + to add to the breach of his word, of which he had been involuntarily + rendered guilty, by attempting to escape from punishment. This act of + self-devotion he conceived to be due to his own honour and that of his + countrymen. Which of his comrades would in future be trusted, if he should + be considered as having broken his word, and betrayed the confidence of + his officers? and whom but Hamish Bean MacTavish would the Gael accuse for + having verified and confirmed the suspicions which the Saxon General was + well known to entertain against the good faith of the Highlanders? He was, + therefore, bent firmly to abide his fate. But whether his intention was to + yield himself peaceably into the bands of the party who should come to + apprehend him, or whether he purposed, by a show of resistance, to provoke + them to kill him on the spot, was a question which he could not himself + have answered. His desire to see Barcaldine, and explain the cause of his + absence at the appointed time, urged him to the one course; his fear of + the degrading punishment, and of his mother’s bitter upbraidings, strongly + instigated the latter and the more dangerous purpose. He left it to chance + to decide when the crisis should arrive; nor did he tarry long in + expectation of the catastrophe. + </p> + <p> + Evening approached; the gigantic shadows of the mountains streamed in + darkness towards the east, while their western peaks were still glowing + with crimson and gold. The road which winds round Ben Cruachan was fully + visible from the door of the bothy, when a party of five Highland + soldiers, whose arms glanced in the sun, wheeled suddenly into sight from + the most distant extremity, where the highway is hidden behind the + mountain. One of the party walked a little before the other four, who + marched regularly and in files, according to the rules of military + discipline. There was no dispute, from the firelocks which they carried, + and the plaids and bonnets which they wore, that they were a party of + Hamish’s regiment, under a non-commissioned officer; and there could be as + little doubt of the purpose of their appearance on the banks of Loch Awe. + </p> + <p> + “They come briskly forward”—said the widow of MacTavish Mhor;—“I + wonder how fast or how slow some of them will return again! But they are + five, and it is too much odds for a fair field. Step back within the hut, + my son, and shoot from the loophole beside the door. Two you may bring + down ere they quit the highroad for the footpath—there will remain + but three; and your father, with my aid, has often stood against that + number.” + </p> + <p> + Hamish Bean took the gun which his mother offered, but did not stir from + the door of the hut. He was soon visible to the party on the highroad, as + was evident from their increasing their pace to a run—the files, + however, still keeping together like coupled greyhounds, and advancing + with great rapidity. In far less time than would have been accomplished by + men less accustomed to the mountains, they had left the highroad, + traversed the narrow path, and approached within pistol-shot of the bothy, + at the door of which stood Hamish, fixed like a statue of stone, with his + firelock in his band, while his mother, placed behind him, and almost + driven to frenzy by the violence of her passions, reproached him in the + strongest terms which despair could invent, for his want of resolution and + faintness of heart. Her words increased the bitter gall which was arising + in the young man’s own spirit, as he observed the unfriendly speed with + which his late comrades were eagerly making towards him, like hounds + towards the stag when he is at bay. The untamed and angry passions which + he inherited from father and mother, were awakened by the supposed + hostility of those who pursued him; and the restraint under which these + passions had been hitherto held by his sober judgment began gradually to + give way. The sergeant now called to him, “Hamish Bean MacTavish, lay down + your arms and surrender.” + </p> + <p> + “Do YOU stand, Allan Breack Cameron, and command your men to stand, or it + will be the worse for us all.” + </p> + <p> + “Halt, men,” said the sergeant, but continuing himself to advance. + “Hamish, think what you do, and give up your gun; you may spill blood, but + you cannot escape punishment.” + </p> + <p> + “The scourge—the scourge—my son, beware the scourge!” + whispered his mother. + </p> + <p> + “Take heed, Allan Breack,” said Hamish. “I would not hurt you willingly, + but I will not be taken unless you can assure me against the Saxon lash.” + </p> + <p> + “Fool!” answered Cameron, “you know I cannot. Yet I will do all I can. I + will say I met you on your return, and the punishment will be light; but + give up your musket—Come on, men.” + </p> + <p> + Instantly he rushed forward, extending his arm as if to push aside the + young man’s levelled firelock. Elspat exclaimed, “Now, spare not your + father’s blood to defend your father’s hearth!” Hamish fired his piece, + and Cameron dropped dead. All these things happened, it might be said, in + the same moment of time. The soldiers rushed forward and seized Hamish, + who, seeming petrified with what he had done, offered not the least + resistance. Not so his mother, who, seeing the men about to put handcuffs + on her son, threw herself on the soldiers with such fury, that it required + two of them to hold her, while the rest secured the prisoner. + </p> + <p> + “Are you not an accursed creature,” said one of the men to Hamish, “to + have slain your best friend, who was contriving, during the whole march, + how he could find some way of getting you off without punishment for your + desertion?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you hear THAT, mother?” said Hamish, turning himself as much towards + her as his bonds would permit; but the mother heard nothing, and saw + nothing. She had fainted on the floor of her hut. Without waiting for her + recovery, the party almost immediately began their homeward march towards + Dunbarton, leading along with them their prisoner. They thought it + necessary, however, to stay for a little space at the village of Dalmally, + from which they despatched a party of the inhabitants to bring away the + body of their unfortunate leader, while they themselves repaired to a + magistrate, to state what had happened, and require his instructions as to + the farther course to be pursued. The crime being of a military character, + they were instructed to march the prisoner to Dunbarton without delay. + </p> + <p> + The swoon of the mother of Hamish lasted for a length of time—the + longer perhaps that her constitution, strong as it was, must have been + much exhausted by her previous agitation of three days’ endurance. She was + roused from her stupor at length by female voices, which cried the + coronach, or lament for the dead, with clapping of hands and loud + exclamations; while the melancholy note of a lament, appropriate to the + clan Cameron, played on the bagpipe, was heard from time to time. + </p> + <p> + Elspat started up like one awakened from the dead, and without any + accurate recollection of the scene which had passed before her eyes. There + were females in the hut who were swathing the corpse in its bloody plaid + before carrying it from the fatal spot. “Women,” she said, starting up and + interrupting their chant at once and their labour—“Tell me, women, + why sing you the dirge of MacDhonuil Dhu in the house of MacTavish Mhor?” + </p> + <p> + “She-wolf, be silent with thine ill-omened yell,” answered one of the + females, a relation of the deceased, “and let us do our duty to our + beloved kinsman. There shall never be coronach cried, or dirge played, for + thee or thy bloody wolf-burd. [Wolf-brood—that is, wolf-cub.] The + ravens shall eat him from the gibbet, and the foxes and wild-cats shall + tear thy corpse upon the hill. Cursed be he that would sain [Bless.] your + bones, or add a stone to your cairn!” + </p> + <p> + “Daughter of a foolish mother,” answered the widow of MacTavish Mhor, + “know that the gibbet with which you threaten us is no portion of our + inheritance. For thirty years the Black Tree of the Law, whose apples are + dead men’s bodies, hungered after the beloved husband of my heart; but he + died like a brave man, with the sword in his hand, and defrauded it of its + hopes and its fruit.” + </p> + <p> + “So shall it not be with thy child, bloody sorceress,” replied the female + mourner, whose passions were as violent as those of Elspat herself. “The + ravens shall tear his fair hair to line their nests, before the sun sinks + beneath the Treshornish islands.” + </p> + <p> + These words recalled to Elspat’s mind the whole history of the last three + dreadful days. At first she stood fixed, as if the extremity of distress + had converted her into stone; but in a minute, the pride and violence of + her temper, outbraved as she thought herself on her own threshold, enabled + her to reply, “Yes, insulting hag, my fair-haired boy may die, but it will + not be with a white hand. It has been dyed in the blood of his enemy, in + the best blood of a Cameron—remember that; and when you lay your + dead in his grave, let it be his best epitaph that he was killed by Hamish + Bean for essaying to lay hands on the son of MacTavish Mhor on his own + threshold. Farewell—the shame of defeat, loss, and slaughter remain + with the clan that has endured it!” + </p> + <p> + The relative of the slaughtered Cameron raised her voice in reply; but + Elspat, disdaining to continue the objurgation, or perhaps feeling her + grief likely to overmaster her power of expressing her resentment, had + left the hut, and was walking forth in the bright moonshine. + </p> + <p> + The females who were arranging the corpse of the slaughtered man hurried + from their melancholy labour to look after her tall figure as it glided + away among the cliffs. “I am glad she is gone,” said one of the younger + persons who assisted. “I would as soon dress a corpse when the great fiend + himself—God sain us!—stood visibly before us, as when Elspat + of the Tree is amongst us. Ay, ay, even overmuch intercourse hath she had + with the enemy in her day.” + </p> + <p> + “Silly woman,” answered the female who had maintained the dialogue with + the departed Elspat, “thinkest thou that there is a worse fiend on earth, + or beneath it, than the pride and fury of an offended woman, like yonder + bloody-minded hag? Know that blood has been as familiar to her as the dew + to the mountain daisy. Many and many a brave man has she caused to breathe + their last for little wrong they had done to her or theirs. But her + hough-sinews are cut, now that her wolf-burd must, like a murderer as he + is, make a murderer’s end.” + </p> + <p> + Whilst the women thus discoursed together, as they watched the corpse of + Allan Breack Cameron, the unhappy cause of his death pursued her lonely + way across the mountain. While she remained within sight of the bothy, she + put a strong constraint on herself, that by no alteration of pace or + gesture she might afford to her enemies the triumph of calculating the + excess of her mental agitation, nay, despair. She stalked, therefore, with + a slow rather than a swift step, and, holding herself upright, seemed at + once to endure with firmness that woe which was passed, and bid defiance + to that which was about to come. But when she was beyond the sight of + those who remained in the hut, she could no longer suppress the extremity + of her agitation. Drawing her mantle wildly round her, she stopped at the + first knoll, and climbing to its summit, extended her arms up to the + bright moon, as if accusing heaven and earth for her misfortunes, and + uttered scream on scream, like those of an eagle whose nest has been + plundered of her brood. Awhile she vented her grief in these inarticulate + cries, then rushed on her way with a hasty and unequal step, in the vain + hope of overtaking the party which was conveying her son a prisoner to + Dunbarton. But her strength, superhuman as it seemed, failed her in the + trial; nor was it possible for her, with her utmost efforts, to accomplish + her purpose. + </p> + <p> + Yet she pressed onward, with all the speed which her exhausted frame could + exert. When food became indispensable, she entered the first cottage. + “Give me to eat,” she said. “I am the widow of MacTavish Mhor—I am + the mother of Hamish MacTavish Bean,—give me to eat, that I may once + more see my fair-haired son.” Her demand was never refused, though granted + in many cases with a kind of struggle between compassion and aversion in + some of those to whom she applied, which was in others qualified by fear. + The share she had had in occasioning the death of Allan Breack Cameron, + which must probably involve that of her own son, was not accurately known; + but, from a knowledge of her violent passions and former habits of life, + no one doubted that in one way or other she had been the cause of the + catastrophe, and Hamish Bean was considered, in the slaughter which he had + committed, rather as the instrument than as the accomplice of his mother. + </p> + <p> + This general opinion of his countrymen was of little service to the + unfortunate Hamish. As his captain, Green Colin, understood the manners + and habits of his country, he had no difficulty in collecting from Hamish + the particulars accompanying his supposed desertion, and the subsequent + death of the non-commissioned officer. He felt the utmost compassion for a + youth, who had thus fallen a victim to the extravagant and fatal fondness + of a parent. But he had no excuse to plead which could rescue his unhappy + recruit from the doom which military discipline and the award of a + court-martial denounced against him for the crime he had committed. + </p> + <p> + No time had been lost in their proceedings, and as little was interposed + betwixt sentence and execution. General — had determined to make a + severe example of the first deserter who should fall into his power, and + here was one who had defended himself by main force, and slain in the + affray the officer sent to take him into custody. A fitter subject for + punishment could not have occurred, and Hamish was sentenced to immediate + execution. All which the interference of his captain in his favour could + procure was that he should die a soldier’s death; for there had been a + purpose of executing him upon the gibbet. + </p> + <p> + The worthy clergyman of Glenorquhy chanced to be at Dunbarton, in + attendance upon some church courts, at the time of this catastrophe. He + visited his unfortunate parishioner in his dungeon, found him ignorant + indeed, but not obstinate, and the answers which he received from him, + when conversing on religious topics, were such as induced him doubly to + regret that a mind naturally pure and noble should have remained unhappily + so wild and uncultivated. + </p> + <p> + When he ascertained the real character and disposition of the young man, + the worthy pastor made deep and painful reflections on his own shyness and + timidity, which, arising out of the evil fame that attached to the lineage + of Hamish, had restrained him from charitably endeavouring to bring this + strayed sheep within the great fold. While the good minister blamed his + cowardice in times past, which had deterred him from risking his person, + to save, perhaps, an immortal soul, he resolved no longer to be governed + by such timid counsels, but to endeavour, by application to his officers, + to obtain a reprieve, at least, if not a pardon, for the criminal, in whom + he felt so unusually interested, at once from his docility of temper and + his generosity of disposition. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly the divine sought out Captain Campbell at the barracks within + the garrison. There was a gloomy melancholy on the brow of Green Colin, + which was not lessened, but increased, when the clergyman stated his name, + quality, and errand. “You cannot tell me better of the young man than I am + disposed to believe,” answered the Highland officer; “you cannot ask me to + do more in his behalf than I am of myself inclined, and have already + endeavoured to do. But it is all in vain. General — is half a + Lowlander, half an Englishman. He has no idea of the high and enthusiastic + character which in these mountains often brings exalted virtues in contact + with great crimes, which, however, are less offences of the heart than + errors of the understanding. I have gone so far as to tell him, that in + this young man he was putting to death the best and the bravest of my + company, where all, or almost all, are good and brave. I explained to him + by what strange delusion the culprit’s apparent desertion was occasioned, + and how little his heart was accessory to the crime which his hand + unhappily committed. His answer was, ‘These are Highland visions, Captain + Campbell, as unsatisfactory and vain as those of the second sight. An act + of gross desertion may, in any case, be palliated under the plea of + intoxication; the murder of an officer may be as easily coloured over with + that of temporary insanity. The example must be made, and if it has fallen + on a man otherwise a good recruit, it will have the greater effect.’ Such + being the general’s unalterable purpose,” continued Captain Campbell, with + a sigh, “be it your care, reverend sir, that your penitent prepare by + break of day tomorrow for that great change which we shall all one day be + subjected to.” + </p> + <p> + “And for which,” said the clergyman, “may God prepare us all, as I in my + duty will not be wanting to this poor youth!” + </p> + <p> + Next morning, as the very earliest beams of sunrise saluted the grey + towers which crown the summit of that singular and tremendous rock, the + soldiers of the new Highland regiment appeared on the parade, within the + Castle of Dunbarton, and having fallen into order, began to move downward + by steep staircases, and narrow passages towards the external + barrier-gate, which is at the very bottom of the rock. The wild wailings + of the pibroch were heard at times, interchanged with the drums and fifes, + which beat the Dead March. + </p> + <p> + The unhappy criminal’s fate did not, at first, excite that general + sympathy in the regiment which would probably have arisen had he been + executed for desertion alone. The slaughter of the unfortunate Allan + Breack had given a different colour to Hamish’s offence; for the deceased + was much beloved, and besides belonged to a numerous and powerful clan, of + whom there were many in the ranks. The unfortunate criminal, on the + contrary, was little known to, and scarcely connected with, any of his + regimental companions. His father had been, indeed, distinguished for his + strength and manhood; but he was of a broken clan, as those names were + called who had no chief to lead them to battle. + </p> + <p> + It would have been almost impossible in another case to have turned out of + the ranks of the regiment the party necessary for execution of the + sentence; but the six individuals selected for that purpose, were friends + of the deceased, descended, like him, from the race of MacDhonuil Dhu; and + while they prepared for the dismal task which their duty imposed, it was + not without a stern feeling of gratified revenge. The leading company of + the regiment began now to defile from the barrier-gate, and was followed + by the others, each successively moving and halting according to the + orders of the adjutant, so as to form three sides of an oblong square, + with the ranks faced inwards. The fourth, or blank side of the square, was + closed up by the huge and lofty precipice on which the Castle rises. About + the centre of the procession, bare-headed, disarmed, and with his hands + bound, came the unfortunate victim of military law. He was deadly pale, + but his step was firm and his eye as bright as ever. The clergyman walked + by his side; the coffin, which was to receive his mortal remains, was + borne before him. The looks of his comrades were still, composed, and + solemn. They felt for the youth, whose handsome form and manly yet + submissive deportment had, as soon as he was distinctly visible to them, + softened the hearts of many, even of some who had been actuated by + vindictive feelings. + </p> + <p> + The coffin destined for the yet living body of Hamish Bean was placed at + the bottom of the hollow square, about two yards distant from the foot of + the precipice, which rises in that place as steep as a stone wall to the + height of three or four hundred feet. Thither the prisoner was also led, + the clergyman still continuing by his side, pouring forth exhortations of + courage and consolation, to which the youth appeared to listen with + respectful devotion. With slow, and, it seemed, almost unwilling steps, + the firing party entered the square, and were drawn up facing the + prisoner, about ten yards distant. The clergyman was now about to retire. + “Think, my son,” he said, “on what I have told you, and let your hope be + rested on the anchor which I have given. You will then exchange a short + and miserable existence here for a life in which you will experience + neither sorrow nor pain. Is there aught else which you can entrust to me + to execute for you?” + </p> + <p> + The youth looked at his sleeve buttons. They were of gold, booty perhaps + which his father had taken from some English officer during the civil + wars. The clergyman disengaged them from his sleeves. + </p> + <p> + “My mother!” he said with some effort—“give them to my poor mother! + See her, good father, and teach her what she should think of all this. + Tell her Hamish Bean is more glad to die than ever he was to rest after + the longest day’s hunting. Farewell, sir—farewell!” + </p> + <p> + The good man could scarce retire from the fatal spot. An officer afforded + him the support of his arm. At his last look towards Hamish, he beheld him + alive and kneeling on the coffin; the few that were around him had all + withdrawn. The fatal word was given, the rock rung sharp to the sound of + the discharge, and Hamish, falling forward with a groan, died, it may be + supposed, without almost a sense of the passing agony. + </p> + <p> + Ten or twelve of his own company then came forward, and laid with solemn + reverence the remains of their comrade in the coffin, while the Dead March + was again struck up, and the several companies, marching in single files, + passed the coffin one by one, in order that all might receive from the + awful spectacle the warning which it was peculiarly intended to afford. + The regiment was then marched off the ground, and reascended the ancient + cliff, their music, as usual on such occasions, striking lively strains, + as if sorrow, or even deep thought, should as short a while as possible be + the tenant of the soldier’s bosom. + </p> + <p> + At the same time the small party, which we before mentioned, bore the bier + of the ill-fated Hamish to his humble grave, in a corner of the churchyard + of Dunbarton, usually assigned to criminals. Here, among the dust of the + guilty, lies a youth, whose name, had he survived the ruin of the fatal + events by which he was hurried into crime, might have adorned the annals + of the brave. + </p> + <p> + The minister of Glenorquhy left Dunbarton immediately after he had + witnessed the last scene of this melancholy catastrophe. His reason + acquiesced in the justice of the sentence, which required blood for blood, + and he acknowledged that the vindictive character of his countrymen + required to be powerfully restrained by the strong curb of social law. But + still he mourned over the individual victim. Who may arraign the bolt of + Heaven when it bursts among the sons of the forest? yet who can refrain + from mourning when it selects for the object of its blighting aim the fair + stem of a young oak, that promised to be the pride of the dell in which it + flourished? Musing on these melancholy events, noon found him engaged in + the mountain passes, by which he was to return to his still distant home. + </p> + <p> + Confident in his knowledge of the country, the clergyman had left the main + road, to seek one of those shorter paths, which are only used by + pedestrians, or by men, like the minister, mounted on the small, but + sure-footed, hardy, and sagacious horses of the country. The place which + he now traversed was in itself gloomy and desolate, and tradition had + added to it the terror of superstition, by affirming it was haunted by an + evil spirit, termed CLOGHT-DEARG—that is, Redmantle—who at all + times, but especially at noon and at midnight, traversed the glen, in + enmity both to man and the inferior creation, did such evil as her power + was permitted to extend to, and afflicted with ghastly terrors those whom + she had not license otherwise to hurt. + </p> + <p> + The minister of Glenorquhy had set his face in opposition to many of these + superstitions, which he justly thought were derived from the dark ages of + Popery, perhaps even from those of paganism, and unfit to be entertained + or believed by the Christians of an enlightened age. Some of his more + attached parishioners considered him as too rash in opposing the ancient + faith of their fathers; and though they honoured the moral intrepidity of + their pastor, they could not avoid entertaining and expressing fears that + he would one day fall a victim to his temerity, and be torn to pieces in + the glen of the Cloght-dearg, or some of those other haunted wilds, which + he appeared rather to have a pride and pleasure in traversing alone, on + the days and hours when the wicked spirits were supposed to have especial + power over man and beast. + </p> + <p> + These legends came across the mind of the clergyman, and, solitary as he + was, a melancholy smile shaded his cheek, as he thought of the + inconsistency of human nature, and reflected how many brave men, whom the + yell of the pibroch would have sent headlong against fixed bayonets, as + the wild bull rushes on his enemy, might have yet feared to encounter + those visionary terrors, which he himself, a man of peace, and in ordinary + perils no way remarkable for the firmness of his nerves, was now risking + without hesitation. + </p> + <p> + As he looked around the scene of desolation, he could not but acknowledge, + in his own mind, that it was not ill chosen for the haunt of those + spirits, which are said to delight in solitude and desolation. The glen + was so steep and narrow that there was but just room for the meridian sun + to dart a few scattered rays upon the gloomy and precarious stream which + stole through its recesses, for the most part in silence, but occasionally + murmuring sullenly against the rocks and large stones which seemed + determined to bar its further progress. In winter, or in the rainy season, + this small stream was a foaming torrent of the most formidable magnitude, + and it was at such periods that it had torn open and laid bare the + broad-faced and huge fragments of rock which, at the season of which we + speak, hid its course from the eye, and seemed disposed totally to + interrupt its course. “Undoubtedly,” thought the clergyman, “this mountain + rivulet, suddenly swelled by a waterspout or thunderstorm, has often been + the cause of those accidents which, happening in the glen called by her + name, have been ascribed to the agency of the Cloght-dearg.” + </p> + <p> + Just as this idea crossed his mind, he heard a female voice exclaim, in a + wild and thrilling accent, “Michael Tyrie! Michael Tyrie!” He looked round + in astonishment, and not without some fear. It seemed for an instant, as + if the evil being, whose existence he had disowned, was about to appear + for the punishment of his incredulity. This alarm did not hold him more + than an instant, nor did it prevent his replying in a firm voice, “Who + calls? and where are you?” + </p> + <p> + “One who journeys in wretchedness, between life and death,” answered the + voice; and the speaker, a tall female, appeared from among the fragments + of rocks which had concealed her from view. + </p> + <p> + As she approached more closely, her mantle of bright tartan, in which the + red colour much predominated, her stature, the long stride with which she + advanced, and the writhen features and wild eyes which were visible from + under her curch, would have made her no inadequate representative of the + spirit which gave name to the valley. But Mr. Tyrie instantly knew her as + the Woman of the Tree, the widow of MacTavish Mhor, the now childless + mother of Hamish Bean. I am not sure whether the minister would not have + endured the visitation of the Cloght-dearg herself, rather than the shock + of Elspat’s presence, considering her crime and her misery. He drew up his + horse instinctively, and stood endeavouring to collect his ideas, while a + few paces brought her up to his horse’s head. + </p> + <p> + “Michael Tyrie,” said she, “the foolish women of the Clachan [The village; + literally, the stones.] hold thee as a god—be one to me, and say + that my son lives. Say this, and I too will be of thy worship; I will bend + my knees on the seventh day in thy house of worship, and thy God shall be + my God.” + </p> + <p> + “Unhappy woman,” replied the clergyman, “man forms not pactions with his + Maker as with a creature of clay like himself. Thinkest thou to chaffer + with Him, who formed the earth, and spread out the heavens, or that thou + canst offer aught of homage or devotion that can be worth acceptance in + his eyes? He hath asked obedience, not sacrifice; patience under the + trials with which He afflicts us, instead of vain bribes, such as man + offers to his changeful brother of clay, that he may be moved from his + purpose.” + </p> + <p> + “Be silent, priest!” answered the desperate woman; “speak not to me the + words of thy white book. Elspat’s kindred were of those who crossed + themselves and knelt when the sacring bell was rung, and she knows that + atonement can be made on the altar for deeds done in the field. Elspat had + once flocks and herds, goats upon the cliffs, and cattle in the strath. + She wore gold around her neck and on her hair—thick twists, as those + worn by the heroes of old. All these would she have resigned to the priest—all + these; and if he wished for the ornaments of a gentle lady, or the sporran + of a high chief, though they had been great as Macallum Mhor himself, + MacTavish Mhor would have procured them, if Elspat had promised them. + Elspat is now poor, and has nothing to give. But the Black Abbot of + Inchaffray would have bidden her scourge her shoulders, and macerate her + feet by pilgrimage; and he would have granted his pardon to her when he + saw that her blood had flowed, and that her flesh had been torn. These + were the priests who had indeed power even with the most powerful; they + threatened the great men of the earth with the word of their mouth, the + sentence of their book, the blaze of their torch, the sound of their + sacring bell. The mighty bent to their will, and unloosed at the word of + the priests those whom they had bound in their wrath, and set at liberty, + unharmed, him whom they had sentenced to death, and for whose blood they + had thirsted. These were a powerful race, and might well ask the poor to + kneel, since their power could humble the proud. But you!—against + whom are ye strong, but against women who have been guilty of folly, and + men who never wore sword? The priests of old were like the winter torrent + which fills this hollow valley, and rolls these massive rocks against each + other as easily as the boy plays with the ball which he casts before him. + But you!—you do but resemble the summer-stricken stream, which is + turned aside by the rushes, and stemmed by a bush of sedges. Woe worth + you, for there is no help in you!” + </p> + <p> + The clergyman was at no loss to conceive that Elspat had lost the Roman + Catholic faith without gaining any other, and that she still retained a + vague and confused idea of the composition with the priesthood, by + confession, alms, and penance, and of their extensive power, which, + according to her notion, was adequate, if duly propitiated, even to + effecting her son’s safety. Compassionating her situation, and allowing + for her errors and ignorance, he answered her with mildness. + </p> + <p> + “Alas, unhappy woman! Would to God I could convince thee as easily where + thou oughtest to seek, and art sure to find, consolation, as I can assure + you with a single word, that were Rome and all her priesthood once more in + the plenitude of their power, they could not, for largesse or penance, + afford to thy misery an atom of aid or comfort—Elspat MacTavish, I + grieve to tell you the news.” + </p> + <p> + “I know them without thy speech,” said the unhappy woman. “My son is + doomed to die.” + </p> + <p> + “Elspat,” resumed the clergyman, “he WAS doomed, and the sentence has been + executed.” + </p> + <p> + The hapless mother threw her eyes up to heaven, and uttered a shriek so + unlike the voice of a human being, that the eagle which soared in middle + air answered it as she would have done the call of her mate. + </p> + <p> + “It is impossible!” she exclaimed—“it is impossible! Men do not + condemn and kill on the same day! Thou art deceiving me. The people call + thee holy—hast thou the heart to tell a mother she has murdered her + only child?” + </p> + <p> + “God knows,” said the priest, the tears falling fast from his eyes, “that + were it in my power, I would gladly tell better tidings. But these which I + bear are as certain as they are fatal. My own ears heard the death-shot, + my own eyes beheld thy son’s death—thy son’s funeral. My tongue + bears witness to what my ears heard and my eyes saw.” + </p> + <p> + The wretched female clasped her bands close together, and held them up + towards heaven like a sibyl announcing war and desolation, while, in + impotent yet frightful rage, she poured forth a tide of the deepest + imprecations. “Base Saxon churl!” she exclaimed—“vile hypocritical + juggler! May the eyes that looked tamely on the death of my fair-haired + boy be melted in their sockets with ceaseless tears, shed for those that + are nearest and most dear to thee! May the ears that heard his death-knell + be dead hereafter to all other sounds save the screech of the raven, and + the hissing of the adder! May the tongue that tells me of his death and of + my own crime, be withered in thy mouth—or better, when thou wouldst + pray with thy people, may the Evil One guide it, and give voice to + blasphemies instead of blessings, until men shall fly in terror from thy + presence, and the thunder of heaven be launched against thy head, and stop + for ever thy cursing and accursed voice! Begone, with this malison! Elspat + will never, never again bestow so many words upon living man.” + </p> + <p> + She kept her word. From that day the world was to her a wilderness, in + which she remained without thought, care, or interest, absorbed in her own + grief, indifferent to every thing else. + </p> + <p> + With her mode of life, or rather of existence, the reader is already as + far acquainted as I have the power of making him. Of her death, I can tell + him nothing. It is supposed to have happened several years after she had + attracted the attention of my excellent friend Mrs. Bethune Baliol. Her + benevolence, which was never satisfied with dropping a sentimental tear, + when there was room for the operation of effective charity, induced her to + make various attempts to alleviate the condition of this most wretched + woman. But all her exertions could only render Elspat’s means of + subsistence less precarious—a circumstance which, though generally + interesting even to the most wretched outcasts, seemed to her a matter of + total indifference. Every attempt to place any person in her hut to take + charge of her miscarried, through the extreme resentment with which she + regarded all intrusion on her solitude, or by the timidity of those who + had been pitched upon to be inmates with the terrible Woman of the Tree. + At length, when Elspat became totally unable (in appearance at least) to + turn herself on the wretched settle which served her for a couch, the + humanity of Mr. Tyrie’s successor sent two women to attend upon the last + moments of the solitary, which could not, it was judged, be far distant, + and to avert the possibility that she might perish for want of assistance + or food, before she sunk under the effects of extreme age or mortal + malady. + </p> + <p> + It was on a November evening, that the two women appointed for this + melancholy purpose arrived at the miserable cottage which we have already + described. Its wretched inmate lay stretched upon the bed, and seemed + almost already a lifeless corpse, save for the wandering of the fierce + dark eyes, which rolled in their sockets in a manner terrible to look + upon, and seemed to watch with surprise and indignation the motions of the + strangers, as persons whose presence was alike unexpected and unwelcome. + They were frightened at her looks; but, assured in each other’s company, + they kindled a fire, lighted a candle, prepared food, and made other + arrangements for the discharge of the duty assigned them. + </p> + <p> + The assistants agreed they should watch the bedside of the sick person by + turns; but, about midnight, overcome by fatigue, (for they had walked far + that morning), both of them fell fast asleep. When they awoke, which was + not till after the interval of some hours, the hut was empty, and the + patient gone. They rose in terror, and went to the door of the cottage, + which was latched as it had been at night. They looked out into the + darkness, and called upon their charge by her name. The night-raven + screamed from the old oak-tree, the fox howled on the hill, the hoarse + waterfall replied with its echoes; but there was no human answer. The + terrified women did not dare to make further search till morning should + appear; for the sudden disappearance of a creature so frail as Elspat, + together with the wild tenor of her history, intimidated them from + stirring from the hut. They remained, therefore, in dreadful terror, + sometimes thinking they heard her voice without, and at other times, that + sounds of a different description were mingled with the mournful sigh of + the night-breeze, or the dashing of the cascade. Sometimes, too, the latch + rattled, as if some frail and impotent hand were in vain attempting to + lift it, and ever and anon they expected the entrance of their terrible + patient, animated by supernatural strength, and in the company, perhaps, + of some being more dreadful than herself. Morning came at length. They + sought brake, rock, and thicket in vain. Two hours after daylight, the + minister himself appeared, and, on the report of the watchers, caused the + country to be alarmed, and a general and exact search to be made through + the whole neighbourhood of the cottage and the oak-tree. But it was all in + vain. Elspat MacTavish was never found, whether dead or alive; nor could + there ever be traced the slightest circumstance to indicate her fate. + </p> + <p> + The neighbourhood was divided concerning the cause of her disappearance. + The credulous thought that the evil spirit, under whose influence she + seemed to have acted, had carried her away in the body; and there are many + who are still unwilling, at untimely hours, to pass the oak-tree, beneath + which, as they allege, she may still be seen seated according to her wont. + Others less superstitious supposed, that had it been possible to search + the gulf of the Corri Dhu, the profound deeps of the lake, or the whelming + eddies of the river, the remains of Elspat MacTavish might have been + discovered—as nothing was more natural, considering her state of + body and mind, than that she should have fallen in by accident, or + precipitated herself intentionally, into one or other of those places of + sure destruction. The clergyman entertained an opinion of his own. He + thought that, impatient of the watch which was placed over her, this + unhappy woman’s instinct had taught her, as it directs various domestic + animals, to withdraw herself from the sight of her own race, that the + death-struggle might take place in some secret den, where, in all + probability, her mortal relics would never meet the eyes of mortals. This + species of instinctive feeling seemed to him of a tenor with the whole + course of her unhappy life, and most likely to influence her when it drew + to a conclusion. + </p> + <p> + End of THE HIGHLAND WIDOW. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + MR. CROFTANGRY INTRODUCES ANOTHER TALE. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Together both on the high lawns appeared. + Under the opening eyelids of the morn + They drove afield. ELEGY ON LYCIDAS. +</pre> + <p> + I have sometimes wondered why all the favourite occupations and pastimes + of mankind go to the disturbance of that happy state of tranquillity, that + OTIUM, as Horace terms it, which he says is the object of all men’s + prayers, whether preferred from sea or land; and that the undisturbed + repose, of which we are so tenacious, when duty or necessity compels us to + abandon it, is precisely what we long to exchange for a state of + excitation, as soon as we may prolong it at our own pleasure. Briefly, you + have only to say to a man, “Remain at rest,” and you instantly inspire the + love of labour. The sportsman toils like his gamekeeper, the master of the + pack takes as severe exercise as his whipper-in, the statesman or + politician drudges more than the professional lawyer; and, to come to my + own case, the volunteer author subjects himself to the risk of painful + criticism, and the assured certainty of mental and manual labour, just as + completely as his needy brother, whose necessities compel him to assume + the pen. + </p> + <p> + These reflections have been suggested by an annunciation on the part of + Janet, “that the little Gillie-whitefoot was come from the + printing-office.” + </p> + <p> + “Gillie-blackfoot you should call him, Janet,” was my response, “for he is + neither more nor less than an imp of the devil, come to torment me for + COPY, for so the printers call a supply of manuscript for the press.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, Cot forgie your honour,” said Janet; “for it is no like your ainsell + to give such names to a faitherless bairn.” + </p> + <p> + “I have got nothing else to give him, Janet; he must wait a little.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I have got some breakfast to give the bit gillie,” said Janet; “and + he can wait by the fireside in the kitchen, till your honour’s ready; and + cood enough for the like of him, if he was to wait your honour’s pleasure + all day.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Janet,” said I to my little active superintendent, on her return to + the parlour, after having made her hospitable arrangements, “I begin to + find this writing our Chronicles is rather more tiresome than I expected, + for here comes this little fellow to ask for manuscript—that is, for + something to print—and I have got none to give him.” + </p> + <p> + “Your honour can be at nae loss. I have seen you write fast and fast + enough; and for subjects, you have the whole Highlands to write about, and + I am sure you know a hundred tales better than that about Hamish + MacTavish, for it was but about a young cateran and an auld carlin, when + all’s done; and if they had burned the rudas quean for a witch, I am + thinking, may be they would not have tyned their coals—and her to + gar her ne’er-do-weel son shoot a gentleman Cameron! I am third cousin to + the Camerons mysel’—my blood warms to them. And if you want to write + about deserters, I am sure there were deserters enough on the top of + Arthur’s Seat, when the MacRaas broke out, and on that woeful day beside + Leith Pier—ohonari!”— + </p> + <p> + Here Janet began to weep, and to wipe her eyes with her apron. For my + part, the idea I wanted was supplied, but I hesitated to make use of it. + Topics, like times, are apt to become common by frequent use. It is only + an ass like Justice Shallow, who would pitch upon the over-scutched tunes, + which the carmen whistled, and try to pass them off as his FANCIES and his + GOOD-NIGHTS. Now, the Highlands, though formerly a rich mine for original + matter, are, as my friend Mrs. Bethune Baliol warned me, in some degree + worn out by the incessant labour of modern romancers and novelists, who, + finding in those remote regions primitive habits and manners, have vainly + imagined that the public can never tire of them; and so kilted Highlanders + are to be found as frequently, and nearly of as genuine descent, on the + shelves of a circulating library, as at a Caledonian ball. Much might have + been made at an earlier time out of the history of a Highland regiment, + and the singular revolution of ideas which must have taken place in the + minds of those who composed it, when exchanging their native hills for the + battle-fields of the Continent, and their simple, and sometimes indolent + domestic habits for the regular exertions demanded by modern discipline. + But the market is forestalled. There is Mrs. Grant of Laggan, has drawn + the manners, customs, and superstitions of the mountains in their natural + unsophisticated state; [Letters from the Mountains, 3 vols.—Essays + on the Superstitions of the Highlanders—The Highlanders, and other + Poems, etc.] and my friend, General Stewart of Garth, [The gallant and + amiable author of the History of the Highland Regiments, in whose glorious + services his own share had been great, went out Governor of St Lucia in + 1828, and died in that island on the 18th of December 1829,—no man + more regretted, or perhaps by a wider circle of friends and acquaintance.] + in giving the real history of the Highland regiments, has rendered any + attempt to fill up the sketch with fancy-colouring extremely rash and + precarious. Yet I, too, have still a lingering fancy to add a stone to the + cairn; and without calling in imagination to aid the impressions of + juvenile recollection, I may just attempt to embody one or two scenes + illustrative of the Highland character, and which belong peculiarly to the + Chronicles of the Canongate, to the grey-headed eld of whom they are as + familiar as to Chrystal Croftangry. Yet I will not go back to the days of + clanship and claymores. Have at you, gentle reader, with a tale of Two + Drovers. An oyster may be crossed in love, says the gentle Tilburina—and + a drover may be touched on a point of honour, says the Chronicler of the + Canongate. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0018" id="link2H_4_0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THE TWO DROVERS. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + It was the day after Doune Fair when my story commences. It had been a + brisk market. Several dealers had attended from the northern and midland + counties in England, and English money had flown so merrily about as to + gladden the hearts of the Highland farmers. Many large droves were about + to set off for England, under the protection of their owners, or of the + topsmen whom they employed in the tedious, laborious, and responsible + office of driving the cattle for many hundred miles, from the market where + they had been purchased, to the fields or farmyards where they were to be + fattened for the shambles. + </p> + <p> + The Highlanders in particular are masters of this difficult trade of + driving, which seems to suit them as well as the trade of war. It affords + exercise for all their habits of patient endurance and active exertion. + They are required to know perfectly the drove-roads, which lie over the + wildest tracts of the country, and to avoid as much as possible the + highways, which distress the feet of the bullocks, and the turnpikes, + which annoy the spirit of the drover; whereas on the broad green or grey + track which leads across the pathless moor, the herd not only move at ease + and without taxation, but, if they mind their business, may pick up a + mouthful of food by the way. At night the drovers usually sleep along with + their cattle, let the weather be what it will; and many of these hardy men + do not once rest under a roof during a journey on foot from Lochaber to + Lincolnshire. They are paid very highly, for the trust reposed is of the + last importance, as it depends on their prudence, vigilance, and honesty + whether the cattle reach the final market in good order, and afford a + profit to the grazier. But as they maintain themselves at their own + expense, they are especially economical in that particular. At the period + we speak of, a Highland drover was victualled for his long and toilsome + journey with a few handfulls of oatmeal and two or three onions, renewed + from time to time, and a ram’s horn filled with whisky, which he used + regularly, but sparingly, every night and morning. His dirk, or SKENE-DHU, + (that is, black-knife), so worn as to be concealed beneath the arm, or by + the folds of the plaid, was his only weapon, excepting the cudgel with + which he directed the movements of the cattle. A Highlander was never so + happy as on these occasions. There was a variety in the whole journey, + which exercised the Celt’s natural curiosity and love of motion. There + were the constant change of place and scene, the petty adventures + incidental to the traffic, and the intercourse with the various farmers, + graziers, and traders, intermingled with occasional merry-makings, not the + less acceptable to Donald that they were void of expense. And there was + the consciousness of superior skill; for the Highlander, a child amongst + flocks, is a prince amongst herds, and his natural habits induce him to + disdain the shepherd’s slothful life, so that he feels himself nowhere + more at home than when following a gallant drove of his country cattle in + the character of their guardian. + </p> + <p> + Of the number who left Doune in the morning, and with the purpose we have + described, not a GLUNAMIE of them all cocked his bonnet more briskly, or + gartered his tartan hose under knee over a pair of more promising SPIOGS, + (legs), than did Robin Oig M’Combich, called familiarly Robin Oig, that is + young, or the Lesser, Robin. Though small of stature, as the epithet Oig + implies, and not very strongly limbed, he was as light and alert as one of + the deer of his mountains. He had an elasticity of step which, in the + course of a long march, made many a stout fellow envy him; and the manner + in which he busked his plaid and adjusted his bonnet argued a + consciousness that so smart a John Highlandman as himself would not pass + unnoticed among the Lowland lasses. The ruddy cheek, red lips, and white + teeth set off a countenance which had gained by exposure to the weather a + healthful and hardy rather than a rugged hue. If Robin Oig did not laugh, + or even smile frequently—as, indeed, is not the practice among his + countrymen—his bright eyes usually gleamed from under his bonnet + with an expression of cheerfulness ready to be turned into mirth. + </p> + <p> + The departure of Robin Oig was an incident in the little town, in and near + which he had many friends, male and female. He was a topping person in his + way, transacted considerable business on his own behalf, and was entrusted + by the best farmers in the Highlands, in preference to any other drover in + that district. He might have increased his business to any extent had he + condescended to manage it by deputy; but except a lad or two, sister’s + sons of his own, Robin rejected the idea of assistance, conscious, + perhaps, how much his reputation depended upon his attending in person to + the practical discharge of his duty in every instance. He remained, + therefore, contented with the highest premium given to persons of his + description, and comforted himself with the hopes that a few journeys to + England might enable him to conduct business on his own account, in a + manner becoming his birth. For Robin Oig’s father, Lachlan M’Combich (or + SON OF MY FRIEND, his actual clan surname being M’Gregor), had been so + called by the celebrated Rob Roy, because of the particular friendship + which had subsisted between the grandsire of Robin and that renowned + cateran. Some people even said that Robin Oig derived his Christian name + from one as renowned in the wilds of Loch Lomond as ever was his namesake + Robin Hood in the precincts of merry Sherwood. “Of such ancestry,” as + James Boswell says, “who would not be proud?” Robin Oig was proud + accordingly; but his frequent visits to England and to the Lowlands had + given him tact enough to know that pretensions which still gave him a + little right to distinction in his own lonely glen, might be both + obnoxious and ridiculous if preferred elsewhere. The pride of birth, + therefore, was like the miser’s treasure—the secret subject of his + contemplation, but never exhibited to strangers as a subject of boasting. + </p> + <p> + Many were the words of gratulation and good-luck which were bestowed on + Robin Oig. The judges commended his drove, especially Robin’s own + property, which were the best of them. Some thrust out their snuff-mulls + for the parting pinch, others tendered the DOCH-AN-DORRACH, or parting + cup. All cried, “Good-luck travel out with you and come home with you. + Give you luck in the Saxon market—brave notes in the LEABHAR-DHU,” + (black pocket-book), “and plenty of English gold in the SPORRAN” (pouch of + goat-skin). + </p> + <p> + The bonny lasses made their adieus more modestly, and more than one, it + was said, would have given her best brooch to be certain that it was upon + her that his eye last rested as he turned towards the road. + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig had just given the preliminary “HOO-HOO!” to urge forward the + loiterers of the drove, when there was a cry behind him:— + </p> + <p> + “Stay, Robin—bide a blink. Here is Janet of Tomahourich—auld + Janet, your father’s sister.” + </p> + <p> + “Plague on her, for an auld Highland witch and spaewife,” said a farmer + from the Carse of Stirling; “she’ll cast some of her cantrips on the + cattle.” + </p> + <p> + “She canna do that,” said another sapient of the same profession. “Robin + Oig is no the lad to leave any of them without tying Saint Mungo’s knot on + their tails, and that will put to her speed the best witch that ever flew + over Dimayet upon a broomstick.” + </p> + <p> + It may not be indifferent to the reader to know that the Highland cattle + are peculiarly liable to be TAKEN, or infected, by spells and witchcraft, + which judicious people guard against by knitting knots of peculiar + complexity on the tuft of hair which terminates the animal’s tail. + </p> + <p> + But the old woman who was the object of the farmer’s suspicion seemed only + busied about the drover, without paying any attention to the drove. Robin, + on the contrary, appeared rather impatient of her presence. + </p> + <p> + “What auld-world fancy,” he said, “has brought you so early from the + ingle-side this morning, Muhme? I am sure I bid you good-even, and had + your God-speed, last night.” + </p> + <p> + “And left me more siller than the useless old woman will use till you come + back again, bird of my bosom,” said the sibyl. “But it is little I would + care for the food that nourishes me, or the fire that warms me, or for + God’s blessed sun itself, if aught but weel should happen to the grandson + of my father. So let me walk the DEASIL round you, that you may go safe + out into the far foreign land, and come safe home.” + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig stopped, half embarrassed, half laughing, and signing to those + around that he only complied with the old woman to soothe her humour. In + the meantime, she traced around him, with wavering steps, the + propitiation, which some have thought has been derived from the Druidical + mythology. It consists, as is well known, in the person who makes the + DEASIL walking three times round the person who is the object of the + ceremony, taking care to move according to the course of the sun. At once, + however, she stopped short, and exclaimed, in a voice of alarm and horror, + “Grandson of my father, there is blood on your hand.” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, for God’s sake, aunt!” said Robin Oig. “You will bring more trouble + on yourself with this TAISHATARAGH” (second sight) “than you will be able + to get out of for many a day.” + </p> + <p> + The old woman only repeated, with a ghastly look, “There is blood on your + hand, and it is English blood. The blood of the Gael is richer and redder. + Let us see—let us—” + </p> + <p> + Ere Robin Oig could prevent her, which, indeed, could only have been by + positive violence, so hasty and peremptory were her proceedings, she had + drawn from his side the dirk which lodged in the folds of his plaid, and + held it up, exclaiming, although the weapon gleamed clear and bright in + the sun, “Blood, blood—Saxon blood again. Robin Oig M’Combich, go + not this day to England!” + </p> + <p> + “Prutt, trutt,” answered Robin Oig, “that will never do neither—it + would be next thing to running the country. For shame, Muhme—give me + the dirk. You cannot tell by the colour the difference betwixt the blood + of a black bullock and a white one, and you speak of knowing Saxon from + Gaelic blood. All men have their blood from Adam, Muhme. Give me my + skene-dhu, and let me go on my road. I should have been half way to + Stirling brig by this time. Give me my dirk, and let me go.” + </p> + <p> + “Never will I give it to you,” said the old woman—“Never will I quit + my hold on your plaid—unless you promise me not to wear that unhappy + weapon.” + </p> + <p> + The women around him urged him also, saying few of his aunt’s words fell + to the ground; and as the Lowland farmers continued to look moodily on the + scene, Robin Oig determined to close it at any sacrifice. + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” said the young drover, giving the scabbard of the weapon to + Hugh Morrison, “you Lowlanders care nothing for these freats. Keep my dirk + for me. I cannot give it you, because it was my father’s; but your drove + follows ours, and I am content it should be in your keeping, not in mine.—Will + this do, Muhme?” + </p> + <p> + “It must,” said the old woman—“that is, if the Lowlander is mad + enough to carry the knife.” + </p> + <p> + The strong Westlandman laughed aloud. + </p> + <p> + “Goodwife,” said he, “I am Hugh Morrison from Glenae, come of the Manly + Morrisons of auld lang syne, that never took short weapon against a man in + their lives. And neither needed they. They had their broadswords, and I + have this bit supple”—showing a formidable cudgel; “for dirking ower + the board, I leave that to John Highlandman.—Ye needna snort, none + of you Highlanders, and you in especial, Robin. I’ll keep the bit knife, + if you are feared for the auld spaewife’s tale, and give it back to you + whenever you want it.” + </p> + <p> + Robin was not particularly pleased with some part of Hugh Morrison’s + speech; but he had learned in his travels more patience than belonged to + his Highland constitution originally, and he accepted the service of the + descendant of the Manly Morrisons without finding fault with the rather + depreciating manner in which it was offered. + </p> + <p> + “If he had not had his morning in his head, and been but a Dumfriesshire + hog into the boot, he would have spoken more like a gentleman. But you + cannot have more of a sow than a grumph. It’s shame my father’s knife + should ever slash a haggis for the like of him.” + </p> + <p> + Thus saying, (but saying it in Gaelic), Robin drove on his cattle, and + waved farewell to all behind him. He was in the greater haste, because he + expected to join at Falkirk a comrade and brother in profession, with whom + he proposed to travel in company. + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig’s chosen friend was a young Englishman, Harry Wakefield by name, + well known at every northern market, and in his way as much famed and + honoured as our Highland driver of bullocks. He was nearly six feet high, + gallantly formed to keep the rounds at Smithfield, or maintain the ring at + a wrestling match; and although he might have been overmatched, perhaps, + among the regular professors of the Fancy, yet, as a yokel or rustic, or a + chance customer, he was able to give a bellyful to any amateur of the + pugilistic art. Doncaster races saw him in his glory, betting his guinea, + and generally successfully; nor was there a main fought in Yorkshire, the + feeders being persons of celebrity, at which he was not to be seen if + business permitted. But though a SPRACK lad, and fond of pleasure and its + haunts, Harry Wakefield was steady, and not the cautious Robin Oig + M’Combich himself was more attentive to the main chance. His holidays were + holidays indeed; but his days of work were dedicated to steady and + persevering labour. In countenance and temper, Wakefield was the model of + Old England’s merry yeomen, whose clothyard shafts, in so many hundred + battles, asserted her superiority over the nations, and whose good sabres, + in our own time, are her cheapest and most assured defence. His mirth was + readily excited; for, strong in limb and constitution, and fortunate in + circumstances, he was disposed to be pleased with every thing about him, + and such difficulties as he might occasionally encounter were, to a man of + his energy, rather matter of amusement than serious annoyance. With all + the merits of a sanguine temper, our young English drover was not without + his defects. He was irascible, sometimes to the verge of being + quarrelsome; and perhaps not the less inclined to bring his disputes to a + pugilistic decision, because he found few antagonists able to stand up to + him in the boxing ring. + </p> + <p> + It is difficult to say how Harry Wakefield and Robin Oig first became + intimates, but it is certain a close acquaintance had taken place betwixt + them, although they had apparently few common subjects of conversation or + of interest, so soon as their talk ceased to be of bullocks. Robin Oig, + indeed, spoke the English language rather imperfectly upon any other + topics but stots and kyloes, and Harry Wakefield could never bring his + broad Yorkshire tongue to utter a single word of Gaelic. It was in vain + Robin spent a whole morning, during a walk over Minch Moor, in attempting + to teach his companion to utter, with true precision, the shibboleth LLHU, + which is the Gaelic for a calf. From Traquair to Murder Cairn, the hill + rung with the discordant attempts of the Saxon upon the unmanageable + monosyllable, and the heartfelt laugh which followed every failure. They + had, however, better modes of awakening the echoes; for Wakefield could + sing many a ditty to the praise of Moll, Susan, and Cicely, and Robin Oig + had a particular gift at whistling interminable pibrochs through all their + involutions, and what was more agreeable to his companion’s southern ear, + knew many of the northern airs, both lively and pathetic, to which + Wakefield learned to pipe a bass. Thus, though Robin could hardly have + comprehended his companion’s stories about horse-racing, and + cock-fighting, or fox-hunting, and although his own legends of clan-fights + and CREAGHS, varied with talk of Highland goblins and fairy folk, would + have been caviare to his companion, they contrived, nevertheless to find a + degree of pleasure in each other’s company, which had for three years back + induced them to join company and travel together, when the direction of + their journey permitted. Each, indeed, found his advantage in this + companionship; for where could the Englishman have found a guide through + the Western Highlands like Robin Oig M’Combich? and when they were on what + Harry called the RIGHT side of the Border, his patronage, which was + extensive, and his purse, which was heavy, were at all times at the + service of his Highland friend, and on many occasions his liberality did + him genuine yeoman’s service. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Were ever two such loving friends!— + How could they disagree? + Oh, thus it was, he loved him dear, + And thought how to requite him, + And having no friend left but he, + He did resolve to fight him. DUKE UPON DUKE. +</pre> + <p> + The pair of friends had traversed with their usual cordiality the grassy + wilds of Liddesdale, and crossed the opposite part of Cumberland, + emphatically called The Waste. In these solitary regions the cattle under + the charge of our drovers derived their subsistence chiefly by picking + their food as they went along the drove-road, or sometimes by the tempting + opportunity of a START AND OWERLOUP, or invasion of the neighbouring + pasture, where an occasion presented itself. But now the scene changed + before them. They were descending towards a fertile and enclosed country, + where no such liberties could be taken with impunity, or without a + previous arrangement and bargain with the possessors of the ground. This + was more especially the case, as a great northern fair was upon the eve of + taking place, where both the Scotch and English drover expected to dispose + of a part of their cattle, which it was desirable to produce in the market + rested and in good order. Fields were therefore difficult to be obtained, + and only upon high terms. This necessity occasioned a temporary separation + betwixt the two friends, who went to bargain, each as he could, for the + separate accommodation of his herd. Unhappily it chanced that both of + them, unknown to each other, thought of bargaining for the ground they + wanted on the property of a country gentleman of some fortune, whose + estate lay in the neighbourhood. The English drover applied to the bailiff + on the property, who was known to him. It chanced that the Cumbrian + Squire, who had entertained some suspicions of his manager’s honesty, was + taking occasional measures to ascertain how far they were well founded, + and had desired that any enquiries about his enclosures, with a view to + occupy them for a temporary purpose, should be referred to himself. As + however, Mr. Ireby had gone the day before upon a journey of some miles + distance to the northward, the bailiff chose to consider the check upon + his full powers as for the time removed, and concluded that he should best + consult his master’s interest, and perhaps his own, in making an agreement + with Harry Wakefield. Meanwhile, ignorant of what his comrade was doing, + Robin Oig, on his side, chanced to be overtaken by a good-looking smart + little man upon a pony, most knowingly hogged and cropped, as was then the + fashion, the rider wearing tight leather breeches, and long-necked bright + spurs. This cavalier asked one or two pertinent questions about markets + and the price of stock. So Robin, seeing him a well-judging civil + gentleman, took the freedom to ask him whether he could let him know if + there was any grass-land to be let in that neighbourhood, for the + temporary accommodation of his drove. He could not have put the question + to more willing ears. The gentleman of the buckskins was the proprietor, + with whose bailiff Harry Wakefield had dealt, or was in the act of + dealing. + </p> + <p> + “Thou art in good luck, my canny Scot,” said Mr. Ireby, “to have spoken to + me, for I see thy cattle have done their day’s work, and I have at my + disposal the only field within three miles that is to be let in these + parts.” + </p> + <p> + “The drove can pe gang two, three, four miles very pratty weel indeed”—said + the cautious Highlander; “put what would his honour pe axing for the + peasts pe the head, if she was to tak the park for twa or three days?” + </p> + <p> + “We won’t differ, Sawney, if you let me have six stots for winterers, in + the way of reason.” + </p> + <p> + “And which peasts wad your honour pe for having?” + </p> + <p> + “Why—let me see—the two black—the dun one—yon + doddy—him with the twisted horn—the brockit—How much by + the head?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah,” said Robin, “your honour is a shudge—a real shudge. I couldna + have set off the pest six peasts petter mysel’—me that ken them as + if they were my pairns, puir things.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, how much per head, Sawney?” continued Mr. Ireby. + </p> + <p> + “It was high markets at Doune and Falkirk,” answered Robin. + </p> + <p> + And thus the conversation proceeded, until they had agreed on the PRIX + JUSTE for the bullocks, the Squire throwing in the temporary accommodation + of the enclosure for the cattle into the boot, and Robin making, as he + thought, a very good bargain, provided the grass was but tolerable. The + Squire walked his pony alongside of the drove, partly to show him the way, + and see him put into possession of the field, and partly to learn the + latest news of the northern markets. + </p> + <p> + They arrived at the field, and the pasture seemed excellent. But what was + their surprise when they saw the bailiff quietly inducting the cattle of + Harry Wakefield into the grassy Goshen which had just been assigned to + those of Robin Oig M’Combich by the proprietor himself! Squire Ireby set + spurs to his horse, dashed up to his servant, and learning what had passed + between the parties, briefly informed the English drover that his bailiff + had let the ground without his authority, and that he might seek grass for + his cattle wherever he would, since he was to get none there. At the same + time he rebuked his servant severely for having transgressed his commands, + and ordered him instantly to assist in ejecting the hungry and weary + cattle of Harry Wakefield, which were just beginning to enjoy a meal of + unusual plenty, and to introduce those of his comrade, whom the English + drover now began to consider as a rival. + </p> + <p> + The feelings which arose in Wakefield’s mind would have induced him to + resist Mr. Ireby’s decision; but every Englishman has a tolerably accurate + sense of law and justice, and John Fleecebumpkin, the bailiff, having + acknowledged that he had exceeded his commission, Wakefield saw nothing + else for it than to collect his hungry and disappointed charge, and drive + them on to seek quarters elsewhere. Robin Oig saw what had happened with + regret, and hastened to offer to his English friend to share with him the + disputed possession. But Wakefield’s pride was severely hurt, and he + answered disdainfully, “Take it all, man—take it all; never make two + bites of a cherry. Thou canst talk over the gentry, and blear a plain + man’s eye. Out upon you, man. I would not kiss any man’s dirty latchets + for leave to bake in his oven.” + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig, sorry but not surprised at his comrade’s displeasure, hastened + to entreat his friend to wait but an hour till he had gone to the Squire’s + house to receive payment for the cattle he had sold, and he would come + back and help him to drive the cattle into some convenient place of rest, + and explain to him the whole mistake they had both of them fallen into. + But the Englishman continued indignant: “Thou hast been selling, hast + thou? Ay, ay; thou is a cunning lad for kenning the hours of bargaining. + Go to the devil with thyself, for I will ne’er see thy fause loon’s visage + again—thou should be ashamed to look me in the face.” + </p> + <p> + “I am ashamed to look no man in the face,” said Robin Oig, something + moved; “and, moreover, I will look you in the face this blessed day, if + you will bide at the Clachan down yonder.” + </p> + <p> + “Mayhap you had as well keep away,” said his comrade; and turning his back + on his former friend, he collected his unwilling associates, assisted by + the bailiff, who took some real and some affected interest in seeing + Wakefield accommodated. + </p> + <p> + After spending some time in negotiating with more than one of the + neighbouring farmers, who could not, or would not, afford the + accommodation desired, Henry Wakefield at last, and in his necessity, + accomplished his point by means of the landlord of the alehouse at which + Robin Oig and he had agreed to pass the night, when they first separated + from each other. Mine host was content to let him turn his cattle on a + piece of barren moor, at a price little less than the bailiff had asked + for the disputed enclosure; and the wretchedness of the pasture, as well + as the price paid for it, were set down as exaggerations of the breach of + faith and friendship of his Scottish crony. This turn of Wakefield’s + passions was encouraged by the bailiff, (who had his own reasons for being + offended against poor Robin, as having been the unwitting cause of his + falling into disgrace with his master), as well as by the innkeeper, and + two or three chance guests, who stimulated the drover in his resentment + against his quondam associate—some from the ancient grudge against + the Scots, which, when it exists anywhere, is to be found lurking in the + Border counties, and some from the general love of mischief, which + characterises mankind in all ranks of life, to the honour of Adam’s + children be it spoken. Good John Barleycorn also, who always heightens and + exaggerates the prevailing passions, be they angry or kindly, was not + wanting in his offices on this occasion, and confusion to false friends + and hard masters was pledged in more than one tankard. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile Mr. Ireby found some amusement in detaining the northern + drover at his ancient hall. He caused a cold round of beef to be placed + before the Scot in the butler’s pantry, together with a foaming tankard of + home-brewed, and took pleasure in seeing the hearty appetite with which + these unwonted edibles were discussed by Robin Oig M’Combich. The Squire + himself lighting his pipe, compounded between his patrician dignity and + his love of agricultural gossip, by walking up and down while he conversed + with his guest. + </p> + <p> + “I passed another drove,” said the Squire, “with one of your countrymen + behind them. They were something less beasts than your drove—doddies + most of them. A big man was with them. None of your kilts, though, but a + decent pair of breeches. D’ye know who he may be?” + </p> + <p> + “Hout aye; that might, could, and would be Hughie Morrison. I didna think + he could hae peen sae weel up. He has made a day on us; but his + Argyleshires will have wearied shanks. How far was he pehind?” + </p> + <p> + “I think about six or seven miles,” answered the Squire, “for I passed + them at the Christenbury Crag, and I overtook you at the Hollan Bush. If + his beasts be leg-weary, he will be maybe selling bargains.” + </p> + <p> + “Na, na, Hughie Morrison is no the man for pargains—ye maun come to + some Highland body like Robin Oig hersel’ for the like of these. Put I + maun pe wishing you goot night, and twenty of them, let alane ane, and I + maun down to the Clachan to see if the lad Harry Waakfelt is out of his + humdudgeons yet.” + </p> + <p> + The party at the alehouse were still in full talk, and the treachery of + Robin Oig still the theme of conversation, when the supposed culprit + entered the apartment. His arrival, as usually happens in such a case, put + an instant stop to the discussion of which he had furnished the subject, + and he was received by the company assembled with that chilling silence + which, more than a thousand exclamations, tells an intruder that he is + unwelcome. Surprised and offended, but not appalled by the reception which + he experienced, Robin entered with an undaunted and even a haughty air, + attempted no greeting, as he saw he was received with none, and placed + himself by the side of the fire, a little apart from a table at which + Harry Wakefield, the bailiff, and two or three other persons, were seated. + The ample Cumbrian kitchen would have afforded plenty of room, even for a + larger separation. + </p> + <p> + Robin thus seated, proceeded to light his pipe, and call for a pint of + twopenny. + </p> + <p> + “We have no twopence ale,” answered Ralph Heskett the landlord; “but as + thou find’st thy own tobacco, it’s like thou mayst find thy own liquor too—it’s + the wont of thy country, I wot.” + </p> + <p> + “Shame, goodman,” said the landlady, a blithe, bustling housewife, + hastening herself to supply the guest with liquor. “Thou knowest well enow + what the strange man wants, and it’s thy trade to be civil, man. Thou + shouldst know, that if the Scot likes a small pot, he pays a sure penny.” + </p> + <p> + Without taking any notice of this nuptial dialogue, the Highlander took + the flagon in his hand, and addressing the company generally, drank the + interesting toast of “Good markets” to the party assembled. + </p> + <p> + “The better that the wind blew fewer dealers from the north,” said one of + the farmers, “and fewer Highland runts to eat up the English meadows.” + </p> + <p> + “Saul of my pody, put you are wrang there, my friend,” answered Robin, + with composure; “it is your fat Englishmen that eat up our Scots cattle, + puir things.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish there was a summat to eat up their drovers,” said another; “a + plain Englishman canna make bread within a kenning of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Or an honest servant keep his master’s favour but they will come sliding + in between him and the sunshine,” said the bailiff. + </p> + <p> + “If these pe jokes,” said Robin Oig, with the same composure, “there is + ower mony jokes upon one man.” + </p> + <p> + “It is no joke, but downright earnest,” said the bailiff. “Harkye, Mr. + Robin Ogg, or whatever is your name, it’s right we should tell you that we + are all of one opinion, and that is, that you, Mr. Robin Ogg, have behaved + to our friend Mr. Harry Wakefield here, like a raff and a blackguard.” + </p> + <p> + “Nae doubt, nae doubt,” answered Robin, with great composure; “and you are + a set of very pretty judges, for whose prains or pehaviour I wad not gie a + pinch of sneeshing. If Mr. Harry Waakfelt kens where he is wranged, he + kens where he may be righted.” + </p> + <p> + “He speaks truth,” said Wakefield, who had listened to what passed, + divided between the offence which he had taken at Robin’s late behaviour, + and the revival of his habitual feelings of regard. + </p> + <p> + He now rose, and went towards Robin, who got up from his seat as he + approached, and held out his hand. + </p> + <p> + “That’s right, Harry—go it—serve him out,” resounded on all + sides—“tip him the nailer—show him the mill.” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your peace all of you, and be—,” said Wakefield; and then + addressing his comrade, he took him by the extended hand, with something + alike of respect and defiance. “Robin,” he said, “thou hast used me ill + enough this day; but if you mean, like a frank fellow, to shake hands, and + take a tussle for love on the sod, why I’ll forgie thee, man, and we shall + be better friends than ever.” + </p> + <p> + “And would it not pe petter to pe cood friends without more of the + matter?” said Robin; “we will be much petter friendships with our panes + hale than proken.” + </p> + <p> + Harry Wakefield dropped the hand of his friend, or rather threw it from + him. + </p> + <p> + “I did not think I had been keeping company for three years with a + coward.” + </p> + <p> + “Coward pelongs to none of my name,” said Robin, whose eyes began to + kindle, but keeping the command of his temper. “It was no coward’s legs or + hands, Harry Waakfelt, that drew you out of the fords of Frew, when you + was drifting ower the plack rock, and every eel in the river expected his + share of you.” + </p> + <p> + “And that is true enough, too,” said the Englishman, struck by the appeal. + </p> + <p> + “Adzooks!” exclaimed the bailiff—“sure Harry Wakefield, the nattiest + lad at Whitson Tryste, Wooler Fair, Carlisle Sands, or Stagshaw Bank, is + not going to show white feather? Ah, this comes of living so long with + kilts and bonnets—men forget the use of their daddles.” + </p> + <p> + “I may teach you, Master Fleecebumpkin, that I have not lost the use of + mine,” said Wakefield and then went on. “This will never do, Robin. We + must have a turn-up, or we shall be the talk of the country-side. I’ll be + d—d if I hurt thee—I’ll put on the gloves gin thou like. Come, + stand forward like a man.” + </p> + <p> + “To be peaten like a dog,” said Robin; “is there any reason in that? If + you think I have done you wrong, I’ll go before your shudge, though I + neither know his law nor his language.” + </p> + <p> + A general cry of “No, no—no law, no lawyer! a bellyful and be + friends,” was echoed by the bystanders. + </p> + <p> + “But,” continued Robin, “if I am to fight, I have no skill to fight like a + jackanapes, with hands and nails.” + </p> + <p> + “How would you fight then?” said his antagonist; “though I am thinking it + would be hard to bring you to the scratch anyhow.” + </p> + <p> + “I would fight with proadswords, and sink point on the first plood drawn—like + a gentlemans.” + </p> + <p> + A loud shout of laughter followed the proposal, which indeed had rather + escaped from poor Robin’s swelling heart, than been the dictate of his + sober judgment. + </p> + <p> + “Gentleman, quotha!” was echoed on all sides, with a shout of + unextinguishable laughter; “a very pretty gentleman, God wot.—Canst + get two swords for the gentleman to fight with, Ralph Heskett?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but I can send to the armoury at Carlisle, and lend them two forks, + to be making shift with in the meantime.” + </p> + <p> + “Tush, man,” said another, “the bonny Scots come into the world with the + blue bonnet on their heads, and dirk and pistol at their belt.” + </p> + <p> + “Best send post,” said Mr. Fleecebumpkin, “to the Squire of Corby Castle, + to come and stand second to the GENTLEMAN.” + </p> + <p> + In the midst of this torrent of general ridicule, the Highlander + instinctively griped beneath the folds of his plaid, + </p> + <p> + “But it’s better not,” he said in his own language. “A hundred curses on + the swine-eaters, who know neither decency nor civility!” + </p> + <p> + “Make room, the pack of you,” he said, advancing to the door. + </p> + <p> + But his former friend interposed his sturdy bulk, and opposed his leaving + the house; and when Robin Oig attempted to make his way by force, he hit + him down on the floor, with as much ease as a boy bowls down a nine-pin. + </p> + <p> + “A ring, a ring!” was now shouted, until the dark rafters, and the hams + that hung on them, trembled again, and the very platters on the BINK + clattered against each other. “Well done, Harry”—“Give it him home, + Harry”—“Take care of him now—he sees his own blood!” + </p> + <p> + Such were the exclamations, while the Highlander, starting from the + ground, all his coldness and caution lost in frantic rage, sprung at his + antagonist with the fury, the activity, and the vindictive purpose of an + incensed tiger-cat. But when could rage encounter science and temper? + Robin Oig again went down in the unequal contest; and as the blow was + necessarily a severe one, he lay motionless on the floor of the kitchen. + The landlady ran to offer some aid, but Mr. Fleecebumpkin would not permit + her to approach. + </p> + <p> + “Let him alone,” he said, “he will come to within time, and come up to the + scratch again. He has not got half his broth yet.” + </p> + <p> + “He has got all I mean to give him, though,” said his antagonist, whose + heart began to relent towards his old associate; “and I would rather by + half give the rest to yourself, Mr. Fleecebumpkin, for you pretend to know + a thing or two, and Robin had not art enough even to peel before setting + to, but fought with his plaid dangling about him.—Stand up, Robin, + my man! All friends now; and let me hear the man that will speak a word + against you, or your country, for your sake.” + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig was still under the dominion of his passion, and eager to renew + the onset; but being withheld on the one side by the peacemaking Dame + Heskett, and on the other, aware that Wakefield no longer meant to renew + the combat, his fury sunk into gloomy sullenness. + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, never grudge so much at it, man,” said the brave-spirited + Englishman, with the placability of his country; “shake hands, and we will + be better friends than ever.” + </p> + <p> + “Friends!” exclaimed Robin Oig with strong emphasis—“friends! Never. + Look to yourself, Harry Waakfelt.” + </p> + <p> + “Then the curse of Cromwell on your proud Scots stomach, as the man says + in the play, and you may do your worst, and be d—d; for one man can + say nothing more to another after a tussle, than that he is sorry for it.” + </p> + <p> + On these terms the friends parted. Robin Oig drew out, in silence, a piece + of money, threw it on the table, and then left the alehouse. But turning + at the door, he shook his hand at Wakefield, pointing with his forefinger + upwards, in a manner which might imply either a threat or a caution. He + then disappeared in the moonlight. + </p> + <p> + Some words passed after his departure, between the bailiff, who piqued + himself on being a little of a bully, and Harry Wakefield, who, with + generous inconsistency, was now not indisposed to begin a new combat in + defence of Robin Oig’s reputation, “although he could not use his daddles + like an Englishman, as it did not come natural to him.” But Dame Heskett + prevented this second quarrel from coming to a head by her peremptory + interference. “There should be no more fighting in her house,” she said; + “there had been too much already.—And you, Mr. Wakefield, may live + to learn,” she added, “what it is to make a deadly enemy out of a good + friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Pshaw, dame! Robin Oig is an honest fellow, and will never keep malice.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not trust to that; you do not know the dour temper of the Scots, + though you have dealt with them so often. I have a right to know them, my + mother being a Scot.” + </p> + <p> + “And so is well seen on her daughter,” said Ralph Heskett. + </p> + <p> + This nuptial sarcasm gave the discourse another turn. Fresh customers + entered the tap-room or kitchen, and others left it. The conversation + turned on the expected markets, and the report of prices from different + parts both of Scotland and England. Treaties were commenced, and Harry + Wakefield was lucky enough to find a chap for a part of his drove, and at + a very considerable profit—an event of consequence more than + sufficient to blot out all remembrances of the unpleasant scuffle in the + earlier part of the day. But there remained one party from whose mind that + recollection could not have been wiped away by the possession of every + head of cattle betwixt Esk and Eden. + </p> + <p> + This was Robin Oig M’Combich. “That I should have had no weapon,” he said, + “and for the first time in my life! Blighted be the tongue that bids the + Highlander part with the dirk. The dirk—ha! the English blood! My + Muhme’s word! When did her word fall to the ground?” + </p> + <p> + The recollection of the fatal prophecy confirmed the deadly intention + which instantly sprang up in his mind. + </p> + <p> + “Ha! Morrison cannot be many miles behind; and if it were an hundred, what + then?” + </p> + <p> + His impetuous spirit had now a fixed purpose and motive of action, and he + turned the light foot of his country towards the wilds, through which he + knew, by Mr. Ireby’s report, that Morrison was advancing. His mind was + wholly engrossed by the sense of injury—injury sustained from a + friend; and by the desire of vengeance on one whom he now accounted his + most bitter enemy. The treasured ideas of self-importance and self-opinion—of + ideal birth and quality, had become more precious to him, (like the hoard + to the miser) because he could only enjoy them in secret. But that hoard + was pillaged—the idols which he had secretly worshipped had been + desecrated and profaned. Insulted, abused, and beaten, he was no longer + worthy, in his own opinion, of the name he bore, or the lineage which he + belonged to. Nothing was left to him—nothing but revenge; and as the + reflection added a galling spur to every step, he determined it should be + as sudden and signal as the offence. + </p> + <p> + When Robin Oig left the door of the alehouse, seven or eight English miles + at least lay betwixt Morrison and him. The advance of the former was slow, + limited by the sluggish pace of his cattle; the latter left behind him + stubble-field and hedgerow, crag and dark heath, all glittering with + frost-rime in the broad November moonlight, at the rate of six miles an + hour. And now the distant lowing of Morrison’s cattle is heard; and now + they are seen creeping like moles in size and slowness of motion on the + broad face of the moor; and now he meets them—passes them, and stops + their conductor. + </p> + <p> + “May good betide us,” said the Westlander. “Is this you, Robin M’Combich, + or your wraith?” + </p> + <p> + “It is Robin Oig M’Combich,” answered the Highlander, “and it is not. But + never mind that, put pe giving me the skene-dhu.” + </p> + <p> + “What! you are for back to the Highlands! The devil! Have you selt all off + before the fair? This beats all for quick markets!” + </p> + <p> + “I have not sold—I am not going north—maype I will never go + north again. Give me pack my dirk, Hugh Morrison, or there will pe words + petween us.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, Robin, I’ll be better advised before I gie it back to you; it is + a wanchancy weapon in a Highlandman’s hand, and I am thinking you will be + about some harns-breaking.” + </p> + <p> + “Prutt, trutt! let me have my weapon,” said Robin Oig impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “Hooly and fairly,” said his well-meaning friend. “I’ll tell you what will + do better than these dirking doings. Ye ken Highlander, and Lowlander, and + Border-men are a’ ae man’s bairns when you are over the Scots dyke. See, + the Eskdale callants, and fighting Charlie of Liddesdale, and the Lockerby + lads, and the four Dandies of Lustruther, and a wheen mair grey plaids, + are coming up behind; and if you are wranged, there is the hand of a Manly + Morrison, we’ll see you righted, if Carlisle and Stanwix baith took up the + feud.” + </p> + <p> + “To tell you the truth,” said Robin Oig, desirous of eluding the + suspicions of his friend, “I have enlisted with a party of the Black + Watch, and must march off to-morrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Enlisted! Were you mad or drunk? You must buy yourself off. I can lend + you twenty notes, and twenty to that, if the drove sell.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you—thank ye, Hughie; but I go with good-will the gate that + I am going. So the dirk, the dirk!” + </p> + <p> + “There it is for you then, since less wunna serve. But think on what I was + saying. Waes me, it will be sair news in the braes of Balquidder that + Robin Oig M’Combich should have run an ill gate, and ta’en on.” + </p> + <p> + “Ill news in Balquidder, indeed!” echoed poor Robin. “But Cot speed you, + Hughie, and send you good marcats. Ye winna meet with Robin Oig again, + either at tryste or fair.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he shook hastily the hand of his acquaintance, and set out in + the direction from which he had advanced, with the spirit of his former + pace. + </p> + <p> + “There is something wrang with the lad,” muttered the Morrison to himself; + “but we will maybe see better into it the morn’s morning.” + </p> + <p> + But long ere the morning dawned, the catastrophe of our tale had taken + place. It was two hours after the affray had happened, and it was totally + forgotten by almost every one, when Robin Oig returned to Heskett’s inn. + The place was filled at once by various sorts of men, and with noises + corresponding to their character. There were the grave low sounds of men + engaged in busy traffic, with the laugh, the song, and the riotous jest of + those who had nothing to do but to enjoy themselves. Among the last was + Harry Wakefield, who, amidst a grinning group of smock-frocks, hobnailed + shoes, and jolly English physiognomies, was trolling forth the old ditty,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “What though my name be Roger, + Who drives the plough and cart—” + </pre> + <p> + when he was interrupted by a well-known voice saying in a high and stern + voice, marked by the sharp Highland accent, “Harry Waakfelt—if you + be a man stand up!” + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?—what is it?” the guests demanded of each other. + </p> + <p> + “It is only a d—d Scotsman,” said Fleecebumpkin, who was by this + time very drunk, “whom Harry Wakefield helped to his broth to-day, who is + now come to have HIS CAULD KAIL het again.” + </p> + <p> + “Harry Waakfelt,” repeated the same ominous summons, “stand up, if you be + a man!” + </p> + <p> + There is something in the tone of deep and concentrated passion, which + attracts attention and imposes awe, even by the very sound. The guests + shrunk back on every side, and gazed at the Highlander as he stood in the + middle of them, his brows bent, and his features rigid with resolution. + </p> + <p> + “I will stand up with all my heart, Robin, my boy, but it shall be to + shake hands with you, and drink down all unkindness. It is not the fault + of your heart, man, that you don’t know how to clench your hands.” + </p> + <p> + By this time he stood opposite to his antagonist, his open and + unsuspecting look strangely contrasted with the stern purpose, which + gleamed wild, dark, and vindictive in the eyes of the Highlander. + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis not thy fault, man, that, not having the luck to be an Englishman, + thou canst not fight more than a school-girl.” + </p> + <p> + “I can fight,” answered Robin Oig sternly, but calmly, “and you shall know + it. You, Harry Waakfelt, showed me to-day how the Saxon churls fight; I + show you now how the Highland Dunnie-wassel fights.” + </p> + <p> + He seconded the word with the action, and plunged the dagger, which he + suddenly displayed, into the broad breast of the English yeoman, with such + fatal certainty and force that the hilt made a hollow sound against the + breast-bone, and the double-edged point split the very heart of his + victim. Harry Wakefield fell and expired with a single groan. His assassin + next seized the bailiff by the collar, and offered the bloody poniard to + his throat, whilst dread and surprise rendered the man incapable of + defence. + </p> + <p> + “It were very just to lay you peside him,” he said, “but the blood of a + pase pickthank shall never mix on my father’s dirk, with that of a brave + man.” + </p> + <p> + As he spoke, he cast the man from him with so much force that he fell on + the floor, while Robin, with his other hand, threw the fatal weapon into + the blazing turf-fire. + </p> + <p> + “There,” he said, “take me who likes—and let fire cleanse blood if + it can.” + </p> + <p> + The pause of astonishment still continuing, Robin Oig asked for a + peace-officer, and a constable having stepped out, he surrendered himself + to his custody. + </p> + <p> + “A bloody night’s work you have made of it,” said the constable. + </p> + <p> + “Your own fault,” said the Highlander. “Had you kept his hands off me twa + hours since, he would have been now as well and merry as he was twa + minutes since.” + </p> + <p> + “It must be sorely answered,” said the peace-officer. + </p> + <p> + “Never you mind that—death pays all debts; it will pay that too.” + </p> + <p> + The horror of the bystanders began now to give way to indignation, and the + sight of a favourite companion murdered in the midst of them, the + provocation being, in their opinion, so utterly inadequate to the excess + of vengeance, might have induced them to kill the perpetrator of the deed + even upon the very spot. The constable, however, did his duty on this + occasion, and with the assistance of some of the more reasonable persons + present, procured horses to guard the prisoner to Carlisle, to abide his + doom at the next assizes. While the escort was preparing, the prisoner + neither expressed the least interest, nor attempted the slightest reply. + Only, before he was carried from the fatal apartment, he desired to look + at the dead body, which, raised from the floor, had been deposited upon + the large table (at the head of which Harry Wakefield had presided but a + few minutes before, full of life, vigour, and animation), until the + surgeons should examine the mortal wound. The face of the corpse was + decently covered with a napkin. To the surprise and horror of the + bystanders, which displayed itself in a general AH! drawn through clenched + teeth and half-shut lips, Robin Oig removed the cloth, and gazed with a + mournful but steady eye on the lifeless visage, which had been so lately + animated that the smile of good-humoured confidence in his own strength, + of conciliation at once and contempt towards his enemy, still curled his + lip. While those present expected that the wound, which had so lately + flooded the apartment with gore, would send forth fresh streams at the + touch of the homicide, Robin Oig replaced the covering with the brief + exclamation, “He was a pretty man!” + </p> + <p> + My story is nearly ended. The unfortunate Highlander stood his trial at + Carlisle. I was myself present, and as a young Scottish lawyer, or + barrister at least, and reputed a man of some quality, the politeness of + the Sheriff of Cumberland offered me a place on the bench. The facts of + the case were proved in the manner I have related them; and whatever might + be at first the prejudice of the audience against a crime so un-English as + that of assassination from revenge, yet when the rooted national + prejudices of the prisoner had been explained, which made him consider + himself as stained with indelible dishonour, when subjected to personal + violence—when his previous patience, moderation, and endurance were + considered—the generosity of the English audience was inclined to + regard his crime as the wayward aberration of a false idea of honour + rather than as flowing from a heart naturally savage, or perverted by + habitual vice. I shall never forget the charge of the venerable judge to + the jury, although not at that time liable to be much affected either by + that which was eloquent or pathetic. + </p> + <p> + “We have had,” he said, “in the previous part of our duty” (alluding to + some former trials), “to discuss crimes which infer disgust and + abhorrence, while they call down the well-merited vengeance of the law. It + is now our still more melancholy task to apply its salutary though severe + enactments to a case of a very singular character, in which the crime (for + a crime it is, and a deep one) arose less out of the malevolence of the + heart, than the error of the understanding—less from any idea of + committing wrong, than from an unhappily perverted notion of that which is + right. Here we have two men, highly esteemed, it has been stated, in their + rank of life, and attached, it seems, to each other as friends, one of + whose lives has been already sacrificed to a punctilio, and the other is + about to prove the vengeance of the offended laws; and yet both may claim + our commiseration at least, as men acting in ignorance of each other’s + national prejudices, and unhappily misguided rather than voluntarily + erring from the path of right conduct. + </p> + <p> + “In the original cause of the misunderstanding, we must in justice give + the right to the prisoner at the bar. He had acquired possession of the + enclosure, which was the object of competition, by a legal contract with + the proprietor, Mr. Ireby; and yet, when accosted with reproaches + undeserved in themselves, and galling, doubtless, to a temper at least + sufficiently susceptible of passion, he offered notwithstanding, to yield + up half his acquisition, for the sake of peace and good neighbourhood, and + his amicable proposal was rejected with scorn. Then follows the scene at + Mr. Heskett the publican’s, and you will observe how the stranger was + treated by the deceased, and, I am sorry to observe, by those around, who + seem to have urged him in a manner which was aggravating in the highest + degree. While he asked for peace and for composition, and offered + submission to a magistrate, or to a mutual arbiter, the prisoner was + insulted by a whole company, who seem on this occasion to have forgotten + the national maxim of ‘fair play;’ and while attempting to escape from the + place in peace, he was intercepted, struck down, and beaten to the + effusion of his blood. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen of the jury, it was with some impatience that I heard my + learned brother who opened the case for the crown give an unfavourable + turn to the prisoner’s conduct on this occasion. He said the prisoner was + afraid to encounter his antagonist in fair fight, or to submit to the laws + of the ring; and that therefore, like a cowardly Italian, he had recourse + to his fatal stiletto, to murder the man whom he dared not meet in manly + encounter. I observed the prisoner shrink from this part of the accusation + with the abhorrence natural to a brave man; and as I would wish to make my + words impressive when I point his real crime, I must secure his opinion of + my impartiality by rebutting everything that seems to me a false + accusation. There can be no doubt that the prisoner is a man of resolution—too + much resolution. I wish to Heaven that he had less—or, rather that + he had had a better education to regulate it. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen, as to the laws my brother talks of, they may be known in the + bull-ring, or the bear-garden, or the cock-pit, but they are not known + here. Or, if they should be so far admitted as furnishing a species of + proof that no malice was intended in this sort of combat, from which fatal + accidents do sometimes arise, it can only be so admitted when both parties + are IN PARI CASU, equally acquainted with, and equally willing to refer + themselves to, that species of arbitrament. But will it be contended that + a man of superior rank and education is to be subjected, or is obliged to + subject himself, to this coarse and brutal strife, perhaps in opposition + to a younger, stronger, or more skilful opponent? Certainly even the + pugilistic code, if founded upon the fair play of Merry Old England, as my + brother alleges it to be, can contain nothing so preposterous. And, + gentlemen of the jury, if the laws would support an English gentleman, + wearing, we will suppose, his sword, in defending himself by force against + a violent personal aggression of the nature offered to this prisoner, they + will not less protect a foreigner and a stranger, involved in the same + unpleasing circumstances. If, therefore, gentlemen of the jury, when thus + pressed by a VIS MAJOR, the object of obloquy to a whole company, and of + direct violence from one at least, and, as he might reasonably apprehend, + from more, the panel had produced the weapon which his countrymen, as we + are informed, generally carry about their persons, and the same unhappy + circumstance had ensued which you have heard detailed in evidence, I could + not in my conscience have asked from you a verdict of murder. The + prisoner’s personal defence might indeed, even in that case, have gone + more or less beyond the MODERAMEN INCULPATAE TUTELAE, spoken of by + lawyers; but the punishment incurred would have been that of manslaughter, + not of murder. I beg leave to add that I should have thought this milder + species of charge was demanded in the case supposed, notwithstanding the + statute of James I. cap. 8, which takes the case of slaughter by stabbing + with a short weapon, even without MALICE PREPENSE, out of the benefit of + clergy. For this statute of stabbing, as it is termed, arose out of a + temporary cause; and as the real guilt is the same, whether the slaughter + be committed by the dagger, or by sword or pistol, the benignity of the + modern law places them all on the same, or nearly the same, footing. + </p> + <p> + “But, gentlemen of the jury, the pinch of the case lies in the interval of + two hours interposed betwixt the reception of the injury and the fatal + retaliation. In the heat of affray and CHAUDE MELEE, law, compassionating + the infirmities of humanity, makes allowance for the passions which rule + such a stormy moment—for the sense of present pain, for the + apprehension of further injury, for the difficulty of ascertaining with + due accuracy the precise degree of violence which is necessary to protect + the person of the individual, without annoying or injuring the assailant + more than is absolutely necessary. But the time necessary to walk twelve + miles, however speedily performed, was an interval sufficient for the + prisoner to have recollected himself; and the violence with which he + carried his purpose into effect, with so many circumstances of deliberate + determination, could neither be induced by the passion of anger, nor that + of fear. It was the purpose and the act of predetermined revenge, for + which law neither can, will, nor ought to have sympathy or allowance. + </p> + <p> + “It is true, we may repeat to ourselves, in alleviation of this poor man’s + unhappy action, that his case is a very peculiar one. The country which he + inhabits was, in the days of many now alive, inaccessible to the laws, not + only of England, which have not even yet penetrated thither, but to those + to which our neighbours of Scotland are subjected, and which must be + supposed to be, and no doubt actually are, founded upon the general + principles of justice and equity which pervade every civilized country. + Amongst their mountains, as among the North American Indians, the various + tribes were wont to make war upon each other, so that each man was obliged + to go armed for his own protection. These men, from the ideas which they + entertained of their own descent and of their own consequence, regarded + themselves as so many cavaliers or men-at-arms, rather than as the + peasantry of a peaceful country. Those laws of the ring, as my brother + terms them, were unknown to the race of warlike mountaineers; that + decision of quarrels by no other weapons than those which nature has given + every man must to them have seemed as vulgar and as preposterous as to the + NOBLESSE of France. Revenge, on the other hand, must have been as familiar + to their habits of society as to those of the Cherokees or Mohawks. It is + indeed, as described by Bacon, at bottom a kind of wild untutored justice; + for the fear of retaliation must withhold the hands of the oppressor where + there is no regular law to check daring violence. But though all this may + be granted, and though we may allow that, such having been the case of the + Highlands in the days of the prisoner’s fathers, many of the opinions and + sentiments must still continue to influence the present generation, it + cannot, and ought not, even in this most painful case, to alter the + administration of the law, either in your hands, gentlemen of the jury, or + in mine. The first object of civilisation is to place the general + protection of the law, equally administered, in the room of that wild + justice which every man cut and carved for himself, according to the + length of his sword and the strength of his arm. The law says to the + subjects, with a voice only inferior to that of the Deity, ‘Vengeance is + mine.’ The instant that there is time for passion to cool, and reason to + interpose, an injured party must become aware that the law assumes the + exclusive cognisance of the right and wrong betwixt the parties, and + opposes her inviolable buckler to every attempt of the private party to + right himself. I repeat that this unhappy man ought personally to be the + object rather of our pity than our abhorrence, for he failed in his + ignorance, and from mistaken notions of honour. But his crime is not the + less that of murder, gentlemen, and, in your high and important office, it + is your duty so to find. Englishmen have their angry passions as well as + Scots; and should this man’s action remain unpunished, you may unsheath, + under various pretences, a thousand daggers betwixt the Land’s-End and the + Orkneys.” + </p> + <p> + The venerable Judge thus ended what, to judge by his apparent emotion, and + by the tears which filled his eyes, was really a painful task. The jury, + according to his instructions, brought in a verdict of Guilty; and Robin + Oig M’Combich, ALIAS McGregor, was sentenced to death, and left for + execution, which took place accordingly. He met his fate with great + firmness, and acknowledged the justice of his sentence. But he repelled + indignantly the observations of those who accused him of attacking an + unarmed man. “I give a life for the life I took,” he said, “and what can I + do more?” [See Note 11.—Robert Donn’s Poems.] + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_NOTE1" id="link2H_NOTE1"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + NOTES. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2H_NOTE2" id="link2H_NOTE2"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + NOTES TO CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE. + </h2> + <h3> + Note 1.—HOLYROOD. + </h3> + <p> + The reader may be gratified with Hector Boece’s narrative of the original + foundation of the famous abbey of Holyrood, or the Holy Cross, as given in + Bellenden’s translation:— + </p> + <p> + “Eftir death of Alexander the first, his brothir David come out of + Ingland, and wes crownit at Scone, the yeir of God MCXXIV yeiris, and did + gret justice, eftir his coronation, in all partis of his realme. He had na + weris during the time of King Hary; and wes so pietuous, that he sat + daylie in judgement, to caus his pure commonis to have justice; and causit + the actionis of his noblis to be decidit be his othir jugis. He gart ilk + juge redres the skaithis that come to the party be his wrang sentence; + throw quhilk, he decorit his realm with mony nobil actis, and ejeckit the + vennomus custome of riotus cheir, quhilk wes inducit afore be Inglismen, + quhen thay com with Quene Margaret; for the samin wes noisum to al gud + maneris, makand his pepil tender and effeminat. + </p> + <p> + “In the fourt yeir of his regne, this nobill prince come to visie the + madin Castell of Edinburgh. At this time, all the boundis of Scotland were + ful of woddis, lesouris, and medois; for the countre wes more gevin to + store of bestiall, than ony productioun of cornis; and about this castell + was ane gret forest, full of haris, hindis, toddis, and siclike maner of + beistis. Now was the Rude Day cumin, called the Exaltation of the Croce; + and, becaus the samin wes ane hie solempne day, the king past to his + contemplation. Eftir the messis wer done with maist solempnitie and + reverence, comperit afore him mony young and insolent baronis of Scotland, + richt desirus to haif sum plesur and solace, be chace of hundis in the + said forest. At this time wes with the king ane man of singulare and + devoit life, namit Alkwine, channon eftir the ordour of Sanct Augustine, + quhilk well lang time confessoure, afore, to King David in Ingland, the + time that he wes Erle of Huntingtoun and Northumbirland. This religious + man dissuadit the king, be mony reasonis, to pas to this huntis; and + allegit the day wes so solempne, be reverence of the haly croce, that he + suld gif him erar, for that day, to contemplation, than ony othir + exersition. Nochtheles, his dissuasion is litill avalit; for the king wes + finallie so provokit, be inoportune solicitatioun of his baronis, that he + past, nochtwithstanding the solempnite of this day, to his hountis. At + last, quhen he wes cumin throw the vail that lyis to the gret eist fra the + said castell, quhare now lyis the Canongait, the staik past throw the wod + with sic noyis and din of rachis and bugillis, that all the bestis were + rasit fra thair dennis. Now wes the king cumin to the fute of the crag, + and all his nobilis severit, heir and thair, fra him, at thair game and + solace; quhen suddenlie apperit to his sicht the fairist hart that evir + wes sene afore with levand creature. The noyis and din of this hart + rinnand, as apperit, with awful and braid tindis, maid the kingis hors so + effrayit, that na renzeis micht hald him, bot ran, perforce, ouir mire and + mossis, away with the king. Nochtheles, the hart followit so fast, that he + dang baith the king and his hors to the ground. Than the king kest abak + his handis betwix the tindis of this hart, to haif savit him fra the strak + thairof; and the haly croce slaid, incontinent, in his handis. The hart + fled away with gret violence, and evanist in the same place quhare now + springis the Rude Well. The pepil richt affrayitly, returnit to him out of + all partis of the wod, to comfort him efter his trubill; and fell on + kneis, devotly adoring the haly croce; for it was not cumin but sum + hevinly providence, as weill apperis; for thair is na man can schaw of + quhat mater it is of, metal or tre. Sone eftir, the king returnit to his + castell; and in the nicht following, he was admonist, be ane vision in his + sleip, to big ane abbay of channonis regular in the same place quhare he + gat the croce. Als sone as he was awalkinnit, he schew his visione to + Alkwine, his confessoure; and he na thing suspended his gud mind, bot erar + inflammit him with maist fervent devotion thairto. The king, incontinent, + send his traist servandis in France and Flanderis, and brocht richt crafty + masonis to big this abbay; syne dedicat it in the honour of this haly + croce. The croce remanit continewally in the said abbay, to the time of + King David Bruce; quhilk was unhappily tane with it at Durame, quhare it + is haldin yit in gret veneration.”—BOECE, BOOK 12, CH. 16. + </p> + <p> + It is by no means clear what Scottish prince first built a palace, + properly so called, in the precincts of this renowned seat of sanctity. + The abbey, endowed by successive sovereigns and many powerful nobles with + munificent gifts of lands and tithes, came, in process of time, to be one + of the most important of the ecclesiastical corporations of Scotland; and + as early as the days of Robert Bruce, parliaments were held occasionally + within its buildings. We have evidence that James IV. had a royal lodging + adjoining to the cloister; but it is generally agreed that the first + considerable edifice for the accommodation of the royal family erected + here was that of James V., anno 1525, great part of which still remains, + and forms the north-western side of the existing palace. The more modern + buildings which complete the quadrangle were erected by King Charles II. + The name of the old conventual church was used as the parish church of the + Canongate from the period of the Reformation, until James II. claimed it + for his chapel royal, and had it fitted up accordingly in a style of + splendour which grievously outraged the feelings of his Presbyterian + subjects. The roof of this fragment of a once magnificent church fell in + in the year 1768, and it has remained ever since in a state of desolation. + For fuller particulars, see the PROVINCIAL ANTIQUITIES OF SCOTLAND, or the + HISTORY OF HOLYROOD, BY MR. CHARLES MACKIE. + </p> + <p> + The greater part of this ancient palace is now again occupied by his + Majesty Charles the Tenth of France, and the rest of that illustrious + family, which, in former ages so closely connected by marriage and + alliance with the house of Stewart, seems to have been destined to run a + similar career of misfortune. REQUIESCANT IN PACE! + </p> + <p> + Note 2.—STEELE, A COVENANTER, SHOT BY CAPTAIN CREICHTON. + </p> + <p> + The following extract from Swift’s Life of Creichton gives the particulars + of the bloody scene alluded to in the text:— + </p> + <p> + “Having drank hard one night, I (Creichton) dreamed that I had found + Captain David Steele, a notorious rebel, in one of the five farmers’ + houses on a mountain in the shire of Clydesdale, and parish of Lismahago, + within eight miles of Hamilton, a place that I was well acquainted with. + This man was head of the rebels since the affair of Airs-Moss, having + succeeded to Hackston, who had been there taken, and afterward hanged, as + the reader has already heard; for, as to Robert Hamilton, who was then + Commander-in-chief at Bothwell Bridge, he appeared no more among them, but + fled, as it was believed, to Holland. + </p> + <p> + “Steele, and his father before him, held a farm in the estate of Hamilton, + within two or three miles of that town. When he betook himself to arms, + the farm lay waste, and the Duke could find no other person who would + venture to take it; whereupon his Grace sent several messages to Steele, + to know the reason why he kept the farm waste. The Duke received no other + answer than that he would keep it waste, in spite of him and the king too; + whereupon his Grace, at whose table I had always the honour to be a + welcome guest, desired I would use my endeavours to destroy that rogue, + and I would oblige him for ever.” + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + “I return to my story. When I awaked out of my dream, as I had done before + in the affair of Wilson (and I desire the same apology I made in the + introduction to these Memoirs may serve for both), I presently rose, and + ordered thirty-six dragoons to be at the place appointed by break of day. + When we arrived thither, I sent a party to each of the five farmers’ + houses. This villain Steele had murdered above forty of the king’s + subjects in cold blood, and, as I was informed, had often laid snares to + entrap me; but it happened that, although he usually kept a gang to attend + him, yet at this time he had none, when he stood in the greatest need. One + of the party found him in one of the farmers’ houses, just as I happened + to dream. The dragoons first searched all the rooms below without success, + till two of them hearing somebody stirring over their heads, went up a + pair of turnpike stairs. Steele had put on his clothes while the search + was making below; the chamber where he lay was called the Chamber of + Deese, [Or chamber of state; so called from the DAIS, or canopy and + elevation of floor, which distinguished the part of old halls which was + occupied by those of high rank. Hence the phrase was obliquely used to + signify state in general.] which is the name given to a room where the + laird lies when he comes to a tenant’s house. Steele suddenly opening the + door, fired a blunderbuss down at the two dragoons, as they were coming up + the stairs; but the bullets grazing against the side of the turnpike, only + wounded, and did not kill them. Then Steele violently threw himself down + the stairs among them, and made towards the door to save his life, but + lost it upon the spot; for the dragoons who guarded the house dispatched + him with their broadswords. I was not with the party when he was killed, + being at that time employed in searching one of the other houses, but I + soon found what had happened, by hearing the noise of the shot made with + the blunderbuss; from whence I returned straight to Lanark, and + immediately sent one of the dragoons express to General Drummond at + Edinburgh.”—SWIFT’S WORKS, VOL.XII. (MEMOIRS OF CAPTAIN JOHN + CREICHTON), pages 57-59, Edit. Edinb. 1824. + </p> + <p> + Woodrow gives a different account of this exploit:—“In December this + year, (1686), David Steil, in the parish of Lismahagow, was surprised in + the fields by Lieutenant Creichton, and after his surrender of himself on + quarters, he was in a very little time most barbarously shot, and lies + buried in the churchyard there.” + </p> + <p> + Note 3.—IRON RASP. + </p> + <p> + The ingenious Mr. R. CHAMBERS’S Traditions of Edinburgh give the following + account of the forgotten rasp or risp:— + </p> + <p> + “This house had a PIN or RISP at the door, instead of the more modern + convenience—a knocker. The pin, rendered interesting by the figure + which it makes in Scottish song, was formed of a small rod of iron, + twisted or notched, which was placed perpendicularly, starting out a + little from the door, and bore a small ring of the same metal, which an + applicant for admittance drew rapidly up and down the NICKS, so as to + produce a grating sound. Sometimes the rod was simply stretched across the + VIZZYING hole, a convenient aperture through which the porter could take + cognisance of the person applying; in which case it acted also as a + stanchion. These were almost all disused about sixty years ago, when + knockers were generally substituted as more genteel. But knockers at that + time did not long remain in repute, though they have never been altogether + superseded, even by bells, in the Old Town. The comparative merit of + knockers and pins was for a long time a subject of doubt, and many + knockers got their heads twisted off in the course of the dispute.”—CHAMBERS’S + TRADITIONS OF EDINBURGH. + </p> + <p> + Note 4.—COUNTESS OF EGLINTON. + </p> + <p> + Susannah Kennedy, daughter of Sir Archibald Kennedy of Cullean, Bart., by + Elizabeth Lesly, daughter of David Lord Newark, third wife of Alexander + 9th Earl of Eglinton, and mother of the 10th and 11th Earls. She survived + her husband, who died 1729, no less than fifty-seven years, and died March + 1780, in her ninety-first year. Allan Ramsay’s Gentle Shepherd, published + 1726, is dedicated to her, in verse, by Hamilton of Bangour. + </p> + <p> + The following account of this distinguished lady is taken from Boswell’s + Life of Johnson by Mr. Croker:— + </p> + <p> + “Lady Margaret Dalrymple, only daughter of John, Earl of Stair, married in + 1700, to Hugh, third Earl of Loudoun. She died in 1777, aged ONE HUNDRED. + Of this venerable lady, and of the Countess of Eglintoune, whom Johnson + visited next day, he thus speaks in his JOURNEY:—‘Length of life is + distributed impartially to very different modes of life, in very different + climates; and the mountains have no greater examples of age than the + Lowlands, where I was introduced to two ladies of high quality, one of + whom (Lady Loudoun) in her ninety-fourth year, presided at her table with + the full exercise of all her powers, and the other (Lady Eglintoun) had + attained her eighty-fourth year, without any diminution of her vivacity, + and little reason to accuse time of depredations on her beauty.’” + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + “Lady Eglintoune, though she was now in her eighty-fifth year, and had + lived in the retirement of the country for almost half a century, was + still a very agreeable woman. She was of the noble house of Kennedy, and + had all the elevation which the consciousness of such birth inspires. Her + figure was majestic, her manners high-bred, her reading extensive, and her + conversation elegant. She had been the admiration of the gay circles of + life, and the patroness of poets. Dr. Johnson was delighted with his + reception here. Her principles in church and state were congenial with + his. She knew all his merit, and had heard much of him from her son, Earl + Alexander, who loved to cultivate the acquaintance of men of talents in + every department.” + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + “In the course of our conversation this day, it came out that Lady + Eglintoune was married the year before Dr. Johnson was born; upon which + she graciously said to him, that she might have been his mother, and that + she now adopted him, and when we were going away, she embraced him, + saying, ‘My dear son, farewell!’ My friend was much pleased with this + day’s entertainment, and owned that I had done well to force him out.” + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + “At Sir Alexander Dick’s, from that absence of mind to which every man is + at times subject, I told, in a blundering manner, Lady Eglintoune’s + complimentary adoption of Dr. Johnson as her son; for I unfortunately + stated that her ladyship adopted him as her son, in consequence of her + having been married the year AFTER he was born. Dr. Johnson instantly + corrected me. ‘Sir, don’t you perceive that you are defaming the Countess? + For, supposing me to be her son, and that she was not married till the + year after my birth, I must have been her NATURAL son.’ A young lady of + quality who was present very handsomely said, ‘Might not the son have + justified the fault?’ My friend was much flattered by this compliment, + which he never forgot. When in more than ordinary spirits, and talking of + his journey in Scotland, he has called to me, ‘Boswell, what was it that + the young lady of quality said of me at Sir Alexander Dick’s?’ Nobody will + doubt that I was happy in repeating it.” + </p> + <p> + Note 5.—EARL OF WINTON. + </p> + <p> + The incident here alluded to is thus narrated in Nichols’ Progresses of + James I., Vol.III. p.306:— + </p> + <p> + “The family” (of Winton) “owed its first elevation to the union of Sir + Christopher Seton with a sister of King Robert Bruce. With King James VI. + they acquired great favour, who, having created his brother Earl of + Dunfermline in 1599, made Robert, seventh Lord Seton, Earl of Winton in + 1600. Before the King’s accession to the English throne, his Majesty and + the Queen were frequently at Seton, where the Earl kept a very hospitable + table, at which all foreigners of quality were entertained on their visits + to Scotland. His Lordship died in 1603, and was buried on the 5th of + April, on the very day the King left Edinburgh for England. His Majesty, + we are told, was pleased to rest himself at the south-west round of the + orchard of Seton, on the highway, till the funeral was over, that he might + not withdraw the noble company; and he said that he had lost a good, + faithful, and loyal subject.”—NICHOLS’ PROGRESSES OF K. JAMES I., + VOL.III. p.306. + </p> + <p> + Note 6.—MACGREGOR OF GLENSTRAE. + </p> + <p> + “The 2 of Octr: (1603) Allaster MacGregor of Glenstrae tane be the laird + Arkynles, bot escapit againe; bot after taken be the Earle of Argyll the 4 + of Januarii, and brought to Edr: the 9 of Januar: 1604, wt: 18 mae of hes + friendes MacGregors. He wes convoyit to Berwick be the gaird, conform to + the Earle’s promes; for he promesit to put him out of Scottis grund: Sua, + he keipit an Hielandman’s promes, in respect he sent the gaird to convoy + him out of Scottis grund; bot yai wer not directit to pairt wt: him, bot + to fetche him bak againe. The 18 of Januar, he came at evin againe to + Edinburghe; and upone the 20 day, he was hangit at the crosse, and ij of + his freindes and name, upon ane gallows: himself being chieff, he was + hangit his awin hight above the rest of hes freindis.”—BIRRELL’S + DIARY, (IN DALZELL’S FRAGMENTS OF SCOTTISH HISTORY),pp.60,61. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_NOTE3" id="link2H_NOTE3"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + NOTES TO THE HIGHLAND WIDOW. + </h2> + <h3> + Note 7.—LOCH AWE. + </h3> + <p> + “Loch Awe, upon the banks of which the scene of action took place, is + thirty-four miles in length. The north side is bounded by wide muirs and + inconsiderable hills, which occupy an extent of country from twelve to + twenty miles in breadth, and the whole of this space is enclosed as by + circumvallation. Upon the north it is barred by Loch Eitive, on the south + by Loch Awe, and on the east by the dreadful pass of Brandir, through + which an arm of the latter lake opens, at about four miles from its + eastern extremity, and discharges the river Awe into the former. The pass + is about three miles in length; its east side is bounded by the almost + inaccessible steeps which form the base of the vast and rugged mountain of + Cruachan. The crags rise in some places almost perpendicularly from the + water, and for their chief extent show no space nor level at their feet, + but a rough and narrow edge of stony beach. Upon the whole of these cliffs + grows a thick and interwoven wood of all kinds of trees, both timber, + dwarf, and coppice; no track existed through the wilderness, but a winding + path, which sometimes crept along the precipitous height, and sometimes + descended in a straight pass along the margin of the water. Near the + extremity of the defile, a narrow level opened between the water and the + crag; but a great part of this, as well as of the preceding steeps, was + formerly enveloped in a thicket, which showed little facility to the feet + of any but the martens and wild cats. Along the west side of the pass lies + a wall of sheer and barren crags. From behind they rise in rough, uneven, + and heathy declivities, out of the wide muir before mentioned, between + Loch Eitive and Loch Awe; but in front they terminate abruptly in the most + frightful precipices, which form the whole side of the pass, and descend + at one fall into the water which fills its trough. At the north end of the + barrier, and at the termination of the pass, lies that part of the cliff + which is called Craiganuni; at its foot the arm of the lake gradually + contracts its water to a very narrow space, and at length terminates at + two rocks (called the Rocks of Brandir), which form a strait channel, + something resembling the lock of a canal. From this outlet there is a + continual descent towards Loch Eitive, and from hence the river Awe pours + out its current in a furious stream, foaming over a bed broken with holes, + and cumbered with masses of granite and whinstone. + </p> + <p> + “If ever there was a bridge near Craiganuni in ancient times, it must have + been at the Rocks of Brandir. From the days of Wallace to those of General + Wade, there were never passages of this kind but in places of great + necessity, too narrow for a boat, and too wide for a leap; even then they + were but an unsafe footway formed of the trunks of trees placed + transversely from rock to rock, unstripped of their bark, and destitute of + either plank or rail. For such a structure there is no place in the + neighbourhood of Craiganuni but at the rocks above mentioned. In the lake + and on the river the water is far too wide; but at the strait the space is + not greater than might be crossed by a tall mountain pine, and the rocks + on either side are formed by nature like a pier. That this point was + always a place of passage is rendered probable by its facility and the use + of recent times. It is not long since it was the common gate of the + country on either side the river and the pass: the mode of crossing is yet + in the memory of people living, and was performed by a little currach + moored on either side the water, and a stout cable fixed across the stream + from bank to bank, by which the passengers drew themselves across in the + manner still practised in places of the same nature. It is no argument + against the existence of a bridge in former times that the above method + only existed in ours, rather than a passage of that kind, which would seem + the more improved expedient. The contradiction is sufficiently accounted + for by the decay of timber in the neighbourhood. Of old, both oaks and + firs of an immense size abounded within a very inconsiderable distance; + but it is now many years since the destruction of the forests of Glen + Eitive and Glen Urcha has deprived the country of all the trees of + sufficient size to cross the strait of Brandir; and it is probable that + the currach was not introduced till the want of timber had disenabled the + inhabitants of the country from maintaining a bridge. It only further + remains to be noticed that at some distance below the Rocks of Brandir + there was formerly a ford, which was used for cattle in the memory of + people living; from the narrowness of the passage, the force of the + stream, and the broken bed of the river, it was, however, a dangerous + pass, and could only be attempted with safety at leisure and by + experience.”— NOTES TO THE BRIDAL OF CAOLCHAIRN. + </p> + <p> + Note 8.—BATTLE BETWIXT THE ARMIES OF THE BRUCE AND MACDOUGAL OF + LORN. + </p> + <p> + “But the King, whose dear-bought experience in war had taught him extreme + caution, remained in the Braes of Balquhidder till he had acquired by his + spies and outskirries a perfect knowledge of the disposition of the army + of Lorn, and the intention of its leader. He then divided his force into + two columns, entrusting the command of the first, in which he placed his + archers and lightest armed troops, to Sir James Douglas, whilst he himself + took the leading of the other, which consisted principally of his knights + and barons. On approaching the defile, Bruce dispatched Sir James Douglas + by a pathway which the enemy had neglected to occupy, with directions to + advance silently, and gain the heights above and in front of the hilly + ground where the men of Lorn were concealed; and having ascertained that + this movement had been executed with success, he put himself at the head + of his own division, and fearlessly led his men into the defile. Here, + prepared as he was for what was to take place, it was difficult to prevent + a temporary panic when the yell which, to this day, invariably precedes + the assault of the mountaineer, burst from the rugged bosom of Ben + Cruachan; and the woods which, the moment before, had waved in silence and + solitude, gave forth their birth of steel-clad warriors, and, in an + instant, became instinct with the dreadful vitality of war. But although + appalled and checked for a brief space by the suddenness of the assault, + and the masses of rock which the enemy rolled down from the precipices, + Bruce, at the head of his division, pressed up the side of the mountain. + Whilst this party assaulted the men of Lorn with the utmost fury, Sir + James Douglas and his party shouted suddenly upon the heights in their + front, showering down their arrows upon them; and, when these missiles + were exhausted, attacking them with their swords and battle-axes. The + consequence of such an attack, both in front and rear, was the total + discomfiture of the army of Lorn; and the circumstances to which this + chief had so confidently looked forward, as rendering the destruction of + Bruce almost inevitable, were now turned with fatal effect against + himself. His great superiority of numbers cumbered and impeded his + movements. Thrust by the double assault, and by the peculiar nature of the + ground, into such narrow room as the pass afforded, and driven to fury by + finding themselves cut to pieces in detail, without power of resistance, + the men of Lorn fled towards Loch Eitive, where a bridge thrown over the + Awe, and supported upon two immense rocks, known by the name of the Rocks + of Brandir, formed the solitary communication between the side of the + river where the battle took place and the country of Lorn. Their object + was to gain the bridge, which was composed entirely of wood, and having + availed themselves of it in their retreat, to destroy it, and thus throw + the impassable torrent of the Awe between them and their enemies. But + their intention was instantly detected by Douglas, who, rushing down from + the high grounds at the head of his archers and light-armed foresters, + attacked the body of the mountaineers, which had occupied the bridge, and + drove them from it with great slaughter, so that Bruce and his division, + on coming up, passed it without molestation; and this last resource being + taken from them, the army of Lorn were, in a few hours, literally cut to + pieces, whilst their chief, who occupied Loch Eitive with his fleet, saw, + from his ships, the discomfiture of his men, and found it impossible to + give them the least assistance.”—TYTLER’S LIFE OF BRUCE. + </p> + <p> + Note 9.—MASSACRE OF GLENCOE. + </p> + <p> + The following succinct account of this too celebrated event, may be + sufficient for this place:— + </p> + <p> + “In the beginning of the year 1692 an action of unexampled barbarity + disgraced the government of King William III. in Scotland. In the August + preceding, a proclamation had been issued, offering an indemnity to such + insurgents as should take the oaths to the King and Queen, on or before + the last day of December; and the chiefs of such tribes, as had been in + arms for James, soon after took advantage of the proclamation. But + Macdonald of Glencoe was prevented by accident, rather than design, from + tendering his submission within the limited time. In the end of December + he went to Colonel Hill, who commanded the garrison in Fort William, to + take the oaths of allegiance to the government; and the latter having + furnished him with a letter to Sir Colin Campbell, Sheriff of the county + of Argyll, directed him to repair immediately to Inverary, to make his + submission in a legal manner before that magistrate. But the way to + Inverary lay through almost impassable mountains, the season was extremely + rigorous, and the whole country was covered with a deep snow. So eager, + however, was Macdonald to take the oaths before the limited time should + expire, that, though the road lay within half a mile of his own house, he + stopped not to visit his family, and, after various obstructions, arrived + at Inverary. The time had elapsed, and the sheriff hesitated to receive + his submission; but Macdonald prevailed by his importunities, and even + tears, in inducing that functionary to administer to him the oath of + allegiance, and to certify the cause of his delay. At this time Sir John + Dalrymple, afterwards Earl of Stair, being in attendance upon William as + Secretary of State for Scotland, took advantage of Macdonald’s neglecting + to take the oath within the time prescribed, and procured from the King a + warrant of military execution against that chief and his whole clan. This + was done at the instigation of the Earl of Breadalbane, whose lands the + Glencoe men had plundered, and whose treachery to government in + negotiating with the Highland clans Macdonald himself had exposed. The + King was accordingly persuaded that Glencoe was the main obstacle to the + pacification of the Highlands; and the fact of the unfortunate chief’s + submission having been concealed, the sanguinary orders for proceeding to + military execution against his clan were in consequence obtained. The + warrant was both signed and countersigned by the King’s own hand, and the + Secretary urged the officers who commanded in the Highlands to execute + their orders with the utmost rigour. Campbell of Glenlyon, a captain in + Argyll’s regiment, and two subalterns, were ordered to repair to Glencoe + on the first of February with a hundred and twenty men. Campbell being + uncle to young Macdonald’s wife, was received by the father with all + manner of friendship and hospitality. The men were lodged at free quarters + in the houses of his tenants, and received the kindest entertainment. Till + the 13th of the month the troops lived in the utmost harmony and + familiarity with the people, and on the very night of the massacre the + officers passed the evening at cards in Macdonald’s house. In the night + Lieutenant Lindsay, with a party of soldiers, called in a friendly manner + at his door, and was instantly admitted. Macdonald, while in the act of + rising to receive his guest, was shot dead through the back with two + bullets. His wife had already dressed; but she was stripped naked by the + soldiers, who tore the rings off her fingers with their teeth. The + slaughter now became general, and neither age nor infirmity was spared. + Some women, in defending their children, were killed; boys, imploring + mercy, were shot dead by officers on whose knees they hung. In one place + nine persons, as they sat enjoying themselves at table, were butchered by + the soldiers. In Inverriggon, Campbell’s own quarters, nine men were first + bound by the soldiers, and then shot at intervals, one by one. Nearly + forty persons were massacred by the troops, and several who fled to the + mountains perished by famine and the inclemency of the season. Those who + escaped owed their lives to a tempestuous night. Lieutenant-Colonel + Hamilton, who had received the charge of the execution from Dalrymple, was + on his march with four hundred men, to guard all the passes from the + valley of Glencoe; but he was obliged to stop by the severity of the + weather, which proved the safety of the unfortunate clan. Next day he + entered the valley, laid the houses in ashes, and carried away the cattle + and spoil, which were divided among the officers and soldiers.”—ARTICLE + “BRITAIN;” ENCYC. BRITANNICA—NEW EDITION. + </p> + <p> + Note 10.—FIDELITY OF THE HIGHLANDERS. + </p> + <p> + Of the strong, undeviating attachment of the Highlanders to the person, + and their deference to the will or commands of their chiefs and superiors—their + rigid adherence to duty and principle—and their chivalrous acts of + self-devotion to these in the face of danger and death, there are many + instances recorded in General Stewart of Garth’s interesting Sketches of + the Highlanders and Highland Regiments, which might not inaptly supply + parallels to the deeds of the Romans themselves, at the era when Rome was + in her glory. The following instances of such are worthy of being here + quoted:— + </p> + <p> + “In the year 1795 a serious disturbance broke out in Glasgow among the + Breadalbane Fencibles. Several men having been confined and threatened + with corporal punishment, considerable discontent and irritation were + excited among their comrades, which increased to such violence, that, when + some men were confined in the guard-house, a great proportion of the + regiment rushed out and forcibly released the prisoners. This violation of + military discipline was not to be passed over, and accordingly measures + were immediately taken to secure the ringleaders. But so many were equally + concerned, that it was difficult, if not impossible, to fix the crime on + any, as being more prominently guilty. And here was shown a trait of + character worthy of a better cause, and which originated from a feeling + alive to the disgrace of a degrading punishment. The soldiers being made + sensible of the nature of their misconduct, and the consequent necessity + of public example, SEVERAL MEN VOLUNTARILY OFFERED THEMSELVES TO STAND + TRIAL, and suffer the sentence of the law as an atonement for the whole. + These men were accordingly marched to Edinburgh Castle, tried, and four + condemned to be shot. Three of them were afterwards reprieved, and the + fourth, Alexander Sutherland, was shot on Musselburgh Sands. + </p> + <p> + “The following semi-official account of this unfortunate misunderstanding + was published at the time:— + </p> + <p> + “‘During the afternoon of Monday, when a private of the light company of + the Breadalbane Fencibles, who had been confined for a MILITARY offence, + was released by that company, and some other companies, who had assembled + in a tumultuous manner before the guard-house, no person whatever was + hurt, and no violence offered; and however unjustifiable the proceedings, + it originated not from any disrespect or ill-will to their officers, but + from a mistaken point of honour, in a particular set of men in the + battalion, who thought themselves disgraced by the impending punishment of + one of their number. The men have, in every respect, since that period + conducted themselves with the greatest regularity, and strict + subordination. The whole of the battalion seemed extremely sensible of the + improper conduct of such as were concerned, whatever regret they might + feel for the fate of the few individuals who had so readily given + themselves up as prisoners, to be tried for their own and others’ + misconduct.’ + </p> + <p> + “On the march to Edinburgh a circumstance occurred, the more worthy of + notice, as it shows a strong principle of honour and fidelity to his word + and to his officer in a common Highland soldier. One of the men stated to + the officer commanding the party, that he knew what his fate would be, but + that he had left business of the utmost importance to a friend in Glasgow, + which he wished to transact before his death; that, as to himself, he was + fully prepared to meet his fate; but with regard to his friend, he could + not die in peace unless the business was settled, and that, if the officer + would suffer him to return to Glasgow, a few hours there would be + sufficient, and he would join him before he reached Edinburgh, and march + as a prisoner with the party. The soldier added, ‘You have known me since + I was a child; you know my country and kindred; and you may believe I + shall never bring you to any blame by a breach of the promise I now make, + to be with you in full time to be delivered up in the Castle.’ This was a + startling proposal to the officer, who was a judicious, humane man, and + knew perfectly his risk and responsibility in yielding to such an + extraordinary application. However, his confidence was such, that he + complied with the request of the prisoner, who returned to Glasgow at + night, settled his business, and left the town before daylight to redeem + his pledge. He took a long circuit to avoid being seen, apprehended as a + deserter, and sent back to Glasgow, as probably his account of his + officer’s indulgence would not have been credited. In consequence of this + caution, and the lengthened march through woods and over hills by an + unfrequented route, there was no appearance of him at the hour appointed. + The perplexity of the officer when he reached the neighbourhood of + Edinburgh may be easily imagined. He moved forward slowly indeed, but no + soldier appeared; and unable to delay any longer, he marched up to the + Castle, and as he was delivering over the prisoners, but before any report + was given in, Macmartin, the absent soldier, rushed in among his fellow + prisoners, all pale with anxiety and fatigue, and breathless with + apprehension of the consequences in which his delay might have involved + his benefactor. + </p> + <p> + “In whatever light the conduct of the officer (my respectable friend, + Major Colin Campbell) may be considered, either by military men or others, + in this memorable exemplification of the characteristic principle of his + countrymen, fidelity to their word, it cannot but be wished that the + soldier’s magnanimous self-devotion had been taken as an atonement for his + own misconduct and that of the whole, who also had made a high sacrifice, + in the voluntary offer of their lives for the conduct of their brother + soldiers. Are these a people to be treated as malefactors, without regard + to their feelings and principles? and might not a discipline, somewhat + different from the usual mode, be, with advantage, applied to them?”—Vol.II. + pp.413-15. 3rd Edit. + </p> + <p> + “A soldier of this regiment, (The Argyllshire Highlanders) deserted, and + emigrated to America, where he settled. Several years after his desertion, + a letter was received from him, with a sum of money, for the purpose of + procuring one or two men to supply his place in the regiment, as the only + recompense he could make for ‘breaking his oath to his God and his + allegiance to his King, which preyed on his conscience in such a manner, + that he had no rest night nor day.’ + </p> + <p> + “This man had had good principles early instilled into his mind, and the + disgrace which he had been originally taught to believe would attach to a + breach of faith now operated with full effect. The soldier who deserted + from the 42nd Regiment at Gibraltar, in 1797, exhibited the same remorse + of conscience after he had violated his allegiance. In countries where + such principles prevail, and regulate the character of a people, the mass + of the population may, on occasions of trial, be reckoned on as sound and + trustworthy.”—Vol.II., p.218. 3rd Edit. + </p> + <p> + “The late James Menzies of Culdares, having engaged in the rebellion of + 1715, and been taken at Preston, in Lancashire, was carried to London, + where he was tried and condemned, but afterwards reprieved. Grateful for + this clemency, he remained at home in 1745, but, retaining a predilection + for the old cause, he sent a handsome charger as a present to Prince + Charles, when advancing through England. The servant who led and delivered + the horse was taken prisoner, and carried to Carlisle, where he was tried + and condemned. To extort a discovery of the person who sent the horse, + threats of immediate execution in case of refusal, and offers of pardon on + his giving information, were held out ineffectually to the faithful + messenger. He knew, he said, what the consequence of a disclosure would be + to his master, and his own life was nothing in the comparison. When + brought out for execution, he was again pressed to inform on his master. + He asked if they were serious in supposing him such a villain. If he did + what they desired, and forgot his master and his trust, he could not + return to his native country, for Glenlyon would be no home or country for + him, as he would be despised and hunted out of the glen. Accordingly he + kept steady to his trust, and was executed. This trusty servant’s name was + John Macnaughton, from Glenlyon, in Perthshire. He deserves to be + mentioned, both on account of his incorruptible fidelity, and of his + testimony to the honourable principles of the people, and to their + detestation of a breach of trust to a kind and honourable master, however + great might be the risk, or however fatal the consequences, to the + individual himself.”—Vol.1., pp. 52,53, 3rd Edit. + </p> + <p> + NOTE TO THE TWO DROVERS. + </p> + <p> + Note 11.—ROBERT DONN’S POEMS. + </p> + <p> + I cannot dismiss this story without resting attention for a moment on the + light which has been thrown on the character of the Highland Drover since + the time of its first appearance, by the account of a drover poet, by name + Robert Mackay, or, as he was commonly called, Rob Donn—that is, + Brown Robert—and certain specimens of his talents, published in the + ninetieth number of the Quarterly Review. The picture which that paper + gives of the habits and feelings of a class of persons with which the + general reader would be apt to associate no ideas but those of wild + superstition and rude manners, is in the highest degree interesting, and I + cannot resist the temptation of quoting two of the songs of this hitherto + unheard-of poet of humble life. They are thus introduced by the reviewer:— + </p> + <p> + “Upon one occasion, it seems, Rob’s attendance upon his master’s cattle + business detained him a whole year from home, and at his return he found + that a fair maiden to whom his troth had been plighted of yore had lost + sight of her vows, and was on the eve of being married to a rival (a + carpenter by trade), who had profited by the young drover’s absence. The + following song was composed during a sleepless night, in the neighbourhood + of Creiff, in Perthshire, and the home sickness which it expresses appears + to be almost as much that of the deer-hunter as of the loving swain. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘EASY IS MY BED, IT IS EASY, + BUT IT IS NOT TO SLEEP THAT I INCLINE; + THE WIND WHISTLES NORTHWARDS, NORTHWARDS, + AND MY THOUGHTS MOVE WITH IT. + More pleasant were it to be with thee + In the little glen of calves, + Than to be counting of droves + In the enclosures of Creiff. + EASY IS MY BED, ETC. + + ‘Great is my esteem of the maiden + Towards whose dwelling the north wind blows; + She is ever cheerful, sportive, kindly, + Without folly, without vanity, without pride. + True is her heart—were I under hiding, + And fifty men in pursuit of my footsteps, + I should find protection, when they surrounded me most + closely, + In the secret recess of that shieling. + EASY IS MY BED, ETC. + + ‘Oh for the day for turning my face homeward, + That I may see the maiden of beauty— + Joyful will it be to me to be with thee, + Fair girl with the long heavy locks! + Choice of all places for deer-hunting + Are the brindled rock and the ridge! + How sweet at evening to be dragging the slain deer + Downwards along the piper’s cairn! + EASY IS MY BED, ETC. + + ‘Great is my esteem for the maiden + Who parted from me by the west side of the enclosed field; + Late yet again will she linger in that fold, + Long after the kine are assembled. + It is I myself who have taken no dislike to thee, + Though far away from thee am I now. + It is for the thought of thee that sleep flies from me; + Great is the profit to me of thy parting kiss! + EASY IS MY BED, ETC. + + ‘Dear to me are the boundaries of the forest; + Far from Creiff is my heart; + My remembrance is of the hillocks of sheep, + And the heath of many knolls. + Oh for the red-streaked fissures of the rock, + Where in spring time the fawns leap; + Oh for the crags towards which the wind is blowing— + Cheap would be my bed to be there! + EASY IS MY BED, ETC.’ +</pre> + <p> + “The following describes Rob’s feelings on the first discovery of his + damsel’s infidelity. The airs of both these pieces are his own, and, the + Highland ladies say, very beautiful. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Heavy to me is the shieling, and the hum that is in it, + Since the ear that was wont to listen is now no more on the + watch. + Where is Isabel, the courteous, the conversable, a sister in + kindness? + Where is Anne, the slender-browed, the turret-breasted, whose + glossy hair pleased me when yet a boy? + HEICH! WHAT AN HOUR WAS MY RETURNING! + PAIN SUCH AS THAT SUNSET BROUGHT, WHAT AVAILETH ME TO TELL IT? + + ‘I traversed the fold, and upward among the trees— + Each place, far and near, wherein I was wont to salute my + love. + When I looked down from the crag, and beheld the fair-haired + stranger dallying with his bride, + I wished I had never revisited the glen of my dreams. + SUCH THINGS CAME INTO MY HEART AS THAT SUN WAS GOING DOWN, + A PAIN OF WHICH I SHALL NEVER BE RID, WHAT AVAILETH ME TO TELL + IT? + + ‘Since it has been heard that the carpenter had persuaded thee, + My sleep is disturbed—busy is foolishness within me at + midnight. + The kindness that has been between us, I cannot shake off that + memory in visions; + Thou callest me not to thy side; but love is to me for a + messenger. + THERE IS STRIFE WITHIN ME, AND I TOSS TO BE AT LIBERTY; + AND EVER THE CLOSER IT CLINGS, AND THE DELUSION IS GROWING TO + ME AS A TREE. + + ‘Anne, yellow-haired daughter of Donald, surely thou knowest + not how it is with me— + That it is old love, unrepaid, which has worn down from me my + strength; + That when far from thee, beyond many mountains, the wound in + my heart was throbbing, + Stirring, and searching for ever, as when I sat beside thee on + the turf. + NOW, THEN, HEAR ME THIS ONCE, IF FOR EVER I AM TO BE WITHOUT + THEE, + MY SPIRIT IS BROKEN—GIVE ME ONE KISS ERE I LEAVE THIS LAND! + + ‘Haughtily and scornfully the maid looked upon me:— + Never will it be work for thy fingers to unloose the band from + my curls. + Thou hast been absent a twelvemonth, and six were seeking me + diligently; + Was thy superiority so high that there should be no end of + abiding for thee? + HA! HA! HA! HAST THOU AT LAST BECOME SICK? + IS IT LOVE THAT IS TO GIVE DEATH TO THEE? SURELY THE ENEMY + HAS BEEN IN NO HASTE. + + ‘But how shall I hate thee, even though towards me thou hast + become cold? + When my discourse is most angry concerning thy name in thine + absence, + Of sudden thine image, with its old dearness, comes visibly + into my mind, + And a secret voice whispers that love will yet prevail! + AND I BECOME SURETY FOR IT ANEW, DARLING, + AND IT SPRINGS UP AT THAT HOUR LOFTY AS A TOWER.’ +</pre> + <p> + “Rude and bald as these things appear in a verbal translation, and rough + as they might possibly appear, even were the originals intelligible, we + confess we are disposed to think they would of themselves justify Dr. + Mackay (their Editor) in placing this herdsman-lover among the true sons + of song.”—QUARTERLY REVIEW, NO. XC., JULY 1831. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg’s Chronicles of the Canongate, by Sir Walter Scott + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE *** + +***** This file should be named 1828-h.htm or 1828-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/1/8/2/1828/ + +Produced by An Anonymous Volunteer, and David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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