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DICTIONAHV  OF  OLD  ENGLISH 


THE   GAELIC   SONGS    OF 
DUNCAN    MACINTYRE 


Grain 
Ghaidhealach 


LE 


Donnchadh  Macantsaoir 


AIR   AN    EADAR-THEANGACHADH 
AGUS    AIR    AN    CUR    A    MACH 

LE 

DEORSA   CALDAIR 


DUN-EIDEANN:    IAIN   GRANND 

31    GEORGE    IV.    BRIDGE 
1912 


The 

Gaelic    Songs 


OF 


Duncan    Maclntyre 


EDITED 
WITH  TRANSLATION  AND  NOTES 

BY 

GEORGE  CALDER 


EDINBURGH:  JOHN  GRANT 

31    GEORGE    IV.    BRIDGE 
1912 


S>0 

ALMA 
BAINTIGHEARNA    BHRAID-ALBANN 

NIGHEAN  CINN-FEADHNA  NAN  GREUMACH 


^0 

ALMA 
MARCHIONESS    OF    BREADALBANE 

DAUGHTER  OF  THE  CHIEFS  OF  THE  GRAHAM 


EDITOR'S    PREFACE 

The  editor  has  been  for  a  long  time  familiar  with  the 
name  of  Duncan  Maclntyre,  a  name  which  is  indeed 
famed  throughout  the  Highlands — and  far  beyond.  But 
owing  to  the  fact  that  Gaelic  is  read  by  few  of  those 
who  speak  it,  and  that  the  language  of  the  poet  is 
admittedly  difficult,  the  knowledge  of  him  is  for  the 
most  part  confined  literally  to  his  name,  or  to  a  few  lines 
of  his  poems.  Even  in  the  district  where  he  was  born 
and  bred,  the  same  ignorance,  with  little  abatement, 
though  happily  with  some  notable  exceptions,  prevails. 
The  editor,  having  settled  in  the  Duncan  Ban  country, 
conceived  that  it  reflected  little  credit  on  his  intelligence 
to  share  in  the  general  ignorance  of  one  so  widely  re- 
nowned. He  therefore  studied  the  bard's  poems,  visited 
the  places  with  which  his  name  is  connected,  and  read 
the  compositions  with  persons  to  whom  the  language  and 
the  locality  are  alike  familiar.  On  the  occasion  of  a 
visit  to  the  late  Rev.  James  M'Dougall  of  Duror,  the 
editor  chanced  to  mention  that  he  had  some  thoughts  of 
attempting  a  new  edition  of  the  poefs  works  with  a 
metrical  translation.  The  genial  old  Highland  gentle- 
man  hailed   the   suggestion  with   such  genuine  warmth 

ix 


EDITOR'S  PREFACE 

and  undisguised  heartiness  that  the  editor  began  the 
work  that  very  day.  It  has  been  continued  with  little 
interruption  till  the  result  is  at  last,  and  not  without 
many  misgivings,  laid  before  the  public. 

In  editing  the  text  he  has  been  conservative.  The 
peculiarities  of  the  leading  early  editions  may  be  clearly 
traced  in  this  revised  edition.  In  translation  he  has 
endeavoured  to  give,  if  not  a  literal,  at  all  events  a 
line  by  line  rendering,  and  to  preserve  in  the  English 
versification  some  resemblance  to  the  Gaelic  original. 
Within  these  severe  limits  all  poetical  embellishments 
have  beeen  rigorously  confined. 

In  writing  the  notes,  while  he  has  received  information 
from  most  of  his  friends  residing  in  the  neighbourhood, 
and  can  gratefully  recall  many  a  pleasant  meeting  and 
many  an  interesting  conversation,  he  has  also  the  pleasure 
of  acknowledging  the  kindness  and  courtesy  of  many 
correspondents,  among  whom  are  the  Marchioness  of 
Tullibardine,  Mrs  Campbell  of  Dunstaffnage,  and  Andrew 
Ross,  Esq.,  Ross  Herald,  who  were  consulted  on  military 
affairs ;  the  Hon.  Niall  D.  Campbell,  Sir  Duncan  Campbell 
of  Barcaldine,  Bart.,  C.V.O.,  Mr  John  MacGregor,  W.S., 
Mr  N.  B.  M'Kenzie,  Mr  Duncan  Maclntyre,  Edinburgh, 
and  Rev.  Hector  Maclean  of  Kilfinichen,  on  genealogy; 
Dr  M'Diarmid,  late  of  Killin,  on  local  traditions;  Mr 
Duncan  Maclntyre,  London,  on  all  the  above  subjects ; 
Rev.  Farquhar  M'Rae  of  Glenorchy,  and  Rev.  J.  W. 
Maclntyre  of  Kilmonivaig,  on  some  difficult  readings  in 
the  text ;  Dr  W.  J.  Watson,  on  place  names ;  and 
Rev.  William  Simpson,  D.D.,  on  legal  terminology. 

Thanks  are  also  due  to  Rev.  A.  E.  Robertson  for  the 
photograph  of  Ben  Dorain ;  to  Dr  Gillies  of  Easdale  for 


EDITOR'S  PREFACE 

lending  his  water-colour  of  John  Campbell  of  the  Bank ; 
to  Mr  Thos.  Ross,  LL.D.,  for  sketches  of  the  poet's 
monument  and  tomb,  and  to  Mr  T.  M.  Logan  for  the 
sketch  of  the  gun ;  to  the  late  Mr  Duncan  M'Isaac  for 
reading  with  his  well-known  kindness  and  accuracy  a 
proof  of  the  text  and  translation ;  and,  above  all,  to 
Rev.  C.  M.  Robertson  for  reading  a  proof  of  the  whole 
book  (with  the  exception  of  the  Note  on  the  Metrics), 
and  for  making  many  corrections  and  useful  suggestions. 
The  editor  now  parts  with  this  book,  the  labour  and 
recreation  of  years,  in  the  hope  that,  whatever  its 
limitations,  it  may  be  found  in  some  degree  worthy  of 
the  poefs  genius,  and  helpful  to  those  who  wish  to  study 
Highland  Gaelic  in  its  purest  and  noblest  form. 

G.  C. 

August  1912. 


XI 


AN    CLAR-INNSIDH 


Oran   do  Chlaidheamh  mhic  an  Leisdeir  agus  do  Bhl^r  na 
h-Eaglaise  Brice  .... 

Oran  do  Thailbeart  a  fhuaradh  o  Bhan-righ  MMri 

Oran  do'n  Mhusg     . 

Oran  do'n  Righ 

Oran  do  Mhorair  Ghleann  Urchaidh 

Coire  a'  Cheathaich 

Cumha  Coire  a'  Cheathaich 

Oran  Seacharan  Seilge 

Oran  do  lain  Caimbeul  a'  Bhanca 

Oran  Ghleann  Urchaidh     . 

Oran  an  t-Samhraidh 

Oran  do   Chaiptean   Donnchadh  Caimbeul  an  Geard  Dhun 
eideinn  . 

Oran  do  charaid  T^illeir  air  son  Cuairt  Shuirghe 

Oran    do'n   Tailleir    an    eirig  Orain  a  rinn  esan    an    aobhar 

a  Charaid 
Cumha  Ghilleasbuig  Achaladair 
Cumha  Chailein  Ghleann  lubhair 
Oran  do'n  Bhriogais 
Marbh-rann  Coilich 
Oran,  mar  gu'n  deanadh  Nighean  e  do  Nighin  eile 

Moladh  Beinn-dorain  .... 

xii 


2 

10 
16 
20 
30 
42 
52 
62 
66 
78 
82 

98 
108 

112 
122 
130 
142 
148 
156 
160 


CONTENTS 


PAOB 

Song  to  the  Sword  of  Fletcher  and  the  Battle  of  Falkirk  .  3 

Song  to  a  Halbert  which  was  got  from  Queen  Mary       .  .        11 

Song  to  the  Musket  ......        17 

Song  to  the  King     .......        21 

Song  to  Lord  Glenorchy    ......        31 

The  Corrie  of  the  Mist        .  .  .  .  .  .43 

Dirge  for  the  Misty  Corrie  .....        53 

Song  on  Missing  at  Hunting  .....        63 

Song  to  John  Campbell  of  the  Bank         .  .  .  .67 

Song  on  Glenorchy  .  .  .  .  .  .79 

Song  to  the  Summer 

Song  to  Captain  Duncan  Campbell  in  the  Edinburgh  Guard      .        99 

Song  to  a  Friend,  a  Tailor,  for  a  Courting  Trip  .  .  .109 

Song  to  the  Tailor  in  reply  to  a  Song  which 
Friend  of  his     . 

Lament  for  Archibald  of  Achallader 

Lament  for  Colin  of  Glenure 

Song  to  the  Breeches 

Elegy  for  a  Cock     . 

Song  such  as  one  Maid  would  make  to  Another 

Praise  of  Ben  Dorain 

xiii 


he  made  for  £ 

I 

.       113 

.       ]?.3 

.       131 

.       143 

.       149 

.       157 

161 

AN  CLAR-INNSIDH 


Oran  d'a  Ch^ile  nuadh-poste 

. 

.       196 

Oran  do  Leanabh-altrom    .... 

. 

.      206 

Oran  GaoU  ...... 

• 

.      210 

Oran  Sugraidh         ..... 

. 

.       216 

Oran  do  Chaora  a  fhuaradh  a'  Ghibht  o  Mhnaoi  uasail  araidh 

.       222 

Oran  Luaidh            ..... 

.       236 

Oran  do  Ghunna  d'an  ainm  Nic  Coiseam 

242 

Oran  Duthcha          ..... 

.       248 

Oran  Alasdair          ..... 

.      252 

Oran  do'n  t-sean  Fhreiceadan  Ghaidhealach 

.      254 

Oran  do  Reisimeid  Earra-ghaidheal 

264 

Cumha  larla  Bhraid-albann 

272 

Oran  do'n  Eideadh  Ghkidhealach  . 

.      278 

Oran  nam  Fineachan  a  fhuair  am  Fearann  air  ais  o'n  Righ  's  a 

Bhliadhna,  1782            .... 

286 

Oran  a'  Bhotail        .            .            •           .            . 

296 

Oran  a'  Bhranndaidh          .... 

302 

Rainn  do'n  Phadhadh         .... 

306 

Rainn  Gearradh-arm           .... 

308 

Moladh  do'n  Ghaidhlig,  's  do'n  Phiob  Mhoir  's  a'  Bhliadhna  1781 

312 

»»                             »»                             »» 

1785 

5      318 

»»                             »»                             ♦♦ 

178? 

I      324 

>»                             >»                             «> 

1784 

328 

»»                             »»                             »» 

178S 

334 

»»                              >»                             »» 

178S 

340 

Aoir  Uisdean  Phiobair        .... 

344 

Aoir  Anna    ...... 

852 

Rainn  a  ghabhas  Maighdean  d'a  Leannan 

356 

Rainn  I  Chalum  Cille          .... 

858 

An  Comh-dhunadh              .... 

360 

Oran  nam  Balgairean          ..... 

366 

Oran  Dhun-eideinn              ..... 

370 

Oran  do  dh'Iarla  Bhraid-albann     .... 

378 

CONTENTS 

Song  to  his  newly  wedded  Wife    . 
Song  to  a  Foster-child 
Love  Song   ..... 
Courting  Song         .... 
Song  to  a  Ewe  which  was  received  as  a  Gift 
Fulling  Song  .... 

Song  to  a  Gun  named  Cosham's  Daughter 
A  Birth-place  Song .... 
Song  to  Sandy         .... 
Song  to  the  old  Black  Watch 
Song  to  the  Argyll  Regiment 
Lament  for  the  Earl  of  Breadalbane 
Song  to  the  Highland  Garb 

Song  to  the  Highland  Clans  who  got  back 
King  in  the  Year  1782 

Song  to  the  Bottle  .... 

Song  to  the  Brandy 

Verses  on  Thirst      .... 

Verses  on  Arms       .... 

Praise  to  Gaelic  and  the  Great  Bagpipe  in 


Satire  on  Hugh  the  Piper  . 

Satire  on  Anna        .... 

Verses  which  a  Maiden  sings  to  her  Lover 

Verses  on  lona        .... 

The  Conclusion        .... 

Song  to  the  Foxes  .... 

Song  to  Edinburgh 

Song  to  the  Earl  of  Breadalbane    . 

XV 


PAOK 

. 

197 

. 

207 

. 

211 

. 

217 

from  a  certain  Lad; 

'   223 

. 

237 

. 

243 

. 

249 

. 

253 

. 

255 

. 

265 

. 

273 

. 

279 

their  Land  from  the 

. 

287 

, 

297 

. 

303 

. 

307 

. 

309 

the  Year  1781 

313 

1782 

319 

1783 

325 

1784 

329 

1785 

335 

1789 

341 

. 

345 

353 

357 

359 

361 

367 

371 

379 

AN  CLAR-INNSIDH 

PAOK 

Oran  do  Reisiraeid  Bhraid-albann  ....       388 

Oran  na  G^said       .......       392 

Oran  a'  Champa  's  a'  Bhliadhna  1798        .  .  .  .       394 

Oran  do'n  Inbhear  .......       898 

Cead  deireannach  nam  Beann        .....       406 

Rainn  Claidheimh   .  .  .  .  .  .  .412 

Rainn  do'n  cheud  Cheaird  .....       416 

Marbh-rann  an  Ughdair  dha  fein  .  .  .  .  .418 

Appendix  I. — 

Aoir  Iain  Fhaochaig     ......      428 

Marbh-rann  do  Chu  a  chaidh  troimh  'n  Eigh  's  a'  Mhaigh- 

each  tarsuinn  'na  Bheul    .....      436 

Oran  eile  do  Bhlar  na  h-Eaglaise  Brice  .  .  .       488 


XVI 


CONTENTS 

PAOl 

Song  to  the  Breadalbane  Regiment  .  .  .  .      389 

Song  on  the  Gazette  ......      393 

Song  to  the  Camp  in  the  Year  1798  .  .  .  .      395 

Song  to  the  Inver    .......       399 

The  last  Farewell  of  the  Bens        .  .  .  .  .407 

Verses  on  a  Sword  .  .  .  .  .  .  .413 

Verses  on  the  First  Craft    .  .  .  .  .  .417 

The -A  uthor's  Epitaph  on  Himself  ....       419 

Appendix  I. — 

Satire  on  John  Wilkes  (Whelks)         .  .  .  .429 

Elegy  on  a  Dog  that  went  through  the  Ice  with  a  Hare  in 

his  Mouth  .......       487 

Another  Song  to  the  Battle  of  Falkirk  .  .  .       439 

Appendix  II. — 

Notes  on  the  Text        .  .  .  .  .  .446 

Appendix  III. — 

Historical  and  Explanatory  Notes      ....      481 

Appendix  IV. — 

Note  on  the  Metrics     ......       513 

Glossary      ........      521 

Names  of  Persons  .......       524 

Names  of  Places    .......      528 


xvii 


LIST   OF    ILLUSTRATIONS 

Full-page 

FACE  PAGE 

Ben  Dorain  (from  a  photograph)             .            .           .           .  xl 

John  Campbell  of  the  Bank         .....  66 

The  Poet's  Monument       ......  360 

The  Poet's  Grave  .......  424 

'The  Poet's  Discharge  from  the  Breadalbane  Fencibles            .  510 


In  Text 

[The  Poet's  Gun  (according  to  tradition) 
.The  Arms  of  Maclntyre   . 


PAGK 

246 
812 


XIX 


EXPLANATION    OF    NUMERALS 

Numerals  coming  first  in  a  series,  or  following  a  semicolon,  refer 
to  the  page  of  the  Gaelic  text;  numerals  following  a  comma, 
refer  to  the  line  on  the  page. 


LIST   OF   ABBREVIATIONS 

A  B  C  D  E    Each  letter  denotes   one   of  the   first  five  Editions  of 

the  poet's  works. 
^n.  The  Irish  ^Eneid,  Irish  Texts  Society,  vol.  vi. 

Arms.  Armstrong's  Gaelic  Dictionary. 

A .  U.  The  Annals  of  Ulster. 

O.  C.  Q.  Caithreim  Cellachain  Caisil,  by  A.  Bugge. 

C.  B.  The  Celtic  Review. 

H.  B.  A  Gaelic  Dictionary,  published  at  Heme  Bay. 

H.  S.  D.         A  Dictionary  of  the  Gaehc  Language,  by  the  Highland 

Society  of  Scotland. 
Ir.  01.  Irish    Glosses,    a    Tract    on    Latin    Declension,    Wh. 

Stokes. 
Ir.  T.  Irische  Texte,  by  Windisch  and  Stokes. 

/.  T.  S.  Irish  Texts  Society. 

M'B.  An  Etymological  Dictionary  of  the  Gaelic  Language, 

by  Alexander  MacBain. 
ML  The  Milan  Glosses  on  the  Psalms. 

O'Cl.  O'Clery's  Irish  Glossary,  Revue  Celtique,  iv. ,  v. 

O'D.  O'Donovan's  Supplement  to  O'Reilly. 

O'R.  An  Irish-English  Dictionary,  by  Edward  O'Reilly. 

O.S.  Ordnance  Survey. 

Sg.  Glosses  on  Priscian  (St  Gall). 

Wb.  Glosses  on  the  Pauline  Epistles  (Wiirtzburg). 

Z^.  Grammatica  Celtica,  editio  altera,  by  Zeuss. 


XX 


BIOGRAPHICAL   INTRODUCTION 

The  Scots  Magazine  and  Edinburgh  Literary  Miscellany^ 
for  October  1812,  contains  the  following  notice: — 

"  Oct.  6.  At  Edinburgh,  in  his  88th  year,  Duncan 
M'Intyre,  alias  Donncha-han  nan-Oran,  the  celebrated 
Highland  bard.  This  veteran,  and  venerable  poet,  was 
born  in  Druimliaghart,  Glenorchy,  Argyllshire,  20th 
March  1724.  He  fought  at  the  memorable  battle  of 
Falkirk,  on  the  17th  of  January  1745  (under  the 
command  of  the  gallant  Colonel  Campbell  of  Carwhin), 
where  he  had  the  misfortune  to  lose  his  sword  (Claidh- 
eamh  ceannard  chloin  an  Leasdair\  of  which  he  has  given 
such  a  minute  description  in  his  admirable  song  to  that 
memorable  day.  Being  a  most  excellent  shooter,  he  was 
afterwards  appointed  forester  to  the  Right  Hon.  the 
Earl  of  Breadalbane  in  Coire  Cheathaich  and  Bein  Dourain, 
and  thereafter  to  his  Grace  the  Duke  of  Argyll,  Buachill- 
Eite.  He  afterwards  served  in  one  of  the  Earl  of 
Breadalbane''s  fencible  regiments,  raised  in  the  year  1793, 
wherein  he  continued  until  he  was  discharged  in  1799, 
and  from  that  period  till  his  death,  he  has  lived  a  retired 
life,  rendered  not  uncomfortable  by  the  beneficence  of 
that  nobleman.  The  chief  amusements  of  his  youth  were 
fowling  and  fishing.  In  his  young  days  he  was  remark- 
ably handsome,  and,  throughout  his  whole  life,  possessed 
a  very  easy  and  agreeable  disposition.     Although  when 

xxi 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

provoked,  his  enemies  generally  felt  the  effects  of  his 
pride  and  resentment,  yet  to  his  benefactors  he  was 
equally  grateful.  He  was,  like  aU  the  rest  of  the  poets, 
very  fond  of  company,  and  a  cheerful  glass,  and  was  not 
only  very  agreeable  over  his  bottle,  but  also  very 
circumspect.  Although  M'Intyre  discovered  an  early 
inclination  to  poetry,  he  never  produced  anything  worthy 
of  much  notice  till  the  memorable  battle  of  Falkirk,  a 
description  of  which  composes  the  first  song  in  the 
valuable  collection  published  by  him.  The  collection 
contains  lyric,  comic,  epic,  and  religious  compositions,  of 
such  merit,  as  renders  it  difficult  to  say  in  what  depart- 
ment of  poetry  this  writer  most  excelled.  At  a  period 
less  remote  than  that  in  which  this  celebrated  author  was 
born,  public  schools  were  but  thinly  established  in  the 
Highlands  of  Scotland,  he  therefore  had  not  the  benefit 
of  any  education,  nor  the  advantage  of  reading  the 
productions  of  other  authors ;  yet,  notwithstanding,  the 
whole  poems  and  songs  contained  in  the  admirable 
collection  published  by  him,  are  solely  of  his  own  com- 
position, unassisted  by  anything  but  the  direction  and 
power  of  his  own  genius.  His  poetical  talents,  therefore, 
justly  entitle  him  to  rank  among  the  first  bards  of  the 
world,  for  all  good  judges  of  Celtic  poetry  agree,  that 
nothing  like  the  purity  of  his  Gaelic,  and  the  style  of  his 
poetry,  has  appeared  in  the  Highlands  of  Scotland,  since 
the  days  of  his  countryman,  the  sublime  Ossian.  It  is  of 
Donncha-ban  it  might  justly  be  said, 

Ifa'n  leabhadh  ea'soig  gach  oroid  is  Sgevl^ 

Nail  cuireadh  heo  no  marbh  glasghairm  air  a  bhevl"  * 

1  If  every  speech  and  tale  he  had  studied  in  his  youth, 
Neither  dead  nor  living  had  put  muzzle  on  his  mouth, 
xxii 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

Such  is  the  earliest  attempt  to  write  the  poet's  Life. 
But  it  had  been  thought  of  before.  The  preface  to  the 
Third  Edition,  1804,  announced  that  "a  gentleman  of  learn- 
ing and  abilities  has  already  undertaken  that  task.""  And 
the  next  Edition,  that  of  1834,  commenting  on  the  above 
announcement,  says:  "Whether  this  was  ever  published 
we  have  not  been  able  to  learn,  but  think  that  if  it  had 
appeared  we  would  have  been  able  to  find  it.  Subjoined 
are  a  few  particulars  collected  from  various  sources,  and 
upon  which  reliance  may  be  placed."  The  sources  are, 
however,  confined  to  the  above  notice  in  the  Scots 
Magazine,  from  which  the  statements  in  the  Fourth 
Edition  are  taken  verbatim,  and  on  which  the  same  but 
not  greater  reliance  is  to  be  placed,  for  the  account  has 
gained  nothing  by  repetition. 

Whatever  may  have  been  the  reason,  this  notice  of 
the  poet's  death  was  delayed  for  some  months.  It  is 
clear  from  Brown's  Monumental  Inscriptions  that  he  died 
on  the  14th  May,  and  from  the  MS.  Record  of  Interments 
in  Greyfriars  Churchyard  that  he  was  buried  on  the  "  19th 
May,  three  paces  east  of  Bertram's  tomb."  There  his 
grave  may  be  seen  marked  by  a  square  monument,  erected 
in  1855,  with  a  suitable  inscription  on  one  face,  and  on 
another  the  first  eight  lines  of  Marbh-rann  an  Ughdair 
dha  fein,  p.  418,  while  the  pjrramid  above  is  adorned 
with  weapons  and  trophies  of  war  and  of  the  chase. 

Drumliaghart,  where  the  poet  was  born,  is  a  spur  of 
land  stretching  athwart  the  valley  that  lies  toward  the 
west  end  of  Loch  Tulla,  and  is  visible  from  the  West 
Highland  Railway.  Favourable  to  some  extent  for  culti- 
vation, it  was   in   the   early  part   of  the    18  th  century 

occupied  by  a  crofting  community,  one  of  whom  was  the 

xxiii 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

poet's  father.  Now  the  deer  graze  by  the  grass-grown 
hearths ;  and  the  scene  all  around  is  a  magnificent 
solitude.  To  the  north  tower  the  peaks  of  the  Monadh 
Dubh ;  to  the  south  and  east  are  "  Glenorchy's  proud 
mountains,'"'  prominent  among  which  are  Mam  Charaidh 
and  Ben  Dorain,  the  subject  of  his  songs.  A  region  in 
summer  beautiful  as  the  land  of  dreams,  in  autumn 
raucous  with  the  belling  of  stags ;  while  in  winter  the 
mountains  assume  and  pass  through  all  shades  of  colour 
from  deepest  indigo  to  virgin  white.  Duncan  Maclntyre 
had  looked  on  these  things  with  a  poet's  eye,  and  learned 
what  there  was  to  learn  from  them.  For  church  and 
school  were  situated  at  Clachan-an-diseirt,  now  known 
as  Dalmally,  fifteen  miles  down  the  glen,  and  education 
in  the  accepted  sense  was  quite  beyond  his  reach.  But  he 
had  drunk  deep  from  the  well  of  traditional  song  and 
story,  and  when  the  time  came  he  could  himself  touch  the 
harp  with  a  master's  hand. 

When  he  left  this  quiet  haven,  a  youth  of  twenty-one, 
it  was  to  take  service  with  the  King.  The  troubles  of 
the  '45  were  felt  in  the  wilds  of  Glenorchy.  The  Royal 
Warrant  to  the  Duke  of  Argyll  as  Lord-Lieutenant  of 
the  County  ran ;  "  You  are  hereby  ordered  and  directed 
to  call  out  such  part  of  the  Militia  and  Fencible  men  of 
the  Shire  of  Argyll  which  you  shall  find  most  necessary  or 
expedient  for  our  Service  and  the  Public  Peace."  Among 
such  fencible  men  was  Archibald  Fletcher,  tacksman  of 
the  Crannach,  that  part  of  the  farm  of  Achallader  which 
lies  a  little  more  than  a  mile  upstream  from  the  old 
castle  of  the  same  name.  Himself  unwilling,  or  as  the 
poem  broadly  hints,  afraid  to  go,  Fletcher  engaged 
Maclntyre  as  his   substitute,  promising   him  300  merks 


XXIV 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

and  the  use  of  a  sword.  How  the  Royal  troops  behaved 
at  Falkirk  all  the  world  knows.  The  poet,  at  heart 
a  Jacobite,  not  only  ran  away  like  the  rest,  but  lost  his 
employer's  weapon.  When  the  regiment  was  disbanded, 
on  or  about  the  1st  September  1746,  he,  nothing  daunted, 
returned  to  his  native  place ;  but  his  reception  was  of  the 
coldest.  Fletcher  refused  to  pay  the  fee,  alleging  as  a 
reason  the  loss  of  his  sword.  Duncan  had  only  a  poet's 
remedy.  Facit  indignatio  versus  (Indignation  makes 
verses).  The  poet,  for  the  first  time  realising  his  gifts, 
made  a  song  about  Fletcher  which  in  its  way  set  the 
heather  on  fire.  It  certainly  roused  the  ire  of  the  tacks- 
man to  such  a  pitch,  that  the  next  time  they  foregathered 
he  struck  the  poet  over  the  back  with  his  stick,  remarking  : 
Dean  oran  air  sin,  a  ghille :  "  Make  a  song  on  that,  my 
lad.*"  On  hearing  of  the  matter,  Breadalbane  interposed, 
saw  justice  done,  and  caused  payment  to  be  made  to  the 
poet,  who  thus  came  by  his  own.  He  had  his  cash  in  hand^ 
and  his  revenge  beforehand.  And  we  note  with  pleasure 
that  notwithstanding  all  this,  it  was  one  bearing  the 
name  of  Fletcher  who  did  in  after  years  act  a  very  friendly 
part  towards  the  poet,  striving,  though  ineff'ectually,  to 
secure  for  him  the  appointment  of  Bard  to  the  High- 
land Society  of  Scotland. 

Soon  afterwards  his  noble  patron  appointed  him 
forester  in  Coire  Cheathaich  and  Ben  Dorain.  The  locality 
was  already  rich  in  associations,  but  the  light  of  his 
genius  has  made  it  classic  ground.  Here  in  his  youthful 
prime,  in  a  good  position  which  was  assured,  combining 
light  duties  with  ample  leisure,  he  composed  the  two 
poems  which  have  raised  his  name  highest  in  the  temple  of 
fame.     Tradition  says  he  lived  in   a   cottage  near  Bad- 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

odhar,  the  ruins  of  which  are  still  visible,  and  every  hill 
and  dale  in  the  neighbourhood  is  sung — every  mountain 
between  his  home  and  Auch,  which  was  then  the  seat  of 
power,  is  named  with  pride  and  affection.  The  Corrie 
itself  is  dwelt  on  with  a  minuteness  of  detail  which  only 
genius  could  render  interesting.  It  remains  as  he  left  it, 
save  for  the  disappearance  of  the  wood,  and  the  glugan- 
phimbach,  p.  46,  61.  The  latter  was,  according  to  tradi- 
tion, a  spring  rising  out  of  the  mountain  to  the  height  of 
a  foot  or  two.  So  it  was  a  delight  to  others  besides  the 
poet,  till  a  Sasunnach  wandering  in  these  parts,  and 
moved  by  what  spirit  it  is  not  easy  to  say,  rammed  his 
stick  into  the  orifice  and  stopped  the  jet  for  ever. 

After  a  time  and  probably  owing  to  promotion  he 
removed  to  Dalness,  which  lies  under  the  shadow  of 
Buachaill  Eite.  The  ruins  of  his  cottage,  situated  on  a 
level  space  between  two  streams,  and  shaded  by  old  ash 
trees,  must  always  be  a  sacred  spot  to  the  admirers  of 
genius.  Tradition  has  it  that  he  looked  after  Breadal- 
bane's  deer  on  Ben  Starabh.  The  notice  says  he  was 
forester  to  Argyll,  presumably  to  Archibald,  third 
Duke.  The  estate  of  Dalness,  however,  was  in  posses- 
sion of  the  Macdonald  family  long  before  Maclntyre"'s  day. 
In  1608  Angus  Macdonald  got  a  Tack  thereof  from 
Archibald  Campbell  of  Inverawe,  and  it  remained  in 
the  tenure  of  the  family  till,  in  1694,  the  same  superior 
granted  a  proper  wadset  to  Alexander  Macdonald  of 
the  lands  of  Dalness,  who  the  same  year  became  absolute 
owner  of  the  estate,  obtaining  a  feu-charter  which  for 
greater  security  he  deposited  with  the  Chief  of  Glen- 
garry,   where    it    remained   till    Glengarry's   house    was 

burned  down  by  the  Duke  of  Cumberland  in  1746,  and 

xxvi 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

the  charter  was  destroyed  or  lost.  In  1764  the  lands 
were  feued  of  new  by  Mrs  Janet  Campbell  of  Inverawe 
to  John  Macdonald  of  Dalness.  The  presumption  that 
it  was  this  family  and  not  Argyll,  to  whom  the  poet 
was  forester,  is  strengthened  by  a  reference  in  his  Song 
to  a  Ewe.  A  lady  named  Susan  had  presented  him 
with  a  ewe  bred  in  Coire  Uanan,  p.  222,  9.  Alex- 
ander Macdonald  of  Dalness  married  Jean,  daughter 
to  Dugald  Maclachan  of  Corrounan.  They  had  four 
sons,  and  after  Iheir  father's  death  in  1726,  three  of 
them,  including  the  successor  to  the  property,  lived  for 
some  time  with  their  grandfather  at  Corrie.  What  is 
more  likely  than  that  some  young  relative  of  his 
employer  should  present  the  poet  with  a  ewe  in  the  same 
spirit  in  which  he  received  it  ? 

Probably  it  was  to  his  first  home  that  he  brought  his 
bride,  Mairi  Bhan  Og.  A  relation  of  the  poet,  as  tradi- 
tion says,  intermarriage  in  the  crofting  community  being 
frequent  and  close,  she  was  in  a  somewhat  better  social 
position  than  her  lover.  Her  father,  a  petty  bailiff  as 
well  as  keeper  of  a  small  wayside  inn,  which  was  later 
replaced  by  Inveroran  Hotel,  was  named  Nicol  Maclntyre, 
and  she  inherited  not  only  his  cajving  kine  but  his 
Christian  name,  being  known  as  Mairi  Nighean 
Neacail  (Mary,  daughter  of  Nicol),  to  distinguish  her  from 
the  other  Maries  of  the  Clan.  A  handsome  woman 
according  to  all  accounts,  she  became  a  dutiful  and 
affectionate  wife.  The  husband  being  a  poet  and 
admittedly  of  an  easy  disposition,  the  wife  required  to  be 
practical,  as  the  following  anecdote  will  show.  One  rainy 
day  as  he  lay  in  bed  composing  his  poems,  the  wet  began 

to  make  itself  disagreeably  felt.     Addressing  her  by  the 

xxvii 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

classic  title  she  then  enjoyed  and  has  ever  since  retained, 
A  Mhairi  Bhan  Og,  ars  esan,  hifalhh  a  mach  agus  cuir 
tugha  air  an  tigh,  tha  snigh  a"*  tighinn  a  stigh :  "  Fair 
Young  Mary,''  quoth  he,  "  go  forth  and  thatch  the  house, 
the  ooze  comes  in."  Yet  he  would  hear  nothing  in  her 
dispraise.  An  admirer  of  the  poems,  fascinated  by  the 
description  of  her  charms,  but  disappointed  by  her  actual 
appearance,  hinted  to  the  poet  that  she  was  not  so  very 
beautiful  after  all :  Cha  n-fhaca  tusa  i  lets  na  suilean 
agamsa :  "  You  have  not  seen  her  with  my  eyes.'"'  Reading 
the  songs,  we  are  charmed  by  her  as  she  appeared  in  her 
youth  to  loving  eyes  in  the  Highlands.  Later  glimpses 
show  her  ever  the  same  comely  and  efficient  helpmeet  to 
her  husband.  She  bore  him  his  children,  and  saw  some 
of  her  daughters  settled  in  life,  one  married  to  Dr  Mac- 
Naughton,  known  as  Dr  MacVicar,  Killin ;  another, 
Elizabeth,  to  Joseph  Hutcheson,  who  had  shipping 
interests  in  the  Western  Isles.  Of  both  these  unions 
representatives  survive.  After  they  left  the  Highlands, 
the  legend  runs  that  when  he  was  cook  to  the  regiment, 
she  presided  in  the  canteen ;  that  latterly  she  kept  a  shop 
in  the  Lawnmarket ;  that  she  was  a  good  distiller  and 
that  her  husband,  called  upon  to  answer  for  this  part  of 
the  housekeeping,  satisfied  the  court  by  declaring  that 
he  had  drunk  more  whisky  than  he  had  ever  made. 
Duncan  Stewart,  the  man  who  collected  the  money  where- 
with to  erect  the  tombstone  in  the  Greyfriars  Churchyard, 
often — so  he  told  my  informant — saw  her  when  she  lived 
in  the  West  Port,  and  wore  a  sowhack.  She  accompanied 
her  husband  in  his  journeys  to  the  Highlands  ;  and  two 
years  after  his  death  she  followed  him  to  the  same  grave 

in  the  Greyfriars  Churchyard. 

xxviii 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

The  following  document,  given  to  the  editor  by 
James  MacNaughton,  Edinburgh,  whose  father,  son  to  Dr 
MacNaughton  of  Killin,  wrote  it,  summarises  the  family 
history : — 

[Duncan]  Maclntyre  alias  Donnacha 

[Ban  nan]  Grain  and  his  wife 

[Mary]  Maclntyre  alias  Mari  bhan 

Gg  [lie  bu]ried  in  the  Greyfriars 

Churchyard  Edinr. — They  lie 

side  by  side  in  front  of  Bertram's 

stone  a  grave's  length  being  between 

them  and  it — Their  3  sons  James, 

Peter  and  Donald  and  2  of  their 

Daughters  Mary  and  Elizabeth  also 

3  of  their  grandchildren  James,  James 

and  Duncan  M*  Naught  on  are  all  buried 

at  the  same  spot  as  near  each 

other  as  circumstances  at  the  time 

of  their  decease  would  admit. 

They  also  had 

1  son  named  Donald  and  one  daughter  named 

Christina  buried  at  Clachan  an  Diseirt 

[  ]  Peter  buried  at  Killin 

[  ]  Cohn  ? at  Coldstream 

and 

[Ar]chibald  died  in  England 

[place?]  unisnown. 

1  Daughter  named  Ann  bu[ried  at] 

Kenmore. 

After  Maclntyre  left  the  Highlands  he  joined  the 
Edinburgh  City  Guard.  When  this  event  took  place  is 
uncertain,  but  beyond  question  he  had  abandoned  Nic 
Cbiseam,  his  stalking  gun,  p.  16,  17,  and  shouldered 
Sebnaid,  the  weapon  of  the  Guard,  p.  16,  12,  before  the 
first  edition  of  his  songs  appeared  in  1768.  "  A  humble 
Highlander,'*  says  Chambers,  "  considered  it  as  getting  a 

xxix 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

berth  when  he  was  enlisted  into  the  Edinburgh  Guard. 
Of  this  feeling  we  have  a  remarkable  illustration  in  an 
anecdote  regarding  the  Highland  bard,  Duncan  Maclntyre, 
usually  called  Donacha  Bhan  [sic].  This  man,  really  an 
exquisite  poet  to  those  understanding  his  language,  became 
the  object  of  a  kind  interest  to  many  educated  persons  in 
Perthshire,  his  native  county  [sic].  The  Earl  of  Breadal- 
bane  sent  to  let  him  know  that  he  wished  to  befriend  him, 
and  was  anxious  to  procure  him  some  situation  that  might 
put  him  comparatively  at  his  ease.  Poor  Duncan  re- 
turned his  thanks,  and  asked  his  Lordship's  interest  to 
get  him  into  the  Edinburgh  Town  Guard — pay  sixpence  a 
day."  Tradition  adds  that  he  had  besides  a  cow's  grass 
on  the  Castle  Esplanade  ! 

Of  his  life  in  Edinburgh  little  is  known.  It  is  not 
surprising  that  Burns,  who  came  and  went  like  a  meteor 
in  1786,  should  never  have  heard  of  the  Highland  bard, 
then  resident  in  the  city ;  but  it  does  seem  strange  to 
have  to  look  in  vain  through  subscription  lists 
for  the  name  of  Scott,  who  was  interested  in  everything 
Scottish,  Lowland  or  Highland,  and  who  loved  the 
Highlanders  so  well  that  he  even  knew  a  good  deal  of 
Gaelic.  A  glance  at  the  minutes  of  the  Highland  and 
Agricultural  Society  of  Scotland  will  suggest  an  explana- 
tion. The  members  set  before  them  as  a  definite  aim  the 
encouragement  of  Gaelic  poetry,  for  which  doubtless  they 
deserve  great  praise.  Yet  their  outlays  on  this  great 
object  were  small,  their  applause  stinted  and  halting, 
their  judgment  such  that  it  will  not  be  upheld  by 
posterity.  If  this  be  true  of  educated  and  influential 
Highlanders,  what  could  be  expected  of  Lowlanders,  even 
though  they  were  men  of  genius,  like  Burns  and  Scott  ? 

XXX 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

The  Society's  Records  begin  in  the  year  1784,  and 
narrate  how  the  pipe-playing  competition,  hitherto  held 
in  connection  with  the  Tryst  at  Falkirk,  was  removed  to 
Edinburgh.  To  a  request  by  the  London  Society  that 
their  brethren  in  the  northern  Capital  should  take 
charge  of  and  give  judgment  in  the  competitions,  they 
acquiesced,  and  deputed  John  Clerk  of  Elden,  one  of 
their  members,  to  proceed  to  Falkirk  for  this  purpose. 
Attended  by  the  secretary  and  by  the  Society's  piper  and 
officer,  who  carried  with  them  the  Prize  Pipe  and  money 
sufficient  for  the  prizes,  he  reached  Falkirk  on  the  12th 
October,  the  day  on  which  by  the  Almanack  of  the  year 
the  Tryst  was  to  hold.  But  they  found  that  they  had 
arrived  a  couple  of  days  too  soon.  Despairing  of  a 
successful  gathering,  they  decided  that  they  would  not 
again  meet  at  Falkirk,  but  appointed  the  gathering  to 
take  place  in  Edinburgh  on  20th  October  that  year,  and 
in  succeeding  years  after  the  races,  between  the  hay 
season  and  the  harvest.  Sixteen  pipers  assembled  and 
took  part  in  the  programme,  which  was  previously  arranged 
in  two  parts.  "The  first  consisted  of  various  kinds  of 
ancient  Highland  music,  particularly  Salutes,  Laments, 
Marches,  and  Gatherings,  made  choice  of  by  the  different 
candidates  on  the  order  of  their  names  previously  fixed  by 
ballot,  after  which  the  Bard  Maclntyre  rehearsed  an 
occasional  Gaelic  poem.  The  second  part  consisted  of  the 
Glasmheur  prescribed  to  them  by  the  judges,  and  was 
concluded  with  a  piece  [of  pipe  music]  by  the  Professor, 
and  a  Gaelic  song  by  the  Bard  Campbell  in  praise  of  the 
Pipe,  Gaelic  Language,  and  Highland  dress  in  which  the 
candidates  and  bards  appeared." 

The  six  pieces  beginning  on  p.  312  are  the  successful 
xxxi 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

prize  poems  composed  by  Duncan  Ban  for  the  Highland 
Society  in  London,  in  the  years  denoted  by  their  respective 
titles.  These  fine  poems  amply  merit  the  honour  which 
the  poet  attained  by  them,  though  he  did  not  meet  with 
the  same  success  in  his  own  country. 

At  a  meeting  of  the  committee  held  on  28th  Decem- 
ber 1784,  "Duncan  Maclntyre  sung  his  poetical  Gaelic 
composition  On  the  Restitution  of  the  Forfeited  Estates, 
and  distributed  printed  copies  among  the  members. 
The  committee  were  much  pleased  with  the  bard's 
performance,  and  at  his  request  recommended  to  the 
Secretary  to  transmit  a  copy  of  his  song  to  the 
Secretary  of  the  Highland  Society  of  London,  and  to 
acquaint  him  that  Maclntyre  desired  to  be  a  candidate 
for  the  prizes  offered  by  that  Society  for  poetical 
compositions  in  Gaelic  On  the  Restitution  of  the  Highland 
Dress  and  the  Forfeited  Estates.''^ 

Early  in  the  following  year  Donald  Shaw  sung  to  the 
committee  his  Gaelic  song  On  the  Restitution  of  the 
Fojfeited  Estates,  which  was  also  transmitted  to  London. 
In  September  the  "  meeting  delivered  to  the  Bard  Duncan 
Maclntyre  the  prize  of  50  merks"  for  the  above  song. 
Alexander  Cameron  from  Lochaber  and  the  Bard  Shaw 
received  a  part  of  the  collection  arising  from  tickets  and 
admissions.  Cameron  had  applied  for  funds  to  publish 
his  MS.  in  1786.  Next  year  the  committee  recommended 
the  purchase  of  the  MS.  He  was  afterwards  appointed 
Bard  to  the  Society,  and  his  death  is  referred  to  at  a 
meeting  on  13th  January  1789,  when  Dr  Grant  moved 
that  Donald  Shaw  be  employed  as  the  Society^s  Bard  in 
place  of  Cameron  now  deceased.  Shaw  remained  the  only 
candidate   till    1st    August,  when   "Duncan   Maclntyre, 

xxxii 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

being  mentioned  as  a  candidate  with  Shaw  for  the  office 
of  bard,  and  the  convener  [Mr  Fletcher]  having  produced 
a  small  volume  of  poems  composed  by  the  said  Maclntyre 
to  which  he  appealed  as  evidence  of  Maclntyre's  poetic 
merit,  the  sub-committee  resolved  to  take  a  comparative 
trial  of  the  merit  of  the  competitors,  and  for  the  purpose 
recommended  to  each  of  them  to  prepare  a  poem  On  the 
Warlike  Exploits  of  the  42nd  Regiment,  or  Moladh  na  sean 
Reisamid  duith,  and  to  have  their  poems  in  readiness  to 
rehearse  viva  voce  before  the  sub-committee  on  Friday, 
the  24th  July  next,  at  two  o'clock  p.m.,  and  the  committee 
expect  that  the  competitors  will  be  ready  to  say  on  oath, 
if  desired,  that  they  have  received  no  assistance  from 
any  person  in  the  composition  of  the  subjects  of 
trial.'' 

The  eventful  day  arrived,  and  "Donald  Shaw  and 
Duncan  Maclntyre,  the  only  competitors  for  the  office  of 
bard,  rehearsed  in  presence  of  this  committee  poetical 
compositions  On  the  Military  Exploits  of  the  42nd  Regi- 
ment, being  the  subject  prescribed  to  them  at  a  former 
Meeting  of  this  Committee,  and  Mr  Maclntyre  gave  in  a 
printed  copy  of  his  performance ;  resolved  as  the  opinion 
of  this  Committee  that  the  Society  should  indemnify  the 
expense  of  printing  both  compositions,  and  declared  that 
they  will  fix  their  opinion  on  Friday,  the  31st  inst.,  at  12 
o'clock,  so  as  to  be  reported  to  the  General  Meeting  on  the 
1st  of  August  next,  and  copies  of  both  compositions  to 
be  sent  to  the  Members  of  Committee  before  the  day  of 
Meeting,  Mr  Macfarlane  to  be  employed  to  write  Shaw's 
composition  previous  to  printing,  and  to  be  allowed  some 
consideration  for  his  trouble." 

On  the  31st  July  the  sub-committee  again  met,  and 
xxxiii  c 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

"having  read  and  considered  the  compositions  of  the 
respective  candidates,  and  having  heard  the  same  again 
rehearsed  by  them  viva  voce,  declare  it  as  their  opinion 
that  these  performances  are  both  compositions  of  very 
considerable  poetic  merit,  but  that  on  the  whole  when  the 
nature  of  the  subject  and  the  manner  in  which  it  has  been 
treated  by  each  of  the  candidates  is  taken  under  view, 
the  Poem  composed  by  Donald  Shaw  appears  to  them  to 
possess  the  highest  [sic]  degree  of  comparative  merit,  and 
therefore  they  humbly  report  that  in  their  opinion  Donald 
Shaw  ought  to  be  elected  Bard  of  this  Society  with  the 
established  emoluments  of  the  Office.  At  the  same  time 
the  Committee  are  called  upon  from  a  sense  of  justice,  to 
declare  that  Duncan  Maclntyre''s  poetic  genius  as  appears 
from  his  present  and  other  compositions,  deserves 
encouragement,  and  in  particular  that  his  Eulogy  on  the 
Miisic  of  the  Pipe,  containing  a  masterly  description  of 
that  instrument,  is  a  performance  of  singular  merit,  and 
therefore  the  Committee  beg  leave  to  suggest  to  this 
Society  to  consider  his  case  to  recommend  him  to  the 
liberality  and  patronage  of  the  Highland  Society  of 
London,  as  well  as  to  bestow  on  him  some  mark  of  their 
own  approbation. 

"  On  hearing  the  above  report  the  same  was  unanimously 
approved  of,  and  a  Precept  ordered  to  be  issued  on  the 
Treasurer  in  favour  of  Duncan  Maclntyre  for  100 
merks."" 

So  ended  Duncan  Ban's  hopes  of  becoming  Bard 
to  the  Highland  and  Agricultural  Society  of  Scotland. 
In  ten  years,  however,  Nemesis  overtook  his  judges. 
It  will  be  better  to  hear  the   sentence   from  their  own 

mouth. 

xxxiv 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

6th  December  1799. — "Upon  resuming  the  consider- 
ation of  a  matter  frequently  in  view  of  the  Directors,  resolved 
to  recommend  to  the  ensuing  General  Meeting  to  discon- 
tinue the  offices  of  Gaelic  Professor  and  Bard,  as  totally 
unnecessary  and  a  misapplication  so  far  of  the  funds, 
neither  of  these  men  answering  the  purpose  of  their 
appointment,  and  that  their  names  shall  be  left  out  of  the 
establishment  for  the  present  year ;  at  same  time  that  it 
would  be  proper,  considering  the  severity  of  the  season,  to 
allow  them  a  year's  salary  each  when  their  names  were 
struck  off  the  Roll/' 

When  the  Breadalbane  Fencibles  were  raised  during 
the  Revolution  scare  in  1793,  he  joined  the  ranks  and  re- 
mained in  them  till  the  Battalion  was  disbanded  six  years 
later.  The  current  narrative  says  that  when  he  was  left 
as  cook  in  charge  of  the  mess  he  sometimes  entirely  forgot 
his  duties,  till,  admonished  by  the  arrival  of  his  hungry 
companions,  he  successfully  exerted  his  powers  to  make 
them  forget  that  they  had  not  dined.  He  himself  tells  us 
that  in  camp  they  did  not  spare  the  dram ;  and  doubtless 
to  that  period  his  convivial  songs  are  to  be  assigned.  Till 
his  enrolment  in  the  Fencibles  he  had  been  serving  in  the 
City  Guard,  and  to  their  ranks  he  returned  (p.  406,  note), 
retiring  finally  about  the  year  1806.  There  is  no  indica- 
tion of  where  or  how  he  spent  his  last  few  years,  except 
that,  we  are  assured,  he  lived  in  comfort  from  his  savings 
and  the  small  income  derived  from  the  Third  Edition  of 
his  poems. 

Once  or  twice  he  revisited  the  Highlands  on  business 
connected  with  his  poems.  He  was  accompanied  by  his 
wife,  and  when  the  report  spread  that  they  were  to  pass 
through   a   district,  the  interest  was  great.     It   is  still 

XXXV 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

remembered  that  at  Benderloch  the  children  were  let 
out  of  school  for  an  hour  or  two  in  order  to  see  the 
famous  pair.  Several  persons  are  still  living  who  recaU 
that  their  parents  saw  and  conversed  with  him  on 
these  occasions ;  but  we  must  depend  on  three  brief 
records  as  to  his  personal  appearance.  "I  knew  a 
Highland  lady,'"*  says  Principal  Shairp,  "  who  remem- 
bered to  have  seen  him  in  her  childhood  on  one  of 
these  occasions,  when  he  visited  her  father's  house  in 
Mull.  He  was  wandering  about  with  the  wife  of  his 
youth,  Fair  Young  Mary,  still  fair  though  no  longer 
young.  He  then  wore,  if  I  remember  aright,  a  tartan 
kilt,  and  on  his  head  a  cap  made  of  fox''s  skin.  He  was 
fair  of  hair  and  face,  with  a  pleasant  countenance  and 
a  happy,  attractive  manner.  An  amiable,  sweet-blooded 
man,  who  never,  it  is  said,  attacked  anyone  unprovoked ; 
but  when  he  was  assailed  he  could  repay  smartly  in 
that  satire  which  came  naturally  to  most  Highland 
Bards." 

The  Rev.  Mr  M'Callum  of  Arisaig  "  saw  him  travelling 
slowly  with  his  wife.  He  was  dressed  in  the  Highland 
garb,  with  a  checked  bonnet  over  which  a  large  bushy 
tail  of  a  wild  animal  hung,  a  badger's  skin  fastened  by 
a  belt  in  front,  a  hanger  by  his  side,  and  a  soldier's 
wallet  was  strapped  to  his  shoulders.  He  had  not  been 
seen  by  any  present  before  then,  but  he  was  immediately 
recognised.  A  forward  young  man  asked  him  if  it  was  he 
that  made  Ben  Dorain  ?  '  No,'  replied  the  venerable  old 
man,  '  God  made  Ben  Dorain,  but  I  praised  it.'  (An 
tusa  a  rinn  Beinn-dorain  f  ''S  e  Dia  a  rinn  Beinn-dorain, 
ach  is  mise  a  mhol  i.)     He  then  inquired  if  I  would  buy 

a  copy  of  his  book  ?     I  told  him  to  call  upon  me,  paid 

xxxvi 


BIOGKAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

him  three  shillings,  and  had  some  conversation  with  him. 
He  spoke  slowly.  He  seemed  to  have  no  high  opinion 
of  his  own  works,  and  said  little  of  Gaelic  poetry ; 
but  said  that  officers  in  the  army  used  to  tell  him 
about  the  Greek  poets,  and  Pindar  was  chiefly  admired 
by  him." 

The  most  recent  account  by  anyone  who  had  actually 
seen  the  poet  is  that  given  by  Rev.  John  Maclntyre. 
Himself  minister  at  Kilmonivaig,  he  was  the  son  of  Rev. 
Duncan  Maclntyre,  minister  at  Kilmallie,  and  of  Jean, 
daughter  of  James  the  poefs  chief.  On  the  occasion  of 
the  Festival,  2nd  September  1859,  when  the  monument  to 
the  poefs  memory  was  raised  on  Creagan-chaorach,  near 
the  Beacon  Hill  to  the  E.  of  Loch  Awe,  he  said : — 

"  Perhaps  there  are  not  many  here  who  have  seen  the 
bard.  It  was  my  privilege  when  very  young  to  have  seen 
him  at  my  father's  house,  accompanied  by  Mairi  Bhan 
Og.  I  remember  the  warm  and  even  respectful  welcome 
with  which  the  venerable  bard  and  his  Mary  were 
received  by  my  father,  and  how  he  placed  them  on  either 
side  of  him  at  the  dinner  table.  Duncan  Ban  was  then 
an  old  man  of  eighty  years,  but  stalwart  still,  hale  and 
hearty.  He  was  dressed  in  full  Highland  costume.  Mairi 
Bhan  Og  wore  a  most  becoming  and  beautiful  scarlet 
mantle  of  fine  cloth.  She  appeared  so  gentle  and 
amiable ;  and  retained  much  of  that  personal  beauty 
which  the  bard  so  happily  and  sweetly  described. 

"  As  to  the  moral  character  of  Duncan  Ban  Maclntyre, 
I  never  heard  a  whisper  of  disparagement ;  and,  whilst 
taking  a  limited  survey  of  the  productions  of  the  gifted 
poet  in  honour  of  whom  so  large  an  assemblage  has  met 
this   day,   and   who   so   happily   described   the   material 

xxxvii 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

workmanship  of  the  great  Architect  of  the  world,  it  is 
truly  pleasing  to  find  him  tune  his  lyre  to  loftier  strains, 
and  finally  giving  proof  that  a  good  work  had  been 
wrought  upon  and  in  himself  From  The  Conclusion  and 
The  Author's  own  Epitaph  we  learn  that  he  possessed 
clear  views  of  Divine  truth,  putting  his  whole  trust  for 
attaining  a  blessed  immortality  in  the  finished  work  of 
his  crucified  Saviour.  Thus  have  we  seen  the  glorious 
summer  sun,  which  during  a  long  day  had  warmed  and 
illumined  every  object  around  us,  in  the  evening  throw  out 
a  brighter  and  sweeter  effulgence  than  the  fierce  blaze  of 
noon,  and  that  when  about  to  disappear  and  sleep  in  the 
lap  of  ocean,  as  we  hope  and  trust  this  our  gifted 
fellowman  has  gone  to  sleep  in  Jesus — even  to  his  rest  in 
Him  who   is   the   bestower   of  every  good   and   perfect 

gift." 

Duncan  Maclntyre  was  in  many  ways  representative 
of  the  Highland  Celt.  A  tall  fair  man,  in  him  was 
united  a  healthy  vigorous  body  with  an  alert  and  well- 
balanced  mind,  which  was  as  full  of  shrewd  common  sense 
as  his  heart  was  full  of  feeling.  A  keen  observer  of 
nature,  in  his  time  a  great  traveller,  expert  with  his 
weapons,  fair  spoken  but  quick  at  repartee,  ostentatious 
as  far  as  good  taste  allowed,  leisurely  and  self-possessed, 
fond  of  country  and  of  kin,  fuU  of  humour  and  of  good 
humour,  transparently  simple  in  his  poems  and  in  his 
character,  profoundly  sympathetic,  and  with  a  sure  touch 
alike  for  description,  praise,  and  satire,  with  a  quick  ear 
and  exceUent  judgment,  and  a  clear  lyrical  simple  style 
which  was  always  copious,  sometimes  thoughtful,  he  had 
in  him  the  elements  of  greatness.     It  is  now  acknowledged 

by  the   many,   what   was   at   once   evident   to    the   few, 

xxxviii 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 


that  he  was  gifted  with  all  the  qualities  to  make  him 
a  successful  wooer  of  the  muse — the  Celtic  muse  who  is 
"quivering  with  life,  golden  with  love,  brimming  with 
kindly  humour,  and  explosive  with  bursts  of  Homeric 
laughter." 

Nature  having  fashioned  her  poet,  gave  him  his 
opportunity.  He  was  born  in  time  to  lisp  poetry  in  its 
sweetest  numbers,  to  hear  the  nightly  sgeul  with  its  wit, 
pathos,  and  marvellous  adventure,  while  as  yet  his  mother 
tongue  was  spoken  in  purity,  and  had  barely  entered  upon 
that  life  and  death  struggle  with  the  English  language 
which  increasingly  curtails  the  power  of  Gaelic  and  its 
audience.  Even  in  the  form  which  Gaelic  poetry  took, 
it  was  then  at  its  best  and  most  musical  period.  The 
trammels  of  the  old  syllabic  metres  were  broken,  the  tame 
and  featureless  imitation  of  English  measures  had  not 
begun,  the  mellifluous  system  of  vowel  cadences  was  in  its 
pristine  vigour.  He  had  the  education  which,  leaving 
him  undistracted  by  alien  influences,  drew  forth  his  best 
powers.  His  abilities,  intrinsically  of  the  highest  order, 
were  so  aided  by  upbringing  and  environment  that  he  has 
produced  unrivalled  poetry,  and  won  himself  a  name, 
Fair  Duncan  of  the  So7igs,  which  proclaims  him  the 
darling  of  a  whole  people.  Seen  in  truer  perspec- 
tive at  the  end  of  a  hundred  years,  his  stature  has  not 
diminished. 

He  has  been  called  the  "Burns  of  the  Highlands," 
and  with  some  truth.  Duncan  Ban  is  the  best  loved 
(Highlander  as  Burns  is  the  best  loved  Scot.  Both  were 
patural  and  spontaneous  singers,  both  sang  of  human  life 
[as  they  saw  it  with  their  own  eyes,  and  each  is  the  poet  of 

lis  own  people.     Each  of  them,  too,  was  unrivalled  in  his 

xxxix 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

conversational  powers.  Where  they  sat  was  the  head  of 
the  table.  In  the  ale-house  with  the  horned  moon 
hanging  in  the  corner  of  the  window  Burns  was  supreme : 
in  the  canteen  Duncan  Ban  had  no  competitor.  Here, 
however,  the  likeness  ends.  On  the  intellectual  side,  in 
wealth  of  ideas  of  practical  utility,  the  advantage  lies 
with  the  Lowlander :  in  consummate  mastery  of  his  own 
tongue — and  this  is  a  great  deal  to  say — the  advantage 
belongs  to  the  Highlander.  He  was  besides  clean-minded 
and  whole-hearted,  knowing  nothing  of  wounded  pride, 
disappointed  ambition,  of  free  love,  or  constitutional 
melancholy — for  of  Celtic  gloom  not  a  trace  is  discernible 
either  in  his  songs  or  in  his  character.  In  minor  details 
he  resembles  other  English  poets — Milton  and  Words- 
worth in  his  powerful  memory  for  his  own  lines,  Scott  in 
his  descriptions  of  natural  scenery,  Cowper  in  his 
theology,  and  Burns  and  Scott  in  thinking  little  of  his 
own  works.  Among  the  ancients  he  most  resembles 
Horace.  The  Highlander  lost  his  sword;  the  Roman 
threw  away  his  shield.  With  the  same  cheery  outlook  on 
human  life  both  of  them  write  poems  manifestly  intended 
to  please  or  to  amuse.  While  dealing  occasionally  a 
shrewd  blow,  they  neither  of  them  cultivate  the  gentle  art 
of  making  enemies ;  and  their  satires,  though  using  at 
times  a  regrettable  freedom,  for  the  most  part  end  in 
laughter. 

Of  the  poefs  own  works  his  greatest  effort.  The  Praise 
of  Ben  Dorain,  is  the  most  original,  standing  alone  in 
design  and  execution ;  and  the  mountain,  though  greatly 
changed  since  the  poet  looked  upon  it,  owing  to  the 
loss  of  the  wood  that  clothed  it  sides,  is  worthy  of  his 

xl 


[To  face  p.  xl. 


BIOGRAPHICAL  INTRODUCTION 

efforts.  Its  charms,  as  has  been  pointed  out,  are  of  a 
feminine  cast,  depending  less  on  height  and  rugged 
grandeur  than  on  the  clear  and  graceful  sweep  of  its 
outline,  in  which  it  is  perhaps  unrivalled  among  Scottish 
mountains.  As  long  as  the  poet's  words  are  known  and 
understood,  the  mountain  will  be  his  monument.  May 
time  deal  gently  with  the  bond  that  unites  the  name  of 
Duncan  Ban  to  Ben  Dorain. 


BEN  DORAIN. 

Majestic  Mountain  !  On  whose  graceful  side 
Fair  Duncan  of  the  Songs,  in  days  now  old 
As  three  half  centuries,  a  hunter  strolled 

In  freedom  :  from  his  passionate  heart  a  tide 

Of  song  the  rocky  corries  glorified, 
Pourtrayed  the  charm  of  stag,  bird,  wood,  and  wold ; 
And  Fair  Young  Mary  listened  when  he  told 

The  wondrous  tale  that  won  his  winsome  bride. 

Long  since  thy  poet  sang  his  "  Last  Farewell," 

A  "  thousand  blessings  "  on  the  mossy  dell, 

The  modest  heath-flower,  and  sweet  woman's  smile, 

The  moorland  breezes,  and  the  crystal  well ; 

Still  rests  the  benediction  on  thy  pile, 

And  o'er  the  scene  his  spirit  broods  the  while. 

G.  a 


ORAN  DO  CHLAIDHEAMH  MHIC  AN  LEISDEIR 
AGUS  DO  BHLAR  NA  H-EAGLAISE  BRICE.* 

Latha  dhuinn  air  Machair  Alba, 

Na  bha  dh'armailt  aig  a"  Chuigse, 

Thachair  iad  oirnne  na  reubail, 

'S  bu  neo-eibhinn  leinn  &  chuideachd ; 

'N  uair  a  chuir  iad  an  ratreud  oirnn,  6 

'S  iad  'nar  deidh  a  los  ar  murtadh, 

'S  mur  deanamaid  feum  leV  casan, 

Cha  tug  sinne  srad  le'r  musgan. 

'S  a"*  dol  an  coinneamh  a'  Phrionnsa 

Gu"'m  bu  shunntach  a  bha  sinne,  10 

Shaoil  sinn  gu'm  faigheamaid  cuis  deth 

'S  nach  robh  dhuinn  ach  dol  g'a  sireadh ; 

'N  uair  a  bhuail  iad  air  a  cheile 

'S  ard  a  leumamaid  a**  tilleadh, 

*S  ghabh  sinn  a  mach  air  an  abhainn  16 

■"S  dol  g'ar  n-amhaich  anns  an  linne. 

'N  am  do  dhaoine  dol  'nan  eideadh 

Los  na  reubalaich  a  thilleadh, 

Cha  do  shaoil  sinn,  gus  na  gheill  sinn, 

Gur  sinn  fein  a  bhidhte  ^g  iomaiu ;  flO 

*  'S  e  so  ceud  oran  an  Ughdair. 

2 


SONG  TO  THE  SWORD  OF  FLETCHER  AND 
THE  BATIXE  OF  FALKIRK.* 

Once  when  in  the  Scottish  Lowlands, 

We,  the  whole  Whig  army,  rested. 
On  us  chanced  to  come  the  rebels. 

Company  that  we  detested ; 
When  they  forced  us  to  retreat 

And  followed  with  intent  to  murder, 
If  we  had  not  used  our  feet 

We  never  had  with  guns  burnt  powder. 

"fwas  to  meet  the  Prince  advancing 

We  were  in  a  cheerful  spirit. 
For  we  thought  we'd  get  the  advantage 

And  had  but  to  go  seek  for  it ; 
But  when  they  struck  one  another 

High  we  should  have  leaped  returning. 
And  we  sprang  into  the  river 

To  our  necks  the  deep  pool  churning. 

When  our  men  went  in  their  war-gear 

To  turn  back  the  rebel  gentry, 
Little  thought  we,  till  we  yielded. 

We'd  be  hounded  round  the  country ; 

*  This  is  the  Author's  first  song. 
3 


BLAR  NA  H-EAGLAISE  BRICE 

Mar  gu'n  rachadh  cu  ri  caoraibh, 
■"S  iad  'nan  ruith  air  aodann  glinne, 
'S  ann  mar  sin  a  ghabh  iad  sgaoileadh 
Air  an  taobh  air  an  robh  sinne. 


Sin  'n  uair  thainig  each  's  a  dhearbh  iad  25 

Gu'm  bu  shearbh  dhuinn  dol  'nan  cuideachd, 

'S  e  'n  trup  Gallta  g'an  robh  chall  sin, 

Fhuair  iad  am  marbhadh  's  am  murtadh ; 

'S  ann  a  theich  sinn  as  na  cianaibh 

An  deidh  trian  againn  a  thuiteam,  30 

'S  cha  teid  mi  tuille  gu  dilinn 

Chuideachadh  le  Rlgh  na  Cuigse. 

Bha  na  h-eich  gu  cruidheach,  srianach, 

Girteach,  iallach,  fiamhach,  trupach ; 

'S  bha  na  fir  gu  h-armach,  foghluimt',  36 

Air  an  sonrachadh  gu  murtadh. 

'N  uair  a  thachair  riu  Clann  Domhnuill, 

Chum  iad  comhdhail  air  an  uchdan, 

'S  lionar  spoldaich  a  bha  leonta 

Air  an  Ion  an  deidh  tuiteam.  40 

Dh'eirieh  fuathas  anns  an  ruaig  dhuinn, 
'N  uair  a  dh"*  aom  an  sluagh  le  leathad ; 
Bha  Prionns"'  Tearlach  le  chuid  Frangach, 
'S  iad  an  geall  air  teachd  'nar  rathad : 
Cha  d'  fhuair  sinn  focal  comannd  46 

A  dh'iarraidh  ar  naimhdean  a  sgathadh ; 
Ach  comas  sgaoilidh  feadh  an  t-saoghail, 
'S  cuid  againn  gun  f  haotainn  f  hathast. 
4 


THE  BATTLE  OF  FALKIRK 

As  a  dog  might  rush  at  sheep-stock 

While  theyVe  scurrying  on  the  glenside, 

It  was  so  they  got  a  scattering, 

Those  that  were  upon  our  men's  side. 

Then  came  all  of  them  and  proved 

We'd  find  it  hard  to  face  them  further, 
'Twas  a  Lowland  troop  had  that  loss. 

They  experienced  death  and  murther ; 
When  a  third  of  us  had  fallen, 

We  fled  from  them  a  great  distance ; 
And  111  go  no  more  for  ever 

To  the  King  of  the  Whigs'*  assistance. 

Shod  and  bridled  were  the  horses. 

Girthed,  thonged,  skittish,  in  troop  order ; 
Armed  and  disciplined  the  forces. 

Specially  set  apart  to  murder. 
When  Clan  Donald  on  them  bounded, 

On  the  knoll  they  held  a  mauling, 
Many's  the  carcase  that  lay  wounded 

On  the  meadow  after  falling. 

In  the  rout  fear  broke  us  fairly 

When  the  enemy  moved  downward. 
With  his  Frenchmen  was  Prince  Charlie 

Settled  our  way  to  come  onward ; 
No  command  did  e''er  we  get 

Requiring  us  our  foes  to  shatter, 
But,  what  some  of  us  lack  yet. 

The  power  throughout  the  world  to  scatter. 
5 


BLAR  NA  H-EAGLAISE  BRICE 

Sin  'n  uair  thainig  mise  dhathaigh 

Dh**  ionnsuidh  Ghilleasbuig  o'n  Chrannaich,  50 

'S  ann  a  bha  e  'n  sin  cho  fiata 

Ri  broc  liath  a  bhiodh  an  garaidh ; 

Bha  e  duilich  anns  an  am  sin 

Nach  robh  ball  aige  r'a  tharruing, 

'S  mdr  an  diubhail  na  bha  dhith  air,  66 

Claidheamh  sinnsireachd  a  sheanar. 

Mdran  iaruinn  air  bheag  faobhair, 

Gu'm  b'e  sud  aogas  a**  chlaidheimh ; 

'S  e  gu  lubach,  leumnach,  bearnach, 

'S  bha  car  cam  ann  anns  an  amhaich ;  60 

Dh'  fhag  e  mo  chruachann-sa  bruite 

Bhi  'ga  ghiulan  feadh  an  rathaid. 

'S  e  cho  trom  ri  cabar  fearna, 

'S  mairg  a  dhT hairdeadh  an  robh  rath  air. 

'N  uair  a  chruinnich  iad  'nan  ceudan  65 

'N  la  sin  air  Sliabh  na  h-Eaglais, 

Bha  ratreud  air  luchd  na  Beurla, 

'S  ann  doibh  fein  a  b'  eiginn  teicheadh ; 

Ged  a  chaill  mi  anns  an  am  sin 

Claidheamh  ceannard  Chloinn  an  Leisdeir ;  70 

Claidheamh  bearnach  a'  mhi-fhortain, 

'S  ann  bu  choslach  e  ri  greidlein. 

Am  ball-teirmeisg  a  bha  meirgeach, 
Nach  dVinn  seirbhis  a  bha  dleasnach ; 
'S  beag  an  diubhail  leam  r'a  chunntadh  76 

Ged  a  dh'  ionndraich  mi  mu  f  heasgar, 
6 


THE  BATTLE  OF  FALKIRK 

Then  when  I  had  homeward  wended 

To  Gillespie  of  the  Old  Wood, 
There  he  raged  as  savage-minded 

As  a  grey  brock  in  his  hold  would ; 
At  that  time  he  was  right  sorry 

Weapon  to  draw  he  none  at  hand  had, 
At  his  loss  great  was  the  worry, 

The  heirloom  claymore  of  his  granddad. 

Mickle  iron  with  edge  full  little, 

Such  the  sword'^s  delineation. 
Bending,  starting,  and  fell  brittle, 

At  its  neck  a  bent  curvation  ; 
Bruised  it  left  my  hip  e'er  after 

With  carrying  it  along  the  highway, 
'Twas  heavy  as  an  alder  rafter, — 

Who  would  ask  if  luck  came  my  way  ? 

When  they  gathered  in  their  hundreds  | 

On  the  Falkirk  Slope  that  day,  | 

'Twas  the  English  folk  retreated — 

They  that  had  to  run  away ; 
Though  I  lost  on  that  occasion 

The  chief  of  Clan  Fletcher's  sword. 
The  notched  claymore  of  ill-luck, 

'Twas  like  a  bannock -turning  board. 


The  tool,  rusty  and  mischancy, 

That  performed  no  service  rightful — 

Little  loss  to  me,  I  fancy. 

Though  I  missed  it  about  nightfall ; 

7 


BLAR  NA  H-EAGLAISE  BRICE 

An  claidheamh  dubh  nach  d'f  huair  a  sguradh 

'S  neul  an  t-suith  air  a  leth-taobh ; 

'S  beag  a  b'f  hiu  e,  's  e  air  lubadh, 

'S  gu'm  b'e  diugha  de  bhuill-deis  e.  80 

An  claidheamh  braoisgeach  bh'aig  na  daoine 

Nach  dVinn  caonnag  's  nach  tug  buillean, 

Cha  robh  aogas  air  an  t-saoghal, 

'S  mairg  a  shaothraich  leis  an  cuimeasg ; 

An  claidheamh  dubh  air  an  robh  an  t-aimhleas       85 

Gun  chrios,  gun  chrambait,  gun  duille, 

Gun  roinn,  gun  f  haobhar,  gun  cheann-bheart, 

'S  mairg  a  tharladh  leis  an  cunnart. 

Thug  mi  leam  an  claidheamh  bearnach, 

■"S  Vole  an  asuinn  e  's  a'  chabhaig,  90 

Bhi  'ga  ghiulan  air  mo  shliasaid, 

'S  mairg  mi  riamh  a  thug  o'n  bhaiP  e : 

Cha  toir  e  stobadh  na  sathadh, 

'S  cha  robh  e  laidir  gu  gearradh ; 

Gu'm  b'e  diugha  de  bhuill  airm  e,  96 

'S  e  air  meirgeadh  air  an  fharadh. 

Chruinnich  uaislean  Earra-ghaidheal, 

Armailt  laidir  de  Mhilisi, 

'S  chaidh  iad  mu  choinneamh  Phrionns'  Tearlach, 

'S  duil  aca  r'a  champ  a  bhristeadh ;  lOO 

'S  ioma  fear  a  bh'  anns  an  ait  ud 

Nach  robh  sabhailt  mar  bha  mise, 

Ged  tha  mo  chlaidheamh  air  f  hagail 

Ann  am  Blar  na  h-Eaglais  Brice. 


THE  BATTLE  OF  FALKIRK 

The  black  sword  that  had  no  scouring, 
One  side  stained  a  sooty  colour, 

Little  worth  with  bends  and  clouring, 
Worst  of  pointed  tools  of  valour. 

The  indented  sword  the  men  had 

Who  nor  strove,  nor  fell  blows  hurled, 
Pity  him  that  toiled  in  fray  with  it, 

For  its  like  was  not  in  the  world ; 
Sheathless,  crampetless,  and  beltless. 

Black  sword  wedded  to  disaster. 
Without  point,  or  edge,  and  hiltless, 

Pity  him  in  peril  its  master. 


With  me  brought  I  the  notched  claymore, 

Wretched  weapon,  in  the  hurry. 
Slung  upon  my  hip  from  hame  o'er — 

Thence  I  brought  it,  but  Pm  sorry ; 
Stab  it  would  not  deal,  or  thrust. 

To  cut  it  was  not  to  be  trusted. 
Of  brands  of  war  the  very  worst. 

For  it  had  on  the  rafters  rusted. 

The  gentry  of  Argyllshire  mustered 

Militia,  a  powerful  make-up. 
And  they  went  to  meet  Prince  Charlie 

In  the  hope  his  camp  to  break  up. 
And  in  yon  place  many  a  man  was 

Who  was  not  saved,  as  I  find  me, 
Though  upon  the  Field  of  Falkirk 

Is  my  claymore  left  behind  me. 


ORAN  DO  THAILBEART 


ORAN  DO  THAILBEART  A  FHUARADH  O 
BHANRIGH  MAIRI. 

Deoch  slainte  Righ  Deorsa 

Gu'n  olainn  air  thus, 

Le  onoir  's  le  buaidh 

Nan  daoin''  uaisP  tha  'na  chuirt, 

Le  Seanalair  Hallaidh  5 

Is  Maidsear  Cothun, 

Gun  di-chuirnhn"*  air  M^iri, 

Bean  mhalda  mo  ruin. 

Mo  bheannachd  gu  brath 

Aig  a'  Bhan-righ  nach  beo  ;  10 

'S  ann  aic^  a  bha  Mairi 

G'a  h-arach  's  i  6g ; 

Bean  shiobhalta,  shamhach, 

'S  i  narach  gu  leoir ; 

""N  uair  theid  mi'n  tigh-thairne,  16 

'S  i  phaigheadh  na  stoip. 

'S  tu  chumadh  an  cothrom 

'S  an  onair  ud  rium, 

'S  a  chuireadh  am  sporan 

Na  dolair  's  na  cruin  :  20 

Ged  a  dh'  olainn  leann  laidir, 

Fion  Spainteach  is  rum, 

'S  tu  b'  urrainn  a  phaigh 

'S  tu  'n  ait  air  mo  chul. 


SONG  TO  A  HALBERT 


SONG  TO  A  HALBERT  WHICH  WAS  GOT 
FROM  QUEEN  MARY. 

A  HEALTH  to  King  George 

I  would  drink  at  the  start, 
With  honour  and  luck 

To  the  nobles  at  court, 
With  General  Hawley 

And  Major  Colquhoun, 
Forgetting  not  Mary, 

Mild  darling  my  own. 

My  blessing  for  aye 

On  the  Queen  that's  not  living ; 
'Twas  she  had  young  Mary 

Her  upbringing  giving ; 
A  quiet  kind  woman, 

And  modest  enough ; 
When  I  go  to  the  tavern, 

She'd  pay  for  the  stuff. 

You'd  keep  that  position 

And  honour  for  me. 
Which  would  put  in  my  purse 

Crowns  and  dollars  in  fee : 
Though  strong  ale  I  drank. 

Wine  of  Spain  and  rum  spirit, 
You  in  place  at  my  back. 

It  is  you  could  pay  for  it. 
II 


ORAN  DO  THAILBEART 

'N  uair  thiginn  leat  dathaigh  26 

Bharr  faich  an  rabhiu, 

"•S  tu  sinf  ann  am  bhreacan 

Bu  taitneach  learn  thu ; 

Gu''n  deanainn  do  thasgaidh 

Far  am  faicinn  do  ghnuis,  30 

Mo  Mhairi  dhonn  mhaiseach 

Air  ""n  do  leag  mi  mo  run. 

'S  ann  do  nighean  na  Ban-righ 

Thug  mi  gradh  is  mi  og^ 

O'n  a  fhuair  mi  air  laimh  i,  35 

Cha  robh  faillinn  am  Ion ; 

Fhuair  mi  coir  ort  o'n  Chaiptean 

Nach  tugainn  seachad  air  or, 

'S  ged  a  rachainn  am  blar  leat, 

Cha  n-fhagainn  thu  beo.  40 

""S  ann  a  fhuair  mis'*  an  toiseach, 

Leis  an  fhortan  a  bh'  ann, 

A'  bhean  as  diriche  pearsa 

Theid  a  mach  's  a'  chomannd  ; 

'S  a  dh"'aindeoin  na  h-aoise  45 

Cha  dean  i  h-aogas  a  chall, 

Cha  chaolaich  a  casan, 

'S  cha  mho  ghlasas  a  ceaim. 

Tha  Mairi  cho  boidheach 

Ri  mnaoi  oig  tha  'san  tir,  60 

'S  i  gun  uireasbhuidh  foghluim, 

Uasal,  moralach,  grinn ; 

12 


SONG  TO  A  HALBERT 

Home  with  you  when  I  reached 

From  the  Park  of  Review, 
In  my  belted  plaid  stretched 

Fond  was  I  of  you ; 
I  would  lay  you  up  where  I 

Your  face  at  a  glance  see, 
My  bonnie  brown  Mary, 

On  whom  IVe  set  my  fancy. 

It  is  the  Queen's  daughter 

I  loved  with  young  passion 
By  the  hand  since  IVe  got  her 

Ne'er  failed  my  provision ; 
From  the  Captain  IVe  right  to  you 

Which  for  gold  Fd  not  give. 
In  the  field  though  I  fight  with  you 

I'll  not  leave  you  and  live. 

I  at  first  got  as  mate 

By  good  fortune  in  hand, 
Wife  in  person  most  straight 

Figures  in  the  command ; 
And  in  spite  of  old  age 

Her  looks  will  not  impair, 
Her  limbs  become  slender. 

Or  whiten  her  hair. 

My  Mary  is  fair 

As  young  maid  in  the  land. 
She  has  no  lack  of  lear, 

Noble,  dignified,  bland ; 
13 


ORAN  DO  THAILBEART 

'S  e  m"'  aighear  's  mo  sholas 

Gu'm  bheil  i  posda  rium  fhein, 

'S  ged  a  theirig  dhuinn  storas,  66 

Gheibh  sinn  or  aig  an  Righ. 

Bidh  sinn  mV  aig  Righ  Deorsa, 

'S  cha  ghoraiche  dhuinn  ; 

O  's  ann  aige  tha  'n  storas 

Is  coir  air  a'  chrun ;  60 

Bheir  e  'm  paigh  'nar  dorn  duinn, 

'S  cha  n-iarr  e  oirnn  dad  g'a  chionn ; 

Gheibh  sinn  anart  is  aodach 

Cho  saor  ris  a*  bhurn. 

Cha  n'eil  trioblaid  r'a  chunntadh  65 

Air  muinntir  an  Righ, 

Ach  mireag  is  sugradh, 

"'S  bhi  gun  churam  do  ni ; 

Ged  a  dh'  olainn  na  galain 

A  h-uile  car  a  theid  diom,  70 

Cha  trodadh  mo  bhean  rium, 

'S  cha  leig  i  an  t-aran  am  dhith. 

'S  ann  agams'  tha  an  leannan 

Nach  'eil  feamach  na  brein, 

'S  i  'n  uaisF  tha  'na  mala  76 

Tha  cur  a  ceanail  an  ceill, 

'S  tha  mi  fad  ann  am  barail 

Nach  'eil  a  coimeas  fo'n  ghrein  ; 

'S  ni  mi  porsan  di  daingean. 

Ma  bhios  i  maireann  am  dheidh.  80 


14 


SONG  TO  A  HALBERT 

Tis  my  joy  and  my  solace 
Wed  to  me  she  will  cling, 

And  though  riches  fail  us, 
We'll  get  gold  from  the  King. 

We'll  be  all  for  King  George, 

'Tis  no  folly  to  own ; 
For  'tis  he  has  the  wealth 

And  the  right  to  the  crown; 
In  our  hand  he'll  put  pay. 

And  ask  nought  in  return  ; 
Well  get  linen  and  clothes 

Free  as  water  in  burn. 

There's  no  trouble  worth  reckoning 

On  the  folk  of  the  King, 
But  mirth  and  enjoyment 

And  no  care  for  one  thing ; 
Though  I  should  drink  gallons 

Every  turn  that  I  made, 
My  wife  would  not  scold  me, 

Or  let  me  want  bread. 

It  is  I  have  a  sweetheart 

Not  dirty  or  smelling ; 
'Tis  the  arch  of  her  eyebrow 

Her  high  birth  is  telling, 
I  am  firm  of  opinion 

Her  like's  not  alive ; 
I'll  safe  make  her  portion. 

If  me  she  survive. 


IS 


ORAN  DO'N  MHUSG 


ORAN  DO'N  MHUSG. 

'S  lOMADH  car  a  dh'fhaodas  tighinn  air  na  fearaibh, 
Is  theag'  gii'n  gabh  iad  gaol  air  an  te  nach  faigh  iad ; 
Thug  mi  fichead  bliadhna  do'n  cheud  te  ghabh  mi, 
Is  chuir  i  rithisd  cul  rium,  is  bha  mi  falamh. 

Is  thainig  mi  Dhun-eideann  a  dh'iarraidh  leannain,  5 

Is  thuirt  an  Caiptean  Caimbeul,  's  e  "n  geard  a'  bhaile, 
Gu'm  b'aithne  dha  banntrach  an  aite  falaich, 
'S  gu'n  deanadh  e  aird  air  a  cur  am  charaibh. 

Rinn  e  mar  a  b'abhaist  cho  maith  's  a  ghealladh, 
Thug  e  dhomh  air  laimh  i,  's  am  paigh  mar  ri ;  10 

Is  ge  b'e  bhios  a'  feoraich  a  h-ainm  no  sloinneadh, 
Their  iad  rithe  Seonaid,  's  b'  e  Deorsa  a  seanair. 


Tha  i  soitheamh,  suairce,  gun  ghruaim,  gun  smalan 

Is  i  cho  ard  an  uaisle  ri  mnaoi  'san  fhearann ; 

Is  culaidh  am  chumail  suas  i,  o'n  tha  i  mar  rium,  16 

Is  mdr  an  t-aobhar  smuairein  do'n  fhear  nach  faigh  i. 


Leig  mi  dhiom  Nic  Coiseam  ged  tha  i  maireann. 

Is  leig  mi  na  daimh  chrocach  an  taobh  bha  'n  aire. 

Is  thaobh  mi  ris  an  6g-mhnaoi,  's  ann  leam  nach  aithreach, 

Cha  n'eil  mi  gun  storas  o'n  phos  mi  'n  ainnir.  20 

i6 


SONG  TO  THE  MUSKET 


SONG  TO  THE  MUSKET. 

There's  many  a  change  of  fortune  the  men  folk  may  beset, 
Perhaps  they'll  love  the  lady  that  they  will  never  get ; 
A  score  of  years  I  gave  to  the  first  that  me  had  taken, 
She  turned  her  back  on  me  again,  and  I  was  forsaken. 

I  came  to  Dunedin  to  seek  for  a  sweetheart,  [guard) 

Then  said  Captain  Campbell  (he's  in  the  Town  street- 
That  he  knew  a  widow  who  in  a  secluded  place  was. 
And  means  he  would  take  to  put  her  in  my  embraces. 

He  performed  as  usual  as  well  as  he  stated ; 
He  put  her  in  my  hand,  and  the  pay  with  her  equated. 
And  whoever  will  be  asking  her  name,  or  surname  rather, 
Ifs  Janet  that  they  call  her,  and  George  was  her  grand- 
father. 

She's  gentle,  and  pleasant,  and  without  gloom  or  sadness. 
She  is  as  high  in  rank  as  any  lady  in  the  land  is ; 
The  means  of  my  upkeep,  she's  my  mate  and  there's  no 
better,  [not  get  her. 

And  great  the  cause  for  grief  is  to  the  man  that  will 

I  quitted  Cosham's  daughter  although  she  still  existed, 
And  I  let  the  antlered  stags  go  any  way  they  listed, 

^;    And  I  drew  to  the  young  woman,  and  it's  I  that  don't 

^      regret  it. 

For  1  am  not  without  wealth  since  the  maiden  IVe  mated. 

17  B 


ORAN  DO'N  MHUSG 

Bheir  mi  fhein  mo  bhriathar  gu  bheil  i  ro  mhaith, 

Is  nach  d'aithnich  mi  riamh  oirre  oron  am  falach, 

Ach  gu  foinneamh,  f  inealta,  direach,  fallain, 

Is  i  gun  ghaoid,  gun  ghiomh,  gun  char  fiar,  gun  chamadh. 


Bithidh  i  air  mo  ghiulain,  ''s  gur  maith  an  airidh,  25 

Ni  mi  fhein  a  sguradh  gu  maith  's  a  glanadh ; 
Chuirinn  ri  an  t-uille  g'a  cumail  ceanalt", 
Is  cuiridh  mi  ri  m'  shuil  i  's  cha  diult  i  aingeal. 

^N  uair  bhios  cion  an  storais  air  daoinibh  ganna, 

Cha  leigeadh  nighean  Deorsa  mo  phoca  falamh  ;  30 

Cumaidh  i  rium  61  anns  na  tighibh-leanna, 

'S  paighidh  i  gach  stopan  a  ni  mi  cheannach. 

Ni  i  mar  bu  mhiann  leam  a  h-uile  car  dhomh, 
Cha  n-innis  i  breug  dhomh,  no  sgeul  am  mearachd 
Cumaidh  i  mo  theaghlach  cho  maith  **s  bu  mhaith  leam,  35 
Ge  nach  dean  mi  saothair  no  obair  shalach. 

Sgithich  mi  ri  gniomh,  ge  nach  dVinn  mi  earras, 

Thug  mi  bdid  nach  fhiach  leam  bhi  ann  am  sgalaig, 

Sguiridh  mi  g'am  phianadh,  o'n  thug  mi  'n  aire 

Gur  e  'n  duine  diomhain  as  f  haide  mhaireas.  40 


"■S  i  mo  bheanag  ghaolach  nach  dean  mo  mhealladh, 
'S  foghnaidh  i  dhomh  daonnan  a  dheanamh  arain ; 
Cha  bhi  faillinn  aodaich  orm  no  anairt, 

"'S  chaidh  curam  an  t-saoghail  a  nis  as  m"'aire. 

i8 


SONG  TO  THE  MUSKET 

I  myself  will  give  my  word  that  she  is  quite  excelling, 
And  that  I've  never  seen  in  her  a  secret  fault  or  failing, 
But  she  is  fine  and  handsome  and  straight,  she  wants  no 

mending, 
She's   flawless   and   faultless,  with  no  perverse  twist  or 

bending. 

She  will  be  carried  by  me,  and  worthy  her  demeanour, 
I  myself  will  scour  her  well,  and  well  will  I  clean  her ; 
I  would  put  oil  upon  her  to  keep  her  beauty  peerless, 
And  to  my  eye  FU  put  her,  and  she  will  never  fire  miss. 

When  there  is  want  of  riches  to  men  that  are  scanty, 
George's  daughter  ne'er  would  let  my  pocket  be  empty ; 
And  in  the  alehouses  with  drink  she'll  supply  me. 
And  she'll  pay  every  stoupie  that  I'll  ever  buy  me. 

She'll  do  as  I  desire  her  at  every  juncture  for  me. 
No  lie  will  she  tell  me,  and  no  misleading  story ; 
She'll  maintain  my  family  as  well  as  I'd  wish  to. 
Although  I'll  do  no  labour,  or  dirty  work  rush  through. 

I  wearied  with  exertion,  though  riches  I  secured  none, 

I  vowed  not  to  demean  me  to  become  a  farmhand ; 

And   I   shall    cease   to   plague    myself,  because   I   have 

observed 
That  'tis  the  idle  man  who  the  longest  is  preserved. 

She's  my  dear  little  wifie  that  never  will  deceive  me, 
And  aye  she  will  suffice  to  make  bread  to  relieve  me ; 
Of  clothes  on  me  or  linen  there  will  be  no  slackening. 
And  now  worldly  care  has  gone  out  of  my  reckoning. 

19 


I 


ORAN  DO'N  RIGH 


ORAN  DO'N  RIGH. 

'S  I  DEOCH  slainf  an  Righ  as  aill  leinn, 

Sin  an  ioc-shlainf  alainn,  uasal, 

Bhi  'ga  h-61  de  dh'fhion  na  Spainte, 

Na  de  phuinnse  laidir,  uaibhreach  ; 

'N  uair  a  bhios  i  air  a  stracadh  5 

Cho  Ian  's  a  chumas  na  cuachan, 

Ge  Ve  lamh  an  dean  i  tachairt 

'S  coir  gu'm  faiceadh  e  mu^n  cuairt  i. 

'S  mdr  an  sonas  th'  anns  an  rioghachd 

Cn  chaidh  an  Righ  so  chrunadh,  10 

Anns  an  ait  a  bh'  aig  a  shinnsreachd, 

An  d''£huair  a  sheann-seanair  coir-dhuthchais ; 

Albainn,  is  Sasunn,  is  Eirinn, 

Nis  ag  geilleachdainn  do'n  aon  fhear, 

Mar  nach  fhacas  iad  riamh  roimhe  16 

O'n  a  chothaicheadh  air  thus  iad. 

'S  mor  an  t-agh  a  tha  air  an  oigear, 

An  treas  Deorsa  shuidh  's  a'  chathair. 

Cha  n'eil  righ  anns  an  Roinn  Eorpa 

Chumas  comhrag  ris  le  claidheamh  ;  20 

'S  6g  a  thoisich  e  ri  cruadal, 

'S  tha  bhuannachd  gu  trie  'na  lamhan, 

Fearann  chaich  'ga  shior-thoirt  uapa, 

'S  a  h-uir  aite  fhuair  e  ghleidheadh. 

20 


SONG  TO  THE  KING 


SONG  TO  THE  KING. 

Here's  the  health  of  our  loved  Sovereign, 

Thafs  the  splendid,  noble  cordial, 
In  the  wine  of  Spain  to  drink  it, 

Or  in  punch,  a  heady  ordeal ; 
When  it's  filled  to  overflowing. 

Primed  as  full  as  cups  will  carry, 
Round  he  ought  to  see  it  going 

In  whose  hands  it  chanced  to  tarry. 

Great  the  weal  that's  in  this  kingdom 

Since  this  King  got  crowned  possession, 
Here  his  line  ruled,  his  great  grandsire 

Had  secured  right  of  succession  ; 
Scotland,  England,  Ireland,  e'en  to 

One  man  yield,  and  now  are  mated. 
As  they  ne'er  before  were  seen  to. 

Since  they  first  were  subjugated. 

Great  success  has  the  young  prince  had, 

George  the  Third  who  on  the  throne  sat, 
There  is  not  a  king  in  Europe 

Can  with  sword  meet  him  in  onslaught ; 
He  began  his  young  powers  testing. 

In  his  hands  remains  the  profit. 
Land  of  others  from  them  wresting. 

He  aye  kept  what  he  got  of  it. 


ORAN  DO'N  RIGH 

'S  iomadh  ait  an  robh  chuid  armailt,  25 

Cliiiiteach,  ainmeil  'n  uair  a  thairnf  iad ; 

A  choisichean  luthor,  calma, 

Is  trup  meanmnach  nan  each  laidir ; 

Bha  Eireannaich,  Goill,  is  Sasnaich, 

'Nan  gaisgich  an  tir  an  namhaid,  30 

'S  mairg  a  thachradh  air  na  fearaibh 

'N  uair  a  theannadh  iad  ri  lamhach. 

Anns  a  h-uile  cas  is  cunnart, 

'S  mdr  an  t-urram  fhuair  na  Gaidheil, 

'S  bhathas  greis  'gan  cur  an  duileachd,  35 

Mar  nach  buineadh  iad  do'n  phairtidh ; 

Ach  'n  uair  fhuair  iad  meas  is  creideas, 

'S  a  chreideadh  nach  deanadh  iad  faillinn, 

'S  iad  bu  sheasmhaich'  air  an  onair 

A  thug  lann-sholuis  a  sgabart.  40 

Bha  iad  bras  a  h-uile  latha, 

Ri  am  catha  dol  'sna  blaraibh ; 

Chaidh  gach  duine  dhiubh  air  chruadal, 

'S  ann  orra  bha  buaidh  gach  larach : 

Bha  commisean  aig  gach  oigear,  46 

'S  e  toirt  ordugh  d'a  hhataillean^ 

'S  iad  cho  tairis  do  Righ  Deorsa, 

""S  a  bhiodh  na  leomhain  dh'an  cuid  alaich. 

Bha  chairt-iuil  is  cuibhP  an  f  hortain, 

Bha  seoid  sC  chogaidh  gu  leir  leat ;  50 

Anns  a  h-uile  blar  a  bh'  aca, 

Rinn  Mars  na  bu  choir  dha  fein  deth : 

22 


SONG  TO  THE  KING 

Many's  the  place  where  was  his  army, 

Famed,  renowned,  the  marshalled  forces ; 
Vigorous  and  brave  his  footmen. 

Mettled  troops  of  powerful  horses ; 
They  were  Irish,  Scots,  and  English, 

Heroes,  hostile  lands  invading. 
Pity  him  who  them  encountered 

When  they  took  to  enfilading. 

In  aU  crises  and  all  dangers. 

Great  distinction  the  Gael  there  got ; 
Albeit  for  a  while  suspected, 

As  they  of  the  party  were  not ; 
When  they  gained  esteem  and  credit, 

And  no  doubt  of  them  was  harboured, 
The  most  steadfast  they  in  honour 

That  drew  blade  of  light  from  scabbard. 

Every  day  they  were  impetuous, 

Going  in  war  to  fields  of  battle ; 
In  each  field  was  victory  with  them. 

For  each  man  went  on  his  mettle  ; 
A  commission  had  each  youthful 

Hero,  ordering  his  battalions. 
To  King  George  they  were  as  faithful, 

As  the  lions  to  their  young  ones. 

The  compass,  wheel  of  fortune, 

With  you  all  the  gods  of  wars  were ; 

Every  battle-field  they  fought  in. 
His  own  part  of  it  did  Mars  bear  ; 
23 


ORAN  DO'N  HIGH 

'N  am  do  loingeis  bhi  'gan  gluasad, 

Chuir  jEoIus  fuaim  le  d'  bhreidean ; 

Thug  Neptune  cothrom  a'  chuain  duit —  55 

""S  CO  bha  uait  a  dheanadh  feum  dhuit  ? 

Bha  iia  gearasdain  cho  daingean 

'S  gu'm  b''  amaideach  dol  g'an  seisdeadh, 

Aghaidh  laidir  air  gach  balla 

Chum  nam  Barag  a  bhi  gleidhteach  ;  60 

Rampair  ard  nach  rachta  thairis, 

Batraidh  's  canain,  orra  gleusta, 

Bu  mhairg  a  bhiodh  roimh  an  anail 

'N  uair  a  theannadh  iad  ri  geisgil. 

Gach  righ  a  thoisich  at  aghaidh,  66 

Ghabh  iad  mar  roghainn  an  diugha, 

'S  ionann  sin  's  mar  dh'eirich  dhaibhsan, 

'S  mdr  a  chaill  iad  air  a'  chuis  ud  ; 

Thug  thu  tarruing  bharr  an  Fhrangaich, 

^S  fhuair  thu  ceanglaichean  is  cumhnant  70 

Nach  togadh  e  rithisd  fangar, 

Mu'n  eireadh  aimhleas  ni  bu  mho  dha. 

Bha  Ban-righ  Hungaraidh  gorach, 
'N  uair  a  thoisich  i  ri  stri  riut ; 
'S  cha  bu  ghhce  Righ  na  Spainte,  76 

Thoisich  e  gu  dana  miomhail : 
Ged  a  bha  an  dithisd  ud  laidir, 
'S  righ  no  dha  a  bh'anns  na  h-Innsean, 
Fhuair  thu  dhiubh  gach  cuis  a  dh'iarr  thu, 
'S  tha  na  fiachan  air  an  dioladh.  80 

24 


SONG  TO  THE  KING 

When  you  set  your  ships  in  motion, 
In  your  sails  was  ^Eolus  panting ; 

Neptune  gave  fair-play  on  the  ocean — 
Who  could  serve  you  and  was  wanting  ? 

And  the  garrisons  so  strengthened 

That 't  were  foolish  going  to  take  them, 
On  each  wall  strong  faceworks,  lengthened 

Round  the  barracks  safe  to  make  them ; 
Ramparts  high  could  not  be  passed  o'er, 

Batteries,  cannon  on  them  looming. 
Pity  him  before  the  breath  of  them 

When  they  were  set  a-booming. 

Each  king  that  began  against  you 

Made  the  choice  and  got  the  worst  o'  it 
Even  so  it  fared  with  them,  too. 

Therefore  much  they  lost  that  durst  do  it ; 
You  a  pull  got  o'er  the  Frenchman, 

You  got  bonds  and  undertaking 
He'd  again  not  rouse  your  anger. 

Lest  worse  harm  for  him  was  making. 

The  Hungarian  Queen  was  foolish. 

She  began  to  strive  against  you ; 
And  the  King  of  Spain,  no  wiser. 

Bold,  unmannerly,  commenced  too : 
Although  yon  two  proved  high-handed 

As  a  king  or  two  in  the  Ind  did. 
You  got  all  points  you  demanded. 

And  the  debts  are  all  refunded. 
25 


ORAN  DO'N  RIGH 

Tha  an  Righ  a  nis  mar  as  aill  leis, 

'S  sabhailt  a  dh'  fhaodas  e  laighe, 

Tharruing  e  gu  tir  a  chabhlach, 

'S  cha  n'eil  feum  air  camp  a  ghleidheadh : 

Gach  duine  bha  dha  'nan  naimhdean,  85 

Chinn  iad  da  'nan  cairdean  matha, 

'S  tha  iad  uile  dha  cho  dileas, 

'S  dh'  fhuirich  an  t-siochadh  sin  fhathast. 

An  ceithir  airdean  an  t-saoghail 

Tha  fearann  is  daoin'  aig  Deorsa  :  90 

'S  tha  chinn-eaglais  anns  gach  aite 

Chum  an  sabhaladh  o  dho-bheairt ; 

Tha  lagh  is  parlamaid  aca, 

Chumail  ceartais  riu  is  corach  ; 

'S  tha  mheirr  an  deidh  a  casgadh,  95 

Sguir  na  creachan  is  an  torachd. 

Bidh  a  h-uile  diuc  is  iarla 

Mar  as  miann  leo  am  fad  as  beo  thu ; 

'S  gheibh  gach  morair,  is  gach  tighearn\ 

A  h-uile  dligheadh  as  coir  dhaibh ;  100 

Tha  daoin-uaisF,  is  tuath  an  fhearainn 

Mar  as  maith  leo  thaobh  an  storais  ; 

Tha  luchd-ciuird  a"*  faotainn  cosnaidh, 

'S  cha  n'eil  duine  bochd  gun  phorsan. 

Tha  toradh  am  fas  na  talmhainn,  105 

Gu  miosach,  arbharach,  porach  ; 
Chinn  an  spreidh  gu  bliochdach,  bainnear 
Sona,  sliochdar,  sailleach,  feolmhor : 
26 


SONG  TO  THE  KING 

Now  the  king  is  as  he  would  be. 

Safe  as  could  be  he's  remaining, 
He  his  fleet  to  land  has  drawn  up, 

Camp  there's  no  need  for  maintaining ; 
All  the  men  that  were  his  foemen 

Have  to  him  become  his  friends  good, 
They  are  all  so  faithful  to  him 

That  that  peace  has  still  all  strain  stood. 

In  the  wide  world's  four  quarters 

George  has  land  as  well  as  brave  men : 
And  in  each  place  heads  of  churches 

From  iniquity  to  save  men  ; 
They  have  law  and  parliament,  too. 

Justice,  right,  for  them  maintaining ; 
Thieving  has  been  put  a  stop  to. 

Plunder,  pillage — none  remaining. 

All  the  Dukes  and  Earls  will  flourish 

As  they  wish  while  you  are  living ; 
To  each  Viscount,  Baron,  all  duty, 

As  befits  them,  will  be  given  ; 
And  the  gentlemen,  and  tacksmen. 

As  they  would,  enjoy  their  fortune; 
Artizans  are  getting  wages. 

No  poor  man  without  a  portion. 

There  is  increase  in  the  earth's  growth. 
Fruits,  corn,  seed  abundant,  fresh,  full ; 

Kine  grown  rich  in  milk  and  cream  rowth, 
Happy,  fat,  prolific,  fleshful ; 
27 


ORAN  DO'N  RIGH 

Tha  sitheann  air  sliabh  gach  garbhlaich, 
Sealgairean  a'  faotainn  sporsa,  110 

'S  tha  tighinn  air  iasg  na  fairge, 
■"S  pailt  an  t-airgiod  ri  linn  Dheorsa. 

'S  mdr  a  rinn  e  dh'  fhearas-tighe, 

Sgaoil  e  h-uile  maitheas  oirnne, 

Chuir  e  drochaid  air  gach  alltan,  115 

'S  reitich  e  na  raidean-mdra ; 

Chuir  e  sgoil  's  a  h-uile  gleann, 

A  los  gu'm  faigheadh  ar  clann  foghlum ; 

'S  gheibh  sinn  airm  is  eudach  Gaidhleach, 

O  's  e  "'s  fhearr  leinn  gu  bhi  sporsail.  120 

'S  e  as  airde  de  na  flathaibh, 

'S  am  mac-ratha  o  thus  oige, 

Ceannard  laidir  's  a  h-uir  ionad 

Air  gach  fine,  's  air  gach  seorsa ; 

Tital  Bhreatuinn  is  na  Frainge,  125 

Tha  na  banntan  sin  'na  phoca, 

Staoile  Eireann,  Steigh  a'  Chreideimh, 

G'a  chumail  creideasach  an  ordugh. 

Gu  meal  thu  do  chrun  's  do  chathair, 

T'uinein,  do  chlaidheamh,  's  do  mhorchuis,  130 

'S  do  theaghlach  mdr,  rioghail,  cliuiteach, 

'S  an  luchairt  a  bheil  thu  chomhnuidh  ; 

Ge  b'e  uair  a  thig  an  aois  ort, 

Na  chaochlas  tu  bharr  an  t-sedil  sin, 

Gu'm  bi  do  mhac-oighre  sabhailt,  135 

Ann  at  kite  mar  as  coir  dha. 


28 


SONG  TO  THE  KING 

Venison  is  on  each  rough  slope, 

Finding  good  sport  is  the  killer, 
And  the  fish  of  the  sea  are  taking. 

In  this  reign  is  scouth  of  siller. 

Much  of  home  reform  he  accomplished, 

Every  good  on  us  bestowing, 
Put  a  bridge  on  every  streamlet, 

Turnpikes  opened  for  smooth  going ; 
Every  glen  he  put  a  school  in. 

That  our  bairns  get  education  ; 
We'll  get  arms  and  Highland  clothing. 

For  we're  fond  of  ostentation. 

He's  the  highest  of  the  princes, 

Son  of  grace  from  childhood  inbred, 
A  strong  ruler  in  all  places 

Over  every  tribe  and  kindred ; 
Title  both  of  France  and  Britain — 

In  his  pocket  are  these  pledges, 
Style  of  Ireland,  Faith  Defender, 

Keeping  him  faithful  to  the  lieges. 

May  you  enjoy  your  crown,  and  throne. 

Your  orb,  your  sword,  and  your  great  calling. 
Your  great  family,  royal,  famous. 

And  the  palace  where  you're  dwelling ; 
And  whene'er  old  age  comes  on  you. 

Or  you  change  from  that  condition. 
May  your  heir- male  be  securely, 

As  he  should,  in  your  position. 


29 


MORAIR  GHLEANN  URCHAIDH 


ORAN  DO  MHORAIR  GHLEANN  URCHAIDH. 

Sgeul  a  b'ait  learn  r*a  innseadh 
Mu'n  6g  aigeannach,  riomhach, 
Laoineach,  bhasdalach,  phriseil, 
Chaoimhneil,  mhacanta,  shiobhailt, 
A  rinn  gach  heart  a  bha  rloghail,  5 

Ann  an  ceartas  's  am  firinn, 
O  thoiseach  na  stri  so  thainior  : 
O  thoiseach  na  stri  so,  &c. 

'S  iomadh  ait  a  bheil  cliu  ort 

Nach  robh  'm  pairtidh  do  dhuthcha,  10 

Sheas  thu  dana  gun  churam, 

Gun  fhaillinn,  gun  lubadh 

Gu  neo-sgathach  le  durachd, 

Anns  an  aite  bu  run  leat, 

Far  na  gheall  thu  o  thus  a  bhi  cairdeach.  15 

'S  an  am  gluasaid,  na  carraid, 

Bha  thu  cruadalach,  fearail, 

Mar  bu  dual  duit  o  d'  sheanair, 

Choisinn  buaidh  ann  an  Gallaibh, 

'N  uair  a  bhuannaich  e  'm  fearann,  20 

Bha  na  Tuathaich  gun  anam, 

'N  deis  an  ruagadh  's  an  gearradh  ''san  araich. 

Laoich  ghleusda  gun  tioma, 
Bu  mhdr  feum  anns  an  iomairt, 
Nach  geilleadh  le  gioraig,  25 

Fhuair  iad  reite  le  milleadh, 
30 


SONG  TO  LORD  GLENORCHY 


SONG  TO   LORD   GLENORCHY. 

A  TALE  I'd  gladly  be  telling 
Of  a  youth  bright,  excelling, 
Handsome,  gay,  dear,  refined. 
Mild,  and  courteous,  and  kind. 
Has  all  loyal  deeds  done. 
In  truth  and  justice  each  one, 
Ever  since  this  fell  strife  first  begun : 
Ever  since  this  fell  strife,  &c. 

Many  a  place  knows  your  fame, 

Where  your  clansmen  ne'er  came. 

You  took  bold  dauntless  stand. 

Without  failing  or  bend. 

Undaunted,  not  blindly. 

In  the  place  you  loved  kindly 

Where  you  pledged  yourself  first  to  be  friendly. 

In  time  of  conflict,  or  move, 

Manly,  brave,  did  you  prove. 

From  your  grandsire  your  way, 

Who  won  in  Caithness  the  day. 

When  their  land  he  possessed. 

Were  the  Northmen  depressed. 

Cut  down  in  the  field,  or  thence  chased. 

Heroes  trim  sans  dismay. 
Of  great  deeds  in  the  fray. 
Who  would  not  yield  through  skaith, 
But  got  concord  by  death, 
31 


MORAIR  GHLEANN  URCHAIDH 

'S  cha  b"*  i  **n  eucoir  a  shir  iad ; 

'S  mdr  V  fheums"*  air  bhi  sgileil, 

O  ^s  tu  fein  a  tha  'n  ionad  nan  armunn. 

Sar  cheannard  gach  fin''  thu,  30 

Deagh  mhaighstir  nan  gillean, 

'S  an  comanndair  gun  tioma 

An  tus  aimhreit  no  iomairt, 

Nach  dean  parladh  a  shireadh 

Le  d'  lanntaibh  geur,  biorach,  35 

Bhiodh  calldach  is  iomain  air  namhaid. 

'S  bidh  do  chinneadh  mdr  fhein  leat 

Anns  gach  cunnart  an  teid  thu, 

'S  iad  gu  fuileachdach,  feumail 

Bhualadh  bhuillean  is  speicean  ;  40 

'S  honmhor  curaidh  ""na  eideadh 

Bhios  ullamh  gu  eirigh, 

An  am  dhuit  a  bhi  'g  eigheach  crois-taraidh. 

'S  iomadh  caraid  mu''n  cuairt  duit 

Eadar  Bealach  is  Cruachan,  45 

Leis  ""m  bu  mhaith  thu  bhi  "'n  uachdar 

Le  neart  tein'  agus  luaidhe, 

'S  nan  lann  tana,  geur,  cruaidhe, 

Rachadh  mar  riut  g'am  bualadh, 

'N  uair  a  thogadh  tu  suaicheantas  arda.  50 

■^S  'n  uair  a  sgaoilte  do  bhratach 
Ri  crann  caol,  direach,  snaidhte, 
Os  cionn  dhaoin'  air  an  fhaiche, 
Chluinnte  gleadhraich  nam  marcach 
32 


SONG  TO  LOKD  GLENORCHY 

No  injustice  they  willed  ; 

You've  great  need  to  be  skilled, 

Since  the  place  of  the  leaders  you  filled. 

Noble  chief  of  each  clan 

You,  good  master  of  men. 

And  their  head  sans  dismay, 

Come  disorder  or  fray, 

Who  would  never  ask  terms. 

With  your  sharp-pointed'  arms 

On  the  foe  would  fall  loss  and  alarms. 

Your  kin  will  not  fail  you. 

Though  perils  assail  you. 

Bloody,  valiant  are  those 

To  deal  fell  thrusts  and  blows  ; 

Many  brave  in  war-guise 

Will  be  ready  to  rise 

At  the  time  when  your  fiery  cross  cries. 

Round  you  many  a  friend  o'er 
'Tween  Cruachan  and  Ken  more 
Wishing  you  to  be  head 
By  dint  of  fire  and  of  lead. 
And  of  thin,  sharp  steel  brands. 
Goes  with  you,  these  in  hands. 
Where  lofty  your  standard  upstands. 

When  your  banner  is  spread 
At  slim  straight  staff  well-sned. 
O'er  men  on  the  sward 
Horsemen's  clang  would  be  heard 
33 


MORAIR  GHLEANN  URCHAIDH 

Bu  ghreadhnaiche  tartar  ;  55 

Na  cinn-fheadhna  's  na  gaisgich 

Le  maoim  bheirf  a  mach  leo  buaidh-larach. 

Reachdar,  ardanach,  rnorchuis', 

Duineal,  ceannsalach,  seolta, 

Marcach  ard  nan  each  mora,  60 

Bu  mhdr  srann,  's  bu  mhaith  foghlum ; 

Fasan  Gallda  gu  leoir  ort, 

'S  maith  thig  ad  a'  bhil  oir  dhuit, 

Air  chul  clannach  bu  bhoidhche  ""measg  Ghaidheal. 

Aghaidh  mhacanta,  chaoimhneil,  65 

Mhalda,  mheachair  mar  mhaighdein  ; 

Dana,  smachdail  mar  shaighdear, 

Cridhe  soilleir  gun  fhoill 

Anns  a'  chom  as  glaine  na  'n  daoimein, 

T'  aigneadh  uile  le  soisle,  70 

Mar  ghrian  choimhneil  a'  boisgcadh  air  fairs. 

Suairce,  siobhalta,  fearail, 

Suil  liontach,  ghorm,  mheallach, 

Bu  chaol,  finealta  mala, 

Gruaidh  ghris-dhearg,  channach,  75 

Beul  bith  a  bu  taine, 

Cneas  min-gheal  mar  chanach, 

Cha  n'eil  ti  a  thug  barrachd  air  t'  ailleachd. 

Fhuair  thu  urram  gach  cuise 

O'n  a  V  urrainn  thu  ghiulan  ;  80 

'N  am  suidhe  na  cuirte 
Far  'm  bu  lionmhora  diucan, 
34 


SONG  TO  LORD  GLENORCHY 

With  the  jolliest  din  ; 

The  chiefs,  the  brave  kin, 

With  a  rush  would  the  stricken  field  win. 

Robust,  lofty,  goodly. 

Manly,  imperious  shrewdly. 

Rider  of  the  steeds  proud. 

Well  broke,  snorting  loud ; 

You've  enough  Lowland  style. 

Gold-rimmed  hat  suits  you  well 

On  the  fairest  curled  locks  'mong  the  Gael. 

Face  gentle  and  kind 

As  a  maid's,  mild,  refined ; 

Bold  soldierly  mien. 

Heart  flawless  and  clean 

In  a  frame  diamond-bright. 

All  thy  nature  in  light 

As  the  kind  sun  on  horizon  height. 

Courteous,  polished,  manly, 

A  full  blue  winning  eye. 

Eyebrow  slender  and  sleek, 

Red  and  white  pretty  cheek. 

Very  small  quiet  mouth. 

Fine  skin,  mossdown-like,  smooth, 

None  has  bettered  thy  beauty  in  sooth. 

You  got  fame  in  each  thing 
Whence  fame  you  could  bring ; 
When  at  sitting  of  Court 
Many  dukes  did  resort, 
35 


MOKAIR  GHLEANN  URCHAIDH 

Bu  riomhach  do  dhiilti 

Bhi  caradh  a'  chruin 

Air  an  righ  'gam  bheil  duthchas  an  aite.  85 

Sar  chuirtear  na  maise 

'Gan  robh  cliu  air  gach  fasan, 

Fhuair  iul  ann  an  Sasunn 

Air  na  cuiseanaibh  tagraidh, 

'S  e  do  thur  a  bha  beachdail,  90 

Tha  'n  duthaich  Ian  aitis 

O'n  a  thai  nig  thu  dhathaigh  le  failte. 

Sar  phoitear  an  fhion'  thu, 

'S  tu  dh'  oladh  's  a  dhioladh 

Fhuair  thu  foghlum  gach  rioghachd,  95 

Meoir  as  grinne  ni  sgriobhadh ; 

Bu  tu  sealgair  na  slthne 

Le  d'  chuilbheir  caol,  direach, 

'N  uair  a  tharladh  tu  'm  frith  nam  beann  arda. 

An  am  dhuit  a  bhi  tadhal  100 

Anns  a'  bheinn  am  bi  'n  fhaoghailt, 

Leat  bu  mhiannach  a**  ghreadhan, 

Fuaim  mhiosar  ri  h-adhairc, 

Gunna  glaice  do  roghainn, 

Gairm  ghallanaich  gadhair,  105 

'N  uair  a  rachadh  e  'n  deidh  fir  craice. 

'S  ""n  uair  a  loisgeadh  tu  'm  fudar 

Leis  a'  ghunna  nach  diultadh, 

Bhiodh  na  peileirean  dubh-ghorm, 

Le  teine  'gan  stiuradh  110 

36 


SONG  TO  LORD  GLENORCHY 

'Twas  your  post  of  renown 

To  set  the  king's  crown 

On  whoe'er  had  the  place  handed  down. 

You,  arch  courtier  dashing, 

Had  fame  in  each  fashion, 

England  gave  education 

On  law  disputation. 

Keen  your  wits'  penetration  ; 

The  land's  in  elation 

Since  home  you  have  come  with  ovation. 

Of  wine  the  arch  quaffer. 

Which,  drinking,  you'd  pay  for. 

You  have  every  realm's  lear. 

Fingers  writing  neat,  clear. 

Hunter  of  venison 

With  your  slender  straight  gun. 

When  you  chanced  forest  peaks  to  be  on. 

At  the  time  of  your  foray 

On  the  peak  where's  the  quarry. 

You  loved  the  herd  furry. 

Click  on  horn  measures  hurry. 

Gun  in  grasp,  your  choice  glory, 

Deerhounds'  loud  bay  of  fury. 

When  behind  the  horned  stag  he  would  scurry. 

When  you  powder  ignited. 
With  the  gun  that  aye  lighted. 
Were  the  dark  blue  balls  flighted, 
By  fire  that  them  righted 
37 


MORAIR  GHLEANN  URCHAIDH 

Ri  h-eilid  na  stuice, 

'S  bhiodh  a  ceithreannan  bruite, 

Is  do  ghillean  'ga  giulan  a  fasach. 

'S  'n  uair  a  thearnta  gu  d'  bhaile 

Mu  oidhche  le  farum,  115 

Bu  ghleadhrach  an  talla, 

Tur  greadhnach  sin  Bhealaich  ; 

Mdr  chaoimhneas  air  t'aire, 

Bhiodh  loinn  air  luchd-ealaidh 

Leis  an  seinnte  gach  caithream  a  b"*  aill  leat.       120 

Mu  chromadh  na  greine 

'N  uair  a  dhonnadh  na  speuran, 

Gheibhte  sollain  is  eibhneas 

An  tigh  soilleir  na  feile, 

Gach  ceol  bu  bhinne  r'an  eisdeachd,  125 

Co-fhreagairt  a  cheile, 

An  fhiodhuU,  ""s  na  teudan,  ""s  a"*  chlarsach. 

Maduinn  shoilleir  ag  eirigh, 

Gheibhte  chomaine  cheudna, 

Piob  am  follais  'ga  speiceadh,  130 

Feadain  loma  ""gan  gleusadh, 

Dosa  donna  ri  beus  daibh, 

Ceol  loinneil  bu  reidhe, 

Sior-chaitheamh  na  feisd'  ann  at  aros. 

'S  i  an  trompaid  "'s  na  h-orgain,  135 

Bu  ghlan  pronndol  is  monmhor, 
"■N  uair  a  lomta  gach  corra-mheur 
Nach  bu  trom  air  an  t-sorchan, 

38 


SONG  TO  LORD  GLENORCHY 

At  the  hind  on  crag  sighted, 

Whose  quarters  were  blighted, 

And  your  lads  from  the  wilds  bore  delighted. 

When  at  night  to  your  home 

Down  with  noise  you  would  come, 

Stirring  hall  was  and  bower, 

Taymouth,  that  festal  tower, 

Great  joy  at  your  sight, 

'Mong  musicians  delight — 

Every  measure  was  played  you  thought  right. 

At  the  sun's  going  down 

When  the  heavens  turned  brown, 

Joy  and  gladness  conjoining 

In  the  festive  house  shining. 

To  list  all  strains  most  sweet. 

Harmonising  complete — 

The  viol,  the  strings,  the  harp  meet. 

Bright  morn  breaking  round. 

The  same  welcome  was  found, 

Pipe  i'  the  open  o'er  arm. 

Chanters  bare  tuned  to  charm, 

Brown  drones  to  them  belling. 

Smoothest  strains  all-excelling 

Aye  the  feast  celebrate  in  your  dwelling. 

The  trumpet,  the  organs. 
Drone  murmuring  pure  tones. 
When  was  stop  by  stop  lowered 
That  lay  light  on  key-board, 
39 


MORAIR  GHLEANN  URCHAIDH 

Bu  phuncail  an  torman, 

Gu  fonnmhorach,  foirmeil,  140 

Ann  an  teaghlach  aC  Mhorair  ri  abhachd. 

Talla  flathasach,  rioghail, 

An  robh  maitheas,  gun  mhi-run, 

Gheibht"*  ann  tathaich  gu  lionmhor 

De  mhaithibh  na  rioghachd,  145 

Seol  air  caitheamh  an  fhlona, 

Uisge-beatha  ann  am  piosan, 

A"*  sior-ghabhail  sios  nan  deoch-slainte. 

Mar  bu  mhiannach  leat  fhaicinn 

Bhi  gu  fialaidh  mar  chleachd  thu,  150 

Miosail,  miadhail,  gun  airceas, 

Uaisr  is  riomhadh  is  fasan  ; 

Or  lionmhor  g'a  sgapadh, 

Cluiche  dian  g'a  chur  seachad, 

Air  dhisnean,  air  chairtibh,  "s  air  thaileasg.         155 

Beus  nach  h'  ainneamh  le  d'  theaghlach, 

Bhi  gu  farumach,  greadhiiach, 

Ceol  is  aiteas  gach  oidhche, 

Seomar  laiste  le  coinnlibh ; 

'S  e  Gleann  Urchaidh  do  staoile,  160 

'S  thu  air  Bealach  at  oighre, 

Gu  meal  thu  do  ghreim  air  an  aite. 


40 


SONG  TO  LORD  GLENORCHY 

Distinct  the  notes  rolled, 
Tuneful,  lively,  and  bold. 
All  to  please  in  your  Lordship's  household. 

Princely  royal  palace. 

Goodness  there  with  no  malice. 

Numbers  found  to  o''erwhelm 

Of  the  peers  of  the  realm. 

Means  for  quaffing  the  wine. 

Drams  in  silver  cups  fine. 

Ever  washing  down  healths  all  combine. 

As  you  loved  to  appear 

Free  with  wonted  good  cheer. 

Praised,  esteemed,  with  profusion, 

Rank,  elegance,  fashion ; 

Gold  scattered  in  mass. 

High  play  made  it  pass. 

On  dominoes,  cards,  and  on  draughts. 

A  custom  goes  with  your  race 

To  be  genial  with  noise, 

Joy  and  music  each  night. 

Room  with  candles  alight ; 

Glenorchy's  your  style, 

Heir  of  Taymouth  the  while. 

May  you  come  to  your  claim  on  the  soil. 


41 


COIRE  A'  CHEATHAICH 


COIRE  A^  CHEATHAICH. 

'S  E  Coir'  a'  Cheathaich  nan  aighean  siubhlach, 

An  coire  runach  as  urar  fonn, 

Gu  lurach,  miad-fheurach,  min-gheal,  sughar, 

Gach  lusan  fluar  bu  chubhraidh  leam  ; 

Gu  molach,  dubh-ghorm,  torrach,  luisreagach,  5 

Con'ach,  pluranach,  dluth-ghlan  grjnn, 

Caoin,  ballach,  ditheanach,  cannach,  misleanach, 

Gleann  a'  mhilltich,  ""s  an  lionmhor  mang. 

Tha  falluing  dhuinte,  gii  daingean,  dubailf, 

A  mhaireas  uine,  mu^n  ruisg  i  lom,  10 

De'n  fheur  as  cul-fhinne  dh"*  fhas  na  h-urach, 

'S  a  bharr  air  lubadh  le  druchda  trom, 

Mu  choire  guanach  nan  torran  uaine, 

A"*  bheil  luibh  is  luachair  a  suas  g'a  cheann ; 

'S  am  fasach  guamach  an  cas  a  bhuana,  15 

Na'm  b'  aite  cruaidh  e,  'm  biodh  tuath  le'n  suim. 

Tha  trusgan  faoilidh  air  cruit  an  aonaich 

Chuir  suit  is  aoibh  air  gach  taobh  ad  chom, 

Min-fheur  chaorach  is  barra  bhraonan, 

'S  gach  lus  a  dh'  fhaodadh  bhi  'n  aodann  thorn  20 

M'an  choir'  as  aoigheala  tha  r'a  fhaotainn, 

A  chunna"*  daoine  an  taobh  so  'n  Fhraing ; 

Mur  dean  e  caochladh,  b'  e  'n  t-aighear  saoghalf 

Do  ghillean  aotrom  bhi  daonnan  ann. 

42 


THE  CORRIE  OF  THE  MIST 


THE   CORRIE   OF  THE   MIST. 

The  Misty  Corrie  of  the  hinds  vagrant, 
The  darling  corrie  of  the  freshest  land, 
(Each  flowering  herblet  to  me  most  fragrant) 
Full  grassy,  smooth-white,  sappy,  bland ; 
Shaggy,  dark  green,  and  fruitful,  herbous. 
Steep,  with  flowers  thick  and  pure  like  lawns. 
Mild,  spotted,  and  flowery,  pretty,  with  sweetgrass. 
Glen  of  the  arrow  grass,  the  numerous  fawns. 

A  fastened  mantle,  secure  and  doubled. 
Which  lasts  a  season,  till  it  strip  bare. 
Of  grass  the  loveliest  of  the  soiFs  increase. 
The  top  of  it  bending  with  dews  not  spare, 
Girds  the  glad  corrie  of  the  green  hillocks. 
Up  to  its  head  herb  and  rush  are  there ; 
And  the  smiling  pasture  in  trim  for  reaping. 
Were  it  a  hard  place  for  farmers'  care. 

The  raiment  blithe  on  the  back  o'  the  moorland 
Put  routh  and  joy  on  each  side  o'  thy  breast. 
Tender  sheepgrass,  the  flower  o"*  the  earth-nut — 
All  herbs  a  hill-face  that  might  have  graced 
Are  round  the  kindliest  found  of  corries. 
Which  men  can,  this  side  of  France,  compare ; 
Unless  it  change,  it  were  long-lived  gladness 
For  merry  lads  to  be  always  there. 
43 


COIRE  A'  CHEATHAICH 

'S  ann  mu^n  Ruadh  Aisridh  dh'fhas  na  cuairteagan,      25 

Clumhor,  cuachanach,  cuannar,  ard, 

A  h-uile  cluaineag  ""s  am  barr  air  luasgadh, 

'S  a'  ghaoth  ^gan  sguabadh  a  null  's  a  nail : 

Bun  na  cioba  is  barr  sl  mhilltich, 

A'  chuiseag  dhireach,  's  an  fhiteag  cham  ;  30 

Muran  brloghor,  's  an  grunnasg  llonmhor, 

Mu''n  chuile  dhiomhair,  am  bi  na  suinn. 

Tha  sliabh  na  Lairig  an  robh  MacBhaididh, 

'Na  mhothar  fasaich,  's  'na  straca  trom ; 

Slios  na  Ban-leacainn,  cha  n-i  as  taire,  35 

'S  gur  trie  a  dh'  araich  i  'n  lan-damh  donn : 

'S  na  h-aighean  dara  nach  teid  do^n  bha-thaigh, 

A  bhios  le  'n  alach  gu  h-ard  'nan  grunn, 

'S  na  laoigh  gu  h-uiseil  a  la  's  a  dh'oidhche, 

'S  na  h-uiread  cruinn  diubh  air  Druim-clach-fionn.       40 

Do  leacan  caoimhneil,  gu  dearcach,  braoileagach, 

Breac  le  feireagan  as  cruinn  dearg  ceann ; 

An  creamh  'na  chathraichibh,  am  bac  nan  staidhrichean, 

Stacan  fraoidhneasach  nach  bu  ghann  : 

Am  bearnan -bride,  's  a'  pheighinn  rioghail,  45 

'S  an  canach  min-gheal,  's  am  mislean  ann ; 

'S  a  h-uile  mlr  dheth,  o'n  bhun  as  isle 

Gu  h-ionad  cirean  na  crich'  as  aird'. 


'S  riomhach  cota  na  Creige  Moire, 

'S  cha  n'eil  am  folach  ad  choir  'san  am,  50 

Ach  meanan-coinnich,  o  's  e  bu  nosaire, 

Air  a  chomhdachadh  bhos  is  thall : 

44 


THE  CORRIE  OF  THE  MIST 

Round  Ruadh  Aisridh  have  grown  the  grass  tufts, 

Cosy  and  cup-shaped,  neat,  and  high, 

Each  small  green  pasture,  its  surface  waving. 

And  the  wind  sweeping  it  far  and  nigh  : 

The  root  o'  the  moor-grass,  the  top  o"  the  arrow-grass, 

The  straight  stem,  the  stalk  bent  crookedly ; 

The  strengthening  bent  and  the  plenteous  groundsel. 

Round  the  hid  nook  where  the  heroes  be. 

The  slope  of  the  pass,  where  dwelt  Mac  Baady, 
Is  a  ruin  run  wild,  rank  swathes  bent  down ; 
Ban-leacainn's  flank,  it  is  not  the  meanest, 
And  oft  has  it  reared  the  prime  hart  brown : 
The  pairing  hinds  that  no  fold  will  enter. 
They  dwell  high  up  in  groups  with  their  young. 
And  snug  are  the  calves  by  day  and  by  night  there. 
And  as  many  gathered  on  Drum-clach-fionn. 

Thy  kindly  hill-side  with  whortle  and  cow  berries. 

With  cloudberries  chequered,  their  red  heads  round ; 

The  garlic  in  tufts  at  the  top  of  the  stairs. 

Fringing  precipices  which  abound : 

The  dandelion  and  the  penny-royal. 

The  soft  white  moss-down,  the  sweet  grass  round  ; 

In  every  bit  from  its  base  profoundest 

To  the  site  of  the  crests  of  its  highest  bound. 

Oh  !  lovely  is  the  Great  Crag's  vesture, 
'Tis  now  no  rank  grass  is  thee  before. 
But  delicate  mosses — and  they  of  the  sappiest — 
On  this  side,  that  side,  coating  it  o'er : 
45 


COIRE  A'  CHEATHAICH 

Na  lagain  chomhnard  am  bun  nan  sroineag, 

Am  bi  na  sobhraichean,  's  neonain  fann, 

Gu  bileach,  feoirneanach,  mills,  roineagach,  55 

Molach,  romach,  gach  seors'  a  th'  ann. 

Tha  mala  ghruamach  de'n  bhiolair  uaine 

Mu''n  h-uile  fuaran  a  th''  anns  an  fhonn ; 

Is  doire  shealbhag  aig  bun  nan  garbh-chlach, 

'S  an  grinneal  gainmhich'^  gu  meanbh-gheal  pronn  ;      60 

'Na  ghlugan-plumbach  air  ghoil  gun  ain-teas, 

Ach  coilich  buirn  tighinn  a  grunnd  eas  lorn, 

Gach  sruthan  uasal  'na  chuailean  cul-ghorm, 

A'  ruith  'na  sputa,  's  'na  luba  steoU. 

Tha  bradan  tarr-gheal  's  a'  choire  gharbhlaich,  65 

Tha  tighinn  o'n  fhairge  bu  ghailbheach  tonn, 

Le  luinneis  mheanmnach  ag  ceapadh  mheanbh-chuileag 

Gu  neo-chearbach  le  cham-ghob  crom : 

Air  bhuinne  borb,  is  e  leum  gu  foirmeil, 

'Na  eideadh  colgail  bu  ghorm-glas  druim,  70 

Le  shoislean  airgid,  gu  h-iteach,  meanbh-bhreac, 

Gu  lannach,  dearg-bhallach,  earr-gheal  sliom. 

'S  e  Coir"*  a'  Cheathaich  an  t-aithir  priseil, 

'S  an  t-aite  rioghail  mu'm  bidht'  a**  sealg, 

Is  bidh  feidh  air  ghiulan  le  lamhach  fudair  75 

Ag  cur  luaidhe  dhubh-ghorm  gu  dluth  'nan  calg : 

An  gunna  gleusda,  's  an  cuilean  eutrom, 

Gu  fuileach,  feumanach,  treubhach,  garg, 

A'  ruith  gu  siubhlach,  ag  gearradh  shurdag, 

'S  a"  dol  g'a  dhubhlan  ri  cursan  dearg.  80 

46 


THE  CORRIE  OF  THE  MIST 

And  the  smooth  dells  at  the  base  of  the  cliffs, 
Where  the  primroses  are,  and  weak  daisies, 
They  are  leafy,  rushy,  and  sweet,  and  bushy. 
Shaggy,  and  tressy — each  sort  there  lies. 

A  gloomy  eyebrow  of  the  green  cresses 

Is  round  each  spring-well  that's  in  the  land ; 

A  sorrel  grove  at  the  foot  of  the  rough  stones, 

The  gravel  pounded  to  fine  white  sand ; 

In  plunge  and  gurgle  without  heat  boiling. 

But  jets  a-toiling  from  bare  falls'  end. 

Each  noble  streamlet  in  blue-backed  swirling 

In  rapids  curling  and  cataracts'  bend. 

White-bellied  salmon  is  in  the  rough  corrie, 
Which  comes  from  the  stormy  billowy  sea. 
With  mettlesome  playfulness  capturing  small  flies 
In  his  bent  hooked  beak,  not  awkwardly : 
On  the  fierce  current  'tis  he  leaps  briskly. 
In  his  sword-like  mail,  with  back  blue-grey. 
With  gleams  of  silver,  finny,  fine-speckled. 
Scaly,  red-spotted,  white-tailed,  slippery. 

The  Misty  Corrie,  retreat  beloved, 
The  royal  spot  where  they'd  hunting  be. 
And  deer  are  whelmed  with  a  shot  of  powder 
Sowing  dark  lead  in  their  fur  thickly : 
The  well-trimmed  gun,  and  the  dog  light-footed. 
Bloody,  keen-scented,  strong,  and  dread. 
Running  swiftly  and  cutting  gambols 
In  challenge  going  against  courser  red. 
47 


COIRE  A'  CHEATHAICH 

Gheibhte  daonnan  mu  d"*  ghlacaibh  faoine 

Na  h-aighean  maola,  na  laoigh,  's  na  maing ; 

Sud  bu  mhiann  leinn  am  maduinn  ghrianaich, 

Bhi  dol  g'  an  iarraidh,  's  a'  fiadhach  bheann : 

Ged  thigeadh  siantan  oirnn,  uisg  is  dile,  85 

Bha  se6l  g'ar  dldean  mu'n  chrich  'san  am, 

An  creagan  losal  am  bun  na  frithe, 

'S  an  leaba-dhiona,  's  mi  'm  shineadh  ann. 

'S  a'  mhaduinn  chiuin-ghil,  an  am  dhomh  dusgadh 

Aig  bun  na  stuice  b'  e  'n  sugradh  learn  ;  90 

A'  chearc  le  sgiucan  ag  gabhail  tuchain, 

'S  an  coileach  cuirteil  a'  durdail  crom ; 

An  dreathan  surdail,  's  a  ribheid  chiuil  aige, 

Ag  cur  nan  smuid  deth  gu  luthor  binn ; 

An  druid  's  am  bru-dhearg,  le  mdran  uinich,  95 

Ri  ceileir  sunntach  bu  shiubhlach  rann. 

Bha  e6in  an  t-sleibhe  'nan  ealtainn  gle  ghlan 

Ag  gabhail  bheusan  air  gheig  's  a**  choill ; 

An  uiseag  cheutach,  's  a  luinneag  fein  aice, 

Feadan  speiseil  gu  reidh  a'  seinn  :  100 

A'  chubhag,  's  an  sme6rach,  am  barr  an  6gain, 

Ag  gabhail  orain  gu  ceolmhor  binn : 

'N  uair  ghoir  an  cuanal  gu  loinneil  guanach, 

'S  e  's  glain*  a  chualas  am  fuaim  's  a'  ghleann. 

'N  uair  thig  iad  c6mhla  na  bheil  ad  ch6ir-sa  105 

De  a  h-uile  se6rsa  bu  choir  bhi  ann, 
Damh  na  croice  air  srath  na  m6intich, 

'S  e  gabhail  cronain  le  dreocam  ard ; 

48 


THE  CORRIE  OF  THE  MIST 

Ever  were  found  round  thy  hollows  lonely 
The  calves,  the  fawns,  and  the  hornless  hind ; 
There  fain  would  we  be  on  sunny  morning 
The  peaks  to  stalk  going  them  to  find  : 
Though  blasts  and  rain  and  flood  assailed  us, 
On  the  bounds  meantime  was  means  for  our  lair, 
'Neath  the  low  rock  at  the  base  of  the  forest 
In  the  Bed  of  Shelter — I  stretch  me  there. 

In  the  calm  bright  morn  when  I  awakened, 

At  the  base  of  the  crag,  it  was  joy  for  me ; 

The  grouse  with  her  cackle,  a  hoarse  song  singing. 

The  courtly  cock  crooning  brokenly ; 

The  sprightly  wren,  and  the  musical  pipe  of  him. 

Sending  the  notes  from  him  vigorous,  sweet ; 

The  starling  and  red-breast,  with  much  bustle, 

And  cheery  warble  of  verse  most  fleet. 

The  mountain  birds  were  in  flocks  so  pretty, 

Melodies  singing  on  sprays  in  the  wood ; 

The  peerless  skylark  with  her  own  ditty 

Smoothly  sings  a  love  interlude : 

The  cuckoo,  the  blackbird,  on  top  of  the  branches. 

Pipe  a  melodious  musical  strain  : 

When  the  songsters  are  calling  joyously,  lightly. 

Their  song  was  the  purest  heard  in  the  glen. 

When  all  that  are  near  thee  come  together 
Of  every  sort  that  ought  to  be  nigh. 
The  antlered  stag  in  the  strath  of  the  moorland, 
Giving  a  croon  with  a  loud  deer-cry ; 

49  i> 


COIRE  A'  CHEATHAICH 

A*'  dol  'san  fheithe  gu  bras  le  h-eibhneas, 
A**  mire-leumnaich  ri  eildeig  dhuinn  ;  110 

B'  i  sin  an  ribhinn  a  dh'fhas  gu  mileanta, 
Foinneamh,  finealta,  direach,  seang. 

Tha  mhaoisleach  chul-bhuidh'  air  feadh  na  duslainn 

Aig  bun  nam  fiuran  'gan  rusgadh  lorn, 

'S  am  boc  gu  h-udlaidh  ri  leaba  chuirteil,  115 

'S  e  'ga  burach  le  rutan  crom ; 

'S  am  minneain  riabhach  bu  luime  cliathaich, 

Le  chuinnean  fiata,  is  fiadhaich"*  ceann, 

■•Na  chadal  guamach  an  lagan  uaigneach 

Fo  bharr  na  luachrach  'na  chuairteig  chruinn.  120 

Is  lionmhor  cnuasach  a  bha  mu'n  cuairt  duit, 

Ri  am  am  buana,  bu  luaineach  clann, 

Ri  tionnal  guamach,  gu  fearail,  suairce, 

'S  a'  roinn  gu  h-uasal  na  fhuair  iad  ann ; 

Ceir-bheach  'na  cnuacaibh,  's  an  nead  'na  chuairteig,    125 

'S  a'  mhil  'ga  buanachd  air  cruaidh  an  tuim, 

Aig  seillein  riabhacha,  breaca,  srianach, 

Le'n  cronan  cianail  as  fiata  srann. 

Bha  cus  r'a  fhaotainn  de  chnothan  caoine, 
'S  cha  b'  iad  na  caochagan  aotrom  gann,  130 

Ach  bagailt  mhaola,  bu  taine  plaoisg, 
A'  toirt  brigh  a  laodhan  nam  maoth-shlat  fann : 
Srath  nan  caochan  'na  dhosaibh  caorainn, 
'S  'na  phreasaibh  caola,  Ian  chraobh  is  mheang ; 
Na  gallain  ura,  's  na  faillein  dlutha,  135 

'S  am  barrach  duinte  mu  chul  nan  crann. 

50 


THE  CORRTE  OF  THE  MIST 

Into  the  mire  with  joy  going  rashly, 
Merry  he  skips  to  a  brown  young  hind ; 
That  was  the  queen  that  has  grown  up  stately. 
Handsome,  and  clean-flanked,  straight,  refined. 

The  yellow-backed  doe  is  amid  the  thicket 

At  the  foot  o**  the  saphngs  stripping  them  bare, 

The  buck  at  a  courtly  bed  works  darkly. 

As  he  digs  up  the  earth  with  bent  hoof  there ; 

The  brindled  kidling  of  barest  ribsides, 

With  timidest  nostrils,  and  wildest  head. 

Snugly  it  sleeps  in  a  secret  hollow 

""Neath  the  crop  o'  the  rush  in  a  small  round  bed. 

Many's  the  hoarding  that  grew  around  thee, 
At  harvest  time  would  the  children  bound 
To  a  snug  gathering,  pleasantly,  manly, 
And  sharing  nobly  what  there  they  found ; 
In  lumps  bees'  wax,  and  their  nest  a  wee  ball. 
From  hard  knoll-side  is  the  honey  laid  by 
From  the  bees  streaked,  and  spotted,  and  brindled, 
With  their  mournful  buzzing  and  humming  high. 

There  to  gather  was  plenty  of  ripe  nuts, 
And  no  light  scanty  shells  were  they. 
But  clusters  bare  with  husk  o'  the  thinnest 
Take  pith  from  the  sap  o'  the  tender  spray : 
Strath  of  the  rills,  with  clumps  o'  the  rowan. 
With  bushes  slim,  full  of  boughs,  twigs  these ; 
The  saplings  fresh,  and  the  shoots  thick  growing. 
And  the  foliage  closed  round  the  top  o'  the  trees 
51 


CUMHA  CHOIEE  A'  CHEATHAICH 

Gach  aite  timchioll  ""nam  fasach  iomlan, 

Mam  is  Fionn-ghleann  's  an  Tuilm  'ga  ch6ir 

Meall-tionail  laimh  ris,  gu  molach,  tlathail, 

B'e  chulaidh  dh'arach  an  alaich  oig ;  140 

Na  daimh  's  na  h-cildean  am  maduinn  Cheitein 

Gu  moch  ag  eirigh  air  reidhlean  fe6ir, 

Greighean  dhearg  dhiubh  air  taobh  gach  leargain 

Mu  'n  choire  gharbhlaich,  d'an  ainm  an  Ce6. 


CUMHA   CHOIRE   A'  CHEATHAICH. 

Air  Fonn,  "  The  Flowers  of  Edinburgh.'''' 

^S  DuiLiCH  leam  an  caradh 
Th*"  air  coire  gorm  an  fhasaich, 
An  robh  mi  greis  am  aiach 

'S  a'  Bhraighe  so  thall ; 
'S  iomadh  fear  a  bharr  orm,  5 

A  thaitneadh  e  r'a  nadur, 
Na'm  biodh  e  mar  a  bha  e, 

'N  uair  dh'  fhag  mi  e  nail ; 
Gimnaireachd  is  lamhach 

Spurt  is  aobhar  gaire,  10 

Chleachd  bhi  aig  na  h-armuinn 

A  Vabhaist  bhi  ""s  a'  ghleann ; 
Rinn  na  fir  ud  f  hagail — 
'S  Mac  Eoghainn  t'ann  an  drasda, 
Mar  chlach  an  ionad  cabaig  15 

An  aite  na  bh'  ann. 
52 


DIRGE  FOR  THE  MISTY  CORRIE 

Each  place  around  is  a  teeming  wasteland, 
Mam,  and  the  Tuilm,  and  Fionn-gleann  near, 
Meall-tionail  at  hand,  both  tufty  and  sheltered, 
'Twas  the  means  the  offspring  young  to  rear ; 
The  stags  and  the  hinds  at  morn  in  Maytide 
Are  early  on  grassy  plains  uprist, 
Red  herds  of  them  on  every  brae-side, 
Round  the  rough  Corrie  named  of  the  Mist. 


DIRGE   FOR   THE   MISTY   CORRIE. 

AiE,  "  The  Flowers  of  Edinburgh,'''' 

At  the  usage  I  am  sorry 

Of  the  wilderness'  green  corrie, 

A  while  of  my  rearing  where  I 

In  the  Brae  lived  o'er  there ; 
There's  many  a  man  forbye 
Whose  soul  't  would  gratify 
Were  it  as  in  days  gone  by. 

When  I  left  it  for  here ; 
Musketry  and  shooting  craft  were. 
With  sport  and  food  for  laughter. 
By  heroes  practised  oft  there 

Who  woned  in  the  glen ; 
Yon  men  have  from  it  gone — 
Now  MacEwen's  there  alone. 
As,  instead  of  cheese,  a  stone. 

In  place  of  what  was  then. 


CUMHA  CHOIRE  A'  CHEATHAICH 

Tha  'n  coir"*  air  dol  am  faillinn, 
Ged  ithear  thun  a'  bhlair  e, 
Gun  duin*  aig  am  bheil  cas  deth 

Mu'n  ait  amis  an  am  ;  20 

Na  feidh  a  bh'  ann  air  fhagail, 
Cha  d'  f  huirich  gin  air  aruinn, 
""S  cha  n'eil  an  aite-tamha 

Mar  bha  e  's  a'  ghleann. 
Tha  'm  baran  air  a  sharach"*,  25 

Is  dh'*f  hartlaich  air  an  taladh, 
Gun  sgil  aig**  air  an  nadur 

Ged  thainig  e  ann : 
B'fhearr  dha  bhi  mar  b'  abhaist, 
Os  cionn  an  t-soithich  chatha,  30 

'S  a  lamhan  a  bhi  Ian  di, 
'Ga  fasgadh  gu  teann. 

'S  e  mughadh  air  an  t-saoghal, 

An  coire  laghach,  gaolach, 

A  dhol  a  nis  air  faondradh,  35 

'S  am  maor  a  theachd  ann  : 
'S  gur  h-e  bu  chleachdainn  riamh  dha 
Bhi  trusadh  nan  cearc  biata, 
Gur  trie  a  rinn  iad  sianail, 

Le  pianadh  do  lamh ;  40 

Is  iad  'nam  baidnibh  riabhach, 
Mu  V  amhaich  's  ann  ad  sgiathan, 
Bhiodh  itealaich  is  sgiabail 

Mu  t'  fhiaclan  'san  am  : 
Bu  ghiobach  thu  ri  riaghailt  45 

Mu  chidsin  tigh  an  larla, 
Gar  nach  b'e  do  mhiann 

Bhi  cur  bhian  air  an  staing. 
54 


DIRGE  FOR  THE  MISTY  CORRIE 

The  corrie's  failing,  wearing, 
Though  cropt  to  ground  unsparing. 
And  no  man  is  for  it  caring 

In  the  place  as  it  was  then  ; 
The  deer  that  browsed  it  fled, 
In  the  forest  none  have  staid. 
Nor  their  resting-place  have  made 

As  they  used  in  the  glen. 
Great's  the  bailiffs  discomfiture. 
Bafiled  to  entice  a  creature, 
With  no  skill  as  to  their  nature 

Hither  though  he  came : 
Better  he,  as  usual,  standing 
O'er  the  sowan-vat  superintending. 
Full  his  hands  of  streams  unending. 

As  tight  he  squeezed  them. 

There's  a  change  upon  creation. 
The  corrie,  dear  sweet  station. 
Is  gone  now  to  ruination. 

The  steward  there  commands : 
And  it  was  his  practice  ever 
The  fat  hens  to  deliver. 
Often  did  they  screeching  quiver 

With  pain  at  your  hands ; 
In  brindled  flocks,  poor  things. 
They  are  round  your  neck  in  rings, 
Feathers  shed  and  fluttering  wings — 

Now  among  your  teeth  they  are : 
Surveillance  you  were  rich  in 
About  the  Earl's  kitchen. 
Though  never  were  you  itching 

To  put  skins  upon  the  spar. 
55 


CUMHA  CHOIRE  A'  CHEATHAICH 

Ged  tha  thu  nis  's  a"*  Bhraighe, 

Cha  chompanach  le  each  thu,  50 

'S  tha  h-uile  duine  tair  ort 

O'n  thainig  thu  aim  ; 
'S  eiginii  duit  am  fagail 
Na  ""s  miosa  na  mar  thainig, 
Cha  taitinn  thu  ri  'n  nadur  55 

Le  cnamhan  's  le  cainnt : 
Ged  fhaiceadh  tu  ghreigh  uallach, 
'N  uair  rachadh  tu  mu'n  cuairt  daibh, 
Cha  dean  thu  ach  am  fuadachadh 

Suas  feadh  nam  beann  ;  60 

Leis  a^  ghunna  nach  robh  buadhor. 
'S  a""  mheirg  air  a  toU-cluaise, 
Cha  n-eirmis  i  na  cruachan. 

An  cuaille  dubh,  cam. 

'S  e  'n  coire  chaidh  an  deis-laimh,  65 

O'n  tha  e  nis  gun  f  heidh  ann, 
Gun  duin'  aig  am  bheil  speis  diubh, 

Ni  feum  air  an  cul ; 
O'n  tha  iad  gun  fhear-gleidhte, 
Cha  n-fhuirich  iad  r'a  cheile,  70 

'S  ann  a  ghabh  iad  an  ratreuta 

Seach  reidhlean  nan  lub. 
Cha  n''eil  pris  an  ruadh-bhuic, 
An  coille  no  air  fuaran, 
Nach  b'  eiginn  da  bhi  gluasad  75 

Le  ruaig  feadh  na  duthch' ; 
""S  cha  n'eil  a  nis  mu'n  cuairt  da 
Aon  spurt  a  dheanadh  suairceas, 
Na  thaitneadh  ri  duin''-uasal 

Ged  fhuasgladh  e  chu.  80 

56 


DIRGE  FOR  THE  MISTY  CORRIE 

In  the  Brae  though  now  they've  placed  you, 
No  companion  for  the  rest  you. 
Every  mortal  does  detest  you. 

Since  there  you  have  come  bragging ; 
And  worse  you  needs  must  leave  them 
Than  e'en  you  did  receive  them. 
Since  to  the  soul  you  grieve  them 

With  girning  and  with  nagging : 
The  proud  herd,  if  you  scout  them. 
When  you  would  come  about  them, 
You'U  nothing  do  but  rout  them 

The  tops  up  among ; 
With  a  gun  that  was  not  trusty, 
It's  touch-hole  being  rusty. 
The  big  stacks  it  missed  aye. 

The  black  crooked  rung. 

The  corrie's  fallen  behindhand, 
With  not  a  deer  or  hind,  and 
Not  a  man  for  them  inclined,  and 

Who  will  after  them  avail ; 
For  without  a  keeper,  they 
Together  will  not  stay. 
They  have  beat  retreat  away 

Past  the  windings  of  the  vale. 
Not  a  roebuck  e'en  is  spared. 
In  woodland,  or  weU  sward. 
But  must  move  with  driving  hard 

In  flight  through  the  country ; 
There  is  round  now  within  sight 
Not  one  sport  that  gives  delight, 
Or  would  gentleman  requite. 

Though  he  his  dog  should  free. 
57 


CUMHA  CHOIRE  A'  CHEATHAICH 

Tha  choille  bh'  anns  an  fhrith  ud, 
Na  cuislean  fada,  direach, 
Air  tuiteam  is  air  crionadh 

Sios  as  an  rusg ; 
Na  prisein  a  bha  brioghor  85 

'Nan  dosaibh  tiugha,  lionmhor, 
Air  seacadh  mar  gu'n  spiont'  iad 

A  nios  as  an  uir ; 
Na  failleanan  bu  bhoidhche, 
Na  slatan  is  na  h-6gain,  90 

'S  an  t-ait  am  biodh  an  smeorach 

Gu  mothar  a"*  seinn  ciuil, 
Tha  iad  uil'  air  caochladh, 
Cha  d'  fhuirich  fiodh  na  fraoch  ann ; 
Tha  'm  mullach  bharr  gach  craoibhe,  96 

'S  am  maor  'ga  thoirt  diubh. 

Tha  uisge  Srath  na  Dige, 

'Na  shruthladh  dubh  gun  sioladh 

Le  barraig  uaine  li-ghlais 

Gu  mi-bhlasda  grannd ;  100 

Feur-lochain  is  tachair 
An  cinn  an  duilleag-bhaite, 
Cha  n'eil  gne  tuille  fas 

Anns  an  ait  ud  'san  am ; 
Glumagan  a'  chathair,  105 

'Na  ghlugaibh  domhain,  samhach, 
Cho  tiugh  ri  sughan  catha, 

'Na  lathaich  's  'na  phlam  ; 
Sean  bhurn  salach  ruadhain 
Cha  ghlaine  ghrunnd  na  uachdar,  110 

Gur  coslach  ri  muir  ruaidh  e, 

'Na  ruaimle  feadh  stang. 

58 


DIRGE  FOR  THE  MISTY  CORRIE 

In  yon  forest  all  the  timber, 
The  lengthy  stems  and  limber, 
Are  fallen  down,  succumbed  there, 

Withered  from  their  rind ; 
The  shrubs  with  pith  that  sprouted, 
In  thickets  many-shooted. 
Are  dried  as  if  uprooted 

Out  of  the  ground ; 
The  bonniest  sapling  bush, 
The  bough  and  the  young  brush. 
And  the  place  where  was  the  thrush 

Softly  singing  melody, 
Changed  are  they  altogether. 
Bided  has  not  wood  or  heather ; 
The  top's  off  every  tree  there, 

The  steward  takes  it  away. 

The  Srath  na  Dige  water 
Is  a  black  unfiltered  gutter 
With  a  yellow-green  scum,  utter 

Ill-tasting  nasty  slime ; 
In  marsh  and  current  stiUy, 
Where  grows  the  water-lily. 
Grows  no  sort  more  gracefully 

In  yon  place  meantime ; 
The  pools  o'  the  mossy  hill 
Are  bog-holes  deep  and  still, 
And  thick  as  sowen-swill 

Roll  in  puddle  and  pitch ; 
Old  water,  foul  and  rusty. 
Depths  and  surface  alike  musty, 
Is  like  a  red  sea  fusty, 

AH  stirred  up  in  a  ditch. 
59 


CUMHA  CHOIRE  A'  CHEATHAICH 

Tha  'n  t-ait  an  robh  na  fuarain 

Air  fas  'na  chroitean  cruaidhe, 

Gun  sobhrach,  gun  dail-chuaich,  115 

Gun  lus  uasal  air  earn ; 
An  sliabh  an  robh  na  h-eildean, 
An  aite  laighe  's  eirigh 
Cho  lorn  ri  cabhsair  feille, 

'S  am  feur,  chinn  e  gann  :  120 

Chuir  Alasdair  le  gheisgeil 
A'  ghreigh  ud  as  a  cheile, 
'S  ar  learn  gur  mc5r  an  eucoir 

An  eudail  a  chall ; 
Cha  lugha  'n  t-aobhar  miothlachd,  125 

Am  fear  a  chleachd  bhi  tiorail, 
A'  tearnadh  is  a'  direadh 
Ri  frith  nan  damh  seang. 

Ach  ma's  duine  de  shliochd  Pharuig 

A  theid  a  nis  do'n  aite,  130 

'S  gu'n  cuir  e  as  a  laraich 

An  tacharan  a  th'  ann, 
Bidh  'n  coire  mar  a  bha  e, 
Bidh  laoigh  is  aighean  dar'  ann, 
Bidh  daimh  a'  dol  'san  damhair,  135 

Air  fasach  nam  beann  ; 
Bidh  buic  'sna  badan  blatha, 
Na  brie  'san  abhainn  laimh  riu, 
'S  na  feidh  an  Srath  na  Lairig' 

Ag  araeh  nam  mang  ;  140 

Thig  gaeh  uile  ni  g'  a  abhaist, 
Le  aighear  is  le  abhaehd, 
'N  uair  gheibh  am  baran  bkirlinn 

Sud  fhagail  gun  taing. 
6o 


DIRGE  FOR  THE  MISTY  CORRIE 

The  place  where  wells  to  brim  rose, 
To  hillocks  dry  and  grim  grows, 
With  not  a  violet,  primrose, 

Or  cairn-grown  noble  plant ; 
The  slope  where  hinds  were  saucy. 
There  they  lie  not,  rise  not,  gaucie, 
'Tis  as  bare  as  market  causeway, 

And  the  grass  grown  scant : 
Sandy,  with  his  bellowing  thunder. 
Has  put  yon  herd  asunder. 
And  great  methinks  the  blunder 

The  stock  should  depart ; 
And  a  cause  not  less  heart-rending. 
One  has,  wont  to  be  descending 
Cheerily,  or  ascending 

The  forest  of  the  hart. 

But  were  it  one  of  Patrick's  race 
That  now  came  to  the  place. 
And  did  from  its  ruins  chase 

The  changeling  there  that  keeks — 
As  it  was  will  be  the  corrie, 
There  will  calves  be,  hinds  that  marry, 
And  the  stags  to  peat-holes  hurry 

On  the  wilds  of  the  peaks ; 
Bucks  will  lie  in  thickets  warm, 
Burn-trout  nigh  without  alarm. 
Deer  in  Srath  na  Lairig  swarm, 

A-rearing  their  fawn ; 
To  its  usual  each  thing  brought  is 
With  joy  and  gaudetotes. 
When  the  bailiff'  will  get  notice 

WiUy  nilly  to  leave  yon. 
6i 


ORAN  SEACHARAN  SEILGE 


ORAN  SEACHARAN  SEILGE. 

LuiNNEAG. 

Chunna  mi  ^n  damh  donn  ''s  na  h-eildean. 

Direadh  d  hhealaich  le  chfile : 

Chunna*  mi  ''n  damh  donn  ''s  na  h-eildean. 

'S  mi  tearnadh  a  Coir*'  a'  Cheathaich, 

'S  mor  mo  mhighean  's  mi  gun  aighear,  5 

Siubhal  frithe  re  an  latha, 

Thilg  mi  'n  spraidh  nach  dVinn  feum  dhomh. 
Chunna""  mi  V  damh  donn^  etc. 

Ged  tha  bacadh  air  na  h-armaibh, 
Ghleidh  mi  ""n  Spainteach  tliun  na  sealga,  10 

Ged  a  rinn  i  orm  de  chearbaich, 
Nach  do  mharbh  i  mac  na  h-eilde. 

'N  uair  a  dh'eirich  mi  \s  a'  mhaduinn, 
Chuir  mi  innte  fudar  Ghlascho, 
Peileir  teann  is  tri  puist  Shas'nach,  15 

Cuifean  asgairt  air  a  dheidh  sin. 

Bha  'n  spor  ur  an  deis  a  breacadh, 
Chuir  mi  liille  ris  an  acfhuinn, 
Eagal  druchd  bha  mudan  craicinn 

Cumail  fasgaidh  air  mo  cheile.  20 

62 


ON  MISSING  AT  HUNTING 


SONG   ON  MISSING   AT   HUNTING. 

Lay. 

/  saw  the  dun  stag  and  the  hinds 
Ascending  the  pass  together: 
I  saw  the  dun  stag  and  the  hinds. 

I'm  down  from  Misty  Corrie  trailing, 
Great's  my  chagrin  and  joyless  me ; 

I  fired  the  shot  me  not  availing, 
Treading  all  day  the  forest  free. 

/  saw  the  dun  stag  and  the  hinds,  etc. 

Though  upon  arms  is  laid  a  veto, 
I  kept  the  Spaniard  for  the  hill, 

Despite  the  trick  she  treated  me  to, 
Tlie  son  o'  the  hind  she  failed  to  kill. 

Up  in  the  morning  I  at  once  got. 

In  her  I  put  Glasgow  powder, 
A  tight  ball,  three  English  swan-shot. 

Then  with  wad  of  tow  I  stowed  her. 

Fresh  the  flint  was  on  renewing, 

And  oil  I  put  into  the  spring, 
A  skin-case  was,  for  fear  of  dewing. 

On  my  companion  ward  keeping. 
63 


ORAN  SEACHRAN  SEILGE 

Laigh  an  eilid  air  an  fhuaran, 
Chaidh  mi  farasda  mu'n  cuairt  di, 
Leig  mi  'n  deannal  ud  m''a  tuairmse, 
Learn  as  cruaidh  gu'*n  dVinn  i  eirigh. 

Rainig  mise  taobh  na  bruaiche,  25 

'S  chosd  mi  rithe  mo  chuid  luaidhe ; 
""S  'n  uair  a  shaoil  mi  i  bhi  buailte, 
Sin  an  uair  a  V  aird'  a  leum  i. 

'S  muladach  bhi  siubhal  frithe 
Ri  la  gaoith',  is  msg\  is  dile,  30 

'S  ordugh  teann  ag  iarraidh  sithne. 
Cur  nan  giomanach  'nan  eiginn. 

'S  mithich  tearnadh  do  na  gleannaibh 
O'n  tha  gruamaich  air  na  beannaibh, 
'S  ceathach  duinte  mu  na  meallaibh,  35 

Ag  cur  dalladh  air  ar  leirsinn. 

Bidh  sinn  beo  an  dochas  ro  mhath, 
Gu''m  bi  chuis  ni''s  fhearr  an  t-ath  la ; 
Gu'm  bi  gaoth,  is  grian,  is  talamh, 

Mar  as  maith  leinn  air  na  sleibhtibh.  40 

Bidh  an  luaidh  ghlas  'na  deannaibh, 
Siubhal  reidh  aig  conaibh  seanga ; 
'S  an  damh  donn  a'  sileadh  fola, 

'S  abhachd  aig  na  fearaibh  gleusda ! 


64 


ON  MISSING  AT  HUNTING 

The  hind,  she  lay  down  by  the  well, 
And  I  went  round  about  her  easy, 

Let  off  at  her  yon  shot  so  fell — 

That  she  arose,  it  did  not  please  me. 

The  side  of  the  steep  bank  T  won. 
At  her  my  charge  of  lead  I  spent  it ; 

And  when  I  thought  she  was  undone. 
That  was  the  time  she  highest  sprinted. 

'Tis  sad  to  be  in  forest  gone 

In  day  of  wind  when  rain-floods  rattle — 
Strict  orders  to  seek  venison 

The  hunters  putting  on  their  mettle. 

To  the  glens  'tis  high  time  to  go  down, 
Since  on  the  peaks  there's  gloomy  plight. 

And  mists  closed  in  the  hills  around, 
A  blindness  causing  on  our  sight. 

That  next  day  better  will  befall  us 

We  shall  live  in  best  of  hopes. 
That  wind,  sun,  landscape  will  be  all  as 

We  desire  upon  the  slopes. 

Grey  lead  will  fly  in  lightning  flood. 

To  clean-flanked  dogs  a  smooth  course  clear ; 

And  the  dun  stag  is  dripping  blood. 
And  to  the  active  men  good  cheer. 


65 


DO  CHAIMBEUL  A'  BHANCA 


ORAN  DO  IAIN  CAIMBEUL  A'  BHANCA. 

Iain  Chaimbeul  a**  Bhanca, 

GvCm  faiceam  thu  slan, 

Fhir  a  chumail  na  daimh, 
'Gam  buineadh  bhi  mor : 
Le  d'  chridhe  fial,  fearail,  5 

A  thug  barrachd  air  each, 

An  iomadaidh  cas 

A  thuilleadh  nan  slogh. 
Fhuair  thu  meas,  nach  'eil  bitheant' 

Am  measg  Bhreatunnach,  10 

Banc  an  oir  bhi  fo  d'  sgoid 

Ann  an  coir  dhleasdanaich  ; 
Na  th'  ann,  cha  n-e  'm  beagan, 

Is  e  'm  freasdal  ri  d'  stait, 

Fo  leagadh  do  lamh  15 

'S  gu  freagradh  do  bheoil. 

■"S  tu  marcach  nan  srann-each 
Bu  stannardach  ceum, 
Le  'ni  falaireachd  fein 

Gu  farasda  foil :  20 

Air  diollaid  nan  cursan 
Bu  dubailte  srein, 
'S  tu  bhuidhneadh  gach  reis, 
A  shiubhlabh  an  rod. 
66 


v^ 


from  a  Photo,  by  M'Isaac  &  Riddel  of  a  water-colour,  the  property  of  Dr  Gillies,  Easdale. 
JOHN    CAMPBELL    OF    THE    BANK. 

[To  face  p.  66. 


TO  CAMPBELL  OF  THE  BANK 


SONG  TO  JOHN  CAMPBELL  OF  THE  BANK. 

John  Campbell  of  the  Bank, 

I  greet  you  well,  man 

To  uphold  kith  and  clan, 
Who  behoved  to  be  great : 
Who,  with  heart  kind  and  manly, 

Surpassed  all  the  rest. 

In  many  a  plight  pressed 
Beyond  common  folk's  fate. 
YouVe  an  uncommon  role 

In  all  Britons'*  sight. 
Bank  of  gold  in  control 

By  legitimate  right ; 
All  that's  there — 'tis  not  small — 

Your  state  doth  uphold. 

By  your  hands  is  controlled. 

Your  mouth's  bidding  doth  wait. 

You  ride  snorting  horses 
Of  the  mincingest  pace, 
With  their  own,  ambling  grace. 
Easily  and  softly : 
In  the  saddle  of  coursers 
With  double  bridle  rein. 
Every  race  you  would  gain 
That  would  traverse  the  way. 
67 


DO  CHAIMBEUL  A'  BHANCA 

Na  h-eich  bhearrcasach,  chalma,  25 

Bhiodh  garbh,  cumachdail, 
Is  iad  gu  h-anmadail,  meanmnach, 

Le  'm  falbh  gruilleumach, 
Cruidheach  dluth-thairgneach, 

Mear,  aineasach,  fuasgailteach,  30 

Ceannardach,  cluas-bhiorach, 
Uallach  gu  leoir. 

B'e  do  roghainn  de  dh'armachd, 

An  targaid  chruinn  ur, 

Gu  meanbh-bhallach  dluth,  35 

Buidhe,  tairgneach,  cruaidh,  seolt' ; 
Is  claidheamh  chinn-airgid 

Cruaidh,  calma  nach  lub, 

Lann  thana  gheur-chuil 

Gu  daingean  ad  dhorn  ;  40 

Mar  ri  dag  ullamh,  ghrad, 

A  bhiodh  a  snap  freasdalach, 
Nach  biodh  stad  air  a  sraid 

Ach  bhi  mach  freagarrach ; 
Fudar  cruaidh  sgeilcearra  46 

Am  feadan  gle  dhireach. 

Ad  lamhan  geal,  mine, 
'S  cuilbheir  caol,  gorm. 

Bu  cheannard  air  feachd  thu 

'N  am  gaisge  no  feum,  60 

Fear  misneachail  treun 
A  b'  fhiosrach  gach  seol ; 
A  fhuair  foghlum  is  fasan, 
Is  aiteas  g'a  reir, 

Tur  pailte  le  ceill  65 

Ag  cur  aignidh  am  moid. 
68 


TO  CAMPBELL  OF  THEiBANK 

The  brave  steeds  and  restive 

Would  fierce  be  and  shapely, 
They  were  spirited  active, 

With  their  curvetting  stately, 
Well  shod  and  attractive. 

Loose,  lusty,  well  fed, 

Prickeared,  with  high  head. 
And  proud  enough  they. 

Of  armour  your  choice  was 

The  targe  round  and  new. 

Bosses  fine  not  a  few. 

Yellow,  nailed,  hard,  well  planned ; 
And  a  sword  silver  hilted, 

Hard  brave  stiffly  made, 

A  thin  sharp  back  blade 

Firmly  grasped  in  your  hand  ; 
With  pistol  quick  banging, 

Trigger  answering  at  once. 
Of  the  sparks  there's  no  hanging. 

But  report  in  response ; 
Powder  crisp  and  unlagging 

In  straightest  tube  stands, 

In  your  white  and  soft  hands 
Blue  slim  gun  at  command. 

You'd  be  chief  o'er  an  army 
In  time  of  daring  or  need. 
Bold  brave  man  indeed. 
Who  every  wile  knew ; 
Who  had  training  and  fashion 
And  blitheness  to  suit. 
Sense  and  prudence  to  boot. 
Your  spirit  adding  to. 
69 


DO  CHAIMBEUL  A'  BHANCA 

An  am  suidhe  na  cuirte, 

No  dubladh  an  t-seisein, 
An  uchd  barra  no  binne, 

'S  i  ffhirinn  a  sheasadh :  60 

Deagh  theangair  gu  deasbut, 

Bu  fhreagarrach  cainnt, 

A  bhuidhneadh  gach  geall 
'S  a  chumadh  a'  choir. 

'S  e  do  shugradh  bha  earailteach,  65 

Ceanalta,  suairc, 

An  am  tional  nan  uaislean 
Mar  riut  a  dh'  61 ; 
Gu  failteachail,  furanach, 

Ag  cuireadh  a  suas  70 

Gach  duine  de'n  t-sluagh 
G'am  buineadh  bhi  'd  choir : 
Na  diucan  bu  riomhaiche 

A  chit'  ann  am  Breatunn, 
Is  bu  chompanach  righ  thu  75 

Le  firinn  's  le  teisteanas, 
Fhir  ghreadhnaich  bu  sheirceile 

Sheasadh  air  blar, 

Fo  'n  deise  bhiodh  Ian 

De  lastainean  oir.  80 

'S  maith  thig  dhuit  'san  fhasan 

An  ad  is  a"*  ghruag, 

Air  an  dreasadh  a  suas 
Am  fasan  an  t-sl6igh ; 
Gu  camagach  daithte,  85 

Lan  chaisreag  is  chuach, 

Gu  bachullach  mu'n  cuairt 

Le  maise  ro  mhor : 
70 


TO  CAMPBELL  OF  THE  BANK 

At  the  sitting  of  the  court, 

Or  doubling  the  session, 
At  bar  or  report, 

Your  truth  made  impression  : 
Speaker  good  at  retort 

Of  speech  apt  and  free, 

Who  would  win  every  plea 
And  uphold  the  right  too. 

'Twas  your  mirth  that  was  guarded, 

'Twas  pleasant  and  sweet, 

When  the  gentry  would  meet 
With  you  round  the  bowl ; 
With  blithe  hearty  welcome 

You  forward  would  place 

Every  man  of  the  race 

Who  place  near  you  should  hold : 
Of  the  Dukes  the  most  rare 

Who  in  Britain  were  seen. 
Nay,  a  King's  peer  you  were 

For  truth  and  esteem, 
Man  most  kind,  debonair, 

That  on  plain  took  his  stand 

In  full  dress  and  grand 
With  lace  all  of  gold. 

Well  become  you  in  fashion 
The  hat  and  the  wig. 
Finely  dressed  up  and  trig 
In  fashion  folk's  state ; 
All  ringleted,  dyed. 

Full  of  loops,  and  of  whorls, 
With,  all  around,  curls, 
In  beauty  so  great ; 
71 


DO  CHAIMBEUL  A'  BHANCA 

Tha  gach  ciabh  mar  do  mhiann, 

Air  an  sniamh  cuniachdail,  90 

Fiamh  dhonn,  torrach,  trom, 

Gun  bhonn  uireasbhuidh, 
Amlagach,  cleachdach, 

Cruinne,  cas-bhuidh,  tlath, 

Cho  gasda  ri  barr  95 

Th'  air  mac  ""san  Roinn  E6rp\ 

'S  i  t'  aghaidh  ghlan,  shoilleir 

Bha  caoimhneil  ro  shuairc, 

Caol  mhala  gun  ghruaim, 

Suil  mheallach  bu  bhoidhch' ;  100 

Gnuis  aillidh  mar  chanach, 

Bu  cheanalta  snuadh, 

Mln  cannach  do  ghruaidh 
Mar  bharra  nan  ros. 
Cha  n''eil  ailleachd  air  each,  105 

Nach  tug  pairt  urram  dhuit ; 
Foinneamh,  finealta,  direach, 

Deas,  fior  chumachdail, 
Calpa,  cruinn,  cothromach, 

Corrach,  gu  d'  shail,  110 

Gun  chron  ort  a'  fas 
O  mhulach  gu  broig. 

Do  smaointeannan  glice, 
Le  misnich  ""s  le  ceill, 

Do  thuigse  ghlan,  gheur,  115 

'S  deagh  thuiteamas  beoil : 
Gun  tuirsneadh,  gun  bhristeadh, 
Gun  trioblaid  fo'n  ghrein 
A  b**  fhiosrach  mi  fein. 

Is  misd  thu  bhi  'd  choir.  120 

72 


TO  CAMPBELL  OF  THE  BANK 

As  meant  all  the  flocks 

Twined  gracefully,  resting, 
Brown  rich  heavy  shocks 

No  thinness  suggesting, 
Tressy  filleted  locks 

Smooth  circling  and  yellow, 

Nice  as  on  head  of  fellow 
In  Europe  they  sate. 

Your  pure  and  bright  features 

Were  kind,  most  benign. 

Eyebrow  frownless  and  fine, 
The  bonniest  winning  eye  ; 
Countenance  fair  as  moss-down, 

Complexion  unique. 

Refined,  pretty,  your  cheek 
Does  with  rose  petals  vie. 
There's  no  charm  in  the  rest 

But  has  part-honoured  you  ; 
Handsome,  straight  and  well-dressed, 

Very  comely,  smart  too 
Rounded  calf,  fashioned  best. 

To  your  heel  tapered  going  ; 

No  flaw's  on  you  showing 
From  crown  unto  shoe. 

Your  thoughts  are  sagacious. 
With  courage  and  sense. 
Pure,  sharp  intelligence, 
And  tactful  discourse : 
With  no  sadness,  downbreaking. 
Or  grief  'neath  the  sun, 
Which  I've  known  you  as  one, 
For  possessing,  the  worse. 
73 


DO  CHAIMBEUL  A'  BHANCA 

'S  ioma  gibht  a  tha  nis, 

Lionmhor  trie  minig  ort, 
lul  is  fios,  muirn  is  mios, 

Flur  am  measg  finich  thu, 
An  uaisle  le  spiorad,  125 

Air  mhireadh  ad  chail, 

'S  tu  iriosal,  baidheil, 
Cinneadail,  coir. 

Gheibhte  sud  ann  ad  thalla, 

Fion  geal  is  maith  tuar,  130 

Deoch  thana  gun  druaip, 
Is  i  fallain  gu  poit ; 
Bhiodh  sunnt  agus  farum 

Air  aire  an  t-sluaigh, 

Deagh  ghean  anns  an  uair,  135 

A''  teannadh  r'a  h-61 ; 
Anns  an  tigh  bu  mhdr  seagh, 

Leis  nach  dragh  aithnichean, 
Muirn  is  caoin,  a  bhios  air  fheadh, 

Cupa  ""s  glain,  canachan,  140 

Coinnlearan  airgid, 

Dreois  ghailtheach  de^n  cheir, 

Feadh  t'aitreibh  gu  leir, 
Is  iad  pailte  gu  leoir. 

B'  e  do  mhiann  a  luchd-ealaidh,  145 

Piob  sgalanta  chruaidh, 
Le  caithream  cho  luath, 
'S  a  ghearradh  na  meoir ; 
Puirt  shiubhlara  mheara, 

Is  fior  allail  cur  suas,  150 

Ann  an  talla  nam  buadh 
Bu  bharrail  mu'n  stor : 
74 


TO  CAMPBELL  OF  THE  BANK 

Many  gifts  now  beseem 

You,  with  manifold  power, 
Tact  and  skill,  love,  esteem ; 

You're  among  kin  a  flower, 
Nobleness,  spirit-gleam 

In  your  temper  combine. 

You  are  humble,  benign, 
Worthy,  clannish  of  course. 

In  your  hall  were  found  yonder 
White  wine,  viands  sound. 
Flowing  draught  without  ground. 
Withal  wholesome  to  pree ; 

There  were  tumult  and  mirthfulness 
In  the  folk's  mind. 
While  in  good  humour  kind 
To  drink  turning  free ; 

In  the  house  of  great  routh, 

Which  guests  deems  no  trouble. 

Genial  love  lasts  throughout, 
Cups,  glass,  can — ^all  o'er  bubble. 

Silver  candlesticks  flout. 
Wax  flares  of  bright  hue. 
Your  dwelling  all  through. 
In  great  plenty  they  be. 

Your  delight  was  in  artistes, 
Shrill  hard  pipe  music. 
With  a  welcome  as  quick 
As  the  fingers  could  streik  ; 
Forth  lively  quick  marches 
'Tis  noble  to  call 
In  the  triumphal  hall 
For  riches  unique : 
75 


DO  CHAIMBEUL  A'  BHANCA 

Cruite  ciuil,  torman  ur, 

Is  e  gu  dliith  ruith-leumnach ; 
Feadain  lorn,  chruinne,  dhonn,  155 

Thogadh  fonn  mireanach ; 
Clarsach  le  grinneas, 

Bu  bhinn-fhoclach  fuaim, 

"'S  cha  tilleadh  tu  'n  duais, 

'N  uair  a  shireadh  tu  ceol.  160 

'S  iomadh  ait  am  bheil  do  charaid, 

Ad  fharraid  mu''n  cuairt, 

An  deas  is  an  tuath, 

Cho  dleasnach  's  bu  choir ; 
Diuc  Earra-ghaidhleach  ainmeil,  165 

Ceann-armailt'  nam  buadh, 

Leis  na  dhearbadh  lamh  chruaidh, 
Is  ris  an  d''earbadh  gu  leoir ; 
An  t-Iarla  cliuiteach  g'an  duthchas 

Bhi  'n  Tur  Bhealaich,  170 

A  chuir  an  ruaig  le  chuid  sluaigh 

Air  na  fuar  Ghallaich  ; 
Morair  Loudon  nan  seang-each, 

Ard  sheanalair  caimp, 

Fhuair  urram  comannd  175 

Far  na  bhuidhinn  na  seoid. 

Tha  iomadh  cas  eile 
Nach  ceilinn  'san  uair, 
Tha  tar  ruing  ort  buaidh, 

A  mhaireas  ri  d*  bheo  ;  180 

Fuil  rioghail  air  lasadh 
A  mach  ann  do  ghruaidh 
Cur  t'aignidh  a  suas 
Le  aiteas  ro  mhor ; 

76 


TO  CAMPBELL  OF  THE  BANK 

Violins,  a  fresh  sound, 

A  close  allegro  croon  ; 
Bare  brown  chanter  round 

That  would  raise  merry  tune ; 
Harp  for  niceness  renowned, 

Tone  sweet  voiced  indeed. 

You'd  withhold  not  the  meed. 
When  you  music  would  seek. 

Many's  the  place  where  your  friend  lives, 

And  asks  for  you  forth, 

In  the  south  and  the  north. 
Duteous  as  befits  kin  ; 
Famous  Duke  of  Argyll, 

Of  victorious  command. 

Who  showed  a  hard  hand 
And  was  much  trusted  in ; 
The  famed  Earl,  with  right 

In  Taymouth  to  reign. 
With  his  host  put  to  flight 

The  cold  Caithness  men  ; 
Loudon  of  the  steeds  light. 

Field-marshal  indeed. 

Had  the  honour  to  lead 
Where  the  heroes  did  win. 

There's  many  a  cause  else 
I'd  not  timely  neglect. 
Which  to  you  draws  respect 
That  will  last  till  you're  dead ; 
Royal  blood  flaming  up 

In  your  cheek  and  each  feature 
Exalting  your  nature 
In  joy  great  and  glad  ; 
77 


ORAN  GHLEANN  URCHAIDH 

Tha  bunntam  is  leirsinn,  185 

Gu  leir  ann  ad  phearsain, 
Fhir  shunntaich  na  feile, 

Sgeul  eibhinn  a  b"  ait  learn, 
Na  'm  faicinn  am  maireach 

Le  abhachd  's  le  muirn  190 

Bhi  'd  charadh  fo  'n  chrun 
An  aite  Righ  De6rs\ 


ORAN  GHLEANN   URCHAIDH. 

Mu'n  tig  ceann  bliadhna  tuille, 

Cha  bhi  sinn  uil'  an  Torr-a-mhuilt ; 

Theid  sinn  thar  na  bealaichean, 
Do''n  fhearann  an  robh  'n  tlus : 

Far  am  bheil  ar  dilsean,  5 

Anns  an  tir  am  bheil  ar  cnid ; 

'S  an  t-ait  an  coir  dhuinn  criochnachadh 
'S  an  tiodhlaicear  ar  cuirp. 

Is  ann  an  Clachan-an-diseirt 

Bu  ghrinn  bhi  ann  an  diugh,  10 

Suidhe  'n  eaglais  mhiorbhailteich, 

An  dasg  bu  riomhach  cur ; 
Ag  eisdeachd  ris  na  dh'innseadh  dhuinn, 

Am  fear  bu  shiobhailt  guth ; 
Is  e  toirt  sgeul  a"*  Bhiobaill  duinn,  15 

'S  a  bhrigh  a'  tighinn  gu  buil. 
78 


SONG  ON  GLENORCHY 

Steadfastness,  insight  thorough, 

Combined  in  your  person. 
Genial  host  with  no  sorrow, 

Glad  news  would  rejoice  one, 
Should  I  see  you  to-morrow 

With  love  and  ovation 

Placed  by  coronation 
In  King  George's  stead. 


SONG   ON  GLENORCHY. 

Before  a  year's  end  more  come, 

All  on  Sheep-hill  we'll  not  be  ; 
We'll  go  across  the  passes. 

To  the  genial  warm  country : 
Where  abide  our  kindred. 

In  the  land  where  is  our  own. 
In  the  place  we  ought  to  die 

And  where  our  corse  will  be  laid  down. 

Oh  !  it  is  in  Glenorchy 

It  were  sweet  to  be  to-day 
Sitting  in  a  wondrous  church 

In  a  pew  curved  elegantly, 
Listening  to  all  was  told  us 

In  his  voice  that  pleasing  was ; 
While  he  told  the  Bible  story, 

And  its  burden  coming  to  pass. 
79 


OEAN  GHLEANN  URCHAIDH 

Gleannan  blath  na  tioralachd, 

An  ro  mhaith  'n  cinn  an  stuth, 
Far  am  bheil  na  h-innseagan, 

Am  bheil  an  siol  an  cur :  20 

Cinnidh  arbhar  craobhach  ann 

Cho  caoin-gheal  ris  a'  ghruth, 
Gu  reachdmhor,  biadhchar,  brioghmhor, 

Trom,  torach,  liontach,  tiugh. 

Bu  chridheil  bhi  's  a'  gheamhradh  ann,  25 

Air  bainnsean  gheibhte  spurt ; 
Fonn-cheol  reidh  na  piobaireachd, 

Cha  bhiodh  sgios  mu  a  sgur : 
Fuaim  nan  teud  aig  fidhleirean 

A  sheinneadh  sios  na  cuir ;  30 

'S  an  luinneag  fein  aig  nionagan 

Bu  bhinne  mhillse  guth. 

Gheibhte  bradan  fior-uisg  ann, 

A'  direadh  ris  gach  sruth ; 
Eoin  an  t-sleibh'  gu  lionmhor,  35 

'S  na  miltean  coileach  dubh ; 
Earba  bheag  an  sgriobain, 

Na  minnein  chrion  's  na  buic, 
'S  a'  ghleann  am  bheil  na  fritheachan, 

'S  na  giomanaich  'nam  bun.  40 

O'n  a  thainig  mi  do''n  f  hearann  so, 

Cha  n-fhaigh  mi  fiu  an  eoin, 
'S  cha  n'eil  fath  bhi  bruidhinn 

Mu'n  fhear  bhuidh'  air  am  bi  'n  croc : 
8o 


SONG  ON  GLENORCHY 

The  warm  and  sheltered  little  dell, 

Where  crops  right  well  will  grow, 
And  where  the  little  patches  are, 

In  which  the  seed  they  sow : 
Branching  corn  will  ripen  there 

As  pleasing-white  as  curd, 
And  rank,  abundant,  juicy. 

Heavy,  fruitful,  thick,  full-eared. 

It  were  heartsome  there  in  winter. 

Fun  at  weddings  would  be  got ; 
The  smooth  stream  of  the  piping. 

For  its  close  we'd  weary  not : 
The  sound  o'  the  strings  of  fiddlers 

Who'd  play  off  the  movements  choice 
And  their  own  carol  by  girls 

Of  the  truest,  sweetest  voice. 

Found  are  salmon  in  fresh  water. 

Ascending  every  stream ; 
The  hill  birds  in  great  numbers. 

Blackcock  in  their  thousands  teem ; 
The  small  doe  of  the  scraping. 

The  wee  fawns,  the  roebuck  race. 
In  the  glen  where  are  the  forests. 

And  the  hunters  at  their  base. 

Since  I  have  come  to  this  land, 

I  get  not  so  much  as  a  bird. 

And  no  use  there  is  in  speaking 

Of  the  yellow-antlered  lord : 
8i 


ORAN  AN  T-SAMHRAIDH 

Cha  b'ionann  's  bhi  mar  Vabhaist  domh 

Aig  braighe  Doire-chro, 
Far  am  bi  na  laii-daimh, 

Ni  'n  damhair  anns  a'  cheo. 

Mo  shoraidh  do  Ghleann  Urchaidh 

Nan  tulchan  glasa  feoir, 
Far  am  bheil  na  sealgairean, 

'S  a  fhuair  iad  ainm  bhi  corr ; 
A"*  dhireadh  ris  na  garbhlaichean, 

Am  biodh  greigh  dhearg  'na  leoir 
'S  bhiodh  gillean  trom  le  eallachan 

A  dh'fhagadh  tarbhach  bord. 

*S  an  uair  a  thigte  dhathaigh  leo, 

Gu'm  b'f  hasanta  bhur  seol, 
A'  suidhe  'san  tigh-thairne, 

'S  bhi  dannsa  mar  ri  ceol : 
Cridhealas  r'a  cheile, 

'S  na  bein  a  bhi  'gan  61 ; 
'S  cha  n-fhaicte  cuis  'na  h-eiginn 

An  am  eigheach  air  an  stop. 


ORAN  AN   T-SAMHRAIDH. 

""N  UAiR  thig  an  samhradh  geugach  oirnn, 
Theid  sian  nan  speur  o'n  ghruamaiche, 

Thig  tlus  is  blathas  is  aoibhneas, 

Theid  gach  ni  g'a  reir  am  buadhalachd. 

82 


SONG  TO  THE  SUMMER 

It  was  not  as  I  was  used  to 

In  the  braes  of  Doire  Chro, 
Where  used  to  be  the  prime  harts, 

In  the  mist  that  wooing  go. 

My  farewell  to  Glenorchy 

Of  the  grassy  hills  and  green, 
Where  abide  the  hunters, 

WhoVe  the  name  of  being  keen  ; 
Who  would  ascend  the  rough  ground. 

Where  in  plenty's  the  red  herd, 
And  lads  weighed  down  with  burdens 

Which  would  leave  a  loaded  board. 

And  when  home  was  come  to  with  them. 

It  was  your  accustomed  way 
To  be  seated  in  the  tavern. 

And  in  dance  with  music  stay : 
There  was  heartiness  together ; 

For  the  hides,  o'er  throats  to  coup  ; 
And  no  affair  seemed  pressing 

When  calling  for  the  stoup. 


SONG  TO  THE  SUMMER. 

"  When  the  days  of  leafy  summer  come. 
And  the  sky  is  cleared  of  gloom. 
Kindly  rays  of  warmth  and  gladness 
Health  restore  and  banish  sadness. 

83 


ORAN  AN  T-SAMHRAIDH 

Thig  feart  le  neart  na  greine  oirnn,  5 

Ni  'n  saoghal  gu  leir  a  chuartachadh ; 

Thig  teas  o  slios  'n  uair  dh'eireas  i 
Ni  feum,  ""s  cha  treigear  uainne  e. 

Bidh  por  ann  an  tir  ghrainnsearan, 

Chur  sil  aims  an  tim  ghnathaichte ;  10 

A^  toirt  brigh  as  an  uir  nadurra, 

O'n  bhlar  gu  bharr  a  ghluaiseas  e : 
Gu  reachdmhor,  breac,  neo-fhaillineach, 

Trom-choinnleineach  garbh-ghraineanach, 
Gu  diasach,  riabhach,  caileanach,  15 

Gu  biadhchar,  Ian,  *'n  uair  bhuainear  e. 


'S  glan  faile  nan  geug  liomharra, 

Mu  gharadh  nan  seud  lionmhora : 
Am  biodh  ailleagain  gle  rlomhacha 

Le  blatlias  a  slor-chur  snuadh  orra ;  20 

Gu  h-ubhlach,  peurach,  fioguiseach, 

Glan,  brioghmhor,  diomhair,  guamaiseach  ; 
Gach  sraid  as  aillidh  grineachan. 

Mar  phaileas  righ  r'an  cuartachadh. 

'S  ro  ghreannar  gach  gleann  fior-mhonaidh,  25 

Cur  lomhaigh  ghrinn  an  uachdar  air ; 
Gach  lus  le  bharr  cho  mhiorbhailteach, 

A'  fas  fo  nihile  suaicheantas  ; 
Gu  duilleach,  lurach,  ditheanach, 

Glan,  riomhach,  lionmhor,  cuachanach,  30 

Gu  ropach,  dosach,  misleanach, 

Gu  millteachail,  min,  uainealach. 
84 


SONG  TO  THE  SUMMER 

The  sun  comes  forth  in  living  strength 

O'er  the  whole  world's  breadth  and  length, 

Abounding  life  springs  from  his  side 
In  good  and  joy  which  shall  abide/"' 

There  will  be  seed  in  grangers'  clime 

To  sow  at  the  appointed  time, 
Drawing  the  pith  from  Nature's  breast 

Which  moves  from  soil  to  the  crop's  crest : 
Unfailing,  rank,  of  varied  strain. 

Of  heavy  stalk,  and  rough  with  grain. 
All  brindled,  husky,  and  well-eared. 

Food-giving,  full,  when  it  is  sheared. 


Pure  fragrance  from  smooth  bough  and  stem 

The  garden  round  of  many  a  gem  : 
Where  will  be  jewels  passing  fair. 

Heat  decks  them  aye  with  beauty  rare ; 
With  many  an  apple,  pear,  and  fig. 

Pure,  sappy,  well-concealed,  and  trig ; 
Each  walk  the  beauteous  green  lawns  bound 

Like  a  king's  court  them  fencing  round. 

Right  shaggy  is  each  Highland  glade. 

Its  surface  dons  a  lovely  shade ; 
Each  herb  with  crown  so  wondrous  showing 

Beneath  a  thousand  streamers  growing  ; 
All  leafy,  lovely,  blossom- draped, 

Pure,  fine,  abundant  and  cup-shaped, 
Tangled,  bushy,  with  sweet-grass  seen, 

And  slender  arrowgrass  pale  green. 
8s 


ORAN  AN  T-SAMHRAIDH 

Bidh  fonn  air  gach  neach  nadurra, 

Bhi  sealltainn  gach  ni  gnathaichte, 
Am  blar  lorn  ag  ciir  dreach  fasaich  air,  35 

Gach  la  cur  strac  neo-thruaillidh  air ; 
Gu  molach,  torrach,  caiteineach, 

Gu  craobhach,  crasgach,  cnuasachdach, 
Gu  h-urair,  dubh-ghorm,  aileanta, 

Le  frasan  blatha,  bruaidleanach.  40 

Bidh  gach  frith  gu  liontach,  feurach ; 

'S  theid  na  feidh  'nan  eideadh  suaicheanta 
Gu  h-uallach,  binneach,  ceumanach, 

Grad-leumanach,  bior-chluaiseanach ; 
Gu  crocach,  cabrach,  ceir-ghealach,  46 

Gu  mangach,  eangach,  eildeagach, 
""Gan  grianadh  's  a'  mhios  Cheiteanach, 

Air  slios  an  t-sleibh'  mu'n  cuartaich  iad. 

Bidh  laogh  ri  taobh  gach  aighe  dhiubh, 

'Nan  laighe  mar  as  coir  dhaibh  ;  50 

Bidh  gach  damh  is  mang  comh-aighearach, 

'N  uair  thig  Feill  Sheathain  Roid  orra : 
Bu  tuille  loin  is  saoghail, 

Do  gach  neach  a  ghabhadh  gaol  orra, 
Bhi  trie  ag  amharc  caol  orra  55 

'S  ag  eisdeachd  gaoir  an  cronanaich. 

Bidh  maoisleach  a'  chinn  ghuanaich, 

Ag  cur  dreach  is  snuadh  is  tuar  oirre, 

'S  i  tilgeadh  cuilg  a"*  gheamhraidh 

A  chuir  gurt  is  greann  is  fuachd  oirre :  60 

86 


SONG  TO  THE  SUMMER 

Each  natural  person's  heart  will  sing 

A-viewing  every  common  thing, 
The  bare  moor  donning  wilding  treasure, 

And  each  day  adding  no  mean  measure ; 
Fruitful,  hirsute,  with  shag  and  nap, 

The  branches  swell  with  fertile  sap. 
And  fresh,  dark  green,  their  fragrant  bowers. 

From  genial  and  refreshing  showers. 

Full  grassy  is  each  forest  holm  ; 

The  deer  in  banner  garb  will  come, 
Proud  and  peaked,  and  pacing  hard. 

Suddenly -bounding,  and  quick-eared ; 
White-reared  and  horned  in  many  tines. 

With  nimble-footed  fawns  and  hinds. 
Sunning  themselves  in  the  month  of  May, 

On  the  side  of  the  slope  round  which  they  stray. 

A  calf  beside  each  several  hind, 

All,  as  behoves  them,  snug  reclined ; 
Each  stag  and  fawn  together  play 

When  round  comes  John  the  Baptist's  day : 
More  of  long  life  and  food  there  were 

To  every  one  would  for  them  care. 
Oft  looking  at  them  narrowly. 

And  listening  to  their  crooning  cry. 

The  giddy-headed  doe  will,  too, 

Put  on  her  beauty  form  and  hue ; 
The  winter's  wear  away  she  throws 

Which  clothed  her  with  cold  gloom  morose  : 
87 


ORAN  AN  T-SAMHRAIDH 

Cn  thainig  blathas  an  t-samhraidh  oirnn, 

Cuiridh  ise  mantal  ruadh  oirre, 
'S  tha  inntinn  ghrinn  d'a  reir  aice, 

Gu  fallain,  feitheach,  fuasgailteach. 

Bidh  am  minnein  urair  meanbh-bhallach,  65 

Gros  tioram  air  a'  ghnuis  bu  sgeinmeile ; 
Gu  mireanach,  luthor,  anmadail, 

Ri  sliniiean  iia  h-earb''  an  guailleachan : 
Bu  chlis  feadh  pris  mu  anmoch  iad, 

Gu  trie  fo  iochd  nam  meanbh-chuileag,  70 

Gu  sgrideil,  gibeach,  gearr-mhasach, 

An  sliochd  d'an  ainm  na  ruadhagan. 

Bidh  gach  creutair  faillinneach, 

A  bha  greis  an  cas  na  fuaralachd, 
A^  togail  an  cinn  gu  h-abhachdach,  75 

O'n  a  thainig  blathas  le  buaidh  orra : 
Na  h-eoin  's  a'  phunc  a  b'abhaist  daibh, 

Gu  ceolmhor,  fonnmhor,  failteachail, 
P'eadh  phreas  is  thorn  ri  gairdeachas, 

Gun  chas  a  dh'fhagadh  truaillidh  iad.  80 

^S  neo-thruaillidh  am  por  lionmhor  ud, 

'S  gur  speiseil  grinn  a  ghluaiseas  iad ; 
Le'm  beus  a'  seinn  mar  fhidhleirean, 

Gur  h-aoibhinn  binn  ri  m'  chluasaibh  iad : 
'S  glan  luinneagach,  fior-inntinneach,  85 

A"  chanain-chinn  thig  uapa-san  ; 
""S  iad  gobach,  sgiathach,  cireanach 

Gu  h-iteach,  dionach,  cluaineiseach 


SONG  TO  THE  SUMMER 

Since  summer  warmth  to  us  has  spread, 
She  will  put  on  her  mantle  red, 

With  her  accords  her  lovely  mind, 
Tis  healthy,  nervous,  unconfined. 

The  fresh,  small-spotted,  kidlet  race, 

A  dry  snout  on  the  comeliest  face. 
Is  vigorous,  merry,  sprightly  shy, 

At  the  doe's  side  but  shoulder  high  : 
Active  at  e'en  'mong  bushes,  ridges, 

Oft  at  the  mercy  of  the  midges, 
They  lively,  neat,  and  short-tailed  go. 

The  generation  named  the  roe. 

And  every  frail  created  thing. 

Which  erst  with  cold  was  perishing. 
Will  gaily  raise  their  heads  erect. 

Since  heat  has  reached  them  with  effect 
Birds  catch  the  note  they  used  to  sing, 

Musical,  tuneful,  welcoming, 
'Mid  bush  and  knoll  with  glee  right  glad, 

And  no  distress  to  make  them  sad. 


Not  mean  yon  numerous  family  prove, 

And  proudly  finely  do  they  move, 
Sing  in  their  mode  like  viol-players, 

They're  sweet  melodious  to  mine  ears : 
Pure,  choral,  truly  full  of  soul. 

The  speaking  head-notes  from  them  roll ; 
And  beaked,  and  winged,  and  combed  are  they, 

Feathered,  close-clad,  retired  away. 


OKAN  AN  T-SAMHRAIDH 

Bidh  an  coileach  le  thorman  tuchanach, 

Air  chnocana  gorm  a"*  durdanaich,  90 

Puirt  fhileanta,  cheolmhor,  shiubhlacha, 

Le  ribheid  a'  dluth-chur  seoil  orra ; 
Gob  crom  nam  puncan  luthora, 

'S  a  chneas  le  dreach  air  a  dhublachadh, 
Gu  slios-dubh,  girt-gheal,  ur-bhallach,  95 

'S  da  chirc  a"*  sugradh  boidheach  ris. 

Thig  a'  chubhag  's  a'  mhios  Cheitein  oirnn, 

■"S  bidh  'n  uiseag  'na  seuchdan  comhla  rith**, 
'S  an  dreathan  ag  gleusadh  sheannsairean 

Air  a'  gheig  as  aird^  a  mhothaicheas  e.  100 

Bidh  choille  gu  leir  's  na  glean ntaichean 

Air  chrathadh  le  h-aoibhneas  canntaireachd, 
Aig  fuaim  a"*  chuanail  cheannsalaich, 

Feadh  phreas,  is  chrann,  is  oganan. 

Na  doireachan  coilP  bu  diomhaire,  105 

'S  na  croinn  mu'n  iadh  na  smeoraichean 
Theid  gach  craobh  an  ceutaichead, 

Bidh  caochladh  fiamh  is  neoil  orra ; 
Gu  meanganach,  direach,  sniomhanach, 

Theid  cridhe  nam  freumh  an  soghaireachd,     110 
Le  trusgan  ur  g'a  mheudachadh, 

Barr-guc  air  mheuraibh  nosara. 

Bidh  am  beith  gu  cuisleach,  fiuranach, 

Gu  failleanach,  slatach,  ur-fhasach ; 
Thig  snodhach  fo  'n  chairt  is  druisealachd,  115 

Bidh  duilleach  is  rusg  mar  chomhdach  air : 
90 


SONG  TO  THE  SUMMER 

The  cock  with  his  hoarse  clack  will  be 

On  hillocks  green,  and  murmuring  free 
Tunes  eloquent,  quick,  musical, 

His  reed  voice  punctuating  all ; 
A  crooked  beak  with  notes  of  power ; 

His  breast  with  beauty  clothed  twice  o'er, 
Dark-sided,  white-girthed,  spotted  new, 

And  prettily  two  hens  him  woo. 

In  the  month  of  May  will  the  cuckoo  come. 

And  the  lark  in  her  doublet  will  with  her  roam. 
And  the  wren,  tuning  his  chanter,  cleaves 

To  the  highest  branch  which  he  perceives. 
And  all  the  woods  and  glens  will  be 

Shaken  with  joyous  melody. 
At  the  unrivalled  songsters"*  sound 

On  bush  and  branch  and  twig  around. 

The  wood-groves'  loneliest  retreat. 

The  trees  round  which  the  thrushes  meet. 
Each  bough  goes  to  perfection  new. 

With  everchanging  form  and  hue ; 
Branching,  in  straightness,  crookedness. 

The  roots'  core  grows  in  sappiness. 
With  mantle  fresh  to  make  it  big. 

And  blossom  on  each  juicy  twig. 

The  veiny  birch,  a  tendril  mesh, 

With  sprays  and  saplings  growing  fresh ; 

Sap,  juice  beneath  the  bark  will  spring. 
Rind,  foliage  as  a  covering : 
91 


ORAN  AN  T-SAMHRAIDH 

Le  bruthainn  theid  brigh  na  duslainn 

Ann  am  barrach  dluth  nan  oganan 
Gu  pluranach,  caoin,  maoth-bhlasta, 

Mo  roghainn  de  shnaoisean  sroine  e.  120 

'S  sC  bhiolaire  luideach,  shliom-chluasach, 

Ghlas,chruinn-cheannach,  chaoin,  ghorm-neulach 
Is  i  fas  glan,  uchd-ard,  gilmeanach, 

Fo  bharr  geal,  iomlan,  sonraichte ; 
Air  ghlaic  bu  taitneach  cearmonta,  125 

Le  seamragan  ^s  le  neoineanan  ; 
'S  gach  lus  a  dh'fheudainn  ainmeachadh, 

Cur  anbharra  dhreach  boidhchead  air. 

Gur  badanach,  caoineil,  mileanta, 

Cruinn,  mopach,  min-chruthach,  mongaineach  130 
Fraoch  groganach,  dubh-dhonn,  grls-dearg, 

Barr  cluigeanach,  sin  teach,  gorm-bhileach ; 
Gu  dosach,  gasach,  uainealach, 

Gu  cluthor,  cluaineach,  tolmagach ; 
'S  a'  mhil  'na  fudar  gruaige  dha,  135 

'Ga  chumail  suas  an  sporsalachd. 

■"S  i  gruag  an  deataich  riomhaich  i, 

'S  m6r  a  brigh  's  is  lionmhor  buaidh  oirre, 
Ceir-bheach  nan  sgeap  a'  cinntinn  oirr', 

Seillean  breac  feadh  tuim  'ga  chnuasachd  sud ;  140 
Gu  cianail,  tiamhaidh,  srann  aige 

Air  bharra  nam  meas  a"*  dranndanaich, 
Bhiodh  miann  bhan-6g  is  bhaintighearnan 

^Na  fhardaich  ghreannar,  ghuamaisich. 
92 


SONG  TO  THE  SUMMER 

With  sultriness  the  thickets'  pith 

To  the  boughs'  top  foHage  travelleth, 

And  flowery,  mild,  sweet-flavoured  blows  ; 
It  is  my  favourite  snuft*  for  the  nose. 

The  ragged  water-cress,  sleek-eared, 

Close-headed,  mild,  dark-hued,  unseared. 
Pure,  dainty,  high-breasted  grows  she 

'Neath  pale  top,  nobly,  perfectly ; 
In  pleasant  tidy  dell  she  lies 

With  shamrock  posies  and  daisies ; 
And  all  plants  I  might  make  my  theme — 

They  beauty's  aspect  don  supreme. 

Heath-tufted,  mild,  and  stately-craned. 

Round,  tasselated,  slim-shaped,  maned. 
And  wrinkled,  dark  brown,  white  and  red, 

Bell-topped,  blue-lipped  and  extended ; 
Bushy  and  scraggy,  green  and  pale, 

Cosy  and  rank  on  hill  and  dale ; 
With  honey  as  powder  for  its  tress. 

Upholding  it  in  stylishness. 

Its  is  the  beauteous  perfumed  hair, 

Great  pith,  abundant  virtue  there, 
Beeswax  of  the  skeps  upon  it  scattered, 

Brown  bee  'mid  knolls  yon  treasure  gathered ; 
Eerie,  dreary  is  his  bumming, 

Upon  the  top  of  the  fruits  a-humming, 
Young  maids  and  ladies  would  delight 

In  his  curious  dwelling,  snug  and  tight. 
93 


ORAN  AN  T-SAMHRATDH 

Is  e  gu  sriteach,  riabhach,  ciar-cheannach,  145 

Breac,  buidh',  stiallach,  srian-bhallach. 
Gobach,  dubhanach,  riasgach,  iargalta, 

Ri  gniomh  gu  dian  mar  thuathanach : 
Gu  surdail,  grunndail,  deanadach, 

Neo-dhiomhanach  'na  uaireannan  ;  150 

'S  e  faile  lusan  fiadhaiche 

Bhios  aige  bhiadh  's  a  thuarasdal. 

Gach  tain  as  airde  chruinnicheas 

Do'n  airigh  uile  ghluaiseas  iad ; 
Thig  bliochd  is  dair  gun  uireasbhuidh,  155 

Craobh  ard  air  cuman  gruagaiche ; 
Na  h-aighean  as  oige  laidire, 

Nach  dYhiosraich  trath  nam  buaraichean, 
Bidh  luinneag  aig  ribhinn  chul-duinn  daibh, 

'Gam  briodal  ciuin  le  duanagan.  160 

'S  fior-ionmhuinn  mu  thrath  noine 

Na  laoigh  oga  choir  na  buaile  sin, 
Gu  tarr-gheal,  ball-bhreac,  botainneach, 

Sgiathach,  druim-fhionn,  sroin-fhionn,  guailleach ; 
Is  iad  gu  li-dhonn,  ciar-dhubh,  caraideach,  165 

Buidh\  gris-fhionn,  cra-dhearg,  suaicheanta, 
Seang,  sliosrach,  direach,  sar-chumpach, 

Min,  sliogta,  barr  an  suainiche. 

Bidh  foirm  is  colg  air  creutairean, 

Gu  stoirmeil,  gleusf  'g  ath-nuadhachadh ;       170 
Le  forgan  torchuirt  feudalach, 

An  trend,  's  an  spreidh,  's  am  buachaille ; 
94 


SONG  TO  THE  SUMMER 

He's  greyish,  brindled,  dun  of  head. 

Striped,  speckled,  yellow  streaked,  spotted, 
Beaked,  hooked,  of  rasping  churlish  mien. 

For  action  like  a  farmer  keen : 
Thrifty,  alert  with  busy  powers. 

And  unremiss  in  labour's  hours ; 
It  is  the  odour  of  wild  flowers 

That  him  with  food  and  wages  dowers. 

Whatever  droves  the  highest  meet, 

Up  to  the  shieling  all  retreat ; 
Milk,  cattle-pairing  do  not  fail. 

High  foam  on  maiden's  milking-pail ; 
The  youngest  heifers  and  most  prime. 

That  ne'er  have  known  the  shackle  time, 
A  brown-haired  maiden  sings  their  praise. 

Lulling  them  quiet  with  her  lays. 

At  noontide  veritably  dear 

Are  the  young  calves  that  fold  a-near, 
White-bellied,  well-hoofed,  speckled-bright. 

Well-shouldered,  sides,  backs,  noses  white ; 
Dun-coloured,  dark  grey,  twinned  are  they. 

Yellow,  blood-red,  conspicuous,  grey, 
Clean,  glossy,  straight,  well-shaped  beside, 

Smooth  licked  the  surface  of  their  hide. 

On  creatures  there's  good  cheer  and  fling 
In  brave  trim  them  rejuvenating ; 

With  stir  of  jostling  of  the  stock. 

The  herd,  the  herdsman,  and  the  flock : 

95 


ORAN  AN  T-SAMHRAIDH 

An  gleann  barrach,  bileach,  reidhleanach, 
Creamh,  raineach,  reisg,  is  luachai reach, 

■"S  e  caoin,  cannach,  min-chruthach,  ceutach,  175 

Fireach,  sleibhteach,  feurach,  fuaranach. 

Bidh  mionntainn,  camomhil,  's  sobhraichean, 

Geur-bhileach,  lonach,  luasganach ; 
Cathair-thalmhanta,  's  carbhainn  chroc-cheannach 

Gharg,  amlach,  romach,  chluas-bhi orach  ;  180 

Subhan-laire,  's  faile  ghroiseidean  ; 

Lan  lilidh  's  rosan  cuachanach, 
Is  clann  bheag  a'  trusadh  leolaichean, 

Buain  chorr  an  cos  nam  bruachagan. 

Bidh  'm  blar  fo  strac  le  uraireachd,  185 

Oidhch"'  luchair  bhruinceach,  cheobanach, 
Gach  srabh  's  a  barr  air  lubadh  orra 

Le  cudthrom  an  druchd  's  le  lodalachd ; 
'Na  phaidearan  lionmhor,  cuirneineach, 

Gu  brioghmhor,  sughmhor,  solasach ;  190 

Cuiridh  ghrian  gu  dian  'na  sniuidean  e, 

Le  fiamh  a  gnuis'  'san  og-mhaduinn. 

'N  uair  a  dhearsas  a  gnuis  bhaoisgeil, 

Gu  fial,  flathail,  fiamh,  geal,  caoimhneil  oirnn, 
Thig  maitheas  is  gniomh  le  saoibhireachd,  195 

Chuir  loinn  air  an  Roinn  Eorpa  so  ; 
Le  eibhneas  greine  soillseachadh. 

Air  an  speur  gu  reidh  a  spaoileas  i. 
Cur  an  ceill  gach  feum  a  rinn  i  dhuinn, 

G'a  fhoillseachadh  's  g'a  mhdideachadh,  200 

96 


SONG  TO  THE  SUMMER 

The  glen  teeming  with  crops,  leaves,  meads 
And  garlic,  bracken,  rushes,  reeds — 

Mild,  pretty,  finely  shaped,  excels 

In  hill  ground,  grasses,  slopes  and  wells. 

Mint,  primroses,  and  camomile, 

Sharp-lipped,  on  meadows  wave  and  smile ; 
Yarrow,  and  caraway's  antlered  head 

Rough,  hairy,  sharp-eared,  ringleted ; 
Gooseberries  scent,  strawberries  strewn  ; 

Roses  cup-shaped,  lilies  full  blown ; 
And  little  children  tulips  fetch. 

Dig  hole  in  banks  for  bitter  vetch. 

Brimful  of  freshness  the  moor  will  be, 

A  dogday's  night,  drizzling,  sultry. 
And  each  stem  with  its  top  bent  o'er 

By  the  dew's  weight  and  load  it  bore ; 
Dew-spangled  posies  numerous. 

Sappy  and  gladdening,  full  of  juice — 
The  sun  soon  makes  it  smoke  away 

With  the  sight  of  his  face  at  break  of  day. 

Whene'er  will  shine  his  dazzling  face. 

With  generous,  princely,  bright,  kind  grace, 
Good  work  with  richness  will  unite. 

Which  to  this  Europe  have  given  delight ; 
With  joy  of  the  sun  that  shines  undim. 

In  the  heaven  serene  that  drapeth  him. 
What  good  he  did  us  showing  yet. 

Revealing  and  confirming  it. 


97 


DO  CHAIPTEAN  CAIMBEUL 


ORAN  DO  CHAIFl'EAN  DONNCHADH  CAIM- 
BEUL AN  GEARD  DHUN-EIDEINN. 

A'  BHLiADHNA  chruinnich  an  campa 

'S  a  thainig  an  trioblaid, 
Bha  Donnchadh  6g  Caimbeul 

Air  cheann  na  Milisi ; 
Fear  urramach,  seolta,  6 

Bu  mhdr  foghlum  is  misneach, 
G'an  tarruing  an  ordugh 

Ann  an  coireanaibh  miosail. 

'S  mor  do  mheas  aig  na  daoine 

Bh'air  do  thaobh  anns  an  uair  sin,  10 

A**  dol  air  an  adhairt 

Ann  an  aghaidh  an  fhuathais  ; 
'N  uair  bu  bhraise  bha  ''n  teine, 

Is  fras  pheileir  mu'n  cuairt  dhuit, 
■"S  ann  air  thoiseach  na  h-armailt  15 

A  dhearbh  thu  do  chruadal. 

Ann  an  latha  Chuil-lodair 

A'  dol  an  toiseach  a'  bhatailt, 
'S  mdr  a  b'fheairrd  iad  thu  rompa, 

A  thoirt  daibh  brosnachadh  focail ;  20 

Fir  Ghleann  Urchaidh  bha  'd  dheidh, 

'S  bu  tu  roghainn  de  chaiptein, 
Ge  bu  sheanalair  ard  thu, 

B'  fhiach  thu  'n  t-aite  bhi  agad. 

98 


TO  CAPTAIN  CAMPBELL 


SONG  TO  CAPTAIN  DUNCAN  CAMPBELL 
IN  THE  EDINBURGH  GUARD. 

The  year  came  the  trouble 

And  forces  were  banded, 
'Twas  young  Duncan  Campbell 

The  militia  commanded ; 
A  brave  man  and  skilled, 

Of  great  training  and  spirit, 
Drawing  troops  up  in  order 

In  corps  of  fine  merit. 

Great  respect  had  the  men 

On  your  side  at  that  hour. 
As  forward  advancing 

They  faced  the  dread  power ; 
When  the  fire  was  the  keenest. 

Ball-drift  round  you  flaring. 
In  the  van  of  the  host 

You  gave  proof  of  your  daring. 

On  the  day  of  Culloden 

You  headed  the  fighting ; 
Much  the  better  they  were  of 

Your  words  them  inciting ; 
Men  of  Orchy  behind 

You,  of  captains  the  best ; 
Were  you  a  high  general. 

You  were  worthily  placed. 
99 


DO  CHAIPTEAN  CAIMBEUL 

'S  cha  do  smaointich  thu  gealtachd,  25 

'S  cha  b"*  fhasan  leat  curam, 
'S  ann  a  bha  fin  nt inn  a"*  togail 

An  am  losgadh  an  fhudair : 
'S  nan  geur  lannan  glasa 

Bhi  le  braise  Van  rusgadh,  30 

Bu  tu  ceannard  an  fheachda 

Nach  gabhadh  feachdadh  no  lubadh. 

Bu  cheann-feadhna  deas  calm  thu 

Nach  robh  cearbach  ad  ghaisge, 
Tarruing  suas  do  chuid  daoine,  35 

'N  uair  a  sgaoileadh  a""  bhratach ; 
Dh^irich  leatsa  buaidh-larach 

Anns  gach  cas  a  chaidh  seachad, 
'S  na  fhuair  thu  de  phairtidh 

Rinn  thu  'n  aireamh  thoirt  dathaigh.  40 

Ceann  na  ceiir  is  na  cuideachd, 

Bu  mhor  tuigs**  agus  reusan, 
Am  fear  misneachail  cliuiteach, 

Comhlann  ur  de  shHochd  Dhiarmaid ; 
Tha  t'  aigne  mar  leomhann,  45 

Chuir  thu  moran  an  gniomh  dheth ; 
Le  d'  chainnt  bhunailteich,  phuncail, 

Sar  chompanach  iarla. 

Dhearbh  thu  fein  a  bhi  suairce 

Ann  an  uaisF  is  an  glaine,  50 

'S  ioma  car  air  gach  taobh  dhiot 

Air  am  faodainn  do  shloinneadh, 

lOO 


TO  CAPTAIN  CAMPBELL 

You  had  no  thought  of  fear, 

And  care  ne'er  was  your  fashion, 
Your  courage  was  rising. 

When  powder  was  flashing : 
And  the  sharp  blades  and  bright 

To  be  suddenly  baring. 
You  were  the  war  chief. 

Not  to  bow  or  bend  caring. 

A  trim  and  brave  chieftain 

Not  awkward  in  valour 
You  drew  up  your  men. 

When  unfurled  was  the  colour  ; 
With  you  victory  lay 

In  each  crisis  that  came. 
What  you  got  as  your  party 

Full  tale  you  took  hame. 

King  of  sense  and  good  fellows. 

Great  your  reason  and  clear  wit, 
Man  famed  and  courageous. 

Scion  fresh  of  Clan  Diarmid : 
Lionlike  is  your  nature. 

Much  you  put  it  in  peril ; 
With  your  sound,  cultured  speech 

YouVe  fit  peer  for  an  Earl. 

You  proved  yourself  gentle. 
With  noble  and  pure  grace. 

From  many  strains  round 

Your  descent  I  might  sure  trace, 

lOI 


DO  CHAIPTEAN  CAIMBEUL 

Shliochd  nan  comMann  bu  chaoimhneile 

O  thigh  Achadh-loinne, 
De'n  fhuil  as  airde  shliochd  Dhiarmaid,  55 

Tha  *n  dream  cheutach  g'am  bheil  thu. 

'S  e  meud  na  h-uaisle  tha  ""d  chorp, 

Tha  sior  chur  brosgladh  at  inntinn, 
Bu  mhor  ffheum  anns  a"*  chogadh, 

'N  uair  a  b'  oifigeach  Righ  thu :  60 

Rinn  thu  gnothach  do  chairdean, 

Gu  nadurra  dileas, 
'S  cliu  a  chosnadh  o  d'  naimhdean, 

'N  uair  a  thainig  an  t-siochaint. 

A'  bhliadhna  thogadh  na  creachan,  65 

'S  a  loisgeadh  aitreabh  nan  Garbh-chrioch 
'S  mdr  a  rinn  thu  g'am  bacadh, 

O  luchd  nan  casagan  dearga ; 
A  liuthad  beannachdan  bhochdan, 

A  rinn  thu  chosnadh  'san  am  sin,  70 

Tha  gu  siorruidh  am  freasdal 

Ri  bhi  leasachadh  f  anma. 

Cha  b'e  t'  fhasan  bhi  'n  ti 

Air  cuid  nam  fior  dhaoine  bochda, 
Ach  an  leigeadh  roimh  d'  lionaibh,  75 

Anns  gach  tir  air  'n  do  chroisg  thu ; 
'N  uair  bhiodh  each  anns  na  cuiltibh 

Ri  spuinneadh  's  ri  robadh, 
'S  ann  a  bhiodh  tu  le  d'  dhaoinibh 

A  mach  air  aodann  nan  cnocan.  80 

I02 


TO  CAPTAIN  CAMPBELL 

Seed  of  heroes  most  kind 
Of  the  house  of  Auchlyne, 

Clan  Diarmid's  best  blood 
The  good  folk  of  your  line. 

Such  high  strain  in  your  frame 

In  your  mind  aye  puts  vir, 
Great  your  service  in  war 

As  a  king's  officer : 
You  stood  firm  by  your  friends 

Lovingly,  faithfully, 
Fame  was  won  from  your  foes 

When  the  peace  came  to  stay. 

The  year  spoils  were  lifted. 

And  burnt  Roughbound  farms. 
You  did  much  to  secure  them 

From  red-coats'  alarms. 
Poor  folk's  blessings  so  many 

You  won  that  occasion. 
Their  effect  must  be  ever 

For  your  souPs  salvation. 

Not  your  way  to  show  zeal 

While  the  real  poor  the  cost  bore. 
But  your  nets  through  to  let  them, 

Each  land  that  you  crossed  o'er ; 
When  the  rest  were  in  closets 

To  rob  and  to  plunder. 

You'd  be  with  your  men 

On  the  hiU-face  out  yonder. 
103 


DO  CHAIPTEAN  CAIMBEUL 

Bha  thu  teom'  air  gach  fear-ghleus, 

A  shiubhal  garbhiaich  an  t-sleibhe ; 
Bu  tu  roghainn  an  t-sealgair, 

A  dhol  a  mharbhadh  na  h-eilde ; 
Ann  am  fasach  na  coille,  85 

Na  'n  doire  na  geige, 
Bu  tu  namhaid  a"*  choilich 

As  moich"*  a  ghoireadh  ""s  a'  Cheitein. 

'S  inaith  thig  feile  cruinn  uasal 

Mu'n  cuairt  air  do  bhreacan,  90 

Bonaid  ghorm  a'  bhile  shiod'  ort, 

'S  peiteag  riomhach  de'*n  tartan ; 
Brog  theann  air  dheagh  chumadh 

Mu'n  troigh  as  cuimeir  air  faiche, 
"•S  air  do  chalpannan  soilleir,  95 

Osain  ghoirid  is  gartain. 

'S  maith  thig  claidheamh  geur  cuil  ort, 

Lann  ur  nan  tri  chlaisean, 
Tana,  faobharach,  fuileach, 

Aotrom,  guineach,  geur,  sgai teach ;  100 

Dias  chuimeir  de'n  stailinn, 

'S  i  spairrt'  an  ceann  aisneach, 
Ann  an  iomchar  iiallach, 

'S  an  crios  gualainn  ""san  fhasan. 

Paidhir  dhag  air  do  ghiulan,  105 

B'e  do  run  a  bhi  'd  shiubhal. 
Mar  ri  cuilbheir  deas,  aotrom, 

Gunna  caol  a'  bheoil  chumhainn, 
104 


TO  CAPTAIN  CAMPBELL 

Apt  at  all  manly  craft, 

To  tread  rough  slope  of  hill ; 
The  choicest  of  hunters 

The  hind  to  go  kill ; 
You,  in  pasture  of  woodland, 

Or  grove  of  the  spray, 
Were  the  foe  of  the  cock 

That  crew  soonest  in  May. 

Well  the  brave  circling  kilt 

Comes  around  on  your  plaid. 
Blue  bonnet  silk-rimmed. 

Tartan  jacket  well-made ; 
Fitting  shoe  finely  shaped. 

Foot  on  green  there's  none  smarter. 
And  on  your  clean  calves  are 

The  short  hose  and  garter. 

Well  the  sharp  back -sword  suits  you. 

New  blade  of  grooves  three. 
Thin,  keen-edged,  and  bloody, 

Light,  sharp,  lopping  free ; 
A  trim  braird  of  steel. 

Fastened  in  a  ribbed  hilt. 
In  a  gay  bearer  hangs 

At  approved  shoulder-belt. 

Pair  of  pistols  upon  you 

Abroad — your  caprice. 
Trim  and  light  culverin. 

Narrow-muzzled  fowling-piece. 


DO  CHAIPTEAN  CAIMBEUL 

Adharc  chuimeir  an  fhudair, 

Flasg  chul-bhuidh  's  beul  luthaidh,  110 

Sgiath  bhreac  nam  ball  dlutha, 

Lann  sgriubhta  'na  h-ubhall. 

Cha  mhios''  thig  dhuit  biodag, 

Cho  maith  's  a  thigeadh  o'n  cheardaich, 
Sniomhan  lionmhora,  croma  115 

Air  a  cois  dhromanaich,  chargnaich ; 
'S  i  gu  finealta,  sgeanail, 

Direach,  tana,  gle  sgeanamhail, 
Eadar  bhonn  agus  mhuineal, 

An  taoim  's  an  duille  's  a'  chrambait.  120 

Bha  thu  uasal  a"  tighinn 

Air  gach  slighe  tha  'n  taic  riut, 
"*S  cha  do  leig  thu  fhein  a  rithisd 

Bonn  de'n  t-slighe  ud  seachad ; 
Fhir  bu  shiobhalta  bruidhinn,  125 

Bu  tu  breitheamh  a'  cheartais, 
Sar  phoitear  na  dighe, 

'Gan  robh  'n  cridhe  fial,  farsaing. 

'S  gach  car  a  chaidh  dhiotsa, 

Ann  an  rioghachd  na  h-Alba,  130 

Cha  chualas  do  mhi-chliu, 

Air  do  sgriob  feadh  nan  Garbh-chrioch ; 
Aig  feobhas  do  ghiulain, 

Bha  chuis  ud  duit  ainmeil, 
Le  barantas  dubailt  135 

Fhuair  thu  cliu  na  cliath-sheanchaidh. 


io6 


TO  CAPTAIN  CAMPBELL 

Neat  horn  for  the  powder 
Yellow  flask,  measured  os. 

Spotted  targe  of  thick  studs, 
Spike  screwed  into  its  boss. 

No  worse  suits  yon  dirk, 

Good  as  comes  from  smith-craft, 
Twistings  manifold,  crooked. 

On  the  gnarred  knotty  haft ; 
It  is  well-finished,  polished. 

Straight,  thin,  no  stains  damp  it. 
Clean  pommel  and  neck. 

Weapon,  scabbard,  and  crampit. 

You  were  come  of  good  strain 

Every  way  you're  connected. 
Inch  of  that  way  again 

You  ne'er  let  be  neglected ; 
Man  most  civil  of  speech. 

You  were  judge  of  the  right. 
Princely  quaffier  of  liquor, 

Large-hearted  and  bright 

Though  you  travelled  all  ways, 

Scotland's  kingdom  around, 
Ne'er  was  heard  your  dispraise. 

As  you  crossed  the  Roughbound ; 
With  your  excellent  bearing 

Yon  cause  spread  your  name. 
You  got  with  double  warrant 

Genealogical  fame. 

107 


DO  CHARAID  TAILLEIR 


ORAN   DO   CHARAID   TAILLEIR   AIR   SON 
CUAIRT   SHUIRGHE. 

Tha  sinn  triuir  ghillean  's  a'  bhaile  so, 

Mis'*  agus  Alasdair,  's  Padruig, 

^S  muinntir  na  tire  ag  ailis 

Gu**!!  deachaidh  sinn  baileach  o  stath ; 

Na  gruagaichean  laghach  bha  mar  ruinn,  5 

An  deidh  am  mealladh  aig  each, 

Gach  oidhehe  bhios  iad  ri  faire, 

Cha  bhi  iad  gun  fhear  air  an  sgath ! 

'S  e  Domhnull  an  t-6ganach  giobaeh, 

'S  ann  aige  bha  mhisneach  a  b'fhearr,  10 

'S  e  ehuireadh  an  car  dheth  gu  sgiobalt' 

'S  a  rachadh  a  chlisgeadh  'nan  dail : 

'S  ann  a  dh'iomaireadh  e  teadhair  is  cipean 

Nach  burrainn  e  bhristeadh  gu  brath 

'S  gu'n  cumar  e  mar  ris  na  boeaibh  16 

O'n  a  bhios  e  ri  sodradh  gun  tamh ! 

Tha  fleasgach  aig  Para  Mac  Bheathain 
'S  e  ""s  braise  as  aitheant'  domh  'm  eolas, 
Tha  e  cho  deidheil  air  mnathan 
'S  nach  fheud  e  laighe  'na  onrachd ;  20 

Shiubhladh  e  'n  oidhehe  gu  latha 
Do  dh'  ait  anns  am  faigheadh  e  pogan, 
'S  dheanadh  e  cluiche  gu  breugach 
Guide  ri  nighneagan  oga. 
io8 


TO  A  TAILOR  FRIEND 


SONG   TO    A   FRIEND,  A   TAILOR,   FOR   A 
COURTING   TRIP. 

Three  lads  of  us  live  in  this  township, 

There's  Alastair,  Patrick,  and  me, 
And  the  folk  of  the  country  are  saying 

That  quite  gone  to  nothing  are  we ; 
The  fair  damosels  that  were  with  us 

Were  by  the  rest  jilted  each  one, 
And  every  night  they  will  be  watching, 

To  squire  them  they'll  not  want  a  man. 

'Tis  Donald,  the  youth  that  was  ragged. 

Was  of  the  best  courage  possessed, 
'Tis  he  would  bestir  himself  nimbly. 

And  forthwith  to  meet  them  would  haste : 
But  he  would  require  peg  and  tether 

That  he  never,  never  could  break. 
And  that  he  be  kept  with  the  he-goats. 

For  incessantly  he's  on  the  rake. 

And  Para  Mac  Vane  has  a  youngster. 

The  briskest  I  know  in  my  ken, 
He's  so  very  fond  of  the  ladies 

That  he  can't  rest  a  moment  his  lane ; 
He  will  walk  all  the  night  until  daybreak 

To  a  place  where  he  kisses  would  find. 
And  games  he  would  play  of  flirtation 

Along  with  the  young  womenkind. 
109 


DO  CHARAID  TAILLEIR 

Gu  briodalach,  beulanach,  cuirteil,  25 

Ri  sugradh  gu  siobhalta,  baidheil, 

Am  mistear  ag  euladh  'sna  cuiltean, 

'S  e  rudhrach  gu  h-iosal  fo  mhagan ; 

Le  chriotachadh  tearuinte,  runach, 

'S  e  dluthachadh  rithe  gu  dana  ;  30 

'S  ma  chaidh  e  'san  am  air  a  ghluinibh 

Cha  b'ann  ris  na  h-urnuighean  a  bha  e. 

Ruigidh  e  bothan  'na  fhaire, 

'S  e  an  t-ait  am  bu  mhaith  leis  bhi  tamh, 

Laighidh  e  teann  air  a'  bhanaraich,  35 

'S  i  sud  leannan  a  ghraidh ; 

Dheanadh  i  chriotachadh  tairis, 

Is  chuireadh  i  thairis  a  lamh, 

'S  'n  uair  a  theannas  e  rithe  le  farum 

Gu'n  cumadh  iad  caithris  air  each  !  40 

'S  e  ludragan  paiteach  na  bleide, 

An  ceigean  maol,  odhar,  gun  agh, 

A  thainig  a  shuirghe  cho  beadaidh 

Do  dh'ait  an  robh  fleasgaich  a  b'fhearr ; 

'S  ann  a  thoill  e  chur  air  an  t-seisean  45 

Mu'n  chleasachd  o'n  chaidh  i  os  n-aird, 

'S  am  brangas  a  theannadh  mu  pheircHbh, 

'S  gun  odhar  na  h-eaglais  thoirt  da. 


no 


TO  A  TAILOR  FRIEND 

In  wooer's  words,  fair  spoken,  courtly, 

His  quiet  fond  mirth  he  outpours. 
The  cunning  one,  creeping  in  corners, 

And  groping  about  on  all  fours ; 
By  his  tentative  secret  caressing 

He  approaches  her  with  his  bold  airs ; 
And  if  he  went  down  on  his  knees  then, 

'Twas  certainly  not  at  his  prayers. 

He  reaches  the  bothy  so  wary, 

'Tis  the  place  where  he'd  wish  to  take  rest. 
Makes  up  to  the  maid  of  the  dairy, 

For  yon  is  the  lass  he  lo'es  best ; 
Her  hand  she  would  stretch  out  towards  him, 

And  over  him  fondling  would  make. 
And  when  he  draws  noisily  near  her. 

They'd  keep  all  the  others  awake. 

He's  the  sloven  hunchback  of  cajoling. 

The  brown  luckless  dwarf  with  no  hair. 
Who  came  to  woo  with  so  much  courage 

Where  much  better  bachelors  were ; 
He  ought  to  be  put  'fore  the  Session 

For  the  ploy,  since  it  has  come  to  light, 
And  the  branks  round  his  jaws  to  have  pressing. 

While  he's  with  the  brown  church  gown  bedight. 


Ill 


DO'N  TAILLEAR  AN  EIRIG 


ORAN  DO'N  TAILLEAR  AN  EIRIG  GRAIN  A 
RINN  ESAN  AN  AOBHAR  A  CHARAID. 

A  Dh6mhnuill  Bhain  Mhic  O  Neachdain 

Tha  'n  droch  nadur  ad  phearsa, 

Cha  ghnathaich  thu  'n  ceartas, 

Gus  am  basaich  thu  'n  pheacadh, 

'S  mairg  ait  anns  na  thachair,  5 

Am  ball-sampuill  gun  chneastachd, 

A  rinn  graineil  an  sgaiteachd  ud  oirnn : 

A  rinn  graineil  an  sgaiteachd,  &c. 

Fhir  a  thoisich  ri  ealaidh, 
Bha  thu  gorach  ad  bharail,  10 

'Ga  seoladh  am  charaibh, 
'S  gun  mi  t'  fheoraich,  no  V  fharraid, 
Chuir  thu  sgleo  dhiot  is  fanaid, 
Co  dhiubh  's  deoin  leat  no  's  aindeoin, 
Tha  mi  'n  dochas  gu'm  faigh  thu  do  leoir.  15 

Uhomhsa  b'aithne  do  bheusan  ; 
Tha  thu  aineolach,  beumnach, 
Is  do  theangadh  mar  reusar, 
Le  tainead  's  le  geiread, 

Thug  thu  deannal  domh  fhein  dith,  20 

O  's  ann  agad  tha  'n  eucoir, 
Com  nach  paighinn  thu  'n  eirig  do  sgeoil  ? 

112 


TO  THE  TAILOR  IN  REPLY 


SONG  TO  THE  TAILOR  IN  REPLY  TO  A   SONG 
WHICH  HE  MADE  FOR  A  FRIEND  OF  HIS. 

Fair  Donald  MacNaughton, 
In  your  person  dwells  Satan, 
Righteousness  you'll  not  cherish, 
Unto  sin  till  you  perish. 
Curse  the  place  where  all  fell  out, 
The  example  unhallowed. 
Which  yon  slashing  at  us  made  overt. 


You,  who  a  song  did  commence. 
In  your  judgment  lacked  sense. 
It  my  way  directing. 
Me  not  asking,  expecting, 
Boast  and  jibe  did  you  utter — 
Willy  nilly,  no  matter, 
Tm  in  hope  that  you'll  get  your  desert. 

Your  ways  I  well  knew,  sir. 
You're  an  ignorant  bruiser. 
And  your  tongue's  like  a  razor 
With  its  keen  and  sharp  phrase,  sir 
Me  you've  given  a  whang  o'  it 
Since  you've  done  the  wrang  o'  it. 
Pay  you  out  for  your  tale  should  I  not  ? 

113  H 


DO'N  TAILLEAR  AN  EIRIG 

'S  tu  chraobh  ghrodlaich  air  crionadh, 
Lan  mosgain,  is  fhionag, 

A  dh'fhas  croganach,  iosal,  25 

Goirid,  crotach,  neo-dhireach, 
Stoc  thu  togairt  do'n  ghriosaich, 
A  thoill  do  losgadh  mar  iobairt, 
Leig  thu  'n  Soisgeul  air  di-chuimhn''  gu  mor. 

Bu  bheag  an  diubhail  e  thachairt  30 

An  la  thur  thu  na  facail, 
Da  phund  agus  cairteal 
De  dh'fhudar  cruaidh,  sgairteil, 
A  bhi  ad  bhroinn  air  a  chalcadh, 
'S  bhi  'gad  sgaineadh  le  maitse,  35 

Gus  am  fasadh  tu  't  ablach  gun  deo. 

""S  blionach  righinn  gun  fheum  thu. 
Ge  do  bhitheadh  tu  'm  feithe, 
Coin  is  fithich  ad  theumadh, 
Cha  bhiodh  an  diol  beidh  ac\  40 

'S  trie  thu  teann  air  na  h-eibhlean, 
Bhreac  do  shuimeir  gu  V  eislich, 
Blath  an  tein'  air  do  shleisean  gu  mor. 

O  nach  taillear  as  fhiu  thu, 

Chuir  each  as  a'  chuirt  thu  ;  45 

Bidh  tu  ghnath  anns  na  euiltean, 

Ag  earadh  nan  luireaeh  ; 

Bu  tu  asuinn  nan  cludan, 

'S  trie  a  shuidh  thu  'san  smuraich 

'N  uair  a  bhithinns"*  air  eul  fir  nan  croc.  50 

114 


TO  THE  TAILOR  IN  REPLY 

Branch  of  tree  rotten,  blightful. 
Of  dry  rot  and  mites  full, 
Which  has  grown  low  and  scraggy, 
Short,  crooked,  and  knaggy, 
You,  stump  emberwards  turning. 
Sacrifice  meet  for  burning. 
Much  the  Gospel  have  let  be  forgot. 

Had  it  chanced,  small  the  pity, 
That  day  you  made  the  ditty. 
Two  pounds  and  a  quarter 
Of  hard  explosive  matter 
In  your  inside  were  thrust 
And  with  match  you  were  burst, 
Until  dead  carrion  you  became. 

Useless  lean  flesh  and  tough. 
Though  you  lay  in  moss-trough, 
Dogs  and  crows  at  you  riving. 
Were  no  full  meal  deriving. 
Oft  you're  close  to  the  embers. 
Mottled,  shanks  to  back  members. 
Stamped  red  on  your  thighs  is  the  flame. 

You,  no  tailor  of  worth,  man, 
Out  of  court  all  cast  forth,  man. 
You'll  be  aye  in  the  corner. 
The  patched  clothes'  adorner ; 
You're  the  clouting  machine. 
Oft  the  dross  you've  sat  in 
Whilst  the  antlered  one  I  was  pursuing. 

115 


DO'N  TAILLEAK  AN  EIRIG 

'S  e  do  choltas  r''a  innseadh, 
Fear  sop-cheannach,  grimeach, 
Gun  bhonaid,  gun  phiorbhuic, 
Gun  bhad-mullaich,  gun  chirean, 
Lorn  uir  air  a  spionadh,  55 

Carr  gu  t'uilinn  a  sios  ort, 
Strac  na  dunach  de'n  sgriobaich  mu  d'  cheos. 

'S  iomadh  ait  anns  na  thachair, 
An  taillear  MacNeachdain, 
Eadar  Albainn  is  Sasunn,  60 

Bailtean  raargaidh  is  machair ; 
'S  trie  a  shealg  thu  air  praisich, 
O  nach  d'  fhalbh  thu  le  clapa, 
Chaoidh  cha  mharbh  e  duin'  aca  de'n  t-sl6gh. 

'S  duine  dona  gun  mhios  thu,  65 

Dh'fhas  gun  onair  gun  ghhocas, 
Fear  gun  chomas  gun  bhriosgadh, 
Chain  do  spionnadh  's  do  mhisneach, 
Leis  na  rinn  thu  de'n  bhidseachd, 
Bu  tu  'n  slaighteara  misgeach,  70 

'S  cian  o'n  thoill  thu  do  chuipeadh  mu'n  61. 

'S  iomadh  ceapaire  romais, 
Rinn  thu  ghlacadh  ad  chrogan, 
Is  bhi  'ga  stailceadh  le  t'  ordaig, 
Ann  do  chab-dheudach  sgornach,  75 

'S  reamhar,  farsaing  do  sgornan, 
Bru  mar  chuilean  an  otraich, 
Fhuair  thu  urram  nan  geoeach  ri  d'  bheo. 
ii6 


TO  THE  TAILOR  IN  REPLY 

Such,  your  likeness  to  tell,  a 
Grim  wispheaded  fellow, 
Without  periwig,  bonnet, 
Crowntuft,  or  crest  on  it. 
But  the  whole  was  plucked  bare, 
Scurfed  to  elbow  you  were, 
The  scab  round  your  thigh,  a  waste  of  ruin. 

In  many  a  place  met  one 
The  tailor  MacNaughton, 
Both  in  Scotland  and  England, 
In  fair  towns  and  lowland  ; 
Oft  for  hussies  you  hunted. 
Since  you  went  thence  undaunted 
Disease  kills  not  one  of  the  people. 

A  bad  man,  iU-reputed, 
Wisdom,  praise,  you'^re  without  it, 
And  without  power  or  mirth, 
YouVe  lost  courage  and  pith, 
In  aU  beastliness  sunken, 
You,  a  sad  rogue  and  drunken. 
Should  have  long  since  been  whipped  for  your  tipple. 

Many  a  foul  sandwich 
You  clutched  in  your  hand,  which, 
You,  with  your  thumb,  stapped 
In  your  back  teeth  all  gapped ; 
Fat,  extended  your  throat  gulps, 
Belly  like  midden  dog  whelp's. 

You  the  gluttons'  gree  win  while  you  live, 

117 


^.uof'DO'N  TAILLEAR  AN  EIRIG 

Bidh  na  mnathan  ag  raite 
'N  uair  a  rachadh  tu'n  airigh  80 

Gu'n  tolladh  tu  "'n  t-aras 
Anns  am  bitheadh  an  caise ; 
'N  uair  a  dh'itheadh  tu  pairt  deth, 
'S  a  bhiodh  tu  air  trasgadh, 
Anns  a**  mhuidhe  gu'n  sparr  thu  do  chrog.  85 

'S  tu  ''n  toUaran  cnaimhteach, 
Ge  bu  ghionach  do  mhaileid, 
Tha  do  mhionach  air  t'  fhagail, 
Gun  chrioman  deth  lathair ; 
CochuU  glogach  mu  t'aruinn,  90 

Tha  do  sgamhan  is  V  ainean 
Lan  galair,  is  faslaich,  is  chos. 

Beul  do  chleibh  air  a  thachdadh, 
Air  seideadh  's  air  brachadh, 
'S  e  gu  h-eididh  air  malcadh,  95 

'S  mor  V  fheum  air  a  chartadh 
Gach  aon  eucail  ad  phearsa, 
Caitheamh,  eitich,  is  casdaich, 
Gus  an  d'  eirich  do  chraiceann  o  V  fheoil. 

Tha  do  chreuchdan,  's  do  chuislean,  100 

Lan  eucail  is  trusdair, 

'S  thu  feumach  air  furtachd, 

Tha  'n  deideadh  ad  phluicean, 

'S  thu  ''t  eiginn  le  clupaid, 

T'  anail  bhreun,  gu  trom,  murtaidh,  105 

"'S  mairg  a  dh'fheuchadh  dhiot  mochthrath  do  thochd. 
ii8 


TO  THE  TAILOR  IN  REPLY 

The  wives  are  revealing 
That  when  you'd  reach  a  sheiling, 
Through  the  dwelling  you'd  bore, 
To  where  cheese  was  in  store ; 
When  a  part  you  would  eat, 
And  were  parched  with  the  heat, 
To  the  churn  would  you  thrust  in  your  neive. 

You're  the  glutton  voracious, 
Though  your  bag  was  capacious, 
Your  bowels  have  left  you. 
Every  fragment  bereft  you ; 
Round  your  kidney  cyst  cover, 
And  your  lungs  and  your  liver 
Of  disease,  hollows,  sponge  are  one  mesh  ! 

Your  windpipe  is  stuffed  up. 
Fermenting  and  puffed  up. 
To  a  web  its  ills  suck  it. 
You've  great  need  to  muck  it. 
In  your  frame  all  diseases — 
Cough,  hectic,  and  phthisis, 
TiU  your  skin  s  risen  up  from  your  flesh. 

Your  wounds  and  your  pulse  are 

Diseased,  full  of  ulcer. 

You  have  great  need  of  comfort. 

Toothache  cries  in  your  gum  for't. 

You're  distressed  with  swollen  throat, 

You're  breath's  rank,  heavy,  hot — 

Pity  him  felt  it  off  you  at  morn. 

119 


DO'N  TAILLEAR  AN  EIRIG 

Do  dheud  sgrob-bhearnach,  cabach, 
'Sam  beil  na  sgor-fhiaclan  glasa, 
Mosgain,  cosacha,  sgealpach, 
Luibte,  grannda,  cam,  feachdta,  HO 

A  null 's  a  nail  air  an  tarsuinn, 
Cuid  diubh  caillf  air  dol  asad, 
'S  na  bheil  ann  diubh  air  sgapadh  do  bheoil. 

Bidh  na  ronnan  gu  silteach, 
'Nan  tonnaibh  gorm,  ruithteach,  115 

Ag  gabhail  toinneamh  o  d'  liopan, 
Thar  cromadh  do  smige ; 
'S  dorcha,  doilleir,  do  chlisneach, 
Cho  dubh  ris  a'  phice, 
Uchd  na  curra,  ceann  circ'  ort,  's  gob  geoidh.      120 

Do  mhaol  chnuacach  air  faileadh, 
Gun  chluasan,  gun  fhaillean  ; 
Tha  thu  uainealach,  tana, 
Cho  cruaidh  ris  an  darach ; 
'S  tu  gun  suaineach,  gun  anart,  125 

'S  aobhar  truais  thu  ri  d'  ghearan, 
'S  gur  fuair'  thu  na  gaillionn  an  reot'. 

Tha  ceann  binneach  'na  stuic  ort, 
Geocach,  leith-cheannach,  giugach, 
Aodann  brucanach,  grugach,  130 

Sron  phlucach  na  muire, 
Tha  croit  air  do  chulaibh, 
'S  moran  lurcaich  ad  ghluinibh. 
Da  chois  chama,  chaol,  chrubach,  gun  treoir. 


TO  THE  TAILOR  IN  REPLY 

Your  teeth  scratch-notched,  dented, 
Buckteeth  'mong  them  glinted. 
Musty,  creviced,  and  riven. 
Ugly,  looped,  crooked,  uneven. 
Transverse-wise,  hither  thither. 
Some  lost,  gone  altogether. 
And  your  mouth  is  with  what  there  are  torn. 

The  slavers  are  trickling 
In  blue  waves  and  rippling, 
From  your  lips  taking  a  spin 
O'er  the  bend  of  your  chin  ; 
Dark  and  sombre  your  carcase. 
As  pitch  tar  black  mirk  is, 
YouVe  a  hen's  head,  hern's  chest,  goose's  bill. 

Bunkered  pate,  sloughed  and  smelling. 
With  no  ears,  or  ear-swelling. 
You  are  greenish  and  limber. 
As  hard  as  oak  timber, 
You,  without  plaid  or  linen, 
A  piteous  thing  with  your  plaining, 
Than  a  storm  in  the  frost  are  more  chill. 

Head  to  pinnacle  peaked,  you 
Wry-necked  hanghead,  high-cheeked  you, 
Face  wrinkled  and  smutted. 
Nose  with  leprosy  knotted. 
On  your  back  is  a  hump. 
In  your  knees  much  lame  cramp. 
Feet  crooked,  narrow,  crippled,  unstrung. 


GILLEASBUIG  ACHALADAIR 

Cha  n'eil  uiread  nan  sailtean  135 

Aig  a'  phliutaire  spagach, 
Nach  'eil  cuspach  is  gagach, 
Tha  thu'd  chrioplach  's  ad  chraigeach, 
'S  lionmhor  tubaist  an  taillear, 
Dh'  fhag  an  saoghal  "*na  thraill  e,  140 

'S  mairg  a  shaoithrich  air  V  arach  's  tu  6g. 

Ma's  ann  de  shliochd  Adhamh  thu, 
Cha  choslach  ri  each  thu, 
Aig  olcas  's  a  dh**  fhas  thu, 
O  thoiseach  do  laithean  ;  145 

Cha  tig  cobhair  gu  brath  ort, 
Gus  am  foghainn  am  bas  duit, 
'S  do  chorp  odhar  a  charadh  fo  'n  fhod. 


CUMHA   GHILLEASBUIG  ACHALADAIR. 

GuK  muladach  tha  sinn 

Mu  Mhaidsear  Achaladair, 

E  bhi  dhith  air  an  aireamh, 

'N  uair  thainig  each  thairis  oimn ; 

Chaidh  gaeh  duine  g'an  aite,  5 

'S  an  leth-paigh  'ga  tharruing  ac', 

'S  ann  tha  esan  air  fhagail 

Anns  an  araieh  gun  eharaehadh. 

Bu  cheann-feadhna  deas  calm'  thu, 

"N  am  dhuit  falbh  as  an  fhearann  so,  10 

Air  thoiseach  na  h-armailt'. 

Far  na  dhearbh  thu  do  cheannardachd ; 

122 


ARCHIBALD  OF  ACHALLADER 

He  has  not  even  heel, 
The  club  splay  footed  chiel, 
But  breeds  kibes,  hacks  with  raw  root, 
You  cripple  and  pawfoot, 
A  huge  mischance  the  tailor, 
Life  has  left  him  a  thrall  there, 
Twas  a  fool  toiled  and  reared  you  when  young. 

To  Adam''s  seed  if  you're  brother, 
You're  unlike  any  other. 
So  bad  have  you  grown 
Since  your  natal  day's  dawn. 
Help  will  never  come  to  you 
Till  death  will  undo  you, 
And  your  brown  body's  'neath  the  sod  flung. 


LAMENT  FOR  ARCHIBALD  OF  ACHALLADER. 

Our  sorrow  is  daunting 

About  Major  Achallader, 
From  their  number  he's  wanting. 

When  home  the  rest  gathered  are ; 
Each  man  to  his  place  gone, 

Their  half-pay  receiving  it. 
While  he's  uninterred  on 

The  field  and  ne'er  leaving  it. 

You,  a  brave  chief  and  splendid. 

When  you  went  from  this  land  away, 

At  the  head  of  the  men,  did 

Your  right  to  command  display ; 
123 


GILLEASBUIG  ACHALADAIR 

Chaidh  tu  null  air  muir  dhubh-ghuirm, 

'S  bhi  'ga  stiuradh  le  maraichean, 

Dol  mu  choinneamh  nam  Frangach,  15 

Is  iad  'nan  camp  air  gach  gearasdan. 

Bha  thu  cruadalach,  dana, 

Anns  gach  cas  a  bhiodh  barraichte ; 

A'  dol  air  t"  adhairt  'sna  blaraibh, 

Bu  neo-sgathach  'gan  tarruing  thu  ;  20 

Thug  sin  thu  gu  aite, 

'S  theireadh  each  gur  tu  b'  airidh  air, 

Bha  do  mhisneach  is  f  eolas 

Mar  a  dh'  f  hoghnadh  do  sheanalair. 

Bha  V  aigneadh  mar  leomhann  25 

An  am  mdrchuis  le  fearachas ; 

Brais"*  is  ardan  le  cheile 

An  am  feuma  no  cabhaige ; 

Lamh  chruaidh  air  chul  sgeithe, 

Cho  treubhach  's  a  b**  aithne  dhomh ;  30 

'S  an  am  bhualadh  nan  speicean, 

Cha  robh  deisinn  an  ceangal  riut. 

B'  e  do  mhiann  na  h-airm  ghaisge, 
Bhi  gu  h-acfhuineach,  farumach ; 
Cuilbheir  caol,  snaidhte,  35 

Nach  do  dhiult  a  snap  aingeal  duit ; 
Lann  thana,  gheur,  stailinn, 
Chruaidh,  laidir  gu  gearradh, 
'N  deidh  spionnadh  do  laimhe, 
Bhiodh  do  namhaid-sa  gearanach.  40 

124 


ARCHIBALD  OF  ACHALLADER 

The  blue  sea  you  crossed, 

With  marines  navigating  you, 
Going  to  meet  the  French  host. 

Camped  in  every  fort  waiting  you. 

You  were  bold  and  stout  hearted 

In  all  crises  that  pressed  them  there ; 
To  the  lines  going  outward, 

You  fearlessly  dressed  them  there  ; 
That  brought  you  a  place 

Which  all  said  you  deserved  so  well, 
Your  skill  and  address 

For  a  general  had  served  you  well. 

Lionlike  was  your  nature 

In  grandeur  with  manliness ; 
Dash  and  hauteur  together, 

When  need  was,  or  storm  and  stress ; 
Hard  hand  behind  shield. 

Fell  as  ever  I  knew  with  you ; 
Time  for  weapons  to  wield 

Well,  no  scruples  had  you  with  you. 

Hero's  arms  your  delight, 

Harnessed  clanking  attire  on  you ; 
Gun  shapely  and  slight. 

Trigger  ne'er  missing  fire  on  you ; 
A  thin  sharp  steel  brand. 

Tempered  hard,  strong  to  cleave  with  it. 
After  your  might  of  hand 

Would  your  enemies  grieve  with  it. 
125 


GILLEASBUIG  ACHALADAIR 

Ann  an  latha  blar  Champaidh, 

'N  uair  bhuail  an  tacaid  an  Seanalair, 

Chaidh  a  lot  anns  an  araich, 

'S  dh'fhag  each  ag  call  fola  e, 

Thug  thu  mach  e  air  ghiulan,  45 

Sin  an  turn  nach  robh  aithreach  dhuit, 

'N  am  suidhe  na  cuirte, 

'S  gach  aon  chuis  b'  e  do  charaid  e. 

'S  e  la  Phealan-housein 

A  rinn  an  diubhail  gu  h-ath-ghoirid,  50 

'N  uair  a  thuit  an  comanndair 

A  h"  aird'  air  na  fearaibh  ud, 

Air  a"*  phiocaid  a  bha  thu, 

Os  cionn  chaich  fhuair  thu  barantas. 

Ann  an  onair  na  rioghachd,  55 

'S  an  righ  fhad  's  bu  mhaireann  thu. 

Ged  a  theireadh  luchd-faoineachd, 

An  taobh  so  gu  h-aineolach, 

Gu'n  do  thearuinn  sliochd  Dhiarmaid 

Gun  reubadh,  gun  ghearradh  ann  ;  60 

Na'n  sealladh  iad  di reach, 

'S  gu'm  b'  i  'n  fhirinn  a  chanadh  iad, 

'S  mdr  ar  call  le  Righ  Deorsa, 

O'n  a  thoisich  a'  charraid  so. 

Chaidh  Gilleasbuig  a  bhualadh,  65 

Thain'  an  luaidhe  'na  deannaibh  air. 
Far  nach  fhaiceadh  e  naimhdean, 
'S  craobhan  arda  'gam  folach  air ; 
126 


ARCHIBALD  OF  ACHALLADER 

On  the  day  of  Blar  Champaidh, 

When  the  ball  had  the  General  strook, 
Him  afield  fallen  wounded 

And  bleeding  they  all  forsook. 
Him  by  carrying  you  forth  gat, 

Regret  it  did  ever  you  ? 
At  the  time  when  the  court  sat, 

Your  friend  he  was  ever  true. 

The  day  of  Fellinghausen 

Wrought  havoc  in  briefest  space, 
When  the  officer  fell 

Who  o'er  yon  men  held  chiefest  place ; 
You,  who  were  on  the  picket, 

Received  a  commission 
In  King  and  realm's  honour. 

While  of  life  youVe  possession. 

Though  at  home  tattlers  may 

With  their  ignorant  jangling  swear 
Diarmid's  seed  got  away 

With  no  wounding  or  mangling  there ; 
Were  it  straight  they  were  staring 

And  the  truth  they  had  spoken  out, 
George's  great  loss  we're  sharing 

Since  this  strife  has  broken  out. 

Archibald  was  struck  low, 

In  a  shower  came  the  lead  on  him, 

Where  he  could  see  no  foe. 

Branches  hid  them  o'erhead  of  him  ; 
127 


GILLEASBUIG  ACHALADAIR 

Thuit  misneach  na  pairtidh 

A  bha  'n  la  sin  an  caraibh  dhuit,  70 

Bha  'n  taic  air  am  fagail 

'N  uair  a  bha  thu  gun  anail  ac\ 

'N  uair  a  thainig  a"*  ghasaid, 

Thug  fios  do  bhais  thairis  duinn, 

Bu  mhuladach,  craiteach  75 

Do  bhrathair,  's  do  pheathraichean ; 

Do  chleamhnan  gu  h-araid, 

'S  do  chairdean  a  bharrachd  orr' ; 

'S  bu  mhor  an  cion-fath  air, 

'S  na  bha  air  an  aire-san.  80 

Bha  thu  maith  an  am  siochaint, 

Gu  siobhalta,  farasda, 

Cho  uasal  at  inntinn 

^S  gu'm  bu  ghrinn  gach  ni  chanadh  tu ; 

Mar  bu  dual  duit  o  d"*  shinnsreachd  85 

Thaobh  gach  linn  a  chaidh  tharad  diubh 

Cruaidh  a  sheasamh  na  larach, 

'S  bhi  blath  an  am  carthannais. 

Bu  tu  maighstir  na  tuatha, 

'S  an  deagh  uachdaran  fearainn,  90 

An  am  paigheadh  dhuit  cisean 
Cha  bhiodh  dith  air  do  theanandan  ; 
'S  tu  nach  sealladh  gu  miodhoir 
Air  an  ni  thoirt  a  dh'aindeoin  uap', 
'S  e  bu  mhiannach  le  V  inntinn  95 

lad  a  chinntinn  mar  raineach  dhuit. 
128 


ARCHIBALD  OF  ACHALLADER 

Party's  courage  was  reft  them, 

Who  were  with  you  in  strife  this  day, 

Their  confidence  left  them 

When  you  with  them  lifeless  lay. 

When  the  news  was  received, 

Word  of  your  death  brought  o"'er  to  us, 
Brother,  sisters  were  grieved 

And  anguished  full  sore  with  us ; 
Sons-in-law  specially. 

And  your  friends  too  as  well  as  they ; 
And  great  cause  had  they — 

All  their  thoughts  that  befell  that  day. 

In  peace  you  were  kind. 

With  politeness  and  easiness. 
So  noble  in  mind. 

All  you  said  it  was  pleasing  us ; 
From  your  sires  'twas  your  way. 

In  each  line  that  preceded  you. 
Stern  the  battle  to  stay. 

Warm  when  friendship's  hour  needed  you. 

The  tenantry's  master, 

And  excellent  laird  were  you. 
When  the  dues  to  you  passed  o'er. 

Your  tenants  were  spared  by  you ; 
You'd  not  closely  enquire 

That  their  stock  should  be  fleeced  by  you. 
It  was  your  heart's  desire 

They  like  bracken  increased  with  you. 
129  I 


CAILEAN  GHLEANN  lUBHAIR 

Bu  tu  cridhe  na  feile, 

Ceann  na  ceilP  is  a'  cheanaltais, 

Bu  mhaith  labhairt  is  leirsinn, 

'N  am  dhuit  fein  bhi  measg  aithnichean ;         100 

Sar  phoitear  an  fhiona, 

Lamh  dhioladh  nan  galan  thu  ; 

Marcach  sunntach  eich  cheumnaich, 

Bhuidhneadh  reis  ann  an  cabhaig  thu. 

'S  an  deireadh  an  t-samhraidh  105 

Thug  do  naimhdean  an  aire  dhuit, 

'N  uair  a  fhuair  iad  o'n  champ  thu 

Air  comannd  a'  mhor  challa  dhuinn  ; 

'S  aobhar  mulaid  is  campair 

Do  gach  aon  duine  dhearadh  ort,  110 

Bhi  cluinntinn  do  bheusan, 

'S  gun  thu  fein  a  bhi  maireann  ac\ 


CUMHA  CHAILEIN   GHLEANN   lUBHAIR. 

Smaointean  truagh  a  th'air  m'aigne, 

Dh'  fhag  orm  smuairean,  is  airsneul, 

An  am  gluasad  am  leabaidh, 

Cha  chadal  ach  duisg ; 

Tha  mo  ghruaidhean  air  seacadh, 

Gun  dion  uair  air  mo  rosgaibh, 

Mu'n  sgeul  a  chualas  o'n  Apuinn, 

A  ghluais  a'  chaismeachd  ud  duinn. 
130 


LAMENT  FOR  COLIN  OF  GLENURE 

Bounty's  heart  you  to  each, 

Crown  of  sense  and  of  kindly  grace, 
Good  in  insight  and  speech, 

When  'mong  guests  you  had  friendly  place ; 
Fell  quafFer  of  wine. 

Hand  for  gallons  to  pay  with  you ; 
Pacing  steed's  rider  fine, 

Prize  you  soon  bore  away  with  you. 

At  the  end  of  the  summer 

Foes  took  you  in  hand,  and  they 
Got  you  out  of  the  camp 

On  that  fatal  command  away ; 
Cause  of  dool  and  grief  drear 

To  all  those  who  set  store  on  you, 
Of  your  virtures  to  hear, 

Ah  !  and  ne'er  with  them  more  are  you. 


LAMENT  FOR  COLIN  OF  GLENURE. 

Wretched  thoughts  in  my  mind 
Me  with  grief  and  woe  blind, 
On  my  pallet  reclined 

I  sleep  not  but  wake ; 
My  cheeks  pale  and  dry, 
Never  shut  is  mine  eye, 
Appin  sent  forth  the  cry 

That  made  us  all  quake. 
131 


CAILEAN  GHLEANN  lUBHAIR 

Fear  Ghleann-iubhair  a  dhith  oirnn 

Le  puthar  luchd  mi-ruin,  10 

Mo  sgeul  dubhach  r'a  innseadh 

Thu  bhi  ""d  shineadh  ''san  uir ; 
■"S  truagh  gach  duine  de  d'  dhilsean 
Cn  a  chaidh  do  chorp  priseil 
An  ciste  chumhainn,  chaoil,  dionaich,  16 

""S  ann  an  lion-anart  ur ! 

B'  e  sin  an  corp  alainn, 

'N  uair  bha  thu  roimhe  so  'd  shlainte, 

Gun  chion  cumachd  no  fas  ort, 

Gu  foinneamh,  daicheil,  deas,  ur ;  20 

Suairce,  foisinneach,  failteach, 
Uasal,  iriosal,  baidheil, 
Caoimhneil,  cinneadail,  cairdeil, 

Gun  chron  r'a  rait'  air  a"*  chul ; 
Lan  de  ghliocas,  's  de  leirsinn,  26 

Gu  dsftia,  misneachail,  treubhach, 
Gach  ait  an  sirte  gu  feum  thu, 

'S  ann  leat  a  dh'eireadh  gach  cuis : 
B'  e  do  choimeas  an  dreagan, 

No  'n  t-seabhag  ""sna  speuraibh,  30 

Co  bu  choslach  r'a  cheile 

Ach  iad  fein  agus  thu  ? 

■"S  cruaidh  an  teachdair  a  thainig ! 
■*S  truagh  mar  thachair  an  drasda, 
Nach  do  sheachain  thu  'n  t-aite,  36 

'N  do  ghlac  am  bas  thu  air  thus ; 
Suas  o  chachaile  gharaidh, 
Fhuair  thu  'n  t-acaid  a  chraidh  mi, 
'S  gun  do  thaic  a  bhi  laimh  riut, 

'N  uair  ghabh  iad  fath  ort  o  d'  chul.  40 

132 


LAMENT  FOR  COLIN  OF  GLENURE 

Glenure's  done  to  death 
By  malicious  folk's  scaith, 
Sad  my  tale  is  that  saith 

You  are  stretched  in  the  ground ; 
Your  friends  all  make  moan 
Since  your  loved  form  is  gone 
To  the  close  chest  and  lone, 

And  in  new  linen  gowned. 

Ah  !  that  body  was  fair 

When  in  prime  health  you  were. 

Shape  and  size  your  full  share, 

Handsome,  seemly,  trim,  fresh ; 
Pleasant,  restful  benignly. 
Noble,  humble,  and  kindly. 
Kind,  fond  of  kin,  friendly. 

With  no  fault  for  ill  clash ; 
Full  of  wisdom,  shrewdness. 
Bold,  brave,  manly,  each  place 
You  were  sought  for  in  stress. 

There  things  prospered  with  you  ; 
Like  the  dragon  that  flies, 
Or  the  hawk  in  the  skies. 
With  these  two  who  vies 

In  resemblance  but  you  ? 

Messenger  come  to  stun  ! 
Now  sad  how  'twas  done. 
You  the  place  not  to  shun 

Where  death  you  first  strook ; 
From  the  yard  gate  to  thee 
Flew  the  ball  that  wrecked  me  ! 
Nor  help  near  you  to  be. 

When  a  rear  chance  they  took. 
133 


CAILEAN  GHLEANN  lUBHAIR 

Air  do  thaobh  's  thu  gun  chomhradh, 

'San  am  'n  do  chaochail  an  deo  uait, 

T'  fhuil  chraobhach,  dhearg,  bhoidheach 

Ag  gabhail  dortadh  'na  bruchd, 
Le  gniomh  an  amadain  ghoraich,  45 

A  bha  gun  aithne,  gun  eolas, 
A  chreic  anam  air  storas, 

Nach  do  chuir  an  trocair  a  dhuil. 

B'  e  'n  cridhe  gun  tioma,  gun  deisinn, 

Gun  agh,  gun  chinneas,  gun  cheutamh,  50 

A  chuir  lamh  ad  mhilleadh  gun  reusan, 

Le  cion  ceilP  agus  tuir ; 
'S  e  glac  mar  chomhairP  an  eucoir, 
'S  bochd  an  gnothach  mar  dh'eirich, 
Dh'fhag  e  sinne  fo  euslaint,  55 

Is  e  fein  'na  fhear-cuirn  ; 
'S  ge  nach  samhach  a  leaba, 
Le  eagal  a  ghlacadh, 
Cha  n-e  tha  mi  'g  acain, 

Ach  mar  a  thachair  do'n  chuis :  60 

An  t-armunn  deas,  tlachdmhor, 
A  tha  'n  drasd'  an  Ard-chatain, 
An  deidh  a  charadh  an  tasgaidh, 

An  aite  cadail  nach  duisg. 

'S  e  do  chadal  gu  siorruidh,  65 

A  dh'  fhag  m'  aigne  cho  tiamhaidh, 
'S  trie  smaointeana  diomhain 

A'  tighinn  gu  dian  orm  as  ur ; 
'S  trom  a  dh'fhas  orm  an  iargainn, 
Is  goirte  V  ar-sa  na  'm  fiabhras,  70 

Mo  chomhdhalt'  alainn,  deas,  ceutach, 

An  dels  a  reubadh  gu  dluth ; 
134 


LAMENT  FOR  COLIN  OF  GLENURE 

You  past  speech  on  your  side, 
While  the  life  in  you  died, 
Your  fair  red  foaming  tide 

Gushing  out  with  full  scope, 
By  his  act,  the  vain  fool. 
With  no  sense,  or  control, 
Who  for  pelf  sold  his  soul. 

Nor  in  mercy  put  hope. 

Heart  with  no  awe,  or  dread, 
To  luck,  hope,  feeling  dead. 
Who  thy  causeless  death  sped, 

And  sense  or  reason  ne'er  saw. 
He  took  wrong  for  his  guide, 
111  the  event  doth  betide. 
We  in  sickness  abide, 

And  himself  an  outlaw  ; 
And  though  restless  he  lie. 
Fearing  capture  anigh. 
Not  for  him  do  I  sigh, 

But  how  the  upshot  befell ; 
One  trim  blithe  hero 
In  Ardchattan  lies  now. 
He  securely  laid  low. 

Where  for  aye  he  sleeps  well. 

Tis  your  unending  sleep 
Doth  my  soul  sombre  keep. 
Vain  thoughts  often  sweep 

Anew  swiftly  o'er  me ; 
On  me  sore  grew  the  pain. 
Worse  than  fever  you  slain. 
Brother  mine,  peerless,  fain, 

Torn  and  wounded  thickly ; 
^35 


CAILEAN  GHLEANN  lUBHAIR 

Mile  mallachd  do'n  laimh  sin, 
A  ghabh  cothrom  is  fath  ort, 
A  thug  an  comas  do'n  lamhach,  76 

'N  uair  chuir  e  'n  Spainteach  r'a  shuil ; 
Sgeula  soilleir  a  b'  aill  learn, 
Gu'n  cluinnt'  am  follais  aig  each, 
E  bhi  dol  ri  cromaig  le  farad h, 

Gus  am  miosa  dha-san  na  dhuinn.  80 

Ge  b'e  neach  a  rinn  plot  ort 
Le  droch  dhurachd  o  thoiseach, 
Bu  dana  chuis  dha  tighinn  ort-sa, 

Na  do  lotadh  as  ur ; 
Bha  'na  run  bhi  gu  h-olc  dhuit,  85 

'S  gun  a  chridh'  aig**  aodann  a  nochdadh, 
'S  ann  a  thain'  e  samhach  mu'n  chnocan, 

'S  a  ghabh  ort  socair  o  d'  chul. 
'S  e  mo  dhiubhail  a  thachair. 

An  am  do'n  fhudar  ud  lasadh,  90 

Nach  robh  ad  chairdean  an  taic  riut, 

Na  bheireadh  aicheamhail  diubh  ; 
'S  a  liuthad  fiuran  deas,  tlachdmhor, 
Nach  gabhadh  ciiram  roimh  bhagradh, 
A  chuireadh  smuid  ris  an  Apuinn,  95 

A  chionn  gu'm  faiceadh  iad  thu. 

'S  trom  a  phaigh  sinn  an  iobairt, 
A  chuir  ar  namhaid  a  dhith  oirnn, 
Ged  tha  'n  aicheamhail  gun  dioladh, 

Thig  fhathast  liontan  mu'n  chuis,  100 

Chuireas  each  an  staid  losail 
Air  son  an  ailleagain  phriseil, 
Bh**  anns  an  aite  mar  fhirean, 

A  chleachd  firinn  is  cliu : 
136 


LAMENT  FOR  COLIN  OF  GLENURE 

On  that  hand  thousand  bans, 
That  at  you  took  fell  chance, 
The  shot's  power  to  enhance, 

Eye  to  gun  bending  down  ; 
I  should  hail  tidings  clear, 
Heard  in  each  open  ear. 
At  hook  trapwise  he's  near 

A  worse  fate  than  our  own. 

Whoe'er  on  you  did  his  worst 
With  ill-will  from  the  first, 
A  bolder  thing  his  first  burst 

Than  you  twice  to  attack ; 
Resolved  you  to  efface, 
With  no  heart  to  show  face, 
Round  knoll  quiet  did  he  pace. 

Aimed  secure  at  your  back. 
'Twas  my  ruin  was  boded. 
When  yon  powder  exploded. 
No  friends  near  you  were  goaded 

Their  vengeance  to  wreak  ; 
So  many  trim  youths  with  ways 
That  no  threats  would  amaze. 
Who'd  put  Appin  ablaze 

That  you  they  might  seek. 

Much  that  sacrifice  cost  us, 
Our  fell  foe  has  lost  us. 
Though  unpaid  is  stern  justice. 

Snares  will  yet  bind  the  thing, 
And  put  some  in  low  case 
For  the  jewel  of  grace, 
A  just  man  in  the  place. 

Truth  and  right  practising : 
137 


OAILEAN  GHLEANN  lUBHAIK 

'S  bochd  an  nuaigheachd  r^a  aireamh,  105 

Gur  ann  an  nasgaidh  a  tha  thu, 
Nach  tainig  fhathast  mu'n  chas  ud, 

Na  dheanadh  abhachd  thoirt  duinn ; 
Ach  air  fhad  's  gu'm  bi  dail  ann, 
Cho  ceart  's  tha  mi  'g  raite,  110 

Bidh  an  fhalachd  ud  paighte, 

Mu'n  teid  an  gamhlas  air  chul. 

""S  iad  na  fineachan  laidir 

Bu  mhaith  a  ghabhail  do  phairte, 

An  Righ,  is  Diuc  Earra-ghaidheal,  116 

Nach  fhaiceadh  faillinn  ad  chuis ; 
larla  dUgheach  Bhraid-albann, 
Air  thus  a'  tighinn  gun  chearbaich, 
'S  gur  iomadh  fear  armach, 

A  sheasadh  calma  r'a  chul ;  120 

Mac  Aoidh  's  a  luchd-leanmhainn, 
Leis  an  eireadh  suinn  nach  bu  leanbaidh, 
Na  laoich  bhuidhneach,  mhdr,  mheanmnach, 

Le'n  lannan  ceann-bheairteach,  cuil ; 
Mac  Dhomhnuil  Duibh,  's  Clann  Chamshroin,     125 
'S  gu  leoir  de  thighearnan  ainmeil ; 
'S  fhad  o'n  chuala  sinn  seanachas 

Gu'n  do  dhearbh  iad  an  cliu. 

■"S  ghabh  thu  aite  le  ordugh, 

Air  pairt  de  Shrath  Locha  130 

'S  cha  b"*  ann  air  ghaol  storais, 

Na  los  am  porsan  thoirt  diubh ; 
Ach  a  sheasamh  an  corach, 
Le  meud  do  cheist  air  an  t-seors"*  ud, 
'S  an  oighre  dleasnach  air  fogradh,  135 

G'am  bu  choir  bhi  's  a'  chuirt : 

138 


LAMENT  FOR  COLIN  OF  GLENURE 

111  the  news — to  tell  true — 
Unregarded  are  you, 
Nor  has  come  hitherto, 

What  would  gladden  our  lot ; 
But  with  whatever  delay 
Paid,  as  sure  ias  I  say. 
Will  be  your  butchery 

Ere  the  sting  be  forgot. 

Strong  clans  they  meanwhile 
That  would  on  your  cause  smile. 
The  King,  and  Argyll, 

Would  not  see  your  case  lack ; 
The  Breadalbane  by  right. 
Coming  first  maugre  spite. 
And  many  armed  men  of  might 

Bravely  stand  at  his  back  ; 
M'Kay  in  whose  train 
Rise  not  babes  but  stout  men. 
Conquering  heroes,  great,  stern 

Hilt-guarded  backswords  they  flame ; 
LochieFs  Camerons  rough. 
And  of  famed  lords  enough ; 
Long  weVe  heard  they're  the  stuff 

That  established  their  fame. 

You  went  in  by  decree 
On  part  of  Strathlochy, 
Not  for  cupidity. 

Nor  them  to  defraud ; 
But  their  rights  to  assert. 
Such  your  love  for  yon  sort 
Whose  heir  rightful  at  court 

Should  have  been,  the  outlawed : 
139 


CAILEAN  GHLEANN  lUBHAIR 

'S  ged  a  theireadh  luchd-faoineachd, 
Gu'n  robh  t'  aire-sa  daonnan, 
Bhi  sgainiieart  nan  daoin'  ud, 

Na  'n  leigeadh  sgaoilteach  air  chul ;  140 

Chite  f hat  hast  a"  chaochladh 
Na'm  faigheadh  tu  saoghal, 
Gur  e  bhi  tarruing  luchd-gaoil  ort, 

As  gach  taobh,  a  bha  'd  run. 

Bu  tu  cridhe  na  feile,  145 

Dh"*  fhas  gu  tighearnail,  ceutach. 

An  lathair  bhreitheamh  Dhun-eideinn, 

'S  trie  a  reitich  thu  cuis ; 
'S  oil  learn  caradh  do  cheud-mhna, 
'S  6g  a"*  bhanntrach  ad  dheidh  i,  150 

Lion  campar  gu  leir  i, 

O'n  a  dh'eug  a  ceile  deas,  ur ; 
Fhuair  mi  'n  sealladh  nach  b'eibhinn, 
An  uaigh  mu  d'  choinnimh  ""ga  reiteach, 
""S  truagh  gach  comunn  thug  speis  dhuit,  155 

O'n  chaidh  thu  fein  anns  an  uir, 
^S  gun  duil  a  nis  ri  thu  dh'eirigh, 
'S  e  dh'fhag  mise  fo  euslaint, 
Bhi  'n  diugh  ag  innseadh  do  bheusan, 

'S  nach  tig  thu  dh'eisdeachd  mo  sgiuil.  160 


140 


LAMENT  FOR  COLIN  OF  GLENURE 

And  though  tattlers  maintain 
Aye  your  one  aim  to  gain 
Was  to  slander  yon  men, 

Yet  were  gossip  discounted, 
'Twere  yet  seen  other  ways. 
Had  you  got  length  of  days, 
'Twas  your  dear  friends  to  raise 

On  all  sides  that  you  wanted. 

You  were  bounty's  own  heart. 
Grown  to  lordly  great  part. 
In  Edina's  chief  court 

Oft  a  cause  you  well  pled  ; 
At  your  wife's  state  I'm  grieved, 
A  young  widow  bereaved, 
FiUed  with  grief  unrelieved 

Since  her  fresh  spouse  is  dead ; 
I  got  to-day  a  sad  view 
Of  the  grave  made  for  you ; 
Grieved  all  sorts  that  you  knew 

Since  you've  entered  the  vale. 
With  no  hope  you'll  rise  more 
I  am  plunged  in  grief  sore 
While  your  ways  I  go  o'er 

You'll  not  come  list  my  tale. 


141 


ORAN  DO'N  BRIOGAIS 


ORAN   DO'N    BRIOGAIS. 
Air  Fonn,  "  Seann  Triuhhais   UilleanC 

LUINNEAG. 

"^S  o  tha  na  hriogais  liath-ghlas 

Am  hliddhna  cur  mulaid  oirnn, 

""S  e  ^n  rud  rmchfhacas  riamh  oirnn, 

''S  nach  miann  leinn  a  chumail  oirnn ; 

''S  na'm  bitheamaid  uile  dileas  5 

Do'^n  Etgh  bha  toirt  cuwidh  dhuinn, 

Cha  n-fhaicte  sinn  gu  dtlinn 

A^  strlochdadh  do'n  chulaidh  so. 

^S  olc  an  seol  duinn,  am  Prionns'  6g 
A  bhi  fo  mhdran  duilichinn,  10 

Is  Righ  Deorsa  a  bhi  chomhnuidh, 
Far  'm  bu  choir  dha  tuineachas ; 
Tha  luchd-eolais  a'  toirt  sgeoil  duinn 
Nach  robh  coir  air  Lunnainn  aige, 
'S  e  Hanobhar  an  robh  sheorsa,  16 

'S  coigreach  oirnn  an  duine  sin : 
'S  e  'n  righ  sin  nach  buineadh  dhuinn, 
Rinn  dimeas  na  dunach  oirnn, 
Mu*n  ceannsaich  e  buileach  sinn, 
B'  e  'n  t-am  dol  a  chumasg  ris ;  20 

Na  rinn  e  oirnn  de  dh'  an-tlachd, 
De  mhiothlachd,  is  de  dh'  aimhreit, 
Ar  n-eudach  thoirt  gun  taing  dhinn, 
Le  ainneart  a  chumail  ruinn. 
''S  o  tha  na  hriogais,  etc. 
142 


SONG  TO  THE  BREECHES 

SONG  TO  THE  BREECHES. 

Tune,  "  Seann  Triubhais  Uilleamy 

Lay. 

Till  the  light  grey  breeJcs  have  been  on  us 
This  year,  and  sorrow  heap  on  uSy 
''Tis  a  thing  was  never  seen  on  us, 
And  we''ve  no  wish  to  keep  on  us ; 
And  if  we  all  had  faithful  been 
To  the  Kifig  who  was  inviting  us, 
We  never  never  had  been  seen 
Allowing  these  bedighting  us. 

Deep  our  offence  that  the  young  Prince 

Is  in  great  tribulation, 
King  George  elate  dwelling  in  state 

In  the  Prince's  rightful  station  ; 
Folks  knowing  well  the  story  tell 

To  London  right  he  never  wan, 
His  sires  came  over  from  Hanover, 

A  stranger  o'er  us  is  that  man  : 
A  king  is  yon  that  we  disown. 

He  brought  destroying  blight  with  him. 
Before  he  do  us  quite  subdue, 

'Twere  time  to  go  and  fight  with  him ; 
He  worked  full  measure  of  displeasure. 

Disrespect,  malevolence. 
Our  clothes  to  rieve  without  our  leave. 

And  follow  us  with  violence. 

Till  the  light  grey  breeks,  etc. 
143 


k 


ORAN  DO'N  BRIOGAIS 

'S  o'n  a  chuir  sinn  suas  am  briogais,  25 

Gur  neo-mhiosail  leinn  a**  chulaidh  ud 

G'an  teannadh  mu  na  h-iosgannan, 

Gur  trioblaideach  leinn  umainn  iad ; 

'S  bha  sinn  roimhe  misneachail, 

'S  na  breacain  fo  na  criosan  oirnn,  30 

Ged  tha  sinn  am  bitheantas 

A  nise  cur  nan  sumag  oirnn ; 

■^S  ar  leam  gur  h-olc  an  duais 

Do  na  daoine  chaidh  's  a'  chruadal, 

An  aodaichean  thoirt  uapa  35 

Ge  do  bhuannich  Diuc  Uilleam  leo. 

Cha  n-fhaod  sinn  bhi  sulasach, 

O'li  chaochail  ar  culaidh  sinn, 

Cha  n-aithnich  sinn  a  cheile 

La  feilie  no  cruinneachaidh.  40 

'S  bha  uair-eigin  an  t-saoghal 

Nach  saoilinn  gu'n  cuirinn  orm, 

Briogais  air  son  aodaich, 

'S  neo-aoibheil  air  duine  i ; 

'S  ged  tha  mi  deanamh  uis  dith,  45 

Cha  d'rinn  mi  bonn  sulais 

Ris  an  deise  nach  robh  daimheil 

Do'n  phairtidh  g'am  buininn-sa ; 

'S  neo-sheannsar  a**  chulaidh  i, 

Gur  granda  leinn  umainn  i,  50 

Cho  teann  air  a  cumadh  dhuinn, 

'S  nach  Vfheairrde  leinn  tuilleadh  i 

Bidh  putain  anns  na  gluinean. 

Is  bucalan  g'an  dunadh, 

'S  a'  bhriogais  air  a  dubladh,  55 

Mu  chulaibh  a  h-uile  fir. 
144 


SONG  TO  THE  BREECHES 

Now  since  we  use  put  up  the  trews 

Yon  dress  we  are  despising, 
Drawing  them  close  about  the  houghs 

We  think  demoralising ; 
Courageous  were  we  heretofore, 

With  plaids  beneath  our  belts  on  us, 
But  now  do  we  don  commonly 

The  saddle-cloths  for  kilts  on  us ; 
In  my  regard  an  ill  reward 

To  men  who  hardship  dared  defy, 
Their  clothes  last  hem  to  strip  from  them- 

The  folk  Duke  William  conquered  by, 
And  joyous  we  may  never  be. 

Our  dress  has  changed  us  sairly. 
We'll  never  know  each  other  now 

At  gathering  or  on  fair-day. 

At  one  stage  of  my  pilgrimage 

I  did  not  think  Fd  put  on  me 
A  pair  of  trews  in  lieu  of  clothes, 

On  man  it  figures  awkwardly : 
Though  of  the  trews  I'm  making  use, 

I  felt  no  cause  for  jubilee, 
Because  the  dress  suits  not  the  race 

Or  party  of  which  I  should  be ; 
This  garb  for  us  is  ominous. 

We  think  it  ugly  back  and  fore. 
It  is  so  tight  to  us  bedight. 

We'd  never  wish  to  have  it  more ; 
Buttons  there  be  along  the  knee. 

To  fasten  them  the  buckles  run. 
And  oh  !  the  trews  are  doubled  close 

About  the  back  of  every  one. 
145 


ORAN  DO'N  BRIOGAIS 

Gheibh  sinn  adan  ciar-dhubh, 

Chur  dioji*'  air  ar  mullaichean, 

Is  casagan  cho  sliogta, 

'S  a  mhinicheadh  muilean  iad.  60 

Ged  chumadh  sin  am  fuachd  dhinn, 

Cha  ii-fhag  e  sinn  cho  uallach, 

'S  gu'n  toillich  e  ar  n-uaislean 

Ar  tuath  no  ar  cumanta. 

Cha  taitinn  e  gu  brath  ruinn  65 

A  choiseachd  nan  gleann-fasaich, 

'N  uair  a  rachamaid  do  dh"*  airigh, 

No  dh'  ait  am  biodh  cruinneagan  : 

■•S  e  Deorsa  rinn  an  eucoir, 

'S  ro  dhiombach  tha  mi  fein  deth,  70 

O'n  thug  e  dhinn  an  fheile, 

'S  gach  eudach  a  bhuineadh  dhuinn. 

'S  bha  h-uile  h-aon  de*'n  phariamaid 
Fallsail  le'm  fiosrachadh, 

'N  uair  chuir  iad  air  na  Caimbeulaich  75 

Teanndachd  nam  briogaisean ; 
'S  gur  h-iad  a  rinn  am  feum  dhaibh 
A*  bhliadhna  thain'  an  streupag, 
A  h-uile  h-aon  diubh  dh'eirigh 
Gu  leir  am  Mihsi  dhaibh  ;  80 

'S  bu  cheannsalach,  duineil  iad, 
'San  am  an  robh  an  cumasg  ann, 
Ach  's  gann  daibh  gu'n  cluinnear  iad 
A  champachadh  tuille  leis  ; 
O'n  thug  e  dhinn  an  t-aodach,  85 

'S  a  dh'  fhag  e  sinn  cho  faontrach, 
'S  ann  rinn  e  oirnn  na  dh'  fheudadh  e, 
Shaoileadh  e  chur  mulaid  oirnn. 
146 


SONG  TO  THE  BREECHES 

Hats  we'll  get  of  dusky  jet 

Upon  our  crowns  to  shield  them, 
And  coats,  forsooth,  as  sleek  and  smooth 

As  if  a  mill  had  milled  them. 
Though  that  should  hold  from  us  the  cold 

"^rwill  not  leave  us  so  gay  and  vain 
That  it  will  please  our  proud  grandees. 

Our  tenants,  or  our  common  men. 
To  us  it  would  never  seem  good 

To  walk  the  grassy  glens  with, 
When  we  would  to  a  shelling  go, 

Or  where  our  smart  girl  friends  live : 
It  is  the  King  did  this  wrong  thing. 

And  angered  much  and  pained  I  was, 
He  stript  our  legs  of  fiUibegs, 

And  all  dress  that  pertained  to  us. 

And  all  those  sent  to  Parliament 

Were  false  to  what  they  knew,  sirs, 
When  they  put  on  the  Campbell  clan 

The  tightness  of  the  trowsers ; 
For  they  it  was  that  served  the  cause 

The  year  the  strife  of  death  came. 
And  one  and  all  did  they  enroll 

As  their  Militia  with  them  ; 
They  manly  were  all  things  to  dare 

What  time  the  broil  was  ramping. 
But  few  of  them  will  story  claim 

As  with  him  more  encamping ; 
Since  he  from  us  stript  off  our  clothes, 

And  so  forlorn  did  leave  us. 
Of  all  he  durst  he  did  the  worst, 

Whatever  he  thought  would  grieve  us. 
147 


MARBH-RANN  COILICH 

'S  ann  a  nis  tha  fios  againn 

An  t-iochd  a  rinn  Diuc  Uilleam  ruinn,  90 

""N  uair  a  dh'  fhag  e  sinn  mar  phriosanaich, 

Gun  bhiodagan,  gun  ghunnachan, 

Gun  chlaidheamh,  gun  chrios  tarsuinn  oirnn, 

Cha  n-fhaigh  sinn  pris  nan  dagachan ; 

Tha  comannd  aig  Sasunn  oirnn,  95 

O  smachdaich  iad  gu  buileach  sinn : 

Tha  angar  is  duilichinn 

'San  am  so  air  iomadh  fear, 

Bha  'n  campa  Dhiuc  Uilleam, 

Is  nach  fheairrd  iad  gu'n  bhuidhinn  e ;  100 

Na'n  tigeadh  oirnne  Tearlach, 

'S  gu'n  eireamaid  'na  champa, 

Gheibhte  breacain  charnaid, 

'S  bhiodh  aird  air  na  gunnachan. 


MARBH-llANN   COILICH. 

An  cuala  sibh  an  t-sealg, 
A  bha  ainmeil  air  feadh  nam  bailtean  ? 

Rinneadh  i  'san  anmoch, 
'S  cha  b'  fhearr  dhuinn  i  bhi  's  a'  mhaduinn ; 

O'n  a  bha  i  cearbach  5 

Le  dearbhadh,  'n  uair  chaidh  i  seachad ; 

Cumaidh  sinn  am  foirm, 
Gu'n  robh  'n  dorch  ann,  's  nach  fheudte  faicinn. 

*'S  olc  an  obair  oidhche 
Le  coinnlean,  ged  thcid  an  lasadh,  10 

Gunnaireachd  dhaoin'  oga ; 
'S  i  ghoraich'  a  thug  a  mach  iad. 
148 


ELEGY  FOR  A  COCK 

Now  it  is  so  we  surely  know 

The  clemency  Duke  William  works, 
When  us  he  left,  like  thralls  bereft, 

Withouten  either  guns  or  dirks, 
On  us  no  glaive,  no  cross-strap  brave. 

E'en  pistols  we  shall  get  no  more ; 
O'er  us  England  has  got  command. 

Since  us  they  have  quite  triumphed  o'er. 
There's  anger's  swell  and  grief  as  well 

At  this  time  upon  many  a  man 
Was  fain  to  tramp  Duke  William's  camp, 

And  had  preferred  he  never  wan. 
Did  Charlie  reign  o'er  us  again. 

And  in  his  camp  we  took  our  place. 
The  plaids  of  red  would  there  be  had. 

And  all  the  guns  in  readiness. 


ELEGY  FOR  A  COCK. 

Heard  ye  of  the  hunting. 
That  was  famed  the  townships  thorough  ? 

It  was  done  late ;  and  no  better 
Had  we  liked  it  on  the  morrow ; 

For  'twas  a  clumsy  business. 
When  'twas  past,  with  fatal  mark ; 

We'll  hold  to  the  pretence 
That  none  could  see,  since  it  was  dark. 

Bad  is  their  work  at  night  time 
Although  there  are  candles  lighted. 

The  gunnery  of  young  men  ! 

Folly  brought  them  out  excited. 
149 


MARBH-RANN  COILICH 

Chuar  iad  's  a  h-uil'  aite 
Am  breamas  a  rinn  Paruig, 

'N  uair  a  dh''innis  e  do  chach  e,  15 

Gu'n  tainig  an  croman-lachdunn  ; 

Bheireadh  e  na  bcndean 
Gur  mdr  e,  ""s  bhroilleach  glas  air, 

Is  gu'n  do  laigh  e  direach 
Air  cirean  muUaich  na  h-aitreibh ;  20 

Mur  cumadh  a'  chornhP  e, 
Gu'm  biodh  na  h-eoin  air  an  sgapadh ; 

Nach  mor  a  bhiodh  beo  dhiubh 
Gun  leon  mu'n  tigeadh  a'  mhaduinn. 


Sin  'n  uair  ghlac  an  sealgair,  25 

An  gunna  bh'  air  an  ealchainn, 

'S  chuir  e  luaidhe  gharbh  innte, 
Dairearach  de'n  acfhuinn  Shasn'aich  ; 

Chum  e  sud  r'a  shealbhan, 
'S  gu'm  b"*  fhearr  gu'n  rachadh  i  seachad,  30 

'S  ann  a  rinn  e  marbhadh, 
A  b'  ainmig  a  leithid  fhaicinn  ; 

'N  uair  a  las  am  fudar, 
'S  e  'n  duil  gu'n  deanadh  e  thapadh, 

'S  e  coileach  an  dunain,  35 

A  bha  'na  chruban  's  a'  chlapail. 


B'e  sin  an  coileach  boidheach, 
Bha  cuid  air  fiamh  an  oir  dheth, 

Cuid  eile  mar  na  rosan, 
'S  bha  moran  deth  mar  an  sneachda  40 

»5o 


ELEGY  FOR  A  COCK 

They've  heard  in  every  quarter 
Of  the  harm  Pat  was  contriving, 

When  he  told  to  every  creature 
Of  the  great  dun  kite's  arriving ; 

That  he  would  take  his  oath 
That  it  was  huge  and  greyish  breasted, 

And  straight  upon  the  top  ridge 
Of  the  steading,  there  it  rested ; 

If  way  the  door  were  giving 
The  hens  would  all  be  scattered ; 

And  not  many  of  them  living. 
When  came  day,  save  torn  and  tattered. 


Then  when  the  gun  from  th'  pin 
The  hunter  in  his  hands  got. 

And  put  the  rough  lead  in, 
A  rattling  charge  of  English  swan-shot ; 

He  aimed  it  at  the  quarry. 
Better  far  his  aim  had  failed  him. 

For  he  did  execution 
And  the  like  was  seen  but  seldom  ; 

When  the  powder  flashed, 
He  hoped  to  show  that  he  was  clever. 

But  it  was  the  cock  o*  the  midden 
That  was  fallen,  all  a-quiver. 


That  was  a  bonny  rooster, 
Part  of  him  a  golden  glow. 

And  part  was  like  the  roses. 
And  much  of  him  like  the  snow. 


MARBH-RANN  COILICH 

Bu  leathann  a  chrogan, 
B'  e  'n  smogairneach  e  air  faiche ; 

Bu  ro  mhaith  na  botan, 
An  romaich''  a  bh'  air  a  chasan  ; 

Bha  spuir  air  a  spogan,  45 

Bha  corr  a  dh'ionnsuidh  a'  ghleachdaidh 

'N  uair  a  thigeadh  Di-mairt 
A  bhiodh  each  a'  feuchain  an  gaisge. 


B'  e  sin  an  coileach  ceutach, 
Bha  coslach  ris  a*'  pheucaig,  50 

'S  an  uair  a  chaidh  a  reubadh, 
B'  e  'n  deisinn  learn  bhi  'ga  fhaicinn ; 

Cha  leighiseadh  leigh  e, 
""S  a  chreuchdan  a'  dol  am  braisead, 

Tonnan  dh'a  fhuil  chraobhaich,  55 

A'  taomachadh  as  a  chraiceann  ; 

An  t-sealg  a  rinn  na  daoine, 
Gun  saoithreachadh  fad  air  astar, 

Gun  uchdach  a  dhireadh, 
Ach  eadar  a"*  ghriosach  ""s  an  stairsneach.  60 


'S  an  dithisd  thug  am  binne, 
'S  a  dh'  fhag  e  'n  sin  'na  shineadh, 

B"  e  'm  breitheamh  rinn  a  dhiteadh 
•S  b'  e  'n  giomanach  rinn  a  leagadh ; 

"•S  cha  n-fhagadh  iad  shios  e,  65 

Na'm  faigheadh  e  firinn  is  ceartas : 

Cha  dVinn  e  riamh  eucoir, 
'S  deagh  bheusan  aige  mar  fhasan. 
152 


ELEGY  FOR  A  COCK 

Wide-spread  were  his  talons, 
He  was  thick -set  on  a  green. 

And  very  good  the  gaiters 
On  his  feet,  the  hairy  sheen ; 

And  spurs  were  on  his  claws,  too 
Which  were  pointed  for  the  battle. 

When  round  would  come  the  Tuesday 
And  each  one  would  show  his  mettle. 


That  was  the  rooster  first  rate, 
The  peacock  such  another. 

But  when  he  was  torn  and  prostrate. 
Seeing  him  caused  me  a  shudder ; 

No  doctor  could  him  doctor. 
Since  his  wounds  in  floods  were  gushing. 

Waves  of  the  foaming  life-blood 
Out  of  his  skin  were  rushing ; 

The  hunting  which  the  men  did. 
Without  toiling  far  in  fresh  wold. 

Men  who  never  hill  ascended. 
Save  between  the  hearth  and  threshold. 


The  two  that  passed  their  sentence, 
And  left  him  so  extended. 

Were  the  judge  that  did  condemn  him 
And  the  sportsman  that  him  ended ; 

They  would  not  have  left  him  lowly, 
Had  he  got  but  right  and  justice ; 

For  he  ne'er  did  wrong  or  folly. 
And  good  manners  were  his  practice. 
153 


MARBH-EANN  COILICH 

Theannadh  e  ri  eigheach 
Gu  h-eifeachdach  's  sinn  'n  ar  cadal ;  70 

Is  dhuisgeadh  e  gu  leir  sinn, 
'S  gu'n  eireamaid  anns  a'  mhaduinn. 

Chaidh  litir  do  Shrath  Eireann, 
A  dh'  ionnsuidh  nighean  Sheumais, 

A  dh'  innseadh  ceart  an  sgeula,  75 

Do'n  te  dhiubh  air  am  bheil  Sesi : 

Gu  bheil  sinn  fo  champar, 
Cn  am  an  tainig  an  sneachda, 

Mu'n  choileach  a  chaill  sinn, 
Is  gann  a  dh'  fhaodar  a  sheachnadh ;  80 

O  's  te  nach  'eil  teann  i, 
'S  nach  ganndar  a  rinn  i  chleachdadh, 

Gu'n  dean  i  ruinn  fabhar, 
O  's  abhaist  rud  a  bhi  aice. 

Beannachd  aig  an  ribhinn,  85 

A  bha  gu  suairce,  siobhailt, 

Nach  do  leig  air  di-chuimhn' 
An  sgriobhadh  sin  a  chur  dhathaigh ; 

'S  chuir  i  gilP  an  tir  so, 
Le  sioltaiche  do  na  cearcan,  90 

'S  ghiulain  e  gu  riomhach, 
A'  ghibht  phriseil  ud  'na  achlais. 

Tha  dreach  an  fhir  a  dh'  fhag  sinn 
A'  fas  air  an  fhear  a  th'  againn ; 

'S  o  'n  tha  e  'na  aite,  95 

Saoilidh  each  gur  h-e  mhae  e. 


154 


ELEGY  FOR  A  COCK 

He  would  begin  a-crowing, 
While  we  slept,  so  enterprising ; 

And  would  wake  us  in  the  morning, 
One  and  all  we  would  be  rising. 

To  Strathearn  did  missive  travel, 
Twas  addressed  to  James's  lassie. 

The  tale  aright  to  unravel 
To  the  one  of  them  called  Jessie  : 

That  we  are  in  vexation. 
Since  the  time  the  snow  appeared. 

About  the  cock — we  lost  him — 
And  that  scarce  might  he  be  spared ; 

Since  she's  one  that's  not  niggard, 
And  that  never  practised  greed, 

A  favour  she  will  do  us. 
Something  aye  she  has  at  need. 

A  blessing  on  the  damsel 
Who  was  civil,  well  intended, 

Who  did  not  let  escape  her 
That  writing  home  to  send  it ; 

And  she  sent  a  lad  to  this  land 
With  a  treader  for  the  harem. 

And  nicely  did  he  carry  it — 
Yon  rich  gift — 'neath  his  arm. 

The  look  of  him  that  left  us 
Grows  on  our  present  one ; 

Since  in  his  stead  he's  reigning 
All  men  think  that  he's  his  son. 


155 


ORAN,  MAR  GU'N  DEANADH  NIGHEAN 


ORAN,   MAR  GU'N   DEANADH   NIGHEAN 
E   DO   NIGHINN   EILE. 

Chuir  nighean  dubh  Raineach 
Orm  farran  is  miothlachd, 
Nach  cuir  mi  dhiom 
Le  cabhaig  an  drasd' — 
Ghoid  i  mo  sporan,  5 

'S  na  dolair  gu  lionmhor, 
Bh'  agam  fo  's  n-iosal 
Feitheamh  ri  m'  laimh. 

Na'm  biodh  a'  chaiP  ud 

Gu  daingean  am  priosan,  10 

Rachainn  g'a  diteadh 
Dhlonnsuidh  a'  bhais ; 
A  chionn  gu'n  do  ghoid  i 

'N  rud  beag  bha  's  sC  chludan, 
Bh'  agam  's  a"*  chuil  15 

Nach  d'  innis  mi  chach. 

'S  muladach  mise 

Gun  fhios  ciod  a  ni  mi, 
Cn  a  tha  mi 

Gun  searrach,  gun  lair,  20 

Gun  chaora,  gun  oisg, 

Gun  ghobhar,  gun  mhiseach, 
Gun  am  mart  min 
A  chriomas  am  blar. 

156 


DARK  MAID  OF  RANNOCH 


SONG   SUCH  AS   ONE   MAID   WOULD   MAKE 
TO   ANOTHER. 

Me  Rannoch's  dark  quean 

Put  in  anger  and  spleen, 

Which  I  can't  in  the  mean- 
Time  quickly  command ; 

My  purse  she  has  stown, 

Many,  many  a  crown, 

I  had  hidden  low  down 
Awaiting  my  hand. 

0  were  but  yon  limmer 
Securely  in  cummer. 

To  death  to  condemn  her 

I  would  go  myseP ; 
Because  that  she  stole 
Trifle  in  the  rag  roll, 

1  had  hid  in  snug  hole, 

Nor  did  everyone  tell. 

O  sorry  am  I, 

Knowing  not  what  to  try, 

I'm  without — reason  why — 

Colt  or  mare  of  mine  ain, 
Without  sheep,  or  gimmer. 
Goat,  kid  of  one  summer. 
Or  cow,  sleek  and  limber, 

That  browses  the  plain. 
157 


ORAN,  MAR  GU'N  DEANADH  NIGHEAN 

Cha  robh  mi  gun  airgead  25 

Gus  an  d'  fhalbh  e  gu  miomhoil, 
Leis  an  te  chrion 

Nach  do  sheall  air  mo  chas ; 
Rinn  i  mo  chreachadh, 

'S  bu  pheacach  an  ni  dhi  30 

Mise  chur  sios, 

Gun  i  fein  chur  an  aird. 

Cia  mar  a  cheannaicheas  mi 
Camraig  na  sioda, 

Na'n  leig  mi  dhiom  e  35 

Tuille  gu  brath : 
Ged  thig  am  marsant 
Le  phaca  do'n  tir, 
Cha  n-fhaigh  sinn  aon  sion 

Bhios  aige  air  dail.  40 

Bha  mo  chuid  storais 
Am  phoca  cho  uallach, 
'S  ged  a  bhiodh  buaile 
Mhart  air  mo  sgath ; 
'S  i  rinn  an  eucoir  45 

A**  bheisd  a  thug  uam  e, 
'S  tha  mi  fo  ghruaim 
O  mhaduinn  Di-mairt. 

A  righ  !  nach  robh  meirhch 

Na  cearna  so  'n  rioghachd,  50 

Anns  a"*  mhuir  iosail, 
Fada  bho  thraigh ; 
158 


DARK  MAID  OF  RANNOCH 

I  ne'er  wanted  cash 
Till  it  went  in  ill  fash, 
With  the  poor  little  hash 

Who  ignored  my  ill  plight ; 
She  has  emptied  my  coffer, 
'Twas  a  sinful  thing  of  her, 
Make  poor  me  to  suiFer, 

Nor  her  to  put  right. 

And  how  shall  I  buy 
Silk,  or  lace  of  Cam  bray  ? 
Or  let  it  away 

Evermore,  evermore  ? 
Though  the  chapman  come  back 
To  the  land  with  his  pack. 
We'll  get  nothing  we  lack 

On  tick  from  his  store. 

My  stock  of  good  metal 
In  my  pocket  did  rattle. 
As  though  fold  of  cattle 

To  my  account  lay ; 
The  trick  that  she  played  me. 
When  she  took  it,  the  jade  she, 
And  downhearted  made  me 

Since  morn  on  Tuesday. 

Would  that  light-fingered  gentry. 
These  parts  of  the  country, 
Into  deep  sea  were  sent  re- 
Mote  far  from  shore ; 
159 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

Is  caile  dhubh  Raineach 
'San  fheamain  an  iochdar, 
Chuideachadh  bidh  55 

De  phartan  nan  spag. 


MOLADH   BEINN-DORAIN. 
Air  Fonn — Piobaireachd. 

URLAR. 

An  t-urram  thai*  gach  beinn 

Aig  Beinn-dorain, 
De  na  chunnaic  mi  fo  ""n  ghrein, 

'S  i  bu  bhoidhche  learn ; 
Monadh  fada,  reidh,  5 

Cuile  'm  faighte  feidh, 
Soilleireachd  an  t-sleibh' 

Bha  mi  sonrachadh ; 
Doireachan  nan  geug, 
Coiir  anns  am  bi  feur,  10 

'S  foineasach  an  spreidh, 

Bhios  a  chomhnuidh  ann  : 
Greighean  bu  gheal  ceir, 
Faoghaid  air  an  deidh, 
'S  laghach  learn  an  sreud  15 

A  bha  sroineiseach. 
'S  aigeannach  fear  eutrom, 

Gun  mhorchuis, 
Theid  fasanda  'na  eideadh, 

Neo-sporsail :  20 

i6o 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

And  Rannoch's  dark  maid 
In  the  bottom  weeds  laid, 
The  refection  to  aid 

Of  the  partan-clawed  corps. 


PRAISE    OF   BEN   DORAIN. 

Tune. — Pibroch. 

THEME. 

Praise  o'er  mountains  every  one 

To  Ben  Dorain  be, 
All  IVe  seen  beneath  the  sun 

Methought  fairest  she  ; 
A  long  and  level  mere, 
In  nooks  are  found  the  deer, 
The  sloping  outline  clear 

I  marked  lovingly ; 
Branching  are  the  groves, 
Woods  that  the  grass  loves. 
And  watchful  are  the  droves 

That  there  are  haunting : 
Herds  white  in  the  rear. 
Their  chase  in  full  career, 
The  ranks  to  me  are  dear 

With  nostrils  panting. 
■^ris  a  fellow  light  and  dashing. 

Never  specious, 
In  his  garb  goes  in  the  fashion. 

Unostentatious : 
i6i 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

Tha  mhantal  uime  fein, 
Caithtiche  nach  treig, 
Bratach  dhearg  mar  cheir 

Bhios  mar  chomhdach  air ; 
'S  culaidh  g'a  chur  eug,  25 

Duin'  a  dheanadh  teuchd, 
Gunna  bu  mhaith  gleus 

An  glaic  oganaich ; 
Spor  anns  am  biodh  beam, 
Tarrann  air  a  ceann,  30 

Snap  a  bhuaileadh  teann 

Ris  na  h-6rdaibh  i ; 
Ochd-shlisneach  gun  fheall, 
Stoc  de'n  fhiodh  gim  mheang, 
Lotadh  an  damh  seang,  36 

Is  a  leonadh  e : 
""S  fear  a  bhiodh  mar  cheaird, 

Riu  sonraichte, 
Dh'  fhoghnadh  dhaibh  gun  taing, 

Le  chuid  seolainean ;  40 

Gheibhte  sud  ri  am 
Padruig  anns  a'  ghleann, 
Gillean  is  coin  sheang, 

'S  e  toirt  orduigh  dhaibh ; 
Peileirean  'nan  deann,  46 

Teine  g''an  cur  ann, 
Eihd  nam  beann  ard 

Theid  a  leonadh  leo. 


162 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

A  wear  that  gives  not  out 
Is  round  him  as  his  coat, 
Like  wax-red  banner  float 

WiU  his  covering  be ; 
A  weapon  death  to  speed, 
A  man  to  do  the  deed, 
A  rifle  trim  at  need 

In  a  young  man's  grasp ; 
A  flint  where  notch  is  made, 
A  strong  nail  at  its  head, 
A  trigger  striking  dead 

Against  the  hammer's  rasp  ; 
A  faultless  tube,  eight  rimmer. 
Stock  of  the  flawless  timber. 
Hurt  is  the  stag  so  limber, 

And  wounded  he  : 
A  man  not  without  art. 
Who,  for  them  set  apart. 
Them  maugre  them  could  thwart 

With  his  trickery ; 
Patrick  would  be  then 
Found  timely  in  the  glen. 
Swank  dogs  and  young  men 

His  order  quickeneth ; 
Fire  is  driving  in 
Balls  in  showers  keen 
Which  the  high  tops'  queen 

Will  be  stricken  with. 


163 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 


SIUBHAL. 

'S  i  'n  eilid  bheag,  bhinneach, 

Bu  ghuiniche  sraonadh,  50 

Le  cuinnean  geur,  biorach, 

A*"  sireadh  na  gaoithe, 
Gasganach,  speireach, 
Feadh  chreachann  na  beinne, 
Le  eagal  roimh  theine,  55 

Cha  teiririn  i  'n  t-aonach ; 
Ged  theid  i  'na  cabhaig, 

Cha  ghearain  i  maothan ; 
Bha  sinnsireachd  fallain, 
'N  uair  a  shineadh  i  h-anail,  60 

'S  toil-inntinn  learn  tannasg, 

G"*a  langan  a  chluinntinn  ; 
'S  i  **g  iarraidh  a  leannain 

'N  am  daraidh  le  caoimhneas ; 
'S  e  damh  a'  chinn  allaidh  65 

Bu  gheal-cheireach  feaman, 
Gu  cabarach,  ceannard, 

A  b'  fharumach  raoiceadh  ; 
'S  e  chomhnuidh  'm  Beinn-dorain, 

'S  e  eolach  m'a  fraoinibh.  70 

'S  ann  am  Beinn-dorain, 

Bu  mhor  dhomh  r'*a  innseadh 
A  liuthad  damh  ceannard, 

Tha  fantainn  'san  fhrlth  ud ; 
Eilid  chaol,  eangach,  75 

'S  a  laoghan  'ga  leantainn, 
Le  'n  gasganan  geala, 

Ri  bealach  a'  direadh, 
164 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 


VARIATION. 


Tis  a  peaked  hind,  the  lightest, 

The  pronest  at  huffing. 
With  sharp  snout  and  slightest, 

The  wind  she  is  snuffing, 
Slim-limbed,  pert,  aspiring, 
'Mid  the  bare  scaur  retiring. 
For  fear  of  gun  firing 

To  the  moor  never  going ; 
Though  she  speed  with  the  haste  of  her. 

Plains  not  her  breast  of  her ; 
Her  sires  never  skaith  knew. 
For  me  when  she  breath  drew, 
A  pleasure  that  wraith  grew, 

To  list  to  her  lowing ; 
She  her  lover  is  waiting 

At  the  time  of  kind  mating ; 
He's  the  wild-headed  deer. 
Of  the  white  hip  and  rear. 
And  the  high-tined  head -gear. 

Who  was  noisy  in  roaring ; 
He  dwells  on  Ben  Dorain, 

Its  shelters  well-knowing. 
It  is  on  Ben  Dorain, 

Too  much  for  my  telling, 
The  proud  stags  galore  on 

Yon  moor  that  are  dwelling ; 
A  nimble  hind,  slender. 
Her  calves  ever  mind  her. 
White-tufted  behind,  they're 

The  steep  pass  ascending 

165 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

Ri  fraigh  Choire-chruiteir, 

A'  chuideachda  phiceach  :  80 

'N  uair  a  shineas  i  h-iongan 
'S  a  theid  i  'na  deannaibh, 
Cha  saltradh  air  thalamh 

Ach  barran  nan  inean. 
Co  b"*  urrainn  g"*a  leantainn,  85 

De  dh"*  fhearaibh  na  rloghachd  ? 
'S  arraideach,  farumach, 

Carach  air  grine, 
A'  choisridh  nach  fhanadh 

Gne  smal  air  an  inntinn  ;  90 

Ach  caochlaideach,  curaideach, 
Caol-chasach,  ullamh, 
An  aois  cha  chuir  truim'  orra, 

Mulad  no  mi-ghean ; 
'S  e  shlanaich  an  culaidh,  95 

Feoil  mhais,  agus  mhuineil, 
Bhi  tamhachd  am  bunailt 

An  cuilidh  na  frithe ; 
Le  ailleas  a"*  fuireach 
Air  fasach  'nan  grunnaibh ;  loo 

'S  i  'n  asuinn  a'  mhuime 

Tha  cumail  na  ciche, 
Ris  na  laoigh  bhreaca,  bhallach, 
Nach  meihch  na  siantan, 
Le  'n  cridheachan  meara,  105 

Le  bainne  na  cioba ; 
Grisionnach,  eangach, 
Le  'n  giortagan  geala, 
Le  'n  corpanan  glana, 

Le  fallaineachd  fior-uisg  ;  110 

1 66 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

To  Harper's  Dell  wall,  where 

The  nibbling  band  all  were  : 
If  she  stretch  the  joints  tight  of  her 
And  go  with  the  might  of  her, 
On  the  ground  nought  wiU  light  of  her 

But  hoofs'  tiny  ending. 
And  follow  who  could 

Of  the  kingdom's  best  blood  ? 
They're  noisy,  meandering, 

On  level  spots  wandering. 
The  troop  on  whose  mind 

Not  a  shadow  reclined  ; 
Coquettish  and  heady. 
Slender-limbed,  ready. 
Will  weight  of  age  steady 

Them,  pining  or  sorrow  ? 
Their  state  it  recovers. 
Their  haunches  and  withers 
To  dwell  in  safe  covers 

Hill  fastnesses  thorough ; 
On  the  wilds  there  they  grouped  them, 
Fastidiously  kept  them. 
The  heath  as  the  step-dame, 

Whose  teat  does  their  cheer  share, 
The  speckled  calves  filling, 
Which  no  blasts  are  chilling, 
Whose  wild  hearts  are  thrilling 

With  milk  of  the  deer's  hair  ; 

They're  brindled  and  nimble 

With  white  girth  and  rumple 

And  clean  bodies  simple 

With  spring- well  to  cleanse  them ; 
167 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

Le  farum  gun  ghearan, 

Peadh  ghleannan  na  milltich ; 
Ged  a  thigeadh  an  sneachda 
Cha  n-iarradh  iad  aitreabh, 
'S  e  lag  a'  Choir'-altrum  115 

Bhios  aca  g'an  didean  : 
Feadh  stacan,  is  bhacan, 

Is  ghlacagan  diomhair, 
Le  'n  leapaichean  fasgach, 

An  taic  Ais-an-t-sithean.  120 

URLAR. 

B'  ionmhuinn  leam  ag  eirigh 

'San  6g-mhaduinn, 
TimchioU  air  na  sleibhtean 

'M  bu  choir  dhaibh  bhith, 
Cupal  chunntas  cheud,  125 

Luchd  nan  ceann  gun  cheill 
A'  mosgladh  gu  neo-bheudar 

Mor-sholasach ; 
Is  osgarra  o'm  beul 

Tormain  socair,  reidh,  130 

'S  glan  an  corp  's  an  ere 

Seinn  an  dreocaim  ud : 
Broc-liath  chorrach  eild' 
An  lod  g'a  loireadh  theid, 
Cuid  g'a  farraid  fhein  135 

'N  uair  bu  deonach  lea. 
'S  annsa  leam  'n  uair  theid 

lad  air  chronanaich, 
Na  na  th'ann  an  Eirinn 

De  cheblmhoireachd ;  140 

i68 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

With  noise  but  no  sorrow 

Sweet-grassy  glens  thorough ; 
And  though  snow  were  falling, 
For  no  bield  they're  calling, 
Coire  Altrum  they're  all  in, 

Its  hollow  defends  them  : 
'Mid  knolls  and  'mid  boulders 

And  nooks,  with  none  seeing. 
And  well-sheltered  wold-lairs 

Behind  Ashanteean. 

THEME. 

Twas  joy  to  me  arising 

In  the  morning  grey  ; 
Round  on  the  slopes'  horizon, 

As  behoved,  they  lay, 
A  tale  of  twice  five  score 
Of  the  senseless-headed  corps, 
Waking  harmlessly  once  more. 

Much  rejoicing ; 
Boldly  from  their  mouth 
Murmurs  easy  smooth. 
Clean  flesh  and  body  both 

Yon  deer-cry  voicing : 
Hind  restless  badger-grey 
In  mud  pool  will  go  play 
And  some  to  her  make  way 

When  she's  mellowing. 
I  love  it  more  when  these  stand 

A-bellowing, 
Than  aU  the  strains  in  Ireland, 

Harp  or  orain  ; 
169 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

'S  binne  na  gach  beus 
Anail  mhic  an  fheidh 
A'  langanaich  air  eudan 

Beinn-dorain. 
An  damh  le  bhuireadh  fein  145 

Tighinn  a  grunnd  a  chleibh, 
'S  fada  chluinnt'  a  bheuc 

An  am  toiseachaidh ; 
An  t-agh  as  binne  geum, 
'S  an  laogh  beag  'na  dheidh,  150 

Freagraidh  iad  a  cheile 

Gu  deothasach ; 
Plosg-shuil  mheallach,  gheur, 

Gun  bhonn  gloinin  innt', 
Rosg  fo  mhala  leith  155 

Cumail  seoil  oirre. 
Coisiche  maith,  treun, 
Bu  bheothaile  a  theid, 
Air  thoiseach  an  trend, 

A  bha  dochasach.  160 

Cha  robh  coir'  ad  cheum, 
'S  cha  robh  moilP  ad  leum, 
Cha  robh  deireadh  reis 

Air  an  t-seorsa  sin  ; 
'N  uair  a  bheireadh  tu  steud,  165 

'S  nach  sealladh  tu  'd  dheidh 
Cha  b'aithne  dhomh  fein 

Co  bhiodh  comhla  riut ! 
Tha  'n  eilid  anns  an  fhrith 

Mar  bu  choir  dhi  bhi,  170 

Far  am  faigh  i  millteach 

Glan,  feoirneanach ; 
170 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

And  sweeter  than  all  art 

The  breath  of  the  son  of  the  hart 

Belling  on  steepest  part 

Of  Ben  Dorain. 
The  staff  with  his  own  roar 
Coming  from  his  chest's  core, 
Long  were  it  heard  and  far 

At  starting  time ; 
The  hind  that  sweetest  lows, 
Wee  calf  behind  her  goes, 
Each  to  other  answer  throws 

With  longing  chime ; 
A  full  and  keen  quick  e'e 

With  no  squint  in  it, 
A  lash  'neath  grey  e'e  brie 

To  tak'  tent  on  it. 
A  good  walker  stout 
The  briskest  goes  out 
In  the  van  of  the  nolt 

That  was  fond  and  free. 
No  fault  in  thy  pace. 
In  thy  leap  tardiness, 
None  last  in  the  race 

In  that  family ; 
At  speed  when  thou'd  go 
Nor  behind  thee  look  throw, 
I  myself  did  not  know 

Who'd  swift  be  as  thee  ! 
In  the  forest  is  the  hind, 

As  behoves  her  to  be, 

Where  sweet-grass  she  will  find 

Pure  and  benty ; 
171 


MOLADH  BEINN-DOEAIN 

Bru-chorc  is  ciob, 

Lusan  am  bi  brigh, 

Chuireadh  suit  is  igh  175 

Air  a  loineanaibh. 
Fuaran  anns  am  bi 
Biolaire  gun  dith, 
'S  milse  leath'  na'm  fion 

'S  e  gu'n  oladh  i ;  180 

Cuiseagan  is  riasg, 
Chinneas  air  an  t-sliabh, 
B'  annsa  leath'  mar  bhiadh 

Na  na  foghlaichean. 
'S  ann  de'n  teachd-an-tir  185 

A  bha  soghar  leath', 
Sobhrach  is  eala-bhi 

""S  barra  neonagan  ; 
Dobhrach-bhallach,  mhin, 
Ghobhlach,  bharrach,  shliom,  190 

Lointean  far  an  cinn 

I  'na  mothraichean : 
Sud  am  porsan  bidh 
Mheudaicheadh  an  cli 
Bheireadh  iad  a  nios  195 

Ri  am  dolaichein : 
Chuireadh  air  an  druim 
Brata  saille  cruinn, 
Air  an  carcais  luim 

Nach  bu  I6dail.  200 

B'  e  sin  an  caidreabh  grinn 

Mu  thrath  noine, 
'N  uair  a  thionaladh  iad  cruinn. 


Anns  a'  orhl6muinn : 
172 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

Heath  rush  and  deer's  hair, 
And  herbs  of  pith  are  there, 
Would  put  fat  and  tallow  fair 

In  her  lean  flank. 
A  well  (where  used  to  be 
Cresses  unstintedly) 
Sweeter  than  wine  thought  she 

As  of  it  she  drank  ; 
Stalk  grasses  and  rough  straws, 
Upon  the  slope  it  grows, 
She  better  liked  to  browse 

Than  the  rank  grass. 
Of  all  from  earth  that  grows 

Most  worth  her  praises, 
St  John's  wort,  primrose. 

And  tops  of  daisies, 
Orchis  delicate, 
Forked,  slim,  and  elate. 
In  meadows  where  in  state 

Its  head  it  raises  : 
Yon's  their  sort  of  fare 
Would  ne'er  their  strength  impair 
But  help  them  up  to  bear 

In  dearth,  a  guerdon. 
Would  on  their  back  repair 
The  garb  of  fat  they  wear, 
Upon  their  carcass  bare 

It  were  no  burden. 
That  fellowship  was  sweet 

About  evening  time. 
Together  when  they'd  meet 

In  the  gloaming  prime : 
173 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

Air  fhad  's  gu'm  biodh  oidhch',  205 

Dad  cha  tigeadh  riu, 
Fasgadh  bhun  an  tuim 

B'  aite  comhnuidh  dhaibh : 
Leapaichean  nam  fiadh, 
Far  an  robh  iad  riamh,  210 

An  aonach  farsaing  fial, 

'S  ann  am  mor-mhonadh, 
'S  iad  bu  taitneach  fiamh, 
'N  uair  bu  daithte  am  bian, 
'S  cha  b**  i  'n  aire  am  miann,  215 

Ach  Beinn-dorain. 

SIUBHAL. 

A'  bheinn  luiseanach,  fhailleanach, 

Mheallanach,  liontach, 
Gun  choimeas  dh'a  falluing 

Air  thalamh  na  Criosdachd ;  220 

'S  ro  neonach  tha  mise, 
Le  boidhchead  a  sliosa, 
Nach  'eil  coir  aic'  an  ciste 

Air  tiotal  na  rioghachd. 
'S  i  air  dubladh  le  gibhtibh,  225 

'S  air  luisreadh  le  miosaibh 
Nach  'eil  bitheanf  a'  bristeadh 

Air  phriseanaibh  tire ! 
Lan-trusgan  gun  deireas, 
Le  usgraichean  coille,  230 

Barr-guc  air  gach  doire, 

Gun  choir'  ort  r'a  innseadh ; 
Far  an  uchd-ardach  coileach, 
Le  shriutaichibh  loinneil, 
174 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

And  long  as  night  would  bide, 
No  ill  would  them  betide, 
A  shelter  at  knoll  side 

Was  their  dwelling  still : 
The  beds  of  the  deer, 
Ever  were  they  here. 
On  wide  hospitable  mere 

And  on  great  hill. 
They  were  a  pleasant  sight, 
When  their  skin  was  coloured  bright, 
And  no  wish  had  they,  in  plight, 

But  Ben  Dorain. 

VARIATION. 

Hill  of  herb,  sprout,  and  hantle 

Of  knolls,  where  no  dearth  is ; 
No  match  to  her  mantle 

On  Christendom's  earth  is  ; 
I'm  in  great  admiration. 
From  her  side's  fascination. 
That  she  queens  not  the  nation 

By  charter-chest  entry. 
With  gifts  double  rated. 
With  fruits  she  is  freighted 
That  seldom  have  weighted 

The  shrubs  of  a  country  ! 
Full  vesture  unstinted. 
Where  wood-jewels  glinted. 
Each  grove  blossom-tinted, 

Thou'st  no  fault  worth  calling ; 
Where  the  breasted  cock  hustling, 
With  his  cheery  notes  bustling, 
175 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

■"S  eoin  bhuchalach  bheag'  eile  235 

Le  'n  ceileiribh  lionmhor. 
'S  am  buicean  beag  sgiolta, 
Bu  sgiobalf  air  grine, 
Gun  sgiorradh,  gun  tubaist, 

Gun  tuisleadh,  gun  diobradh,  240 

Crodhanadh,  biorach, 
Feadh  coire  'ga  shireadh, 
Feadh  fraoich  agus  firich, 

Air  mhire  'ga  dhireadh, 
Feadh  rainich,  is  barraich  245 

Gu'm  V  arraideach  inntinn, 
Ann  an  iosal  gach  feadain, 
'S  air  airde  gach  creagain  ; 
Gu  mireanach,  beiceasach, 

Easgannach,  sinteach.  250 

'N  uair  a  theid  e  'na  bhoile 
Le  clisge  's  a'  choille, 
Is  e  ruith  feadh  gach  doire, 

Air  dheireadh  cha  bhi  e : 
Leis  an  eangaig  bu  chaoile  255 

'S  e  b'  aotruime  sinteag, 
Mu  chnocanaibh  donna 
Le  ruith  dara-tomain, 
■"S  e  togairt  an  coinniumh 

Bean-chomuinn  os  n-iosal.  260 

Tha  mhaoisleach  bheag  bhrangach 

'S  a'  ghleannan  a  chomhnuidh, 
■"S  i  fuireach  'san  fhireach 

Le  minneinean  oga : 
Cluas  bhiorach  gu  claisteachd,  266 

Suil  chorrach  gu  faicinn, 
176 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

And  else  many  a  nestling, 

Their  varied  strains  trolling. 
And  the  wee  buck  with  gambol, 
On  green  spot  most  nimble. 
Without  slip,  or  stumble, 

Or  falter,  or  falling. 
Hoof  cloven,  head  arching. 
Through  corrie  he's  searching. 
Through  heath,  on  hill  perching. 

In  freak  all  ascending. 
Through  bracken  and  birches, 

His  wayward  mind  searches : 
In  the  deep  of  each  gully, 
On  steep  of  crag  knoUy, 
He  leaps,  becks,  in  folly, 

Agile,  thin,  a-stretch  bending. 
When  he  goes  in  no  mild  mood 
With  start  through  the  wild  wood 
Through  every  defile  would 

He  rush,  nor  be  hindmost : 
With  the  hoof  that  was  slightest, 

Of  skips  he  was  lightest. 
Among  hillocks  brown  gone. 
Leaping  each  second  one. 
In  secret  to  meet  his  own 

Spouse  that  he  minds  most. 
The  doe  small  and  snarling 

In  the  dell  dwells,  the  darling. 
She  bides  in  the  heather. 

Her  young  kidlings  with  her : 

To  list,  prick  ear  prying, 

Eye  restless  for  spying, 
177 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

'S  i  earbsach  'na  casaibh 

Chur  seachad  na  mointich  : 
Ged  thig  Caoilte  's  CuchuUainn, 

'S  gach  duine  de'ii  t-seors"*  ud,  270 

Na  tha  dhaoine  's  de  dh"'eachaibh, 

Air  fasta  Righ  Deorsa ; 
Na'n  tearnadh  a  craiceann 
O  luaidhe  's  o  lasair, 
Cha  chuala  's  cha  n-fhac'  i  275 

Na  ghlacadh  r'a  beo  i ; 
""S  i  grad-charach,  fad-chasach, 

Aigeannach,  neonach, 
Geal-chei reach,  gasganach, 
Gealtach  roimh  mhadadh,  280 

Air  chaisead  na  leacainn 

Cha  saltradh  i  comhnard  ; 
'S  i  noigeanach,  gnoigeasach 

Gog-cheannach,  sornach  ; 
Bior-shuileach,  sgur-shuileach,  285 

Frionasach,  furachair, 
A'  fuireach  's  a"*  mhunadh, 

An  do  thuinich  a  seorsa. 

URLAR. 

B'  i  sin  a'  mhaoisleach  luaineach, 

Feadh  oganan  ;  290 

Biolaichean  nam  bruach 
'S  aite  comhnuidh  dhi, 
Duilleagan  nan  craobh, 
Bileagan  an  fhraoich, 
Criomagan  a  gaoil,  295 

Cha  b"*  e  'm  fotrus. 
178 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

On  her  feet  she's  relying 

The  moss  past  to  drive : 
Come  Caoilte,  Cuchullin, 

All  of  that  sort  that  may, 
The  horse  and  men  all  in 

Great  King  George's  pay ; 
Were  her  skin  preserved  free, 
Safe  from  lead  and  fire,  she 
Has  not  heard,  ne'er  will  see, 

What  would  catch  her  alive ; 
Quick  of  move,  long  of  limb 

Full  of  spirit  and  whim, 
White  of  hip,  long  of  tail, 
Afore  dog  prone  to  quail. 
On  steep  flank  of  the  vale 

She'll  ne'er  tread  on  level ; 
She's  petted,  uncivil. 

Tossing  head,  wrath-inclined ; 
She's  high-strung  and  wary. 
Eyes  piercing,  sharp-staring. 
Upon  the  moor  faring 

Where  harboured  her  kind. 

THEME. 

That's  the  restless  doe  and  free 

Amid  sprit  and  fir ; 
The  bank  edges  has  she, 

A  retreat  for  her 

The  foliage  of  the  wood, 

Sprays  of  the  heather  good. 

Choice  morsels  of  her  food, 

Twas  no  poor  grist. 
179 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

A  h-aigneadh  aotrom  suairc, 
Aobhach,  ait,  gun  ghruaim, 
Ceann  bu  bhraise,  ghuanaiche, 

Ghoraiche ;  300 

A"*  chre  bu  cheanalf  stuaini, 
Chalaich  i  gu  buan 
An  gleann  a'  bharraich  uaine 

Bu  nosaire. 
'S  trie  a  ghabh  i  cluain  305 

'S  a'  Chreig  Mhoir, 
O'n  as  measail  leath'  bhi  Luan 

Is  a  Dhomhnach  ann  ; 
Pris  an  dean  i  suain 

Bitheanta  mu'n  cuairt,  310 

A  bhristeas  a"*  ghaoth  tuath, 

'S  nach  leig  deo  oirre, 
Am  fasgadh  Doire-chro, 
An  taice  ris  an  t-Sroin, 
Am  measg  nam  faillean  og'  315 

Is  nan  cosagan. 
Masgadh  'n  fhuarain  mhoir, 
'S  e  pailfce  gu  leoir, 
"S  blasda  leath'  na  bheoir 

Gu  bhi  poit  orra.  320 

Deoch  de''n  t-sruthan  uasal 

R'a  61  aice, 
Dh"*  fhagas  fallain,  fuasgailteach, 

Oigeil  i : 
Grad-charach  ri  uair,  325 

'S  eathlamh  bheir  i  cuairt, 
'N  uair  thachaireadh  i  'n  ruaig 

'S  a  bhiodh  toic  oirre. 
i8o 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

Gentle  her  nature,  glad, 
Light  and  joyous,  never  sad, 
Rashest,  giddiest  head  she  had 

And  happiest : 
Her  frame  most  modest  garb  wore, 
And  long  did  she  harbour 
In  the  glen  of  the  green  arbour 

The  sappiest. 
And  oft  coverts  she'd  explore 

On  Craig  More, 
She  likes  well  to  be  on  Monday 

There,  and  Sunday ; 
Bushes  where  she's  sleeping 
Thickly  round  about  her  sweeping. 
Which  will  break  the  north  wind,  keeping 

Every  breath  away. 
In  shade  of  Doire  Chro, 
And  close  by  the  Strone, 
Amid  the  brush  new-grown. 

The  shelters  sunken. 
The  brew  of  the  great  well. 
Full  enough  its  swell. 
She  sweeter  thinks  than  ale 

To  be  drunken. 
Draught  of  the  noble  river 

For  her  quaffing, 
Makes  her  free  and  healthy  ever. 

Young  and  daffing : 
Timely  springing  light. 
Instant  takes  she  flight 
When  she'd  fall  in  plight 

And  the  quest  on  her. 
i8i 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

'S  maoth-bhuidh"'  daitht'  a  snuadh, 
Dearg  a  dreach  's  a  tuar,  330 

'S  gur  a  h-iomadh  buaidh 

Tha  mar  chomhla  oirre ; 
Fulangach  air  fuachd, 
Is  i  gun  chum'  air  luathas ; 
Urram  claisteachd  chluas  335 

Na  Roiriii  Eorpa  dhi. 

SIUBHAL. 

Bu  ghrinn  leam  am  pannal 

A**  tarruing  an  ordugh, 
A'  direadh  le  farum 

Ri  carraig  na  Sroine ;  340 

Eadar  sliabh  Craobh-na-h-ainnis, 
Is  beul  Choire-dhaingein, 
Bu  bhiadhchar  greigh  cheannard 

Nach  ceannaich  am  porsan  : 
Da  thaobh  Choire-rainich  345 

Mu  sgeith  sin  a'  Bhealaich, 
Coire  Reidh  Beinn  Achaladair, 

Is  thairis  mu'n  Chonn-lon  : 
Air  Lurgainn-na-laoidhre 

Bu  ghreadhnach  a'  choisridh,  350 

Mu  Larach  na  Feinne 
'S  a'  Chreig-sheilich  'na  dheidh  sin, 
Far  an  cruinnich  na  h-eildean 

Bu  neo-speiseil  mu'n  fhoghlach  : 
'S  gu'm  b'  e  'n  aighear  is  an  eibhneas    355 
Bhi  faicheachd  air  reidhlein, 
Ag  comh-mhacnas  ri  cheile, 

'S  a'  leumnaich  feadh  mointich ; 
182 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

She's  saffron  to  the  view, 
And  red  her  form  and  hue, 
And  good  points  not  a  few, 

As  'twere  abreast  on  her. 
Of  cold  she  takes  no  heed. 
She's  withouten  shape  for  speed, 
For  hearing  goes  the  meed 

Of  Europe's  best  to  her. 

VARIATION. 

I  the  band  am  admiring 

Defiling  in  order, 
And  with  noise  retiring 

Up  the  Strone's  rocky  border ; 
'Twixt  Craobh-ainnis  they  tarry 
And  the  mouth  of  Strong  Corrie, 
A  fed  and  horned  quarry 

That  buy  not  their  portion  : 
Two  sides  of  Corrie  Rannoch, 
Round  that  wing  of  the  Balloch, 
Ren  Achallader's  Dell  smooth, 

And  o'er  round  the  Conn-Ion, 
On  the  Wallow-shank  faring 

Was  the  party  a  glad  one  ; 
Round  the  Lair  of  the  Feen, 
Then  the  Willow  Rock  green. 
Where  the  hinds  do  convene, 

For  the  rank  grass  ne'er  caring : 
'Twas  their  mirth  and  their  joy  in 
A  smooth  plain  deploying. 
Each  with  each  to  be  toying, 

And  through  mossland  linking ; 

183 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

Ann  am  poUachaibh  daimseir 

Le  sodradh  gu  meamnadh,  36O 

Gu  togarrach,  mearachdasach, 

Aineasach,  gorach. 
'S  cha  bhiodh  iot'  air  an  teangaidh 
Taobh  shios  a'  Mhili-tionail, 
Le  fion-uillt  na  h-Annaid,  365 

Bias  meala  r'a  61  air ; 
Sruth  brioghor,  geal,  tana, 
'S  e  siothladh  roimh  'n  ghaineamh, 
'S  e  's  milse  na  'n  caineal, 

Cha  b'  aineolach  oirnn  e :  370 

Sud  an  iocshlainte  mhaireann, 
A  thig  a  iochdar  an  talaimh, 
Gheibhte  lionmhorachd  mhaith  dhith 

Gun  a  ceannach  le  storas ; 
Air  farruinn  na  beinne  375 

Is  daichile  sealladh, 
A  dh'flias  anns  a'  cheithrearah 

A'  bheil  mi  n  Roinn  Eorpa : 
Le  glainead  a  h-uisge 

Gu  maoth-bhlasta,  brisg-gheal,  380 

Caoin,  caomhail,  glan,  measail, 

Neo-mhisgeach  ri  poit'  air : 
Le  fuaranaibh  grinne 
Am  bun  gruamach  na  biolair, 
Coinneach  uaine  mu'n  iomall,  385 

As  iomadach  seorsa : 
Bu  ghlan  uachdar  na  linne 
Gu  neo-bhuaireasach,  mil  is, 
Tighinn  'na  chuairteig  o**n  ghrinneal 

Air  slinnean  Beinn-dorain.  390 

184 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

To  quick  bogs  a-quaking 
Them  briskly  betaking, 
Eager,  wantonly  shaking, 

Hot,  foolish,  they  sink  in. 
No  thirst  on  their  palate 
On  Meall-tionail's  plain  flat, 
With  the  wine  burn  of  Annat, 

Honey-tasted,  to  drink  in ; 
A  streamlet  clear  thin  and  strong. 
Sand  filtering  in  among. 
Sweeter  than  cinnamon, 

Rare  we  ne'er  thought  it : 
Yon's  the  cordial  lasting 
From  earth's  core  is  hasting. 
Much  good  got  from  tasting, 

Though  wealth  never  bought  it. 
On  the  high  peak's  demesne 
Is  the  loveliest  scene 
That  in  Europe  has  been. 

In  the  quarter  that  bred  me : 
In  its  waters  no  troubling, 
Soft-tasting,  clear-bubbling. 
Mild,  pleasant,  pure,  double- clean 

To  drink  of  not  heady : 
With  fine  spring  recesses, 
At  dark  root  of  cresses, 
Yellow  moss  all  embraces 

With  many  a  fine  spore  in  : 
And  pure  the  pool's  level. 
Calm  sweet  waters  travel 
In  whorls  from  the  gravel 

On  the  sides  of  Ben  Dorain. 

185 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

Tha  leth-taobh  na  Leacainn 

Le  mais'  air  a  comhdach, 
""S  am  Frith-choirean  creagach 

'Na  sheasamh  g'a  choir  sin ; 
Gu  stobanach,  stacanach,  395 

Slocanach,  laganach, 
Cnocanach,  cnapanach, 

Caiteanach,  romach ; 
Pasganach,  badanach, 

Bachlagach,  boidheach :  400 

A  h-aisiridhean  corrach, 
'Nam  fasraichibh  molach, 
'S  i  b'fhasa  dhomh  mholadh, 

Bha  sonas  gu  leoir  oirr' : 
Cluigeanach,  gucagach,  405 

Uchdanach,  comhnard, 
Le  dithean  glan  ruiteach, 
Breac,  misleanach,  sultmhor : 
Tha  'n  fhrith  air  a  busgadh 

'San  trusgan  bu  choir  dhi.  410 

URLAR. 

'S  am  monadh  farsaing  faoin 

Glacach,  sronagach ; 
Lag  a'  Choire-fhraoich 

Cuid  bu  bhoidhche  dheth : 
Sin  am  fearann  caoin  415 

Air  an  d'  fhas  an  aoidh, 
Far  am  bi  na  laoigh 

'S  na  daimh  chrocach ; 
Is  e  deisearach  ri  grein, 
Seasgaireachd  d'a  reir,  420 

i86 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

The  Rock's  one  side  shaggy 

Has  beauty  spread  o'er  it, 
And  the  side  Corrie  craggy 

Is  standing  before  it ; 
With  peak,  and  with  precipice. 
Deep  dell,  and  hollow  space. 
Hillock  and  knoUy  place 

Tufty  and  benty. 
With  faggots  and  thicketsful 

Tangled  and  beautiful ; 
Her  steep  rugged  pathways 
Of  rough  scraggy  heath  sprays. 
Well  might  I  its  routh  praise 

It  luck  had  in  plenty ; 
With  blossom  and  bell 

On  the  plain  and  the  fell. 
With  pure  ruddy  flower. 
Fair  speckled  sweet  blower. 
Is  the  forest  busked  o'er 

In  the  garb  suits  it  well. 

THEME. 

Tis  the  wide  open  moor 

With  crag  and  pit  on  it : 
Heather  Corrie's  hollow,  sure, 

The  bonniest  bit  of  it : 
That's  the  pasture  kind. 
Where  grew  the  deer-herd  fine, 
And  where  the  calves  recline 

And  an  tiered  quarry  ; 
And  it's  due  south  to  the  sun. 
Corresponding  warmth  thereon, 
187 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

'S  neo-bheag  air  an  eildeig 

Bhi  chomhnuidh  ann. 
Leannan  an  fhir  leith 
As  farumaiche  ceum 
Nach  iarradh  a'  chleir  425 

A  thoirt  posaidh  dhaibh  ; 
'S  glan  fallain  a  ere, 
Is  banail  i  'na  beus ; 
Cha  robh  h-anail  breun, 

Ge  b'  e  phogadh  i.  430 

'S  e  'n  coire  choisinn  gaol 

A  h-uir  oganaich, 
A  chunna'  riamh  a  thaobh, 

'S  a  ghabh  eolas  air  : 
'S  lionmhor  feadan  caol  435 

Air  an  eirich  gaoth, 
Far  am  bi  na  laoich 

Cumail  comhdhalach. 
Bruthaichean  nan  learg 
Far  am  biodh  ghreigh  dhearg  440 

Ceann-uidhe  gach  sealg 

Fad  am  beo-shlaint' ; 
Is  e  Ian  de'n  h-uile  maoin, 
A  thig  a  mach  le  braon, 
Faile  nan  subh-chraobh,  445 

Is  nan  rosan  ann. 
Gheibhte  tacar  eisg 

Air  a  corsa, 
Is  bhi  'gan  ruith  le  leus 

Anns  na  mor-shruthan,  450 

Morghath  cumhann  geur 
Le  chrann  giubhais  fhein, 
1 88 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

And  the  hindling  does  not  shun 

There  to  tarry. 
The  grey  lad's  lover  sleek, 
Of  step  the  most  unmeek, 
That  would  ne'er  the  clergy  seek 

Them  to  marry ; 
Her  body's  healthy  pure, 
In  her  manner  she's  demure ; 
Her's  no  fetid  breath  to  wooer 

Who'd  favour  curry. 
Corrie  won  their  love  and  pride. 

All  youths  that  saw  it — 
Who  e'er  beheld  its  side, 

And  got  to  know  it : 
There's  many  a  narrow  dell. 
Where  wind  will  rise  and  swell. 
And  where  the  heroes  dwell. 

Keeping  company. 
Sides  of  the  passes  high. 
Where  the  red  herd  would  lie. 
Object  of  all  hunting  they 

All  their  life  be ; 
It  is  full  of  every  worth. 
That  comes  with  moisture  forth. 
Scent  of  rasp  bough  there's  no  dearth, 

Nor  of  rose  tree. 
Fish  in  plenty  found 

On  its  bound. 
To  be  running  them  with  torch  gleams 

In  the  great  streams, 
A  narrow  sharp  fish-spear. 
With  the  shaft  of  its  own  fir, 
189 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

Aig  fir  shubhach,  threubhach, 

'Nan  dornaibh : 
Bu  sholasach  a  leum  455 

Brie  air  buinne  reidh, 
Ag  ceapadh  chuileag  eutrom 

'Nan  dorlaichean. 
Cha  n'eil  muir  no  tir 

A'  bheil  tuille  brigh  460 

'S  tha  feadh  do  chrich 

Air  a  h-6rduchadh. 

AN  CEUNLUATH. 

Tha  'n  eilid  anns  a'  ghleannan  so, 

Cha  n-amadan  gun  eolas 
A  leanadh  i  mur  b'  aithne  dha  465 

Tighinn  farasda  na  comhdhail ; 
Gu  faiteach  bhi  'na  h-earalas, 
Tighinn  am  faigse  dhi  mu'n  caraich  i, 
Gu  faicilleach,  gle  earraigeach, 

Mu'm  fairich  i  'ga  coir  e ;  470 

Feadh  shloc,  is  ghlac,  is  chamhanan, 
Is  chlach  a  dheanadh  falach  air, 
Bhi  beachdail  air  an  talamh, 

'S  air  a'  char  a  thig  na  neoil  air ; 
'S  an  t-astar  bhi  'ga  tharruing  air  475 

Cho  macanta  's  a  b'  aithne  dha, 
Gu'n  glacadh  e  g'a  h-aindeoin  i 

Le  h-anabharra  seoltachd ; 
Le  tur,  gun  ghainne  baralach, 
An  t-suil  a  chur  gu  danara,  480 

A'  stiuradh  na  dubh-bannaiche, 

'S  a  h-aire  ri  fear-croice ; 
^90 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

Have  vigorous  men  of  cheer 

In  their  hand : 
'Twas  joyous  the  trout's  leap 
On  the  current  smooth  and  deep, 
Dancing  flies  to  catch  and  keep, 

Beakfuls  grand. 
There's  no  sea  or  shore 
Where  is  better  store 
Than  teems  thy  borders  o'er 

At  command. 

THE    FINALE. 

The  hind  is  in  this  little  dell, 

And  no  fool,  nothing  knowing, 
Could  follow  her  save  he  knew  well 

To  meet  her  easily  going ; 
On  the  alert  for  her  and  charily 
Nearing  her  ere  she  fare  away, 
Resourcefully,  right  warily 

Ere  nigh  her  she  descry  him ; 
Through  pit  and  cove  and  hollow  break 
And  stones  that  for  him  cover  make. 
And  of  the  ground  great  heed  to  take 

And  how  the  clouds  sail  by  him ; 
And  the  distance  to  draw  forward  still 

As  gently  as  was  known  by  him, 
To  capture  her  against  her  will 

With  best  resources  owned  by  him ; 
With  sense,  nor  lack  of  craftiness. 
The  eye  to  set  with  steadiness, 
Presenting  the  dark-barrelled  Bess 

Her  aim  upon  the  horned  one ; 
191 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

Bhiodh  rudan  air  an  tarruing 

Leis  a  lubfc'  an  t-iarunn-earra, 

Bheireadh  ionnsuidh  nach  biodh  mearachdach  485 

Do'n  fhear  a  bhiodh  'ga  seoladh ; 
Spor  ur  an  deis  a  teannachadh, 
Baiir  uird  a'  sgailceadh  daingean  ris, 
Cha  diult  an  t-srad,  'n  uair  bheanas  i 

Do'n  deannaig  a  bha  neonach :  490 

'S  e  'm  fiidar  tioram  teann-abaich 
Air  chul  an  asgairt  ghreannaich, 
'    Chuireadh  smuid  ri  acfhuinn  mheallanaich 

A  baraille  Nic  Coiseam. 
'S  i  ""n  teachdaire  bha  dealasach,  495 

Nach  mealladh  e  'na  dhochas, 
""N  uair  a  lasadh  e  mar  dhealanach, 

Gu  fear-eigin  a  leonadh. 
Gu  silteach  leis  na  peileirean 
Bhiodh  luchd  nan  luirgnean  speireanach,  500 

'S  nam  bus  bu  tirme  bheileanaich, 

Gun  mheiliche  gun  toicean. 
'S  e  camp  na  Creige-seiliche, 
Bha  ceannsalach  'nan  ceireanaibh. 
Le  aingealtas  cha  teirinn  iad,  505 

Gu  eirthir  as  an  eolas, 
I '  Mur  ceannsaichear  iad  deireasach, 
Ri  am  an  criche  deireannaich, 
A'  tabhannaich  le  deifir, 

A  bhi  deilean  air  an  torach.  510 

Gun  channtaireachd,  gun  cheileireachd, 
Ach  dranndail  chon  a'  deileis  rithe, 
A  cheann  a  chur  gu  peirealais 

Aig  eilid  Beinne-dorain ! 
192 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

Knuckle  would  be  on  finger  dent 
By  which  the  iron  tail  was  bent 
Would  send  a  message  not  misspent 

For  him  that  held  it  turned  on  ; 
A  new  flint  after  tightening  much, 
Firm  clicking  hammer-stroke  on  clutch, 
The  spark  unhanging  that  will  touch 

The  pinch  that  was  so  wondrous : 
The  dry  rammed  ready  powder  puff^ 
Behind  the  colfin  rough  and  tough 
Hurries  ball  ammunition  stuff 

From  Cosham's  barrel  thundrous. 
She  was  a  zealous  messenger, 

Who  hope  was  ne'er  dispelling. 
When  she,  like  to  the  lightning  flare. 

Would  flash  to  someone's  felling. 
Blood-dripping  with  the  bullet's  shot 
Are  they  of  the  hoofed  shanks — the  nolt 
Of  the  driest  and  the  sauciest  snout 

With  neither  chills  nor  swelling. 
From  Willow  Rock,  its  pasture  green 
Unrivalled  'mong  their  haunts  has  been, 
They  come  not  down  for  perverse  spleen 

An  unknown  land  exploring. 
Unless  they're  quelled  without  remeid. 
What  time  they're  driven  to  their  deid. 
The  baying  hunt  with  gathering  speed 

Yelling  at  all  before  them. 
No  tunefulness,  no  merry  din. 
But  dog's  snarl  at  her  hurrying. 
His  head  with  peril  burying  in 

The  hindling  of  Ben  Dorain  ! 

193  N 


MOLADH  BEINN-DORAIN 

B'ionmhainn  le  fir  cheanalta,  515 

Nach  Vaineolach  mu  sporsa, 
Bhi  timchioU  air  na  bealachaibh 

Le  fearalachd  na  li-6ige ; 
Far  am  bi  na  feidh  gu  farumach, 
'S  na  fir  'nan  deidh  gu  caithriseach,  520 

Le  gunna  bu  mhaith  barantas 

Thoirt  aingil  'n  uair  bu  choir  dhi ; 
'S  le  cuilean  foirmeil,  togarrach, 
'G  am  biodh  a  stiuir  air  bhogadan, 
'S  e  miolairtich  gu  sodanach,  525 

""S  nach  ob  e  dol  ""nan  comhdhail ; 
'Na  fhurbaidh  laidir,  cosgarrach, 
Ro  inntinneach,  neo-fhoisinneach, 
Gu  guineach,  sgiamhach,  gob-easgaidh, 

'San  obair  bh'aig  a  sheorsa ;  530 

'S  a  fhrioghan  cuilg  a'  togail  air, 
Gu  maildheach,  gruamach,  doicheallach, 
'S  a  gheanachan,  cnuasaicht',  fosgailte, 

Comh-bhogartaich  r'an  sgornan. 
Gu'm  b'  arraideach  a'  charachd  ud,  635 

'S  bu  chabhagach  i  'n  comhnuidh, 
'N  uair  a  shineadh  iad  na  h-ionganan 

Le  h-athghoirid  na  mointich ; 
Na  beanntaichean  's  na  bealaichean, 
Gu'm  freagradh  iad  mac-talla  dhuit,  540 

Le  fuaim  na  gairme  gallanaich 

Aig  farum  a'  choin  romaich : 
'Gan  tearnadh  as  na  mullachaibh 
Gu  linnichean  nach  grunnaich  iad, 
'S  ann  a  bhitheas  iad  feadh  na  tuinne ;  545 

Anns  an  luinneinich  's  iad  leointe. 
194 


PRAISE  OF  BEN  DORAIN 

'Twere  dear  to  men  of  gentle  sort, 

In  sport  who  are  no  tyros, 
Round  on  the  passes  to  resort, 

When  youth  with  manly  fire  glows ; 
Where  noisily  the  deer  will  feed. 
And  after  them  the  men,  with  heed. 
And  gun  in  hand  well-warranted 

To  fire  when  time  is  toward ; 
And  with  a  young  hound  eager  brisk. 
Whose  wagging  tail  would  be  a-whisk, 
And  as  he  whines  with  joyful  frisk. 

To  meet  them  is  no  coward ; 
In  his  strong  truculent  fury. 
Most  spirited  and  restless  he. 
Keen  yelling  and  with  jaw  ready. 

To  the  work  of  his  kind  a-hurrying ; 
His  hairy  bristles  on  him  rise. 
The  surly  churl,  with  shaggy  eyes 
And  open  mouth  he  gnashing  flies, 

At  throttle  of  them  worrying. 
Yon  move  was  devious  without  point 

And  aye  it  was  in  haste, 
When  they  would  stretch  their  every  joint 

In  short  cut  o'er  the  waste ; 
The  mountains  and  the  passes,  too, 
In  echo  would  they  answer  you, 
The  sound  of  the  bitch's  bay  at  view 

To  the  rough  dog's  noise  resounded ; 
Driving  them  from  the  summits  down 
To  pools  which  they  will  never  sound. 
Where  they  will  lie,  the  waves  around, 
A  floundering  and  wounded. 
195 


ORAN  DO  CHEILE 

'S  na  cuileanan  gu  fulasgach 
'Gan  cumail  air  na  muinealaibh, 
'S  nach  urrainn  iad  dol  tuilleadh  as, 

Ach  fuireach,  's  bhi  gun  deo  annt\        *       550 
Is  ged  a  thuirt  mi  beagan  riu, 
Mu'n  innsinn  uir  an  dleasdanas  orra, 
Chuireadh  iad  am  bhreislich  mi 

Le  deismireachd  chomhraidh ! 


ORAN  DA  CHEILE  NUADH-POSTE. 

A  Mhairi  bhan  6g,  's  tu  ""n  oigh  th'air  m'aire, 

Ri'm  bheo  bhi  far  am  bithinn  fhein ; 
O'n  fhuair  mi  ort  coir  cho  mor  's  bu  mhath  leam, 

Le  posadh  ceangailt'  o'n  chleir ; 
Le  cumhnanta  teann  \s  le  banntaibh  daingean, 

'S  le  snaim  a  dh'fhanas,  nach  treig : 
'S  e  t'  fhaotainn  air  laimh  le  gradh  gach  caraid 

Rinn  slainte  mhaireann  am  chre. 


■*N  uair  bha  mi  gu  tinn  's  mi  'n  cinnseal  leannain, 

Gun  chinnt  co  theannadh  rium  fhein,  10 

'S  ann  a  chunna'  mi  'n  oigh  air  bord  tigh-leanna, 

'S  bu  mhothar  ceanalt*  a  beus ; 
Tharruing  mi  suas  ria  's  fhuair  mi  gealladh 

O'n  ghruagaich  bhanail  bhi  'm  reir ; 
'S  mise  bha  aobhach  f'  fhaotainn  mar  rium,  15 

'S  crodh-laoigh  a'  bharain  ad  dheidh. 
196 


J 


< 


SONG  TO  HIS  WIFE 

The  young  hounds  with  activity 
Holding  them  by  the  necks  will  be, 
And  they  must  bide,  nor  more  be  free, 

Nor  in  them  animation. 
Though  something  I  have  said  of  them, 
Ere  all  that's  due  IVe  made  of  them. 
They'd  send  me  raving  mad  of  whim 

With  intricate  narration. 


SONG  TO   HIS   NEWLY   WEDDED   WIFE. 

O  FAIR  young  Marie,  thou's  the  maid  I'm  intending 

To  be  where  I  am  while  I  live ; 
For  I've  got  claim  on  thee  as  much  as  I'm  minding. 

And  wedlock  by  clergy  can  give ; 
With  many  a  tight  band  and  firm  stipulations 

And  a  knot  that  abides  nor  will  yield  : 
Getting  thee  by  the  hand  with  the  love  of  relations 

My  frame  with  well-being  has  filled. 

When  I  was  in  despair  and  for  a  mate  zealous. 
But  not  knowing  who  would  take  me, 
l^b  then  saw  the  fair  at  the  bench  of  an  alehouse, 
^^B     Her  way  it  was  mild  mannerly ; 
I^KA  promise  I  had  when  I  paid  my  addresses, 
I^B    The  damsel  demure  would  be  mine ; 
^RTwas  I  that  was  glad  making  sure  thy  embraces, 
Hp    As  well  as  the  steward's  calving  kine. 

.97 


ORAN  DO  CHEILE 

Maduinn  Di-luain,  ge  buan  an  t-slighe, 

'N  uair  ghluais  mi,  ruithinn  mar  ghaoth, 
A  dh'  fhaicinn  mo  luaidh  's  rud  uainn  'nar  dithisd 

Nach  dual  da  rithisd  gu'n  sgaoil.  20 

Thug  mi  i  'n  uaigneas  uair  a  bhruidhinn, 

'S  ann  fhuair  an  nighean  mo  ghaol, 
Is  chluinneadh  mo  chluas  an  fhuaim  a  bhitheadh 

Aig  luathas  mo  chridhe  ri  m'  thaobh. 

Sin  'n  uair  chuir  Cupid  an  t-ultach  am  bhroilleach,      25 

D'a  shaighdean  corranach,  caol, 
A  dhruidh  air  mo  chuislean,  chuir  luchd  air  mo  cholainn, 

Leis  an  do  thuit  mi  ge  b'oil  leam  's  gu''n  d'aom. 
Dh'innis  mi  sgeul  do'n  te  rinn  m"*  acain, 

Nach  leigh  a  chaisgeadh  mo  ghaoid  ;  30 

'S  e  leighis  gach  creuchd  i  fhein  le  feartan 

Theachd  reidh  am  ghlacaibh  mar  shaoil. 

Bheirinn  mo  phog  do'n  6g-mhnaoi  shomult' 

A  dh'  fhas  gu  boinneanta,  caoin, 
Gu  mileanf,  comhnard,  seocail,  foinneamh,  35 

Do  chomhradh  gheibh  mi  gu  saor. 
Tha  mi  air  sheol  gu  leoir  ad  chomain, 

A"*  bhdid  's  a  chuir  thu  gu  faoin : 
Do  m"*  smaointean  gorach,  prois  nam  boireannach, 

'S  coir  dhomh  fuireach  le  h-aon.  40 


Chaidh  mi  do'n  choill  an  robh  croinn  is  gallain, 
Bu  bhoisgeil  sealladh  mu'n  cuairt, 

"•S  bha  miann  mo  shul  do  dh'fliiuran  barraicht' 
An  dluthas  nam  meanganan  suas ; 
198 


SONG  TO  HIS  WIFE 

On  Monday  at  dawn,  though  longsome  the  way  was, 

I  ran  like  the  wind,  when  I  started, 
To  visit  my  own,  and  what  all  "'tween  us  twae  was 

Won't  likely  again  be  imparted. 
I  took  her  away  for  an  hour's  conversation, 

And  then  fell  in  love  with  my  bride, 
And  my  ear  would  betray  to  my  own  trepidation 

My  heart's  pit-a-pat  at  my  side. 

When  Cupid  addressed  at  my  breast  his  full  measure 

Of  slender  shafts  pointed  to  slay. 
They  my  arteries  pressed,  on  my  body  put  pressure, 

I  spite  of  me  fell  and  gave  way. 
A  tale  did  I  tell  to  the  lass  caused  my  passion. 

No  leech  with  my  sore  could  have  coped ; 
Each  wound  she'd  make  well,  if,  in  virtue's  fair  fashion, 

She  came  to  my  arms  as  I  hoped. 

My  kiss  I  would  press  on  my  comely  young  woman 

Who  gentle  has  grown  up,  and  fair. 
With  elegant  grace,  so  tall  and  becoming, 

Thy  converse  with  freedom  I'll  share. 
Indebted  enough  in  a  way  I'm  becoming 

For  the  vow  thou  didst  artlessly  pay  : 
To  my  foolish  thoughts,  the  conceit  of  the  women — 

With  one  'tis  my  duty  to  stay. 

To  the  wood  did  I  hie  where  trees  were  and  planting, 

A  dazzling  sight  all  around, 
'Twas  the  wish  of  mine  eye  for  a  young  sapling,  flaunting 

In  thick  of  the  branches  it  crowned ; 

199 


ORAN  DO  CHEILE 

Geug  fo  bhlath  o  barr  gu  talamh,  45 

A  lub  mi  farasda  nuas  ; 
Bu  duilich  do  chach  gu  brath  a  gearradh, 

'S  e  'n  dan  domh  'm  faillean  a  bhuain. 

Shuidhich  mi  lion  air  fior-uisg  tana, 

'S  mi  strigh  'ga  tharruing  air  bruaich,  50 

'S  thug  mi  le  sgriob  air  tir  a'  ghealag, 

'S  a  li  mar  eaP  air  a'  chuan. 
'S  toilichf  a  dh'fhag  e  'n  la  sin  m'  aigne, 

An  roinn  a  bh'  agam  'san  uair ; 
B'i  coimeas  mo  cheud  nihna  reult  na  maidne,  55 

Mo  cheile  cadail  's  mi  'm  shuain. 

'S  e  V  fhasan  leat  riamh  bhi  ciallach,  banail, 

Ri  gniomh,  's  ri  ceanal  mna-uaisP ; 
Gu  pairteach,  baidheil,  blath,  gun  choire, 

Gun  ghiomh,  gun  ghainne,  gun  chruas ;  60 

Gu  deirceach,  daonntach,  faoilidh,  farasd', 

Ri  daoine  fanna,  bochd,  truagh; 
Is  tha  mi  le  d'  sheol  an  dochas  ro  mhath, 

Gur  Ion  do  t'  anara  do  dhuais. 

Chuir  mi  air  thus  ort  iul  is  aithne,  65 

Le  sugradh  ceanalta,  suairc, 
'N  uair  theannainn  riut  dluth,  bu  chubhraidh  t'  anail 

Na  ubhlan  meala  'gam  buain : 
Cha  bhiodh  sgeul-ruin,  a  b'iul  domh  aithris, 

A  b'  fhiu,  nach  mealladh  i  uam  ;  70 

Na'n  cuireadh  i  cul  rium  's  diultadh  baileach, 

Bu  chuis  domh  anart  is  uaigh. 


SONG  TO  HIS  WIFE 

A  branch  with  blooms  full  from  tip  to  earth  at  her, 

Which  I  bent  easily  down  ; 
For  any  to  cull  it  were  aye  a  hard  matter — 

My  lot  the  young  tree  to  discrown. 

With  a  net  that  I  placed  on  shallow  fresh  water, 

And  struggled  to  draw  to  the  lea, 
The  grilse  I  embraced,  with  a  sweep  to  land  brought  her, 

Her  sheen  like  a  swan  on  the  sea. 
With  pleasure  upborne  that  day  left  my  nature, 

The  portion  I  then  had  to  keep, 
The  star  of  the  morn  is  my  spouse  in  each  feature, 

My  partner  in  dreams  while  I  sleep. 

Thy  fashion  was  aye  to  be  womanly,  sensible, 

A  lady  in  nature  and  deed. 
Warm,  liberal,  gay,  with  nought  reprehensible. 

Blemish,  or  meanness,  or  greed ; 
Generous,  easy,  humane  in  donation 

To  poor  men,  weak,  and  wretched ; 
And  with  this  thy  way  I'm  in  best  expectation 

That  health  to  thy  soul  is  thy  meed. 

'Twas  then  I  thee  knew,  and  thou  earliest  saw  me. 

In  kind  and  affectionate  wooing. 
When  near  thee  I  drew,  thy  breath  it  was  balmy, 

Like  honey  sweet  apples  at  pu'ing : 
And  not  a  love  lay  in  my  deep  recollection 

Was  worth,  but  she  from  me  would  have ; 
Did  she  now  turn  away  to  my  utter  rejection. 

My  case  would  be  linen  and  grave. 


OKAN  DO  CHEILE 

Do  bhriodal  blath  's  do  mhanran  milis, 

Do  nadur  grinneas  gach  uair, 
Gu  beulchair,  gaireach,  alainn,  caoimhneil,  75 

Gun  chas  a  thoilleadh  dhuit  fuath ; 
Chuir  i  guin  bhais  fad  raith'  am  mhuineal 

Dh'fhag  Ian  mi  mhulad  's  a  ghruaim, 
'N  uair  thuig  i  mar  bha,  's  a  thar  mi  'n  ulaidh, 

Ghrad  sparr  i  'n  cunnart  ud  uam.  80 

'S  ann  thog  e  mi  'm  pris  o^n  tim  so  'n  uiridh, 

An  ni  'san  urrainn  a  fhuair, 
Sguab  do'n  ire  fhior-ghlain  chruineachd, 

An  siol  as  urramaich'  buaidh. 
Sin  na  chuir  mi  cho  riomhach  umad,  85 

Bha  V  inntinn  bunailteach,  buan : 
Lionadh  do  sgiamhachd  miann  gach  duine, 

An  dreach,  fiamh,  an  cumachd,  's  an  snuadh. 

Do  chuach-fhalt  ban  air  fas  cho  barrail, 

'S  a  bharr  Ian  chamag  is  dhual ;  90 

T'  aghaidh  ghlan,  mhalda,  narach,  bhanail, 

Do  dha  chaol  mhala  gun  ghruaim ; 
Suil  ghorm,  liontach,  mhin-rosg,  mheallach, 

Gun  dith  cur  faP  ann  do  ghruaidh, 
Deud  geal  iobhraidh,  dionach,  daingean,  95 

Beul  bith  nach  canadh  ach  stuaim. 

Shiubhladh  tu  fasach  airigh  gUnne 

'S  an  ait  an  cinneadh  an  spreidh, 
G'am  bleoghainn  mu  chro,  's  bhi  choir  na  h-innis, 

Laoigh  og  a*"  mireadh  's  a'  leum ;  100 


202 


SONG  TO  HIS  WIFE 

Thy  caressing  warm,  thy  crooning  delicious, 

Thy  nature's  attraction  each  hour, 
Thy  fair  spoken  charm,  kind,  smiHng,  propitious 

No  trait  thee  with  hatred  would  dower ; 
She  made  a  death  wound  in  my  neck  an  ell  measure 

Me  left  full  of  gloom  and  distressed, 
How  it  was  when  she  found,  and  I  drew  near  the  treasure. 

That  danger  at  once  she  redressed. 

It  raised  me  in  wealth  since  this  time  a  year  past, 

Fve  gotten  the  best  that  could  be, 
A  sweep  from  the  spilth  of  the  purest  wheat  harvest, 

The  seed  of  the  best  quality. 
And  that  did  instil  in  me  such  admiration. 

Thy  steadfast  and  constant  affection  : 
Thy  beauty  would  fill  all  men's  imagination 

In  aspect,  hue,  shape,  and  complexion. 

Thy  bonny  coiled  hair  grown  abundant  uncommonly. 

The  top  full  of  ringlets  and  curls. 
Thy  face  gentle  fair,  so  modest  and  womanly. 

Two  slender  eyebrows — no  churls ; 
A  blue  and  fine  eye,  full-opened,  alluring. 

No  need  to  put  bloom  on  thy  cheek. 
Teeth  white  ivory,  close-set  and  enduring. 

Quiet  mouth  nought  immodest  would  speak. 

In   the   lone   sheiling   glen,   thou   would    tread   grassy 
Highlands, 
The  place  where  the  cattle  would  grow. 
To  milk  them  round  pen,  and  near  to  the  islands, 
Where  sporting  young  calves  leaping  go ; 

203 


ORAN  DO  CHEILE 

Cha  mhiosa  do  lamh  's  tu  laimh  ri  coinnil 

N'  an  seomar  soilleir  ri  grein, 
A'  fuaigheal  's  a"'  faitheam  bhan  is  phionar. 

An  am  chur  grinnis  air  greus. 

Do  chneas  mar  an  eiteag  gle  ghlan,  fallain,  105 

Corp  seang  mar  chanach  an  t-sleibh' ; 
Do  bhraigh  cho-mhin,  's  do  chiochan  corrach 

'S  iad  liontach,  soluist  le  cheiP : 
Gairdeana  tlath,  geal  lamh  na  h-ainnir, 

Caol  mheoir,  glac  thana,  bas  reidh  ;  110 

Calpa  deas  ur,  troigh  dhluth  'm  broig  chuimir, 

Is  luthor,  innealta  ceum. 

'S  ann  fhuair  mi  bhean  chaoin  aig  taobh  Mham-charaidh 

'S  a  gaol  a'm**  mhealladh  o'm  cheill ; 
Bha  cridhe  dhomh  saor,  'n  uair  dh''fhaod  mi  tharruing,  115 

Cha  b'fhaoin  domh  bharail  bhi  'd  reir : 
^S  ioma  fuil  uasal,  uaibhreach,  fharumach, 

Suas  ri  d'  cheann-aghaidh  fhein, 
'Gad  chumail  am  pris  an  Righ  's  MacCailein 

'S  tu  shiol  nam  fear  a  bha  'n  Sleibht\  120 

Na'm  faighinn  an  drasd'  do  charamh  daingean 

An  aite  falaich  o*'n  eug ; 
Ged  thigeadh  e  'd  dhail,  is  m**  fhagail  falamh 

Cha  b"*  aill  learn  bean  eiP  ad  dheidh  : 
Cha  toir  mi  gu  brath  dhuit  dranndan  teallaich,  125 

Mu'n  ardaich  aileag  do  chleibh, 
Ach  rogha  gach  manrain,  gradh,  is  furan, 

Cho  blath  's  a  b'urrainn  mo  bheul. 
204 


SONG  TO  HIS  WIFE 

Not  worse  is  thy  hand,  and  thou  close  to  a  candle, 

Or  in  a  room  bright  as  the  day. 
To  sew  and  hem  band,  and  the  pinnies  to  handle, 

When  working  at  embroidery. 

Like  the  pebble  stone  white  is  thy  skin  pure  and  sound, 

A  slim  frame  like  the  down  'mong  the  heather ; 
Thy  neck  soft  and  slight,  thy  pointed  breasts  round. 

The  twain  full  and  shining  together : 
A  tender  soft  arm,  white  hand  of  the  virgin, 

A  thin  clasp,  smooth  palm,  fingers  long. 
Clean  calf  fresh  in  form,  feet  in  well-fitting  brogue  shoon, 

A  step  that  is  dainty  and  strong. 

I  found  a  kind  bride  beside  Mam  Charaidh, 

Her  love  wiles  me  out  of  my  min' ; 
Thy  heart  all  untried,  when  I  might  come  marry, 

No  vain  thought  for  me  to  be  thine : 
And  much  noble  bold  and  blue  blood  is  welling 

To  thy  forehead,  rushing  in  spate. 
Thee  in  worth  to  uphold  with  the  King  and  MacCailin, 

Thou  scion  of  dwellers  in  Sleat. 

Now  could  I  procure  thee  a  safe  situation 

From  death  in  a  sure  hiding  place. 
If  he  did  thee  secure,  leaving  me  desolation. 

No  wife  after  thee  I'd  embrace : 
At  hearth  I'll  ne'er  fling  thee  snarl  distressing. 

Lest  sobs  in  thy  frame  should  arise. 
But  choice  of  fondling,  of  love  and  caressing, 

As  warm  as  my  mouth  could  devise. 

205 


ORAN  DO  LEANABH-ALTROM 

Dheanainn  duit  ceann,  is  crann,  is  t-earrach. 

An  am  chur  ghearran  an  eill ;  130 

Is  dheanainn  mar  chach  air  traigh  na  mara, 

Chur  aird  air  mealladh  an  eisg : 
Mharbhainn  duit  geoidh  is  roin,  is  eala, 

'S  na  h-eoin  air  bharra  nan  geug ; 
'S  cha  bhi  thu  ri  d'  bheo  gun  seol  air  aran,  135 

'S  mi  chomhnuidh  far  am  bi  feidh. 


ORAN  DO  LEANABH-ALTROM. 

IsEABAL  6g  an  or-fhuilt  bhuidhe, 
Do  ghruaidh  mar  ros,  's  do  phog  mar  ubhal, 
Do  bheul  dreachmhor,  meachair,  grinn, 
O'm  faighte  na  h-6rain  cheolmhor,  bhinn. 

'S  tu  's  glaine  's  as  cannaiche  banaile  snuadh,  5 

Gur  deirge  na'n  t-subhag  an  rudha  tha  'd  ghruaidh, 
Do  mhin  rosg  liontach,  siobhalt,  suairc, 
Gnuis  mhalda,  narach,  Ian  de  stuaim. 

■"S  e  coslas  na  h-ainnir  an  eaP  air  an  t-snamh, 

Do  chneas  mar  an  canach  cho  ceanalta  thlath,  10 

Do  chiochan  corrach  air  bhroilleach  geal,  ban, 

Do  bhraigh  mar  ghrian,  's  do  bhian  mar  chnaimh. 

Do  chuach-fhalt  bachallach,  cas-bhuidhe,  dluth, 

Gu  h-amlagach,  daithte,  Ian  chaisreag  is  lub, 

'Na  chiabhanaibh  cleachdach  am  pleatadh  gu  dluth,         15 

Air  sniomh  gu  leir  mar  theudan  ciuil. 

2o6 


SONG  TO  A  FOSTER-CHILD 

Thy  goodman  I'd  be,  I'd  plow,  sow  for  thee,  sure, 

At  time  to  put  colts  into  leash  ; 
And  rd  more  do  for  thee,  like  all  else  on  the  sea-shore. 

Set  means  for  deceiving  the  fish  : 
I'd  kill  geese  for  thee,  the  swan  and  the  seal, 

And  the  birds  on  the  tops  of  the  boughs ; 
While  thou  lives  thou'lt  ne'er  be  without  means  for  a  meal, 

And  me  living  where  red-deer  will  browse. 


SONG  TO  A  FOSTER-CHILD. 

Young  Isabel  of  the  yellow  gold  hair 
Like  an  apple  thy  kiss,  like  a  rose  thy  cheek  fair ; 
Thy  mouth  it  is  shapely,  tender,  and  neat. 
Whence  do  the  songs  come,  musical,  sweet. 

Thou'rt  the  purest,  the  prettiest,  in  mien  the  most  meek, 
Than  the  berry  is  redder  the  blush  on  thy  cheek ; 
Thy  fine  eye,  full,  frank,  pleasing  to  see ; 
Mild  features  and  bashful,  filled  with  modesty. 

The  maiden's  compare  is  the  white  floating  swan. 
Thy  skin  like  moor-cotton,  soft,  tender  as  down, 
On  fair  and  white  bosom  thy  pointed  breasts  be, 
Thy  neck  like  the  sun,  and  thy  skin  ivory. 

Thy  coiled  hair  is  ringleted,  yellow  curled,  close. 
Twisted  round,  and  fair  coloured,  full  of  whorls  and  bows, 
In  filleted  locks,  with  the  plaiting  so  thick, 
And  twined  all  together,  like  strains  of  music. 

207 


ORAN  DO  LEANABH-ALTROM 

""S  ioma  fuil  uasal  gun  truailleadh,  gun  tair, 

Tha  togail  ^na  stuadhanaibh  suas  ann  ad  bharr, 

Clann  Domhnuill  a'  chruadail  fhuair  buaidh  anns  gach 

blar, 
Gus  an  tain'  an  la  suarach  thug  uath'  an  deas  lamh.        20 

'S  ban-Chaimbeulach  dhireach  an  ribhinn  dheas  6g, 
Cha  striochdadh  do  dhilsean  do  luchd-mi-ruin  tha  beo ; 
'S  gach  car  tha  dol  diotsa  'gad  shior-chur  am  moid, 
'S  thu  theaghlach  an  larla,  Shliochd  Dhiarmaid  nan  srol. 


Tha  cinneadh  do  sheanmhar  mor  ainmeil  gu  leoir,  25 

Na  Camshronaich  mheanmnach  bu  gharg  air  an  toir ; 
'S  iomadh  ait  anns  na  dhearbh  iad  le  fear-ghleus  an  dorn, 
Bhi  marbhtach  le'n  armachd  air  dearganaich  Dheors'. 


'S  i  'n  ainnir  bu  taitnich'  a  bh'  ac'  anns  an  tir, 

A  thachair  bhi  agam  'ga  h-altrom  le  cich  ;  30 

'N  uair  a  sheasas  i  fathast  air  Faidhir  an  Righ, 

Bidh  iomadh  fear-fearainn  a'  farraid — "  Co  i  ?  " 

Gruagach  gheal,  shorn ulta,  shoilleir  gu  leoir, 
'S  i  finealta,  foinneamh,  gun  chromadh,  gun  sgeop ; 
Calpa  deas,  coslach  a  choisicheadh  rod,  35 

'S  troigh  chuimir,  shocair,  nach  dochainn  a'  bhrog. 

'S  maith  thig  dhuit  'san  fhasan  gun  daithte  de'n  t-srol, 

Le  staidhs  'ga  theannadh  cho  daingean  's  bu  choir 

Fainneachan  daoimein  air  roinn  gach  meoir 

Bidh  rufies  is  ribein  air  Iseabail  oig.  40 

2o8 


SONG  TO  A  FOSTER-CHILD 

And  much  noble  blood,  with  no  slur,  but  renown, 

Is  mounting  in  waves  up  there  to  thy  crown, 

0'  the  valiant  Clan  Donald,  who  all  fields  could  command, 

Till  the  wretched  day  dawned  that  denied  the  right  hand. 


She's  a  straight  Campbell  maiden,  the  quean  young  and 

free. 
Thy  kin  never  yielded  to  unfriends  that  be. 
And   each    turn  thou  goest  mends  thy  means  and  thy 

manners 
Since  thou'rt  of  th'  Earl's  family,  seed  o'  Diarmid  o'  the 

banners. 

Thy  grandmother's  kin  is  great,  famous  enough — 

The  bold  Camerons,  who  in  pursuit  were  rough, 

Many's  the  place  where  they  proved,  by  good  use  of  their 

hands. 
With  their  arms  to  be  fatal  to  George's  red  bands. 

She's  the  pleasantest  maiden  they  had  in  the  West, 
That  chanced  to  be  with  me  a-nursing  at  breast ; 
When  yet  she  shall  stand  at  the  Fair  of  the  King, 
Lairds  there  will  be  many  "  Who's  she  ?  "  enquiring. 

A  fair  and  plump  maiden  and  radiant  enough. 
She  is  gentle,  refined,  with  no  stooping,  no  bluff; 
A  seemly  shaped  calf  which  would  traverse  a  road 
And  a  neat  easy  foot,  the  shoe  won't  incommode. 

Well  becomes  thee  in  fashion,  fresh  coloured  silk  gown, 

With  stays,  as  is  fitting,  tight  fastening  around ; 

Diamond  rings  on  each  finger's  division,  and  well 

Will  sit  ruffles  and  ribbons  on  young  Isabel. 

209  o 


ORAN  GAOIL 


ORAN  GAOIL. 

A  Mhairi  bhan  gur  barrail  thu, 

'S  gur  barraichf  air  gach  seol  thu, 
O'n  thug  mi  gaol  cho  daingean  duit, 

'S  mi  't  fharraid  anns  gach  comhdhail : 
'S  earbsach  mi  ad  cheanaltas,  5 

'S  na  fhuair  mi  chean'  ad  chomhradh, 
Nach  urrainn  each  do  mhealladh  uam 

'N  deis  do  gheallaidh  dhomh-sa. 

'S  chuala  mi  mar  shean-fhacal 

Mu'n  darach,  gur  fiodh  corr  e,  10 

'S  gur  geinn  dheth  fhein  'ga  theannachadh 

A  spealtadh  e  'na  oirdnibh : 
■"S  mi  'n  duil,  a  reir  na  h-ealaidh  sin, 

Gur  maith  leat  mi  bhi  'd  sheorsa, 
Nach  treig  thu  mi,  's  gu*'m  faigh  mi  thu  15 

Le  bannaibh  daingean  posaidh. 

'S  e  chum  an  raoir  mi  'm  aithreachadh 

An  speis  a  ghabh  mi  6g  dhiot ; 
Bha  smaointean  trie  air  m'  aire-sa 

Mu'n  ainnir  as  fhearr  foghlum :  20 

Cha  n'eil  eron  r''a  aireamh  ort, 

O  d"  bharr  gu  sail  do  bhroige, 
Aeh  ciallaeh,  fialaidh,  fabharach. 

Air  fiamh  do  ghaire  'n  comhnuidh. 

210 


LOVE  SONG 


LOVE  SONG. 

0  Mary,  fair  beyond  compare, 
Thou  virtues  all  completing, 

Since  IVe  loved  thee  so  steadfastly. 
And  ask  thee  at  each  meeting : 

My  trust  I  place  in  thy  kind  grace. 
And  talk  that  me  delighted. 

That  none  thee  can  from  me  trepan 
Since  truth  to  me  thou  plighted. 

And  as  a  proverb  I  have  heard 

Of  oak,  the  finest  timber. 
Its  own  wedge  it  doth  tightly  fit, 

And  splinter  it  to  lumber : 

1  hope  according  to  that  lore 

Thou'lt  as  thy  sort  encourage. 
And  not  forsake  me  till  I  take  thee 
In  strong  bands  of  maiTiage. 

Last  night  me  kept  that  scarce  I  slept 

My  young  love  for  thee  yearning ; 
And  thoughts  recur  to  mind  of  her 

The  maiden  best  in  learning : 
There's  nought  of  blame  on  thee  to  name 

From  crown  to  heel  whatever  ; 
But  frank,  and  kind,  and  well-inclined. 

Thou  blythely  smilest  ever. 

211 


ORAN  GAOIL 

'S  do  chul  daithte  lan-mhaiseach  25 

Mu'n  cuairt  ad  bhraigh  'n  ordugh, 
Air  sniomh,  mar  theudan  clarsaiche, 

'Na  fhainneachaibh  glan  nosar : 
Gu  li-dhonn,  pleatach,  sar-chleachdach, 

Gu  dosach,  fasmhor,  domhail,  30 

Gu  lubach,  dualach,  bachlach,  guairsgeach, 

Snasmhor,  cuachach,  6r-bhuidh\ 

Tha  V  aghaidh  narach  bhanail, 

Da  chaol  mhala  mar  if  eoin  ort ; 
Rosga  reidhe,  fallaine,  36 

'S  da  shuil  ghorm,  mheallach,  mhothar : 
Do  ghruaidh  mar  chaorann  meangain, 

A  thug  barrachd  air  na  rosan ; 
Do  dheud  geal,  dreachmhor,  raeachair,  grinn 

'S  do  bheul  o  'm  binn  thig  oran.  40 

Tha  do  phog  mar  ubhlan  garaidh, 

'S  tha  do  bhraigh  mar  an  neoinean ; 
Do  chiochan  liontach,  mulanach, 

'S  an  siod"*  'gan  cumail  comhnard : 
Corp  seang,  geal,  gneadhail,  furanach,  45 

Deagh  chumachdail,  neo-sporsail ; 
Do  chalpa  cruinne,  luthora, 

'S  an  troigh  nach  lub  am  feoirnean. 

'S  e  'm  fath  mu'm  biodh  tu  talach  orm, 

Gur  ro  bheag  leat  mo  storas ;  50 

Bha  da-rud-dheug  a"*  tarruing  uam 
Na  thionail  mi  do  phorsan : 

212 


LOVE  SONG 

Thy  sunny  curls  in  beauteous  twirls 

Around  thy  neck  in  order, 
In  twist  and  warp  like  strings  of  harp 

In  ringlets  bright  disorder : 
All  glossy  brown,  plaited,  fine  woven, 

Rippling,  fairgrown,  unholden. 
In  locks,  and  loops,  and  bends,  and  hoops, 

Neat,  cupshaped,  yellow-golden. 

Thy  face  is  shy  and  womanly. 

Brows  featherlike  and  slender ; 
Eyelashes  smooth  and  healthy  both, 

Blue  eyes  attractive,  tender : 
Thy  cheeks,  like  rowan  on  a  bough. 

Surpassed  the  roses  blowing; 
White  teeth  complete,  shapely  and  neat ; 

Mouth  whence  sweet  song  comes  flowing. 

Like  apple  flavour  thy  kiss'  savour, 

Thy  neck  is  like  the  daisy ; 
Thy  breasts  full  white,  and  conelike  quite. 

The  silk  upbears  them  easy : 
Frame  fair  and  active,  kind,  attractive 

Well-shaped,  unpretending : 
Thy  calves  are  round,  and  strong,  and  sound ; 

A  foot  the  grass  not  bending. 

It  is  the  cause  thou'd  me  dispraise, 
Too  small  thou  deem'st  my  fortune ; 

But  things  a  dozen  did  from  me  cosen 
What  I'd  scraped  as  a  portion : 
213 


ORAN  GAOIL 

Bhiodh  61  is  feisd,  is  banais  ann ; 

Bha  ceol,  is  beus,  is  ceannaichean, 
An  fheill,  's  na  gibhte  leannanachd,  55 

An  amaideachd  's  an  oige. 

'S  a  nis  na  'm  faighinn  mar  rium  thu, 

Cha  leanainn  air  an  t-seol  sin  ; 
Gu'n  deanainn  aiteach  fearainn, 

Is  crodh-bainne  chur  mu  chro  dhuit ;  60 

Mharbhainn  iasg  na  mara  dhuit, 

'S  am  fiadh  's  a"*  bhealach  cheothar, 
Le  gunna  caol  nach  mearachdaich, 

■•S  a  mhealladh  fear  na  croice. 

'S  mdr  an  gaol  a  ghabh  mi  ort  65 

Le  ro  bheagan  at  eolas, 
'S  mi  'n  duil  gur  tu  bu  leannan  domh, 

'S  nach  mealladh  tu  mi  'm  dhochas ; 
Ged  bhiodh  am  bas  an  caraibh  dhomh, 

Gun  bharail  ri  tighinn  beo  uaith,  70 

'S  e  dh'fhagadh  slan  mi  ""n  ribhinn  mhalda, 

Mairi  bhan  o  Loch-lairig. 


214 


LOVE  SONG 

Drink  there  would  be,  bridal  and  spree ; 

Twas  music,  custom,  present. 
The  fair's  unthrifts,  sweethearting  gifts, 

In  youth  and  folly  pleasant. 

Now  could  I  get  thee  as  my  mate, 

That  course  I  would  not  hold  to ; 
The  land  Fd  take  to  cultivate. 

And  milch  kine  put  in  fold,  too ; 
rd  kill  for  thee  fish  of  the  sea. 

The  deer  in  misty  hollow, 
With  slender  piece  that  will  not  miss. 

But  foil  the  antlered  fellow. 

And  great  my  love  for  thee  did  prove, 

Though  knowing  thee  but  slightly ; 
I  hoped  thou'd  be  sweetheart  to  me. 

Nor  treat  my  longing  lightly ; 
Though  death  should  be  in  grips  with  me 

With  no  hope  that  he'd  spare  me, 
I  healed  had  been  by  the  gentle  quean, 

Loch-lairig's  fairhaired  Mary. 


215 


ORAN  SUGRAIDH 


ORAN  SUGRAIDH. 

LUINNEAG. 

''S  i  7iighean  mo  ghaoil. 
An  nighean  donn  hg ; 
Na'm  biodh  tu  ri  tyC  thaohh, 

Cha  bhithinn  Jo  hhrbn. 
''S  i  nighean  mo  ghaoil,  6 

An  nighean  donn  bg. 
'S  I  Mairi  Nic  Neachdainn 
Is  daicheile  pearsa, 
Ghabh  mis'  uiread  bheachd  ort 

Ri  neach  a  tha  beo.  10 

'aS*  i  nighean  mo  ghaoil,  4"c. 

'N  uair  sheallas  mi  faodann, 
'S  mi  'n  coiimeamh  ri  t'  fhaotainn, 
Gur  maith  learn  na'm  faodainn 
Bhi  daonnan  ad  choir. 

O'n  a  thug  thu  dhomh  gealladh,  15 

'S  ann  duit-sa  nach  aithreach, 
'S  cha  n-fhaic  iad  thu  'n  ath-bhliadhn' 
Ad  bhanaraich  bho. 

Cha  teid  thu  do'n  bhuaile, 
A  bhleoghainn  cruidh  ghuaill-fhionn  20 

Cha  chuir  thu  ort  cuaran, 
'S  gur  uallach  do  bhrog. 
2x6 


COURTING  SONG 


COURTING  SONG. 

Refrain. 
She^s  the  maid  of  my  love. 

The  young  maid  so  brown ; 
By  my  side  did  thou  move 

I  would  not  be  cast  down. 
She's  the  maid  of  my  love 
The  young  maid  so  brown. 
Mary  MacNaughton's  rarest, 
In  person  the  fairest ; 
Thou  my  thoughts  as  much  sharest 
As  living  ladie. 

She's  the  maid  of  my  love,  i^c. 

When  thy  face  I'm  admiring, 
To  wed  thee  aspiring, 
If  I  might  Tm  desiring 
To  be  aye  beside  thee. 

Since  troth  thou  gave  to  me, 
It  never  shall  rue  thee, 
Next  year  they'll  not  view  thee 
A  cows'  dairymaid. 

Thou'lt  not  go  to  the  wattle. 
Milk  white-shouldered  cattle, 
Nor  in  hide  slipper  trachle, 
Thy  gay  shoe's  well-made. 
217 


ORAN  SUGRAIDH 

Cha  n-fhoghnadh  le  m''  chruinneig, 
A'  bhuarach  no  chuinneag, 
'S  cha  chluinnear  gu'n  cumadh  tu  25 

Cuman  ad  dhorii. 

Cha  teid  thu  Bhad-odhar, 

A  leigeadh  nan  gobhar, 

'S  minn  bheag  as  an  deoghaidh 

'G  an  deoghail  mu'n  chro.  30 

Cha  leig  mi  thu  'n  fhireach 
Thoirt  a'  chruidh  as  an  innis 
Air  eagal  na  gillean 
Bhi  sireadh  do  phog. 

Cha  taobh  thu  duin'-uasal  35 

'S  cha  n-aill  leat  am  buachaill, 
'S  cha  n-fheairrde  fear-fuadain 
Bhi  cruaidh  air  do  thoir. 

Cha  taobh  i  fear  idir, 

Air  eagal  mo  thrioblaid ;  40 

'S  cha  toilich  te  mise 
Ach  ise  le  deoin. 

"S  i  ribhinn  a^  bhaile, 
Tha  sir-thighinn  air  m"*  aire, 
Na*'m  b^  i  rachadh  mar  rium,  45 

Cha  d'fharraid  mi  stor. 

Bheir  mis'  thu  Dhun-eideann 
A  dh'  ionnsachadh  beurla, 
'S  cha  n-fhag  mi  thu  **t  eiginn 

Ri  spreidh  an  fhir  mhoir.  50 

2l8 


COURTING  SONG 

With  my  neat  one  won't  couple 
The  milkpail  or  hobble, 
Unheard  that  thou'lt  trouble 
In  thy  hand  cogue  to  hold. 

Thou  wilt  ne'er  to  Badour 
Goat-milking  go  o'er, 
While  behind  kidlets  cower. 
Suckling  them  round  the  fold. 

I'll  not  let  thee  to  high  land 
Fetch  the  kine  from  the  island, 
Lest  the  lads  thee  beguile,  and 
Seek  kisses  from  thee. 

Not  with  gentle  thou'lt  side, 
Nor  canst  shepherd  abide. 
Nondescript  woe  betide 
In  thy  track  hardily  ! 

To  no  man  she's  easy. 
For  fear  that  she  tease  me ; 
And  no  fair  will  please  me 
But  she  by  her  leave. 

She's  the  belle  of  the  town 
That  my  thoughts  aye  run  on  ; 
And  were  she  with  me  gone. 
For  wealth  I'd  not  ffrieve. 

To  Dunedin  I'll  take  thee 
English-speaking  to  make  thee. 
Nor  in  dire  need  forsake  thee 
With  the  big  farmer's  drove. 
219 


ORAN  SUGRAIDH 

A  nighean  na  gruaige, 
Cha  chreidinn  ort  tuaileas  ; 
O'n  a  tharriiing  mi  suas  riut, 
Cha  n-fhuath  leam  do  sheol. 

'S  e  mheudaich  mo  ghaol  ort  55 

Gu'n  d'  fhas  thu  cho  aobhach, 
'S  gu'n  leumadh  tu  daonnan 
Cho  aotrom  's  na  h-eoin. 

'S  i  'n  togarrach  laghach 

A  thogainn  mar  roghainn,  60 

Na'm  bithinn  a'  tadhal 
'S  an  tigh  am  bi  'n  t-61. 

Gu'm  b'  fheairrde  daoin'-uaisle 
'N  am  thionndadh  nan  cuach  thu, 
A  thoirt  luinneagan-luaidh  dhaibh  65 

Mu'n  cuairt  air  an  stop. 

'S  leat  urram  an  dannsa, 

'S  an  fhiodhull  'na  teann-ruith  ; 

Bu  chridheil  'san  am  thu, 

'S  an  dram  air  a"*  bhord.  70 

'S  tu  fhreagradh  gu  h-innealt' 
Am  feadan  's  an  ribheid, 
A  sheinneadh  gu  fileanta, 
Ruith-leumnaich  ceoil. 

'S  tu  thogadh  mo  spiorad,  75 

""N  uair  a  theid  thu  air  mhireadh, 
Le  d"  cheileiribh  binne, 
'S  le  grinneas  do  bheoil. 

220 


COURTING  SONG 

Lass  of  ringleted  glory, 
I'd  believe  no  ill  story, 
Since  I've  learned  to  adore  thee. 
Thy  manners  I  love. 

What  made  me  more  like  thee 
Is  thou  grew  so  sprightly. 
And  always  frisked  lightly 
As  birds  on  a  tree. 

Tis  my  fair  one  so  charming 
I'd  choose  as  my  darling, 
When  I  would  be  calling 

At  the  house  where  drinks  be. 

Thee  gentles  would  praise 

When  their  cups  they  would  raise, 

Singing  them  fulling  lays 

Round  with  their  stoup  of  wine. 

Oft  thou  dance  honours  scored 
To  the  fiddle's  brisk  chord. 
With  the  dram  on  the  board 
Thou'd  with  heartiness  shine. 

Finely  thou  answered 
To  the  chanter  and  reed, 
Which,  with  allegro  speed. 
Played  sweetly  and  smooth. 

Thou  my  spirits  would  raise. 
When  thou'lt  take  to  bright  ways, 
With  thy  sweet  warbling  lays. 
And  the  charm  of  thy  mouth. 

221 


ORAN  DO  CHAORA 

Leis  iia  ghabh  mi  de  cheisd  ort, 
Am  maduinn  's  am  feasgar,  80 

Gu'n  deanainn  riut  cleasachd 
Is  beadradh  gu  leoir  : 

Dheanainn  riut  furan 
Am  bliadhn"'  is  an  uiridh ; 
Bq  docha  na  'n  t-uireasbhuidh,  85 

Tuilleadh  's  a  choir. 

■iiiU  \H&\  f,K'. 


ORAN  DO  CHAORA  A  FHUARADH  A'GHIBHT  O 
MHNAOI  UASAIL  ARAIDH. 

LuiNNEAG. 

Hem  o  ho  io,  ho  ro  chaora  cheann-fhionn^ 

Hem  o,  ho  io 
'S  a'  chaora  fhuair  mi  o  Shiusaidh, 
Gun  an  cuinn  a  dhol  g''a  ceannach  : 

Hem  0,  ho  io,  Sfc. 

Gu'm  bu  slan  do'*n  t-sar  mhnaoi-uasail,  5 

0''n  d''fhuaradh  a'  chaora  cheann-fhionn. 

Cuimhnichidh  mi  do  dheoch-slainte 
'S  a  h-uir  ait  an  61  mi  drama. 

Chaora  thainig  a  Coir'-uanain, 

Pairt  d'a  suanaich  mar  an  canach,  10 

Bha  cuid  dhith  air  dath  na  carnaid, 
'S  cuid  eile  mar  bharr  a^  bhealaidh. 

222 


SONG  TO  A  EWE 

With  the  love  that  I  lo'e  thee 
At  morn  and  at  gloaming, 
Sport  enough  I  would  show  thee 
And  fondling  galore. 

Thee  I'd  welcome  with  pleasure, 
For  last  year  and  this  year ; 
Better  far  than  scant  measure 
Enough  is  and  more. 


SONG  TO  A  EWE  WHICH  WAS  RECEIVED 
AS  A  GIFT  FROM  A  CERTAIN  LADY. 

Lay. 

Hem  o,  ho  io,  ho  ro,  the  white-headed  ewe, 

Hem  o,  ho  to. 
The  ewe  from  Susie  which  I  got, 
A  coin  to  buy  her  I  spent  not : 

Hem  o,  ho  io,  SfC. 

Health  be  the  excellent  lady's  lot. 

From  whom  the  white-faced  ewe  was  got. 

I  shall  remember  to  pledge  thee 
Wherever  drinking  drams  I'll  be. 

The  ewe  in  Coire  Uanan  grown, 
Part  of  her  fleece  was  like  the  down. 

A  part  o'  her  was  carnation  bloom. 
Another  like  the  crop  o'  the  broom. 

223 


ORAN  DO  CHAORA 

'S  ann  bu  choslach  ris  an  t-sioda, 
Caora  mhin  nan  casa  geala. 

'S  iomadh  cuileag  chun  an  iasgaich,  15 

Thainig  riamh  as  a  cul  cannach. 

Cungaidh  mhaith  nam  breacan  daora 
Anns  a  h-uile  taobh  d'a  falluing. 

Cuiridh  iad  i  air  na  cladaibh, 

'S  alainn  i  'n  uair  theid  a  tarruins:.  20 

'S  i  bu  mholaiche  na'n  lion 

'S  fhearr  tha  cinntinn  aig  na  Gallaibh. 

Bhiodh  aice  da  uan  ^s  a'  bhliadhna, 

*S  bha  h-uile  h-aon  riamh  dhiubh  fallain. 

'S  'n  uair  a  thigeadh  mios  roimh  Bhealltuinn,       25 
B'  fheairrde  mi  na  bh'  aice  bhainne. 

Chumadh  i  rium  gruth  is  uachdar, 
Air  fhuairid  's  gu'm  biodh  an  t-earrach. 

Dh'  fhoghnadh  i  dhomh  fad  an  t-samhraidh 
Cumail  annlain  rium  is  arain.  30 

Cha  robh  leithid  chun  an  eadraidh 
Am  fad  as  freagradh  do  Mhac  Cailein. 

Bhiodh  i  air  thoiseach  an  t-sealbhain, 
A'  tighinn  's  a'  falbh  o'n  bhaile. 

'S  mise  fhuair  an  sgobadh  creachaidh  35 

'N  la  a  leag  iad  i  'san  rainich. 

224 


SONG  TO  A  EWE 

Indeed  but  she  was  silklike  quite, 
The  fine  ewe  of  the  feet  so  white. 

For  the  fishing  many  a  fly,  I  trow. 

Has  come  from  her  pretty  back  ere  now. 

For  the  dear  belted  plaids  good  stuff* 
On  every  side  of  her  mantle  rough. 

On  the  wool  combs  they  will  place  it, 
It  is  splendid  when  they  dress  it. 

Than  the  flax  'tis  shaggier  showing, 
The  best  the  Lowlanders  have  growing. 

Twin  lambs  a-year  she  used  to  bear. 
And  healthy  all  o'  them  ever  were. 

And  when  a  month  would  come  'fore  Beltane 
The  better  was  I  of  her  milk  then. 

In  curds  and  cream  she  would  keep  me. 
However  cold  the  spring  might  be. 

The  summer  long  she  would  supply  me, 
Keeping  bread  and  kitchen  by  me. 

At  milking  time  was  not  her  marrow. 
Far  as  MacCailin's  word  would  carry. 

She  would  be  in  the  van  o'  the  drove 
That  to  and  from  the  township  move. 

'Tis  I  that  got  the  anguish  racking. 
The  day  they  laid  her  in  the  bracken. 

225  p 


ORAN  DO  CHAORA 

'S  trie  tha  mi  'g  amharc  an  ait 
An  robh  i  blath,  's  i  call  a  fala. 

'S  anns  an  fhraoch  aig  taobh  Uillt-ghartain, 
Rinn  i  'n  cadal  as  nach  d'  fhairich.  40 

'S  diombach  mi  do'n  ghille-mhartuinn, 
Bha  cho  dana  's  dol  'na  caraibh. 

Feudaidh  na  h-eunlaith  bhi  roiceil 
Ag  itheadh  a  feola  's  a  saille. 

Cha  n''eil  eun  a  laigh  air  fiilachd  45 

Nach  robh  umad  ann  an  cabhaig. 

Am  fear-ruadh  a  chuir  gu  bas  i, 
Thug  e  pairt  dhith  chum  na  garaidh. 

'N  uair  a  rainig  mis'*  an  araich, 

Cha  robh  lathair  dhiot  ach  faileas.  50 

Bha  na  cnaimhean  air  an  lomadh ; 
Is  bha  'n  olann  air  a  pealladh. 

O'n  a  chain  mi  nis  mo  chaora, 

'S  coslach  do  m"*  aodach  a  bhi  tana. 

Cia  leis  a  nithear  dhomh  cota,  55 

O  nach  beo  a"*  chaora  cheann-fhionn  ? 

H-uile  bean  a  th'  anns  an  duthaich, 
Tha  mi'n  duil  an  durachd  mhaith  dhomh. 

'S  theid  mi  dh'  iarraidh  na  faoighe-chloimhe, 
Air  mnathan  coire  an  fhearainn.  60 

226 


SONG  TO  A  EWE 

I  often  at  the  place  am  musing, 

Where  warm  she  lay,  her  lifeblood  losing. 

Twas  in  the  heath  beside  Allt  Gartain, 
She  slept  the  sleep  with  no  upstarting. 

I  am  indignant  that  Reynard 
Was  so  bold  as  go  grip  her  hard. 

The  birds  of  prey  may  be  replete. 
Eating  her  fat  up  and  her  meat. 

Not  a  bird  that  gorged  on  carrion, 
But  was  round  about  thee  hurrying. 

The  red  lad  that  caused  her  sorrow. 
He  took  part  o"*  her  to  his  burrow. 

When  I  had  reached  the  field  of  gore. 
Nought  but  thy  shadow  to  the  fore. 

The  bones  they  lay  there  stript  and  bare. 
The  wool  was  only  matted  hair. 

Since  I  now  have  lost  my  ewe. 

My  clothes  are  like  to  be  thin  and  few. 

By  whom  for  me  will  coat  be  made. 
Since  the  white-faced  ewe  is  dead  ? 

Every  wife  that  lives  i'  the  county, 
I  am  hoping  for  her  bounty. 


I'll  go  and  the  thigged  wool  demand 
s  of 

227 


From  the  good  ladies  of  the  land. 


\ 


ORAN  DO  CHAORA 

Tadhlaidh  mi  air  Inbhir-ghinneachd, 
'S  innsidh  mi  na  bhios  air  m'  aire. 

Gheibh  mi  tlam  de  chloimh  nan  caorach, 
O'n  a  tha  mi  dh'  aodach  falamh. 

Gheibh  mi  rusg  an  Tigh-na-sroine,  65 

O'n  mhnaoi  choir  a  bha  "'san  Arthar. 

An  Gleann-ceitilein  an  fheoir 
Gheibh  mi  na  ruisg  mhora,  gheala. 

Gheibh  mi  Ian  na  slighe-ohreachainn 

O  nighean  Domhnuill  ghlais  an  drama  70 

Cuiridh  mi  sud  thar  mo  ruchan, 

'S  fheairrd**  a  ghiulaineas  mi  'n  eallach. 

Ruigidh  mi  bean  Cheann-loch-eite, 
Tha  mi  ^m  eiginn  's  cha  bu  mhaith  lea. 

Gheibh  mi  uaipe  tlam  de  dh'fhaoighe,  75 

Tlam  eile  a  thaobh  bhi  ''m  charaid. 

Their  an  te  tha  'n  Guala-chuilinn : 
'S  mor  as  duilich  learn  do  ghearan. 

Bheir  i  nuas  an  t-uisge-beatha, 

Dh"*  fheuchainn  an  crath  e  dhiom  an  smalan.        80 

Their  gach  te  tha  'n  Druim-a-chothuis, 
Gheibh  thu  rud,  ''s  gur  maith  an  airidh. 

'N  uair  a  theid  mi  dh'  Inbhir-charnain, 
Cha  leig  aon  te  th'  ann  mi  falamh. 

228 


SONG  TO  A  EWE 

To  reach  Inver  Ghinneachd  is  my  intention, 
And  all  that's  in  my  mind  Til  mention. 

Of  the  sheep"'s  wool  111  get  a  flock, 
Since  clothing  I  have  none  in  stock. 

In  Tigh-na-Sroine  I'll  get  a  pelt, 

From  the  good  wife  that  in  Narrachan  dwelt. 

In  Glen  Ketland  of  the  grass 

The  great  white  fleeces  I'll  compass. 

I'll  get  the  full  of  the  scallop-shell 
From  grey  Donald  o'  the  Dram's  girl. 

Yon  bumper  o'er  my  throat  I'll  hurry, 
The  better  I'll  the  burden  carry. 

I'll  reach  the  wife  o'  Loch  Etive-head, 
She  would  be  sorry  I'm  in  need. 

I'll  get  one  tease  of  thigged  wool  from  her. 
One  more  that  I'm  a  friendly  comer. 

She  of  Guala  Chuilinn  will  declare : 

"  Your  plaint  I  think  is  hard  to  bear  ?  " 

She  will  bring  down  the  usquebae 

To  see  if  my  gloom  't  would  drive  away. 

Each  wife  in  Druim-a-Chothuis  will  say  : 
"  Something  you'll  get,  and  well  you  may." 

When  I'll  to  Inver  Charnain  fare, 
Me  empty  away  lets  no  wife  there. 
229 


OKAN  DO  CHAORA 

'N  uair  theid  mi  ""n  bhaiP  tha  laimh  ris,  85 

Gheibh  mi  tlaman  anns  gach  talla. 

Cha  n^eil  te  tha  'n  Dail-an-easa 
Nach  teid  mi  'm  freasdal  a  ceanail. 

Thig  mi  dhathaigh  leis  na  gheibh  mi, 

'S  tomad  deth  cho  mor  ri  gearran.  90 

Foghnaidh  sud  domh  corr  as  bliadhna 
Chumail  sniomh  ri  nighinn  a'  bharain. 

'S  'n  uair  a  theid  e  fo  na  spalaibh, 
Ni  i  fabhar  rium  a"*  bhan-fhigheach. 

'S  ioma  te  ni  eudach  guamach,  95 

Ach  cha  luaidh  i  e  gun  cheathrar. 

'H-uile  gruagach  tha  'n  Gleann-eite 

Dh'  fheumainns''  iad  a  thighinn  do'n  bhaile. 

'S  'n  uair  a  chuireas  mi  air  seol  iad, 

'S  ann  a  theid  an  clo  a  theannadh.  100 

'N  uair  a  theannas  iad  ri  fuchdadh, 
Cha  bhi  tuchadh  air  an  anail. 

'N  uair  a  shuidheas  iad  air  cleith, 

Gu'n  cluinnf  an  eigheach  thar  na  beannaibh. 

'N  uair  a  sheinneas  iad  na  h-6rain,  105 

Cuiridh  iad  na  h-eoin  an  crannaibh. 


"•N  uair  a  theannas  iad  ri  luinneag, 
igr 
230 


'S  binn'  iad  na  guileag  na  h-eala. 


SONG  TO  A  EWE 

At  the  township  near  it,  when  I  call, 
ril  get  a  strand  in  every  hall. 

And  wife  in  Dalness  there  is  none, 
Whose  kindness  111  not  wait  upon. 

Homeward  111  come  with  what  111  get, 
Huge  as  a  horse  the  bulk  of  it. 

A  year  and  more  I  have  enough, 
To  keep  my  wife  in  spinning  stuff*. 

When  it  will  'neath  the  shuttles  go. 
The  weaver,  shell  me  favour  show. 

Many  a  wife  makes  clothes  galore, 
But  shell  not  full  them  without  four. 

Ilk  maid  does  in  Glen  Etive  dwell, 
To  come  to  the  township  111  compel. 

And  when  111  put  them  in  good  tune, 
The  broadcloth  will  be  shrunken  soon. 

When  to  full  they  will  begin, 
Their  breath  there  is  no  wheezing  in. 

When  theyll  sit  upon  a  hurdle. 

Their  shouting  o'er  the  peaks  is  heard  welL 

When  the  fulling  songs  theyll  sing, 
Theyll  set  the  birds  on  trees  listening. 

When  they  begin  to  sing  a  lay, 

Than  the  swan's  note  far  sweeter  they. 
231 


ORAN  DO  CHAORA 

""S  mor  as  binne  fuaim  nan  nionag 

Na  ceol  piob'  air  thus  a'  phannail.  no 

Bithidh  a  turn  an  laimh  gach  te  dhiubh, 
■"S  bithidh  a  beul  a"*  seinn  na  h-ealaidh. 

Te  ri  burn,  is  te  ri  moine, 
Te  ag  cur  seol  air  an  aingeal. 

Te  'ga  phostadh  ann  an  tuba,  115 

Te  'ga  luidreadh,  te  'ga  ghlanadh. 

Dithis  'ga  shlacadh  gu  laidir, 
Dithis  'ga  fhasgadh  gu  gramail. 

Ach  mu'n  cuir  iad  as  an  laimh  e, 

'S  cinnteach  mi  gu'm  fas  e  daingean.  120 

Theid  a  thiormachadh  air  braighe 
Garadh-cail  air  am  bi  barran. 

Mur  tig  e  'm  ionnsuidh  an  taillear, 
'S  nar  dha  e  's  gu'n  tug  sinn  bean  da. 

'S  ann  an  sin  a  theid  mo  chomhdach,  125 

Leis  a'  chloimh  a  rinn  mi  thional. 

Gur  mise  tha  gu  dubhach 

Ri  cumha  do  'n  chaora  cheann-fhionn. 

'S  beag  an  t-ioghnadh  dhomh  bhi  duilich, 

Mulad  a  bhi  orm  is  farran.  130 

'N  uair  a  shuidheas  mi  air  tulaich, 

"S  turraman  a  bhi  air  m'  aire. 

232 


SONG  TO  A  EWE 

Far  sweeter  is  the  girls'  refrain, 

Than,  heading  the  host,  the  bagpipes  strain. 

In  the  hand  of  each  her  turn  will  be, 
While  her  mouth  sings  the  melody. 

One  at  water,  one  at  peat. 
Another  keeping  the  fire  neat. 

One  in  a  tub  upon  it  prancing. 

One  wallowing  it,  and  one  it  cleansing. 

A  couple  beating  it  with  might, 
Another  couple  wringing  tight. 

Ere  out  of  hand  they'll  let  it  go, 
I'm  certain  that  it  firm  will  grow. 

Upon  a  brae  it  will  go  dry 

On  garden  plot  with  bush  tops  high. 

Unless  the  tailor  to  me  came. 

Since  a  wife  we  gave  him,  'twere  a  shame. 

And  then  it  is  I  shall  be  clad 
With  all  the  wool  I  gathered  had. 

But  I  myself  in  gloom  am  deep 
Lamenting  for  the  white-faced  sheep. 

That  I  am  sad  is  little  wonder, 
I'm  both  in  sorrow  and  in  anger. 

My  wish,  when  sitting  on  a  hill. 
Is  to  and  fro  to  rock  my  fill. 
233 


ORAN  DO  CHAORA 

Ag  cuimhneachadh  coslas  na  caorach 
Nach  robh  h-aogas  anns  an  fhearann. 

Bha  i  riabhach,  's  bha  i  lachdunn,  135 

Bha  i  cais-fhionn,  's  bha  i  ceann-fhionn. 

Bha  i  croidh-fhionn,  's  bha  i  botach ; 
Bha  geal  mor  air  barr  a  breamain. 

'N  11  air  theid  mi  shealltainn  nan  caorach, 
lonndraichidh  mi  chaora  cheann-fhionn.  140 

'S  misde  mi  gu'n  dVinn  i  m'  fhagail, 
'S  b'fheairrde  mi  'm  fad  's  a  dh'fhan  i. 

Cha  do  leig  i  riamh  an  fhaillinn 
Ann  am  fhardaich  fhad  's  a  mhair  i. 

'N  uair  a  rachainn  chum  na  h-airigh,  145 

Chuireadh  i  na  trathan  tharum. 

'S  ro  mhaith  thogadh  i  na  paisdean, 
Bhiodh  iad  sathach  'n  uair  bu  mhaith  leam. 

'S  mise  bha  air  bheagan  saothrach 

'M  fad  's  a  bha  mo  chaora  maireann.  150 

O'n  a  thainig  ceann  a  saoghail, 

'S  eiginn  domh  bhi  daor  's  a'  cheannachd. 

Gu'm  bu  slan  do'n  chat  a  chaorach, 
As  an  tain'  a'  chaora  cheann-fhionn. 

'S  an  te  o'n  d'fhuair  mi  i  'n  toiseach,  155 

'S  ro  mhaith  choisinn  i  mo  bheannachd. 
234 


SONG  TO  A  EWE 

Recalling  her  appearance  grand, 
The  like  of  her  was  not  in  the  land. 

She  was  brindled,  she  was  dun, 
A  white  footed,  white  headed  one. 

She  was  white  hoofed,  booted  well, 

A  great  white  spot  on  the  top  o'  her  tail. 

When  I  shall  go  the  sheep  to  view, 
I  shall  miss  the  white-faced  ewe. 

Her  leaving,  me  the  worse  has  made, 
I  was  the  better  while  she  stayed. 

Never  did  she  allow  a  dearth 

In  my  bield,  while  she  was  on  earth. 

To  the  sheilings  when  I'd  hie  me, 
She  would  put  the  mealtimes  by  me. 

Right  well  did  she  the  bairns  bring  up. 
Whene'er  I  wished  they'd  fully  sup. 

Tis  I  that  was  at  little  striving. 
As  long  as  my  own  ewe  was  living. 

Since  has  come  the  end  o'  her  day, 
I  must  buy  and  dearly  pay. 

Luck  be  to  the  sheep-pen  true. 

From  whence  has  come  the  white-faced  ewe. 

And  she  from  whom  I  first  got  yon. 
Right  well  has  she  my  blessing  won. 
235 


ORAN  LUAIDH 

Beannachd  leis  an  rud  a  dh'fhalbhas  ; 
Cha  n-e  's  fhearr  dhuinn  ach  na  dh'fhanas. 

'S  fhearr  bhi  cridheil  leis  na  dh'fhuir'cheas, 

Na  bhi  tuirseach  mu  na  chailleas.  160 


ORAN  LUAIDH. 

LuiNNEAG. 

Ho  ro  gu'n  togainn  ai?-  huganfhathast. 

Ho  ro  io  mu'n  teid  mi  laighe ; 

Ho  ro  giiHn  togainn  air  huganfhaihast. 

ToGAMAiD  fonn  air  luadh  a**  chlolain ; 
Gabhaidh  sinn  ceol  is  orain  mhatha.  5 

Ho  ro  gu'n  togainn^  ^^c. 

W  fheairrd'  an  clo  bhi  choir  nan  gruagach 
A  dheanadh  an  luadhadh  le  ""n  lamhan. 

'N  uair  a  thionndas  iad  air  cleith  e, 
Chluinnte  fuaim  gach  te  dhiubh  labhairt. 

Orain  ghrinne,  bhinne,  mhilse,  10 

Aig  na  ribhinnean  'gan  gabhail. 

Luinneag  ac'  air  luadh  an  aodaich, 
Sunntach,  saothrachail,  ri  maitheas. 

Thogamaid  fonn  gu  ceolmhor,  aotrom 

Air  a**  chlo  bu  daoire  dathan.  15 

236 


FULLING  SONG 

A  blessing  go  with  whafs  away ; 

That's  not  our  best,  but  things  that  stay. 

Better  with  what  remains  be  joyous, 
Than  let  that  which  is  lost  annoy  us. 


FULLING  SONG. 

Lay. 

Ho  ro  I  would  lift  it  breast-high  yet. 

Ho  ro  io  before  I  go  to  bed ; 

Ho  ro  I  would  lift  it  breast-high  yet. 

Fulling  the  web  let's  raise  a  tune ; 
Well  melody  and  good  songs  croon  : 
Ho  ro  I  would  lift,  ^c. 

Improved  the  cloth  with  the  maiden  bands 
Who'd  do  the  fulling  with  their  hands. 

When  they  will  turn  it  on  a  hurdle, 
Heard  is  the  sound  of  each  one's  word  well. 

Charming  songs,  melodious,  ringing. 
Have  the  maidens  that  are  singing. 

For  fulling  cloth  they  have  a  lay 
Cheerful,  laborious,  work-a-day. 

Let's  raise  a  sweet  strain  free  from  dolours 

On  cloth  that  richest  was  in  colours. 
237 


ORAN  LUAIDH 

An  clo  brionnach,  ballach,  ciatach, 
Triuchanach,  stiallagach,  gathach ; 

An  clo  taitneach,  basach,  boisgeil, 
Laiste,  daoimeanach,  *s  e  leathann. 

Gu'm  bu  slan  a  bhios  na  caoirich  20 

Air  an  d'  fhas  an  t-aodach  flathail. 

Beannachd  aig  an  laimh  a  shniomh  e, 
'S  i  rinn  gniomh  na  deagh  bhean-tighe 

'S  ann  is  coslach  ris  an  t-sid  e, 

Dh'  fhag  i  min  e,  ""s  rinn  i  maith  e.  25 

Snath  cho  righinn  ris  na  teudan, 

'S  e  cho  reidh  's  a  dh'  fheudte  shnaidheadh. 

Cha  robh  pluc,  no  meall,  no  gaog  ann, 
No  giog  chaol,  no  sliasaid  reamhar. 

'N  uair  a  theid  an  clo  do'n  mhargadh,  30 

'S  e  ni  'n  t-airgead  air  an  rathad. 

Cha  bhi  slat  a  sios  o  chrun  deth, 
Miann  gach  suP  e  anns  an  fhaidhir. 

Cha  bhi  suirghich  anns  an  duthaich 

Nach  bi  'n  duil  ri  pairt  deth  fhaighinn.  35 

'S  ann  a  tha  'n  toil-inntinn  aodaich 
Aig  na  daoin'  a  bhios  'ga  chaitheadh. 


FULLING  SONG 

The  brindled  spotted  cloth,  well-made. 

All  striped,  and  streaked,  and  rainbow-rayed. 

The  pleasing  cloth,  all  streaked,  and  gleaming, 
Broad,  too,  diamonded,  and  flaming. 

And  healthy  may  the  sheep-stock  be 
On  which  has  grown  the  cloth  princely. 

A  blessing  on  the  hand  that  spun. 
And  the  good  housewife's  part  has  done. 

It's  like  the  silk,  and  to  her  credit. 
Fine  she  left  it,  good  she  made  it. 

Threads  as  tough  as  strings  of  harp, 
As  smooth  as  might  be,  woof  and  warp. 

No  lump,  hump,  inequality. 

No  narrow  crease  there,  or  fat  thigh. 

When  goes  the  cloth  on  the  market  day. 
Twill  make  the  money  on  the  way. 

There  won't  be  a  yard  o'  it  under  a  crown, 
The  wish  of  all  eyes  in  the  town. 

In  the  country  there  will  not  be  wooer 
But  hopes  part  of  it  to  secure. 

They  will  have  pleasure  in  their  clothes. 
All  men  that  will  be  wearing  those. 
239 


ORAN  LUAIDH 

Thogaiiin  am  foiin  a  dh^iarradh  poitear, 
Is  luaidhinn  an  clo  bu  mhiann  le  mnathan. 

""S  olc  an  obair  luadh  no  fucadh,  40 

Ma  bhios  tuchadh  oirnn  le  padhadh. 

Chuireadh  e  sunnt  air  muinntir  oga, 
Suidheadh  mu  bhord  ag  61  gu  latha. 

Puinse  le  glaineachaibh  lana, 

Deochanan-slainte  'gan  gabhail.  46 

Greis  air  fion,  is  greis  air  branndaidh, 
Greis  air  dram  de'n  uisge-bheatha. 

Greis  air  f  idhleireachd  's  air  dannsa, 
Greis  air  canntaireachd  's  air  aighear. 

'N  uair  theid  stairn  an  aird  an  aodainn,  50 

^  ro  mhaith  'n  t-am  do  dhaoine  laighe. 


240 


FULLING  SONG 

The  drinker's  tune  I  would  be  humming, 
And  full  the  cloth  beloved  of  women. 

To  full  or  press  is  work  accurst, 
If  we  are  like  to  choke  with  thirst. 

It  would  give  joy  to  youthful  people, 
To  sit  at  board  till  day  and  tipple. 

Punch  with  glasses  overflowing, 

Good  healths,  and  they're  empty  showing. 

A  while  at  wine,  a  while  at  brandy, 
A  while  at  whisky  dram,  kept  handy. 

A  while  at  fiddling  and  at  dancing, 
A  while  at  singing  and  romancing. 

When  the  throb  travels  to  the  head, 
High  time  for  men  to  make  for  bed. 


241 


DO'N  GHUNNA  NIC  COISEAM 


ORAN  DO  GHUNNA  D  AN  AINM  NIC 
COISEAM. 

LuiNNEAG. 

Horo  mo  chuid  chuideachd  thu, 

Gur  muladach  learn  uam  thu ; 
Horo  mo  chuid  chuideachd  thu, 

^S  mi  dtreadh  hheann  is  uchdanan, 
B^  ait  learn  thu  bhi  cuide  rium,  5 

^S  do  chudthrom  air  mo  ghualainn. 

'N  uair  chaidh  mi  do  Ghleann  Locha, 
'S  a  cheannaich  mi  Nic  Coiseam, 
Is  mise  nach  robh  gorach, 

'N  uair  chuir  mi  ""n  t-6r  g'*a  fuasgladh.  10 

Horo  mo  chuid  chuideacJid  thu,  S^c. 

Thug  mi  Choir'  a"*  Cheathaich  thu, 
'N  uair  bha  mi  fhein  a'  tathaich  ami, 
'S  trie  a  chuir  mi  laighe  leat 

Na  daimh  ''s  na  h-aighean  ruadha. 

Thug  mi  Bheinn-a-chaisteil  thu,  15 

'S  do'n  fhasach  a  tha  'n  taice  ri. 
Am  Mam  is  Creag-an-aprain 
Air  leacan  Beinn-nam-fuaran. 

Thug  mi  thu  Bheinn-dorain, 

An  cinneadh  na  daimh  chrocach,  20 

""N  uair  theannadh  iad  ri  cronan, 

Bu  bhoidheach  leam  an  nuallan. 

242 


TO  THE  GUN  NIC  COSHAM 


SONG   TO  A  GUN   NAMED  COSHAM'S 
DAUGHTER. 

Lay. 

Horo  my  companion  thou, 

Fm  sad  to  be  away  from  thee, 
Horo  my  companion  thou. 

While  I  climb  peaks  and  boulders, 
I  were  glad  thou  should  stay  with  vie. 

Thy  weight  on  my  shoulders. 

When  I  went  to  Glen  Lochay, 
And  bought  myself  Nic  Cosham, 
I  held  no  foolish  notion 

When  I  gave  the  gold  to  free  her. 
Horo  my  companion  thou,  S^c. 

Thee  I  brought  to  the  Misty  Corrie, 
When  there,  on  hunting  foray, 
I  oft  laid  low  and  gory 

The  red  hinds  and  the  deer. 

Thee  I  took  to  the  Hill  of  the  Castle, 
And  the  plains  that  near  it  nestle. 
To  the  Apron  Rock,  and  Mam's  Hill 
On  Ben-nam-Fuaran's  side. 

I  took  thee  to  Ben  Dorain, 
The  antlered  stags  grew  thereon  ; 
When  they  began  a-roaring, 
Bonny  methought  they  cried. 
243 


DO'N  GHUNNA  NIC  COISEAM 

Thug  mi  Choire-chruiteir  thu, 
O's  aite  grianach,  tlusail  e, 

Gu  biadhchar,  feurach,  lusanach  ;  25 

Bhiodh  spurt  ann  aig  daoin'-uaisle. 

Ghiulain  mi  Ghleann-eite  thu, 
Thog  mi  ris  na  Creiseaii  thu ; 
'S  e  mheud  's  a  thug  mi  speis  duit 

A  dh'fhag  mo  cheum  cho  luaineach.  30 

'S  math  am  Meall-a-bhuiridh  thu, 
Cha  mhiosa  ""m  Beinn-a-chrulaist  thu, 
'S  trie  a  loisg  mi  fudar  leat 
An  coire  chul  na  Cruaiche. 

Thug  mi  Lairig-ghartain  thu,  35 

O's  alainn  an  coir'-altrum  i ; 
""S  na  feidh  a"*  deanamh  leabaichean 
Air  creachainn  ghlas  a'  Bhuachaill. 

Thug  mi  thu  do'n  Fhas-ghlaic 

'S  a'  ghleann  am  bi  na  lan-daimh ;  40 

"'S  trie  a  chaidh  an  arach 

Mu  bhraighe  Cloieh-an-tuairneir. 

Chaidh  mi  do  dh'  Fheith-chaorainn 
Le  aithghearr  Choire-ehaolain, 
Far  an  robh  na  daoine  45 

A  bha  'n  gaol  air  a'  ghreigh  uallaieh. 

Thug  mi  Bheinn-a-chaoraeh  thu 
Shireadh  bhoc  is  mhaoiseaeh, 
Cha  b'eagal  gun  am  faotainn, 

""S  iad  daonnan  'san  Torr-uaine.  50 

244 


TO  THE  GUN  NIC  COSHAM 

Thee  I  took  to  Corrie  Chruitear 

0  !  a  sunny  cosy  quarter, 

Grassy,  herbous,  fruitful :  sport  there 
For  gentlemen  would  be. 

In  Glen  Etive'*s  elevation 
Up  I  bore  thee  to  the  Creshan ; 
For  thee  my  estimation 
My  pace  made  so  shifty. 

Thou  art  good  on  Meall-a-bhuiridh, 
Not  worse  on  Beinn-a-chrulaist, 
I've  thy  powder  burnt  with  fury 
Oft  behind  the  Cruach  Corrie. 

1  to  Lairig-ghartain  bore  thee, 

0  !  a  splendid  rearing  corrie ; 
Lairs  to  rest  on  make  the  quarry 

On  the  Shepherd's  scaur  so  hoary. 

Thee  I  took  to  Pasture-dell, 

The  glen  where  prime  harts  dwell ; 

And  oft  were  they  reared  well 

Round  Cloch-an-Tuairnear's  braes. 

1  went  to  Feith-chaorainn 

By  short-cut  of  Coire-chaolain, 
Where  dwelt  the  men  whose  care  on 
The  proud  herd  was  always. 

Thee  I  bore  to  Sheep  Hill  braes 
There  to  seek  for  does  and  raes. 
On  the  Green  Knoll  they're  always, 
No  fear  but  I  should  find  them. 
245 


DO'N  GHUNNA  NIC  COISEAM 

'Nuair  theid  mi  ris  a'  mhonadh, 
'S  tu  mo  roghainn  de  na  gunnachan ; 
O**!!  fhuair  thu  fein  an  t-urram  sin, 
Co  nis  a  chumas  uait  e  ? 


Ged  tha  mi  gann  a  storas 
Gu  suidhe  leis  na  poitearan, 
Ged  theid  mi  do  'n  tigh-osda, 
Cha  n-61  mi  ann  an  cuaich  thu. 


55 


The  Poet's  Gun,  according  to  tradition. 


246 


TO  THE  GUN  NIC  COSHAM 

When  I  hie  me  to  the  hill, 
Thou  of  guns  my  choice  art  still ; 
Since  thou  got  that  praise,  who  will 
Keep  it  from  thee  ?     Never  mind  them. 

Though  I  of  gear  am  scanty 
To  sit  with  the  drinkers  canty. 
To  the  tavern  though  I  went,  thee 
In  a  beaker  Til  not  swill. 


The  Property  of  the  Marquis  oj  BreadcUbane. 


247 


ORAN  DUTHCHA 


ORAN  DUTHCHA. 

LuiNNEAG. 

Horinno  ho  iririo, 

Horinno  ho  iririo, 

Horinno  ho  hiri  uo, 

''S  imo  dhUthaich  a  dhfhdig  mi  ! 

Ged  a  tha  sinn  car  tamuill  6 

A'  tamh  aig  na  Gallaibh, 
Tha  mo  dhuthaich  air  m'aire, 

'S  cha  mhaith  leam  a  h-aicheadh. 
Horinn  ho  iririo,  S^c. 

Ged  as  eiginn  duinn  gabhail 
Leis  gach  ni  thig  'san  rathad,  10 

Gu'm  b'ftiearr  na  na  srathan 
Bhi  tafchaich  's  a'  bhraighe. 

Ged  as  comhnard  na  sraidean, 
'S  mor  a  b'  fhearr  bhi  air  airigh, 
Am  frith  nam  beann  arda  16 

'S  nam  fasaichean  blatha. 

Beurla  chruaidh  gach  aon  latha 
'N  ar  chiais  o  chionn  ghrathuinn, 
'S  e  bu  dual  duinn  oV  n-athair 

Bhi  labhairt  nal  Gaidhlig.  20 

248 


A  BIRTH-PLACE  SONG 


A  BIRTH-PLACE  SONG. 

Lay. 

Horinno  ho  iririo, 

Horinno  ho  iririo, 

Horinno  ho  hiri  uo, 

*Tis  my  birth-place  Pve  forsaken. 

Though  staying  we  be 
In  the  Lowlands  a  wee, 
Oh  !  I  mind  my  country, 
To  disclaim  her  refusing. 
Horinno  ho  iririo^  ^c. 

Though  we  must  buckle  tae 
Everything  comes  the  way, 
Tis  the  hunt  on  the  brae 

To  the  straths  I'd  be  choosing. 

Though  the  level  streets  smooth  be. 
Better  far  live  in  bothie 
Of  the  wilderness  couthie 
In  the  peaks'  lofty  vale. 

Every  day  English  vile 

In  our  ears  a  long  while ! 

From  our  sires  'twas  our  style 

To  speak  the  tongue  of  the  Gael. 
249 


ORAN  DUTHCHA 

Ged  as  cliuiteach  a*"  Mhachair 
Le  cunnradh  's  le  fasan, 
B'  e  ar  durachd  dol  dathaigh 
""S  bhi  'n  taice  r'ar  cairdean. 

Bhi  'n  Clachan-an-diseirt  25 

A'  faicinn  ar  dilsean, 
G'um  b'  ait  leinn  an  tir  sin, 
0''n  as  i  rinn  ar  n-arach. 

Cha  b'  e  fasan  nan  daoin"*  ud 

Bhi  'n  conas  na  'n  caonnaig,  30 

Ach  sonas  an  t-saoghail, 

'S  a  bhi  gaolach  mar  bhraithrean 

'N  am  suidhe  's  tigh-osda 
Gu  luinneagach,  ceolmhor, 
Bu  bhinn  ar  cuid  oran,  35 

■"S  bhi  'g  61  nan  deoch-slainte. 

Luchd-dhireadh  nan  stucan 
Le'n  gimnachan  dubh-ghorm, 
A  loisgeadh  am  fudar 

Ri  udlaiche  lan-daimh.  40 

'S  e  bu  mhiann  leis  na  macaibh 
Bhi  triall  leis  na  slatan 
A  chur  srian  ris  a"*  bhradan, 
Cha  b**  e  fhasan  am  fasrail. 


to" 


Gu  fiadhach  a'  mhonaidh,  45 

No  dh'  iasgach  air  buinne, 
Anns  gach  gniomh  a  ni  duine, 
'S  mdr  urram  nan  Gaidheal. 
250 


A  BIRTH-PLACE  SONG 

Though  the  Lowlands  have  fame, 
Trade  and  fashions  may  claim, 
TVere  our  wish  to  gang  hame 
To  our  friends  and  be  near  them. 

In  Glenorchy  to  be  ! 
Ah  !  our  kindred  to  see ! 
We  revere  that  country  : 
It  gave  us  our  rearing. 

It  was  not  yon  men's  fashion 
To  be  wrangling  and  clashing. 
But  take  life  without  fashing, 
And  like  brothers  be  lovins: 


O" 


In  the  Inn  when  we'd  meet. 
Lyric  chorus  complete. 
Our  songs  would  be  sweet. 

While  the  healths  we  were  proving. 

Climbers  of  crag  and  boulder, 
With  their  blue  guns  a- shoulder. 
Who  would  kindle  their  powder 
At  a  lonely  stag  hale. 

'Twas  the  boys  darling  wish. 
With  the  rods  to  accomplish 
The  bridling  the  fish ; 
Nor  the  fashion  to  fail. 

To  hunt  deer  on  the  hill. 
Or  on  pool  fish  to  kill. 
Do  whatever  man  will, 

Great  renown  has  the  Gael. 
251 


ORAN  ALASDAIR 


ORAN  ALASDAIR. 

LUINNEAG. 

Alasdair  nan  stop 

Ann  an  Srdid  a'  CMU, 
Sin  an  duine  coir 

Air  am  bheil  mo  rUn. 

'S  coma  leat  an  sile,  6 

B'  annsa  leat  an  stop, 
Cha  n-6  sin  bu  docha 

Ach  am  botul  mor. 

Alasdair  nan  stop,  4*c. 

Theid  thu  do'n  tigh-osda, 

'S  olaidh  tu  gu  fial ;  10 

Cha  robh  gainne  storais 

Air  do  phoca  riamh. 

Bha  thu  greis  at  aimsir 

Ann  an  arm  an  Righ. 
Cumaidh  sin  riut  airgiod  15 

'S  fhearr  dhuit  e  na  ni. 

Gheibheadh  tu  le  d'  cheanal 

Leannan  anns  gach  tir, 

Ged  a  bhiodh  tu  falamh 

Cha  bhiodh  bean  ad  dhith.  20 

252 


SONG  TO  SANDY 


SONG  TO  SANDY. 

Lay. 

Sandy  of  the  Stoups, 
In  the  Back  Wt/nd, 

He's  the  good  fellow 
Is  much  to  my  mind. 

The  gill  you  like  but  little, 
The  mutchkin  you  prefer, 

But  with  the  bigger  bottle 
In  great  content  you  are. 

Alasdair  of  the  Stoups,  Sfc, 

You'll  hie  you  to  the  tavern 
And  heartily  you'll  quaff, 

No  scarcity  was  ever  in 

Your  pouch  that  holds  enough. 

You  spent  part  of  your  lifetime 
In  service  with  the  King, 

That  keeps  you  in  the  pension 
Serves  you  more  than  anything. 

You  get  you  with  your  manners 

A  lass  in  every  land  ; 
Though  you  had  not  a  penny, 

A  sweetheart  youVe  at  hand. 
253 


DO'N  T-SEAN  FHREICEADAN 

Tha  thu  maith  air  fairge, 

'S  trie  thu  marbhadh  eisor, 
Cas  a  shiubhal  garbhlaich, 

Theid  thu  shealg  an  fheidh. 

Ged  thuirt  Calum  breac  25 

Nach  robh  thu  tapaidh  riamh, 
Co  a  chreideadh  sin 

Ach  duine  bha  gun  chiall  ? 

""N  uair  a  theid  mi  Ghlascho, 

'S  taitneach  learn  bhi  V  61  30 

o 

Ann  an  tigh  mo  charaid, 
Alasdair  nan  stop. 


ORAN  DO'N  T-SEAN  FHREICEADAN 
GHAIDHEALACH. 

Deoch-slainte  an  Fhreiceadain 

■^S  aill  leinn  gun  cheist  i, 

'S  i  an  fhailte  nach  beag  oirnn 

Dhol  deiseal  ar  cleibh  ; 
Cha  n-fhag  sinn  am  feasd  i,  6 

O'n  tha  sinn  cho  dleasdanach 
Do  na  h-armuinn  bu  sheirceile 

Sheasadh  an  sreud ; 
Na  curaidhean  calma 

G'am  buineadh  bhi  'n  Albainn  10 

Feadh  mhonainean  garbhlaich 

A**  sealg  air  na  feidh : 
254 


TO  THE  OLD  BLACK  WATCH 

You're  good  at  sea  in  weather, 
And  oft  the  fish  you  kill ; 

A  foot  to  tread  the  heather, 
Come  hunt  the  deer  on  the  hill. 

Though  pockmarked  Calum  said  it 
That  you  were  never  clever. 

Who  would  to  that  give  credit 
But  a  fellow  senseless  ever  ? 

To  Glasgow  when  Til  wend  me, 
A  dram  that  meets  my  hopes 

Waits  in  the  house  of  Sandy, 
Friend  Sandy  of  the  Stoups. 


SONG  TO  THE  OLD  HIGHLAND 
BLACK  WATCH. 

The  health  of  the  Watch 
With  a  will  well  despatch, 
Tis  the  health  without  match 

Right  our  chest  round  to  go ; 
Well  ne''er  leave  it  behind, 
We  by  duty  inclined 
To  the  lads  the  most  kind 

That  could  stand  in  a  row  ; 
The  brave  hero  band 
That  should  be  in  Scotland 
"•Mid  the  rough  mountain  land 

A-hunting  the  deer : 
255 


DO'N  T-SEAN  FHREICEADAN 

Fhuair  mis'  orra  seanchas, 
Nach  mios""  an  cois  fairg'  iad, 
Bhitheadh  an  citcheanan  tarbhach  15 

Le  marbhadh  an  eisg. 

Buaidh  gu  brath  air  na  fleasgaich 
Fhuar  an  arach  am  Breatuinn, 
Chaidh  air  sail  o  chionn  greis  uainn 

Dhol  am  freasdal  ri  feum :  20 

An  loingeas  laidir  thug  leis  iad 
Nach  saraicheadh  beagan, 
Muir  ag  garaich  'gan  greasad, 

'S  i  freagradh  dhaibh  fein. 
Chuir  gach  lamh  mar  bu  deise  25 

Buill  de'n  chorcaich  bu  treise 
Ri  barr  nan  crann  seasmhach 

A  leth-taobh  gach  breid  ; 
'S  i  'g  imeachd  air  chuantan, 
'N  uair  a  dh'eirich  gaoth  tuath  le,  30 

B'ainmeil  air  luathas  i, 

'S  i  gluasad  gu  reidh. 

'N  uair  a  chuir  iad  na  h-armuinn 

Air  tir  ann  am  Flanras, 

'S  iad  fada  bho'm  pairtidh  35 

'S  o'n  aiteachan  fein, 
Bha  onair  nan  Gaidheal 
An  earbsa  r'an  tabhachd, 
Bha  sin  mar  a  b'abhaist 

Gun  fhaillinn  fo  ""n  ghrein :  40 

Tha  urram  an  drasd' 
Aig  gach  tir  anns  an  d'fhas  iad, 
Le  feobhas  an  abhaist, 

An  naduir  's  am  beus, 
256 


TO  THE  OLD  BLACK  WATCH 

I  have  got  their  record, 
They're  no  worse  on  sea-board, 
Well  their  kitchens  are  stored 
By  their  fish-killing  gear. 

Ever  luck  to  each  lad, 
They  were  true  British  bred, 
Who  long  since  to  sea  sped 

To  go  serve  against  might : 
The  strong  ships  that  carried  them 
TTwas  no  light  thing  flurried  them. 
Nor  hoarse  sea  that  hurried  them, 

She  is  suiting  them  quite. 
Each  hand  that  was  readiest 
The  strong  ropes  made  tidiest 
To  the  top  of  masts  steadiest. 

One  side  of  each  sheet ; 
And  she  the  waves  plowing. 
With  a  fair  north  wind  blowing. 
Was  famed  for  her  going. 

Smooth  sailing  and  fleet. 

When  they  sent  the  men  o'er 
Into  Flanders  ashore. 
From  their  own  party  far 

And  from  their  own  haunt. 
Their  honour  the  Gael 
To  their  keeping  entail. 
And  'twas  kept  without  fail 

'Neath  the  sun,  as  was  wont : 
Now  honour  is  due 
To  each  land  where  they  grew, 
For  their  constancy  true. 

Traits  and  ways  that  surpass — 
257 


DO'N  T-SEAN  FHREICEADAN 

Bhi  dileas  d'an  cairdean,  45 

Cur  sios  air  an  naimhdean  : 
""S  iomadh  rioghachd  an  d'fhag  iad 
Fuil  bhlath  air  an  fheur. 

'S  e  la  Fontenoi 

Thug  onair  gu  leoir  dhaibh,  50 

'N  uair  a  chruinnich  iad  comhla, 

'S  thoisich  an  streup ; 
Bu  tartrach  ar  Coimeal, 
Cur  ghaisgeach  an  ordugh, 
Na  lasgairean  oga,  55 

Chaidh  deonach  'na  dheidh : 
Na  gleachdairean  comhraig 
As  fhearr  th''aig  Righ  Deorsa, 
A  fhuair  fasan  is  foghlum 

Is  eolas  d'a  reir ;  60 

'S  e  duil  am  bheil  mise, 
'N  am  rusgadh  no  trioblaid, 
Gu'n  tugadh  a  fichead  dhiubh 

Briseadh  a  ceud. 

Fir  aigeannach,  mheanmnach  66 

Le  glas-lannan  ceann-bheairt, 
'S  i  sgaiteach  gu  barr-dheis, 

'S  i  anabarrach  geur : 
An  taice  ri  targaid, 

Crios  breac  nam  ball  airgid,  70 

'S  an  dag  nach  robh  cearbach 

G'an  tearmunn  'nan  sgeith : 
Le  'n  gunnachan  glana, 
Nach  diultadh  dhaibh  aingeal ; 
Spuir  ur'  air  an  teannadh,  75 

Gu  daingean  'nan  gleus  : 
258 


TO  THE  OLD  BLACK  WATCH 

To  their  friends  to  be  true, 
And  their  foes  to  subdue  : 
Kingdoms  they  bade  adieu 

With  warm  blood  on  the  grass. 

Twas  at  Fontenoy  they 
Brought  enough  fame  away : 
For  they  fell  to  the  fray 

When  they  gathered  together ; 
Noisy  our  Colonel  was, 
Drawing  up  his  heroes. 
The  gallant  young  beaux 

Followed  him  without  swither  : 
The  wrestlers  in  fight, 
George^s  keenest  in  might. 
Who  style,  skill  requisite, 

And  training  attained. 
To  this  hope  I'm  given  o'er. 
Should  troubles  show  more. 
Victory  from  five  score 

Twenty  of  them  had  gained. 

Men  of  stout  heart  and  hand, 
With  hilt-guarded  bright  brand. 
To  the  point  keen-edged,  and 

Sharp  exceedingly : 
As  support  to  the  targe. 
Belt  with  silver  nails  large. 
Pistol  sure  of  discharge. 

In  their  belt  as  their  stay : 
And  their  clean  guns  and  bright 
Ne'er  refused  them  to  light : 
With  fresh  flints  fastened  tight 

In  the  locks  full  secure  : 
259 


DOTST  T-SEAN  FHREICEADAN 

Gu  cuinnsearach,  biodagach, 
Fudarach,  miosarach, 
Adharcach,  miosail, 

Gu  misneachail,  treun.  80 

Na  spealpan  gun  athadh 
A  chleachd  bhi  ri  sgathadh, 
Nach  seachnadh  dol  fathast 

An  rathad  sin  fein  ; 
An  t-astar  a  ghabhail  85 

'S  an  ceartas  a  thathaich, 
Tri-chlaiseach  'nan  lamhan 

Leis  an  caitheadh  iad  beum ; 
Dol  maduinn  gu  mathas 

Cha  n-iarradh  iad  athais  90 

Gu  deireadh  an  latha 

'S  am  laighe  do'n  ghrein. 
'S  deas-fhaclach  an  labhairt 
Le  caismeachd  chatha, 
'S  e  'n  caisteal  an  claidheamh,  95 

G'an  gleidheadh  gun  bheud. 

Fir  acfhuinneach,  armach, 
Le'm  brataichean  ball-bhreac, 
Bu  tiachdmhor  an  armailt  iad, 

'S  b'ainmeil  am  feum  ;  100 

Sliochd  altrom  nan  Garbh-chrioch, 
Am  feachd  a  tha  earbsach, 
Nach  caisgear  an  aineas 

Gu'n  dearbh  iad  nach  geill. 
Leinn  is  fad  ©"'n  a  dh'  fhalbh  sibh  105 

Air  astar  do'n  Ghearmailt, 
Chur  as  do  gach  cealgair 

Chuir  fearg  oirbh  fein  ; 
260 


TO  THE  OLD  BLACK  WATCH 

They  have  whinger,  and  dagger, 
And  powder,  and  measure, 
And  horn,  and  each  treasure, 
Courageous  and  sure. 

The  gay  sparks  undreading, 
Who  used  to  be  snedding. 
That  way  still  to  be  treading 

Would  never  refuse ; 
The  distance  to  travel 
In  a  true  hunt  to  revel. 
Sword  in  hand  with  third  bevel. 

They  for  final  stroke  use  ; 
Going  early  to  play. 
No  leisure  sought  they 
Till  the  end  of  the  day 

When  the  sun  went  to  sleep. 
Their  speech  was  no  prattle. 
With  war  song  of  battle. 
Their  sword  is  their  castle 

Them  scatheless  to  keep. 

Armed,  accoutred  were  they, 
With  their  checked  flags'  display, 
A  pleasant  array. 

Famed  their  deeds  in  the  field  ; 
In  Roughbounds  born  and  bred 
The  force  that's  trusted. 
Whose  rage  is  not  stayed 

Till  they  prove  they'll  not  yield. 

We  think  long  since  the  way 

Ye  took  to  Germany, 

All  deceivers  to  slay 

That  angered  yourselves ; 
261 


DO'N  T-SEAN  FHREICEADAN 

An  glacadh  's  am  marbhadh, 
'S  an  sgapadh  mar  mheanbh-chrodh,  110 

'S  na  madaidh  'gan  leanmhuinn 
Air  leargainn  an  t-sleibh^ ! 

Sliochd  fineachan  uasal 
A  ghin  o  na  tuathaich, 
'San  iomairt  bu  dual  dhaibh  115 

Dol  suas  air  gach  ceum ; 
Gach  cas  mar  bu  luaithe, 
'S  gach  lamh  mar  bu  chruaidhe, 
'S  an  ardan  an  uachdar 

A'  bualadh  nan  speic ;  120 

Bu  ghnath  le'n  luchd-fuatha, 
Bhi  ""san  araich  gun  ghluasad, 
'S  a**  phairt  dhiubh  dh'fhalbh  uatha, 

Bhiodh  an  ruaig  air  an  deidh. 
Le  lamhach  nan  giUean,  125 

'S  le  lannan  geur,  biorach, 
Bhiodh  an  naimhdean  air  iomain 

A"*  sileadh  nan  creuchd. 

Bu  chliuiteach  na  lasgairean 

Ura,  deas,  gasda,  130 

Miann-sul  iad  r'am  faicinn 

Do  gach  neach  leis  an  leir ; 
Gach  seol  mar  a  chleachd  iad, 
Le  ""n  comhdacha  dreachmhor, 
Le  'n  osanan  breaca,  135 

'S  le  'm  breacan-an-fheir : 
Tha  mo  dhuil  r'an  tighinn  dathaigh 
Gun  an  uin'  a  bhi  fada, 
Le  cumhnanta  ceartais, 

Fir  Shasuinn  gu  leir  ;  140 

262 


TO  THE  OLD  BLACK  WATCH 

To  catch  them,  and  settle, 
Or  disperse  like  small  cattle, 
Which  the  dogs  chase  with  ettle 
On  the  slope's  grassy  shelves. 

Scions  of  clans  of  worth 
Sprung  from  men  of  the  North, 
When  in  strife  they  fare  forth. 

Every  step  forward  goes. 
Each  with  foot  that  was  fleetest. 
And  hand  that  was  featest. 
And  passion  completest 

In  dealing  the  blows  ; 
Off  their  foemen,  unloving. 
Lay  afield,  all  unmoving  ; 
And  the  part  from  them  roving. 

The  chase  on  them  bounds. 
With  the  lads'  enfilades. 
And  their  sharp-pointed  blades. 
Foes  were  driven,  like  jades. 

Dripping  blood  from  their  wounds. 

The  young  sparks  of  fame 

Were  fresh,  handsome,  and  game. 

Eyes'*  delight  to  see  them 

Whosoever  beholds 
All  the  style  shown  by  those. 
With  their  picturesque  clothes. 
And  their  tartan  short  hose. 

And  their  kilted  plaid  folds  : 
They  will  come  home,  my  trust  is. 
Before  long  time  past  is. 
With  treaties  of  justice, 

The  full  English  array  ; 
263 


DO  REISIMEID  EARRA-GHAIDHEAL 

Le  stiuradh  an  aigeil, 
Muir  dhubh-ghorm  chur  seachad, 
'S  nach  cum  an  cuan  fairsing 
Orra  bacadh,  no  eis. 


'N  uair  a  thainig  an  trioblaid,  145 

'S  i  a  dha-'s-an-da-fhichead, 
Bha  dana  le  misneach, 

'S  le  meas  orra  fein, 
Bras,  ardanach,  fiosrach, 

Gun  fhaillinn,  gun  bhriseadh,  150 

'S  cuid  araidh  dh'  an  gibhtean 

Bhi  'n  gliocas  's  an  ceill ; 
Tha  talanntan  trie 
Aig  a'  phairtidh  ud  bitheanf, 
'S  a  h-uir  ait  anns  an  tig  iad,  155 

Na  idir  a  theid. 
Co  an  drasda  their  mise, 
Thig  an  aird  ribh  a  chlisge  ? 
Mur  fag  sibh  e  nis 

Aig  an  t-sliochd  thig  'nur  deidh.  160 


ORAN  DO  REISIMEID  EARRA-GHAIDHEAL. 


A  RICH  !  gur  mi  tha  aighearach 
Mu'n  nuaidheachd  so  tha  ur  ann ; 

Tha  m'  inntinn  air  a  h-ardachadh 
Cn  thainig  fir  mo  dhuthcha  : 


264 


TO  THE  ARGYLL  REGIMENT 

Steering  on  through  the  deep, 
O'er  the  blue  waves  they  sweep  ; 
Nor  will  wide  ocean  keep 
On  them  stoppage  or  stay. 

When  the  trouble  had  beckoned, 
Was  the  brave  Forty  Second 
Bold  with  courage  well  reckoned, 

And  self-confidence ; 
Proud,  skilled,  and  wrath-wreaking, 
With  no  failing  or  breaking, 
Of  their  gifts  some  part  making 

To  have  wisdom  and  sense. 
Feats  of  arms  many  a  trace  is 
Which  yon  party  graces. 
Where  they  come  in  all  places, 

Or  will  ever  proceed. 
Who,  now,  shall  I  say  ""t, 
Will  soon  you  emulate  ? 
Save  you  now  leave  that  trait 

To  those  that  you  succeed. 


SONG  TO  THE  ARGYLL  REGIMENT. 

O  King  !  but  I  am  glad  about 

This  news  that's  recent  dated ; 

For  since  my  countrymen  came  out 

My  spirits  are  elated : 
265 


DO  REISIMEID  EARRA-GHAIDHEAL 

Guidheamsa  buaidh-larach  leibh  5 

'S  gach  ait  an  loisg  sibh  fudar ; 
Toil-inntinn  aig  ur  cairdean, 

'S  ur  naimhdean  a  bhi  tuirseach. 

'N  uair  thainig  Morair  Frederic, 

Thug  Dun-eideanu  cliu  dha  ;  10 

Gur  conspuU  air  cheann  sluaigh  e, 

'N  uair  ghluaiseas  iad  r'a  chulaibh, 
Sar  cheann-feadhna  treubhach, 

'S  e  leirsinneach  g'an  stiuradh, 
Ag  imeachd  leis  an  reisimeid,  16 

'S  e  f  ein  a""  deanamh  iuil  daibh. 

Tha  oighichearan  gasda 

Cho  math  's  a  tha  fo''n  chrun  ann, 
'S  math  a  thig  an  airm-ghaisge  dhaibh, 

"^S  iad  fasanta  g''an  giulan.  20 

'S  toil-inntinn  e  r''am  faicinn 

Na  lasgairean  glan,  ura, 
'N  uair  thog  iad  piob  is  brataichean 

Air  machraichean  nan  Dubh-ghall. 

Is  innsidh  mi  le  barantas  25 

O'n  a  V  aithne  dhomh  o  thus  sibh, 
Air  chruas  an  ait  an  tachair  sibh 

Cha  cheum  air  ais  ur  diithchas : 
Sliochd  nan  curaidh  calma, 

Bh'  anns  na  h-armailtean  bha  diuiteach,        30 
Ri'n  goireadh  each  na  h-Earra-ghaidhealaich, 

'S  am  fearg  cha  bu  chuis  shugraidh. 
266 


TO  THE  ARGYLL  REGIMENT 

Let  me  wish  for  you  victory 

Wherever  ye  burn  powder ; 
A  pleasure  to  your  friends  be  ye, 

While  all  your  foes  quite  cowed  are. 

Dunedin,  when  Lord  Frederick  came, 

Him  fair  renown  conceded  ; 
A  hero  he  at  a  host's  head. 

They  after  him  proceeded, 
A  chieftain  of  sagacity 

And  energy  beside  them. 
He  marches  with  the  Regiment, 

And  sets  himself  to  guide  them. 

The  officers  are  nice,  as  good 

As  'neath  the  sun  compare  :  them 
The  warlike  weapons  well  become. 

Since  they  have  style  to  wear  them. 
The  clean-made  fresh  young  Highlanders, 

To  view  them's  satisfaction, 
In  the  country  of  the  Lowlanders, 

When  they  raised  pipe  and  scutcheon. 

And  I  shall  say  with  warranty, 

Since  from  the  first  I  knew  you. 
Hard  placed  howe'er  ye  chance  to  be, 

Your  own  bent  ne'er  withdrew  you : 
Race  of  the  heroes  brave,  erewhiles 

In  the  armies  that  were  famous. 
The  others  styled  you  the  Argylls, 

Whose  wrath  no  pleasant  game  was. 
267 


DO  REISIMEID  EARRA-GHAIDHEAL 

Tha  buaidh  air  feachd  Earra-ghaidheal, 

Cha  ghabh  iad  sgath  no  curam ; 
'S  iad  neartmhor,  beachdail,  ardanach,  35 

Gu  reachdmhor,  laidir,  luthor : 
'S  daoin'-uaisle  ceart  tha  fas  ann, 

Nach  'eil  faillinneach  no  lubach, 
'S  neo-sheachantach  na  h-armuinn  sin, 

Ag  iomain  chaich  gu'n  dubhlan.  40 

""S  math  thig  dol  'nan  eideadh  dhaibh, 

'S  tha  reusan  air  a  chuis  ud, 
Tha  gunnachan  deagh  ghleusd'  aca, 

'S  cha  n'eil  te  dhiubh  dhiultas ; 
An  crios  gualann  fein  orra,  45 

'S  an  claidheamh  gle  gheur  cuil  ann, 
Bu  mhath  an  am  an  fheuma  iad 

'N  uair  a  leumadh  sibh  g'an  rusgadh. 

Tha  iad  leathann  mu  na  broillichean, 

Fir  chothromach  's  iad  dumhail,  50 

Le  'n  calpannan  deas,  di reach, 

'S  iad  liontach  fo  na  gluinean : 
Osain  ghoirid  bhreaca 

Le  dreach  air  an  cur  umpa ; 
'S  math  thig  gartain  charnaid  daibh,  55 

As  fhearr  a  th'  anns  na  buthaibh. 

Is  lionmhor  baintighearn'  innealta 

Nach  sireadh  iad  de  dhiirachd 
Ach  cead  bhi  anns  na  bileidean, 

'S  na  gillean  so  bhi  dluth  dhaibh ;  60 

268 


TO  THE  ARGYLL  REGIMENT 

Rests  victory  on  Argyll'*s  host. 

They'll  own  no  trepidation  ; 
They're  strong,  observant,  and  robust, 

A  proud,  stark,  powerful  nation : 
True  gentlemen  are  rearing  there. 

No  twist  or  failing  nigh  them. 
The  inevitable  heroes  dare 

Drive  others  to  defy  them. 

And  marching  in  their  war  attire 

Becomes  them  for  this  reason. 
Their  guns  are  well  prepared  to  fire. 

Not  one  of  them  works  treason  : 
Upon  them  their  own  shoulder-belt. 

Their  sharp  backswords  beneath  them. 
Which  good  in  time  of  need  you  felt. 

When  you  sprang  to  unsheathe  them. 

Around  the  chests  broad  are  the  men. 

Aye,  burly,  well-shaped  these  are, 
With  well-proportioned  calves  and  straight. 

That  full  beneath  the  knees  are : 
Short  hose  they  have  of  tartan  hue. 

And  with  good  taste  put  round  them ; 
Red  garters  well  become  them,  too. 

The  best  the  shops  have  found  them. 

And  many  are  the  fine  grisettes 

Who  wishes  all  forswear  them 
But  leave  to  live  in  the  billets 

With  those  lads  living  near  them ; 
269 


DO  REISIMEID  EARRA-GHAIDHEAL 

A  bheireadh  pog  le  sireadh  dhaibh, 

Cho  mills  ris  an  t-siucar, 
'S  a  bheireadh  miltean  dolar  dhaibh, 

'S  na  sporanan  g'an  giulan. 

Tha  suaicheantas  na  h-Alb'  agaibh,  65 

Is  dh'  fhalbh  sibh  leis  gu  sunntach, 
Am  fothannan  cruaidh,  calgarra, 

'S  neo-chearbach  cur  a  chruin  air : 
An  luibh  as  gairge,  reasgaiche 

A  bha  riamh  am  measg  nam  fluran,  70 

Is  ceann  na  muice  fiadhaiche 

A  leag  Diarmad  's  a'  choill  udlaidh. 

'S  e  thubhairt  na  bha  'g  amharc  oirbh, 

An  latha  bha  'n  Rebhiil  ann, 
Gu'm  bu  fhreagarrach  ur  lamhach,  75 

'N  uair  a  thairngeadh  sibh  na  rudain ; 
B'  fharumach  ur  gluasad, 

A'  tarruing  suas  gu  siubhlach, 
'S  am  breacan  cruinn  an  fheile 

Air  sleisdean  geal  nam  fiuran.  80 

'S  flathail  na  daoin'-uaisle  th'  ann, 

'S  neul  cruadail  air  gach  aon  fhear, 
Na  saighdearan  deas,  cumachdail, 

'S  gach  duine  dhiubh  cho  ionnsaichf ; 
Na'm  bitheadh  cas  no  cunnart  ann,  85 

Co  b'  urrainn  g'a  thoirt  dhiubh-san  ? 
'S  i  'n  reisimeid  as  urramaich' 

A  chunnaic  mi  le  m'  shuilean. 


270 


TO  THE  ARGYLL  REGIMENT 

Who'd  a  kiss  for  asking  fling  to  them, 

As  sweet  as  sugar,  marry ! 
And  crowns  in  thousands  bring  to  them, 

And  sporans  these  to  carry. 

And  ye  the  badge  of  Scotland  carry, 

And  with  it  blithe  yeVe  gone  on  ; 
The  Scottish  Thistle  hard  and  burry. 

That  neatly  puts  the  crown  on : 
An  herb  the  roughest,  angriest,  too. 

That  e'er  stood  'mid  the  flowers, 
And  the  head  o'  the  boar  which  Diarmid  slew 

In  the  wild  wood's  gloomy  bowers. 

All  said  who  were  beholding  you 

What  day  was  the  Review  there, 
Your  shooting  was  both  sharp  and  true. 

When  you  the  triggers  drew  there ; 
And  rhythmic  was  your  moving  made 

In  forming  swiftly  likewise. 
And  kilted  round  was  belted  plaid 

Upon  the  gallants'  white  thighs. 

Princely  the  gentry  that  are  there. 

On  each  a  valour  halo. 
The  soldiers  powerful,  ready  are, 

Each  one  so  skilled  a  fellow ; 
In  danger  or  calamity. 

Who  from  it  could  withdraw  them  ? 
If  Regiment  more  honoured  be, 

I  with  mine  eyes  ne'er  saw  them. 


271 


CUMHA  BHRAID-ALBANN 


CUMHA  lARLA  BHRAID-ALBANN. 

'S  TRUAGH  r''a  eisdeachd  an  sgeul 

Fhuair  mi  fein  tuille  's  luath ; 
Rinn  an  t-eug  ceann  na  ceille 

'S  nam  beus  a  thoirt  uainn ; 
Cha  n'eil  leigh  tha  fo  'n  ghrein  5 

Dheanadh  feum  dhuit  'san  uair : 
'S  bochd  ad  dheidh  sinn  gu  leir, 

'S  cha  n'eil  feum  bhi  'ga  luaidh. 

Tha  do  chairdean  laidir,  lionmhor 

Anns  gach  tir  a  tha  mu'n  cuairt ;  10 

So  na  dh'fhag  an  aigne  iosal 

Do  chorp  priseil  bhi  'san  uaigh : 
Is  iad  mar  loingeas  gun  bhi  dionach, 

Fad  o  thir  air  druim  a"*  chuain ; 
'S  tusa  b'urrainn  an  toirt  sabhailt,  15 

Ged  a  bhitheadh  an  gabhadh  cruaidh. 

"S  aim  an  diugh  a  chaidh  do  charadh 

An  ciste  chlar  'san  leabaidh  fhuair : 
Is  muladach  ad  dheidh  an  traths' 

A'  chuid  as  airde  de  d**  dhaoin'  uaisl'.  20 

Tha  gach  duin"*  agad  fo  phramh, 

'S  goirt  an  cas  am  bheil  an  tuath  ; 
'S  iad  do  bhochdan  a  tha  craiteach  : 

Thugadh  an  taic  laidir  uatha. 

272 


LAMENT  FOR  BREADALBANE 


LAMENT  FOR  THE  EARL  OF  BREADALBANE. 

'Tis  a  sad  tale  to  list  to 

Too  soon  IVe  received ; 
King  of  sense  and  of  manners 

Death  from  us  has  reived  ; 
There's  no  leech  'neath  the  sun 

Could  have  done  thee  good  then  : 
Poor  we  all  are  behind  you — 

A  needless  refrain. 

Your  friends  are  strong  and  numerous 

In  every  region  round ; 
And  'tis  this  that  sapped  their  courage 

That  your  dear  frame's  in  the  ground  : 
Ah  !  they  are  like  a  leaking  ship 

On  sea  ridge  far  from  shore ; 
And  'twas  you  that  could  have  saved  them, 

Though  their  peril  had  been  sore. 

'TIS  to-day  that  you  were  buried 

In  a  chest  of  boards  in  the  grave : 
And  now  behind  you  harried 

Are  your  splendid  men  and  brave. 
All  your  people  are  in  anguish 

And  in  ill  plight  tenant  men ; 
And  your  poor  folks  are  distracted : 

For  their  strong  support  is  ta'en. 

273  s 


CUMHA  BHRAID-ALBANN 

'S  iomadh  dilleachdan  6g,  falamh,  25 

Bha  le  h-ainiiis  air  dhroch  shnuadh, 
Seann  daoine  's  banntraichean  fanna 

Bha  faotainn  beathachaidh  uait ; 
'S  ann  bu  truagh  a'  ghaoir  a  bh'  aca, 

'S  deoir  gu  frasach  air  an  gruaidh,  30 

Caoineadh  cruaidh,  is  bualadh  bhasan, 

'S  bhi  toirt  pairt  d'  am  fait  a  iiuas. 

'S  muladach  an  nochd  do  dhuthaich, 

'S  dubhach,  tuirseach  tha  do  shluagh ; 
Cha  n-ioghnadh  sin,  's  mdr  an  diubhail  35 

An  tionndadh  so  thighinn  oirnn  cho  luath : 
Am  fear  a  b"*  abhaist  bhi  le  durachd 

Gabhail  curam  dhiubh  gach  uair, 
Dh'fliag  iad  Via  laighe  'san  uir  e 

Far  nach  duisg  e  gu  la  luain.  40 

'S  ann  an  trathaibh  na  Feill  Bride 

Thainig  crioch  air  saoidh  nam  buadh. 
'S  lom  a  thug  an  t-eug  an  sgriob  oirnn, 

Och  !  mo  dhith  cha  deic  a  luathas  ! 
Bhuail  an  gath  air  flath  na  firinn  45 

Bha  ""gar  dionadh  o  gach  cruas ; 
'S  goirid  leinn  do  re  'san  aite, 

Ged  their  each  gu''n  robh  thu  buan. 

Cha  do  sheall  thu  riamh  gu  h-iosal 

Air  ni  chuireadh  sios  an  tuath  :  50 

Bu  chul-taic  dhaibh  anns  gach  ait  thu, 

'S  tu  bha  ghnath  'gan  cumail  suas. 

274 


LAMENT  FOR  BREAD ALBANE 

Many  a  young  orphan  destitute, 

With  want  a  pallid  hue, 
Old  men  and  weakly  widows 

Who  got  sustenance  from  you  ; 
Ah  !  wretched  was  their  wail :  the  tears 

Upon  their  cheek  showered  down, 
With  loud  lament  and  smiting  hands. 

And  hair  torn  from  their  crown. 

Your  country's  sorrowful  to-night, 

Your  folk  sad.     Nowise  strange  ! 
For  great  the  loss  is  that  so  soon 

Has  come  on  us  this  change ; 
He  who  their  part  with  all  his  heart 

Was  ever  wont  to  take — 
They've  left  him  lying  in  the  mould. 

Till  doomsday  he'll  not  wake. 

At  time  of  Candlemas  it  came 

The  virtuous  sage's  end. 
Bare  is  the  sweep  death  brought  on  us 

Too  soon,  too  ill  to  mend ! 
The  dart  has  struck  the  leal  prince 

Us  who  fended  from  all  wrong ; 
And  short  we  thought  your  time  in  the  place. 

Though  men  say  you  lived  long. 

Ne'er  meanly  did  you  approve  what  would 

Put  down  the  tenantry : 
You  were  their  patron  everywhere. 

And  them  upheld  alway. 

275 


CUMHA  BHRAID-ALBANN 

Cha  bu  mhiann  leat  togail  ubhlaidh  ; 

Sin  a'  chuis  d'an  tug  thu  fuath ; 
Bha  thu  faotainn  gaol  gach  duine,  55 

'S  ghleidh  thu  'n  t-urram  sin  a  fhuair. 


Bha  thu  leirsinneach  le  suairceas  ; 

Dh'fhas  ad  chom  an  uaisle  mhor 
Ciall  is  misneach,  mar  ri  cruadal, 

Fhuair  thu  'n  dualchas  sin  o  d'  she6rs\  60 

Bha  thu  fiosrach,  glic,  neo-luaineach  ; 

Bha  t'  inntinn  buan  anns  a'  choir : 
O'n  a  thog  iad  air  ghiulan  shiaigh  thu, 

'S  aobhar  sin  a  luathaich  deoir. 

Cha  n''eil  aoibhneas  ann  am  Bealach,  65 

Cha  n''eil  farum  ann,  no  ceol ; 
Daoine  dubhach,  's  mnathan  galach, 

Is  iad  gun  ealaidh  ach  am  bron. 
O'n  a  chaidh  do  ghiulan  dathaigh 

O'n  Mhachair  air  mhuthadh  secMl,  70 

""N  ait  an  eididh  sin  a  chleachd  thu. 

Cist,  is  leine,  's  brat  de'n  t-srol. 

Na''m  bu  daoine  bheireadh  dhinn  thu, 

Dh''eireadh  miltean  air  an  toir 
O  bheul  Tatha  gu  Lathum-iochdrach,  75 

Sin  fo  chis  duit  agus  corr : 
Far  an  d'fhas  na  gallain  fhior-ghlan, 

Is  iad  lionmhor  ann  gu  leoir, 
A  rachadh  togarrach  gu  d'  dhioladh, 

Nach  obadh  dol  sios  le  deoin.  80 

276 


LAMENT  FOR  BREADALBANE 

And  you  wished  for  no  exaction : 
For  that  kind  of  thing  you  hated ; 

The  love  of  every  man  you  won, 
And  kept,  when  you  did  get  it. 

And  shrewd  you  were  with  mildness ; 

In  your  breast  grew  nobleness. 
Sense,  courage,  and  stem  valour, 

You  had  those  traits  from  your  race. 
You  were  knowing,  wise,  not  fickle ; 

Ne'er  from  right  did  your  mind  veer : 
Since  they  lifted  you  by  bearers. 

That  has  caused  the  hurrying  tear. 

No  joy  is  there  in  Tay mouth. 

There  no  noise,  no  music  trill ; 
Gloomy  men  and  weeping  women. 

Save  for  sorrow,  have  no  skill. 
For  they  bore  you  from  the  Lowlands 

Homewards  in  another  shape. 
In  place  of  your  accustomed  garb. 

Shroud,  coffin,  pall  of  crape. 

Were  it  men  that  took  you  from  us, 

In  their  track  had  thousands  gone 
To  Nether  Lorn  from  Taymouth, 

That  and  more  your  sway  doth  own : 
Where  have  grown  the  gallant  striplings, 

And  theyVe  many  enough,  who''d  hie 
Going  blythely  to  avenge  you. 

Nor  refuse  with  a  will  to  die. 
277 


DO'N  EIDEADH  GHAIDHEALACH 

^S  ann  tha  chuis  ni's  fhearr  mar  tha  i, 

Dochas  laidir  thu  bhi  beo 
Am  measg  nan  aingeal  a  tha  m  parras, 

Ann  an  gairdeachas  ro  mhor : 
Gur  e  'n  Ti  a  ghlac  air  laimh  thu,  85 

Thug  'san  aite  sin  dhuit  coir 
Air  oighreachd  as  fhearr  na  dh'fhag  thu, 

An  aros  aghmhor  Righ  na  gloir. 

Ged  tha  'm  fear  a  thig  at  aite 

Thall  an  traths'  thar  chuantan  mor,  90 

Guidheam  dluth  gu'n  tig  e  sabhailt, 

Soirbheas  ard  ri  cul  gach  seoil ; 
A  dh"*  fhaotainn  seilbh"*  air  an  t-saibhreas, 

'S  air  an  oighreachd  sin  bu  choir ; 
A  ghabhail  curam  d'a  chuid  fearainn,  95 

'S  d'a  chuid  daoine,  sean  is  6g. 


ORAN  DO'N  EIDEADH  GHAIDHEALACH. 

Fhuair  mi  nuaidheachd  as  ur, 

Tha  taitneadh  ri  run  mo  chridh' 
Gu  faigheamaid  fasan  na  duthch"* 

A  chleachd  sinn  an  tus  ar  tim. 
O'n  tha  sinn  le  glaineachan  Ian 

A'  bruidhinn  air  manran  binn. 
So  i  deoch-slainte  Mhontrose, 

A  sheasadh  a"*  choir  so  dhuinn. 
278 


TO  THE  HIGHLAND  GARB 

As  it  is  the  case  is  better, 

The  strong  hope  you  live  in  state 
In  Paradise  'mong  the  angels, 

And  in  joy  exceeding  great : 
That  He  took  you  by  the  hand, 

And  brought  you  where  you  have  a  right 
To  a  better  land  than  mourns  you. 

In  the  blest  King's  palace  bright. 

Though  he  that  will  succeed  you 

Is  just  now  across  the  main. 
With  bellying  sail  I  fondly  pray 

He'U  safe  come  home  again : 
To  get  possession  of  his  wealth 

And  rightful  heritage ; 
And  to  take  care  of  his  property. 

And  men  in  youth  and  age. 


SONG  TO  THE  HIGHLAND  GARB. 

News  have  I  got  which  is  fresh 

And  fulfils  the  desire  of  my  heart. 
We  shall  get  us  the  national  dress. 

Which  we  used  at  our  era's  first  start. 
Since  we're  furnished  with  glass  that  overflows, 

Talking  all  in  a  hum  of  delight. 
Then  here's  to  the  health  of  Montrose 

Who  for  us  has  asserted  this  right. 
279 


DO'N  EIDEADH  GHAIDHEALACH 

Chunnaic  mi  'n  diugh  an  Dun-eideann 

Comunn  na  feile  cruinn,  10 

Litir  an  fhortain  thug  sgeul 

Air  toiseach  an  eibhneis  dhuinn. 
Piob  gu  loinneil  an  gleus 

Air  soilleireachd  reidh  an  tuim  ; 
Thug  sinn  am  follais  ar  n-eideadh,  15 

Is  CO  a  their  reubail  ruinn  ? 

Deich  bhadhna  fichead  is  corr, 

Bha  casag  de'n  chlo  m'ar  druim, 
Fhuair  sinn  ad  agus  cleoc, 

''S  cha  bhuineadh  an  seors"*  ud  dhuinn  ;  20 

Bucaill  a'  dunadh  ar  brog, 

'S  e  'm  barr-ial  bu  bhoidhche  leinn  ; 
Rinn  an  droch  fhasan  a  bh'  oirnn 

Na  bodaich  d'  ar  n-6igridh  ghrinn. 

Mhill  e  pairt  d'ar  cumachd  25 

O'n  bhlar  gu  mullach  ar  cinn ; 
Bha  sinn  cho  Ian  de  mhulad, 

'S  gu'n  d'fhas  gach  duine  gu  tinn. 
'S  ann  a  bha  'n  cas  cho  duilich 

'S  a  thainig  uile  ri'm  linn,  30 

^N  uair  a  rinn  pairtidh  Lunnainn 

Gach  ait  is  urram  thoirt  dhinn. 


'S  fhada  bha  'n  onair  air  chall 

Is  fasan  nan  Gall  oirnn  dluth, 
Cota  ruigeadh  an  t-sail,  35 

Cha  tigeadh  e  daicheil  dhuinn : 

280 


TO  THE  HIGHLAND  GARB 

I  saw,  met  in  Dunedin  to-day, 

The  social  kind  association, 
And  the  letter  of  luck  which  did  say 

That  begun  had  our  great  jubilation. 
The  pipes  played  in  tune  charmingly 

On  the  smooth  clear  expanse  of  the  knoll ; 
We  have  brought  our  own  garb  publicly — 

Us  rebels  who'll  venture  to  call  ? 

For  thirty  years,  aye,  more  than  that 

On  our  back  was  a  cloth  cassock  vile, 
A  cloak  we  received  and  a  hat, 

And  that  did  not  suit  us,  that  style ; 
And  buckles  to  fasten  our  shoes. 

The  thong  we  the  prettier  deemed ; 
Our  base  garb  did  us  so  abuse 

That  dotards  our  handsome  youth  seemed. 

Great  part  of  our  shape  it  destroyed 

From  the  ground  to  the  crown  of  our  head ; 
We  were  so  full  of  grief,  and  annoyed, 

That  all  men  grew  sickly,  half-dead. 
But  hardest  by  far  was  the  case 

That  came  at  all  during  my  day, 
When  a  party  in  London  did  this — 

Every  honour  and  place  took  away. 

The  honour  was  lost  a  long  while 

And  the  Lowland  dress  pressed  on  us  hard, 
A  coat  that  would  reach  to  the  heel 

As  becoming  we'd  never  regard : 
281 


DO'N  EIDEADH  GHAIDHEALACH 

B'  eiginn  do'n  bhrigis  bhi  ann, 

'N  uair  a  chaidh  ar  comannd  cho  ciuin 

'S  gu'n  dVinneadh  gach  fine^  'nan  traill 

'S  gach  firionnach  fhagail  ruisgt\  40 

Tha  sinn  a  nis  mar  as  maith  leinn, 

""S  gur  h-ard  ar  caraid  "^s  a**  chuirt, 
A  chuir  air  na  daoin'  am  fasan 

Rinn  parlamaid  Shasuinn  thoirt  diubh : 
Beannachd  gu  brath  do''n  Mharcus  45 

A  thagair  an  drasd'  ar  cuis ; 
Fhuair  e  gach  dlighe  air  ais  duinn 

Le  ceartas  an  Righ  "*s  a'  chruin. 

Fhuair  e  dhuinn  comas  nan  arm 

A  dheanamh  dhuinn  sealg  nan  stuc,  50 

'S  a  ghleidheadh  ar  daoine  ""s  a"  champ 

lie  fagail  an  naimhdean  bruit" : 
Thogadh  e  misneach  nan  clann 

Gu  iomairt  nan  lann  le  sunnt, 
Piob,  is  bratach  ri  crann,  55 

'S  i  caismeachd  ard  mo  ruin. 

Fhuair  sinn  cothrom  an  drasd"* 

A  thoilicheas  gradh  gach  duthch', 
Comas  ar  culaidh  chur  oirnn 

Gun  fharraid  do  phor  nan  lub :  60 

Tha  sinn  a  nis  mar  as  coir, 

Is  taitnidh  an  seol  r'ar  suil ; 
Chuir  sinn  a/  bhriogais  air  lar, 

""S  cha  tig  e  gu  brath  a  cuil. 

282 


TO  THE  HIGHLAND  GARB 

And  there,  too,  must  needs  be  the  smalls, 
When  came  our  enslaving  so  mild. 

And  all  Highland  Clans  were  made  thralls, 
Each  male  naked  left  like  a  child. 


We  now  are  as  we  would  desire, 

And  high  up  at  Court  is  our  friend 
Who  restored  to  the  men  the  attire 

Which  Parliament  from  them  did  rend. 
Blessings  ever  rest  on  the  Marquis 

Who  now  did  our  cause  make  his  own  : 
Every  rightful  claim  got  back  to  us 

With  justice  from  King  and  from  crown. 

He  got  us  the  power  to  go  armed 

To  make  for  us  hunts  on  the  steeps, 
Our  campaigners  keeping  unharmed 

By  leaving  their  foes  all  in  heaps : 
The  courage  he'd  raise  of  the  clans 

To  wield  the  blades  with  merry  move. 
The  bagpipe,  with  streamer  at  drones, 

And  the  loud  marching  tune  that  I  love. 

We  have  got  at  this  present  fair  play 

Which  to  every  land's  love  will  appeal. 
The  power  to  put  on  our  array 

Never  asking  the  wily  brood's  seal : 
We  now  are  arrayed  as  is  just, 

And  pleasing  the  style  to  our  eye ; 
We  have  put  down  the  breeks  in  the  dust — 

They'll  ne'er  come  from  the  nook  where  they  lie. 
283 


DO'N  EIDEADH  GHAIDHEALACH 

Chuir  sinne  suas  an  deise  65 

Bhios  uallach,  freagarrach  dhuinn, 
Breacan-an-fheile  phreasach, 

Is  peiteag  de'n  eudach  ur ; 
Cof  de  chadadh  nam  ball 

Am  bitheadh  sC  charnaid  dluth,  70 

Osan  nach  ceangail  ar  ceum, 

'S  nach  ruigeadh  mar  reis  an  glun. 

Togaidh  na  Gaidheil  an  ceann, 

Cha  bhi  iad  am  fang  na''s  m(), 
Dh'  fhalbh  na  speirichean  teann  75 

Thug  orra  bhi  mall  gun  luth : 
Siubhlaidh  iad  fireach  nam  beann 

A  dh'  iarraidh  dhamh  seang  le'n  cu, 
''S  aotrom  theid  iad  a  dhannsa, 

Freagraidh  iad  srann  gach  ciuil.  80 

Tha  sinn  an  comain  an  ITasail 

A  choisinn  le  chruadal  cliu, 
Chuir  e,  le  teomachd  laidir, 

Faoineachd  chaich  air  chul : 
Oighre  cinn-feadhna  nan  Greumach,  85 

'S  ioma  fuil  ard  'na  ghnuis : 
'S  ann  tha  Marcus  an  aigh 

Am  mac  thig  an  ait  an  Diuc. 


284 


TO  THE  HIGHLAND  GARB 

Upon  us  have  we  put  the  dress 

That  is  gay,  and  to  us  suited  both, 
The  great  belted  plaid  of  the  plaits. 

And  a  waistcoat  made  of  the  fresh  cloth ; 
Coat  of  cloth  of  the  tartan  with  checks 

In  which  the  red  thickly  will  be. 
Hose  which  never  will  trammel  our  pace. 

Within  a  span  reach  of  the  knee. 

The  Gael  will  lift  up  their  head, 

They  will  no  longer  be  in  a  pen. 
Gone  the  tight  fetters  of  thread 

That  made  of  them  slow,  pithless  men  : 
O'er  the  hill  of  the  peaks  they'll  advance     ■ " " ' 

To  seek  the  slim  stags  with  their  hound. 
And  lightly  they'll  tread  in  the  dance. 

They'll  respond  to  each  musical  sound. 

To  the  Noble  beholden  are  we 

Who  earned  by  his  hardihood  fame. 
By  strong-handed  tactfulness  he 

Put  the  folly  of  others  to  shame : 
The  heir  of  the  chiefs  of  the  Graham 

With  much  noble  blood  in  his  face : 
He's  the  Marquis  the  best  of  the  name, 

And  the  son  that  comes  in  the  Duke's  place. 


285 


ORAN  NAM  FINEACHAN 


ORAN  NAM  FINEACHAN  A  FHUAIR  AM 

FEARANN  AIR  AIS  ON  RIGH,  'S  A' 

BHLIADHNA  1782. 

Tha  sgeul  ur  an  trath  so  's  duthaich 

'S  chuir  e  sunnt  ro  mhor  oirnn, 
Gu'n  d'fhuair  ar  cairdean,  mar  a  b'  abhaist, 

Bhi  'nan  aite  comhnuidh ; 
Gach  fearann  arbhartaicht'  a  bh'ann  5 

O  linn  a'  Chaimp  bha  gorach, 
Rinn  na  h-aithrichean  a  chall, 

Ach  fhuair  a"*  chlann  an  coir  air. 

'S  mdr  an  sonas  anns  an  rioghachd, 

Rioghalachd  na  h-6igridh,  10 

A  ghluais  gu  feum,  ri  guaillibh  cheile, 

'S  iad  gu  leir  cho  deonach : 
Cinn-flieadhna  threun,  le'n  daoine  fein, 

Gach  reisimeid  an  ordugh, 
Le  cliu  gun  cheilg,  's  le  durachd  dearbht\  15 

B'  e  'n  run  bhi  'n  seirbheis  Dheorsa. 

Na  laoich  ghasda  dh'eirich  leat 

De  dh'fhior  fhuil  cheart  Chlann  Domhnuill, 
'S  lionmhor  gaisgeach  treubhach,  tapaidh, 

A  thain'  a  mach  'gan  comhnadh :  20 

Rha  buaidh  is  feart,  'nan  ruag,  's  'nam  feachd, 

'Na  dhualchas  ac'  o'n  seorsa ; 
Dol  suas  gu  bras,  le  luathas  nan  cas, 

'S  an  cruaidh-lann  ghlas  'nan  dornaibh. 
286 


SONG  TO  THE  CLANS 


SONG  TO  THE  HIGHLAND  CLANS  WHO  GOT 

BACK  THEIR   LAND  FROM  THE  KING  IN  THE 

YEAR  1782. 

The  news  to  hand  just  now  in  the  land 

Great  joy  to  us  has  given, 
Our  friends  have  got  their  former  lot, 

Their  dwelling-place  to  live  in  ; 
Every  estate  that  was  forfeit 

Since  the  foolish  Campaign  came  on. 
The  sires  complete  made  the  escheat. 

The  sons  recovered  claim  on. 

And  great  the  bliss  in  this  realm  is. 

Youth  loyal  hopes  fulfilling. 
Who  moved  together,  shoulder  to  shoulder. 

At  need  and  all  so  willing : 
Chiefs  of  bold  strain,  with  their  own  train, 

Each  Regiment  in  order. 
With  guileless  fame,  and  proved  good  name. 

Desired  with  George  accord  there. 

The  grand  heroes  with  you  arose, 

The  true  Macdonalds'  blue  blood. 
And  many  heroic,  strenuous,  stoic. 

Came  out  and  by  them  true  stood  ; 
Luck  and  success,  in  action,  chase. 

They  had  by  race  awarded ; 
Advancing  fleet,  with  speed  of  feet. 

They  grasped  the  glittering  hard  blade. 
287 


ORAN  NAM  FINEACHAN 

'S  lionmhor  lasgair  thig  o'n  Apuinn,  25 

Piobach,  bratach,  srolach, 
Fir  chalma  ghasda,  is  arm  'nan  glaic, 

Cho  acfhuinneach  's  bu  choir  dhaibh ; 
Bhiodh  luaidh  a  mach  le  fuaim  nan  snap, 

A'  bualadh  chlach  ri  ordaibh,  30 

Aig  sluagh  le''m  fasan  cruadal  ceart 

'S  a  fhuair  a'  chleachdadh  dg  dhaibh. 

'S  sunntach,  meanmnach,  treubhach,  ainmeil, 

Camshronaich  o  Lochaidh, 
Fir  threin  gun  chealg,  le'm  beus  bhi  garg,  35 

'S  iad  fein  a  dhearbh  gu  leoir  dheth  ; 
Bhiodh  gleus  an  arm  'nan  eibhlean  dearg, 

""S  lann  gheur  gun  chearb  'ga  choir  sin  : 
Bhiodh  reubail  marbh  an  deidh  an  sealg, 

'N  uair  dh'eireadh  fearg  nan  oigear.  40 

''S  lionmhor  curaidh  thig  a  Drumainn, 

Feumail,  ullamh,  ordail, 
Eadar  muileann  Uisge  Thurraid, 

Agus  muUach  Mor-bheinn ; 
Leis  nach  duiHch  dol  an  cunnart,  45 

Tir  is  muir  a  sheoladh  : 
'S  fhuair  iad  urram  bualadh  bhuillean 

Anns  a  h-uile  comhdhail. 

Tha  sar  cheann-feachd  is  laidir  taic, 

A  thig  o'n  Chaisteal  Leodach,  50 

Le  pairtidh  cheart,  's  iad  ard  'nam  beachd, 

A  dh'  fhas  gu  reachdmhor,  foghluimt'. 
288 


SONG  TO  THE  CLANS 

Comes  many  a  strapping  spark  from  Appin, 

Pipe,  banner,  flag  approves  them 
Brave  men  and  grand,  with  arms  in  hand, 

Accoutred  as  behoves  them ; 
Out  lead  would  flash  at  trigger's  crash, 

On  steel  the  flints'  impact  is. 
Troops  of  their  way  have  bravery 

They  got  with  youthful  practice. 

Of  cheery  spirit  and  vigorous  merit 

Are  Camerons  of  Lochay, 
Stout  men  sans  guile  (though  harsh  their  style) 

They  proved  themselves  enough  aye ; 
Their  sword-play  made  the  sparks  fly  red, 

Sharp  flawless  blade  those  raising : 
Rebels  lie  dead,  erewhile  hunted, 

When  youthful  rage  was  blazing. 

Heroes  from  Drummond  come,  when  summoned. 

Ready  at  need,  in  order. 
Between  the  mill  of  Turret  Rill 

And  the  top  of  Benmore ; 
Who  ne'er  complain,  going  amain. 

O'er  land  and  sea  to  venture  ; 
They've  got  applause  for  dealing  blows 

In  every  encounter. 

A  chief  princely,  a  powerful  stay. 

From  Castle  Leod  will  fare  forth, 
With  proper  train  of  lofty  strain. 

Grown  well-trained,  and  of  rare  worth. 

280  T 


ORAN  NAM  FINEACHAN 

Tha  'n  lehhi  pailt  a  dh'eireadh  leat 

Gu  feum  do  neart  a  chomhnadh  ; 
'S  bhiodh  piob  an  gleus  is  ceann  an  fheidh  55 

Le  crann  is  breid  an  t-srol  ris. 


Thig  o'n  Mhoraich  comhlain  bhorb 

A  theid  le  foirm  an  ordugh, 
Gu  dana,  colgail,  Ian  air  storbadh, 

'S  arda  stoirm  an  t-seors'  ud ;  60 

Dol  luath  'nan  eideadh,  cruaidh  r'am  feuchainn, 

Ciall  d'a  reir  an  comhnuidh ; 
Aig  sluagh  nach  geill,  tha  buaidh  'nan  deidh, 

'S  an  uaisle  fein  'ga  chomhdach'. 

Thig  laoich  bharraicht  a  Cinn-alla,  65 

'S  ard  an  air'  air  morchuis, 
Air  mheud  na  carraid,  beus  nam  fear  ud, 

Gleusdachd  far  an  coir  dhaibh : 
An  cliu  bh'  aig  sinnsireachd  nan  gallan 

Cha  chaillear  r'am  beo  e,  70 

Daoine  rioghail,  dileas,  daingean, 

Fior  'nan  gealladh-comhraidh. 

Thig  Clann  Ghriogair  le  sar  mhisnich, 

Anns  a'  mheas  'm  bu  choir  dhaibh, 
Gu  priseil,  aghor,  lionmhor,  laidir,  75 

Rioghail,  statail,  proiseil ; 
Chaidh  riamh  's  gach  aite  dian  'sna  blaraibh 

'S  gniomh  an  laimh  a  chomhdach  ; 
'S  iad  ard  's  a'  chuirt  le  'n  ainm  as  ur, 

Ged  thugadh  dhiubh  'n  Gleann  Freoin  e.  80 

290 


SONG  TO  THE  CLANS 

Their  levy  of  size  would  with  you  rise 
At  need  to  assist  your  forces, 

With  pipes  in  gear,  and  head  of  deer, 
And  drone  whence  silk  flag  courses. 


From  Lovat  chance  fierce  combatants 

Who  in  noisy  order  consort, 
Bold,  full  of  fire,  and  prone  to  ire. 

And  loud  the  storms  of  yon  sort ; 
They  swift,  war-dressed  go  hard  on  quest 

With  sense  according  ever ; 
Hosts  unsubdued,  by  victory  wooed, 

Whose  glory  doth  them  cover. 

Men  who  excel  come  from  Kinnell, 

High  their  regard  for  splendour ; 
Howe'er  fierce  the  fray  "'twas  yon  men''s  way 

Where  duty  lay  to  wend  there : 
The  fame  the  lads'  ancestry  had 

Will  not  be  lost  while  they  live, 
Adherents  royal,  steadfast,  loyal. 

True  to  the  promise  they  give. 


The  Clan  Macgregor  of  dauntless  vigour 

With  their  just  reputation, 
A  loved  and  glorious,  strong  and  numerous. 

Royal,  grand,  proud  nation 
Rushed  hertofore  to  the  fields  of  war, 

Their  handiwork  that  showing. 

Now  high  at  court  with  good  report, 

Which  they  lost  at  Glenfruin. 
291 


ORAN  NAM  FINEACHAN 

Thig  o  Chluainidh  sar  dhaoin'-uaisle, 

Thairngeas  suas  gu  seolta, 
'S  fad  o'n  chualas  gu'm  b"*  e  'n  dualchas, 

Buidhiim  buaidh  a^  chomhraig ; 
Teine  's  luaidhe,  's  lamhan  luatha,  85 

Far  an  gluais  iad  comhla, 
Ruith  'na  ruaig  air  an  luchd-fuathadh, 

'S  an  cur  uatha  bronach. 

Thig  o  Shruthan  na  fir  ura, 

Laidir,  luthor,  eolach ;  90 

'S  o'n  Dubh-ghiubhsaich  theid  gu  siubhlach 

Ann  an  tus  na  doruinn  : 
Luaidh  is  fudar  chur  'na  smuidean, 

Is  fuil  'na  bruchda  dortadh, 
Claidhean  cuil  a  bhi  ""gan  rusgadh,  95 

'S  ruith  gu  dluth  'san  toireachd. 

Thig  na  Cananaich  'nan  deannaibh, 

'S  iad  a'  tional  comhla, 
Theid  ceart  's  a'  chabhaig,  's  neart  da'n  caraid, 

An  dream  as  fearail  dochas :  100 

Ge  b'  e  theannadh  riu  le  falachd, 

Bhiodh  am  barail  gorach. 
'S  mairg  ri'n  tachradh  an  am  gaisgidh 

Aghaidh  neart  nan  comhlan. 

'S  eideach  araiceach  trend  na  h-Alba  105 

Dh'eireadh  sealbh  gu  leoir  dhaibh, 
Gu'm  feud  iad  falbh  gu  saor  fo'n  armaibh 

Is  eudach  ball-bhreac,  boidheach : 

292 


SONG  TO  THE  CLANS 

True  gentlemen  from  Cluny  wend, 

Who  form  with  skilful  tactics, 
Long  since  'twas  heard  a  trait  they  heired 

To  win  the  gree  in  conflicts ; 
Fire,  bullet-drift,  and  hands  most  swift. 

Where'er  they  drew  together, 
In  chase  they  close  upon  their  foes. 

And  rueful  men  send  thither. 

From  Struan's  glen  come  the  fresh  men. 

Strong,  vigorous,  and  expert. 
From  the  Dark  Wood  with  prowess  good 

Rush  at  the  struggle's  first  start : 
Lead  and  powder,  in  smoke  put  thro'  other. 

And  blood  in  belches  bursts  out. 
And  their  backswords  they'll  have  them  bared. 

While  rushing  in  close  pursuit. 

Buchanan  breed  in  haste  will  speed, 

A  fully  mustered  clan,  they 
Go  undelayed  their  friend  to  aid, 

A  hopeful  folk  and  manly : 
Who'd  them  pursued  in  bloody  feud 

Conceived  infatuation. 
Pity  him  who'd  chance  in  valour's  trance 

To  face  the  combination. 

Armed,  strong,  the  band  of  old  Scotland 
And  luck  enough  would  chance  them, 

Whose  gait  might  be  both  armed  and  free 
In  tartan  dress  so  handsome : 
293 


ORANJNAM  FINEACHAN 

O'n  thraogh  gach  fearg,  a  thaobh  gach  cealg, 

Sean  argamaid  a  thoisich,  110 

Tha  gaol  g'a  dhearbhadh,  ''s  feudar  earbs', 
A'  deagh  luchd-leanmhuinn  Dheorsa. 

'S  mdr  an  onoir  th'  aig  an  Righ 

Rinn  dilsean  d'a  luchd-fograidh, 
Thug  dhaibh  a  ris,  gach  aite  prlseil,  115 

Anns  gach  tir  tha  'm  eolas, 
A  bh**  aig  an  sinnsireachd  fo  chisean, 

A  chaidh  g'an  dith  le  foirneart ; 
'S  maith  an  durachd  th'  aig  gach  duthaich 

A'  toirt  cHu  d'a  Mhorachd  !  120 

Na  cinn  cheille  *s  fearr  fo  'n  ghrein, 

Le  'n  inntinn  f^in  a  thoisich, 
Ri  gniomh  an  fheum  a  luaidh  gu  leir, 

'S  a  chur  an  ceill  gun  soradh, 
Le  flathan  feile,  a  labhair  reusan  125 

A  ghleidheadh  steidh  na  corach ; 
Fhuair  gach  oighre  an  ni,  's  an  staoile, 

An  saoibhreas,  's  an  cuid  storais. 

Thainig  coir,  is  dh'fhalbh  an  eucoir, 

Is  leum  ar  cridh'  le  solas,  130 

Tha  uaislean  treun  'san  uair  so  fein, 

Gu  h-uallach,  eutrom,  ceolmhor : 
Tha  'n  tuath  ri  seideadh  suas  tein'-eibhinn 

Air  na  sleibhtean  mora : 
So  a**  bhliadhna  chrun  an  reite,  135 

Sin  an  sgeul  tha  c6mhdaicht\ 


294 


SONG  TO  THE  CLANS 

Since  ebbed  all  bile  and  every  wile 

Which  opens  scores  adjusted, 
Love  this  doth  urge  that  good  King  George's 

Followers  may  be  trusted. 

Great  honour's  due  to  the  King  who 

His  banished  folk  made  friends  true, 
Gave  them  again  each  dear  domain 

Where'er  my  view  extends  to. 
Which  their  sires  stout  for  rents  leased  out 

But  lost  all  through  distraining ; 
Sincere  the  wish  each  district  has 

His  Majesty  to  acclaim  him. 

Clear  heads  confessed  'neath  the  sun  the  best 

Of  their  own  will  begun  it. 
The  act  of  grace  wholly  to  praise, 

To  urge  it,  not  to  shun  it, 
With  princes  suave  who  reason  gave 

To  uphold  the  grounds  of  justice ; 
Each  heir  got  back  their  style  and  stock. 

Their  proper  wealth  and  riches. 

Justice  has  come,  injustice  gone, 

Leaping  with  joy  our  heart  is. 
Gentles  of  power  at  this  same  hour 

Are  proud,  gay,  tuneful  parties : 
The  tenants  light  up  bonfires  bright 

Upon  the  hills  extended : 
This  year's  come  round  that  concord  crowned. 

And  that's  a  tale  that's  ended. 


295 


ORAN  A'  BHOTAIL 


ORAN  A'  BHOTAIL. 

'N  UAiR  a  shuidheas  sinn  socair 
'S  a  dh-61as  sinn  botal, 
Cha  n-aithnich  ar  stoc  uainn 

Na  chuireas  sinn  ann  ; 
Thig  onoir  is  fortan  5 

Le  sonas  a'  chopain, 
Car  son  nach  bi  deoch  oirnn 

Mu'n  tog  sinn  ar  ceann  ? 
Bheir  an  stuth  grinn  oirnn 
Seinn  gu  fileanta,  10 

Chuir  a  thoil-inntinn 

Binneas  'nar  cainnt : 
Chaisg  i  ar  n-iota 
■•N  f  hior  dheoch^  mhilis, 
Bu  mhiiladach  sinne  15 

Na'm  biodh  i  air  chall. 

Deoch-slainte  nan  gaisgeach 
'Nan  Gaidhealaibh  gasda, 
Da'm  b"*  abhaist  mar  fhasan 

Bhi  poit  air  an  dram,  20 

Luchd-gaoil  an  stuth  bhlasda 
""S  air  dhaoireid  an  lacha, 
Nach  caomhnadh  am  beartas 

A  sgapadh  'san  am. 
Fear  'gam  bhei]  ni  25 

Gheibh  e  na  shireas  e, 
Fear  a  tha  crionda, 

Fanadh  e  thall. 
296 


SONG  TO  THE  BOTTLE 


SONG  TO  THE  BOTTLE. 

When  canty  we  settle 
And  finish  a  bottle, 
Well  ne'er  miss  the  total 

Whatever  we  pay ; 
Us  honour  and  fortune 
In  luck'*s  glass  importune, 
Then  why  not  be  sporting 

Ere  we  go  away  ? 
The  fine  stuff  will  make  us 
To  singing  betake  us. 
Its  pleasure  did  wake  us 

To  song  in  our  toast : 
Our  thirst  it  has  drowned, 
The  truly  sweet  round. 
We  were  mourners  profound 

If  it  should  be  lost. 

A  health  to  the  wale 
Of  kind  heroes,  the  Gael, 
Themselves  wont  to  regale 

Drinking  drams  to  the  end : 
Were  the  bill  ne'er  so  tough. 
Lovers  of  the  good  stuff 
Would  not  spare  wealth  enough 

Opportunely  to  spend. 
A  man  who  has  plenty 
Will  get  what  he'll  want  aye, 
The  saving  and  scanty 

Let  him  bide  outby. 
297 


ORAN  A'  BHOTAIL 

Fear  a  tha  miodhoir 

Cha  n-f  hulaing  sinn  idir  e,  30 

^S  am  fear  a'  bheil  grinneas 
Theid  iomain  a  nail. 


■"S  ro  rioghail  an  obair 

Sruth  brioghor  na  togalach, 

loc-shlaint  a  bhogaicheas  35 

Cridhe  tha  gann  ; 
'S  e  chuireadh  an  sodan 
Air  fear  a  bhiodh  togarrach, 
'S  chuireadh  e  ""m  bodach 

A  fear  a  bhiodh  teann.  40 

Cha  n''eil  e  ""san  tir, 
Uasal  no  cumanta, 
Nach  'eil  air  thi 

Gach  urram  a  th''  ann, 
Ged  a  bhiodh  stri  45 

Mu  thogail  na  muirichinn, 
"  Cia  mar  as  urrainn  sinn 

Fuireach  o'  n  dram  ?  '*'' 


Tha  e  fionnar  do'n  chreabhaig 

A  h-uile  la  greine  50 

Thig  teas  o  na  speuraibh 

Thar  sleibhtean  nam  beann  ; 
*S  e  math  ri  la  re6ta 
Chur  blathas  ann  am  poraibh 
An  fhir  theid  d"'a  dheoin  55 

An  tigh-osda  'na  dheann.    i 
298 


SONG  TO  THE  BOTTLE 

The  man  who  is  near 
We  will  not  suffer  here, 
But  the  kind  man  and  dear, 
Quickly  let  him  come  nigh. 


Work  regal  and  right 

Does  the  still's  stream  of  might, 

Tis  a  balm  softens  quite 

Every  mean  heart  and  poor ; 
W^ith  joy  it  were  filling 
The  man  that  were  willing, 
Twould  cast  out  the  deil  in 

The  man  that  is  dour. 
He's  not  in  the  land. 
Be  he  plam  man  or  grand. 
But  is  bent  on  it  and 

All  the  honours  that  cram, 
Though  hard  may  the  struggle  be 
Rearing  the  family. 
How  can  we  possibly 

Bide  from  the  dram  ? 


It  is  cool  to  the  frame 
When  a  sunny  day  came 
And  with  heat  the  skies  flame 

O'er  the  mountains'  steep  waste ; 
For  a  frosty  day  good 
To  warm  cockles  and  blood 
Of  the  brisk  man  who  would 

To  an  inn  hie  in  haste. 
299 


ORAN  A'  BHOTAIL 

Cuiridh  e  sunnt 

Air  muinntir  eireachdail, 

Timchioll  a'  bhuird 

'S  cuid  eile  dhiubh  danns' ;  60 

Thogamaid  fonn  neo-throm 
Is  ceileirean, 
'S  freagarrach  sheinneas  sinn 

Deireadh  gach  rann. 

O'n  shuidh  sinn  cho  fada,  65 

^S  a  dh'ol  sinn  na  bh"*  againn, 
'S  i  choir  dol  a  chadal 

O'n  thainig  an  t-am  ; 
Cha  n-fhoghnadh   ach  pailteas 
Thoirt  solas  d'ar  n-aigne,  70 

Deoch  mhor  anns  a"*  mhaduinn 

Gu  leigheas  ar  ceann. 
Am  fear  tha  gun  chli, 
Cuiridh  e  spiorad  ann, 
Togaidh  e  cridhe  75 

Gach  fir  a  tha  fann  ; 
Theid  am  fear  tinn 
Gu  grinn  air  mhireadh  ; 
'S  e  leigheas  gach  tinneis, 

Deoch  mhilis  an  dram.  80 


3QO 


SONG  TO  THE  BOTTLE 

And  it  will  instil  mirth 
In  the  best  folk  on  earth, 
Some  at  board  with  no  dearth, 

Others  dancing  rehearse ; 
Lively  tunes  let  us  raise 
And  the  sweet  warbled  lays, 
It  in  catches  we  praise 

At  the  end  of  each  verse. 

We've  long  the  seat  pressed, 
And  drunk  all  we  possessed. 
Go  to  sleep  it  were  best 

Since  come  round  has  the  time ; 
Save  plenty  serves  no  less 
Our  nature  to  solace. 
To  make  our  heads'  woe  less 

Comes  the  morn's  draught  sublime. 
Whoe'er  has  no  pith. 
It  will  him  supply  with. 
It  all  hearts  uplifteth 

That  in  sicknesses  sink  ; 
Sick  men  will  proceed 
Finely  to  mirth  indeed ; 
For  all  illness  remede 

Is  the  sweet  dram  of  drink. 


301 


ORAN  A'  BHRANNDAIDH 


ORAN  a;  BHRANNDAIDH. 

L.UINNEAG. 

Di-haal-lum,  di-haal-lum,  di-i'il-i'il^  harmdan, 
Di-dir-ir-i-hal-hVil-him,  di-dir-ir-i-hal-haoi-rum ; 
Di-ii^il-iil  hal-dir-ir-i,  ha-ri-ha'al-haoi-runiy 
Di-YU-haal-dil-il-i^il,  dor-ri-ltd'ol-hann-dan, 

Tha  fortan  ann,  bidh  deoch  againn,  5 

Na  biodh  an  copan  gann  oirnn, 
Tha  pailteas  anns  na  botalaibh, 

Cha  n'eil  an  stoc  air  chall  oirnn ; 
'S  feairrde  sinn  an  toiseach  e 

Gu  brosnachadh  ar  cainnte,  10 

Ged  bhiodh  a  h-uile  deoch  againn, 

'S  e  's  docha  leinn  am  Branndaidh. 
Di-haal-lum,  Sfc. 

'S  e  sin  an  sruthan  mireanach, 

An  tobar  milis  seannsail ; 
Tha  binneas  mar  ri  grinneas  15 

A  chur  spioraid  am  fear  fann  ann. 
'S  feairrde  sinn  na  shireas  sinn, 

Cha  chulaidh  a  mhilleadh  cheann  e, 
■•S  ro  mhath  an  seise  muineil 

Do  gach  duine  ghabhas  rann  e.  20 

Na  fir  anns  a'  bheil  cridhealas, 

Nach  'eil  an  cridhe  gann  ac\ 
Companaich  na  dighe 

A  ni  suidhe  leis  an  dram  iad ; 
302 


SONG  TO  THE  BRANDY 


SONG  TO  THE  BRANDY 

Lay. 

Di-haal-luniy  di-haal-lum,  di-Vil-i'il,  hanndan, 
Di-dir-ir-i-hal-hi'il-liim^  di-dir-ir-i-hal-haoi-rum ; 
Di-zil-z^il  hal-dir-ir-i,  ha-ri-ha'al-haoi-rum, 
Di-i'il-haal-dil-il-iily  dor-ri-ho'ol-hann-dan, 

Theee's  fortune  in't,  we'll  have  a  drink, 

Don't  let  the  glass  be  spared  on  us, 
There's  plenty  in  the  bottles'  clink, 

Their  contents  are  not  wared  on  us ; 
We're  better  of  it  at  the  first 

"  To  kittle  up  our  notion," 
Though  we'd  all  drinks  to  quench  our  thirst, 

The  Brandy's  our  best  potion. 
Di-haal-lum,  Sfc. 

That  is  the  fancy-raising  brew. 

The  lucky  well,  the  sweet  one ; 
There's  flavour  there  and  savour  to 

Put  spirit  in  a  weak  man, 
The  better  we  of  what  we  want. 

No  stuff*  to  set  heads  ringing. 
Right  good  as  a  throat  lubricant, 

Whoe'er  a  stave  is  singing. 

The  men  in  whom  is  jollity. 

Who  nothing  lack  in  mettle. 
Companions  in  potation,  they 

Down  to  their  dram  will  settle ; 
303 


ORAN  A'  BHRANNDAIDH 

larraidh  iad  a  rithisd  e  25 

Mu  bhitheas  beagan  ann  deth, 
'N  uair  chluinneas  iad  an  fhiodhull, 

Bidh  iad  fiughaireach  gu  dannsa. 

'N  uair  gheibh  sinn  de  na  baraillean 

Na  's  maith  leinn  foV  comannda,  30 

Na  cupain  a  tha  falamh 

Bhi  le  searraig  ag  cur  annta  ; 
Gach  caraid  bhios  a'  fcaitneadh  ruinn 

Gu'm  b''ait  leinn  e  bhi  cainnt  ruinn 
'N  uair  thig  a'  ghlaine  bhasdalach  35 

Air  bhlas  an  t-smcair-channdaidh. 

Cha  chunnart  diiinn  e  theireachdainn, 

Tha  seileir  aims  an  Fhraing  dheth.; 
Cha  n'eil  eagal  gainne 

Air  an  loingeas  thug  a  nail  e :  40 

Their  sinne  o'n  bu  toigh  leinn  e, 

Nach  dean  a  choire  call  oirnn  ; 
Air  fhad  's  gu'n  dean  sinn  fuireach  ris, 

Bhi  gabhail  tuille  sannt  air. 

Na  fir  a  tha  ""nan  sgrubairean,  45 

Nach  caith  an  cuid  'san  am  so, 
Cha  n-imir  iad  bhi  cuide  ruinn, 

'Nan  tubaisdean  le  ganntar : 
Cha  sir  iad  dol  an  cuideachd. 

Is  cha  n-iarr  a'  chuideachd  ann  iad  ;  50 

Mur  cuir  am  burn  am  padhadh  dhiubh, 

Cha  n-fhaio'headh  iad  am  Branndaidh. 


3P4 


SONG  TO  THE  BRANDY 

And  they  will  ask  it  yet  again 

Ere  it  be  low,  they  fancy, 
Whene'er  they  hear  the  fiddler's  strain 

And  they  would  fain  be  dancing. 

When  we  shall  from  the  barrels  get 

All  we  wish  in  our  power  o"*  it, 
In  glasses  that  are  empty  set 

From  jars  we  empty  more  o'  it ; 
And  every  friend  who''s  pleasing  us 

We''d  wish  him  speech  to  bandy. 
When  round  comes  the  delicious  glass 

With  the  taste  of  sugar-candy. 

WeVe  in  no  danger  that  it  fail, 

There's  cellars-full  in  France  o'  it ; 
There  is  no  fear  of  want  o'  it  near 

The  shipping  that  it  thence  brought : 
And  since  we  like  it  well,  we'll  say  it, 

'Tis  not  its  fault  will  worst  us ; 
The  longer  that  we  for  it  wait. 

The  more  intense  our  thirst  is. 

The  men  that  are  so  niggardly 

Won't  spend  their  share  to  match  us. 
Along  with  us  they  must  not  be. 

The  poverty-struck  wretches : 
They  don't  seek  into  company, 

The  company  don't  want  them  ; 
Useless  the  burn  their  thirst  allay, 

They'd  never  get  the  quantum. 

305 


RAINN  DO'N  PHADHADH 


RAINN   DO'N   PHADHADH. 

'S  BOCHD  an  deireadh  beatha  bron, 

'S  olc  an  deireadh  oil  padhadh  ; 

'S  muladach  suidhe  mu^n  bhord, 

Gun  an  stop  a  lionadh  fhathast ; 

'S  aighearach  daoin'-uailse  coir  5 

Aig  am  bheil  storas  'nan  lamhan, 

Ni  61  'n  uair  bhios  iad  paiteach, 

'S  a  bheir  paigheadh  do  na  mnathan. 

'S  aoibhinn  's  a'  mhaduinn  a'  chomhdhail 

Thighinn  oirnne  toiseach  an  latha,  10 

Bean-uasal  a  thighinn  g'a  seomar 

A  chur  solas  feadh  an  tighe ; 

Botal  mor  aice  'na  laimh, 

'S  e  dearlan  a  dh'uisge-beatha ; 

'S  61  gu  cridheil  air  a  cheile,  15 

'S  their  i  fein  gur  e  ar  beatha. 

'S  e  fasan  ceart  a's  tigh-thairne 
Misneach  ard  'san  am  gu  caitheamh ; 
Bidh  fear  leis  nach  toil  am  Branndaidh 
Ri  cul-chainnt  oirnn  chionn  a  ghabhail ;  20 

'S  e  their  companach  a'  bhotail, 
Lionar  suas  an  copan  fhathast ; 
'S  mor  na  mhaoidheas  orm  mo  dheoch, 
Ach  's  beag  na  dh'  fhidireas  mo  phadhadh. 
306 


VERSES  ON  THIRST 


VERSES   ON  THIRST. 

At  the  end  of  life  poor  is  griefs  throe, 

And  bad  is  thirst  to  end  a  swill  in ; 
To  sit  around  the  board  is  woe, 

When  not  a  beaker  more  is  filling ; 
Joyous  are  good  men  and  true 

That  have  in  hands  wealth  stored  away. 
Who'll  drink  when  dry  with  no  to-do, 

The  la  wing  to  the  women  pay. 

Pleasant  is  the  morning  meeting 

Us  at  break  of  day  befalling, 
Lady  visits  room  with  greeting 

To  send  comfort  through  the  dwelling  ; 
Her  big  bottle  in  her  hand. 

Enough  and  more  of  usquebae  in, 
Pledging  one  another  bland, 

"  Sirs,  ye  are  welcome,"  she  is  saying. 

In  the  tavern  'tis  the  right  thing 

Timely  to  show  proper  spirit ; 
He  for  brandy  with  no  liking. 

When  we  take  it,  flouts  us  for  it ; 
The  boon  companion,  he's  exclaiming, 

"  Be  the  cup  filled  up  unending ; 
Many  me  for  drink  are  blaming. 

Few  my  thirst  are  comprehending." 
307 


RAINN  GEAKRADH-ARM 


RAINN   GEARRADH-ARM. 

Chunnaic  mi  ^n  diugh  a'  chlach  bhuadhach, 

'S  an  leug  alainn, 
Ceangiaichean  de'n  or  mu'n  cuairt  dhi 

'Na  chruinn  luhaille ; 
Bannan  tha  daingean  air  suaicheantas  5 

Mo  chairdean, 
A  lean  gramail  r'an  seann  dualchas 

Mar  a  b'  abhaist. 

Inneal  gu  imeachd  troimh  chruadal 

Le  sluagh  laidir,  10 

Fir  nach  gabh  giorag  no  fuathas 

Le  fuaim  lamhaich ; 
Fine  as  minig  a  ghluais 

Ann  an  ruaig  namhaid, 
Nach  sireadh  tilleadh  gun  bhuannachd  15 

No  buaidh-larach. 

Bha  sibh  uair  gu  grinn  a"*  seoladh 

Air  tuinn  saile, 
Chaidh  tarrung  a  aon  de  bhorda 

Druim  a'  bhata,  20 

Leis  a"*  chabhaig  sparr  e  'n  ordag 

Sios  'na  h-aite, 
'S  bhuail  e  gu  teann  leis  an  ord  i, 

'S  ceann  dith  fhagail. 

308 


VERSES  ON  ARMS 


VERSES  ON  ARMS. 

I  SAW  to-day  the  stone  of  might, 

The  jewel  splendid, 
Settings  of  gold  around  its  light 

In  cirque  defended ; 
The  blazon  strong  upon  the  banner 

Of  my  kindred, 
Who  firmly  clung  to  their  old  manner, 

As  use  inbred. 

A  device  to  traverse  danger  through 

By  host  untiring. 
Men  who  never  dread  or  panic  knew 

At  sound  of  firing ; 
A  clan  who  often  moved  amain 

Where  foes  did  yield. 
And  no  return  sought  save  with  gain. 

Or  stricken  field. 

You  were  once  serenely  sailing 

On  salt  billow, 
From  a  stave  there  sprang  a  nail  in 

The  boat's  hollow. 
With  all  haste  he  thrust  his  thumb 

Down  the  cleft. 
With  the  hammer  struck  it  home, 
Its  end  he  left. 

309 


RAINN  GEARRADH-ARM 

An  onoir  a  fhuair  an  saor  Sleibhteach,  25 

Leis  gach  treuntas  a  dh'fhas  ann, 
Ghleidheadh  fathast  d'a  shliochd  fein  i 

A  dh'  aindeoin  eucorach  gach  namhaid ; 
Na  h-airm  ghaisge,  ghasda,  ghleusda, 

Dh'  orduich  an  rlgh  gu  feum  dhasan,  30 

Cho  math  's  a  th"*  aig  diiine  'n  dream  threun  sin, 

A  shliochd  Cholla  cheud-chathaich,  Spainntich. 

Dorn  an  claidheamh,  is  lamh  duin'-uasail 

Le  crois-taraidh, 
lolairean  le  'n  sgiathaibh  luatha,  35 

Gu  cruas  gabhaidh, 
Long  ag  imeachd  air  druim  chuantan 

Le  siuil  arda, 
Gearradh-arm  Mhic-Shaoir  o  Chruachan, 

Aonach  uachdarach  Earra-ghaidheal.  40 

Tha  do  dhaoine  trie  air  fairge, 

Sgiobairean  calma,  neo-sgathach ; 
Tha  ""n  aogas  cumachdail,  dealbhach, 

'S  iomadh  armailt  am  beil  pairt  dhiubh : 
Thug  iad  gaol  a  shiubhal  garbhlaich,  45 

Moch  is  anmoch  a**  sealg  fasaich ; 
Cuid  eile  dhiubh  'nan  daoin'-uaisle, 

'S  tha  cuid  dhiubh  'nan  tuath  ri  aiteach. 

'S  rioghail  an  eachdraidh  na  chualas 

Riamh  mu  d'  phairtidh,  50 

'S  lionmhor  an  taic,  na  tha  suas  diubh, 

Na'm  biodh  cas  ort : 

310 


VERSES  ON  ARMS 

What  the  Sleat  wright  won  of  meed, 

With  all  prestige  thence  arising, 
Has  been  still  kept  for  his  seed, 

All  foes'*  injustice  despising ; 
The  coat  of  arms  correct  and  handsome 

Which  the  King  for  his  use  settled, 
Good  as  man  has  of  that  stout  stem. 

Coll,  the  Spaniard,  hundred-battled. 

A  gentle  hand,  a  hand  on  blade. 

With  cross  of  fire, 
Eagles  with  swift  wings  displayed 

For  danger  dire, 
Ship  on  back  of  billows  moving 

With  sails  furled. 
The  arms  of  Maclntyre  of  Cruachan, 

Summit  of  the  Argyll  world. 

Your  men  often  are  seafaring, 

Captains  brave  that  fear  no  harm,  they 
Have  a  graceful,  handsome  bearing. 

Part  of  them  in  many  an  army  : 
Ah !  they  loved  to  tread  hill  country, 

Early  and  late  to  hunt  wilds  swarming  ; 
Numbers  more  of  them  are  gentry. 

Yeomen  some  of  them  at  farming. 

A  kingly  story  all  yet  heard 

About  thy  party, 
A  numerous  stay,  those  that  are  spared. 

Did  fortune  thwart  thee : 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1781 

Tha  gach  buaidh  eile  d'a  reir  sin 

An  Gleann  Nodha  fein  an  tamhachd, 

Piob  is  bratach  is  neart  aig  Seumas, 

An  ceann-cinnidh  nach  treig  gu  brath  sinn. 


55 


The  Arms  of  Maclntyre. 


MOLADH     JDO^N    GHAIDHLIG,    ^S    DON    PHIOB 
MHOIR,  'S  A^  BHLIADHNA  1781. 

Tha  'n  Comunn  Rioghail  Gaidhlige 

An  traths'  ag  cumail  suas 
Cuimhn"'  air  seol  nan  armunn 

A  b'  abhaist  bhi  'ga  luaidh ; 
A'  chainnt  a  dh"*  ionnsaich  iadsan  dhuibh,  5 

'S  i  ghnathaich  sibh  gu  buan, 
Ghleidh  sibh  stoc  na  canain, 

'S  cha  n-fhaillnich  i  uainn. 


Is  solasach  an  cruinneachadh 
Cinn-cinnidh  is  daoin''-uails"', 

Ard  mhdralachd  nam  fineachan 
'S  gach  ionad  tha  mu'n  cuairt ; 
313 


10 


TO  GAELIC,  1781 

Every  suchlike  virtue  claims 

Abode  within  Glenoe,  the  famous  ; 

Bagpipe,  flag,  and  strength  has  James, 
The  chief  who  never  will  disclaim  us. 


Per  Ardua. 
Troimh  Chrudal. 


Motto  in  Latin  and  Gaelic. 


PRAISE  TO  GAELIC  AND  THE  GREAT  BAGPIPE 
IN  THE  YEAR  1781. 

The  Royal  Gaelic  Society 

At  this  time  doth  uphold 
The  memory  of  the  heroes'  ways 

Who  practised  it  of  old ; 
The  speech  the  fathers  taught  you. 

And  you  used  for  many  a  day. 
You  kept,  the  root  of  languages, 

Nor  will  it  fade  away. 

Gladdening  is  the  gathering 

Of  chiefs  and  gentlemen, 
The  most  distinguished  of  the  clans 

In  every  neighbouring  glen ; 
313 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1781 

Onair  a  thaobh  naduir 

G'a  gnathachadh  a  nuadh, 
Gu'n  gleidh  sibh  pioV  mar  b'  abhaist,  15 

Is  Gaidhlig  uUamh,  chruaidh. 

'S  i  'n  labhairt  bha  's  a'  Gharadh, 

Dh'fhag  Adhamh  i  aig  an  t-sluagh ; 
'S  i  chainnt  a  bh'  aig  na  Faidhean 

Thug  fios  Pharrais  dhuinn  a  nuas ;  20 

'S  i  bhruidhinn  a  bh'  aims  an  fhasach, 

^N  am  traghadh  do'n  Mhuir  Ruaidh ; 
'S  i  iiis  am  measg  an  alaich 

Tha  lathair  anns  an  uair. 

'S  i  's  binne  bhi  'ga  h-eisdeachd  25 

Thuirt  beul  na  chuala  cluas ; 
Their  Albainn  agus  Eirinn 

Sasunn  fein  gur  mdr  a  luach ; 
Aon  duin"*  aig  am  bi  feum  oirre, 

Cha  treig  e  i  air  dhuais ;  30 

'S  i  chuis  as  fhearr  gu'n  d'eirich  i 

An  dels  dhi  bhi  'na  suain. 


Bu  mhdr  am  beud  gu'm  basaicheadh 

A'  chanain  as  fhearr  buaidh, 
'S  i  's  treis'  thoirt  greis  air  abhachd  35 

'S  a  h-uiP  ait  'n  teid  a  luaigh ; 
'S  i  's  fhearr  gu  aobhar-ghaire, 

'S  i  's  binne,  blaithe  fuaim ; 
'S  i  ceol  nam  piob  *s  nan  clarsach, 

Luchd-dhan  is  dheanamh  dhuan.  40 

314 


TO  GAELIC,  1781 

Your  natural  advantages 

You  claim  with  fresh  regard, 
You  uphold  the  pipe  as  heretofore, 

And  Gaelic,  crisp  and  hard. 

'Tis  the  speech  was  in  the  Garden, 

Adam  left  it  to  his  own  ; 
Tis  the  language  of  the  Prophets 

Who  the  news  of  Heaven  brought  down  ; 
^Vas  the  talk  was  in  the  wilderness 

What  time  ebbed  the  Red  Sea ; 
Now  'tis  midst  the  generation 

At  this  hour  that  living  be. 

'Tis  the  pleasantest  to  listen  to 

That  mouth  spoke  or  ear  heard ; 
Scotland,  Ireland,  aye  and  England 

Do  its  sterling  worth  regard ; 
And  every  one  that  uses  it. 

It  maugre  bribe  will  keep ; 
And  best  of  all,  it  roused  itself 

After  it  was  asleep. 

Great  were  the  pity  should  it  die. 

The  most  expressive  speech. 
The  strongest  to  give  point  to  jest 

Where'er  its  scope  will  reach  ; 
It  is  the  best  for  causing  mirth. 

Of  the  sweetest,  blithest  tone ; 
The  music  of  the  pipes  and  harps. 

Poets'  and  song-makers'  own. 
315 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1781 

'S  i  's  fhearr  gu  togail  inntinn 

Le  binn-ghuth  comhradh  tlath, 
^S  i  's  sgaitiche  gu  mi-mholadh, 

'S  as  mine  nochdas  gradh  ; 
'N  am  cruinneachadh  nam  miltean  45 

Le  plob  gu  iomairt  lann, 
'S  i  dhuisgeadh  colg  air  oigridh, 

'N  uair  thogta  srol  ri  crann. 

'S  i  piob  nam  feadan  siubhlach 

A  bhuidhneadh  cliu  's  a'  champ  50 

Air  thoiseach  nan  laoch  ura, 

'S  meoir  luthmhor  dluth  'nan  deann  ; 
A"*  chaismeachd  ghasda  shunntach 

Bu  duthchas  di  bhi  ann ; 
"S  pailt  a  nis  as  ur  i,  55 

Ged  bha  i  aon  uair  gann. 

Le  spionnadh  chairdean  Gaidhealach 

Tha  Lunnainn  Ian  a  nis 
Ag  ardachadh  na  Gaidhlige 

A  h-uile  la  mar  thig ;  60 

Aig  feobhas  's  tha  na  h-armuinn 


'Ga  gnathachadh  gu  trie, 
'  e  gaol  gach  duine  ""n  Sasui 
I  bhi  aca-san  'nam  measg. 


A'  chainnt  chaoimhneil,  thaitneach,  65 

Dheas-labhrach,  bhlasda,  bhrisg, 
'S  lionmhor  cliu  tha  'n  taice  ri, 

Fasan  agus  mios ; 

3*6 


TO  GAELIC,  1781 

It  is  the  best  to  lift  the  mind 

With  sweet  voice  of  warm  speeches, 
The  cuttingest  for  things  unkind, 

The  softest  love  that  teaches  ; 
At  the  time  of  gathering  thousands 

With  war-pipe  to  wield  the  blade, 
Tis  it  would  waken  ire  in  youths 

When  flag  at  staffs  displayed. 

Pipe  of  swift-noted  chanters 

In  the  Camp  renown  would  gain 
In  the  van  of  the  fresh  heroes, 

Where  strong  fingers  hurry  amain  ; 
The  lovely  march  and  cheerful, 

"IVas  its  true  place  to  be  there ; 
Now  it  is  plentiful  anew. 

Though  one  time  it  was  rare. 

With  the  mustering  of  Highland  friends 

Full  London  just  now  hums. 
The  Gaelic  elevating  high 

As  every  new  day  comes  ; 
From  the  taste  with  which  the  warriors 

Use  it,  as  oft  they  do, 
Twere  the  wish  of  all  in  England 

That  they  had  it  'mong  them  too. 

The  kindly  speech,  and  pleasant. 
Apt  and  tasteful,  brisk,  unchecked, 

Connected  with  it  is  great  fame. 
And  fashion,  and  respect ; 
317 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1782 

Tha  ceol,  is  Gaidhlig  Alba, 

'S  luchd-seanchais  'gam  beil  fios,  70 

'Gam  foghlum  feadh  nan  Garbh-chrioch, 

'S  'gan  dearbh'  'san  Eaglais  Bhric. 


MOLADH    DO'N     GHAIDHLIG,    'S    DO'N    PHIOB 
MHOIR,  'S  A'  BHLIADHNA  1782. 

Tha  'n  Comunn  uasal,  Rioghail 

A'  sior-chur  seol  an  drasd' 
Air  nadurachd  an  sinnsireachd 

A  thogail  cinn  's  gach  ait : 
A'  Ghaidhlig  air  a  mineachadh,  5 

O's  cinnteach  gur  i  's  fhearr ; 
An  labhairt  phriseil,  churamach, 

Rinn  cumhnanta  ri  Adhamh. 


Tha  gach  duine  'g  innseadh  dhuinn 

Cho  cinnteach  ris  a'  bhas,  10 

Gur  i  bu  chainnt  aig  Noah 

'N  am  seoladh  anns  an  aire ; 
'S  i  uaith  sin  gu  lionmhor 

Aig  gach  linn  ata  ri  fas ; 
'S  cha  teid  i  chaoidh  air  di-chuimhn'  15 

Gus  an  tim  an  tig  am  brath. 

Tha  Ghaidhlig  air  a  lionadh 

De  mhiorbhuilean  gu  leir, 
lulmhor,  fonnmhor,  failteachail, 

Ag  cur  a  graidh  an  ceill ;  20 

318 


TO  GAELIC,  1782 

There's  music,  and  Scots  Gaelic, 

And  litterateurs  who  know. 
And  learn  them  through  the  Roughbounds, 

Do  the  proof  at  Falkirk  show. 


PRAISE  TO  GAELIC  AND  THE  GREAT 
BAGPIPE  IN  THE  YEAR  1782. 

The  noble  Royal  Society 

No  means  now  ever  spare 
Their  forbears'  gifts  of  nature 

To  foster  everywhere : 
As  certain  that  it  is  the  best 

The  Gaelic  is  displayed, 
The  well-loved  speech  and  careful 

Which  with  Adam  covenants  made. 

And  every  man  is  telling  us 

That,  sure  as  death,  prevailed 
That  form  of  speech  with  Noah 

When  within  the  ark  he  sailed  ; 
That  thenceforth  it  abundant  is 

In  every  age  to  come ; 
And  it  will  never  be  forgot, 

TiU  strikes  the  crack  of  doom. 

The  Gaelic  language  is  replete 

With  marvels  altogether. 
Learned,  gleesome,  welcoming, 

Its  love  declaring  ever ; 
319 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1782 

Mire,  's  cluich,  is  gairdeachas, 
Is  manran  anns  gach  beul ; 

Cha  chuala  sinn  an  eachdraidh 
Na's  ceairte  na  i  fein. 


Tha  gach  fasan  Gaidhealach  25 

An  drasd"*  a"*  tighinn  gu  feum, 
Na  deiseachan  a  b'  abhaist  dhaibh, 

'S  a  b'fhearr  leo  aca  fein : 
Coinneamh  anns  gach  aite 

Aig  na  h-armuinn  as  fhearr  beus ;  30 

Gach  duine  labhairt  Gaidhlig  dhiubh  ; 

'S  a'  phiob  a  ghnath  an  gleus. 

'S  i  piob-mhdr  na  h-Eaglais  Brice 

A'  phiob  as  md  meas  an  Albainn, 
Fainneachan  chnamh  air  a  dosaibh,  35 

'S  i  gu  laidir,  socair,  calma ; 
Seidear  "na  mala  an  toiseach, 

Na  lionas  a  corp  le  aineas ; 
Sunntach  an  ionnsramaid  phort  i, 

Is  ard  a  chluinnte  gloc  a  sealbhain.  40 

Tha  i  eireachdail  r'a  faicinn, 

Cha  n'eil  ball  de'n  acfhuinn  cearbach, 
Le  ribheid  nam  binn-ghuth  blasda, 

'S  an  stoc  dreachmhor  air  a  charbhadh ; 
Gaothair  deas,  direach,  gasda,  45 

Anns  na  fasanan  as  fhearr  dhaibh ; 
Seannsair  choimhlionadh  gach  facail 

A  ni  chaismeachd  a  dhearbhadh. 
320 


TO  GAELIC,  1782 

Frolic,  play,  and  joyfulness, 

In  each  mouth  music"'s  tone ; 
We  have  not  heard  in  history 

More  merit  than  its  own. 

And  every  Highland  fashion 

Is  now  taken  to  with  zest. 
The  dresses  they  were  wont  to  have, 

And  they  themselves  loved  best : 
In  every  place  a  gathering 

Of  the  best-bred  heroes — they. 
Each  one  of  them — speak  Gaelic, 

And  the  bagpipes  always  play. 

To  the  great  pipe  of  Falkirk 

Scotland  highest  honours  gave, 
With  rings  of  bones  upon  its  drones, 

'Tis  easy,  strong,  and  brave ; 
That's  first  blown  in  the  bag,  which  heat 

Doth  in  the  whole  promote ; 
A  joyous  instrument  for  tunes, 

Heard  high  the  cluck  o*  its  throat. 

A  handsome  instrument  to  view. 

No  part  of  it  uncouth. 
With  reed  of  tasteful  tones  and  true 

And  shapely  stock  carved  smooth , 
A  fitting  mouthpiece,  straight,  and  nice, 

In  their  best  style  and  state  ; 
A  chanter  voicing  every  word 

The  march  to  illustrate. 

321  X 


DO=N  GHAIDHLIG,  1782 

Tha  i  measail  air  gach  banais 

A  bhitheas  am  fearann  nan  Garbh-chrioch  ;      50 
'S  feairrd'  an  camp  i  'n  am  dhaibh  tarruing, 

Gu  seinn  coimhthional  na  h-armailt : 
'S  maith  i  g'an  dusgadh  's  a'  mhaduinn, 

'S  g'an  cur  a  chadal  mu  anmoch ; 
Tha  i  corr  an  am  an  eadraidh,  55 

^S  e  'm  feasgar  a'  chuid  as  fhearr  dhi. 

'S  Fionmhor  suirghich  aig  an  ainnir, 

Tha  tighinn  ceanalta  'na  tairgse, 
Ge  b"*  e  aca  leis  an  teid  i 

Bidh  eudach  ris  agus  farmad ;  60 

Am  fear  "*gam  bheil  an  dan  a  cosnadh, 

"'S  ann  air  ata  'm  fortan  margaidh, 
lubhrach  nam  pongannan  glana, 

'S  aoibhinn  g'a  leannan  bhi  falbh  le. 

Tha  i  measail  ann  an  Lunnainn,  65 

Fhuair  i  urram  anns  an  tir  so, 
'S  fearr  i  na  torman  na  clarsaich, 

'S  thug  i  barr  air  ckiich  na  fidhle ; 
'S  mdr  an  onoir  th'  aig  a"*  phairtidh 

Nach  leig  iad  gu  brath  a  dhith  oirnn,  70 

Ceol  gun  a  leithid  r'a  aireamh, 

Is  canain  urramach  na  firinn. 

Rogha  gach  cainnt  Gaidhlig  ro  mhaith, 

Tagha  gach  ciuil  sgal  na  pioba, 

'S  ann  a  nis  tha  'n  t-am  gu  tarruing  75 

Aig  ard  luchd-ealaidh  na  rioghachd, 
322 


TO  GAELIC,  1'782 

"^ris  valued  at  all  weddintjs 

That  take  place  the  Roughbounds  way ; 
The  camp  prefers  it  marshalling, 

The  gathering  host  to  play  ; 
'Tis  good  for  wakening  them  at  morn, 

And  late  asleep  to  leave ; 
It  is  excellent  at  noontide, 

But  its  choicest  time  is  eve. 

Suitors  many  has  the  virgin. 

Coming  blandly  her  to  woo. 
Whoe'er  of  them  she  go  with 

Will  have  grudge  and  envy  too ; 
Who  fated  is  to  win  her, 

Has  the  market  fortune  won. 
The  lady  of  the  pure  notes, 

A  glad  lover's  with  her  gone. 

It  is  esteemed  in  London, 

Has  got  honour  in  this  land. 
Better  than  the  hand-harp's  murmur, 

It  excels  the  fiddle's  strand ; 
Great  honour  has  the  party 

Who'll  ne'er  let  us  lose,  in  sooth, 
Music  with  no  worthy  rival. 

And  the  honoured  speech  of  truth. 

Wale  of  all  tongues,  excellent  Gaelic, 
Choice  of  all  strains,  bagpipe's  wail ; 

'TIS  now  the  time  to  draw  nigh 
For  the  gifted  of  the  pale, 
323 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1783 

Le  ceol  siubhlach,  luthmhor,  ealamh, 
Sunntach,  caithriseach,  luath,  dionach  : 

Tha  'n  so  breitheanas  air  thalamh, 

'S  gheibh  gach  fear  a  reir  na  n"i  e.  80 


MOLADH  DO^N  GHAIDHLIG,  ^S  DO^N  PHIOB 
MHOIR,  ^S  A^  BHLIADHNA  1783. 

Tha  sgeul  agam  dhuibh  r'a  innseadh 

Air  ceol  ""s  air  canain, 
A^  toirt  cliu  air  cluiche  pioba 

'S  air  labhairt  Gaidhlig ; 
Tha  'n  drasd'  ag  cinntinn  lionmhor  5 

'S  a  h-uir  aite, 
'G  ardachadh  onoir  na  rioghachd 

Anns  an  d'fhas  sinn. 

■^S  i  th'  aig  gach  ministear  sgireachd, 

""S  gach  tir  araidh,  10 

Toirt  gu  ceart  dhuinn  eachdraidh  Bhiobaill 

An  seol  crabhaidh : 
Tha  i  'm  beul  gach  filidh,  mineachadh 

Ceol-dana ; 
Is  i  as  fhearr  gu  moladh  priseil  15 

'S  gu  fior  chaineadh. 

Tha  i  cruadalach,  cruaidh,  sgairteil 
Do  dhaoin'-uaisle  reachdmhor,  laidir, 

An  am  treubhantais  na  gaisge, 

'S  i  's  deas-fhaclaich  'san  ait  ud ;  20 

324 


TO  GAELIC,  1783 

With  music  swift,  strong,  ready, 

Blithe,  victorious,  quick,  and  steeve ; 

There  is  judgment  upon  earth  here. 
As  each  does  will  he  receive. 


PRAISE  TO  GAELIC  AND  THE  GREAT 
BAGPIPE  IN  THE  YEAR  1783. 

I  HAVE  to  tell  you  a  story 

Of  speech  and  music. 
To  pipe-playing  that  brings  glory 

And  speaking  Gaelic ; 
Which  now  are  growing  apace 

In  every  place. 
The  kingdom  honouring,  too. 

Where  we  grew. 

Each  Parish  minister  uses  it. 

Be  where  he  may. 
Giving  us  rightly  sacred  writ. 

The  pious  way ; 
^Tis  i**  the  mouth  of  every  bard, 

Poetry  inditing ; 
'Tis  best  for  sweet  regard 

And  best  for  flyting. 

It  is  hardy,  hard,  and  clever 
For  robust  strong  gentlemen. 

Boasting  feats  of  valour,  ever 
Is  it  ready- worded  then  ; 
325 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1783 

Tha  i  ciuin  an  cuisean  fialaidh, 

A  chur  an  gniomh  a  briathran  blatha, 

■"S  tha  i  corr  a  sgoltadh  reusain 

Chum  skiagh  gun  cheill  a  chur  samhach. 

Iha  i  iulmhor,  fiosrach,  caoimhneil,  25 

Freagarrach,  faighneachdach,  baidheil, 
''S  measail  a  labhairt  's  a  h-eisdeachd, 

A  chur  gach  deud  air  fiamh  a'  ghaire ; 
A^  sugradh  's  a'  bruidhinn  le  cheile, 

A'  togail  eibhneis,  mir",  is  nianran  ;  30 

Siobhalta,  farasda,  beusach, 

Am  beul  gach  neach  ata  narach. 

Tha  Ghaidhlig,  's  a"*  phiob  ag  eirigh 

Gu  mor  speis  an  tir  nan  Gaidheal ; 
Urram  gach  ciuil  le  deagh  reusan  35 

'S  ann  aig  a**  phiob  fein  ata  e ; 
'S  tormanach,  pongail  a  their  i 

Gach  fonn  ceileir  thig  o  braghad ; 
'S  i  as  binne  's  as  aird'  a  sheinneas, 

Cha  chluinnear  ceol  eile  laimh  ri.  40 

Is  binn  an  nuallan  ud  r''a  eisdeachd, 

'N  uair  a  chuirear  seid  'na  mala, 
'S  a  cheartaicheas  fear  a'  gleis  i, 

Ceart  r''a  cheile  na  duis  arda  ; 
'S  cianail  a  sheinneas  i  cumha,  45 

'S  subhach  a  sheinneas  i  failte, 
Urlar  is  siubhal  gu  siubhlach, 

Is  crunn-luath  mu''m  fuirich  i  samhach. 
326 


TO  GAELIC,  1783 

It  is  mild  in  gentle  seasons, 

In  warm  words  itself  expressing, 

Excellent  for  chopping  reasons 
Unto  senseless  folk's  suppressing. 

It  is  learned,  knowing,  kindly, 

Pat,  inquisitive,  and  loving, 
To  speak  and  list  to  seemly. 

Teeth,  all  sets,  to  laughter  moving ; 
Dallying,  speaking  all  together. 

Raising  joy,  and  fun,  and  chorus ; 
Civil,  easy  and  well-mannered 

In  all  mouths  that  are  decorous. 

Gaelic  and  the  pipes  are  rising 

To  great  liking  in  Gael  land ; 
O'er  all  music  with  good  reason 

Doth  the  pipe  the  praise  command ; 
It  sonorous  speaks,  accenting 

Every  warble  from  its  throat ; 
It  the  sweetest  plays  and  loudest, 

Drowning  every  other  note. 

Sweet  yon  loud  strain  is  to  list  to 

When  i'  the  bag  the  tempest  groans. 
And  the  player  tunes  in  order 

All  together  the  tall  drones ; 
She  sadly  plays  laments, 

A  welcome  joyously  she'll  ply  it, 
Theme,  and  variation  quickly, 

The  finale,  then  stays  quiet. 
327 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1784 

'S  e  'n  da  chuid  i,  ceol  is  caismeachd, 

'S  cridheil  air  astar  's  an  tamh  i  ;  50 

Is  bha  i  riamh  air  beul  gach  caisteil 

Ri  dian  mhacnus  le  ceum  sraide  ; 
Is  leig  iad  aon  uair  i  a  cleachdadh 

Gun  bhi  ac'  ach  an  corr  aite ; 
Tha  i  nis  gu  grinn  am  fasan,  55 

'S  cinnteach  dhi  mairsinn  gu  brath  ann. 

Ban-mhaighstear  gach  inneal  ciuil 

A'  phiob  ur  so  thain'  an  drasd"*  oirnn, 
A  chuireas  fir  ghleusta  gu'n  dubhlan 

Nach  leig  dhiubh  gun  deuchainn  ghabhaidh  ;    60 
Fear  a  buidhne,  bidh  e  cliuiteach, 

'S  onoir  d'*a  dhuthaich  ""s  d'a  chairdean, 
A'  phiob  so  bhi  air  a  ghiulan 

G'ar  dusgadh  maduinn  am  maireach. 


MOLADH  DO^N  GHAIDHLIG  'S  DO^N  PHIOB 
MHOIR,  ^S  A'  BHLIADHNA  1784. 

Inxsidh  mi  sgeul  araid  dhuibh 

Air  canain  is  air  ceol : 
Rogha  na  deas  Ghaidhlig, 

"'S  i  as  fhearr  gu  innseadh  sgeoil ; 
A"*  chainnt  as  lionmhor  pairtean, 

'S  as  milse  manran  beoil, 
Gu  freagarrach,  deas-labhrach, 

■■S  i  ard-chuiseach  gu  leoir. 
328 


TO  GAELIC,  1784 

There"'s  the  two  things,  march  and  pibroch, 

Bhthe  on  journey  or  at  rest ; 
She  was  ever  at  each  castle  gate 

To  pace  the  street  with  zest ; 
Yet  once  her  use  they  abandoned. 

But  did  here  and  there  retain ; 
Now  she's  bonnily  in  fashion, 

Sure,  she*ll  ever  so  remain. 

Queen  of  instruments  the  bagpipe. 

This  one  reached  us  now,  a  stranger, 
And  she  challenges  the  experts, 

Nor  will  let  them  shirk  the  danger ; 
The  winner  will  be  famed,  from  him 

Friends,  country  honour  borrow. 
For  this  bagpipe  he  will  shoulder 

Us  to  rouse  at  morn  to-morrow. 


PRAISE  TO  GAELIC  AND  THE  GREAT 
BAGPIPE  IN  THE  YEAR  1784. 

A  CERTAIN  tale  I'll  tell  you 

Of  music  and  of  speech : 
The  choice  of  ready  Gaelic 

Is  the  best  a  tale  to  teach ; 
A  speech  it  is  of  many  parts, 

The  sweetest  vocal  chime. 
It  is  pat  and  ready-worded. 

And  sufficiently  sublime. 
329 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1784 

''S  i  chainnt  a  bh'  aig  na  righribh 

D'an  robh  'n  rioghachd  so  ""nan  coir,  10 

'S  i  bruidhinn  dhiuc,  is  iarlachan, 

'S  i  dh'iarradh  iad  mu'm  bord ; 
'S  i  bh'  aig  na  daoin'-uaisle, 

'S  a  gheibht^  aig  an  tuath  choir ; 
'S  i  bha,  's  a  tha,  aig  buachaillean,  15 

Ag  cuartachadh  nam  bo. 

'N  uair  a  sg-aoil  na  cainntean 

Aig  Tur  an  aimhreidh  mhoir, 
Fhuair  a'  Ghaidhlig  maighstireachd 

'S  an  am  sin  thar  gach  seors' ;  20 

Gur  i  as  fhearr  gu  teangaireachd 

Tha  'n  ceann  aon  neach  tha  beo, 
Geur,  soilleir,  fonnrnhor,  oranach 

An  seomraichean  an  oil. 

'S  lionmhor  urram  laidir  25 

Fhuair  a"*  Ghaidhlig  air  gach  seol, 
"S  i  rinn  a'  cheud  Sacramaid 

Do'n  Phap  a  bha  'san  Roimh ; 
Is  i  th'  aig  cleir  an  aite  so, 

Gach  la  toirt  comhairP  oirnn  ;  30 

Gaol  filidh  is  luchd-dana, 

Chainnt  nadurra  gun  gho. 

'S  i  fhuair  sinn  o  na  parantan 

A  rinn  ar  n-arach  og, 
'S  i  bu  mhaith  leinn  fhiigail  35 

Aig  an  al  a  tha  teachd  oirnn  ; 
330 


TO  GAELIC,  1784 

It  is  the  speech  the  Kings  had 

Who  this  realm  did  rightly  claim. 
The  talk  of  Dukes  and  Earls, 

Round  the  board  they'd  ask  the  same ; 
The  gentlemen,  too,  had  it. 

With  douce  tenantry  'twas  found  ; 
The  herds  have  had,  and  have  it, 

'Mong  the  kine  while  they  go  round. 

What  time  the  speeches  scattered 

At  the  great  Babel  Tower, 
The  Gaelic  got  the  mastery 

O'er  every  sort  that  hour ; 
It  is  the  best  to  interpret 

In  the  head  of  living  man. 
Sharp,  tuneful,  clear,  and  gleesome 

In  the  chambers  of  the  can. 

Many  a  sterling  honour 

Gaelic  every  way  brought  home. 
It  made  the  first  Communion 

Of  the  Pope  that  lived  in  Rome ; 
The  local  clergy  have  it 

They  who  daily  to  us  preach ; 
Beloved  of  poets,  authors, 

"Tis  a  simple,  natural  speech. 

We  got  it  from  the  parents 

Who  our  young  minds  trained  therewith. 
To  the  race  that's  coming  after  us 

'Tis  it  we  would  bequeath ; 
33^ 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1784 

Tha  h-uile  car  a  dh**  innsinn  oirr' 

Ag  cur  a  pris  am  moid, 
Gur  i  chainnt  as  brioghmhora — 

'S  i  phiob  as  fhearr  gu  ceol.  40 

A'  phiob  ur  so  thainig  do'n  bhaile 

A  dh'fhaotainn  urram, 
'S  i  ceanii  inneal-ciuil  an  fhearainn 

'S  na  duthch''  uile  ; 
Le  meoir  luthmhor  air  a  crannaibh,  45 

'S  le  dluth  bhuillean, 
'S  ard  a  chluinnt'  i,  's  binn  a  langan, 

'S  grinn  a  cumachd. 

Tha  dosan  le  iobhraidh  ballach, 

Cochull  de'n  t-sioda  m'a  muineal,  50 

'S  osgarra,  dionach  a  callan 

Air  thoiseach  mhiltean  air  thurus  ; 
Brosnachadh  rioghail  na  carraid, 

An  cabhaig,  'san  stri,  na  'n  cumasg, 
Cha  bhi  sprochd  'san  tir  am  fan  i,  55 

Is  fortanach  an  ti  d'am  buin  i. 

Is  deo-greine  leis  an  luchd-ealaidh 

Tha  'n  Albainn  gu  leir,  'san  Lunnainn, 
A'  phiob  as  maith  gleus  is  gearradh, 

Laidir,  fallain,  eutrom,  ullamh  ;  60 

'S  mdr  an  t-eibhneas  i  'ga  leannan 

Bhi  aige  'na  sgeith  'ga  cumail, 
Fonn-cheol  reidh  a  ere  na  h-ainnir, 

Beusan  glana  na  treun  chulaidh. 
332 


TO  GAELIC,  1784 

Each  trait  that  I  could  tell  of  it 
But  proves  its  loftier  type, 

Tis  a  most  pithy  speech — 
And  best  of  music  is  the  pipe. 

Townward  came  this  new  pipe  grand 

For  commendation, 
The  chief  instrument  of  the  land. 

Of  the  whole  nation  ; 
From  its  notes  with  fingers  fleet 

And  thick  blows'*  rigour, 
High  "'twas  heard,  its  bellowing  sweet, 

And  fair  its  figure. 

Drones  with  ivory  ringed, 

A  case  of  silk  about  its  neck. 
Its  bold  and  true  voice  winged, 

A-van  of  thousands  on  a  trek ; 
Royal  stirring  to  the  fray. 

In  haste,  or  when  strife  presses. 
There's  no  gloom  where  it  will  stay — 

A  happy  man  who  it  possesses. 

And  a  sunbeam  with  musicians 

In  London,  Scotland  through, 
Is  the  pipe  with  fair  conditions. 

Strong,  light,  wholesome,  ready  too 
She's  a  great  joy  to  her  lover 

Her  in  his  embrace  to  bear 
Smooth  airs  from  her  virgin  body. 

Habits  pure  of  the  stout  fair. 
333 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1785 

'S  e  cheiid  cheol  a  bh"*  air  an  talamh,  65 

A'  phiob-mhor  as  boidhche  guileag, 
'S  i  bh"'  aig  Fionn,  aig  Goll  's  aig  Garadh 

Ann  an  talla  nan  laoch  fuileach ; 
'S  mairg  a  chitheadh  air  seol  calla, 

Caismeachd  chaithriseach  nan  curaidh ;         70 
Mhosgladh  i  le  seid  d'a  h-anail, 

Gu  feum  ealamh,  an  Ilieinn  uile. 

Mo  ghibht  phriseil  gun  a  ceannach, 

Tha  'n  coimhthional  so  air  chumail, 
Breitheachan  dileas  g'an  tarruing,  75 

A  ni  ceart  an  fhirinn  uile ; 
Gheibh  gach  fear  a  re'ir  na  h-ealaidh 

Anns  am  bi  e  fein  'na  urrainn ; 
'S  tha  e  saor  aig  maith-an-airidh 

A"*  phiob  fhaotainn  thar  gach  duine.  80 


MOLADH  DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,   S  DO\N  PHIOB 
MHOIR,  'S  A'  BHLIADHNA  1785. 

So  cruinneachadh  uaislean  measail 

A  tha  cumail  suas  am  fasan 
Na  cainnt  a  tha  buadhor,  fiosrach 

Le  'm  fior  bhrisg  a  chualas  eachdraidh ; 
Tha  i  luath  's  cha  n'eil  i  Hodach, 

'S  tha  i  cruaidh  ma  labhrar  ceart  i, 
'S  cha  n'eil  a  luchd-fuatha  bitheant', 

'S  i  bha  trie  aig  luchd  nam  breacan. 
334 


TO  GAELIC,  1785 

First  music  that  on  earth  was, 

Great  pipe  of  the  bonniest  strain, 
Fionn  had  it,  Goll,  and  Garadh 

In  the  hall  of  bloody  men  ; 
He  is  dull  who  could  see  tamely 

War  march  of  the  heroes  keen  ; 
With  a  blast  o**  its  breath  'twould  wake 

To  instant  action  all  the  Feen. 

'Bout  a  precious  gift  and  unbought 

Is  convened  this  meeting  high. 
And  upright  j  udges  chosen, 

Who'll  the  whole  truth  certify ; 
Each  man  who'll  get  according 

To  the  tune  he  shows  his  best ; 
And  'tis  open  to  desert 

To  gain  the  pipe  o'er  all  the  rest. 


PRAISE  TO  GAELIC  AND  THE  GREAT 
BAGPIPE  IN  THE  YEAR  1785. 

This  gathering  of  true  gentlemen 

Uphold  in  their  regard 
The  gifted  speech  and  pregnant 

With  the  verve  that  story  heard ; 
'Tis  quick,  it  is  not  stammering, 

Distinct,  if  rightly  spoke. 
Its  haters  are  infrequent, 

Oft  'twas  used  by  plaided  folk. 
335 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1785 

Canain  gun  truailleadh  gun  mheasgadh, 

'S  Gaidheil  d'an  dual  i  bhi  aca,  10 

'S  nadurra  da  fuaim  bhi  measail, 

'S  misneachail  an  sluagh  a  chleachd  i ; 
Cainnt  mhathaireil  gun  bhruaidlein  idir, 

Ach  bhi  Ian  de  shuairceas  tlachdmhor, 
Ceol-gaire  d'a  luaidh  gu  minig,  15 

'S  luchd-dana  'ga  luath  chur-seachad. 

Tha  Lunnainn  gle  ard  am  misneach 

Le  spionnadh  nan  Gaidheal  gasda, 
A  fhuair  urram  's  gach  ait  an  sirf  iad, 

Na  curaidhean  calma,  reachdmhor ;  20 

A  tha  gabhail  curam  riochdail, 

A  chumail  na  rioghachd  neartmhor, 
'S  dh**  orduich  gu  siorruidh  nach  brisear, 

Gaidhlig,  piobaireachd,  is  bratach. 

Tha  uaislean  Dhun-eideinn  le  gliocas,  25 

Gu  rioghail,  ro  bheartach,  tlachmhor ; 
Cha  n-fheud  eucoir  bhi  'nam  measg-san, 

'S  ann  dhaibh  fein  is  leir  an  ceartas ; 
Ris  an  fheumach  tha  iad  iochdmhor, 

Is  air  na  beisdean  tha  iad  smachdail,  30 

An  am  treubhantais  no  trioblaid, 

'S  mairor  a  theannadh  ri  leum  tharta. 

o 

Co  theannadh  ri  leum  thairis 

Air  na  laochaibh  fearail,  treubhach  ? 

Na  Gaidheil  ardanach,  uaibhreach,  35 

■"S  iad  laidir  ri  guaillibh  a  cheile ; 
33^ 


TO  GAELIC,  1785 

Language  without  meanness,  mixture 

Gaels  hereditarily  have, 
Its  natural  sound  is  proper, 

And  the  folk  that  used  it  brave ; 
Mother  speech  quite  without  dool, 

Twas  hers  glad  accents  oft  to  say, 
Of  polished  pleasure  full. 

Her  poets  soon  while  time  away. 

London''s  very  high  in  courage 

With  the  might  of  the  handsome  Gael, 
Honoured  wheresoever  invited 

Are  the  heroes  brave  and  hale ; 
Who  are  taking  active  measures 

Strong  the  kingdom  to  maintain 
And  ordained  that  aye  unbroken 

Gaelic,  piping,  flag  remain. 

Wise  are  Edina's  gentry. 

Royal,  wealthy,  full  of  cheer ; 
Wrong  amid  them  might  not  flourish, 

And  to  them  the  right  is  clear ; 
To  the  needy  theyVe  compassionate. 

The  rabble — down  they  keep  them, 
In  time  of  war  or  trouble. 

Woe  to  him  would  dare  o'*erleap  them. 

Who  would  venture  to  o''erleap  them 
The  manly  men,  none  bolder  ? 

The  spirited  high-minded  Gael, 
Strong  shoulder  unto  shoulder ; 

337  > 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1785 

A  chuireadh  crith  air  each  le  fuathas, 

An  am  bhiialadh  nan  lann  geura, 
""S  mairg  air  an  cromadh  na  Tuathaich, 

Comunn  cruadalach  nach  geilleadh.  40 

Tha  gach  car  tha  tighinn  mu''n  cuairt  dhaibh 

An  traths^  is  buadhmhoire  na  cheile, 
Am  fearann  a  chaidh  a  thoirt  uatha, 

Gu'n  d'fhuair  iad  uile  gu  leir  e ; 
Bidh  gach  dligheach  far  ^m  bu  dual  dhaibh,         45 

""S  uachdarain  air  an  cuid  fein  iad ; 
Bidh  na  h-6ighreachan  suas  dheth, 

'S  cha  bhi  tuathanach  'na  eiginn. 

'N  uair  a  sheallas  sinn  air  ar  falluing, 

Bheir  sinn  beannachd  air  a'  Ghreumach  50 

Is  air  Mac  Shimidh  mdr  na  Moraich, 

Sin  am  morair  bu  mhath  feum  dhuinn  ; 
'S  a"  chuirt  a  b'  airde  bha  'n  Lunnainn, 

Fhuair  iad  ann  urram  is  eisdeachd ; 
'S  tha  'n  rioghachd  uile  'nan  comain,  55 

Fhuair  iad  dhuinn  comas  ar  n-eideadh. 

Tha  coimhthionail  rioghail  Ghaidheal, 

An  traths  am  baile  Dhun-eideinn, 
Ag  cumail  am  pris  na  Gaidhlig, 

A  thaobh  naduir  os  cionn  Beurla ;  60 

'S  ag  gleidheadh  piob-mhor'  mar  b'  abhaist' 

Os  cionn  clarsaich,  na  ceol  theudan, 
'S  an  da  thoil-inntinn  sin  fhagail 

Aig  an  alach  thig  'nar  deidh-ne. 


338 


TO  GAELIC,  1785 

Who'd  make  others  shake  with  terror 

When  they're  clashing  the  sharp  brands- 
Pity  him  the  Northmen  pounce  on, 
The  unyielding  hardy  bands. 

Each  event  that  comes  round  on  them 

Is  more  lucky  than  another, 
The  land  which  was  ta'en  from  them 

TheyVe  recovered  altogether ; 
Each  claimant  where  his  right  declares, 

Lairds  on  their  own  estate, 
A  competency  for  the  heirs, 

The  farmer  in  no  strait. 

When  we  look  upon  our  garments. 

Well  say  blessing  on  the  Graham 
And  the  great  Lord  of  I^ovat, 

Of  good  use  to  us  these  same ; 
In  the  highest  court  in  London 

They  got  honoured  audience  there, 
All  the  kingdom  is  obliged, 

They  got  us  power  our  dress  to  wear. 

The  Royal  Highland  gathering 

Is  now  in  Dunedin  toon. 
Appreciating  Gaelic, 

English  naturally  aboon ; 
And  as  wont  the  great  pipe  keeping 

Above  harp  or  strings  abrace. 
And  bequeathing  these  two  pleasures 

To  our  own  succeeding  race. 


339 


DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  1789 


MOLADH  DO'N  GHAIDHLIG,  'S  DO'N  PHIOB 
MHOIR,  'S  A'  BHIJADHNA  1789. 

Brosnachadh  cluiche  na  pioba 

Dh'  innsinn  pairt  deth, 
An  toiseach  a  gleusadh,  'n  uair  a  lionar 

Seid  'na  mala ; 
Fonnmhor,  freagarrach  g'a  cheile  5 

Na  duis  arda, 
Lan  toil-inntinn  do'n  luchd-eisdeachd 

Bhios  'ga  claistinn. 

Piob  uallach  na  maidean  reidhe 

'S  nan  ceanna  cnamha,  10 

De  'n  fhiodh  chruaidh  thig  a  Semeuca, 

'S  fhearr  tha  fas  ann  ; 
Air  a  thuairnearachd  cruinn,  direach, 

lobhuireach,  fainneach, 
Gaoithearach,  feadanach,  finealt'  15 

Le  binne  chaileachd. 

'S  freagarrach  a'  chuid  a  steach  dhith, 

'S  tha  'n  taobh  mach  dhith  dreachor,  daicheil, 
Tonnagach,  ribineach,  rlomhach, 

Dosan  de'n  t-sioda  ri  srannraich,  20 

Mu  mhuineal  nam  buaidhean  priseil, 

Cumail  dion'  air  a  min  bhraghad, 
Cuilc  'na  slugan  tha  'ga  lionadh, 

Air  a  dhionachadh  le  snaithean. 
340 


TO  GAELIC,  1789 


PRAISE  TO  GAELIC  AND  THE   GREAT 
BAGPIPE  IN  THE  YEAR  1789. 

To  help  piping  Fd  make  known 

Some  detail, 
First  its  tuning,  when  is  blown 

In  bag  a  gale ; 
All  accord  in  tuneful  measure 

The  tall  drones, 
To  the  listeners  perfect  pleasure 

Give  the  tones. 

Gay  pipe  of  the  sticks  smooth 

And  heads  of  bone. 
Hard  wood  of  Jamaica  growth, 

The  best  there  grown ; 
Lathe-turned,  and  round,  and  straight. 

Ivory-ringed, 
Mouthpiece,  chanter,  all  ornate. 

With  sweet  sound  winged. 

Suiting  the  part  of  it  within 

Is  its  outside  fair,  becoming, 
Plaided,  beribboned,  fine, 

Drones  of  Lh-^  silk  flag  booming, 
Round  the  neck  o'  the  dear  that's  trilling. 

Keeping  guard  o'er  her  throat  slender, 
A  reed  her  gullet  filling. 

And  threads  all  secure  to  render. 
341 


DCN  GHAIDHLIG,  1789 

*S  i  phiob  ur  a  tha  'n  Dun-eideann, 

Eibhneas  Ghaidheal, 
Inneal-ciuil  as  fhearr  fo'n  ghrein 

Le  reusan  araid ; 
Tha  i  snasmhor,  maiseach,  finealt', 

Cuimir,  dreachmhor,  dioiiach,  laidir, 
Gu  binne,  boidheach,  seocail,  ceutach, 

Ceolmhor,  eutrom,  eibhinn,  aluinn. 

Piob  a  chuireadh  sunnt  gu  mire, 

Fonn  is  farum, 
Air  gach  diuc  is  ard  cheann-cinnidh, 

'S  oighre  fearainn ; 
Bidh  gach  duin'-uasal  'ga  sireadh 

Gu  togail  a  shluaigh  's  a'  charraid, 
An  am  tarruing  a  suas  gach  fine 

Dhol  a  bhualadh  nan  cruaidh  lannan. 

Ceol  as  rioghaile  's  as  sine, 

Chuala  sinne  bhi  air  thalamh, 
Ceol  as  brighmhoire  's  as  binne, 

'S  as  grinne  thug  meoir  a  crannaibh ; 
Cha  chualas  neach  riamh  a  dhi-mol 

Dreach  is  deanadas  na  h-ainnir ; 
'S  fhuair  i  cliu  le  beul  gach  filidh 

A  bha  's  duthaich  b'  fhiach  gu  rannan. 

Tha  'n  rioghachd  Ian  eibhneis  uile, 
'S  Dun-eideann  gu  trie  ""nan  aire, 

Liuthad  treun-fhear  th'  ann  ag  cumail 
Reachd  is  reusan  a  chomh-thionail ; 

342 


TO  GAELIC,  1789 

The  new  pipe  that  Edina  won, 

Joy  of  Gaels, 
The  instrument  ""neath  the  sun 

That  best  avails ; 
It  is  beauteous,  neat,  and  fine, 

Handsome,  graceful,  strong,  true-sounded. 
Sweet,  bonny,  stately,  prime, 

Tuneful,  joyous,  light,  and  splendid. 

It  adds  zest  to  frolic  free. 

Tune,  rhythm  grand, 
To  Dukes,  chiefs  of  degree, 

And  heirs  of  land ; 
Sought  by  every  gentleman 

In  the  war  to  rouse  his  bands  with, 
When  drawing  up  each  clan 

To  go  to  clash  the  hard  steel  brands  with. 

Music  the  kingliest,  the  oldest. 

We  have  heard  of  being  on  earth. 
Music  the  tunefulest,  the  boldest. 

Nicest  notes  e"*er  fingered  forth ; 
Never  dispraise  touched  her  name. 

Her  maiden  form,  or  maiden  deed ; 
Of  all  poets  she  got  fame 

Whoe^er  deserved  a  poet's  meed. 

All  the  realm  full  joy  is  reaping. 

Oft  Edina's  in  their  view. 
So  many  stalwarts  keeping 

There  both  law  and  reason,  too ; 
343 


AOIR  UISDEAN 

Cainnt  as  geire  chuala  duine, 

'S  urramach  gach  beul  a  chanas, 
A'  chanain  ata  reidh,  uUamh,  55 

Beusach,  furanach,  gle  ealamh. 

'S  onair  do'n  Ghaidhealtachd  turus 

Na  thainig  an  drasd'  do'n  bhaile, 
Chumail  am  pris  brigh  an  t-seanchais, 

Tha  farmadach  leis  na  Gallaibh ;  60 

Gaidhlig  Albannach  nan  curaidh, 

'S  a'  phiob,  ban-mhaighstir  gach  ealaidh, 
An  ceol  's  a'  chainnt  a  fhuair  gach  urram, 

As  luaithe  bh'ann  ^s  as  fhaide  mhaireas. 


AOIR  UISDEAN  PHIOBAIR\ 

Turus  a  chaidh  mi  air  astar 

A  Chinn-taile, 
Chunna'  mi  daoin'-uaisle  tlachdmhor, 

Caoimhneil,  pairteach ; 
Bha  aon  bhalach  ann  air  banais  5 

A  thug  dhomh  tamailt, 
O'n  a  bha  esan  mar  sin  domh-sa, 

Bidh  mise  mar  so  dhasan. 

*S  ann  an  sin  a  thoisich  Uisdean, 

Mar  a  ni  cu  an  droch  naduir,  10 

Tabhannaich  ri  sluagh  na  duthcha, 

'S  b"*  e  run  gu'n  gearradh  e  'n  sailtean ; 
344 


SATIRE  ON  HUGH 

Speech  the  sharpest  heard  by  man, 
Honoured  all  the  mouths  it  knowing, 

The  tongue  that's  smooth,  and  ready. 
Mannered,  hearty,  quick  and  flowing. 

On  a  tour  to  Gaeldom's  glory 

All  have  come  just  now  to  town, 
To  enhance  brave  Highland  story, 

Lowlanders  with  envy  frown  ; 
Scottish  Gaelic,  speech  of  heroes. 

Pipe,  all  music  that  surpassed. 
Music,  tongue  have  got  all  honour. 

They  were  first,  they'll  longest  last. 


SATIRE  ON  HUGH  THE  PIPER. 

On  a  tour,  when  I  went  faring 

To  Kintail, 
I  saw  genial  men,  not  sparing 

To  regale ; 
There  was  one  youth  at  a  marriage 

Showed  me  animus. 
Since  he  did  me  so  disparage, 

I  treat  the  zany  thus. 

'Twas  there  that  Hugh  did  ettle, 
As  a  surly  dog  does,  yapping 

At  the  heels  of  country  people 
He's  a  notion  to  be  snapping ; 
345 


AOIR  UISDEAN 

'S  math  an  companach  do'n  chu  e, 

'S  dona  'n  companach  le  each  e, 
Cha  chuideachd  e  bhard  no  phiobair  15 

Aig  a  mhiomholachd  's  a  dh'fhas  e. 

Aidich  fhein  nach  "'eil  thu  'd  phiobair, 
'S  leig  dhiot  bhi  'm  barail  gur  bard  thu ; 

Daoine  cridheil  iad  le  cheile, 

'S  bithidh  iad  gu  leir  a'  tair  ort ;  20 

Fear  ciuil  gun  bhinneas,  gun  ghrinneas, 
Fuadaichidh  sinn  as  ar  pairt  e, 

Mar  a  thilgeas  iad  craobh  chrionaich 

0  'n  fliionan  a  mach  as  a'  gharadh. 

Ma  chi  thusa  bard  na  filidh  25 

No  fear  dana, 
Ma  bhios  aon  diubh  'g  iarraidh  gille 

Ghiulan  malaid, 
Lean  an  duine  sin  le  durachd 

Los  gu'n  siubhladh  tu  h-uil'  aite ;  30 

'S  m(5r  an  glanadh  air  do  dhuthaich, 

1  chur  cul  riut  's  thu  g'a  fagail. 

No  ma  chi  thu  fear  a  sheinneas 

Piob  no  clarsach, 
Feudaidh  tus'  an  t-inneal  ciuil  35 

A  ghiulan  dasan, 
Gus  am  bi  craiceann  do  dhroma 

Fas  'na  bhallaibh  loma,  bana, 
Mar  a  chi  thu  milleadh  srathrach 

Air  gearran  a  bhios  ri  aiteach.  40 

346 


SATIRE  ON  HUGH 

He  is  good  as  dog's  companion, 
Others  with  him  will  dispense, 

Bard  or  piper's  peer,  no  never  ! 
Grown  so  great  in  insolence. 

Own  yourself  you  are  no  piper. 

You  a  bard  !  the  thought  abandon  ; 
Hearty  men  are  they  together, 

But  it's  you  they  cannot  stand,  man ; 
A  musician  tuneless,  tasteless. 

From  our  set  we  are  discarding. 
As  they  throw  a  branch  that's  withering 

From  the  vine  out  of  the  garden. 

See  you  poet,  bard,  or  man 

Literary  ? 
One  that  seeks  a  lad  that  can 

A  wallet  carry  ? 
With  a  will  cleave  to  such  gentry. 

And  go  anywhere  whatever, 
A  great  riddance  to  your  country. 

She  disowns  you,  and  you  leave  her. 

Or  if  you  see  a  player 

On  instrument. 
Pipe  or  harp  for  him  to  bear 

Be  content. 
Till  the  skin  upon  your  back  is 

Grown  to  spots  as  bare  and  bony 
As  you  see  the  harness  bruises 

On  a  farmer's  working  pony. 
347 


AOIR  UISDEAN 

Cia  mar  a  dheanadh  e  oran 

Gun  eolas,  gun  tuigse  naduir  ? 
O  nach  deanadh  e  air  doigh  e 

'S  ann  bu  choir  dha  fuireach  samhach ; 
Bruidhinn  ghlugach  's  cuid  dith  mabach,  45 

Mdran  stadaich  ann  am  pairt  dith ; 
Na  ni  e  phlabartaich  chomhraidh, 

Cha  bheo  na  thuigeas  a  Ghaidhlig. 

Sgimealair  cheanna  nam  bord  thu 

Far  am  faigh  thu  'n  t-61  gun  phaigheadh ;         50 
Cia  mar  chunntas  sinn  na  geocaich 

Mur  bi  Uisdean  6g  'san  aireamh  ? 
Cha  robh  do  bhru  riamh  aig  siochaidh, 

Gus  an  lionadh  tu  bhiadh  chaich  i ; 
'S  mor  an  tolc  na  chaisgeadh  V  iotadh,  55 

'N  uair  chit'  thu  's  do  ghloc  paiteach. 

'S  trie  do  leab'  an  lag  an  otraich, 

Na'n  cul  garaidh, 
Bidh  do  cheann  air  con-tom  comhnard, 

'S  ro  mhath  'n  t-ait  e ;  60 

Bidh  na  coin  ag  imlich  t'fheosaig, 

A'  toirt  diot  a'  bheoil  's  sC  chairean, 
Do  chraos  dreamach  toirt  phog  salach 

Do  d'  dhearbh-bhraithrean. 

Na'n  cluinneadh  sibh  muc  a'  rucail,  65 

Geoidh  is  tunnagan  a'  racail, 
'S  ann  mar  sin  a  bha  piob  Uisdean, 

Bronach,  muladach  a'  ranaich  ; 

348 


SATIRE  ON  HUGH 

How  could  he  frame  composition, 

With  no  common  sense  and  sly  wit  ? 
Since  he  cannot  in  right  fashion, 

Tis  his  duty  to  stay  quiet ; 
Stammering  talk,  and  some  part  stutters, 

Great  part  halting,  too,  and  doubt ; 
And  his  Gaelic,  while  he  mutters. 

Can  no  living  soul  make  out. 

Guest  unbidden  at  each  table. 

Where  you  gratis  drink  a  bumper ; 
Sum  up  gluttons  who  is  able. 

With  young  Hugh  not  in  the  number  ? 
For  at  peace  ne'er  was  your  belly 

Till  to  others'  food  you  helped  it ; 
A  great  burst  your  thirst  to  allay. 

When  'twas  seen  how  quick  you  gulped  it. 

Oft  your  bed  is  in  the  jawhole, 

Or  back  o'  the  yard. 
Your  head  rests  upon  plain  dogknoU, 

A  place  well  deserved. 
The  dogs  your  beard  are  licking, 

Cleaning  mouth  and  gums  they  are,  man. 
Your  cross  mug  gives  dirty  kisses 

To  your  very  brothers-german. 

If  ye  should  hear  pigs  grunting. 

Or  the  geese  and  ducklings  rackling, 

It  was  e'en  so  were  Hugh's  bagpipes 
Gloomily  and  sadly  cackling ; 
349 


AOIR  UISDEAN 

Muineal  gun  aolmann  air  tuchadh, 

'N  ribheid  cha  n-fhaod  a  bhi  laidir,  70 

'S  e  call  daonnan  air  a  chulaibh 

Na  gaoith"*  bu  choir  bhi  dol  's  a'  mhala. 

Bha  lurga  coin  air  son  gaothair' 

Ad  chraos  fairsing, 
'S  culaidh  sin  a  thogail  plaigh'  75 

■"S  an  cnaimh  air  malcadh ; 
Rinn  e  t"*  anail  salach,  breun, 

Ma  theid  neach  fo'n  ghrein  an  taic  riut, 
"^S  fhearr  bhi  cadar  thu  's  a"  ghaoth, 

Na  seasamh  air  taobh  an  fhasgaidh.  80 


'&" 


Cia  mar  a  ni  Uisdean  6g  dhuibh 

Ce6l  gu  dannsa, 
'N  uair  a  chitheadh  tu  sruth  ronn 

O'n  h-uile  toll  a  bh"*  air  an  t-seannsair : 
'S  sgeul  tha  fior  a  dh'innseas  mise,  85 

Gur  h-e  dhYhag  e  nis  cho  manntach, 
Gu'n  tug  iad  dheth  leis  an  t-siosar 

Barr  na  teanga. 

Seididh  Uisdean  piob  an  rongain, 

'S  mdr  a  h-antlachd,  90 

Bithidh  i  cosmhail  ri  gaoir  chonnspeach 

A  bhiodh  an  cnoc  fraoich  a'  dranndail ; 
An  Circe-poll  laimh  ri  Tonga, 

A**  baigearachd  air  muinntir  bainnse, 
Fhuair  mise  piobair'  an  rumpuill,  95 

'S  dh'fhag  mi  ann  e ! 


350 


SATIRE  ON  HUGH 

Neck  hoarse,  wanting  grease,  the  tone 
It  could  not  well  be  strong,  the  wind, 

That  should  to  the  bag  have  gone, 
It  was  escaping  aye  behind. 

For  a  mouthpiece  you  had  dogshank 

In  mug  wide, 
A  bone  that  might  raise  plague,  stank, 

Putrified. 
It  made  your  breath  foul,  fetid ; 

Came  one  "'neath  the  sun  you  beside. 
Best  to  windward  situated 

Than  be  standing  on  your  lee-side. 

How  shall  young  Hugh  play  you  a  canter 

Of  dance  music, 
When  you  see,  each  hole  in  chanter. 

Slavers  ooze  thick  ? 
'Tis  a  true  tale  that  I  say,  sirs. 

It  left  him  stuttering  so  unstrung 
That  they  took  from  him  with  scissors 

The  point  of  his  tongue. 

Hugh  will  blow  the  pipe  of  ring-hasps, 

A  great  disgust  its  bumming. 
It  is  like  the  buzz  of  sting-wasps 

Upon  a  heath  knoll  humming. 
'Twas  at  Kirkiboll  near  Tongue,  where, 

Sorning  off  a  wedding  party 
The  rump  piper  there  I  found, 

And  there  I  left  him,  far  from  hearty. 


351 


AOIR  ANNA 


AOIR  ANNA. 

Anna,  nighinn  Uilleam  an  Cromba, 

Bean  gun  chonn  's  i  fhein  air  aimhreith, 

'N  uair  chaidh  mi  'n  toiseach  g'a  sealltainn 

Cha  n-e  'm  fortan  a  chuir  ann  mi ; 

Bhruidhinn  mise  samhach,  socair,  5 

Mar  dhuin'-uasal  anns  an  am  sin ; 

Thoisich  ise  mar  chu  crosda, 

Bhiodh  anns  na  dorsan  a'  dranndail. 

^S  ann  aice  tha  beul  na  sgallais 

Gu  fanaid  a  dheanamh  air  seann-duin'  10 

Nach  urrainn  a  dheanamh  feum  dhi 

Mar  a  bha  i  fein  an  geall  air ; 

Chunna'  mise  latha  ghluaisinn 

Leis  na  gruagaichean  mar  chairdeas ; 

Dh'aithnich  i  gu'n  d'fhalbh  an  uair  sin,  15 

■"S  chuir  i  uaithe  mi  le  angar. 

Innsidh  mi  dhuibh  teisteas  Anna, 
O'n  is  aithne  dhomh  'san  am  i, 
Bean  a  dh'61  a  peighinn  phisich, 
Cha  bheo  idir  gun  an  dram  i ;  20 

Cha  neonach  leam  i  bhi  misgeach, 
'S  i  'n  comhnuidh  am  measg  a'  bhranndaidh, 
'S  trie  a  bha  ''na  broinn  na's  leoir  dheth, 
""S  bha  tuille  's  a  choir  'na  ceann  deth. 
352 


SATIRE  ON  ANNA 


SATIRE   ON   ANNA. 

Anna,  Will  in  Croniba's  daughter, 

Senseless  woman,  and  untidy, 
When  at  first  I  went  to  see  her, 

'Twas  not  luck  that  there  did  guide  me ; 
I  spoke  civilly  at  that  time 

Like  a  gentleman  not  quarrelling. 
She  began  like  a  curst  dog 

About  the  doors  that  might  be  snarling. 

Hers  the  mouth  of  scolding  jade, 

Her  insults  at  an  old  man  firing. 
One  that  cannot  benefit  her 

As  she  was  herself  desiring ; 
I  have  wandered — I  have  seen  the  day — 

With  maids  in  dear  relation  ; 
She  perceived  that  time  was  gone. 

And  sent  me  off  with  indignation. 

Anna's  character  I'll  tell  you, 

Since  at  that  time  I  well  knew  it. 
One  that  drank  her  lucky  penny. 

And,  live  dramless,  she'll  not  do  it ; 
I  don't  wonder  that  she's  drunken. 

Since  'mong  brandy  she  is  dwelling. 
Oft  inside  her  was  enough  of  it. 

Too  much  her  head  was  swelling. 

353  z 


AOIR  ANNA 

Cha  n'eil  a  leannan  r'a  fhaicinn  25 

Ach  fear  m'a  seach  de  na  ceardaibh, 

'S  e  ""n  onoir  as  mc)  th"*  aice 

Gu"*!!!  fairtlich  i  air  na  bardaibh  ; 

Thug  i  dhiom  am  beul  ''s  an  t-sron, 

O'n  a  dh"*  fhag  i  beo  mi  tha  mi  taingeil,  30 

Chuir  i  mise  samhach,  balbh ; 

'S  dh**  flialbh  mi  mu'n  tugadh  i  'n  ceann  diom. 

'S  mdr  an  treuntas  le  Anna, 

Bhi  cho  gheur  le  sgainneal  cainnte ; 

'S  mairg  air  na  thachair  bean  bheumnach,  35 

Aig  am  bheil  am  beul  gun  fhaitheam  ; 

'M  fear  a  bheir  ise  dhathaigh, 

'S  ann  air  thig  a"*  chreach  's  an  calldach, 

'N  uair  shaoil  e  gu'*m  bu  bhean  cheart  i, 

''S  ann  thachair  e  ri  ban-mhaighstir.  40 

A**  bhan-chleasaiche  gun  ghrinneas, 

'S  mairg  fleasgach  a  theid  'na  caraibh. 

'S  trie  i  tuiteam  leis  na  gillean, 

Ceap-tuislidh  i  do  na  fearaibh ; 

A**  bhean  bhruidhneach,  mhisgeach,  ghionach,       45 

Ghleadhrach,  lonach,  shanntach,  shalach  ; 

Roinn  gu  reubadh  air  a  teangaidh, 

Cosmhail  ri  gath  geur  na  Nathrach. 

Comhdach  nach  falaich  a  craiceann, 

Leomach  gun  seol  air  cur  leis  ann,  50 

Cha  n'eil  brogan  slan  mu  casan, 

Cha  n'eil  cota  'n-aird  mu  leasaibh ; 

354 


SATIRE  ON  ANNA 

Never  seen  is  sweetheart  for  her 

Save  a  series  of  the  ceard  folk, 
And  the  most  she  has  of  honour 

Is  that  she  defeats  the  bard  folk ; 
She  took  from  me  mouth  and  nose, 

I'm  thankful  that  in  life  she  left  me, 
She  dismissed  me  dumb,  morose ; 

I  went,  in  case  my  head  were  reft  me. 

And  great  is  Anna's  might 

To  be  so  sharp  with  speech  condemning ; 
Pity  him  the  tart  wench  fell  on, 

She  whose  mouth  requires  a  hemming ; 
The  man  who  will  bring  her  home 

Were  by  loss  and  ruin  blighted, 
Thinking  her  a  proper  woman. 

On  a  vixen  has  he  lighted. 

Female  trickster  without  virtue. 

Pity  stripling  that  comes  near  her. 
Oft  the  lads  she  falls  ower  sib  with. 

Men  a  block  of  stumbling  fear  her ; 
The  wench  greedy,  drunken,  blaring, 

Noisy,  forward,  foul  and  mean  thing ; 
On  her  tongue  a  point  for  tearing, 

Like  the  very  Serpent's  keen  sting. 

A  dress  her  skin  not  hiding, 

Finery  put  without  art  on. 
On  her  feet  no  whole  providing, 

Round  her  thighs  she  has  no  skirt  on  ; 
355 


EAINN  D'A  LEANNAN 

Oirre  tha  aogas  na  glaistig, 

Neul  an  Aoig  ""na  h-aodann  preasach, 

Closach  i  air  seargadh,  lachdunn,  55 

'S  cosmhail  i  ri  dealbh  na  Leisge. 

Tigh  tha  Ian  de  mhnathan  misgeach, 

'S  olc  an  t-ait  an  d'rinn  mi  tachairt, 

Ged  thainig  mi  ann  gun  fhios  domh, 

'S  fhearr  falbh  trath  na  fuireach  aca :  60 

Ban-mhaighstear  a'  chomuinn  bhristich, 

Anna  tha  ainmeil  ""san  eachdraidh ; 

Ma  gheibh  each  i  mar  fhuair  mis'  i, 

Cha  tig  iad  gn  brath  g'a  faicinn. 


RAINN  A  GHABHAS  MAIGHDEAN  D'A 
LEANNAN. 

Cha  n-eolas  graidh  dhuit 

Uisge  shrabh  na  shop, 
Ach  gradh  an  fhir  thig  riut 

Le  blathas  a  tharruing  ort ; 

Eirich  moch  Di-domhnaich  5 

Gu  lie  eomhnairt,  phlataieh, 
'S  thoir  leat  beannaehd  pobuill 

Agus  eurraehd  sagairt ; 
Tog  sud  air  a  ghualainn 

Agus  sluasaid  mhaide,  10 

Faigh  naoi  gasan  rainieh 

Air  an  gearradh  le  tuaigh, 
356 


VERSES  TO  HER  LOVER 

With  the  look  of  a  she-devil. 

And  Death's  hue  in  her  drawn  visage, 
Withered  swarthy  corpse  and  evil, 

She  is  like  Sloth's  very  image. 

House  that's  full  of  drunken  women — 

To  such  ill  place  I  chanced  travel ; 
I,  though  unawares  there  coming, 

Sooner  left  than  with  them  revel : 
Mistress  of  the  motley  crowd 

Is  Ann  in  history  renowned,  her 
Others  ne'er  will  come  to  visit, 

If  they  find  her  as  I  found  her. 


VERSES  WHICH  A  MAIDEN  SINGS  TO 
HER  LOVER. 

Love's  ways  for  thee  no  filter 

In  strawdrawn,  grassdrawn  fashion, 

But  the  man's  love  that  pleases  thee 
To  draw  to  thee  with  passion. 

On  Sunday  go  soon 

To  a  bare  level  boulder, 
Bring  with  thee  folk's  boon 

And  a  priest's  hood ; 
Lift  that  on  his  shoulder 

And  a  shovel  of  wood, 
Get  nine  bracken  stalks 

Cut  with  an  axe, 
357 


RAINN  I  CHALUM  CILLE 

Is  tri  chnaimhean  seann-duine 

Air  an  tarruing  a  uaigh  ; 
Loisg  air  teine  crionaich  e,  15 

Dean  sud  gu  leir  'na  luath, 
Suath  sin  r'*a  gheal-bhroilleach 

An  aghaidh  na  gaoith'  tuath ; 
'S  theid  mise  'n  riith  's  am  barantas 

Nach  falbh  'm  fear  ud  uait.  20 


RAINN  I  CHALUM  CILLE. 

Beannachadh  I  Chalum  Cille, 

Innis  tha  beannaichte  cheana, 

Eilean  a  tha  'n  iochdar  Mhuile, 

'S  e  uile  fuidh  chis  Mhic  Cailein  ; 

lonad  naomha  a  fhuair  urram,  5 

Os  cionn  iomad  tir  is  fearann, 

Ghabhaj!  dileas  ris  gach  duine, 

Thig  o^n  uile  rioghachd  aineil. 

■"S  iomad  righ  a  th'  anns  an  tulaich 

'S  daoin'-uaisle  riomhach  a  bharrachd,  10 

'S  an  cuirp  phriseil  bu  mhath  cumachd 

Air  an  leagail  sios  fo  'n  talamh ; 

O  's  e  deireadh  crich  gach  duine 

Tuiteam  *nan  uir  's  'nam  min  ghaineamh, 

Mo  dhochas  an  Criosd  a  dh'  fhulaing,  15 

Gu'n  d'ullaich  e  sith  d'an  anam. 

358 


VERSES  ON  lONA 

And  three  old  man's  bones 

Drawn  from  under  gravestones, 
On  dry  faggot  fire  burn, 

All  to  ashes  that  turn, 
On  his  white  breast  that  grind 

Against  the  north  wind ; 
Surety,  warrant  I'll  be 

Yon  man  goes  not  from  thee. 


VERSES  ON  lONA. 

A  BLESSING  upon  IcolmkiU, 

Already  blessed  is  that  isle. 
It  lies  towards  the  south  of  Mull, 

All  under  tribute  to  Argyll ; 
That  holy  place,  which  honour  won 

O'er  many  a  country,  many  a  land. 
Impartially  receives  each  one 

That  comes  from  every  foreign  strand. 

Full  many  a  king  entombed  lies  here. 

And  gallant  gentlemen  beside. 
Of  goodly  shape  their  bodies  dear 

Down  underneath  the  ground  are  laid ; 
Since  it  is  all  men's  final  scope 

To  fall  to  fine  sand  and  to  yird. 
In  Christ,  who  suffered,  is  my  hope 

That  He  their  souls'  peace  hath  prepared. 
359 


AN  COMH-DHUNADH 

Mile  is  da  cheud  d'a  thuille 

De  bhliadhnachan  air  dol  thairis, 

O'n  a  shuidhich  a"*  cheud  duine 

Deagh  chlach-bhunait  steidh  a"*  bhalla ;  20 

'S  iomad  dealbh  a  th'  ann  a"*  fuireach 

'S  leacan  nam  marbh  air  dheagh  ghearradh, 

Clach  shnaidhte  o'n  bhlar  gu  mhullach, 

'S  rinn  lad  uiV  e  laidir,  fallain. 

Fhuair  sinn  searmoin  shoilleir,  uUamh,  25 

O'li  fhear  a  bha  'n  de  's  a'  chrannaig ; 

'S  chuala  mi  'n  luchd-eisdeachd  uile 

Toirt  urram  do'n  bheal  a  chan  i. 

Nis  o'n  a  dh'eug  Calum  Cille 

'S  nach  bu  du  dha  fein  bhi  maireann,  30 

Tha  aoibhneas  air  duthaich  Mhuile 

Dughall  a  bhi  'n  aite  Chaluim. 


AN  COMH-DHUNADH. 

Tha  mise  'm  shuidh  air  an  uaigh, 

Tha  'n  leaba  sin  fuar  gu  leoir, 
Gun  fhios  agam  cia  fhad  an  tim 

Gus  an  teannar  mi  fhin  d'a  coir : 
Comhdach  flanainn  's  leine  lin, 

Is  ciste  dhubh,  dhionach,  bhord, 
Air  mheud  's  gu'n  cruinnich  mi  ni, 

Sud  na  theid  learn  sios  fo'n  fhod. 
360 


ik^ 


[To  face  p.  360, 


THE  CONCLUSION 

A  thousand  two  hundred  and  more 

Of  lazy  years  have  passed  and  gone, 
Since  the  first  man  founded  of  yore 

The  well-built  wall  of  solid  stone : 
There's  many  a  form  remaining  there, 

Well-carved  mementos  of  the  dead, 
Hewn  stone  from  base  to  summit  fair, 

Flawless  and  strong  the  whole  they  made. 

We  got  a  sermon,  ready,  clear 

From  the  man  in  the  pulpit  yesterday ; 
And  all  the  audience  did  I  hear 

Honouring  the  mouth  that  did  it  say. 
Since  St  Columba  now  is  dead 

(His  own  survival  might  not  be), 
Joy  o'er  the  land  of  Mull  is  spread 

That  Dugald  holds  Columba's  See. 


THE  CONCLUSION. 

Myself  am  sitting  on  the  grave. 

And  cold  enough  that  lonely  bier, 
How  long  the  time  I  know  not  save 

That  I  myself  to  it  draw  near : 
A  robe  of  flannel,  shirt  of  lint. 

And  a  black,  close,  and  boarded  hod. 
Whatever  pelf  I  hoard  unspent, 

Yon's  what  goes  with  me  'neath  the  sod. 
361 


AN  COMH-DHUNADH 

'S  beag  ar  curam  roimh  'n  bhas 

'M  fad  a  bhios  sinii  laidir,  6g ;  lo 

Saoilidh  sinn  ma  gheibh  sinn  dail, 

Gur  e  ar  n-aite  fuireach  beo : 
Feudaidh  sinn  fhaicinn  air  each, 

'S  iad  'gar  fagail  gach  aon  16, 
Gur  nadurra  dhuinne  gach  trath  15 

Gu  bheil  am  bas  a'  teannadh  oirnn. 

Tha  mo  pheacadh-sa  ro  throm, 

'S  muladach  sin  leam  an  drasd' ; 
Tha  mi  smaointeachadh  gu  trie 

Liuthad  uair  a  bhrist  mi  'n  aithn'  20 

Le  miann  mo  dhroch  inntinn  fein 

Leis  an  robh  mo  chreubhag  Ian ; 
Gun  chuimhn"'  air  ughdarras  Dhe 

Le  durachd  am  bheul  n'  am  laimh. 

Ged  is  mdr  mo  pheacadh  gniomh,  25 

'S  mi  'n  cionta  ceud  pheacadh  Adh'mh, 
Cheannaicheadh  mi  le  fuil  gu  daor 

A  dhoirte  sgaoilteach  air  a'  bhlar ; 
Tha  mo  dhuil,  's  cha  dochas  faoin, 

Ri  iochd  fhaotainn  air  a  sgath ;  30 

Gu''n  glacar  m"  anam  gu  sith ; 

Le  fulangas  Chriosd  a  mhain. 

Tha  mo  dhochas  ann  an  Criosd 

Nach  diobair  e  mi  gu  brath, 

'N  uair  a  leagar  mo  chorp  a  sios  35 

Ann  an  staid  losail  fo^n  bhlar ; 
362 


THE  CONCLUSION 

Ah !  little  is  our  care  for  death 

As  long  as  we  are  young  and  strong  ; 
We  think,  if  we  get  longer  breath, 

That  it  our  place  is  to  live  long  : 
Yet  we  may  see  from  every  man — - 

They  leave  us  every  single  day — 
To  us  each  hour  by  nature's  plan 

Death  ever  nearer  comes  our  way. 

Ah  !  heavy  is  my  sin  and  sore. 

And  for  it  now  I  am  distressed ; 
How  many — oft  I  think  it  o'er — 

The  times  the  law  I  have  transgressed 
With  my  ill  mind's  cupidity 

Wherewith  my  full  frame  did  expand ; 
And  no  remembrance  of  God's  sway 

By  earnestness  in  mouth  and  hand. 

Although  great  is  my  actual  sin, 

And  share  in  Adam's  primal  guilt, 
That  blood  I  have  been  dear  bought  in. 

Which  on  the  plain  was  poured  and  spilt ; 
My  trust  is,  no  vain  hope,  to  gain 

For  His  sake  mercy  to  atone ; 
That  my  soul  will  to  peace  be  ta'en 

By  Jesus'  sufferings  alone. 


It  is  in  Christ  my  hope  is  staid. 
That  he  will  ne'er  abandon  me 

What  time  my  body  down  is  laid 
In  lowly  state  beneath  the  lea  ; 
363 


AN  COMH-DHUNADH 

Gu'n  togar  m^anam  a  sin  suas, 

Gu  rioghachd  nam  buadh  's  nan  gras, 

Gu'm  bi  mo  leaba  fo  dhion 

Cois  cathrach  an  Ti  is  aird\  40 

Cha  bhitheadh  m''  eagal  roimh  an  aog, 

Ged  thigeadh  e  'm  thaobh  gun  dail, 
Na'm  bithinn  de  pheacadh  saor, 

An  deis  a'  ghaoil  a  thug  mi  dha ; 
Tha  mo  dhuil  anns  an  Dia  bheo,  45 

Gu'*n  dean  e  trocair  orm  an  drasd', 
Mo  thoirt  a  steach  a  dh'ionad  naomh, 

'N  cuideachd  Mhaois  is  Abraham. 

Gabhaidh  mi  nis  mo  chead  de'n  t-sluagh, 

Lan-toirt  suas  daibh  ann  am  chainnt,  50 

Fagaidh  mi  aca  na  chnuasaich, 

Na  stuaghan  a  bh'  ann  am  cheann ; 
Los  gu'n  abair  iad  r'a  cheile : 

"  Mar  a  leugh  sinn  fein  gach  rann, 
Co  air  an  teid  sinn  g'an  sireadh  ?  55 

Nis  cha  n'eil  am  filidh  ann  !  " 


364 


THE  CONCLUSION 

That  thence  my  soul  will  be  up-sped 
To  the  realm  of  goodness  and  of  grace, 

Beneath  His  shelter  placed  my  bed, 
A-nigh  the  Highesfs  resting-place. 

Afraid  of  death  I  should  not  be. 

Though  undelayed  my  way  it  came, 
If  I  from  sin  were  only  free, 

Considering  how  I  loved  the  same ; 
My  trust  is  in  the  God  of  grace, 

That  now  He'll  mercy  show  to  me. 
Take  me  within  His  holy  place, 

In  Moses^  and  Abram's  company. 

O'  the  folk  I  now  shall  take  my  leave. 

To  them  bequeathing  in  my  strain — 
I'll  leave  them  what  I  did  conceive. 

The  fancies  that  were  in  my  brain  ; 
That  they  may  to  each  other  speak : 

"  As  we  ourselves  each  verse  read  o'er. 
To  whom  shall  we  go  them  to  seek  ? 

The  poet  now  exists  no  more." 


365 


GRAN  NAM  BALGAIREAN 


ORAN  NAM  BALGAIREAN. 


LUINNEAG. 

Ho  hii  o  ho  na  halgairean^ 
O^s  ainmig  tad  r^amfaotainn  ; 
Ho  hu  o  ho  na  halgairean. 

Mo  bheannachd  aig  na  balgairean, 
A  chionn  bhi  sealg  nan  caorach.  5 

Ho  hu  o,  ^c. 

An  iad  na  caoirich  cheann-riabhach, 
Rinn  aimhreit  feadh  an  t-saoghail  ? 

Am  fearann  a  chuir  fas  oirnn, 
Is  am  mal  a  chuir  an  daoiread  ? 

Cha  n'eil  ait  aig  tuathanach ;  10 

Tha  bhuannachd-san  air  claonadh. 

Is  eiginn  dha  bhi  fagail 

An  ait  anns  an  robh  dhaoine : 

Na  bailtean  is  na  h-airighean, 

Am  faiffhte  blathas  is  faoileachd.  15 

Gun  tighean  ach  na  laraichean, 
Gun  ai teach  air  na  raointean. 

Tha  h-uile  seol  a  b"*  abhaist, 
Anns  a'  Ghaidhealtachd  air  caochladh : 
366 


SONG  TO  THE  FOXES 

SONG  TO  THE  PX)XES. 

Lay. 

Ho  hu  o  ho  the  foxes  <i 

O  they  are  rarely  to  he  gotten ; 

Ho  hu  o  ho  the  foxes. 

On  the  foxes  be  my  blessing, 
For  they  the  silly  sheep  are  chasing. 
Ho  hu  o,  SfC. 

Is  it  the  sheep  with  brindled  head 

That  through  the  world  confusion  spread  ? 

Our  land  put  out  of  cultivation, 
And  raised  the  rent  to  ruination  ? 

Place  for  tenant  there  is  none. 
His  gain  and  occupation  gone  : 

Quitting  and  leaving  he  must  be 
The  place  where  lived  his  ancestry : 

The  townships  and  the  sheilings  round. 
Where  warmth  and  welcome  both  were  found. 

No  houses  but  the  ruined  remains, 
No  cultivation  on  the  plains. 

Every  way  of  use  and  wont  is 
Altered  in  the  Highland  counties. 

367 


ORAN  NAM  BALGAIREAN 

Air  cinntinn  cho  mi-nadurra  20 

^Sna  h-aitean  a  bha  aoidheil. 

Cha  n'eil  loth  na  lair 

Bhiodh  searrach  laimh  r^a  taobh  ann. 

Cha  n*'eil  aighean  dara 

Bhios  ag  arach  an  cuid  laogh  ann.  26 

Cha  n'eil  feum  air  gruagaichean, 
Tha  h-uile  buaiP  air  sgaoileadh. 

Cha  n-fhaigh  gille  tuarasdal 
Ach  buachaille  nan  caorach  ! 

Dh'  fhalbh  na  gobhair  phriseil,  30 

Bu  righ  a  dh'  orduich  saor  iad. 

Earba  bheag  na  duslainn, 
Cha  duisgear  i  le  blaoghan. 

Cha  n'eil  fiadh  air  fuaran, 

O'n  chain  na  h-uaislean  gaol  daibh.  35 

Tha  gach  frithear  fuasgailte, 

Gun  duais  a  chionn  a  shaoithreach. 

Is  diombach  air  an  duine  mi 
A  m  na  sionnaich  aoireadh  ; 

A  chuireas  cii  d'an  ruagadh,  40 

No  thilgeas  luaidhe  chaol  orr\ 

Gu  ma  slan  na  cuileanan 
Tha  fuireach  ann  an  saobhaidh. 
368 


SONG  TO  THE  FOXES 

So  ill-natured  have  they  grown 
In  places  hospitably  known. 

No  filly  there  exists,  or  mare, 
Whose  foal  would  to  her  side  repair. 

Heifers  there  are  none  that  pair. 

And  which  their  calves  are  rearing  there. 

There  is  for  dairy-maids  no  need, 
Every  fold  is  scattered. 

Wages  not  a  lad  will  reap. 
Except  the  shepherd  of  the  sheep. 

Gone  are  the  goats  so  dear  to  me, 
A  king  ordained  their  pasture  free. 

The  wee  doe  of  the  gloomy  brake 
At  a  fawn's  cry  will  not  wake. 

Not  a  deer  is  at  a  well. 

Since  gentry  have  disowned  their  spelL 

Every  forester  is  freed. 

For  his  work  he  has  no  meed. 

I  think  the  man  is  much  to  blame. 
Who  gives  the  foxes  an  ill  name. 

Who  a  dog  sends  to  pursue  them. 
Or  the  thin  lead  shoots  to  undo  them. 

Healthy  be  the  whelps  and  thriving 

That  within  the  dens  are  living. 

369  2  A 


ORAN  DHUN-EIDEINN 

Na'm  faigheadh  iad  mo  dhurachd, 

Cha  chiiram  dhaibh  cion  saoffhail.  45 

Bhiodh  piseach  air  an  oigridh, 

Is  bhiodh  beo  gus  am  marbh'  aois  iad. 


ORAN  DHUN-EIDEINN. 

'S  E  baile  mdr  Dhun-eideinn 

A  b'  eibhinn  learn  bhi  ann, 

Aite  fialaidh  farsaing 

A  bha  tlachdmhor  anns  gach  ball ; 

Gearasdan  is  bataraidh  5 

Is  rampairean  gu  teann, 

Tighean  mdr  is  caisteal 

Anns  an  trie  an  d'  stad  an  camp. 

'S  trie  a  bha  camp  rioghail  ann, 

''S  bu  riomhach  an  luchd-dreuchd ;  10 

Trup  nan  srann-each  lionmhor 

Gu  dileas  air  a'  gheard : 

Bhiodh  gach  fear  cho  eolach 

'S  a  h-uile  sedl  a  b'  fhearr  ; 

Na  fleasgaich  bu  mhath  foghlum  15 

A  dhol  an  ordugh  blair. 

'S  iomadh  fleasgach  uasal  ann 

A  bha  gu  suairce,  grinn ; 

Fudar  air  an  gruagan 

Suas  gu  barr  an  cinn ;  20 

370 


J 


SONG  TO  EDINBURGH 

Should  they  get  as  I  would  wish  them, 
Want  of  days  would  never  fash  them. 

The  young  ones  would  have  good  luck  willed  them, 
And  would  live  till  old  age  killed  them. 


SONG  TO  EDINBURGH. 

"'TIS  the  great  town  of  Dunedin 
Wherein  I'd  gladly  stay, 
A  wide  and  hospitable  place, 
'Twas  pleasant  every  way ; 
With  garrison  and  battery 
And  ramparts  tight  and  good. 
Great  houses,  and  a  castle. 
Where  the  camp  has  often  stood. 

A  royal  camp  was  often  there, 
And  fine  the  staff  would  be ; 
The  troops  of  snorting  cavalry 
On  guard  there  faithfully  : 
Each  man  would  be  so  skilful 
In  the  best  tactics  all ; 
The  young  men  well  instructed 
In  battle  line  to  fall. 

Here  many  a  gallant  bachelor 
Was  polished  and  well  bred ; 
Upon  his  hair  was  powder 
To  the  summit  of  his  head ; 
371 


ORAN  DHUN-EIDEINN 

Leadain  dhonna  dhualach 
'Na  chuachagan  air  sniomh  ; 
Barr  dosach  mar  an  sioda 
^N  uair  shliogadh  e  le  cir. 

■'S  mdr  a  tha  de  bhain-tighearnan  25 

A  null 's  a  nail  an  t-sraid, 

Guntaichean  de^n  t-sioda  orr' 

G'an  sliogadh  ris  a'  bhlar; 

Staidhse  air  na  h-ainnirean 

G^an  teannachadh  gu  h-ard ;  30 

Buill-mhais''  air  aodainn  bhoidheach. 

Mar  thuilleadh  sporsa  dhaibh. 

A  h-uile  te  mar  thigeadh  dhi 

Gu  measail  am  measg  chaich, 

Uallach,  riomhach,  ribeanach,  35 

Cruinn,  min-geal,  giobach,  tlath ; 

Trusgan  air  na  h-6igheanan, 

G'an  comhdachadh  gu  lar  ; 

Brog  bhiorach,  dhionach,  chothromach, 

'S  bu  chorrach  leam  a  sail.  40 

'N  uair  chaidh  mi  stigh  do'n  Abailte, 
Gu''m  b'ait  an  sealladh  sul 
Bhi  'g  amharc  air  na  dealbhannan, 
Righ  Fearghas  ann  air  thus ; 
A  nis  ©""n  rinn  iad  falbh  uainn,  45 

Tha  Alba  gun  an  crun ; 
'S  e  sin  a  dhYhag  na  Garbh-chriochan 
'San  aimsir  so  a  cuirt. 
372 


SONG  TO  EDINBURGH 

Brown  coloured  locks,  and  plaited 
Into  many  a  curl  that  twines ; 
The  top  is  like  a  bunch  of  silk 
When  with  a  comb  it  shines. 


And  many  noble  ladies  are 
On  the  streets'  busy  round, 
And  clad  are  they  in  gowns  of  silk 
That  trail  along  the  ground  ; 
And  every  pretty  thing  has  stays 
To  gird  them  'neath  the  arms ; 
And  beauty-spots  on  faces  fair 
To  add  unto  their  charms. 

Each  one,  as  well  becomes  her. 
Is  esteemed  among  the  rest ; 
And  proud,  and  rich,  and  ribbony, 
Neat,  pale,  mild,  smartly  dressed ; 
And  robes  upon  the  maidens. 
Them  gowning  earth  a-nigh ; 
A  pointed,  fitting,  well-made  shoe, 
Methought  its  heel  too  high. 

The  Abbey  when  I  entered. 
For  mine  eyes  the  sight  was  rare 
To  look  upon  the  pictures, 
King  Fergus  first  was  there ; 
Now  since  they  are  gone  from  us, 
Our  Scotland  has  no  crown ; 
And  that  has  left  the  mountain  lands 
Henceforth  at  Court  unknown. 
373 


ORAN  DHUN-EIDEINN 

Bidh  lochrain  ann  de  ghlaineachan 

Is  cainneal  anns  gach  ait,  60 

A'  meudachadh  an  soillearachd, 

Gu  sealladh  a  thoirt  daibh ; 

Cha  lugha  'n  t-aobhar  eibhneis, 

Cluig-chiuil  g'an  eisdeachd  ann, 

'S  gur  binne  na  chuach  Cheitein  iad,  55 

Le  'm  forgan  eibhinn  ard. 

Bidh  farum  air  na  coitseachan 

'Nan  trotan  is  'nan  deann, 

Eich  nan  cruaidh-cheum  socrach, 

Cha  bhiodh  an  coiseachd  mall ;  60 

Cursain  mheanmnach,  mhireanach 

A  b'  airde,  binneach  ceann ; 

Cha  n-e  am  fraoch  a  b'  innis  daibh, 

Na  firichean  nam  beann. 

Is  ann  an  Clobhs^  na  parlamaid  65 

A  chi  mi  thall  an  t-each, 

'Na  sheasamh  mar  a  b'  abhaist  da 

Air  lom  a'  chabhsair  chlach  ; 

Chuir  iad  srian  is  diallaid  air, 

'S  e  'n  Righ  a  tha  'na  ghlaic,  70 

D'  an  robh  coir  na  rioghachd  so, 

Ged  dhiobair  iad  a  mhac. 

Tha  tigh  mdr  na  parlamaid 

Air  ardachadh  le  tlachd, 

Aig  daoine-uaisle  ciallach,  75 

Nach  tug  riamh  ach  a'  bhreith  cheart ; 

374 


SONG  TO  EDINBURGH 

Lanterns  made  of  glass  are  there, 
And  candle  in  each  place, 
Making  more  brightness  for  them 
To  give  them  seeing  space  ; 
Nor  less  the  cause  for  pleasure 
There  to  list  to  chime  of  bell. 
More  sweet  are  they  than  May  cuckoo, 
With  their  joyous,  lofty  swell. 

A  rumbling  make  the  coaches. 
With  their  trotting  smart  they  go, 
The  hard-hoofed  smooth-paced  horses. 
Their  footing  was  not  slow ; 
Coursers  brisk  and  spirited. 
Heads  with  the  loftiest  manes ; 
Their  pasture  was  not  heather. 
Or  the  mountains'  upland  plains. 

Tis  in  the  Close  of  Parliament, 
That  horse  I  see  o'er  there, 
A-standing  as  he  used  to  stand 
On  the  stone  causeway  bare ; 
They've  saddled  him  and  bridled  him, 
Set  on  his  back  the  one 
Whose  was  the  right  to  all  these  realms. 
Though  banished  was  his  son.^ 

The  great  House  of  Parliament, 

With  beauty  it  is  built 

For  gentlemen  judicial 

Who  decree  but  ne'er  in  guilt ; 

*  King  James  VII.  was  the  brother  of  Charles  II.,  whose  statue  is 
here  described. 

375 


OKAN  DHUN-EIDEINN 

Tha  breitheanas  air  thalamh  ann 

A  mhaireas  's  nach  teid  as, 

Chum  na  thoill  e  chrochadh, 

'S  thig  na  neo-chiontaich  a  mach.  80 

Is  chunna'  mi  tigh-leigheis  ann 

Aig  leigheannan  ri  feum, 

A  dheanadh  slan  gach  dochartas 

A  bhiodh  an  corp  n'  an  ere ; 

Aon  duine  bhiodh  an  easlainte,  85 

No  'm  freasdal  ris  an  leigh, 

B'  e  sin  an  t-aite  dleasdanach, 

Gu  theasairginn  o  'n  euff. 


o ^    "  ~"0' 


Tha  Dun-eideann  boidheach 

Air  iomadh  seol  na  dha,  90 

Gun  bhaile  anns  an  rioghachd  so 

Nach  deanadh  striochdadh  dha  ; 

A  huthad  fear  a  dh'  innsinn  ann 

A  bheireadh  cis  do  chach, 

Daoin'-uaisle  casg'  an  iota  95 

Ag  61  air  fion  na  Spainnt\ 

Ge  mdr  a  tha  de  dh'  astar 

Eadar  Glascho  agus  Peairt, 

Is  cinn teach  mi  ged  fhaicinn 

Na  tha  dh'  aitreabh  ann  air  fad,  100 

Nach  'eil  ann  as  taitniche 

N'an  Abailt  is  am  Baiic, 

Na  tighean  mora  riomhach 

Am  bu  choir  an  righ  bhi  stad. 


376 


SONG  TO  EDINBURGH 

Judgment  exists  on  earth  there, 
Which  bides,  and  e'er  shall  be, 
For  those  that  merit,  hanging, 
While  the  innocent  go  free. 

And  there  I  saw  a  Healing  House 
Which  doctors  have  at  need. 
Who  could  cure  every  kind  of  ill 
Our  frame  or  clay  could  breed ; 
Whoe'er  might  be  in  sickness, 
Or  the  doctor  must  attend. 
That  were  the  proper  place  for  them 
To  save  them  from  their  end. 

Edinburgh  is  beautiful 
In  many  and  many  a  way ; 
There's  no  town  in  this  kingdom 
But  must  humbly  own  its  sway  ; 
Full  many  a  one  I  there  could  name 
Of  free  and  generous  strain. 
Of  gentlemen  who  quench  their  thirst 
Quaffing  the  wine  of  Spain. 

Although  great  is  the  distance 
'Twixt  Glasgow  and  Perth  of  Tay, 
Yet,  sure  I  am,  though  I  should  see 
The  mansions  all  the  way. 
That  there  are  none  more  pleasing 
Than  the  Abbey  and  the  Bank, 
These  houses  great  and  handsome. 
Fit  abodes  for  kingly  rank. 


377 


DO  DH'IARLA  BHRAID-ALBANN 


ORAN  DO  DHIARLA  BHRAID-ALBANN. 

Deoch-slaint'  an  larla 

Cuir  dian  'nar  caraibh  i, 

'S  ma  gheibh  sinn  Ian  i 

Gu'm  fag  sinn  falamh  i ; 

'N  uair  thig  i  oimne  5 

Gu'm  bi  sinn  ceolmhor, 

'S  gu'n  gabh  sinn  orain 

'Ga  h-61  gu  farumach. 

'S  e  'n  t-armunn  suairce 

A  ghluais  a  Bealach  leinn,  10 

'S  na  sar  dhaoin'-uaisle 

R'a  ghualainn  mar  ris  ann  ; 

O'n  dh'eirich  sluagh  leat 

Gu  feum  's  a"*  chruadal, 

A  reir  do  dhualchais  15 

Bidh  buaidh  a  dh'aindeoin  leat. 

Gur  deas  am  fiuran 
Air  thus  nan  gallan  thu, 
'S  cha  ghabh  thu  curam 

Roimh  ghnuis  nan  aineolach ;  20 

Le  d'  chomhlain  ura 
'S  thu  fein  'gan  stiuradh, 
Is  fir  do  dhuthcha 
Ri  d'  chul  mar  bharantas. 
378 


TO  EARL  OF  BREADALBANE 


SONG  TO  THE  EARL  OF  BREADALBANE. 

The  earl's  health,  set  it 

Before  us  speedily ; 
Full  if  we  get  it, 

We'll  empty  greedily ; 
If  our  way  it  travel. 

We  tuneful  cosily 
In  songs  will  revel. 

It  pledging  noisily. 

The  soldier  fine  did 

From  Taymouth  fare  with  us. 
The  gentry  splendid 

At  his  side  there  with  us  ; 
Since  hosts  rose  with  you 

At  need  for  fight  with  them. 
To  match  your  merits 

You'll  win  in  spite  of  them. 

You,  gallant  stripling, 

'Mong  youths,  a-van  of  them. 
Facing  the  boorish. 

Care  not  for  man  of  them  ; 
O'  your  fresh  contingent 

As  head  comporting  you. 
Men  of  your  district 

Behind  supporting  you. 
379 


DO  DHIARLA  BHRAID-ALBANN 

'S  tu  ceann  na  riaghailt  25 

A  tha  ciallach,  carthannach, 

Na  daoin"'  a  thriall  leat 

Giir  breagh  am  pannal  iad ; 

'S  tu  thog  na  ceudan 

De  shliochd  nam  Fianntan,  30 

'S  an  am  a'  ghniomha 

Bu  dian  's  a'  charraid  iad. 


Ma  thig  na  Frangaich 

A  nail  do'n  fhearann  so, 

Bheir  sinn  trath  dhaibh  35 

Cion-fath  an  aithreachais ; 

Theid  cuid  gu  bas  dhiubh, 

'S  cuid  eile  bhathadh, 

Mu'm  faigh  iad  bata 

'S  mu'm  fag  iad  thairis  sinn  !  40 

O'n  fhuair  sinn  gunnachan. 

Gur  ullamh,  ealamh  iad 

'S  cha  n'eil  gin  uile  dhiubh 

Nach  freagair  aingeal  duinn  ; 

Cha  n-£haic  na  curaidhean  45 

Dol  sios  'na  chunnart  dhaibh ; 

'S  gur  rioghail,  urramach 

A  dhioladh  falachd  iad. 


'N  uair  theid  gach  treun  fhear 

'Na  eideadh  ceannartach,  60 

Le  'n  armaibh  gleusta 

Cho  geur  's  bu  mhath  leinn  iad, 
380 


TO  EARL  OF  BREADALBANE 

Chief  of  the  staff  you 

Are  shrewd,  beneficent, 
Those  that  went  with  you 

Are  a  brave  regiment ; 
You  in  hundreds  raised  them, 

The  scions  Fingalian, 
Who  in  time  of  frays  were 

In  deeds  undallying. 

If  the  French  cross  o"*er 

To  this  land  bent  on  it. 
Betimes  we'll  give  them 

Cause  to  repent  of  it ; 
To  death  some  doomed  are, 

Some  to  submersion. 
Ere  they  take  shipping 

O'er  sea  in  dispersion  ! 

Since  we  have  got  guns 

Quick,  ready  amazing. 
Of  them  all  not  one 

But  retorts  blazing ; 
The  heroes  won't  see 

Risk  in  onset,  ah  ! 
They're  royal,  noble. 

To  avenge  vendetta. 

When  each  strong  man  comes 
Arrayed  in  war  attire. 

With  arms  in  order 

Sharp  as  we'd  e'er  desire, 

381 


DO  DH'IARLA  BHRAID-ALBANN 

Bithidh  iomadh  creuchdan 

Le  ""m  buillibh  beumnach, 

Cha  leigheas  leigh  iad  55 

^S  cha  ghleidh  e  'n  t-anam  riu. 

'S  i  sin  a"*  gharbh  bhratach 

A  dir  fhalbh  o'n  bhaile  leinn, 

'S  iad  fir  Bhraid-albann 

Gu  dearbh  a  leanas  i,  60 

Fir  lira,  chalma 

A  tha  luthmhor,  meanmnach, 

Ma  dhuisgear  fearg  orra 

'S  mairg  a  bheanas  dhaibh. 

Tha  connspuill  araidh  65 

A  braigh  Ghlinn-fallach  leinn, 

A  f  huair  buaidh-larach 

'S  gach  ait  'n  do  tharruing  iad, 

Le  luchd  an  lamhaich 

Ri  uchd  an  namhaid,  70 

Bithidh  cuirp  'san  araich 

Air  lar  gun  charachadh. 

Cuid  eir  an  phairtidh, 

Gu  dan  le  fearalachd, 

Theid  lionmhor,  laidir  75 

""San  ait  a  gheallas  iad ; 

Fir  shunntach,  dhaicheil 

A  grunnd  Earr'-ghaidheal, 

Nach  diult  'sna  blaraibh 

Le  lamhach  caithriseach.  80 

382 


TO  EARL  OF  BREADALBANE 

Wounds  will  be  many 

With  fell  blows  rife  on  them, 
No  leech  will  heal  them 

Or  keep  their  life  in  them. 

That,  the  rough  pennon. 

From  home  did  speed  with  us, 
Men  of  Breadalbane 

Follow  it  indeed ; 
Fresh  and  brave  heroes 

With  strength  and  fire  in  them, 
Pity  wholl  touch  them. 

If  roused  their  ire  in  them. 


Some  heroes  there  be 

From  Falloch  brae  with  us. 
Who  won  victory 

Each  place  they  lay  with  us. 
By  men's  sharp-shooting 

At  foes,  unloving, 
A-field  lie  bodies 

On  plain  unmoving. 

Some  more  o**  the  party. 

With  force  undaunted. 
Reach,  strong  in  numbers. 

Place  covenanted ; 
Men  cheery,  comely 

From  lower  Argyllshire, 
Fail  not  in  battle, 

With  wary  wiles  fire. 


DO  DH'IARLA  BHRAID-ALBANN 

Na  h-Urchaich  eireachdail 

Le  'n  urchair  sgalanta, 

Cur  suas  nam  peilearan 

Nach  cualas  mearachdach, 

'S  iad  buadhar,  iomairteach  85 

'S  cha  dualchas  giorag  dhaibh, 

'S  an  ruaig  cha  tilleadh  iad 

'S  gur  cruaidh  le  'n  lannan  iad. 

Na  h-uaislean  Eileanach 

'S  ann  uainn  nach  fanadh  iad,  90 

'S  fir  chuairteach'  beinne  iad, 

'S  air  chuan  'nam  maraichean, 

Luchd  bhualadh  bhuillean  iad 

""S  a  fhuair  an  t-urram  sin, 

Is  fuaim  an  gminaireachd  95 

Cho  luath  ri  dealanaich. 

'S  ann  tha  ar  naimhdean 

'San  am  so  amaideach, 

'S  a'  mhisneach  ard  tha 

'Nar  ceann,  's  a  dh'fhanas  ann ;  100 

Tha  'n  Righ  ag  earbsadh 

Gu'n  diol  sinn  argumaid, 

Le  stri  na  h-armailt 

Mar  dhearbh  ar  n-athraichean. 

'N  uair  thog  iad  srol, 
'S  na  fir  mhora  tarruing  ris, 
'S  o'n  fhuair  iad  eolas 
Air  foghlum  cabhagach ; 

384 


TO  EARL  OF  BREADALBANE 

Orchy  men  handsome 

With  shots  far  sounding, 
Balls  driving  upward, 

Ne'er  heard  save  wounding  ; 
Victorious,  gamesome, 

To  fear  insensible, 
In  chase  they  turn  not, 

With  blades  invincible. 


The  Island  gentry 

From  us  won't  bide  away 
They  climb  hill  country. 

Sailors  on  tide  are  they, 
Folk  for  blow-dealing 

Their  fame  they're  heightening, 
Sound  of  their  shooting 

Is  quick  as  lightning. 

Foolish  at  this  time 

Indeed  our  enemies, 
In  our  head  courage 

Abides  in  many  ways  ; 
The  king's  confiding 

We'll  deal  out  reason. 
By  war  deciding 

As  our  sires  in  season. 

When  they  silk  upraised. 

Big  men  did  haste  them  ; 
When  they  got  practice. 

Quick  training  braced  them ; 

385  2B 


DO  DH'IARLA  BHRAID-ALBANN 

Cha  n-fhaicear  comhla 

De  ghaisgich  oga,  110 

Am  feachd  Rlgh  Deorsa, 

Aon  phor  thug  barrachd  orr\ 

Tha  ""n  samhradh  blath  ann 

O'n  dh'fhag  an  t-earrach  sinn, 

Ma  ni  sinn  camp  115 

'S  e  bhios  ann  dhuinn  fallaineachd : 

Tha  ni  air  gleanntaibh, 

Cha  bhi  sinn  gann  dhiubh, 

'S  gur  lionmhor  Gall 

Tha  cur  aird  air  aran  duinn.  120 

'S  e  'n  togail  inntinn 

Cho  grinn  's  a  b'  aithne  dhomh 

EWn  cuirt  an  Rlorh 

Gun  bhi  stri  ri  sgalagachd ; 

Cha  dean  sinn  feoraich  125 

Air  tuille  storais, 

'S  cha  teirig  Ion  dhuinn 

R''ar  beo  air  gearasdan. 


386 


TO  EARL  OF  BREADALBANE 

Ne'er  seen  together 

In  the  force  of  King  George 
A  race  of  young  heroes 

Beyond  them  did  forge. 

Here  is  warm  summer, 

Bade  adieu  the  spring  to  us, 
If  we  go  camping, 

It  health  will  brine:  to  us : 
In  glens  the  cattle 

Well  not  be  sparing, 
Lowlanders  many 

Our  bread  preparing. 

The  mind's  elation. 

The  best  was  known  to  me, 
At  Court  a  station. 

No  toil  at  husbandry ; 
Ourselves  for  riches 

We'll  ne'er  be  harassing. 
Since  want  won't  touch  us 

Stationed  in  garrison. 


387 


DO  REISIMEID  BHRAID-ALBANN 


ORAN  DO  REISIMEID  BHRAID-ALBANN. 

LuiNNEAG. 

Ho  ri  U,  ho  ro  a,  ho  u  U,  ho  re, 

Is  he  hillin  ho  ro  a,  ho  hi  urabh,  ho  re. 

""S  ANN  a  b''aiorhearach  sinne 

Mu^n  ionad  so  an  de, 
Air  traigh  Obair-dheadhain  5 

Ag  amharc  na  reis. 

Ho  ri  il,  ho  ro  a,  ^r. 

Bha  na  piobairean  uUamh, 

'S  bha  'n  druma  ""na  gleus, 
Na  feideagan  ceolmhor 

Gu  boidheach  ri  beus.  10 

Sinn  acr  61  de  dheoch  laidir 

Na  b'fheairrde  sinn  fein, 
Los  nach  faigheamaid  masladh 

Tighinn  dathaigh  'nar  ceill. 

Deoch-slainte  'n  ard  Choirneil  16 

Tha  oirnne  gu  leir, 
Gu''m  paigh  sinn  gu  deonach, 

'S  gu"'n  61  sinn  gu  reidh. 

'S  ann  fhuair  e  na  fiurain 

^Na  dhuthchanaibh  fein,  20 

Tha  cruaidh  an  am  rusgaidh 

Air  chul  nan  arm  geur : 
388 


TO  BREADALBANE  REGIMENT 


SONG  TO  THE  BREADALBANE  REGIMENT 

Lay. 

Ho  ri  U,  ho  ro  a,  ho  u  il,  ho  re, 

Is  he  hUlin  ho  ro  a,  ho  hi  urabh,  ho  re. 

Yesterday  we  were  pleased 

Round  here  of  all  places, 
On  Aberdeen  Links 

Looking  on  at  the  Races. 

Ho  ri  il,  ho  ro  a,  ^c. 

Full  fain  were  the  pipers, 

The  drum  rolling  free, 
The  musical  fifes  were 

In  tune  bonnily. 

We,  quaffing  strong  liquor. 

The  better  became. 
Lest  we  meet  with  disgrace 

In  our  wits  ganging  hame. 

A  health  to  the  Colonel 

Who's  over  us  a', 
We'll  pay  with  a  will. 

And  tak'  canny  awa\ 

He  got  the  young  callants 
At  his  own  district  farms, 

That  stern  are  when  stripping 
Behind  the  sharp  arms. 

389 


DO  REISIMEID  BHRAID-ALBANN 

'S  le'n  gunnachan  dubh-ghorm 

Is  spuir  Lira  'nan  gleus, 
An  am  losgadh  an  fhudair  25 

Cha  diultadh  aon  te. 

Bha  'n  suaicheantas  araid, 

Is  na  h-armuinn  d'a  reir. 
Breid  snMl  ri  crann-ard, 

Is  tore  laidir  nach  geill.  30 

'N  uair  sgaoileadh  a'  bhratach, 

Is  sar  ghaisgich  'na  deidh, 
Bu  mhaith  an  tus  feachd  iad 

Thabhairt  mach  an  ratreut, 

'S  ann  a  theid  na  fir  ura  35 

Gu  siubhlach  gu  feuni. 
Is  iad  nasal  'nan  giulan, 

'S  bu  luthor  an  ceum. 

Bu  bhoidheach  r'am  faicinn 

Air  faiche  ghlan,  reidh  40 

Na  fir  6ga  le'm  breacain 

Air  am  preasadh  an  fheiP. 

'S  mairg  namhaid  a  thachradh 

Air  na  lasgairean  treun  ; 
Gleidhidh  cruadal  nan  Gaidheal  45 

Buaidh-laraich  dhaibh  fein. 


390 


TO  BREADALBANE  REGIMENT 

With  their  muskets  dark-blue, 

And  new  flints  entire, 
When  burning  the  powder 

Not  one  misses  fire. 

Their  blazon  was  splendid, 

The  heroes  the  same, 
Silk  pennon  at  flagstaff. 

Strong  boar  yet  to  tame. 

When  spread  was  the  ensign. 
And  behind  heroes  stout. 

They  were  good  in  the  van 
The  retreat  to  give  out. 

They  will  go,  the  fresh  fellows. 
At  need  with  swift  grace. 

They're  noble  in  bearing. 
And  sturdy  their  pace. 

Pretty  'twas  to  behold  them 
On  plain  pure  and  smooth. 

With  their  belted  plaids  o'er 
The  kilt  plaits,  the  brave  youth. 

Pity  foeman  would  meet 

The  young  troop  that  ne'er  yields, 
The  Gaels'  valour  keeps 

For  themselves  stricken  fields. 


391 


ORAN  NA  GASAID 


ORAN  NA  GASAID. 


LUINNEAG. 

'aS*  trom  ar  cridhe  nia'sfior  a'  ghasaid, 

'aS*  muladach  ''s  muladach  tha  sinn ; 

"^S  trom  ar  cridhe  mcCsfior  a'  ghasaid ! 

'S  muladach  an  sgeul  a  fliuair  sinn 
Moch  Di-luain  ann  an  Ceann-phadruig. 
^S  trom  ar  cridhe,  SfC. 

'S  muladach  bhi  fagail  Dheorsa, 
O'n  a  chuir  e  'm  moid  am  paigheadh. 


'S  muladach  ma  theid  ar  sgaoileadh 
■'S  ffur  e  ar  s:aol  bhi  mar  tha  sinn. 


Ma  theid  sinn  gu  obair  tuatha,  10 

Cromaidh  ar  guaillean  ri  aiteach. 

'S  mdr  is  fearr  bhi  'nar  daoin'-uaisle 
Tarruing  suas  anns  a'  bhatailion. 

'S  aighearach  bhi  'n  camp  an  Righ, 

A'  seasamh  na  rioghachd  gu  laidir :  15 

Cumail  eagail  air  na  Frangaich, 
Fhad  's  a  bhios  ceann  air  a"*  phrabar. 

Ged  is  iomadh  gniomh  a  rinn  sinn, 
'S  e  'n  t-saigdearachd  a  rinn  stath  dhuinn. 
392 


SONG  ON  THE  GAZETTE 


SONG  ON  THE  GAZETTE. 

Lay. 
Heavy  is  mir  heart  if  the  Gazette  is  true, 
^Tis  sad,  sad  are  we  ; 
Heavy  is  our  heaH  if  the  Gazette  is  true. 

The  news  we  got  we  felt  it  sairly 
In  Peterhead  on  Monday  early. 

Heavy  is  our  heart  if  the  Gazette  is  true,  f^c. 

^Tis  sad  from  George  to  go  away, 
Because  he  has  put  up  the  pay. 

■^ris  sad  if  we'll  be  scattered  far, 
For  we  love  being  as  we  are. 

If  we  shall  go  to  work  for  tacksman. 

At  farming  we'll  get  stooping  backs,  man. 

Being  gentlemen  is  better  far. 
Marshalling  in  the  ranks  of  war. 

'Tis  joyous  in  King's  camp  to  be. 
For  the  realm  standing  up  strongly. 

Keeping  the  French  in  fear  and  dread, 
Long  as  the  rabble  has  a  head. 

Although  we  have  tried  many  a  trade, 
'Tis  soldiering  our  stay  has  made. 
393 


OKAN  A'  CHAMPA 

'S  binn  learn  an  druma  ri  m'  chluasaibh,  20 

'N  uair  a  bhualas  an  trabhailidh. 

'S  aoibhinn  an  sealladh  a'  bhratach, 
'S  na  fir  ur  'ga  faicinn  sabhailt. 

'S  boidheach  ar  gunnachan  glasa, 

'S  ar  cotaichean  daithte  madair.  25 

Cha  n'eil  sinne  'g  iarraidh  siochaidh 
Gus  an  ciosnaich  sinn  ar  namhaid. 


ORAN  A'  CHAMPA  'S  A'  BHLIADHANA  1798. 

Tha  sgeul  ur  'san  am  so 

Taobh  thall  Drochaid-duinn, 
Leinn  a  b'  aighearach  bhi  ann 

'N  uair  a  champaich  iad  cruinn ; 
Dol  a  dh'Eirinn  a  null  5 

Cha  diult  sinn  a  chaoidh, 
Ma  bhios  Hay  air  ar  ceann, 

Ciod  an  call  thigeadh  ruinn  ? 
Ciod  an  call  thigeadh  ruinn, 

Ciod  an  call  thigeadh  ruinn,  10 

Ma  bhios  Hay  air  ar  ceann, 

Ciod  an  call  thigeadh  ruinn  ? 

'S  ann  theid  sinn  gun  euradh 

Do  dh'  Eirinn  air  thus, 
^S  e  ar  n-eibhneas  gu  leir  15 

Mar  a  dh'eirich  do'n  chuis : 
394 


i 


SONG  TO  THE  CAMP 

To  my  ears  the  drum's  melodious  highly, 
What  time  it  tattoos  the  reveille. 

The  flag  it  is  a  joyous  sight, 
Safeguarding  it  young  men  of  might. 

Bonny  are  our  guns  so  grey, 

Our  tunics,  madder-dyed  are  they. 

It  is  not  we  are  seeking  peace, 
Till  we  subdue  our  enemies. 


SONG  TO  THE  CAMP  IN  THE  YEAR  1798. 

Just  now  come  fresh  tidings 

From  yont  Brig  o"*  Doon, 
There  we''d  gladly  be  biding 

When  they  camp  all  aroun** ; 
Erinwards  to  proceed 

We'll  never  refuse, 
If  Hay''s  at  our  head 

What's  the  harm  can  come  to  us  ? 
What's  the  harm  can  come  to  us, 

What's  the  harm  can  come  to  us, 
If  Hay's  at  our  head, 

What's  the  harm  can  come  to  us  ? 

We  shall  go  without  swither 

To  Ireland  at  once. 
To  our  joy  altogether 

The  matter  did  chance : 
395 


ORAN  A'  CHAMPA 

Bidh  ar  n-oighichearan  treubhach 

'Nan  eideadh  gu  dluth, 
'S  na  saighdearan  gleusda 

Gu  feum  air  an  cul.  20 

Na  Braid-albannaich  chalma, 

'S  na  h-Earra-ghaidhlich  ur\ 
Tha  sibh  ainmeil  an  Alba, 

Le  V  n-armailt  air  thus ; 
Thug  an  Righ  dhuibh  an  tairgse  25 

Chur  meanmna  'nur  gnuis, 
Tha  e  earbsach  gu'm  falbh  sibh 

'S  gu'n  dearbh  sibh  an  cliu. 

Ma  tha  duin'  anns  nach  'eil  ardan 

'S  a^  champ  so  gu  leir,  30 

Nach  imich  leis  na  cairdean 

An  am  dol  am  feum, 
Ciod  a  dheanadh  each  ris, 

Ach  fhagail  'nan  deidh, 
Bhi  'na  thamh  aig  a'  mhathair,  35 

An  aite  leis  fein  ? 

'S  ann  againn  tha  na  Gaidheil, 

Theid  dan  anns  an  ruaig, 
Na  fir  laidire,  dhaicheil 

A  b'  abhaist  bhi  cruaidh  ;  40 

Theid  sinn  do  Phort-phadruig, 

Cha  chas  leinn  a  luathas, 
Moch  an  la'r'n-mhaireach 

Gun  dail  air  a'  chuan. 
396 


SONG  TO  THE  CAMP 

We'll  have  officers  brave 
In  their  close-fitting  weed, 

And  in  trim  are  the  soldiers 
Behind  them  at  need. 


Brave  men  of  Breadalbane, 

The  Argylls  spick-and-span, 
Ye  are  famous  in  Albyn 

With  your  host  in  the  van ; 
The  king  gave  you  pledge 

That  put  fire  in  your  eye. 
He's  trusting  youll  go 

And  the  praise  justify. 

Is  there  man  with  no  courage 

In  this  entire  faction, 
Goes  not  with  his  comrades 

When  marching  to  action  ? 
How'*d  the  rest  treat  him  other 

Than  leave  him,  the  elf, 
At  ease  with  his  mother 

In  a  place  by  himself? 

But  with  us  are  the  Gael 

Who  go  bold  in  the  rout, 
The  comely  men  hale 

Who  were  wont  to  be  stout ; 
To  Port  Patrick  we^ll  journey, 

The  sooner  the  better. 
To-morrow  morn  early 

With  speed  on  the  water. 
397 


ORAN  DO'N  INBHEAR 

'N  uair  theid  na  loingeis  bhreid-gheal  45 

An  Eirinn  air  tir, 
Ciod  a  ni  na  Reubail 

A  dhY'irich  'san  stri  ? 
Teicheadh  as  a  cheile 

'S  ratreut  orra  sios,  50 

Bhi  'nan  eiginn  is  feum  ac** 

Air  reite  s'  air  sith. 


ORAN  DO'N  INBHEAR. 

OiDHCHE  dhomh  'san  Inbhear 
Bha  lighe  mhdr  an  Cona-ghlais, 
'S  fhad  a  chuar  iad  iomradh 
Mu*n  iorgail  anns  do  thachair  mi. 
'S  fhad  a  chual'  iad  iomradh 
Mu'n  iorgail  anns  do  thachair  mi. 


Ghabh  mi  tamh  air  thus 

Ann  an  seors'  de  thigh  udlaidh, 

Is  rinn  mi  suidhe  sumhail 

Gus  'n  do  mhuth  mi  cairtealan.  10 


'N  uair  thainig  aird  na  gealaiche, 
Sin  an  t-am  an  d'^fhairich  mi 
Gu'm  b'  eiginn  domh  bhi  carachadh 
A  dh'  ionnsaidh  bhaile  b'  fhaigse  dhomh. 
398 


SONG  TO  THE  INVER 

When  the  fleet  with  its  white  sails 

To  Ireland's  shore  goes, 
What  will  they  do,  the  Rebels, 

In  strife  who  arose  ? 
They  would  flee  from  each  other 

(The  retreat  down  upon  them) 
In  need  and  in  pother 

For  peace  and  reunion. 


SONG  TO  THE  INVER. 

The  night  1  in  the  Inver  fared 

A  great  flood  was  in  Conaghlas, 
■"Tis  long  since  they  the  account  have  heard 

To  what  plight  I  had  gone,  alas ! 
'Tis  long  since  they  the  account  have  heard 

To  what  plight  I  had  gone,  alas ! 

Taking  first  accommodation 

In  a  sort  of  gloomy  residence, 
I  sat  in  lowly  station 

Until  I  changed  my  quarters  thence. 

When  round  had  come  the  height  of  the  moon. 

That  time  I  did  it  clearest  see 
That  I  must  needs  be  moving  soon 

To  the  township  that  was  nearest  me. 

399 


ORAN  DO'N  INBHEAR 

Bha  druim  an  tighe  ruisgte,  15 

Bha  snighe  feadh  an  uriair, 

Bha  griosach  bheag  is  mdran  smuid, 

'S  an  suilean  diiinf  aig  pacarais. 

Bha  nighean  lain-bhuidh'  air  thus  ann, 

Cha  V  ann  a  bhuidhinn  cliu  dhi ;  20 

Cha  bhuineadh  i  do^n  duthaich, 

Ged  thug  i  diugha  fasain  ann. 

Com  nach  d'fhan  i  bhuainne, 

■^S  i  dheanamh  mar  bu  dual  di, 

Tamh  am  bothan  suarach,  25 

'S  na  cuarain  mu  na  casan  aic'  ? 

Ciod  e  rinn  sporsail,  uallach  i, 

Caileag  bhochd  an  tuarasdail  ? 

Gun  fhoghlum  ach  a  bhuachailleachd  ; 

'S  ann  fhuair  e  buain  na  cartach  i.  30 

Is  maith  an  t-aobhar  ghaire 
Luchd-fanaid  's  fala-dha  i ; 
Cha  n'eil  i  gabhail  naire 
Ged  chltheadh  each  a'  marcachd  i. 

'S  am  fear  tha  laighe  r'a  taobh,  35 

Cha  n'eil  daimh  aig  Clann-an-t-Saoir  ris ; 
Na'm  buineadh  e  d^an  daoine, 
B'  ann  daonnan  a  thoirt  masladh  dhaibh. 

Cha  deach  e  ri  Clann  Dughaill, 
O'n  tha  e  coimheach,  bruideil,  40 

Bithidh  a  dhorus  ddinte, 
'S  dublaidh  e  na  glasan  air. 
400 


SONG  TO  THE  INVER 

The  roof  of  the  house  was  stript  entire, 
And  there  was  ooze  the  floor  throughout, 

Much  smoke  there  was  and  little  fire. 
And  with  closed  eyes  a  rabble  rout. 

Yellow  John^s  lass — there  first  was  she — 

Renown  she  never  got  it  there ; 
Of  the  country  she  would  never  be. 

Though  fashion's  dregs  she  brought  it  there. 

Why  did  she  not  from  us  remain. 

Be  doing  as  was  meet  for  her. 
Abiding  in  a  hovel  mean, 

With  rillings  round  the  feet  of  her "? 

What  made  her  a  proud,  giddy  thing. 
The  poor  wench  of  the  wages  she  ? 

With  training  none  save  shepherding ; 
Twas  cutting  bark  she  got  any. 

For  roars  of  laughter  a  fair  game 

For  scoffing  folk  and  jesters  she ; 
For  she  is  never  thinking  shame. 

She  rides  astride  though  all  should  see. 

And  the  man  that's  lying  by  her  side, 
Maclntyres  have  no  trace  of  him ; 

If  to  their  men  he  were  alhed, 

'Twere  aye  to  cast  disgrace  on  them. 

He  takes  not  after  Dougall  Clan, 

For  he's  a  strange  and  brutal  wretch,     »* 

His  door  it  will  be  shut,  the  man, 

And  the  locks  on  it  hell  double  latch. 

401  2  c 


ORAN  DO'N  INBHEAR 

Tha  Clann-na-Cearda  sgith  dheth 

Ged  tha  iad  laidir,  lionmhor ; 

Am  fad  as  beo  'san  fhionan  e,  45 

Tha  craobh  chrionaich  aca-san. 

O^n  is  cinneach  cairdeil,  carthannach, 

A  bhos  is  thall  an  Gallaibh  iad, 

'S  e  'n  call  daibh  nach  do  chailleadh 

Am  fear  ud  mu''n  do  bhaisteadh  e.  50 

Is  coslach  e  measg  chaich 

Ri  iteodha  ann  an  garadh, 

A  mhilleas  rum  gu  fas 

Air  na  luibhean  blath  as  taitniche. 

Coimeasaidh  luchd-eolais  55 

Ri  foichearain  an  otraich  e ; 
Ged  chinn  e'n  toiseach  boidheach, 
■"S  e  'm  por  e  nach  dean  abachadh. 

Nighean  Iain  bhuidhe  's  Calum  ud, 

'S  i  'n  uaisle  'n  rud  nach  aithne  dhaibh,  60 

Ise  ""na  fior-chailleach 

'S  e  ""n  dubh-bhallach  a  tha  'n  taice  rith\ 

O'n  tha  iad  gruamach,  iargalta, 

Cha  d'fhuair  iad  cliu  nam  biadhtaichean  ; 

Cha  chualas  duine  riamh  65 

Fhuair  fialachd  anns  an  fhasdail  ud. 

Cha  n-fhuirich  na  daoin'-uaisP  aca, 

'S  cha  n-fhuilig  iad  na  tuathanaich  ; 

'S  muladach  na  chuaF  sinn, 

Nach  ''eil  buaidh  'n  taice  riu.  70 

402 


SONG  TO  THE  INVER 

Tired  of  him  are  the  Clan  na  Ceard 
Though  strong  and  numerous  they  be ; 

While  he  lives  on  in  the  vineyard, 
With  them  there  is  a  withered  tree. 

Since  they're  a  nation  friendly,  crouse 

(There"'s  here  and  away  in  Caithness  some), 

Their  loss  that  him  they  did  not  lose — 
Yon  man — before  his  baptism. 

He's  like  among  the  others 

Unto  hemlock  in  a  garden  placed, 

Which  growing-space  but  smothers 

For  the  herbs  that  bloom  the  pleasantest. 

Him  knowing  folks  will  liken 

To  the  rank  growth  of  the  manure  hill ; 
^Tis  a  crop  that  will  not  ripen. 

Although  it  at  first  grows  beautiful. 

Yon  Calum  and  Iain  Buidhe's  quean. 
True  worth  and  they  don't  know  'other, 

Herself  a  veritable  fiend. 

The  black  lad,  he's  in  tow  with  her. 

Since  they're  a  gloomy,  surly  set. 

Hospitallers'  fame  they  did  not  meet ; 

The  man  was  never  heard  of  yet 

Who  got  good  cheer  in  yon  retreat. 

The  gentry  will  not  with  them  stay. 
And  they  the  farmers  quite  contemn  ; 

From  all  we've  heard,  'tis  sad  to  say. 
There's  no  good  trait  belongs  to  them. 

403 


ORAN  DO^  INBHEAR 

Tha  triuir  le  beusan  docharach, 
Gun  speis,  iad  fein  's  an  crochadair ; 
Cha  n-eibhinn  leis  na  bochdan  iad, 
'S  cha  docha  leis  na  beartaich  iad. 

Tha  diomb  nan  cairdean  daonnan  ac'  75 

Tha  ""n  naimhdean  far  nach  saoileadh  iad ; 
Tha  fuath  aig  sluagh  an  t-saoghail  orra, 
"S  cha  n'eil  gaol  aig  neach  orra. 

'S  truagh  an  t-ainm  a  dh'  fhagas  iad, 

Cha  choslach  iad  ri'm  parantan  ;  80 

Mo  dhuil  nach  lean  am  paistean 

A**  chuid  as  tair  an  fhasan  ud. 

Chunna"*  sinn  an  toiseach  iad. 

Gun  mheas,  gun  chliu,  gun  fhortan, 

An  aros  taireil,  gortach,  85 

'S  i  bhochdain  a  bha  'n  tasgaidh  ann. 

Na  bhuannaich  iad  air  barganaibh, 

A'  toirt  char  a  sluagh  le  cealgaireachd, 

Mar  a  fhuaras,  falbhaidh  e ; 

Cha  n-fharmadach  am  beartas  e.  90 

Fhuair  mi  orra  dearbhadh 
Gu'n  spothadh  iad  na  deargannan, 
A  dh'  fheuchainn  'm  faigh  iad  airgead 
'S  a'  mhargadh  air  na  clachan  ac" ! 

'S  grunndail,  cruaidh  mu'n  t-saoghal  so  iad,  95 

Cunntaidh  iad  na  faochagan  ; 
A  chionn  gur  fas'  an  sgaoileadh 
Na'm  faotainn  air  na  cladaichean. 
404 


SONG  TO  THE  INVER 

Three  persons  live  with  ways  that  blight, 
Unloved,  the  hangman  and  they  two ; 

With  poor  folk  they  are  no  delight. 
Nor  favourites  with  the  well-to-do. 

Their  friends  dislike  they  always  bear, 
Where  they'd  not  look  for  are  their  foes ; 

The  hate  of  the  whole  world  they  share. 
Love  or  respect  them  no  one  does. 

Sad  is  the  name  that  they  will  leave. 
They  are  not  like  to  their  forebears ; 

I  hope  their  children  will  not  cleave 
To  yon  disgraceful  ways  of  theirs. 

Them  at  the  outset  we  beheld 
Without  fame,  fortune,  or  degree. 

In  a  wretched  famine-stricken  bield. 
Their  only  treasure  poverty. 

All  that  they  won  in  bargains  so 
Cheating  from  other  folks  by  guile. 

As  it  was  gotten  it  will  go, 
'Tis  riches  that's  not  enviable. 

Against  them  did  I  proof  obtain 

That  they  would  even  geld  the  fleas. 

To  try  if  they  would  siller  gain 
In  the  fair  for  their  testes  ! 

About  this  world  they're  hard  and  near. 
They'll  count  the  periwinkles  o'er ; 

For  scattering  them  is  easier 

Than  gathering  them  upon  the  shore. 

405 


CEAD  DEIREANNACH 

'S  iad  luchd  a'  chridhe  chrin 

Tha  deanta  ris  a**  mhiodhoireachd ;  100 

Na'n  cuirte  bharr  na  criche  iad, 

Bha  'n  tir  so  air  a  gart-ghlanadh. 

Chi  sinn  fhathast  a"*  charait 

'S  na  drumachaii  r'am  masaibh, 

'Gan  cur  a  Bharabadoes,  105 

Gun  ghin  gu  brath  thighinn  dathaigh  dhiubh. 


CEAD  DEIREANNACH  NAM  BEANN. 

Bha  mi  'n  de  *  ''m  Beinn-dorain, 

'S  ''na  coir  cha  robh  mi  aineolach, 
Chunna'  mi  na  gleanntan 

'S  na  beanntaichean  a  b'  aithne  dhomh : 
B'  e  sin  an  sealladh  eibhinn  5 

Bhi  'g  imeachd  air  na  sleibhtean, 
'N  uair  bhiodh  a'  ghrian  ag  eirigh, 

'S  a  bhiodh  na  feidh  a'  langanaich. 

'S  aobhach  a'  ghreigh  uallach, 

'N  uair  ghluaiseadh  iad  gu  farumach  ;  10 

""S  na  h-eildean  air  an  fhuaran, 

Bu  chuannar  na  laoigh  bhallach  ann 
Na  maoisleichean  's  na  ruadh-bhuic, 
Na  coilich  dhubh  is  ruadha, 
'S  e  'n  ceol  bu  bhinne  chualas  15 

'N  uair  chluinnt'  am  fuaim  's  a'  chamhanaich. 

*  19th  September  1802. 
406 


A  LAST  FAREWELL 

They  are  the  folk  of  the  withered  hearts 
That  for  all  stinginess  are  planned ; 

Had  they  been  sent  across  the  march, 
Well  rid  of  them  had  been  this  land. 

We  yet  shall  see  the  same  twae  joes 
With  the  drums  beating  at  their  rear, 

Sending  them  both  to  Barbadoes, 
And  neither  e'er  home  coming  here. 


THE  LAST  FAREWELL  OF  THE  BENS. 

Yesterday  Ben  Dorain  • 

I  climbed,  no  stranger  to  the  view, 

I  gazed  the  valleys  o'er,  and 

The  mountains  that  I  ever  knew : 

A  scene  of  joy  surprising 

To  tread  the  slopes'  horizon. 

What  time  the  sun  was  rising, 

And  loud  the  deer  were  bellowing  too. 

Joyous  is  the  gay  herd. 

When  on  they  wander  noisily ; 
The  hinds  are  on  the  well  sward. 

Neat  spotted  calves  there  cosy  lie : 
The  does,  the  roebuck  lowing, 
The  black  cock,  red  cock  crowing. 
Their  sound  heard  at  the  dawing — 
Ne'er  heard  was  sweeter  melody. 


407 


CEAD  DEIREANNACH 

'S  togarrach  a  dh'  fhalbhainn 

Gu  sealgaireachd  nam  bealaichean, 
Dol  mach  a  dhireadh  garbhlaich, 

'S  gu'm  b"*  anmoch  tighinn  gu  baile  mi :  20 

An  t-uisge  glan  's  am  faile 
Th'  air  muUach  nam  beann  arda, 
Chuidich  e  gu  fas  mi 

'S  e  rinn  domh  slaint'  is  fallaineachd. 


Fhuair  mi  greis  am  arach  25 

Air  airighnean  a  b'  aithne  dhomh, 
Ri  cluiche,  's  mire,  's  manran, 

'S  bhi  'n  caoimhneas  blath  nan  caileagan : 
Bu  chuis  an  aghaidh  naduir, 

Gu'm  maireadh  sin  an  drasd'  ann,  30 

'S  e  b'  eiginn  bhi  'gam  fagail 

'N  uair  thainig  trath  dhuinn  dealachadh. 

Nis  o'n  bhuail  an  aois  mi, 

Fhuair  mi  gaoid  a  mhaireas  domh, 
Rinn  milleadh  air  mo  dheudach  35 

'S  mo  leirsinn  air  a  dalladh  orm : 
Cha  n-urrainn  mi  bhi  treubhach, 
Ged  a  chuirinn  feum  air, 
^S  ged  bhiodh  an  ruaig  am  dheidh-sa, 

Cha  dean  mi  ceum  ro  chabhagach.  40 

Ged  tha  mo  cheann  air  hathadh, 

'S  mo  chiabhagan  air  tanachadh, 
'S  trie  a  leig  mi  mial-chu 

Ri  fear  fiadhaich,  ceannartach : 

408 


A  LAST  FAREWELL 

I  eagerly  would  forth  fare 

To  hunt  upon  the  passes  high, 
To  climb  at  noon  the  wilds  bare, 
Nor  home  till  late  returning  I : 
The  limpid  waters  flowing, 
The  mountain  breezes  blowing, 
They  helped  me  in  my  growing. 
Health  gave  me  and  solidity. 

As  I  grew  up  I  spent  a  while 

At  shielings  that  were  in  my  ken, 
In  sport  and  play  with  maidens 

Who  kindness  warm  showed  me  again 
That  were  a  case  'gainst  nature. 
It  must  not  stay — that  feature, 
We  left  them — each  fair  creature, 

When  came  the  hour,  we  severed  then. 

Now  since  age  has  smote  me, 

I've  got  a  hurt  that  bides  with  me : 

Ruined  teeth  it  brought  me. 

My  vision  clear  it  hides  with  me : 

I  can't  of  strenuous  mind  be. 

However  need  inclined  me ; 

Though  pursuit  were  behind  me, 
I'd  take  no  step  too  hurriedly. 

Although  my  head  is  silvered, 

And  thin  and  spare  my  haffits  grow. 
Oft  have  I  slipt  a  greyhound 

At  wild  stag  with  high  an  tiered  brow : 

409 


CEAD  DEIREANNACH 

Ged  bu  toigh  learn  riamh  iad  45 

'S  ged  fhaicinn  air  an  t-sliabh  iad, 
Cha  teid  mi  nis  g'an  iarraidh 

O'n  chain  mi  trian  na  h-analach. 


Ri  am  dol  anns  a**  bhuireadh,  \ 

Bu  durachdach  a  leanainn  iad  :  50    \ 

'S  bhiodh  uair  aig  sluagh  na  duthcha  \ 

Toirt  orain  ura  's  rannachd  dhaibh  :  j 

Greis  eile  mar  ri  cairdean, 

'N  uair  bha  sinn  anns  na  campan, 

Bu  chridheil  anns  an  am  sinn  55 

"S  cha  bhiodh  an  dram  oirnn  annasach. 


'N  uair  bha  mi  'n  toiseach  m"*  oige, 

'S  i  ghoraich  a  chum  falamh  mi ; 
'S  e  fortan  tha  cur  oimne 

Gach  aon  ni  coir  a  ghealladh  dhuinn :  60 

Ged  tha  mi  gann  a  storas 
Tha  m**  inntinn  Ian  de  sholas, 
O'n  tha  mi  ann  an  dochas 

Gu'n  d'rinn  nighean  Deors'  an  t-aran  domh. 


Bha  mi  'n  de  'san  aonach  65 

'S  bha  smaointean  mdr  air  m'  aire-sa, 

Nach  robh  'n  luchd-gaoil  a  V  abhaist 
Bhi  siubhal  fasaich  mar  rium  ann : 

'S  a*"  bheinn  is  beag  a  shaoil  mi 

Gu'n  deanadh  ise  caochladh  ;  70 

O'n  tha  i  nis  fo  chaoraibh 

'S  ann  thug  an  saoghal  car  asam, 

410 


A  LAST  FAREWELL 

Though  I  did  ever  lo'e  them, 
And  on  the  slope  I  view  them, 
I  go  not  to  pursue  them, 

I've  lost  the  third  o'  my  breathing  now. 

When  they  went  a-pairing. 

The  closer  would  I  follow  them : 

With  country  folks  an  hour  came 

New  songs  and  verse  to  troll  to  them: 

With  friends  a  while,  too,  sharing. 

In  camps  when  we  were  faring. 

The  dram  we  were  not  sparing, 
O  never  were  we  dull  with  them. 

When  I  was  in  my  young  prime, 

My  folly  kept  me  penniless ; 
Us  fortune  is  assigning 

Each  promised  good,  not  any  less : 
Though  I'm  in  frugal  station 
My  mind  is  in  elation. 
For  I'm  in  expectation 

That  George's  girl  secured  my  mess. 

On  the  moor  I  was  yesterday 

And  greatly  thoughts  were  moving  me. 
The  friends  no  more  who  with  me 

Were  o'er  the  pastures  roaming  free : 

The  Ben,  I  ne'er  was  dreaming 

That  it  would  change  its  seeming ; 

Since  now  with  sheep  it's  teeming. 

Ah  !  false  the  world  has  proved  to  me. 
411 


RATNN  CLAIDHEIMH 

'N  uair  sheall  mi  air  gach  taobh  dhiom 
Cha  n-fhaodainn  gun  bhi  smalanach, 

O*"]!  theirig  coill  is  fraoch  ann,  75 

'S  na  daoine  bh"*  ann,  cha  mhaireann  iad : 

Cha  n'eil  fiadh  r'a  shealg  ann, 

Cha  n'eil  eun  no  earb  ann, 

'M  beagan  nach  'eil  marbh  dhiubh, 

'S  e  rinn  iad  falbh  gu  baileach  as.  80 

Mo  shoraidh  leis  na  frithean, 

0*s  miorbhailteach  na  beannan  iad, 
Le  biolair  uaine  is  fior-uisg, 

Deoch  uasal,  riomhach,  cheanalta : 
Na  blaran  a  tha  priseil,  85 

'S  na  fasaichean  tha  lionmhor, 
O  's  ait  a  leig  mi  dhiom  iad, 

Gu  brath  mo  mhile  beannachd  leo ! 


I 


RAINN  CLAIDHEIMH. 

Gu'm  bu  slan  do  laimh  an  larla 

A  chuir  am  charaibh 
An  claidheamh  fhuair  mi  Di-ceudaoin 

Ann  am  Bealach ;  * 
Stailinn  cruadhach,  buadhor,  ceutach, 

'S  e  geur,  tana, 
Nach  lub,  's  nach  leumadh,  's  nach  bearnadh, 

'S  nach  gabh  camadh. 

*In  March  1793. 

412 


VERSES  ON  A  SWORD 

When  I  looked  round  on  all  sides 
I  could  not  but  misgiving  feel, 

Since  wood  and  heath  have  failed  there, 
The  men  that  were,  not  living  still : 

There  is  no  deer  to  slay  there, 

No  bird  exists,  or  rae  there. 

They've  all  gone  quite  away  there, 
The  few  survivors  yet  to  kill. 

My  farewell  to  the  forests, 

O  passing  wondrous  mountains  they. 
With  cresses  green,  where  well  springs. 

Rare,  rich,  mild  drinking-fountains  play 
The  moorlands,  dear  and  splendid. 
The  pastures  far  extended — 
I've  left  the  scene,  'tis  ended : 

My  thousand  blessings  with  them  stay ! 


VERSES  ON  A  SWORD. 

May  the  Earl's  hand  be  sained 

Who  put  my  way 
The  brand  in  Taymouth  I  obtained 

On  Wednesday ; 
Fine  hard  steel  for  valorous  part, 

Sharp  and  thin, 
'Twill  not  bend,  or  notch,  or  start, 

Or  crook  in. 

413 


RAINN  CLAIDHEIMH 

Claidheamh  cuil  a  choisinn  cliu, 

Ged  fhuair  e  fheuchainn,  10 

""S  trie  a  thug  e  buille  druiteach 

Le  laimh  threubhaich ; 
Sar  cheann-Ileach,  laidir,  dionach, 

'S  lann  d'a  reir  sin, 
Ghearradh  e  ubhal  air  uisge  15 

Le  fior  gheuraid. 

Claidheamh  li-ghorm  nan  tri  chlaisean, 

Fhuair  a  chleachdadh  ris  na  creuchdan, 
B'  fheairrde  duin'-uasal  'na  ghlaic  e, 

Na'm  biodh  e  ""san  fheachd  ag  eirigh  :  20 

'S  deas  a  laigheadh  e  air  gaisgeach, 

'N  uair  a  rachadh  e  ceart  'na  eididh, 
'S  bhiodh  ""ga  ghiulan  an  crios-gualainn 

Air  uachdar  breacan-an-fheiHdh. 

'N  uair  bha  'n  saoghal  an  aimhreit,  25 

'S  anns  a'  champ  as  trie  a  bha  e, 
'S  cha  do  chuir  riamh  fear  a  ghiulain 

Cul  r'a  namhaid ; 
Gach  duine  a  tharraing  a  truaill  e, 

'S  ann  air  a  bha  bhuaidh  gach  larach  ;  30 

'S  e  's  fearr  a  thainig  riamh  a  ceardaich, 

'S  a  rinneadh  le  Aindrea  Farara. 

'S  e  rinn  Aindrea  'n  obair  cheutach, 
A  thoihcheadh  miann  gach  Gaidheil ; 

'S  eireachdail  e  air  an  t-sHasaid,  35 

'S  cha  mheasa  gu  gniomh  'san  laimh  e  : 
414 


VERSES  ON  A  SWORD 

A  backsword  that  won  renown, 

Though  it  had  trial, 
Oft  with  strong  hand  blows  rained  down. 

Brooked  no  denial ; 
Islay  hilt  strong,  firm  for  slaughter, 

Blade  to  match  it, 
'T would  cut  apple  upon  water, 

Sharp  despatch  it. 


Sword  blue-coloured  with  third  groove. 

Which  at  wounds  found  use  surprising. 
Gentleman  would  it  approve 

In  his  grasp  in  war  arising : 
Neat  'twould  lie  upon  a  hero. 

With  his  arms  who  went  arrayed. 
Carrying  it  at  his  shoulder-belt. 

Above  the  belted  plaid. 

When  the  world  was  in  confusion, 

In  the  camp  it  used  to  be, 
And  never  did  its  wearer 

Show  his  back  to  enemy ; 
Each  man  that  has  unsheathed  it. 

Won  all  fields  in  stricken  war,  ah  ! 
Tis  the  best  e^er  came  from  forge. 

And  made  by  Andrea  Ferrara. 

Andrea  made  the  work  supremely, 
Which  proves  all  Gaels'*  satisfaction  ; 

Upon  the  thigh  'tis  seemly 

And  no  worse  in  hand  for  action : 
415 


I 


RAINN  DO'N  CHEUD  CHEAIRD 

Bha  e  tamull  aig  na  Fianntaibh, 

Daoine  fiadhaich  anns  na  blaraibh ; 
'S  rinneadh  e  'n  toiseach  do  Dhiarmad — 

'S  ann  aig  sliochd  Dhiarmaid  a  tha  e.  40 


RAINN  DO^N  CHEUD  CHEAIRD. 

'S  I  cheud  cheaird  an  taillearachd, 

O's  i  rinn  Adhamh  air  thus, 
A'  cheaird  as  luaithe  a  ghnathaicheadh, 

'S  gu  brath  nach  leig  iad  diubh ; 
Am  fad  's  a  bhios  na  mathraichean  5 

A'  breith  nam  paisdean  ruisgf, 
Bidh  feum  air  gniomh  na  snathaide 

G"'an  cumail  blath  gu  dluth. 

Chaidh  Adhamh  a  chur  's  a'  Gharadh, 

Cha  V  e  'n  t-ait  'n  do  chuir  e  dhuil,  10 

Bu  choma  leis  bhi  saoithreachadh 

Feadh  chraobh  's  ag  cur  nam  flur ; 
Cha  bheireadh  e  air  sluasaid, 

'S  cha  ruamhradh  e  'n  uir, 
Cha  mho  a  ghabh  e  caibe,  15 

Cha  n-oibricheadh  e  turn. 

'S  i  Eubha  fhuaradh  tamail teach 

Le  danadas  gun  tur, 
'N  uair  thug  i  ^n  t-ubhal  alainn 

A  barr  a^  ghallain  uir ;  20 

416 


ON  THE  FIRST  CRAFT 

For  some  time  Fingalians  owned  it, 

Wild  men  they  through  war-fields  sweeping, 

It  was  made  at  first  for  Diarmid — 
It  bides  in  Clan  Diarmid's  keeping. 


VERSES  ON  THE  FIRST  CRAF1\ 

The  primal  craft  was  tailoring. 

It  Adam  first  did  try, 
Craft  which  was  earliest  practised 

And  which  they'll  ne'er  lay  by ; 
As  long  as  there  are  mothers, 

Bearing  weans,  a  callow  swarm, 
There  will  be  need  for  needle-work 

To  keep  them  close  and  warm. 

Adam  was  put  in  the  garden. 

Discontent  his  heart  devours. 
He  little  cared  for  toiling 

Among  trees,  and  planting  flowers ; 
Of  shovel  he  would  not  lay  hold. 

He  would  not  delve  the  ground, 
No  more  would  he  touch  spade, 

Of  work  he  would  not  do  a  round. 

'Twas  Eve  was  found  the  offender 
Through  her  senseless  hardihood. 

She  took  the  splendid  apple 

From  the  top  of  the  fresh  wood  ; 

417  2  D 


MARBH-EANN  DHA  FEIN- 
'S truagh  gun  tug  i  dhasan  e, 

Bu  daor  a  phaigh  e'n  sugh, 
lad  le  cheile  bhasachadh, 

'S  na  thainig  de  shliochd  dhiubh  ! 

Chunnaic  an  sin  Adhamh  25 

Gu'n  robh  nochd  'sa  naire  ruisgt', 
De'n  droigheann  ghabh  e  snathadan, 

'S  rinn  e  snath  de'n  rusg ; 
Dh"*  fhuaigh  e  duilleagan  nan  geug 

Mu'  bheulaibh  's  air  a  chul ;  30 

Dhiult  e  bhi  'na  gharadair — 

B'  e  'n  taillearachd  a  run. 


B'  e  cheud  fhear-ceaird  'san  t-saoghal  e, 

Cha  d'  fheud  e  bhi  gun  chHu, 
'S  nach  robh  e  riamh  'na  fhoghlumaich,  35 

Ach  fhaotainn  le  beachd  sul ; 
Gun  snath,  gun  olainn  chaorach, 

Rinn  e  deise  dh'  aodach  ur ; 
Bha  e  urramach  'na  thaillear — 

Cha  b'  fhear-garaidh  e  co-dhiubh.  40 


MARBH-RANN  AN  UGHDAIR  DHA  FEIN. 

Fhir  tha  'd  sheasamh  air  mo  lie 
Bha  mise  mar  tha  thu  'n  drasd' ; 

'S  i  mo  leabadh  'n  diugh  an  uaigh, 

Cha  n'eil  smior  no  smuais  am  chnaimh : 
418 


EPITAPH  ON  HIMSELF 

Alas !  that  it  she  gave  to  him, 
Dear  paid  he  for  the  same, 

That  both  of  them  should  die,  and  all 
The  race  that  from  them  came. 

Then  Adam  saw  that  he  was. 

In  his  unclothed  shame,  naked. 
Of  thorn  he  took  him  needles 

And  of  bark  he  made  a  thread  ; 
He  sewed  leaves  from  the  branches 

Before  him  and  behind. 
He  scorned  to  be  a  gardener. 

Tailoring  was  to  his  mind. 

First  craftsman  in  the  world  he  was 

And  unfamed  could  not  be, 
That  he  was  ne'er  apprentice 

But  by  using  eyes  learnt  he ; 
Without  or  yarn  or  sheep's  wool 

He  made  set  of  garments  new ; 
Respectable  as  tailor — 

As  a  gardener  he'd  not  do. 


THE  AUTHOR'S  EPITAPH  ON  HIMSELF. 

As  thou  art  now  so  once  was  I, 

Man  who  art  standing  on  this  stone; 

The  grave  it  is  my  bed  to-day. 
No  juice  or  marrow  in  my  bone ; 
419 


MARBH-RANN  DHA  FEIN 

Ged  tha  thusa  laidir,  6g,  •  5 

Cha  mhair  thu  beo,  ged  fhuair  thu  dail ; 

Gabh  mo  chomhairle  's  bi  glic, 
Cuimhnich  trie  gu'n  tig  am  bas. 

Cuimhnich  fanam  is  do  Shlanuighear 

Cuimhnich  Parras  thar  gach  ait ;  10 

Gabh  an  cothrom  gu  bhi  sabhailt 

Ann  an  gairdeachas  gu  brath : 
Ged  a  thuit  sinn  anns  a'  Gharadh 

Leis  an  fhaiUinn  a  rinn  Adhamh, 
Dh'eirich  ar  misneach  as  ur  15 

'N  uair  fhuair  sinn  Cumhnant  nan  Gras. 

Cuimhnich  daonnan  a  chur  romhad 

Gu'n  coimhead  thu  a  h-uile  aithn\ 
O  's  e  cumhachdan  an  ard-Righ 

Rinn  am  fagail  air  da  chlar  ;  20 

Chaidh  sin  a  liubhairt  do  Mhaois, ; 

Rinn  Maois  an  liubhairt  do  chach ; 
Na'm  b'urrainn  sinne  g''am  freagradh, 

Cha  b'aobhar  eagail  am  bas. 

Caochladh  beatha  th'  ann  's  cha  bhas,  25 

Le  beannachadh  grasmhor,  buan  ; 
Gach  neach  a  ni  a"*  chuid  as  fhearr, 

'S  maith  an  t-ait  am  faigh  e  dhuais : 
Cha  bhi  'n  t-anam  ann  an  cas, 

Ged  tha  "n  corp  a'  t^mh  ""san  uaigh  30 

Gus  an  latha  ""n  tig  am  brath 

'S  an  eirich  sliochd  Adhaimh  suas. 
420 


EPITAPH  ON  HIMSELF 

And  thou,  though  thou  art  strong  and  young. 
Wilt  not  survive,  though  gain"'st  delay ; 

O  take  my  counsel  and  be  wise, 

Think  oft  that  death  will  not  away. 

Think  of  thy  soul,  thy  Saviour  dear. 

Of  Paradise  each  place  before ; 
Seize  the  occasion  to  be  saved 

In  blessedness  for  evermore : 
Although  we  in  the  Garden  fell, 

Where  Adam  fell  in  sin's  embrace. 
Afresh  our  courage  rose  when  we 

Received  the  Covenant  of  Grace. 


Remember  aye  that  thou  resolve 

To  each  commandment  thou  wilt  cleave. 
The  powers  of  the  King  Supreme 

Did  them  upon  two  tables  leave ; 
To  Moses  those  delivered  were, 

Moses  to  all  delivered  hath ; 
And  could  we  but  to  them  conform. 

There  were  no  cause  of  fear  in  death. 

A  change  to  life  it  is,  not  death. 

With  blessings  lasting,  full  of  grace ; 
Each  one  who  acts  the  better  part 

His  meed  reaps  in  the  happy  place : 
The  soul  will  never  be  in  woe, 

Tho'  in  the  grave  the  body  lies 
Until  the  day  of  judgment  come, 

When  all  of  Adam's  seed  shall  rise. 
421 


MARBH-RANN  DHA  FEIN 

Seinnear  an  trompaid  gu  h-ard, 

Cluinnear  's  a  h-uile  ait  a  fuaim  ; 
Duisgear  na  mairbh  as  a'  bhlar  35 

'N  do  charaich  each  iad  'nan  suain : 
S  mheud  's  a  chailleadh  le  an-uair, 

No  le  annradh  fuar  a'  chuain  ; 
Gu  Sliabh  Shioin  theid  an  sluagh, 

Dh'  fhaotainn  buaidh  le  full  an  Uain.  40 

Gheibh  iad  buaidh,  mar  fhuair  an  slol 

A  chinn  lionmhor  anns  an  fhonn  ; 
Cuid  deth  dh''fhas  gu  fallain,  direach, 

'S  cuid  'na  charran  iosal,  crom  : 
Gleidhear  a'  chuid  a  tha  liontach,  45 

Am  bheil  brlgh  is  torradh  trom  ; 
Caillear  a'  chuid  a  bhios  aotrom, 

'S  leigear  leis  a'  ghaoith  am  moll. 

Cha  n'eil  bean  na  duine  beo, 

Na  lanain  phosta  nach  dealaich ;  50 

Bha  iad  lionmhor  sean  is  6g 

Ar  luchd-eolais  nach  'eil  maireann : 
Cha  V  e  sin  an  f-aobhar  broin 

Bhi  'gan  cur  fo'n  fhod  am  falach : 
Na'm  biodh  am  bas  'na  bhas  glan,  55 

Cha  bu  chas  talamh  air  thalamh. 

Ghabh  mi  nis  mo  chead  de'n  t-saoghal 

'S  de  na  daoine  dh'fhuirich  ann  ; 
Fhuair  mi  greis  gu  sunntach,  aotrom, 

'S  i  'n  aois  a  rinn  m'  fhagail  fann : 

422 


EPITAPH  ON  HIMSELF 

Loudly  will  the  trumpet  sound, 

And  everywhere  its  note  be  heard ; 
The  dead  awakened  from  the  ground 

Where  others  them  asleep  interred : 
As  many  as  were  lost  by  storm, 

Or  by  cold  tempest  of  the  sea  ; 
To  Zion  Hill  the  folk  will  go 

By  th"*  Lamb's  blood  to  gain  victory. 

They  will  gain  victory,  as  gained 

I'  the  soil  when  sprang  the  abundant  seed 
Some  of  it  grew  straight  and  sound 

And  some  to  low  and  crooked  weed  : 
And  kept  will  be  the  part  that's  full. 

Where  pith  and  heavy  fruit  doth  grow ; 
And  lost  wiU  be  the  part  that's  light, 

The  chaff  with  th'  wind  will  be  let  go. 

There  is  no  living  woman  or  man, 

Or  wedded  pair  but  they  will  sever ; 
Ah  !  numerous  were  they  old  and  young 

Our  friends  that  are  no  more  for  ever : 
But  that  was  not  the  cause  of  grief 

To  lay  them  hidden  'neath  the  clay : 
If  death  were  sinless,  "  earth  to  earth  " 

Were  then  no  dread  calamity. 

Now  I  have  ta'en  my  leave  o'  the  world 
And  those  that  lingered  on  its  stage ; 

IVe  spent  a  space  of  mirth  and  joy. 
And  what  has  left  me  weak  is  age : 

423 


MARBH-RANN  DHA  FEIN 

Tha  mo   thalantan  air  caochladh, 

'S  an  t-aog  air  tighinn  'san  am ; 
'S  e  m"*  athchuinge,  air  sgath  m'  Fhear-saoraidh, 

Bhi  gu  maith  'san  t-saoghal  thall. 


i 


424 


From  a  Drawing  by  Thomas  Ross,  LL.D. 
THE    POET'S    GRAVE    IN    THE    GREYFRIARS    CHURCHYARD,  EDINBURGH. 


To  face  p.  424. 


EPITAPH  ON  HIMSELF 

My  faculties  have  suffered  change, 
And  opportunely  death  is  come ; 

"^Tis  my  prayer,  for  my  Saviour's  sake, 
Happy  to  be  in  yonder  home. 


425 


APPENDICES 

APPENDIX  I 


AOIR  IAIN  FHAOCHAIG 


AOIR  IAIN  FHAOCHAIG. 

Iain  Faochaig  ann  an  Sasunn, 

'S  mor  a  mhasladh  is  a  mhi-chliu, 
Chaill  e  na  bh'  aige  de  chairdean, 

'S  tha  naimhdean  air  cinntinn  lionar. 
Ge  b'  fhada  theich  e  air  astar,  $ 

Chaidh  a  ghlacadh,  's  tha  e  ciosnaicht' ; 
Ch^raich  iad  e  fo  na  glasan, 

'S  tha  'n  iuchair  taisgt'  aig  maor  a'  phriosain. 

Tha  e  nis  an  aite  cumhann, 

'S  e  'na  chruban,  dubhach,  deurach,  10 

A  chas  daingean  ann  an  iarunn, 

'Ga  phianadh,  is  e  'na  eiginn. 
B'  fhasa  dha  bhi  anns  an  fhiabhras 

Na  'n  iargain  a  tha  'na  chreubhaig ; 
'S  e  'n  sin  o  chionn  corr  is  bliadhna,  15 

A  h-uile  latha  'g  iarraidh  r6ite. 

Ach,  na'm  faigheadh  tusa  reite 

An  eirig  na  rinn  thu  sheanchas, 
B'aobhar-misnich  do  gach  beist  e 

Gu'm  faodadh  iad  fein  do  leanmhuinn ;  20 

Fear  gun  seadh,  gun  lagh,  gun  reusan, 

'S  anns  an  eucoir  ata  t'  earbsa  ; 
Theann  thu  mach  o  achd  na  cleire, 

'S  thug  thu  boid  nach  eisd  thu  searraoin  ! 

Thug  thu  diraeas  air  an  Eaglais,  25 

Air  a'  chreidimh,  's  air  na  h-kithntean, 
Chuir  thu  breugan  air  an  Trianaid 

'S  air  na  h-iarrtasan  a  dh'  fhag  iad  : 
Tha  e  nis  'na  ghnothach  coltach 

'Reir  an  t-soisgeil  tha  mi  claistinn,  30 

Gu'n  do  chuir  thu  ciil  ri  sochair 

Na  saors'  a  choisinn  ar  Slanuighear. 
428 


SATIRE  ON  JOHN  WHELKS 


SATIRE  ON  JOHN  WHELKS. 

John  Whelks  (or  Wilkes)  in  England, 

Great's  his  bad  fame  and  ill  omen. 
The  friends  he  had,  he  lost  them. 

And  grown  numerous  are  his  foemen. 
Though  he  fled  to  a  far  distance, 

They  did  catch  him  and  prevail  o'er ; 
They  have  put  him  under  locks. 

The  key's  entrusted  to  the  jailer. 

He  is  now  in  narrow  environ. 

He  a  gloomy  wretch  and  tearful, 
Well  secured  his  foot  in  iron. 

Paining  him  with  anguish  fearful. 
He'd  be  easier  in  a  fever 

Than  i'  the  pain  his  frame's  so  hard  on  ; 
He  is  there  more  than  a  year  gone. 

Every  day  he's  asking  pardon. 

But  if  you  obtained  a  pardon 

For  the  speeches  that  you  made,  man, 
'Twould  encourage  every  beast 

That  they  might  follow  where  you  led,  man  ; 
You  without  sense,  law,  or  reason, 

'Tis  in  sin  is  your  sole  care,  man  ; 
You've  outgone  the  law  of  the  clergy. 

Sworn  you'll  never  hear  a  sermon. 

You've  done  despite  to  the  Church, 

To  the  commandments,  and  the  faith  true. 
At  the  Trinity  cast  lies 

And  at  the  injunctions  which  they  left  you  : 
It  is  now  a  likely  matter 

From  the  gospel  that  I've  pored  on, 
You  have  forfeited  the  boon 

Of  the  salvation  which  our  Lord  won. 
429 


AOm  IAIN  FHAOCHAIG 

Chuir  thu  cul  ri  d'  bhoidean-baistidh, 

'S  raor  a  mhasladh  dhuit  an  aicheadh  ; 
Chain  thu  chuirt  am  biodh  an  ceartas,  35 

Roghnaich  thu  'm  peacadh  'na  h-aite  ; 
Ghleidh  thu  'n  riaghailt  's  an  seol  stiuiridh 

A  bh'aig  ludas,  do  dhearbh-bhrathair  ; 
'S  mor  an  sgainneal  air  do  dhuthaich, 

Thusa,  bhruid,  gu'n  d'  rinn  thu  fas  innt*.  40 

Ach,  ged  a  sheallte  h-uUe  doire, 

"  Cha  robh  coille  riamh  gun  chrionach  "  ; 
'S  tha  fios  aig  an  t-saoghal  buileach 

Nach  bi  choill  uile  cho  direach  : 
'S  tusa  chraobh  tha  'n  deidh  seacadh,  45 

Gun  chairt,  gun  mheangain,  gun  mheuran, 
Gun  snothach,  gun  shiigh,  gun  duilleach. 

Gun  riisg,  gun  uiread  nam  freurahan. 

'S  tu  an  t-eun  a  chaidh  'san  deachamh, 

'S  e  nead  creacht'  an  deachaidh  t'  fhagail ;  50 

'S  tu  'm  fitheach  nach  d'  rinn  an  ceartas, 

A  chaidh  air  theachdaireachd  o  'n  aire. 
'S  tu  'ra  madadh-allaidh  gun  fhiaclan, 

'S  mairg  a  dh'iarradh  bhi  mar  tha  thu  ; 
'S  tu  'n  ceann-cinnidh  aig  na  biastan,  65 

'S  tha  gach  duin'  as  fhiach  a'  tair  ort. 

Cha  n-ioghnadh  leam  thu  bhi  'd  bhalach. 

Is  bhi  salach  ann  do  nadar, 
O'n  a  lean  thu  ris  an  duthchas 

A  bh'  aig  na  sgiursairean  o'n  tain'  thu  !  60 

'S  tu  'n  t-isean  a  fhuair  an  t-umaidh 

Ris  an  t-siiirsaich  air  na  sraidean  : — 
'S  i  'n  droch-bheairt  a  thog  ad  chloinn  thu, 

'S  ann  ad  shlaightire  chaidh  t'  arach  ! 

Thoisich  thu  'n  toiseach  gu  h-iosal  65 

Air  a'  chrine  's  air  a'  bhochdainn  ; 
'S  e  'n  donas  thug  dhuit  a  bhi  sporsail 

'S  ann  bu  choir  dhuit  bhi  'gad  chosnadh  : 
'S  bochd  nach  d'  fhan  thu  aig  do  dhuthchas, 

Ad  bhriiithair  a'  bruich  nam  poitean,  70 

Ag  cumail  dighe  ris  gach  grudair' 

'N  uair  a  dhriiidheadh  iad  na  botail. 
430 


SATIRE  ON  JOHN  WHELKS 

You've  forsworn  your  vows  baptismal, 

Them,  to  your  great  shame,  rejected  ; 
You've  lost  the  court  of  righteousness, 

Sin  in  its  place  elected  ; 
You've  retained  his  rules  and  conduct, 

Judas's,  your  brother's,  suit  you ; 
Great's  the  scandal  to  your  country 

That  you  grew  in  her,  you  brute  you ! 

But  though  every  brake  were  looked  through, 

Ne'er  was  wood  but  some  did  wither ; 
And,  the  whole  world  well  knows  it, 

All  the  wood's  not  straight  together  : 
You're  the  tree  that  has  been  shrivelled. 

Without  bark,  or  boughs,  or  shootlets, 
Without  sap,  or  juice,  or  leafage. 

Without  rind,  or  even  rootlets. 

You're  the  bird  went  into  the  tithe. 

You  got  left  on  a  nest  was  harried  ; 
You're  the  raven  did  not  right, 

When  message  from  the  Ark  you  carried. 
You  are  the  toothless  wolf, 

And  woe  to  him  would  imitate  you ; 
You're  the  head  of  the  canaille. 

And  every  man  of  worth  doth  hate  you. 

You're  a  clown — I  do  not  wonder — 

And  you're  unclean  in  your  nature. 
Traits  the  scourges  had  you  came  from. 

You're  inclined  to— every  feature ! 
You're  the  progeny  a  dolt  got 

From  a  quean  on  the  streets  mated  :-— 
'Twas  depravity  that  bred  you 

Who  a  scamp  were  educated  ! 

You  began  at  first  not  uppish 

In  mean  poverty  congenial ; 
But  the  devil  made  you  foppish 

For  you  ought  to  have  been  a  menial : 
Pity  you  staid  not  at  your  calling 

As  a  brewster  boiling  pottles. 
Keeping  tapsters  all  in  liquor. 

When  they  would  drain  dry  the  bottles. 
431 


AOIR  IAIN  FHAOGHAIG 

Bha  thu,  greis  de  d'  thim,  ad  bhaigear, 

'S  laigh  thu  'n  fhad  sin  air  na  cairdean, 
A  bhi  oidhche  's  gach  tigh  a's  duthiach,  75 

A  dhuirigeadh  cuid  an  trath'  dhuit : 
A  mheud  's  a  bha  de  dh'ainfhiach  ortsa 

Chuir  thu  cuid  nam  bochd  g'a  phaigheadh  : 
Ciod  e  nis  a  chuir  an  stoc  thu 

Ach  an  robaireachd  's  a'  mh^irle  ?  80 

Shaoil  thu  gu'm  faigheadh  tu  achain, 

(Bu  mhasladh  gu'm  biodh  i  'd  thairgse) 
Cead  suidhe  am  parlamaid  Bhreatunn, 

Gun  chiall,  gun  cheartas  ad  eanchainn. 
Duine  dall  a  chaidh  air  seachran,  85 

Nach  'eil  beachdail  air  na's  fhearr  dha, 
Le  comhradh  tubaisdeach,  tuisleach, 

'S  le  sior  dhroch-thuitearaas  cearbach. 

Duine  gun  fhearann,  gun  oighreachd, 

Gun  ni,  gun  staoile,  gun  airgead,  90 

Gun  bheus,  gun  chreideamh,  gun  chreideas, 

Gun  ghin  a  chreideas  a  sheanchas ; 
Duine  misgeach,  bristeach,  breugach, 

Burraidh  tha  'na  bheist  's  'na  ainmhidh, 
'S  trioblaid-inntinn,  le  itheadh  deisneach,  95 

Gu  trie  a'  teumadh  a'  chridh'  chealgaich. 

Tha  thu  sonraicht'  ann  ad  Chonan 

A'  togail  conais  am  measg  dhaoine, 
Cha  chualas  roimhe  do  choimeas 

A  bhi  'dhonas  air  an  t-saoghal,  100 

Ach  an  Nathair  an  Garadh  Edein, 

A  mheall  Eubh'  aig  bun  na  craoibhe 
A  chomhairUch  gu  buain  a'  mhios  i, 

A  dh'  fhag  ris  an  cinne-daoine. 

Thoisich  thu  'n  toiseach  'san  eucoir  105 

Ag  innse  bhreugan  air  Righ  Deorsa  ; 
Cha  chreid  duine  uait  an  sgeul  ud, 

'S  cha  toir  iad  eisdeachd  do  d'  chomhradh  : 
'S  beag  a  dhruidheas  do  dhroch-dhiirachd 

Air  oighr'  a'  chruin  is  na  corach,  110 

'S  a  liuthad  neach  a  tha  gu  toileach 

A'  toirt  onorach  d'a  mhorachd. 
432 


i 


SATIRE  ON  JOHN  WHELKS 

You,  a  while  of  your  time  a  beggar. 

So  long  importuned  relations, 
To  be  a  night  in  each  house  i'  the  district, 

That  would  share  a  part  o'  their  rations  : 
You,  whate'er  debt  was  against  you. 

Set  to  pay  it  the  poors'  portion  : 
And  what  put  you  in  abundance  now 

But  thieving  and  extortion  r 

You  thought  you'd  get  a  writ 

(A  great  disgrace  'twas  in  your  oflfer) 
In  British  Commons,  right  to  sit. 

You,  a  wrongheaded,  senseless  scoffer ! 
A  blind  man,  that  wide  has  wandered, 

His  best  interests  not  observing, 
With  his  treacherous  talk  and  mischievous 

Into  constant  pitfalls  swerving. 

A  man  landless,  without  heritage, 

Or  money,  stock,  or  glory. 
Without  manners,  faith,  or  credit. 

And  with  none  to  trust  his  story ; 
A  man  drunken,  broken,  lying, 

Who  a  blockhead  and  brute  beast  is  : 
And  mind-trouble  with  sad  gnawing 

To  this  false  heart  oft  a  pest  is. 

You  are  distinguished  as  a  Conan 

Raising  among  men  strife  evil. 
Ne'er  heard  of  such  as  you  before 

In  the  world  as  such  a  devil, 
Save  the  Snake  in  the  Garden  of  Eden, 

Who  beguiled  Eve  at  the  tree  foot, 
And  who  counselled  her  to  pluck 

What  left  mankind  defenceless,  the  fruit. 

You  did  first  begin  in  sin. 

About  King  George  your  falsehoods  hawking ; 
No  man  credits  yon  tale  from  you 

Nor  will  listen  to  your  talking  : 
Your  ill-will  weighs  but  little 

On  the  heir  to  the  crown  and  the  right, 
Since  so  many  people  willingly 

Show  all  honour  to  his  might. 

433  2  E 


AOIR  IAIN  FHAOCHAIG 

Ge  beag  ortsa  morair  Loudain, 

B'  aithne  dhomhs'  an  sonn  o'n  d'  fhas  e, 
Duin'-uasal  foisinneach,  fonnor,  115 

Cridhe  connor,  aigneadh  arda  ; 
Seanalair,  air  thus  na  h-armailt, 

A  bha  ainmeil  anns  na  blaraibh  ; 
Cha  mhisd  e  madadh  air  bhaothal 

A  bhi  tabhannaich  an  tras  ris.  120 

'S  g6rach  a  labhair  thu  moran 

Air  cul  larla  Bhoid,  an  t-krmunn, 
Conspull  onorach,  le  firinn 

A'  seasamh  na  rioghachd  gu  laidir; 
S  e  gu  h-ard-urramach,  priseil,  125 

Ann  an  cuirt  an  Righ  's  na  Ban-righ 
A  dh'  aindeoin  na  Faochaig  's  nam  biastan 

Leis  am  b'  fhiach  dol  ann  am  pkirt  ris. 

Bhruidhinn  thu  gu  leir  mu  Albainn, 

'S  b'  fhearr  dhuit  gu'm  fanadh  tu  samhach  ;  130 

Na'n  tigeadh  tu  'n  coir  nan  Garbh-chrioch, 

Bu  mhairg  a  bhiodh  ann  at  aite  : 
Bhiodh  tu  'm  priosan  re  do  lathan 

Dh'  aindeoin  na  ghabhadh  do  phairt-sa  ; 
'S  an  eirig  na  rinn  thu  dhroch-bheairt,  135 

Bheirte  chroich  mar  ghalar-bais  dhuit. 

Cha  n-ioghnadh  dhuit  bhi  fo  mhulad, 

Fhuair  thu  diumb  gach  duin'  an  hi\  so  ; 
'S  e  sin  fein  a  bha  thu  cosnadh, 

'S  creutair  crosd  thu  o'n  a  dh'  fhas  thu  ;  140 

'S  honor  mi-run  ann  do  chuideachd — 

Mallachd  na  Cuigse  's  a'  Phap'  ort ! 
Mallachd  an  t-saoghail  gu  leir  ort ! 

'S  mo  rahallachd  fein  mar  ri  each  ort !  ! 


434 


SATIRE  ON  JOHN  WHELKS 

Lord  Loudon,  though  you  hate 

(I  knew  the  sire  from  whence  his  stature), 
A  quiet  pleasant  gentleman, 

A  wise  heart,  lofty  nature ; 
In  the  van  of  the  host  a  General 

Who  in  the  fields  had  fame  excelling ; 
He  is  none  worse  that  a  mad  dog 

Is  at  present  at  him  yelling. 

'Twas  foolish  your  much  speaking 

Behind  Bute  the  warrior  darkly, 
A  hero  famed  in  verity. 

For  the  realm  upstanding  starkly  ; 
He  is  highly  honoured,  much  loved 

In  the  court  of  the  King  and  Consort, 
In  spite  of  the  Whelks  and  beasts 

Who  condescend  to  herd  with  yon  sort. 

In  all  you've  said  of  Scotland, 

Better  you  had  quiet  rested  ; 
Should  you  come  a-nigh  the  Roughbounds 

Pity  him  that  stood  in  your  stead  : 
You'd  be  all  your  days  in  prison, 

Maugre  who  your  part  should  take,  man  ; 
And  for  all  the  ill  you've  done 

You'd  have  the  gallows  your  last  stake,  man. 

No  wonder  you're  in  woe, 

By  all  the  men  of  this  age  hated ; 
That  very  thing  you  earned, 

You  wretch,  curst  since  you  were  created. 
Ill-will  manifold  goes  with  you — 

Curse  of  Whigs  and  Pope  molest  you  ! 
The  whole  world's  curse  be  on  you ! 

And  my  curse  with  the  rest,  too  ! ! 


435 


MARBH-EANN  DO  CHU 


MARBH-RANN    DO   CHU   A   CHAIDH   TROIMH    'N    EIGH, 
'S  A'  MHAIGHEACH  TARSUINN  'NA  BHEUL. 

Latha  do  Phadruig  a'  sealg 

Am  fireach  nan  learg  air  sliabh, 

Thug  e  Ghleann-artanaig  sgriob 

'S  ann  thachair  e  'm  frith  nam  fiadh. 

Leig  e  'na  shiubhal  an  cii  5 

A  bha  luath,  laidir,  luthor,  dian, 

Cha  robh  a  leithid  riamh  'san  tir 

Ach  Bran  a  bh'  aig  Righ  nam  Fiann. 

Gadhar  bu  gharg  ch\g  is  fionnadh, 

Cruaidh,  colgarra,  suil  is  mala,  10 

Bu  mhath  dreach,  is  dealbh,  is  curaachd. 

An  curaidh  bu  gharg  's  a'  charraid  ; 

Bheireadh  e  'm  fiadh  dearg  a  muUach, 

'S  am  boc-earb*  a  dluthas  a'  bharraich : 

B'  e  fhasan  bhi  triall  do'n  mhonadh,  15 

'S  cha  tainig  e  riamh  dhathaigh  falamh. 

Culaidh  leagadh  nan  damh  donn 

Air  muUach  nan  tom  's  nan  cnoc, 

Namhaid  nam  biast  dubh  is  ruadh, 

'S  ann  air  a  bha  buaidh  nam  broc  :  20 

Bha  rahaigheach  tarsuinn  'na  bheul, 

Thuit  iad  le  cheil'  ann  an  sloe  ; 

Bha  iad  baite  bonn  ri  bonn, 

Is  muladach  sin  leam  an  nochd  ! 


436 


ELEGY  ON  A  DOG 


ELEGY   ON   A    DOG    THAT   WENT   THROUGH   THE    ICE 
WITH  A  HARE  IN  HIS  MOUTH. 

Once  when  Patrick  was  a-huntlng 

The  hill  of  the  passes  on  a  brae. 
He  took  a  turn  around  Glen-artney 

And  in  deer  forest  chanced  to  stray. 
He  let  the  dog  slip  out  of  hand 

Which  strong  and  swift  was,  vigorous,  keen, 
His  like  was  never  in  the  land 

Save  Bran,  the  dog  of  the  King  of  the  Feen. 

A  deer-hound  rough  of  bristle  and  pile, 

Hard  and  fierce  in  eyebrow  and  eye, 
Of  goodly  aspect  form  and  style, 

The  hero  in  fight  that  would  not  fly ; 
He'd  bring  from  summit  the  red  deer. 

The  buck  from  thicket  of  the  combe  : 
His  way  it  was  to  wend  to  the  mere, 

And  never  empty  came  he  home. 

A  means  to  lay  the  dun  stags  dead 

On  top  of  hillocks  and  of  knocks. 
Foe  of  the  beasts  both  black  and  red. 

He  gained  the  victory  o'er  the  brocks  : 
There  was  a  hare  held  in  his  mouth 

Both  fell  in  a  pit,  a  woeful  pHght, 
And  they  were  drowned,  sole  unto  sole, 

And  that  is  why  I'm  sad  to-night. 


437 


ORAN  EILE  DO'N  BHLAR 


ORAN  EILE  DO  BHLAR  NA  H-EAGLAISE  BRICE. 

Ged  a  tha  mi  'n  so  am  chruban 

Ann  an  seann  tigh  udlaidh,  uaigneach, 

Bha  mi  roimhe  mar  ri  cuideachd, 

Ged  a  thuit  dhaibh  mo  chur  uapa  : 

'S  trie  mi  'g  amharc  ris  an  aonach  5 

'M  faic  mi  t'aogas  Iain  'Ic-Ruairidh — 

'S  na'm  faicinn  thu  ri  tighinn 

Dh'eireadh  mo  chridhe  bho  smuairean. 

Dh'eireadh  m'  inntinnse  bho  smalan, 

Mi  bhi  mar  riut  Iain  'Ic-Ruairidh  ;  10 

Dh'innsinn  duit  na  bhiodh  air  m'aire, 

'S  bhithinn  farraid  na  bhiodh  uam  dheth, 

'N  la  sin  a  thug  iad  na  buillean, 

'S  mis'  chunnaic  bhi  'gam  bualadh  ; 

Chaidh  'n  teicheadh  air  taobh  Righ  Deorsa,  15 

'S  ann  oirnne  th^inig  am  fuathas  ! 

B'  e  sgeul  an  fhuathais  r'a  innse 

Gu'n  do  theich  an  Righ  's  a  mhuinntir ; 

Ghabh  iad  eagal  roimh  na  buillean 

'N  uair  a  chunnaic  iad  am  Prionnsa  •  20 

Cha  d'  fhan  duine  dhiubh  r'a  cheile, 

Eadar  Dun-eideann  is  Sruidhleadh  ; 

'S  iomadh  baile  'san  robh  pairt  dhiubh 

Gabhail  taimh  air  teachd  na  h-6idhche ! 

Bha  sinn  gu  misneachail,  dana,  25 

A'  dol  a  n-aird  a  dh'ionnsaidh  'n  t-Sleibhe, 
'S  mu'n  deachaidh  sinn  ceart  an  ordugh 
Thainig  iad  oirnne  na  reubail ! 
Cha  b'  fhada  mheal  sinn  an  arach, 

'N  uair  a  sganr  sinn  as  a  cheile  ;  30 

'S  ann  an  sin  a  bha  'n  droch  c^radh 
Air  na  bha  luchd  aodaich  dh^irg  ann. 
438 


ANOTHER  SONG  TO  THE  BATTLE 


ANOTHER  SONG  TO  THE  BATTLE  OF  FALKIRK. 

Though  I'm  here  a  creature  creeping 

In  a  darksome  lonely  shanty, 
Company  I  once  was  keeping, 

Though  it  befell  them  not  to  want  me : 
Oft  the  moorland  o'er  I'm  glancing 

Shall  I,  Rury,  see  your  figure — 
And  if  I  should  see  you  advancing. 

My  sad  heart  would  beat  with  vigour. 

My  mind  would  rise  from  deep  dejection, 

Me  being  with  you,  Ian  MacRury  ; 
I'd  tell  you  all  my  thoughts'  complexion 

And  what  I'd  like  to  know,  assure  me, 
On  that  day  that  they  the  blows  spent 

It  was  I  that  saw  them  striking ; 
To  King  George's  side  the  flight  leant, 

On  us  fright  fell  and  misliking. 

'Twere  a  dread  tale  to  disclose 

That  King  and  people's  courage  failed  them  ; 
Terror  seized  them  at  the  blows 

And  at  the  Prince  when  they  beheld  him ; 
None  of  them  remained  together 

Betwixt  Stirling  and  Dunedin  ; 
There's  many  a  town  where  some  run  thither 

At  nightfall  weary  beds  were  laid  in. 

Bold  were  we  and  full  of  ardour, 

Going  up  towards  the  hill  slope. 
But  e'er  we  got  right  in  order 

On  us  came  the  rebels  fell  swoop ! 
Not  long  did  we  hold  the  field. 

When  we  asunder  separated ; 
Then  it  was  that  evil  usage 

All  the  red-coats  there  awaited, 
439 


ORAN  EILE  DO'N  BHLAR 

Rinn  e  cuideachadh  d'ar  naimhdibh 

Gu'n  robh  dith  comanndaidh  oirnne ; 

Cha  d'  fhuair  sinn  ordugh  gu  lamhach,  35 

'N  am  do  chach  bhi  tighinn  'nar  comhdhail, 

'S  ann  a  theich  sinn  ann  ar  deannaibh, 

'S  cha  n-fhanamaid  ri  bhi  comhla, 

Cha  n-fhacas  roimhe  a  leithid 

O'n  thugadh  la  Inbhear-Lochaidh.  40 

Bha  mis'  is  Calum  Mac  Pharuig, 

Siubhal  cathair  agus  mointich, 

'S  mur  a  teichearaaid  'san  am  ud 

'S  cinnteach  gu'm  biodh  calldachd  oirnne  ; 

Ghabh  na  bh  aji:ainn  de  luchd-beurla  45 

An  ratreuta  roimh  Chlann  Domhnuill, 

Sud  a  ghiorraicheadh  an  saoghal, 

Dhol  ri  aodann  nam  fear  m6ra ! 

B'  e  sud  a  ghiorraicheadh  an  saoghal 

Dhol  a  chaonnag  ris  a'  ph6r  ud  50 

Thain'  a  chomhsachadh  na  rioghachd 

As  leth  an  Righ  is  na  corach ; 

'S  iomadh  laoch  gun  athadh-laimhe 

Eadar  Ceann-taile  's  Srath  Locha 

A  chuireadh  an  guaillean  r'a  cheile,  55 

'S  bu  mhor  am  feum  anns  a'  chomhraig. 

Bu  mh6r  am  feum  anns  a'  chomhraig 

Na  fir  mhora  bha  neo  -sgathach  ; 

Eadar  Chamshronaich  's  Chlann  D6mhnuill, 

'S  na  bha  chomhlain  ann  am  pairt  riu.  60 

'S  na'm  faigheadh  iad  cothrom  na  Feinne 

Eadar  iad  fein  is  an  narahaid, 

Dh'  aindeoin  na  bh'  anns  an  Roinn  Eorpa 

Chuireadh  iad  Righ  De6rs'  as  ^ite. 

Chuireadh  iad  Righ  Deors  as  aite,  65 

Na  bha  Ghaidheil  ann  an  Alba 
Na'm  biodh  iad  uile  mar  bha  iad, 
A'  bhliadhna  thainig  an  armailt ; 
Na'm  biodh  iad  uile  ri  cheile, 

Gu'm  b'  iad  fein  na  treun  fhir  chalma,  70 

D'am  bu  diithchas  a  bhi  crodha 
Bha  ch6mhnuidh  am  measg  nan  Garbh-chrioch. 
440 


ANOTHER  SONG  TO  THE  BATTLE 

It  gave  help  unto  our  foes 

That  want  of  discipline  unbraced  us  ; 
Order  none  we  got  to  fire. 

What  time  the  others  came  and  faced  us  ; 
Away  with  all  our  might  we  tore. 

To  come  to  grips  we  could  not  bide  it. 
The  like  was  never  seen  before 

Since  Inverlochy  was  decided. 

I  and  Calum  Paterson  were 

Moss  haggs  tramping  through  and  through  in, 
That  time  had  we  not  fled  yonder. 

Certain  we  had  met  our  ruin  ; 
All  we  had  with  us  of  English 

'Fore  Clan  Donald  were  retreating, 
Yon's  what  would  their  days  diminish. 

To  advance,  the  great  men  meeting. 

That  is  what  their  life  would  shorten 

Yon  race  to  stand  against  and  fight  them. 
Who  contending  for  the  Kingdom 

For  the  King  and  for  the  right,  came  ; 
Standing  to  arras  there's  many  a  soldier 

'Twixt  Strathlochy  and  Kintail,  who 
Would  put  shoulder  unto  shoulder. 

Much  in  conflict  their  avail  too. 

High  their  prowess  in  the  conflict. 

Great  men  who  of  dauntless  heart  were, 
Camerons  both  and  Macdonalds, 

And  the  brave  that  on  their  part  were. 
Had  they  got  the  Feen's  fair-play 

Between  them  and  their  opposition. 
In  spite  of  all  in  Europe,  they 

Had  put  King  George  from  his  position. 

They  would  have  displaced  King  George  there. 

All  the  Gael  that  were  in  Scotland, 
If  they  all  had  been  as  they  were 

That  year  when  the  army  sought  land ; 
If  they  had  been  all  together, 

They  had  been  the  brave  and  tough  hounds. 
To  be  valorous  was  their  nature. 

And  their  dwelling  mid  the  Roughbounds. 
441 


ORAN  EILE  DO'N  BHLAE 

An  la  sin  a  thug  iad  Ciiil-lodair, 

Cha  robh  fortan  ud  ach  searbh  dhuinn, 

Choisinn  Diuc  Uilleam  'san  droch-uair !  76 

'S  mor  an  rosad  e  do  dh'  Alba  ; 

Chain  na  cinn-feadhna  am  fearann, 

'S  an  tuath-cheathairn  an  cuid  armachd, 

Cha  bhi  oirnn  ach  ad  is  casag 

An  aite  nan  deiseachan  ball-bhreac.  80 

Cha  bhi  oirnn  ach  ad  is  casag, 

An  aite  nam  breacannan  ura ; 

Stocainean  is  briogsa  glasa, 

'S  iad  air  glasadh  mu  na  gluinean ; 

'N  uair  chaill  sinn  ar  n-airm  's  ar  n-aodach,  86 

Cia  mar  dh'  fhaodas  sinn  bhi  sunntach  ? 

Le'r  casagan  leobhar  liath-ghlas, 

Nach  robh  roimhe  riamh  'nar  diithaich. 

Cha  robh  roimhe  riamh  'nar  duthaich, 

Ach  aodaichean  ura  riomhach  ;  90 

'S  chaoidh  cha  b'  eiginn  am  muthadh 

Gus  'n  do  chaill  sinn  cliu  na  rioghachd, 

Chaill  sinn  ris  ar  cuid  de'n  t-saoghal, 

Chaill  sinn  ar  daoine  's  ar  ni  ris, 

Chaill  sinn  ar  n-aighear  's  ar  n-eibhneas,  96 

'S  goirt  an  sgeul  duinn  bhi  'ga  innseadh. 

'S  goirt  an  sgeul  a  bhi  'ga  innseadh, 

Na  chaidh  dhith  oirnn  de  na  daoine, 

Na  thuit  dhiubh  latha  Chuil-lodair, 

'S  a  fhuair  an  dochann  anns  a'  chaonnaig  ;  100 

Thainig  an  trup  orr'  o'n  culaibh, 

Triuir  mu'n  aon  duin'  air  an  aodann  ; 

'S  na'm  faigheadh  iad  cothrom  ciiise, 

Rinn  iad  diubhail  mu'n  do  sgaoil  iad. 

Cha  robh  meas  air  Clannna  Ghaidheil  105 

O'n  dh'  fhalbh  Tearlach  uainn  air  fogradh 
Dh'  fhag  e  sinn  mar  uain  gun  mhathair. 
Gun  aobhar  ghaire,  gun  solas  : 
Sinn  ag  geilleadh  do  Shasunn 

'S  ag  eirigh  am  feachd  Righ  Deorsa  110 

Cuid  d'  ar  n-iarrtas  is  d'ar  n-athchuing 
E  dhol  dathaigh  do  Hanobher  ! 
442 


ANOTHER  SONG  TO  THE  BATTLE 

That  day  when  they  fought  Culloden, 

To  us  luck  was  nought  but  bitter, 
In  ill-hour  prevailed  Duke  William ! 

Scotland  felt  disaster  utter ; 
The  chiefs  they  have  lost  their  land, 

The  tenant  troops  with  armour  parting. 
We'll  nothing  wear  but  hat  and  cassock 

In  the  place  of  suits  of  tartan. 

Nought  we'll  wear  but  hat  and  coat 

In  place  of  the  fresh  tartans  these  are ; 
The  long  stockings  and  grey  breeches. 

Which  tight-buckled  round  the  knees  are ; 
When  we  lost  our  arms  and  clothing. 

How  could  we  be  joyous  gentry 
With  our  long  and  light  grey  cassocks 

Ne'er  before  seen  in  our  country  ? 

In  our  country  ne'er  before  were 

But  fresh  new  clothes  famed  in  story  ; 
Never  was  there  need  to  change  them 

Till  we  lost  the  kingdom's  glory, 
With  it  lost  our  all  in  the  world. 

Lost  our  men  and  means  as  well. 
Lost  our  cheeriness  and  gladness, 

Bitter's  the  tale  for  us  to  tell. 

Oh  !  bitter  is  the  tale  to  tell. 

The  numbers  lost  us  of  our  men. 
Of  all  that  at  Culloden  fell. 

And  dreed  their  weird  on  battle  plain ; 
Behind  them  did  the  horse  advance. 

And  three  to  one  in  front  them  shattered ; 
And  had  they  got  but  a  fair  chance. 

They  had  wrought  havoc  ere  they  scattered. 

For  Highland  clans  respect  has  withered, 

Charlie  to  exile  from  us  gone 
Has  us  forsook  like  lambs  unmothered. 

With  cause  for  mirth  or  comfort  none  : 
We  yielding  to  the  English  nation 

And  rising  in  King  George's  pay. 
Part  of  our  prayer  and  supplication 

That  home  to  Hanover  he'd  gae. 
443 


ORAN  EILE  DO'N  BHLAR 

Bidh  Sinn  fathast  ann  an  dochas 

Gu'n  tig  Tearlach  bg  do'n  rioghachd 

'S  na'n  tigeadh  e  oirnn  a  chlisge,  115 

Dh'eireadh  ar  misneach  's  ar  n-inntinn  : 

Dh'eireadh  leat  a  h-uile  duine  ; 

'S  bhiodhmaid  uile  dhuit  cho  dileas ; 

An  fhaobhar  blair  no'n  lathair  cumaisg, 

Cha  bhiodh  cunnart  oirnn  gu'n  diobradh.  120 

Chaoidh,  cha  diobramaid  gu  brkth  thu, 

'S  e  'n  achanaich  a  b'  fhearr  leinn  fhaotainn 

Gu  n  tigeadh  iad  oirnn  na  Frangaich, 

'S  Tearlach  bhi  air  ceann  nan  daoine. 

Dh'eireadh  Camshronaich  o  Lochaidh,  125 

Domhnullaich  is  Clann-an-t-Saoir  leat ; 

'S  cha  robh  an  leithid  anns  na  criochan 

O'n  a  chriochnaich  Clannna  Baoisge. 

Gu'n  eireadh  leat  Clann-an-Aba, 

Laidir,  neartmhor,  feachdail,  rioghail,  130 

Gu  targaideach,  armailteach,  tartrach, 

Luchd  nam  bratach  's  nan  cuilbheir ; 

Ri  am  rusgadh  nan  lann  glasa, 

Nam  faobhar  sgaiteach,  's  nam  picean  ; 

Builleach,  guineach,  beumach,  buidhneach  135 

'S  bu  chliuiteach  an  am  dol  sios  iad. 

Griogairich  gun  fh^illinn  cruadail, 

Bha  iad  riamh,  gu  h-uasal,  rioghail, 

An  am  cogaidh,  troid,  no  tuasaid, 

C'ait  an  cualas  bonn  d'ara  mi-chliu  ?  140 

Dol  an  aghaidh  teine  's  luaidhe, 

An  am  na  ruaig  cha  b'  iad  a  striochdadh, 

'S  fhad  's  a  leanas  sibh  r'ar  dualchas, 

Cha  tult  sibh  le  fuath  luchd  mi-ruin. 

Eiridh  gach  fine  bho  thuath  leat,  145 

Eadar  uaislean  agus  islean  ; 

Le  toil  an  cridhe  's  an  durachd 

O'n  a  chuir  thu  t'  iiidh  'san  fhirinn  ; 

Bidh  sinn  uile  'san  aon  run  duit, 

O'n  is  ionann  ciiis  mu  'm  bi  sinn,  150 

Ann  at  aobhar,  Thearlaich  Stiubhairt, 

O'n  's  e  do  chrimadh  bheir  sith  dhuinn. 

444 


ANOTHER  SONG  TO  THE  BATTLE 

Still  we'll  bide  in  expectation 

That  Charlie  will  the  realm  inherit. 
And  forthwith  should  he  come  to  us 

Mount  would  our  courage  and  our  spirit : 
Rise  with  you  would  every  mortal ; 

We  true  to  you  were  all  concerting  ; 
In  edge  of  strife  or  battle's  portal 

Were  never  risk  of  our  deserting. 

We  desert  you  ?    Never,  never ! 

The  prayer  that  we'd  get  answered  liefest 
Is  that  the  French  to  us  came  over, 

Charlie  at  their  head  the  chiefest. 
Rise  would  Camerons  of  Lochy, 

Macdonalds,  Maclntyres  banded ; 
Not  their  like  within  the  borders. 

Since  Clan  Baoisge  passed  and  ended. 

Strong  and  vigorous,  royal,  numerous, 

Clan  MacNab  would  rise  with  you  too, 
Targed,  and  trained  to  arms,  and  numerous, 

Folk  of  the  banners  and  the  guns  blue ; 
At  the  time  o'  the  bright  blades  baring 

The  sharp  edges,  the  pikes  rounded. 
With  conquering  blows  and  strokes  wound-tearing 

Famous  'twas  when  they  fell  wounded. 

MacGregors  with  unfailing  might, 

They  noble  were  and  royal  ever. 
In  time  of  quarrel,  war,  or  fight. 

Cause  for  their  dispraise  heard  was  never. 
Going  in  face  of  fire  and  lead. 

Not  they  would  yield  at  rout's  fell  clangour. 
And  while  ye  your  nature  follow 

You  will  withstand  folk's  spiteful  anger. 

With  you  will  rise  each  northern  nation. 

Alike  the  high-born  and  the  lowly. 
With  heart's  wish  and  determination 

For  you  on  truth  your  hope  placed  solely ; 
We'll  all  be  for  you  with  one  aim. 

We  are  for  the  same  consummation, 
In  your  just  cause,  O  Charlie  Stewart, 

Peace  brought  us  by  your  coronation. 
445 


APPENDIX  II 

NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

Five  editions  of  Duncan  Maclntyre's  poems  have  been 
issued.  The  first,  hereinafter  called  A,  entitled,  as  were  BC, 
Grain  Ghdidhealach  le  Donnchadh  Macantsaoir,  was  printed  for 
the  author  by  A,  MacDonaid,  Edinburgh,  1768,  and  contains 
twenty-six  pieces. 

The  second,  B,  was  printed  for  the  author,  Edinburgh, 
1790,  dedicated  to  John  Campbell,  Earl  of  Breadalbane  and 
Holland,  and  is  prefaced  by  one  page  of  biography.  This 
edition  contains  forty-seven  pieces,  including  all  in  A 
except  the  Song  to  the  Breeches,  which  had  involved  the  author 
in  trouble,  and  the  Song  to  a  Tailor  Friend,  concluding  with 
a  list  of  1483  names  of  persons  ordering  1594  copies. 

The  third,  C,  was  printed  for  the  author  by  Thomas 
Oliver,  Edinburgh,  1804,  with  two  pages  of  biography,  a 
dedication  to  the  same  patron,  and  fifty-eight  pieces,  the  Song 
to  the  Breeches  being  again  included.  The  list  of  subscribers' 
names  numbers  683,  accounting  for  733  copies,  after  which 
follow  the  verses  to  the  poet  by  John  Maclntyre  in  Oban. 

The  fourth,  D,  entitled  Gaelic  Poems  and  Songs  by 
Duncan  Ban  Macintyre,  was  printed  in  Edinburgh  in  1834 
by  Bell  &  Bain,  and  published  by  Oliver  &  Boyd.  Here  the 
dedication  and  the  subscription  list  were  omitted,  but  the 
Song  to  John  Wilkes,  and  the  eulogy  by  John  Maclntyre 
above  mentioned  were  inserted.  Immediately  following  was 
the  word  crioch  (meaning  finis'),  but  on  the  next  page  the 
Elegy  on  the  Dog  that  went  through  the  Ice  with  a  Hare  in  his 
Month  was  added,  apparently  as  an  afterthought. 

The  fifth,  E,  entitled  Orain  agus  Ddna  Gdidhealach  le 
Donnchadh  Ban,  Mac-an-t-Saoir,  Songs  and  Poems  in  Gaelic  by 

446 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

Duncan  Ban  Macintyre,  of  which  there  have  been  eight  re- 
issues, was  published  in  Edinburgh  in  1848  by  MacLachlan 
&  Stewart,  and  latterly  by  Mr  John  Grant.  Containing  six 
pages  of  biography,  and  sixty-three  pieces,  it  ends  with 
John  Maclntyre's  appreciation  of  the  poet.  Subjoined  are 
Robert  Buchanan's  translations.  The  Glen  of  the  Mist  and  The 
Last  Adieu  to  the  Hills.  After  the  first  piece,  Another  Song 
to  the  Battle  of  Falkirk  was  inserted,  and,  as  occasion  seemed 
to  require,  some  useful  footnotes  were  added.  The  three 
pieces  in  Appendix  I  are  thus  not  strongly  supported  in 
these  editions. 

Of  the  five  editions.  A,  edited  by  Dr  Stewart  of  Luss  in 
his  youth,  is  the  most  careful  and  scholarly.  B  comes  next 
in  order  of  merit.  Both  use  only  the  acute  accent  on  long 
syllables.  Several  changes  are  made  in  B,  which  are  not  always 
improvements  on  the  readings  in  A.  English  words  are 
replaced  in  B  by  words  of  native  origin  which  are  frequently 
less  suitable.  C  introduces  the  grave  accent,  and  marks  a 
far  greater  number  of  long  syllables  than  A  and  B.  D,  on 
and  after  p.  54,  begins  to  use  horizontal  marks  on  long 
syllables,  chiefly  a  and  sometimes  6,  but  not  with  complete 
uniformity.     It  is  the  only  edition  to  use  those  marks. 

It  has  been  judged  better  to  confine  attention  for  the 
most  part  to  these  editions,  as  they  must  in  the  nature  of  the 
case  have  formed  the  standard  in  their  successive  periods. 
But  the  editor  has  also  examined  the  McLachlan  MS. 
(McL.),  in  Glasgow  University.  Unfortunately  a  large 
number  of  pieces  in  this  MS.,  if  the  pagination  in  red  ink  be 
relied  on,  are  missing.  Among  those  in  the  existing 
collection  are  copies — almost  all  slovenly  and  incorrect — of 
John  Campbell  of  the  Bank,  No.  41  ;  Coire  Cheathaich,  No. 
32 ;  Beinn  Dourainn,  No.  184 ;  John  Wilkes,  No.  67 ; 
Lament  for  the  Earl  of  Bread albane,  No.  121;  together  with 
Da  Ghluas  a  Bhuic  Le  Donnchadh  Ban  Mc  an  t  Saoir,  No.  162. 
This  title,  so  far  as  appears,  is  the  only  external  claim  the 

447 


APPENDIX  II 

piece  has  in  its  favour ;  and  that  claim  is  not  supported  by 
its  intrinsic  merits.  It  lacks  the  point,  clearness,  and  poetic 
quality  of  the  poet's  admitted  work,  and  therefore  it  has  not 
been  included  in  this  edition. 

The  MacNicol  collection  the  editor  has  not  had  access 
to,  but  he  is  enabled  to  add  the  notes  subscribed  McN. 
from  some  extracts  kindly  sent  him  by  Rev.  Prof.  George 
Henderson,  Ph.D.,  its  present  custodian,  who  has  also 
supplied  the  reference  to  transcripts  of  three  of  Maclntyre's 
poems  in  the  British  Museum — The  Song  to  the  Summer, 
Egerton,  154,  fol.  33b;  Love  Song;  and  Song  to  Lord 
Glenorchy,  fol.  35b.  The  first  of  these  was  copied  by  Edward 
O'Reilly,  the  Lexicographer,  from  A,  with  unimportant 
variations ;  McN.,  which  also  follows  A,  gives  several  verses 
not  found  in  any  printed  edition,  but  adds  little  to  the 
interest  of  the  poem.  The  earliest  editions  show  the  break- 
ing up  of  the  declensions.  The  ace.  of  fem.  a  stems  is  like 
the  nom.,  and  the  final  vowel  of  the  gen.  often  disappears 
even  in  monosyllables,  beul  do  chleibh  118,  93;  air  chid 
sgeith  124,  29.  But  the  dat.  pi.  in  -ibh  is  uniformly, 
preserved,  save  when  the  rhyme  rules  otherwise.  In  B  the 
dat.  sing,  in  o  stems  is  met  with,  coinniumh  176,  259; 
140,  154.  Aogasg  (ecosc)  occurs  in  B  356,  53 ;  the  final  vowel 
of  buidhe  is  seldom  written,  94,  146;  fuidh=fo;  roimh  = 
iroimh  ;  cho  —  cha  ;  ata  =  ta  ;  chuaidh  =  chaidh  occur  passim. 
Inflection  tends  to  fail  after  verbal  nouns,  especially  if  the 
governed  word  is  followed  by  a  rel.  or  other  clause,  422,  40 ; 
but  on  the  other  hand  the  governing  word  is  itself  inflected 
in  B,  cionta  ciad  pheacaidh  Adh'mh  362,  26.  Examples 
occur  of  the  Middle  Irish  present  pass.,  Cha  chluinnthear 
326,  40 ;  of  the  b.  future,  brisfior  336,  23 ;  and  many 
instances  of  the  following :  past  pass.  3rd  sing.  rel.  2,  20 ; 
46,  47  ;  22,  26  ;  24,  61 ;  32,  51 ;  38,  114,  120,  137 ;  132,  27  : 
past  pass.  3rd  sing.  subj.  58,  87  ;  82,  63 ;  136,  78. 

A,  and  to   a   less  extent    B,  generally  have  is   for    the 
448 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

conjunction  and  as  for  the  relative  of  the  copula  ;  but  the 
use  is  in  each  case  affected  by  the  vicinity  of  a  small  vowel, 
e.g.,  is  fhaide  18,  40  ;  cha  n-i  is  tdire  44,  35;  hun  is  isle  44,  47. 
The  regular  use  is  most  frequent  after  the  conjunction  o'n, 
viar,  etc.,  as  in  Old  Irish.     After  A  B  later  editions  prefer  is. 

Gu,  de,  and  do  are  confused  to  such  an  extent  in  all  the 
editions  that  any  attempt  at  correction  must  be  attended 
with  considerable  uncertainty.  Nevertheless  something 
has  been  done  in  this  direction. 

The  confusion  between  do  and  de  has  for  the  most  part 
been  rectified.  The  subjoined  list,  though  incomplete,  may 
be  found  useful : — 

a  =  do  208,  22  ;  226,  54  ;  406,  105  ;  416.  9. 

a(omitted)  =  do  16,  5;  218,  27;  242,  19  ;  254,  29. 

a=de  8,  80,  95  ;  20,  3  ;  68,  33 ;  74,  145  ;  98,  22 ;  100,  39,  44  ;  104, 
92,  101;  106,  124;  114,  33;  132,  25;  138,  126,  130;  146, 
73  ;  166,  86  ;  228,  75  ;  284,  69  ;  310,  32  ;  410,  61 ;  430,  34. 

a=dh'  228,  63. 

ad  =  do  d'  134,  51  ;  200,  64 ;  212,  26. 

ad  =  de  d'  136,  91 ;  210,  6  ;  214,  66 ;  252,  13,  20. 

an  =  do'n  44,  37;  114,  27;  238,  30;  260,  106. 

'n  =  do'n  230,  85. 

an  =  de'n74,  142;  144,  41. 

'n  =  de'n  158,  50;  310,  31. 

'sa  =  isde202,  78. 

ad, 't  =  agdoll4,  39;  210,  4. 

a'  m'=:ag  mo  204,  114. 

a  (omitted)  =  de  102,  55  ;  178,  271  ;  224,  26  ;  428,  18  ;  434,  135. 

The  derivation  of  coltach  may  be  inferred  from  B  155, 
50,  where  the  reading  is  colsach,  which  by  metathesis  results 
from  coslach : 

aineas  B  260,  103,  from  aignes  [cf.  /.  T.  S,  VI.  sub  voce] 
meaning  prayer,  passion  : 

thur,  etc.,  VII.  123,  from  Mid.  Ir.  atar,  dar,  indar;  O.  Ir. 
ata,  da,  inda.     I.  T.  S.  VI.  208  : 

Sasunn,  Sasgunn,  B  20,  13,  which  comes  by  metathesis 
from  Sagsunn,  LXI.  1,  83,  McL.,  Saxon : 

449  2  F 


APPENDIX  II 

morair,  338,  52.  Morbhir  (McN.)  points  to  mormhaeTf 
mormaer. 

In  the  following  collation  of  the  five  editions,  all  the  lead- 
ing changes  are  noted,  except  palpable  blunders  and  mere 
variety  of  spelling.  There  are  sixty-three  poems  in  all,  and 
these  are  indicated  by  Roman  numerals.  The  Arabic  figures 
refer  to  the  lines  in  the  various  poems. 

I.,  p.  2. 

Title  as  in  A :  Oran  do  bhlar  na  h  Eaglais  brice,  BCD;  Blar  na  h- 
eaglaise  brice,  E. 
1    mach-thir,  A  ;  mach  thir,  B  ;  machair,  C  D  E. 

4  linn,  A ;  leoinn,  B  ;  leinn,  C  D  E. 

6    diaigh,  A  B ;  deigh,  C  D  E.     12  g'a  shireadh,  A  B  ;  g'a  sireadh, 
C  D  E.    20  bhi'dhte,  A  B ;  bhi'te,  C  D ;  bhite,  E. 
21    caoiribh,  A  B  C  D  (c/.  'coa  cairib,  S.  Rann,  3754);  caoirich,  E. 
28     Bha  Collin  gun  clieann  air  cuid  dhibh,  B ;  Bha  CoUuin  gun  cheann 
air  cuid  diubh,  C  D  E.     For  29,  30  are  37,  38  in  B  C  D 
E,  which  read  for  31,  32— 

Dh  fhag  iad  creuchdan  air  an  reubadh, 
'S  cha  leighiseadh  leigh  an  cuislean. 
and  for  37-40— 

'N  uair  a  dh'  aom  sinn  bharr  an  t-sleibh. 
Is  moran  feura  aguin  air  furtachd, 
Na  bha  beo  bha  cuid  dhiubh  leoint', 
'S  bha  sinn  bronach  mun  a  thuit  ann. 

42  dh'  aom,  A ;  ghluais,  B  C  D  E. 

49  dhathigh,  A  B  ;  dhachaidh,  C  D ;  dhachaigh,  E. 

61  chruachansa,  A  B  ;  chruachainse,  C  D  E. 

72  choslach,  A  B  C  D  ;  choltach,  E. 

73  ball  teirraeasg,  A  B  C  D  ;  ball-teirmeisg,  E. 

74  dleusnach,  A  B  ;  dleasdnach,  C  D  ;  dleasnach  E. 
76  iontraich,  A  B  ;  ioutraich,  C  D ;  ionndrainn,  E. 

78    an  t  suigh,  A  B  ;  an  t-suigh,  C  D ;  an  t-siithaidh,  E. 
90    fhaisin,  A  ;  asuig,  BCD;  asuinn,  E. 
103,  4  A'  mheud  sa  dhfag  sinn  an  san  araich. 

La  blar  na  h  Eaglais  brice,  B  C  D  E. 

II.,  p.  10. 

5  Hawley,  A  B  C  D ;  Hallaidh,  E. 

6  Cothun,  A  C  D  E  ;  Cochun,  B. 

450 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

16  na  stoip,  A  ;  mo  stop,  B ;  mo  stop,  C  D  E. 

23  phaigh,  A  B  ;  phaigh,  C;  phaigheadh,  D  E,  cf.  61 :  iii.,  10. 

25  dathigh,  A  B ;  dachaidh,  C  D ;  dhachaigh,  E. 

26  Bhar  faithch',  A ;  Thar  faithch',  BCD;  Thar  faich',  E. 
79    dith,  A  B  C  D ;  d'i,  E. 

III.,  p.  16. 

2    theaga'  'n,  A ;  theag'  gu'n,  B  C  D  E.     4  rithist,  ABE;  rithisd, 

CD.     8  charaibh,  A  B  C  D ;  charamh,  E. 
9    co'  mhaith,  A  B  C  D ;  cho  mhath,  E. 
13    soithidh,  A ;  soitheamh,  B,  etc. 

17  Nic-coshura,  A  B ;  Nic-coshum,  C  D ;  Nic-C6iseam,  E. 
19    thao',  A  B  ;  thaodh',  C  D ;  thaobh',  E. 

29  bhios,  A  B  ;  bhi's,  C  D  E. 

30  nian  Deorsa,  A  B ;  nighean  Dheorsa,  C  D ;  nighean  Dheorsa,  E. 
32    paidh,  A  B  ;  paidh,  C  D  ;  paidhidh,  E. 

34  sgeul  am  mearachd,  ABC;  sgeula  mearachd,  D  E. 

35  cd-maith,  A  B ;  co  maith,  C  D ;  cho  math,  E. 
36,  7    Ge,  A  B  C  D ;  Ged'  ged,  E. 

38    nach  fhiach,  A  B  ;  nach  b'  fhiach,  C  D  E. 

40    Gur  th'  e,  A  B  ;  Gur  e,  C  D  E  ;  is  fhaide,  A  B  ;  is  faide,  C  D  E. 
42     'S  foghnuidh,  A  ;  Foghnuidh,  B  ;  Foghnuidh,  C  D  ;  Foghnaidh, 
E. 

IV.,  p.  20. 

1  as  ail,  A ;  as  ail,  B  ;  is  ail,  C  D ;  is  aill,  E. 

4  Na  do  phuinse,  A  ;  No  do  phuinse,  B  ;  No  do  phuinnse,  C  D  E. 

6  Co  Ian,  A  B ;  Co  Ian,  CD;  Cho  Ian,  E. 

13  Sasgun,  A  ;  Sasgunn,  BCD;  Sasunn,  E. 

24  'S  na  h  nil',  A  B  C  D  E.     33  Ann  sa  h  uile,  A  B ;   Anns  na 

h-uile,  C  D  E. 
35     'S  bha-sa,  A ;  'S  bha'as,  B  ;  'S  bha'ar,  C  D  E. 

46  bhrattailean,  A ;  bhraitailean,  B ;  bhrataillean,  C ;  bhataillean, 

D ;  hhatailleariy  E. 

47  cho  tairis.  A;  cho  dileas,  B  ;  cho  dileas,  C  D  E. 

48  leoghain,  A  B  C  D  ;  leoghain,  E. 
53    loinneis,  A  ;  loingis,  B  C  D  E. 

61    rachdadh,  A ;  reachta,  B  C ;  rachta,  D  ;  rachte,  E. 
71    rithisd,  A  B  ;  rithist,  C  D  E. 
77    dithisd,  A  B  ;  dithist,  C  D  E. 

451 


APPENDIX  II 

81  mar  as  aill,  A  B ;  mar  is  aill,  C  D  E. 

82  Sabhailt,  A  B  ;  'Sabhailt,  C  D  E. 
88    fhathasd,  ABODE. 

95    anil  diaigh,  A  ;  aim  deigh,  B  ;  an  deigh,  C  D  E. 
98    am  fad  as  beo,  A  B  ;  is  beo,  C  D  E. 

100  as  coir,  A  B  ;  is  coir,  C  D  E. 

103    luchd  ciuird,  A  ;  luchd  ceaird,  BCD;  luchd-ceaird,  E, 

110    faodain  sporta,  A  ;  faotain  sporsa,  B  ;  faotain  spiiirte,  C  ;  faoi^in 

spuirte,  D;  faotainn  sporsa,  E. 
127     'sdeigh  a    chreidimh,   A ;    steibh  a'  chreidimh,  B ;    steibh  na 

Creidimh,  C  ;  steidh  na  Creidimh,  D  E. 
130    D'  uinein,  A  B  C  D ;  T'  uinem,  E. 

v.,  p.  30. 

6    ceartas  as  firinn,  A ;  ceartas  's'am  firinn,  BCD;  ceartas  'sam 

firinn,  E. 
13    line  omitted,  C  D  E. 

19    ann  aii  Gallu',  A  ;  Gallaibh,  BCD;  Gallabh,  E. 
38    an  d'  theid,  A  B  ;  an  d'  theid,  C  D  ;  'san  teid,  E. 
64    clannar,  A  ;  clannach,  B  C  D  E. 

Order  of  lines  in  D  E,  65,  6,  9,  70,  67,  8,  71. 
70    soisle,  A  B  ;  soisle,  C  D  E. 
76    Beul  bi  bu  taine,  A  ;  Beul  bi  a  bu  taine,  B  ;  bi,  C  D  ;  Beul  bidhe 

bu  taine,  E  (following  the  error  in  H.S.D.,  112,  col.  1). 

84  caramh,  A ;  caradh,  B  D  ;  caradh,  C  E. 

85  g  am  bhuil,  A ;  d'  am  bhuil,  B  ;  d'  am  bheil,  C  D  E. 
88    Sasgon,  A  B  ;  Sasgan,  C  D ;  Sasunn,  E. 

101  aodhailt,  A  ;  fhaodhailt,  BCD;  fhaoghaid,  E. 

102  a  ghreadhan,  A  ;  a  ghreadhain,  B  C  D  ;  a  ghreadhainn,  E. 
105    gaothair,  A  B  C  D  E. 

185    na  foragain,  A ;  na  h'  oragain,  B  ;  na  h-oragain,  C ;  na  h-orgain, 
D ;  na  h-6rgain,  E. 

138  air  an  t  sorachan,  A  B ;  air  an  t-sorachan,  C  D  E. 

139  toraman,  A  B  C  D  E. 

140  foirraeil,  A  B  ;  soirmeil,  C  D  E. 

145    Do  mhaitheamh,  A  B  C  D  ;  Do  mhaithean,  E. 

VI.,  p.  42. 

2    a's  lirar,  A  B ;  is  iirar,  C  D  E. 

4    bu  chiibraidh,  A  B ;  bu  chubhraidh,  C  D  E.     6  pliiireanach, 
A  B  :  pliiireanach,  C  D  ;  pliiranach,  E. 

452 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

9  falluing,  A  B  C  D ;  falluinn,  E. 

15  bhuanadh,  A  B  C  D ;  bhuana,  E. 

23  aithir,  A  B  C  D  E.    saoghalta,  A  ;  saoghalt,  B  ;  saoghalt',  C  D  E. 

37  a'n  bha-thigh,  A  B  ;  a'n  bh^-thigh,  CD:  'na  bha-thigh,  E. 

42  feireagan,  A  B  C  D  ;  faoireagan,  E  ;  's  cruinn,  A  B  ;  is  cruinn, 
CDE. 

53  sroineag,  A  B  ;  sroineag,  C  D ;  sronag,  E. 

54  nednain,  A  B  ;  neonain,  C  D  ;  neoineiii,  E. 
61  gim  aon  teas,  A  B  C  D  ;  gun  aon-teas,  E. 

67    Le  loinneis,  A ;   Le  luinneis,  B  C  D  E.     73  aithir,  A  B  C  D ; 

aighear,  E. 
86    didneadh.  A;  didnein,  B;  didneadh,  C  D;  dideann,  E. 
95    linaich,  A  B ;  unaich,  C  D  ;  iiinich,  E  :  H.S.D. 
99    uiseag,  A  B  C  D  E. 
101    A  chuag  's  smeorach  am  bdr  an  ogain,  A  B. 
A  chuag  's  smeorach,  am  bar  nan  ogain,  C. 
A  chuag,  'sa  smeorach,  am  bar  nan  ogain,  D. 
A  chuag,  'sa  smeorach,  am  barr  nan  ogan,  E. 
106    Do  na  h  uile  seorta,  A  B  ;  Do'n  h-uile  seorta,  C  D ;  Don  h-uile 

seorsa,  E. 
109    san  fheathai',  A  B  C  D ;  san  fheithe,  E. 

113  dusluing,  A  B  ;  diisluing,  C  (quoted  but  without  accent,  H.S.D.) 

D;  duslainn,  E. 

133  'na  dhosaibh,  A  B  C  D;   'na  dosa,  E. 

134  'Sna  phreasaibh,  A  B  C  D ;  'S  nam  preasa,  E. 

135  Na  gallain,  A  B  C  D.     Nan  gallan,  E. 

na  faillain,  A ;  na  faillein,  BCD;  nam  faillean,  E. 
144     g  an,  A  B  C  D  ;  da'n,  E. 

VIL,  p.  52. 

1  caramh,  A ;  caradh,  B  ;  caradh,  CDE. 

3  am  araich,  A  ;  am  arach,  B  ;  am  ^rach,  C  D  ;  gam  krach,  E. 

■    4  'S  an  bhraidhe,  A  B  ;  'S  a  bhraidhe,  CD;  'S  a  bhraighe,  E. 

10  Spurt,  A  B ;  Spuirt,  CDE;  78  spurt,  A  B  ;  spuirt,  CDE. 

37  chleachdain  riamh  dha,  A  B ;  dhuit,  C  D ;  chleachdadh  riamh 

dhuit,  E. 

46  chidsin  tighe  'n  iarladh,  A  ;  iarla,  BCD;  tigh  an  iarla,  E. 

74  na,  A  B  C  D ;  no,  E. 

86  Na  dosaibh,  A  B  C  D  ;  Nan  dosaibh,  E. 

114  na  chroite,  A  B  C  D ;  na  chroitean,  E. 

123     'S  thur  leam,  A  B ;  'S  ar  leam,  C  D ;  'S  air  leam,  E. 

453 


APPENDIX  n 

137    sna  baddan  bldtha,  A  B ;    s'na    baddain    blktha,  C  D ;   s'na 

badain  bhlatha,  E. 
139    na  lair'ge,  A  B ;  na  lair'ge,  C ;  na  lair'ge,  D  ;  na  lairig\  E. 


VIII.,  p.  62. 

5    mhi-chion,  A ;  mighean,  B  C  D  E.     7  'n  spraidh,  A  B  C ;  'na 

spraidh,  D  ;  'na  spraidhe,  E. 
13     'Nuair  a  shears  rai  i,  A  ;  'Nuair  a  dh'erich  mi,  B  ;  dh'  erich,  C ; 

dh'  eirich,  D  E. 
16    Cuiphain,  A  ;  Cuiphein,  B ;  Cuifein,  C  D  ;  Cuifean,  E. 
24    Leam  as  cruaidh,  A  B  ;  is,  C  D  E. 
38    an  t  ath  la',  A  B  ;  an  t-ath  la',  C  D ;  an  ath  la',  E. 
40    mar  as  maith,  A  B  ;  is,  C  D  E. 
43    sileadh  fola,  A  B  C  D  ;  fala,  E. 


IX.,  p.  66. 

Title :  Oran  do  loin  Caimbeul  a'  bhanc,  ABC;  Oran  do  Iain,  etc., 

D ;  Iain  Caimbeul  a'  bhanca,  E. 
18     Bu  stann-ardach,  A ;   stanaradh   McL.  ;   Is  farraraach,   B ;    Is 

farramaich,  C  D ;  Is  faruraaich,  E. 
42    a  snap,  A  B  C  D  :  a  shnap,  E  ;  sic  sraid,  43. 
70    A  cuireadh  a  suas,  A  B  C  D  ;  A  chuireadh  tu  suas,  E. 
76    teistneas,  A  B  C  D  ;  teisteas,  E. 
83    air    an    dreasadh    a    suas,    A    B ;    dreasigid    McL. ;    air    an 

deasachadh  suas,  C  D  E. 

89  mar  a  mhiann,  A ;  mar  do  mhiann,  B  C  D  E. 

90  sniamh,  ABE;  sniomh,  C  D. 

98  le  suairc,  A  B  C  D  ;  ro  shuairc,  E. 

113  smaointine,  A  B  ;  smaointeana,  C  D ;  smaointeannan,  E. 

141  Coimhleirein,  A  B  C  D ;  coillearan,  E. 

142  Dreois  ghailtheach  a'n  cheir,  A  B  ;  cheir,  C ;  Dreai  s  ghailtheach 

a'n  cheir,  D  ;  Dreos  dhealrach  an  ceir,  E  ;  Coilaran  praise  ar 

lasa  le  ceir,  McL. 
145    a  luchd  ealaidh,  A  B  C  D ;  a  luchd-ealaidh,  E. 
149     shiubhlara,  A  ;  shiulacha,  B  ;  shiulacha,  C  D  ;  shiubhlacha,  E. 
172    Air  na  fuar  Ghalliiich,  A  B  ;  Ghalluich,  C  ;  Ghallaich,  D  E. 

182  ann  a'd,  A  B  ;  ann  ad',  C  D  E. 

183  h  aigne,  A  B  ;  d'  aigne,  C  D ;  t'  aignidh,  E. 
186    a'd  phearsain,  A  B  ;  ad'  phearsa,  C  D  E. 

454 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 


X.,  p.  78. 

Title :  Gran  Ghlean-urchaidh,  A ;  Gran  Ghlin-urchaidh,   B ;    Gran 
Ghlinn-urchaidh,  ODE. 

5    dislean,  A  B  ;  dilsean,  C  D  E. 

9    Clachan-an-diseirt,  ABE;  Clachan-an-diseirt,  C  D. 
26    spurt,  A  B ;  spuirt,  C  D ;  spurt,  E. 
28    mu  a  sgur,  A  B  C  D ;  mu  sgur,  E. 
42    fiu,  A  ;  pris,  B  ;  pris,  C  D  E. 
48    A  ni,  A  B ;  Ni,  ODE. 
54    na  leoir,  A  B  ;  na  le6ir,  C  D ;  na's  le6ir,  E. 
57    thigteadh,  ABC;  thigeadh,  D  E. 
63    cha  'n  fhaicteadh,  A  ;  cha'  n  fhaicte,  B  E  ;  cha'n  fhaic'te,  C  D. 


XI.,  p.  82. 

3    bMthas,  A ;  bias,  B ;  bl^s,  ODE.     The  catalectic  syllable,  or 

caesura,  Th^id,  falls  in  this  line,  ABC,  but  begins  line  4 

in  D  E;  cf.  41,  51,  53,  58,  60,  117,  161,  193. 
10    gnathaicht',  A   B;  gnkthaichte,   C  D  E;    ef.   34. 
14    Trom-chuinlionach,  ABC;   Trom-chinlionach,  D  ;  Trom-chuil- 

leanach,  E. 
20     blathas,  A ;  bids,  B  ;  blath's,  C ;  blath's,  D  ;  bl^hs,  E. 
32    uainealach,  A  B  C  D ;  uain'-neulach,  E  (false  analogy  to  gorm- 

neulach,  122). 

37  catuineach,  A  ;  cdtuineach,  B ;  bldth-mhaiseach,  C  D  E. 

38  Gu  cra'och,  crasgach,  cruasachdach.  A;  Gu  craobhach,  etc.,  B; 

'Sna  craobhan  Idn  do  chruasachdan,  C  D  E. 
60    gurt,  A  B  C  D  ;  gart,  E. 
66    Gros,  A  B  C  D  ;  Gnos,  E. 

69  pris,  A  B  ;  phreas,  C  D  E. 

70  ioc,  A  B  C  D ;  iochd,  E. 

72  'gan  ainm,  A  B  C  D  ;  d'an  ainm,  E. 

77  sa'  phunnc,  A ;  sa'  phonnc,  BCD;  sa'  phong,  E. 

86  uapa-san,  A  E  ;  uatha-san,  BCD. 

90  chnocana,  ABC;  chnocanaibh,  D  ;  chnocaibh,  E. 

92  Le  ribheid  a'  dlu'-chur  seoil  orra,  A  B. 

Le  ribheid  dliith  chur  sebil  orra,  C ;  seol,  D. 
Le  ribheid  dlixith  chur  seol  orra,  E. 

93  ponnca,  A  B  C  D ;  poncan,  E. 

455 


APPENDIX  II 

98    uiseag,  A  B ;  riabhag,  C  D  E ;  'na  seuchdan — read  seocan,  crest 
feathers  ?    Not  the  crested  lark  which  is  uncommon. — Tour 
in  Sutherland^  p.  51  note, 
comhluadh,  A  B  ;  comladh,  C  D  E. 

100  a's  aird',  A  B  ;  is  aird,  C  D  E  ;  cf.  153,  157. 

101  choill  a  gu  leir,  A ;  choill  gu  leir,  B  ;  choill'  gu  leir,  C  D  E. 
113    am  beatha,  A  B  C  D  ;  am  beith,  E. 

119  pluireineach,  A  B  ;  pluireineach,  C  D  ;  pluranach,  E. 

125  cearmonta,  A  B  C  D ;  cearmontan,  E. 

133  gasach,  ABC;  garach,  D  E  (leg.  garrach  ?). 

159  righbin,  A  B  ;  ribhinn,  C  D  E. 

167  slios'ora,  A  B  ;  sHos'ra,  C  D  ;  sliosrach,  E. 

168  Mm,  sliogta,  A  B  ;  Cas,  bachlach,  C  D  E. 
172  sreud,  A  ;  trend,  B  C  D  E. 

177    mionntain,  A  B ;  mionntain,  C  D  E. 

camomhil,  A  B  ;  cam'mhil,  C  D ;  cara-bhil,  E, 
179    thalamhonta,  A  B  C  D  ;  cathair-thalmhanta,  E. 
181     Suthan  laire,  A  B  ;  Subhan  laire,  C  D  ;  Sughan-laire,  E. 
186     bruincneach,  A  ;  bhruinneach,  B  ;   bhriiin  ceach,  C  D  ;   bhriiin- 

ceach,  E. 
200    g'a  mhoideachadh,  A  B  ;  g'a  mhoideachadh,  C  D  E. 


xn.,  p.  98. 

Title  :  Oran  do  Chaiptean  Donnacha  Caimbeul,  ann  Geard  Dhuineidin, 
A ;    Oran    do  Chaiptean   Geard   Dhuineidin,    B  ;    Oran   do 
Chaiptein  Geard  Dhun-eidin,  C  D ;  Oran  do  Chaiptin  Geard 
Dhuneideann,  E. 
5    curaisdeach,  A ;  urramach,  B  C  D  E. 
44,  55    Dhiarmad,  A ;  Dhiarmaid,  B  C  D  E. 
48    iarlodh,  A ;  iarl'  u,  B  ;  inrl'  thu,  C  D  E. 
54    Auchloine,  A ;  Achaloinne,  B  C  D  E. 

59  broserla,  A  ;  mosgla,  BCD;  mosgladh,  E. 

60  'S  bu  mhor  fheum,  A  ;  Bu  mhor  t  fheum,  B  ;  Bu  mhor  t'  fheum, 

C  D ;  Bu  mhor  t'  fheum,  E. 
64    an  t  siochaint,  A  B  ;  an  t-siochadh,  C  D ;  an  t-siochaidh,  E. 

68  casaga,  A  B  C  D  ;  casagan,  E. 

69  A  liuthad  beannachdan  bocainn,  A ;  bhochdan,  B  C  D  E. 
75    roi'  d'  lionuibh,  A  B  ;  liontuibh,  C ;  liontaibh,  D  E. 

78    spuindeadh,  A  B;  spuinteadh,  C  D  ;  spiiinneadh,  E. 
88    Is  moch  a,  A  B  C  D  ;  Is  moich  a,  E. 

456 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

89  'eile,  A ;  '^ileadh,  BCD;  f^ileadh,  E. 

91  a  bhile  shi'd,  A  B ;  a  bhil  shid,  C  D ;  a'  bhil  shiod',  E. 

102  spairt,  A  B  ;  spairt,  C  D  E. 

112  sgriuiteadh,  A  ;  scriuta,  B ;  scriuta,  C  D  ;  sgriiibhte,  E. 

136  na  clia-sheanchuidh,  A  B  C  D ;  na  cliar-sheanachaidh,  E. 


XIII.,  p.  108. 

Omitted  in  BCD.     Title :   Gran  do  charaid  Taileir  air  son  cuairt 
siiiridh,  A ;  Gran  do  charaide  Tailear  air  son  cuairt  shuiridh, 
E. 
3    ag  ailis,  A  ;  ag  aithris,  E. 
7    ri  h  aire,  A  ;  ri  faire,  E. 
18    is  aitheant  damh  'm  eolas,  A ;  is  aithne  dhom  'm  e61as,  E. 

23  gu  brigheagach,  A  ;  gu  bhriagraich,  E. 

24  nigheagan,  A  E. 

33    na  fhaire,  A ;  na  faire,  E. 

41  ludragan  phaidseach,  A  ;  paidseach,  E. 

42  gun  adh,  A  ;  gun  stath,  E.     46  os  'n  aird,  A  ;  os  n-aird,  E. 


XIV.,  p.  112. 

Title :  Gran  do'n  Taileir,  an  eirig  oran  a  rinn  eisean  ann  an  adhbhar 
a  charaid.  A;  Aoir  an  Tailear,  etc.,  B;  Gran  an  Taileir. 
BCD. 

1  Neacain,  A  B  C  D  E. 

2  ad'  phearsuin,  A  B  ;  ad'  phearsa,  C  D  E. 

23  'S  craobh  thu  'n  ghrotlaich,    A ;    'S  tu   chraobh    ghrodlaich, 

B  C  D  E. 

24  fhineag,  A  B  ;  fhionag,  C  D  E. 

39    a'  d'  theumadh,  A  B  C  D  ;  ga  d'  theumadh,  E. 
44    is  fhiu,  A  B  C  D  E. 

47    caramh,  A  ;  caradh,  B  ;  caradh,  C  E  ;  caradh,  D. 
49     smiiraich,  A  ;  sraiirach,  B  ;  smiiraich,  C  D  E. 
53     Nan  sneo,  's  nam  mial  I'neach,  A.     Gmitted  by  B  C  D  E. 
65    omitted  by  A. 

65,  6     Bi'dh  'n  cromnDdhar  gun  fhios  duit, 
'Mach  air  toUaibh  do  bhriogais,  A. 

67  'Se,  A  ;  Fear,  B  C  D  E. 

68  Chaill  e,  A  ;  Chaill  do,  B  C  D  E. 

79    ag  rait,  A  B ;  ag  radh'te,  C ;  radh'te,  D  ;  ag  rkite,  E. 

457 


APPENDIX  n 

81  aros,  A  B  ;  aras,  C  E  ;  aras,  D. 

85  gu'n  sparr  thu,  A  B  ;  gu'n  sparr  thu,  C  D  E. 

95  gu  h  eididh,  A ;  gu  h  'eididh,  B  ;  gu  h-eididh,  C  D ;  gu  h-eididh,  E. 

97  a'  d'  phearsuin,  A  B  C  D  ;  phearsa,  E. 

108  sgoir-fhiaclan,  A  B  ;  sgoir-fhiaclan,  C  D;  sgor-fhiaclan,  E. 

120  Uchd  na  curra,  cean  circ'  ort,  gob  geoidh,  A  B. 
Uchd  na  curra,  ceann  circ  ort,  gob  geoidh,  C  D. 
Uchd  na  curr'  ort,  ceann  circ'  's  gob  geoidh,  E. 

144    Aig  olca  's  a,  A  B  ;  Aig  olcas  a,  C  D  ;  Aig  olcas  'sa,  E. 

US    chdramh,  A  B  ;  chkradh,  C  D  E. 


XV.,  p.  122. 

Title:    Cumha'  Ghileaspaig  Achaladoir,   ABC;    Ghileaspuig,   D; 
Curaha  Ghilleasbuig  Achaladair,  E. 

6  leith-paigh,  A  B ;  leth-paigh,  C  D ;  leth-paigheadh,  E. 

19  air  h  adhairt,  A  B ;  air  h-adhairt,  CD;  air  t'  adhart,  E. 

25  leomhan,  A  B  ;  leomhan,  C  D ;  leoghan,  E. 

29  sceith,  A  B  ;  sgeith,  C  D  ;  sgeithe,  E. 

36  aing€al,  A  B  G  D  ;  aingeil,  E. 

41  champin,  A  B  ;  Champi,  C  D  ;  Champaidh,  E. 

42  an  tacaid,  ABC;  an  t  saighead,  D ;  an  t-saighead,  E. 
44  foladh,  A  B  C  D ;  fala,  E. 

49  Phealan-housain,  A  B  ;  Phealan-housein,  C  D  E. 

53  Air  a  phicaid,  A  B  C  D ;  Air  a'  phiocaid,  E. 

54  chach,  A  B ;  chaich,  C  D  E. 
57  Ge  do,  A  B  C  D  E. 

59  theaniing,  A  B  ;  thearuinn,  C ;  th^arainn,  D  E. 

63  re,  A  ;  le,  B  C  D  E. 

70  ann  caradh,  A  B ;  an  caradh,  C  D  ;  an  caramh,  E. 

81  siochaint,  A  B  ;  siochaidh,  C  D  E. 

91  Ann  am  paighe  dhuit  ciseaii,  A  B  ;  An  am  paighe  a  mhail  duit, 

C ;   An  km  paighe  a  mhail  duit,  D  ;    An  am  pMgheadh  a' 
mhail  duit,  E. 

92  Cha  bhiodh  di'th  air  do  theanandan,  A  B. 

Cha  bu  ghnath  leat  bhi  tallach  air,  C ;  gnath,  D. 
Cha  bu  ghna  leat  bhi  talach  air,  E. 
110    dhearadh,  ABC;  dhearradh,  D ;  dhearcadh,  E. 

458 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 


XVI.,  p.  130. 

Title  :  Cumha'  Chailein  Ghleanuir,  A ;  Cumha'  Chailein  Glinn-iuthair, 
B  ;  Ghlinn-iuthair,  C  D  ;  Cumha  Chailein  Ghlinn-iubhair,  E. 
9    Ghleanuir,  A;  Glinn-iuthair,  B;  Ghlinn-iuthair,  C  D;  Ghlinn- 
iubhair,  E. 

15  dionaich,  A  B ;  dhionaich,  C  D  E. 

16  lin-anart,  A  B  ;  lion-anart,  C  D  E. 

24  r'a  gh'  rait,  A  B  ;  r'a  gh'  rait',  CD;  r'a  rait',  E. 

30  Na,  ABC;  No,  D  E ;  speuran,  ABC;  speuraibh,  D  E. 

31  choslach,  A  B  C  D ;  choltach,  E. 

32  tu,  A  B  ;  thu,  C  D  E. 

37  chachuila,  A  ;  chachuile,  BCD;  chachaile,  E. 

38  'n  tacaid,  A  B  C  D ;  'n  acaid,  E. 
50    cheatarah,  A  B  C  D  ;  cheutaidh,  E, 

55  fuidh  euslain,  A  B ;  euslainnt,  C  D  ;  f o  euslaint,  E,  cf.  158. 

63  ch'dramh,  A  B  ;  charamh,  C  D ;  ch^radh,  E. 

70  t^rsa,  A  B  ;  tarsa,  C  D  E. 

71  ciatfach,  A  B  ;  ciat'ach,  C  D  ;  ciatach,  E. 
121  Mac  Caoi,  ABC;  Mac-Aoidh,  D  E. 

132    'Na  los,  A  B  C  D  E. 

152     O'n  a  dheug,  A  B  ;  O'n  a  dh'  eug,  C ;  O'n  dh'  ^ug,  D  ;  O'n  dh' 

eug,  E. 
154    choinnirah,  A  B  C  D  E. 
160    sgiuil,  A  B  ;  sgeoil,  C ;  chliu,  D  E. 

XVII.,  p.  142. 

B  omits.     Title:  Oran  do'n  Bhrigis,  A  ;  Gran  a  Bhriogais,  C;  Gran 
na   Briogsa,  D ;    Oran  nam   Briogsan,  E ;   Air  fonn,  Sean 
triuthas  Uilleam,  A  C ;  Sean'  Triuthais  Uilleachan,  D ;  Seann 
Triubhais  Uilleachan,  E. 
1     brigeis,  A ;  briogais,  C  D  ;  briogsa,  E. 
6     cuiridh,  A  ;  cuireadh,  C  D  E. 
14    Lunduin,  A;  Lunndain,  C  ;  Lunnain,  D;  Lunnainn,  E. 

24  fain  neart,  A  ;  fain-neart,  C  ;  ain-neart,  D  E. 

25  'S  o'n  a.  A;    A's  o'n,  C  E;  A's  o'n,  D;  am  brigis.   A;  am 

briogais,  C  ;  a  bhriogais,  D  ;  na  briogsan,  E. 

33  'S  thur  leam,  A ;  'Sar  leam,  C  D  ;  'S  air  leam,  E. 
37    sulasach,  A  ;  solasach,  C  ;  suigeartach,  D  E. 

44  neo-aoidheil,  A  C  D  E. 

45  deth,  A  C  D ;  d'i,  E. 

459 


APPENDIX  n 

46    sulais,  A ;  sulas,  C  D ;  sulais,  E. 
55     am  brigis,  A;  am  briogais,  C;  a  bhriogais,  D  E. 
dhiibladh,  A  C ;  dubladh,  D  E. 

57  addun,  A ;  adan,  C  D  E. 

58  Chuir  dian,  A  ;  Chur  dian,  C  D  E. 

71     eilidh,  A ;  'eilidh,  C  ;  'eididh,  D  ;  t-eideadh,  E. 

76    nam  brigisean,  A  ;  na'm  briogaisean,  C  D ;  nam  briogaisean,  E. 

XVIII.,  p.  148. 

14  Paraic,  A  B  ;  Paruic,  C  D ;  Pkruig,  E. 

16  croman-lachdan,  A  B  C  D  ;  -lachdunn,  E. 

18  'sa  bhroileach,  A  B  C  D ;  'sam  broilleach,  E. 

20  ci'rein,  A  B  ;  cirein,  C  D  E. 

82  ganndar,  A  B  C  D  ;  ganntair,  E. 

85  righbhin,  A  ;  righbhinn,  B  ;  ribhinn,  C  D  E. 

89  'S  chuir,  A  ;  Chuir,  B  C  D  E. 

XIX.,  p.  156. 

Title :  Oran,  mar  gun  deanadh  Nian  e  do  Niain  eile,  A  B ;  Nighean, 

do  Nighin,  C  D. 
1     nian,  A  B  ;  nighean,  C  D  E. 
7    fur  's  niosal,  A  ;  fu'  's  niosal,  B  ;  fuidh  's  n-iosal,  C  D  ;  fo  's  n- 

iosal,  E 

18  ciod  e  ni  mi,  A  B  ;  ciod  a  ni  mi,  C  D  E. 

23    gun  a  mart,  A  B  C  D  E  ;  chraoiraeas,  A  B  C  D ;  chriomas,  E. 
26    fhalbh  e  mi-mh'ail,  A  ;  go  mi-mh'ail,  B ;  go  mi-mhail,  C  D  ;  gu 

mi-mhail,  E. 
34    camruig,  A  B  C  D ;  camraig,  E. 
52    'o  thraigh,  A  B  ;  'o  thraigh,  C  D  ;  bho  thraigh,  E. 

XX.,  p.  160. 

Title  :  Oran  Bein-Dourain,  A  B ;  Oran  Beinn-dourain,  C  D  ;  Moladh 
Beinn-dorain,  E.     Airfonn,  Piobaireachd,  B  C  D  E.     Urlar, 
siubhal  not  in  A  but  in  B  C  D  E.    A  B  head  sections  by 
I.,  XL,  etc. 
3    Do  na,  A  ;  Na,  B  C  D  E. 

19  na  eitidh,  A  B  ;  na  eididh,  C  ;  na  eididh,  D  ;  na  ^ideadh.  E. 
26    teuchd,  A  B  ;  teuchd,  C  D ;  euchd,  E. 

460 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

29    biodh,  A  B  C  D  ;  bidh,  E. 

40    seolanna,  A  ;  seolanain,  B  ;  seolanain,  C  D  ;  seolainean,  E. 

54    chreachan  na  beine,  A ;  chreachan  na  beinn,  B  ;  chrachuin  na 
beinne,  C  D  ;  chreachainn  na  beinne,  E. 

56    ah  aonach,  A ;  'n  t  aonach,  B  ;  'n  t-aonach,  C  D  E. 

76    laoighean,  A  B  C  D  ;  laoghan,  E. 
101     asain,  A  B  ;  asain,  C  D  ;  asainn,  E. 

104    meathluich  na  siannta,  A  B  C  D  ;  meilich  na  siantan,  E. 
116    dionadh,  A ;  diodunn,  B  ;  diodean,  C  ;  didean,  D  E. 
119    fasgathach,  A  ;  fasgach,  B  C  D  E. 
121-168    BCD  omit. 

I.,  1-48,  A  B.     II.,49-120,  A  B.     III.,  121-168,  A. 

169    A  reads,  IV.  :  Cha  b'aithne  dhamh  co  leanadh  i 
Do  dh'  fhearuibh  na  Roinn-eorpa, 
Mur  faiceadh  e  deadh  ghean  orra, 
'S  tigh'n  farasda  'na  co'-dhail, 
and  then  467-514.     Next  follows  V.,  169-216;  VI.,  217-288; 
VII.,   289-336;  VIII.,   515,    'S   O!    b'ionmhuinn,  554;   IX., 
411-462  ;  X.,  337-410,  the  end  of  A. 

In  B,  after  120,  comes  III.,  169-216;  IV.,  217-288;  V.,  289- 
336  ;  VI.,  337-410  ;  VII.,  411-462  ;  VIII.,  463-654.     From  169 
onward  the  order  in  C  D  E  is  followed  in  the  text,  with 
alternate  urlar  and  siubhal  to  an  crunluaith. 
124     bi',  A  ;  bhith,  E. 
126    Luchd,  A  ;  A'  luchd,  E. 

129  oscarra,  A ;  fosgarra,  E. 

130  socair,  A ;  shocrach,  E.     135  g'a  h  araid,  A ;  g'a  farraid,  E. 

154    gloinin  innt',  A  ;  gleon  innte,  E.     158  bheothaile,  A ;  bheothail', 
E. 

165     'Nuair  bheireadh,  A  ;  'Nuair  a  bheireadh,  E. 

168     comhluath,  A  ;  comhladh,  E. 

172  Glan-feornaineach,    A    B;     Glan-fe6rnaineach,    C    D;     Glan, 

feoirneanach,  E. 

173  Bruchorachd,  A  B  C  D  ;  Bruchairreachd,  E. 

188    neonagan,  A  B  ;  neonagan,  C  D  ;  neoineagan,  E. 

196    do-Hth'chean,  A  B  ;  do-hth  chean,  C  D  ;  do-lichcinn,  E. 

205    an  oidhch',  A  B  C  D ;  oidhch',  E. 

217    luiseanach,  A  B   C  D ;  lusanach,  E  ;    fhailleanach,  ABC; 
fhaileanach,  D  E. 

220    Criosd'achd,  A  B  C  D  ;  Criosdachd,  E. 
237    sgiulta,  A  B ;  sgiolta,  C  D  E. 

461 


APPENDIX  II 

238  sguibealt',  A  B  C  D ;  sgiobailt',  E. 

245  air  dheireadh,  A  B  C  D  ;  air  deireadh,  E. 

250  Easgonach,  A  B  C  D  ;  Easganach,  E. 

252  clisge,  A  B  C  D ;  clisgeadh,  E. 

259  ann  coinniumh,   A   B   (cf.   coinniu,   Contrib.);  an  coinneamh, 

CDE. 

260  OS  'n  iosal,  A  B  ;  o's  'n  losal,  CD;  o's  'n-iosal,  E. 
269    Caoilte,  A  B  ;  Caoillte,  CDE. 

271     Na  tha  dhaoine  's  dh'  eachaibh,  A ;  Na  tha  dhaoine  's  do 

dh'  eachaibh,  B  C  D  E. 
283    groigeasach,  A  B  C  D  E.     287  mhonadh,  A  B  C  D  ;  mhunadh,  E. 
296    fotrus,  A  B ;  fotrus,  C  D  ;  fotus,  E. 
298     aodhach,  A ;  aobhach,  B  C  D  E. 
330    is  a  tuar,  A ;  sa  tuar,  BCD;  s'a  tuar,  E. 
362    Ain-fheasach,  A  B  C  D  ;  Ainfheasach,  E. 
368    roimh  'n  ghaineamh,  A  B  C  D  ;  tro'  'n  ghaineimh,  E. 
375    faruin,  A  B ;  faruinn,  C D  ;  arainn, E.     386  Is,  A  B ;  A's,  CDE. 
401    h  aiseiridhean,  A  ;  h  aiseirine',  B  ;  h-aiseirine,  C  D ;  h-aisirean, 

E. 
406    orra,  A  B  C  D ;  oirr',  E. 
423-6    omitted  in  B  C  D. 
424     Is,  A  ;  'S,  E. 
441     ceann-uithe,  A  B  C  D ;  ceann-uidhe,  E. 

445    Faile,  A  B  ;  Faile,  C  D  ;  Faileadh,  E  ;  siigh  craobh,  A  B  ;  siigh 
craobh,  C  ;  suth-chraobh,  D  ;  subh-chraobh,  E. 

451     Mordha,  A  B  C  D  ;  Mor-ghath,  E. 

455    a'  leum,  A  B  ;  a'  leura',  CDE. 

463-6    the  reading  of  B  C  D  E.     For  the  reading  of  A  see  above, 

169. 
465    mar  B  C  D  E. 
495-514    omitted  in  B  C  D. 
500    sbeireacha,  A  ;  speireanach,  E. 
506     eirear',  A  ;  eirthir,  E. 

508  deireannaiche,  A  ;  deireannaich,  E. 

509  Tabhunnaich,  A;  A'  tabhannaich,  E. 

510  teiUn,  A  ;  deilean,  E. 

512    teilleis  ria,  A ;  deileis  rise,  E. 

515  'SO!  b'  ionmhuinn,  A  ;  B'ionmhuinn,  B  C  D  E. 

516  sporsda,  A  B  ;  sporsta,  C  D;  sporsa,  E. 

521     barrandas,  A  B  C  D  E.     523  foirmeal,  A  B  C  D  E. 
533    fosgailt',  A  B  C  D  E. 

462 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

534    A'  comh-bhogartaich,   A ;    'Comh-bhogartaich,   BCD;    'Co- 

bhogartaich,  E. 
540    mac-thalla,  ABC;  mac-talla,  D  E. 

552  dleasdanas,  A ;  dleasd'nas,  BCD;  dleasnas,  E. 

553  bhreisdlich,  A  ;  bhreislich,  B  C  D  E. 


XXI.,  p.  196. 

Title :    Gran   do  Cheile,   A ;   Gran  do  Cheile  Nuadh-phoisde,  B  C ; 
Gran  d'a  cheile  nuadh-phosda,  D;   Gran  d'a  cheile  Nuadh- 
poste,  E. 
10    CO,  A  B  ;  CO,  C  D  E. 
13    ria,  A  B  ;  rith,  C  D  ;  r'i,  E. 

19    dithist,  A  B  C  D  ;  dithis,  E.     20  rithist,  A  B  C  D  E. 
22    inghean,  A ;  nion,  B ;  nighean,  C  D  E. 

26  G'a,  A  B  C  D ;  D'a,  E. 

27  a  chuir,  A  B  C  D  ;  chuir,  E. 

32  A  theachd,  A ;  Theachd,  B  C  D  E. 

55  reult,  A  B  C  D ;  reuU,  E. 

69  air  grunnd  mo  stamaic,  A  B ;  a  b'  iul  domh  aillis,  C ;  a  b'  iiil 

domh  aithris,  D  E. 
73-80    omitted  in  A. 

81  thog  i,  A ;  thog  e,  B  C  D  E. 

84  a's,  AB ;  is,  C  D  E. 

92  mhalaidh,  A  B  C  D  ;  mhala,  E. 

106  seamh,  A  B ;  seang,  C  D  E. 

107  co-mhin,  A  B  ;  co-mhin,  C  D  ;  cho-mhin,  E. 

108  soluist  le  cheil',  A  B ;  soluist  le  cheill,  C  D  ;  soluis  le  cheill,  E. 

109  Gaoirdeine,  ABC;  Gaoirdein,  D  ;  Gaoirdean,  E. 
114  a'm',  ABCDE. 

120  Sleit',  A  B  C  D ;  Sleibht',  E. 

121  'S  nam,  A  ;  'Nam,  B  C  D  E ;  charamh,  A  B  ;  charamh,  C  D  ; 

charadh,  E. 
129    as  crann,  as  arrachd,  A ;  as  crann,  as  dearrach,  B ;  a's  crann, 
a's  t-earrach,  C  D  E. 


XXII.,  p.  206. 

1,  13    bhuidh,  A  B  C  D  ;  bhuidhe,  E. 
5    's  is,  A  B  C  D  E ;  bhanaile,  A  B  C  D ;  banaile,  E 
9    'S  e  coslas,  A  ;  'S  e  cosail,  BCD;  'S  e  coltas,  E. 

463 


APPENDIX  11 

15  gleachdach,  A ;  cleachdach,  B  C  D  E. 

22  a  luchd,  A  B  C  D  E. 

29  ann  a  stir,  A  B  ;  ann  a  s'tir,  C  D  ;  anns  an  tir,  E. 

35  coslach,  A ;  cosail,  B  C  D  E. 


XXIII.,  p.  210. 

1  'S  A  Mharai,  A ;  'A  Mharai,  B  ;  'A  Mharai,  C ;  A  Mharai,  D 
A  Mairi,  E. 

6  cheana  d',  A  B  ;  chean'  ad',  C  D  E. 

12  oirdnibh,  A  B  ;  oirdnuibh,  C  ;  ordaibh,  D  E. 

16  posaidh,  ABC;  posda,  D  ;  poste,  E. 

20  a's  fhearr,  A  B  ;  is  fhearr,  C  D  E. 

34  mhaluidh  mar  ight,  ABC;  ibht,  D ;  mhala  mar  it,  E. 

44  sit,  A  B  ;  sid,  C ;  siod',  D ;  siod',  E. 

45  searah,  A  B ;  seang,  C  D  E. 

62    comhluath,  A  ;  cheothar,  B  C  E ;  cheo'ar,  D. 


XXIV.,  p.  216. 

1     'n  inghean,  A ;  nion,  B  ;  nighean,  C  D  E. 
10    tha,  A ;  a  tha,  B  C  D  E. 
29    as  an  diaigh,  A ;  as  an  deothaidh,  B  C  D  E. 
45     Nam  b'  i  rachadh  marrum,  A  ;  Nam  bithidh  i  marrum,  B ;  Nam 

bitheadh  i  mar'rium,  C  D ;  mar  rium,  E. 
51     A  'n  inghean,  A  ;  A  'nion,  B  ;  A'nighean,  C  D  ;  A  nighean,  E. 
74    Ruidh-leumnaich    ceoil,  ABC;    Ruidh-leumnach    ceol,    D; 

Ruith-leumnach  ce61,  E. 
82     beadurra,  A  B ;  bead'ra,  C  D  ;  beadradh,  E. 

85  d6cha,  A  B ;  docha,  C  D  E. 

86  Tuill'  as  a'  ch6ir,  A  B ;  Tuill'  a's  a'  choir,  C  D ;  TuiUeadh  a's 

a  choir,  E. 

XXV.,  p.  222. 

13  choslach,  A ;  chosail,  B  ;  chosmhail,  C  D ;  choltach,  E. 

22  Is  fhearr,  A ;  'S  fhearr,  B  C  D  E. 

38  fbla,  ABC;  fala,  D  E. 

43  eunlaith,  A  ;  eunlain,  BCD;  eunlainn,  E. 

48  chum,  A  ;  hun,  B  ;  thun,  C  D  E. 

50  ach  faileas,  A  B ;  ach  an  faileas,  C  D ;  ach  am  faileas,  E. 

464 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

52    olan,  A ;  olann,  B  ;  olainn,  C  D  E. 

54  coslach  a  ra',  A ;  cosail  a  m',  B ;  cosrahail  m',  C  D ;  coltach  m',  E. 

55  nftear,  A  B ;  nithear,  C  D  E. 

57    a  th'  ann  a  s,  A  B  ;  a  th'  anns  an,  C  D  E. 

59    na  faoidh-chloimhe,  A  B ;  faoidh-chloimhe,  C ;  faodh-chloimhe, 

DE. 
61     Inner-ghineachd,  A ;  Inner-ghinneachd,  B  ;   Inner-ghinneachd, 

C  D ;  Inner-Ghinneachd,  E.     66  Arrar,  A  B  C  D  E. 

70  nion-Donuil,  A  B  ;  nighean  Domhuil,  C ;  nighean,  Domhuil,  D ; 

nighean,  D6mhnuill,  E. 

71  ruchan,  A  B  ;  ruchdan,  C  D  E. 

81     Druim-a-chothuis,  A  ;   Druim-a-chothuis,  B ;  Druim-a-chothuis, 

C  D ;  Druira-a'-chothuis,  E. 
83     Inner-charnain,  A ;    Iner-charnain,  B ;    Inner-charnnain,  C  D ; 

Inner-charnain,  E. 

87  Daile-'n-easa,  ABC;  Dail'-an-easa,  D  E. 

88  'm  freasdal  a  ceanail,  A ;  a-ceanail,  B ;  a'  ceanail,  C ;  m'  freasdal 

a'  ceanail,  D ;  m'  freasdal  a  ceanail,  E. 
91    cor  as,  A  B  ;  cor  a's,  C  D  E. 
114    ainneal,  A  B  C  D ;  ainneil,  E. 
123    taileir,  A  B ;  taileir,  C  D ;  taillear,  E. 
159    dh'  fliuirgheas,  A  B ;  dh'  fhuir'eas,  CD;  dh'  fhuireas,  E. 

XXVL,  p.  236. 

Title  :  Gran  luaidh,  A  B  C  D ;  Gran  luaidh  no  fucaidh,  E. 

4  chlothlain,  A  B ;  chl6thlain,  C ;  chlodhlain,  D ;  chlolain,  E. 

8  thionndaidheas,  A ;  thionndas,  B  C  D  E. 

12  air  luadha'  'n,  A ;  air  luadh'  an,  B ;  air  luadh  an,  C  D  E. 

16  ciatfhach,  ABC;  ciatach,  D  E. 

23  bhean-tighe,  A  B  C  D  ;  bhean-taighe,  E. 

24  coslach,  A  ;  cosail,  B ;  cosmhail,  C ;  coltach,  D  E. 
33  siiil,  A  B  ;  siiil,  CD;  sul,  E. 

42    sunnd  air  muintir  6g,  A ;    oga,   B ;    sunnt  air  rauinntir  oga, 
CDE. 

End  of  A. 


XXVIL,  p.  242. 

Title :  Gran  do  Ghunna  ga'n  ainm  Nioc-Coiseam,  B  C ;    Gran  do'n 
Ghunna   ga'n  ainm  Nic-Coiseam,  D ;  d'an,   E ;  Air  fount 
*'  Sinidh  mi  mo  lurga,"  etc.,  E. 
5    cuidir  rium,  BCD;  cuidear  rium,  E. 

465  2  G 


APPENDIX  II 

6    chuidrim,  B  ;  chuidthrom,  C ;  chudthrom,  D  E. 
12    coire  cheathaich,  B ;  Choire-cheathaich,  C  D  E. 

17  Am  am  is  Creug  an  Aparrain,  B. 
Am  m^m  is  Creug-an-aparrain,  C  D. 
Am  rakm  is  Creag-an-aparain,  E. 

18  leaca,  BCD;  leacan,  E. 

19  Bheinn-dourain,  BCD;  Bheinn-d6rain,  E. 
26     spurt,  B  E ;  spuirt,  C  D. 


XXVIII.,  p.  248. 

8  cho  mhail  leam,  B  ;  cha  mhail  leam,  C  ;  cha  mhath  leam,  D  E. 

9  ga'il,  B  ;  ga'ail,  C  D  ;  gabhail,  E. 

12    tathaich,  B  C ;  tadhaich,  D  ;  taghaich,  E. 

25    Clachan  an  Diseirt,  B  ;  Clachan-an-Diseirt,  C  D  E. 

45    a  mhonaidh,  B  C ;  a  mhunaidh,  D  E. 


XXIX.,  p.  252. 

Title :  Oran  Alistair,  B  ;  Oran  Alastair,  C  D ;  Oran  Alasdair,  E. 
16    'S  fhearra,  B  C  D  E. 
29    Ghlascha,  B  ;  Ghlascho,  C  D  E. 


XXX.,  p.  254. 

6  dleasdanach,  BCD;  dleasnach,  E. 

8  sheasamh,  BCD;  sheasadh,  E. 

15  Bhithidh,  B;  Bhitheadh,  C;  Bhi'dh,  D  E. 

20  re  feam,  B  ;  re  feum,  C  ;  ri  feum,  D ;  ri  reum,  E, 

28  re  leath-taobh,  B ;  leth-taobh,  C  D ;  A  leth-taobh,  E. 

34  Flagh'ras,  B  C  ;  Flaghras,  D  ;  Flaghras,  E. 

46  naimhde,  BCD;  narahaid,  E. 

62  na,  B  ;  no,  C  D  ;  mo,  E. 

66  glas-lann  an  ceann-bheart,  BCD;  glas-lannan  ceanna-bheairt, 

E. 

67  ga  bar-dheas,  B ;  ga  bar-dheas,  C ;  gu  bar-dheis,  D ;  gu  barra- 

dheis,  E. 
72    gan,  B  C  D  E. 
74    ainneal,  B  ;  aingeal,  C  D  E. 

77    Gu  cuingseorach,  B  D  ;  Cu  cuingseorach,  C ;  cutnnsearach,  E. 

466 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

103    aineas,  B  ;  ain'eas,  C  D ;  ainteas,  E. 

106    an,  BCD;  do'n,  E. 

124    bhi,  B ;  bhiodh,  C  D  E. 

126    lanntan,  B  C  ;  lannan,  D  E. 

136    breacana  'n  fheil,  B  D  ;  breacana  'n  fheil,  C;  breacana  'n  fheil', 

E. 
140    Shassan,  B ;  Shasgunn,  C  D  ;  Shasuinn,  E. 
143    fairsing,  B ;  farsuing,  C  D ;  farsuinn,  E. 

eis  is  glossed  Maille  in  B. 
153    talanndan,  B  C;  talanndan,  D  ;  talanntan,  E. 


XXXI.,  p.  264. 

Title  :  Gran  do  Reisimeid  Earra-ghael,  B ;  Gran  do  Reisimeid  Earra- 
ghaidheal,  C  D  ;  Gran  do  Reiseamaid  Earra-ghaidheal,  E. 

17    oighichearan,  B  E  ;  oighchearan,  C  D. 

19    an  airm-ghaisge,  B  C  ;  omit  an,  D  E. 

31     h-Earra-ghaelich,   B;    h-Earra-ghaidh'lich,   C  D;     h-Earragha- 
laich,  E. 

41    dhoibh,  BCD;  dhuibh,  E. 

45    crios-gualann,  B ;  crios-gualainn,  C  D ;  crios-guaille,  E. 

47    fheime,  B  ;  fheuma,  C  D  E. 

50    dumhail,  B ;  domhail,  C  D  E. 

56     Is  fearr,  B  C  D  E ;  anns  na  buithin,B ;  anns  na  biithaibh,  C 
DE. 

58    Nach  sireadh  i  le  durachd,  B. 

Nach  sireadh  iad  e  durachd,  C  D. 
Nach  sireadh  iad  de  dhurachd,  E. 

67     fogh'nnan,  B  ;  fogh'nan,  C  D  ;  foghanan,  E. 

74    Rebheu,  B  ;  Rabhiu,  C  D  ;  Rabhiu,  E. 


XXXII.,  p.  272. 

20  is  airde,  B  C  D  E.     24  uatha,  BCD;  uap',  E. 

28  uait,  B  ;  uair,  C  D ;  uat,  E. 

44  cha  teichd,  B ;  cha  deic,  C  D  ;  teic,  E. 

63  G  'na  thug,  B  ;  G'n  a  thug,  C ;  G'n  a  thog,  D  E. 

71  eidigh,  B  ;  eididh,  C  D  E. 

83  'm  pharras,  B  ;  m  phkrras,  C ;  'm  Pharras,  D ;  'm  pkrras,  E. 

87  a's  fearr,  B  ;  is  fearr,  C  D  E. 

92  This  line  is  bracketed  in  B  C  D. 

467 


APPENDIX  n 


XXXIIL,  p.  278. 

1  nuaidheachd,  BCD;  naidheachd,  E. 

2  taitneadh,  BCD;  taitinn,  E. 

8    a  sheasamh,  B  C  D ;  a  sheasadh,  E. 

15  am  follas,  B ;  am  folluis,  C ;  am  follais,  D  E. 

17    fichid,  B  ;  fichead,  C  D  E.     19  cloc,  B ;  cloc,  C ;  cleoc,  D  E. 

31  Lunduinn,  B  C  ;  Lunnainn,  D  E. 

40  fireannach,  B  ;  firionnach,  C  D  E. 

44  parlaimid  Shasann,  B  ;  Parlamaid  Shasgunn,  C ;  Shasghunn,  D; 
parlamaid  Shasuinn,  E. 

61  mar  as  coir,  B  ;  mar  is  coir,  C  D  E, 

63  am  brigis,  B  C  ;  a  bhrigis,  D ;  a'  brighis,  E. 

65  Chuir  sinn  a  suas,  BCD;  Chuir  sinne  suas,  E. 

69  Cot  a  chadadh,  B ;  Cot'  a  chadadh,  C  D  E. 

74  an  fang,  B  E  ;  an  fanng,  C  D ;  n'as,  B  ;  ni's,  C  D  E. 

XXXIV.,  p.  286. 

Title :  Oran,  na'm  Fineachan  a  fhuair  Fearann  o'n  Ri,  B  ;  Oran  na'm 
Fineachan  a  fhuair  Fearann  o'n  Righ,  1782,  CD;  E  as  F. 

5  ar-bhaiticht\  B  ;  ar-bhaiticht',  C  D  ;  ar-bhacaicht',  E. 

6  a  Chaimp,  B  ;  a  Chaimp,  C  D  ;  a  Champ*,  E. 
11    ghluas,  B  C ;  gluas,  D  ;  gluais,  E. 

16  seirbheas,  BCD;  seirbheis,  E. 

32  a  chleachduinn,  B  C  D  ;  a  chleachdadh,  E. 

33  ainmeil,  B  C ;  ainmeidh,  D  E. 

34  Camaranich,  B  C  ;  Cam-Shronaichi  D  ;  Cam-Shronaich,  E. 
37    eibhle,  B ;  eibhle,  C  D ;  eibhlean,  E. 

41  Druman,  B  C ;  Drumon^  D  ;  Dhrumain,  E. 

43  Muileann,  B  ;  muileann,  C  D ;  muilleann,  E. 

44  Moirbheinn,  B  ;  Mor-bheinn,  C  D  E. 

50  Chaisteil  Leodach,  B ;  Chaisteal  Leodach,  C  ;  Chaisteal  Lebdach, 
D ;  Chaisteal-Le6dach,  E.  63  leabhai,  B ;  lebhi,  C ;  lehhi, 
DE. 

62  Ghiasaid  ceill  is  morchuis,  B  ;  Ciall  ga  reir  an  comhnuidh,  C  D ; 

Ciall  da  reir  an  comhnaidh,  E. 
90    luthmhor,  B  ;  luthmhor,  C ;  liigh'or,  D  ;  lughor,  E. 
94    na  bruchda,  B  ;  na  briichda,  C  D  ;  na  bruchd  a',  E. 
97    Cannanaich,  BCD;  Cananaich,  E. 
105    eideach,  B ;  eideach,  C ;  eideadh,  D  E. 

468 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

114    ga,  B ;  ga\  C  D  ;  d'a,  E. 

125    feile,  B ;  faille,  C  D  E. 

130    Is  leum,  B ;  A's  leum,  CD;  A's  leam,  E. 

133    tein'   ei'neis,    B ;    tein    ei'neis,  C ;    tein'   eibhneis,    D ;    tein' 
-dibhinn,  E. 

XXXV.,  p.  296. 

1    socair,  B  C  ;  socrach,  D  E. 

18  nan  Gaelibh,  B  ;  nan  Gaidhealaibh,  C  D  E. 

19  Gam,  B  ;  Ga'm,  C  D ;  Da'ra,  E. 

22    ar  dhaoirid,  B ;  ar  dhaoraid,  C  D ;  ar  dhaoireid,  E. 

29  mi-'or,    B;    mi-'or,    C;  mi 'or,   D    E;    H.S.D.    gives    miodhoir 

and  quotes  page,  149,  of  C. 

30  cha  fhulaing  sinn'  e,  B  ;  cha'n  fhulaing  sinn'  e,  C  ;  cha'n  fhulaing 

sinn'  idir  e,  D  ;  cha-n  fhulaing  sinn  idir  e,  E. 

35  loclaint,  B ;  loclainnt,  C ;  loc-slainnt,  D  ;  loc-slaint,  E. 

47  Cia  mar  a's,  B  ;  Cia  mar  is,  C  D  E. 

51  speura,  B  C  ;  speuraibh,  D  E. 

53  reoghta,  B ;  re6dhta,  C  ;  reota,  D  E. 

54  pora,  B  ;  p6ra,  C ;  poraibh,  D  E. 
70  ga'r,  B ;  ga',  C  D ;  d'ar,  E. 

XXXVL,  p.  302. 

Title:   Oran  a  Bhranndi,   B  C;    Gran   a   Bhranndai,   D;    Oran  a' 
Bhranndaidh,  E. 

16    chuir  spioraid,  B  ;  chuir  spiorad,  C  D ;  chur  spiorad,  E. 

20  gha'as,  B  C ;  ghabhas,  D  E. 
25    ri'isd,  B  ;  rithisd,  C  D  E. 

30    Na  smail  leinn,  B ;  Na's  maith  leinn,  C ;  Na's  math  leinn,  D  E. 

33    a  bhios,  B  C ;  bhios,  D  E ;  a  taitne,  B ;   a  taitneadh,  C  D ;  a 
taitinn,  E. 

35  a  thig,  B  ;  thig,  C  D  E. 

36  an  tsiucair  channdi,  B;  an  t-siucair-channdi,  C;  an  t-siucair- 

channdait  D  ;  an  t-smca.\r-channdaidh^  E. 

40  loinneas,  B  ;  loingeas,  C  D  E. 

41  bu  toil  linn,  B  ;  bu  toigh  leinn,  C  D  E. 
51    burnn,  BCD;  btirn,  E. 

469 


I 


APPENDIX  II 


XXXVII.,  p.  306. 

B  heads  each  piece,  Rann  I.,  II.,  etc.,  to  XIII.,  the  end  of  B. 
Title:  Rann  do'n  Pha'adh,  B;  Rann  do'n  Phaghadh,  C  D;   Rainn 
do'n  Phadhadh,  E. 
12    Achuire,  B  ;  A  chuir,  C  D  E. 
14     dearrlan,  B ;  dear-Ian,  C  D  E. 
16    fhein,  B  ;  fhein,  C  ;  fhein,  D  ;  f^in,  E  ;  gur  ^,  B ;  gu*r  e,  C  D ; 

gur  h-e,  E. 
22    Lion  a  suas  a'n  copan  fa'asd,  B. 

Lionar  suas  an  copan  fhathasd,  C  D  E. 


XXXVIII.,  p.  308. 

Title :  Rann  Arm,  B ;  Rann  Gearradh-Arra,  C  D  ;  Rainn  Gearradh- 
Arm,  E. 
4    mhaille,  B  ;  mhkilleadh,  C ;  mhailleadh,  D ;  mhaiUeach,  E. 
9,  37    imtheachd,  B  ;  imeachd,  C  D  E ;  roimh,  BCD;  tro',  E. 
13     Fineadh  a's,  B  ;  Fineadh  is,  C  D ;  Fine  is,  E. 
19     tarrunn,  B  ;  tarrung,  C  D  E. 

24  dhi,  B  ;  dh'i,  C  D ;  d'i,  E. 

25  Slei'teach,  B ;  Slei'teach,  C  D ;  Sl^bhteach,  E. 
27    Ghleadha,  B  ;  Ghleidheadh,  C  D  E. 

36  cruas,  BCD;  cruathas,  E. 

37  chuantain,  B ;  chuanntain,  C ;  chuanntaibh,  D ;  chuaintibh,  E. 

39  Mhic-Saoir,  BCD;  Mhic-Shaoir,  E. 

40  uachdarach,  BCD;  uachdrach,  E. 

49    'S  rioghail  an  eachdraidh,  B ;  'S  rioghail  eachdraidh,  C  D  E. 


XXXIX.,  p.  312. 

Rann  d'on  Ghae'lic  's  do'n  Phiob  mhoir  bliadhna,  1781,  B. 
Plann  do'n  Ghaelic  's  do'n  Phiob  mhoir,  bliadhna,  1781,  C;  'sa,  D. 
Moladh  do'n  Ghaelig,  's  do'n  Phiob  mhoir,  sa'  bhliadhna,  1781,  E. 
So  1782,  3,  4,  5,  9. 
7,  15    Ghle,  B ;  Ghleidh,  C  ;  Ghleidh,  D  E. 

23    'S  i  nios,  B ;  A's  nis,  CD;  A's  nis',  E. 

26    na,  B  C  D  E. 

28,  63    Sasunn,  B  E ;  Sasgunn,  C ;  Sasghunn,  D. 

30  air  dhuais,  BCD;  air  duals,  E. 

31  is  fearr,  B  C  D  E. 

470 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

32  An  deis  dhi  bhi,  B  ;  An  deigh's  bhith,  C ;  An  dei's  a  bhith,  D; 

An  d^is  a  bhi,  E. 

33  am,  B  C  D  ;  an,  E. 

34,  7,  41    a's  fearr,  B ;  is  fearr,  C  D  E. 

38  bhlaithe,  B  ;  bhlaithe,  C ;  bhlaithe,  D ;  bl^ithe,  E. 

41  togbhail,  B  C  ;  togail,  D  E. 

44  'S  a's  mine,  B  ;  A's  's  mine,  C  D  E. 

48  thogta,  BCD;  thogte,  E. 

68  meas,  B  ;  mios,  C  D  E. 

71  Ga  foghlam,  B ;  Ga  fdghlum,  C  D  E. 


XL.,  p.  318. 

2    sfor  chur,  B  ;  sir  chur,  C  D  E. 

4  thogbhail,  B  C ;  thogail,  D  E. 

5  A'  ghailic,  B  ;  A'  Ghaelic,  C  D ;  A'Ghkelig,  E. 

13  uaith  sin,  BCD;  uaithe  sin,  E. 

14  linnidh  ata  fa's,  B;  linneadh  ata  fks,  C;  linneadh  ata  fas,  D; 

linn  a  ta  ri  fks,  E. 
20    A'  cuir  a  grddli  an  geill,  B  ;  A'  cuir  a  gradh  an  geill,  C ;  A'  cuir 

a  gradh  an  geill,  D  ;  A'  cur  a  grMdh  an  ceill,  E. 
23     's  an  eachdairi',  B  ;  an  eachdraidh,  C  D  E. 
30,  56    is  fearr,  B  C  D  E. 
34    as  mo,  B ;  is  mo,  C  D  E. 
36    socair,  BCD;  socrach,  E. 
38    aintheas,  B  ;  ain'eas,  C  D  ;  ainteas,  E. 

46  as  fearr,  B ;  is  fearr,  C  D  ;  is  fearra,  E. 

47  sionsoir,  B  ;  sionnsair,  C  D  ;  seannsair,  E. 

65    Lunduinn,  B  ;  Lunnduin,  C ;  Lunnain,  D ;  Lunnainn,  E. 
71    ra  aireamh,  B ;  ra  kireamh,  C ;  ri  aireamh,  D  ;  ri  Mreamh,  E. 
79    air  talamh,  BCD;  air  thalamh,  E. 


XLL,  p.  324. 

6     'S  na  h  uil',  B  ;  'S  na  h-uil',  C  D  E. 
13,  7,  21,  5    'Ta  i,  B  ;  'Tha  i,  C  D  E. 
15    is  fearr,  B  C  D  E. 

19  treuntais,  B ;  treun'tais,  C  D ;  treubhantais,  E. 

20  deas-fhacalich,  BCD;  deas-fhaclaich,  E. 

28    an  gaireadh,  B ;  an  gaireadh,  C ;  an  gaire,  D ;  a'  ghMre,  £. 

471 


APPENDIX  II 

38  o  bragad,  B  D ;  o  bragad,  C  ;  o  braghad,  E. 

39  is  binne,  B  C  D  E. 

40  Cha    chluinnthear,   B ;    Cha   chluinntear,   C    D ;    Cha    chluin- 

near,  E. 

43  fear  a  gleus,  BCD;  fearr  a  gleis,  E. 

48  crun-ludh,  B  ;  crun-ludh,  C  D ;  criinludh,  E. 

51  air  bheul,  BCD;  air  beul,  E. 

53  a'  cleachduinn,  BCD;  a'  cleachdadh,  E. 

64  a  maireach,  B  ;  a'  maireach,  C  D  E, 


XLIL,  p.  328. 

4,  5,  21,  40,  59    is  fearr,  B  C  D  E. 

9  righridh,  B  ;  Righrean,  C  D ;  righrean,  E. 

10  Gan,  B ;  G'an,  C  D ;  D'an,  E ;  nan  coir,  B  ;  'na  coir,  C  D  E. 

12  ma'n,  B  ;  mu'm,  C  D  E. 

27  sacramaint,  B  ;  Sacramaint,  C  ;  Shcramaidy  D  ;  Skcramaid,  E. 

28  phap',  B  ;  Ph^p',  C  ;  Phap',  D ;  phkp,  E. 
33  paranta,  B  ;  paranta,  C  D ;  parantan,  E. 
36  al  tha,  B  ;  k\  tha,  CD;  al  a  tha,  E. 

49  iobhruidh,  B  ;  iobhraidh,  C  D  ;  iobhraidh,  E. 

51  osgara',  B ;  osgara,  C  D  E. 

53  Prosnuchadh,  B  C ;  Brosnuchadh,  D ;  Brosnachadh,  E. 

56  g'ara,  B  C  D  E. 

58  Lunduin,  B ;  Lunnduin,  C ;  Lunnain,  D  ;  Lunnaiiin,  E. 

66  is  boi'each,  B  ;  is  b6idhche,  C  D  E. 

67  Oaradh,  B ;  Garradh,  C  D ;  Garadh,  E. 

71  ga  h  ainail,  B  ;  ga  h-aineil,  C  ;  ga  h-ainail,  D  ;  d'a  h-aineal,  E. 

73  Mo,  BCDE. 

XLIIL,  p.  334. 

2  Tha  a'  cumail,  BCD;  A  tha  cumail,  E. 

10  gan,  B ;  g'  an,  C  D ;  d'an,  E. 

11  ga,  B  C  D  ;  da,  E.     15  sic  d'a,  E. 

15  gu  bicheant,  B  ;  gu  bichiont,  C  D  ;  gu  minig,  E. 

23  briosfior,  B  ;  brisear,  C  D  E. 

52  A,  moirear,  B ;  Am  M6r-fhear,  C  D ;  Sin  am  morair,  E ;  a  bu, 

B ;  bu,  C  D  E. 


472 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

XLIV.,  p.  340. 

27  a's  fhearr,  B ;  is  fhearr,  C  D  E. 

38  na  sluaigh,  B  ;  a  shluaigh,  C  D  E. 

41  a's  (rioghaile,  sine,  brioghmoire,  binne,  grinne),  B ;  is,  C  D  E. 

45  a  dhimail,  B  ;  a  dhimeil,  C ;  a  dhi-mol,  D  ;  a  dhi-moil,  E. 

48  b,  B  ;  'b',  C  ;  a  b',  D  E. 

53  a's  geire,  B ;  is  geire,  C  D  E. 

64  'S  liiaithe,  B  C ;  Is  luaithe,  D  E. 
a's  fhaide,  B  E ;  is  fhaide,  C  D. 

XLV.,  p.  344. 

Title:    Rann    Uistean,   B    C;   Rann    Uisdean    Phiobair',   D;    Aoir 
Uisdean  Phiobair',  E. 

1  Turras,  B  C ;  Turas,  D  E. 

2  Chinntaile,  B  ;  Chinntaile,  C  D ;  Chinn-taile,  E. 
20    a  tair,  B  ;  a  tair,  C  D  E. 

25  Filli,  B;  filli,  C;  filidh,  D  E. 

32  ga,  B ;  g'a,  C  D  E. 

40  gearran,  BCD;  gearan,  E. 

44  Bu  chora,  B  ;  Bu  choir,  C ;  'S  ann  bu  choir,  D  E. 

45  ghluggach,  mabbach,  B  ;  gblugach,  mabach,  C  D  E. 
47  chomhradh,  B  ;  chomhradh,  C;  chomhraidh,  D  E. 
50  phaidh,  B ;  phaidh,  C  ;  phaigheadh,  D  E. 

53  siothcha',  B;  siochadh,  C  D;  siochaidh,  E. 

55  an  tolc,  B ;  an  t-olc,  C ;  an  t-61,  D  E. 

59  conntom,  BCD;  con-tom,  E. 

64  A'd,  BCD;  Do'd,  E. 

69  gun  'Aolmann,  B  ;  gun'  aolmann,  C  D  ;  gun  aolmann,  E. 

72  Na  gaoth,  B ;  Na  gaoith,  C  D  E. 

73  gaoir,  B;  gaoth 'ar,  C;  gaothair',  D  E. 
84  an  tsiunnsair,  B  ;  an  t-seannsair,  C  D  E. 
95  rumbuill,  B  ;  riimbuUl,  C ;  riimpuill,  D  E. 

XLVI.,  p.  352. 

Title  :  Rann  Anna,  BCD;  Aoir  Anna,  E. 

1  Nion,  B  ;  nigh'n,  C  D  E  ;  Cromba,  B  ;  Cromba,  C  D  E. 

2  ai'rea',  B ;  aimhrea',  C  D ;  aimhreith,  E. 

5    samhach  socair,  B ;  siobhailt,  suairce,  C  D ;  siobhalt,  suairce,  E. 

473 


APPENDIX  II 

6  Mar  dhuine  bochd  a  giarruidh  fardaich,  B. 

Mar  dhuin'-uasal  anns  an  am  sin,  CD  E. 

13  laeth',  B  ;  latha,  C  D  E. 

16  angar,  B  D  E ;  anngar,  C. 

17  teisnas,  B ;  teisneas,  C  D  ;  teisteas,  E. 
23  a  leoir,  B  ;  na  leoir,  C  D ;  na's  leoir,  E. 
29  om  beul,  B. 

25-32    CD  E  read: 

Cha  n'eil  a  leannan  r'a  fhaotainn, 

Cia  mar  a  dh  fheudar  e  bhi  ann  di? 

Breunag  ris  an  can  iad  gaorsach, 

A  bha  daonnan  anns  na  campaibh ; 

A's  bha  rithist  feadh  'n  t-saoghail 

A'  giulan  adhaircean  aig  na  ceardan  ; 

Cha  d'fhuair  i  'n  onoir  a  shaoil  i, 

'N  t-urram  fhaotainn  air  na  bkrdan. 
26    dh'  fhaodas,  E.     28  campaibh,  E.     32  bardaibh,  E. 

33  treuntas,  B  ;  treunntas,  C  D  E. 

34  sgainneil,  BCD;  sgainneal,  E. 

36  gun  aime,  B ;  gun  fhaime,  C ;  gun  fhaitheam,  D  E. 

40  Bhana-mhaighisdir,  B ;   Bhana-mhkighistir,  C  ;   Bhana-mhaigh- 

istir,  D ;  bana-mhistear,  E. 

48  cosail,  BCD;  coltach,  E ;  Nathrach,  B  ;  nathrach,  C  D  E. 

52  nairt,  B  ;  'naird,  C  D  ;  'n-aird,  E. 

53  aogasg,  B  ;  aogas,  C  D  E. 

54  Aoig,  B  ;  aoig,  C  D  E.     55  lachdan,  BCD;  lachdunn,  E. 

56    Scossail,  B;   'S  cosail,  C  D;    'S  coltach,  E;    Leisge,  BCD; 

leisge,  E. 
59    Ga'd  thaine  me,  B  ;  Ged'  thaine'  mi,  C  D ;  Ged'  thainig  mi,  E. 
64    Cha  dtig,  B ;  Cha  d'thig,  C  D ;  Cha  tig,  E. 


XLVII.,  p.  356. 

Title :  Rann  a  ghabhas  Maighdean  ga  leannan,  B  C ;  d'a,  D ;  Rainn 
a  ghabhas  Maighdean  d'a  leannan,  E. 
12    tuaith,  B  C  ;  tuaigh,  D  E. 
14    e  uaidh,  B  ;  e  uaidh,  C ;  d  uaidh,  D ;  d  uaigh,  E. 


XLVIII.,  p.  358. 

Title :  Rann  I-challum-chille,  BCD;  Rainn  I-challum-cille,  E. 
4    fui',  B  ;  fuidh,  C ;  f6,  D  E. 
16    uUmhaich,  B ;  ullaich,  C  D  E. 

474 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

18    Do  bhiiannachan,  B ;  do  bhliadhnachan,  C. 
De  bhliadhnachan,  D  E. 

22  leachdannan  mharbh,  B ;  leachdan  nam  marbh,  C  D ;  leacan, 

nam  marbh,  E. 

23  shnaite,  B  ;  shnaighte,  C  D  E  ;  mhullach,  BCD;  mhuUadh,  E. 
27    luchd  eisteachd,  B ;  'n  luchd-eisdeachd,  C  E  ;  'n  luchd  eisdeachd, 

D. 
32    Chalum,  B  E  ;  Challum,  C  D. 


XLIX.,  p.  360. 

Title:    Rann   Co'dhunaidh,  B;   Rann   Co'-dhunaidh,  C  D;    An  Co- 
dhunadh,  E. 
3    cait',  B  ;  c'^t,  C  ;  cia  fhad,  D  E. 
5     flanin,  B  ;  flannin,  C  D  ;  flainin,  E. 

7  sga'n,  B  ;  'sga  'n,  C  D  ;  's  d'n,  E. 

8  'Oid,  B ;  fhoid,  C ;  fhod,  D  E. 

9  ro'n,  BE;  ro'  'n,  C  D, 
11     mu,  B  C  D  E. 

23  Dhe,  B  ;  Dhe,  CD;  De,  E. 

24  nam  laimh,  B ;  n'am  laimh,  C  D ;  's  'am  laimh,  E. 
26    pheacaidh,  BCD;  pheacadh,  E. 

28  dhoirte,  B ;  dhoirte,  C  D  ;  dhoirteadh,  E. 

32  fulannas,  B  ;  fulangas,  C  D  E. 

34  dibir,  B ;  diobair,  C  D  E. 

35  a  sios,  B  ;  sios,  C  D  E. 

37    a  suas,  BCD;  a  sin  suas,  E. 

41     ro  an  aog,  B  ;  ro'  an  aog,  CD;  ro  'n  aog,  E. 

49  chead  an  tsluagh,  B ;    chead  an  t'  sluagh,  C  D ;   chead  do'n 

t-sluagh,  E. 

50  Lan,  B  ;  Le'n,  C  D  E. 

54    Sinn  fhein,  B  ;  sinn  fhein,  CD;  iad  fein,  E. 
56    cho'n  eil,  B ;  cha'n  'eil,  C  D ;  cha  n-eil,  E. 
End  of  B. 


L.,  p.  366. 
5    achur,  CDE. 
8    bhuadhnachd-san,  C  ;  bhuaidhnachd-san,  D  ;  bhuannachd-san, 

E. 
12    birth's,  C  D ;  blathas,  E. 

475 


APPENDIX  n 

18  h-aiteana,  C  D ;  h-aitean  a. 

29  duslain,  C  D  E. 

33  frithear,  C ;  fridh'ear,  D ;  fridhear,  E. 

37  ga'n,  CD;  da'n,  E. 

44  raarbh',  C  D ;  marbh,  E. 


LI.,  p.  370. 

3  farsuing,  C  D;  farsuinn,  E. 

5  Gearasdain,  C  D ;  Gearasdan,  E. 

11  Troup,  C ;  Trup',  D  E. 

24  liogadh,  C  D  E. 

29  Stoise,  C ;  Stoise,  D  E. 

36  min-geal,  C  E ;  min-geal,  D. 

41  Abbailte,  C ;  Abailte,  D ;  abailte,  E. 

42  Fearras,  C  ;  Fsarr'as,  D  ;  Fearaghus,  E. 
66  le'n,  C  D  E. 

65  clous  a  Pharlamaid,  C ;  clous  na  Parlamaid^  D ;  Clous  na  ydrUv- 

maidy  E. 

68  chausair,  C  D ;  chabhsair,  D 

71  Ga'n,  C  D ;  D'  an,  E. 

73  a  Pharlamaid,  C ;  na  Parlamaid^  D  ;  na  parlamaidy  E. 

82  leighean,  C  D ;  leigheannan,  E. 

88  theasairgean,  C  D  E. 

95  casg,  C  D  E. 

101  is  taitneachadh,  C ;  is  taitniche,  D  E. 

102  Abbailt,  C ;  Abailt,  D  ;  abait,  E. 


LII.,  p.  378. 

Air  fonriy  "  Gum  b'eil  mo  ghradh  air  an  tailear  acuineach, 
22    ga'n,  C  D ;  d'  an,  E. 
30    a  shliochd,  C  D ;  Do  shliochd,  E. 
33     Francaich,  C ;  Frangaich,  D ;  Frangaich,  E. 
36    cion  fath,  C  ;  cion-fath,  D  ;  cean-fath,  E. 
50    ^ididh,  C  D  ;  eideadh,  E. 
53    iomad,  C  D  ;  iomadh,  E. 
66    e  braigh,  C ;  a  braigh,  D  ;  A  braigh,  E. 
78    e  grunnd,  C  ;  a  grunnd,  D ;  A  grunnd,  E. 
83    peilearain,  C  D  E. 

476 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 


LIU.,  p.  388. 

Title  :  Rdisimaid,  C ;  Reisimaid,  D ;  Reisearaaid,  E. 
5    Obair-Readhan,  C  ;  Obair-Readhain,  D  E. 
12    fhein,  C  D ;  fein,  E. 
15     'naird,  C  D ;  'n-ard,  E. 
29    ri  crann-arda,  C  D ;  ri  crann-ard,  E. 


LIV.,  p.  392. 

7  O'n  chuir,  C ;  O'na  chuir,  D  E. 

12  'S  ra6r  is  fearr,  C  D  ;  'S  mor  's  fearr,  E. 

13  BhrataUion,  C ;  Bhatallion,  D  ;  bhataUion,  E. 

14  'S  aithreach,  C  ;  'S  aighearach,  D  E. 
17  Fhada,  C;  Fhad 's  a,  D  E. 

21  trabh^ilidh,  C  D ;  trath-bhailidh,  E. 


LV.,  p.  394. 

Title:    Gran  a  chairap-1798,  C;   chaimp,  D;    Gran  a*  champa.     Sa' 
bhliadhna— 1798,  E. 
6    a  choidhe,  C  ;  a  choidh,  D  ;  a  chaoidh,  E. 
8    thige  ruinn,  C  D  ;  thigeadh  ruinn,  E. 
13    gu'n  fhearadh,  C  E ;  gu'n  fhearadh,  D. 
17     oidh'chearaiii,  C;  oichearan,  D  E. 
39    fir  laidire,  C ;  fir  laidir,  D  E. 


LVL,  p.  398. 

Title  ■■  Gran  do'n  Eannmhar,  C  D ;  Gran  do'n  Inbhir,  E. 

2    Connaghlais,  C  D ;  Cona-ghlais,  E. 

4    irrioghail  anns  d'thachair,  C  D ;  irioghail  anns  do  thachair,  E. 

9     s6mhail,  C ;  sumhail,  D  E. 
14     'n  ionnsuidh,  C ;  a  dh'  ionnsaidh,  D  E. 
19     lain-buidhe,  C;  lain-bhuidh',  D  E. 
23    Com,  CD  E. 

29    Gu'n  aodhlam,  C ;  Gun  fhoghlam,  D ;  Gun  fhoghlum,  E. 
31    an  aobhar,  C  D ;  an  t-aobhar,  E. 
84    a  marcach,  C  D  ;  a'  marcachd,  E. 

477 


APPENDIX  II 

43     Clanna-Cearda,  C  D  ;  Clann-na-Ceairde,  E. 

48     Gallaibh,  C ;  Gallthaobh,  D ;  Gall-thaobh,  E. 

51,  80    coslach,  C  D ;  coltach,  E.     52  iteodhach,  C ;  iteodha,  D  E. 

54    is  taitnicheadh,  C ;  is  taitniche,  D  E ;  58  'se  'n  por,  C  ;  'se'm  por, 

DE. 
61     na  fior-chailleadh,  C  ;  na  fior-chaille,  D  E. 
82    is  tair,  C  D  E. 

95    mu'n  t-saoghal  so,  C  D ;  rau'n  t-saoghals',  E. 
102    air  a  gartalan,  C  ;  air  a  gart-ghlana,  D ;  air  a  gart-ghlanadh,  E. 

LVII.,  p.  406. 

Title  :  Oran  Cead-deireannach  nam  Beann,  C;  nam,  D. 
Cead  Deireannach  nam  Beann,  E. 
1     Beinn-dourain,  C  D  ;  Beinn-dorain,  E. 
6    sleibhtean,  C ;  sleibhtibh,  D  E. 
18    raaoislicheadh,  C  D  ;  maoislichean,  E. 
26    aireanan,  C  ;  aireanaibh,  D  E. 
71    fuidh  chaoiribh,  C ;  o  chaoiribh,  D ;  fo  chaoirich,  E. 


LVIIL,  p.  412. 

Title  :  Rann  Claidheamh,  C  D ;  Rainn  Claidheimh,  E. 

2  charamh,  C  D  E. 

3  Di-ciaduinn,  C ;  Di-ciadainn,  D ;  di-ciadain,  E. 
19     B'  fheaird,  C  ;  B'  fheairde,  D  E. 

22  a  rachadh,  C;  rachadh,  D  E. 

26  a  'stric,  CD;  a's  trie,  E. 

29  e  truail,  C  ;  a  truaill,  D  ;  a  truaill,  E. 

31  e  cearduich,  C  D ;  a  ceardaich,  E. 

82  Andra  Farara,  C  ;  Andra  Farara,  D  ;  Aindrea  Farara,  E. 

33  Andra,  C  D ;  Aindrea,  E  ;  chiatfhach,  C  D  ;  chiatach,  E. 

37  Fiannaibh,  C ;  Fianntaibh,  D  E. 


LIX.,  p.  416. 

Title  :  Rann  do'n  cheud  cheaird,  C  D  E. 

7    snaithde,  C ;  snaithide,  D ;  snathaide,  E. 
12    a'  cur,  C  D  ;  'sa'  cur,  E. 
14    ruamhradh,  C  D ;  ruamharadh,  E. 

478 


NOTES  ON  THE  TEXT 

15  coibe,  C  D ;  caibe,  E. 

17  Eubh'a,  CDE. 

20  Ebarr,  C;  A' barr,  D  E. 

85  'na  aodhlamaid,  C ;  'na  fhaodhlamaich,  D ;  'na  fhaoghlumaich,  E. 


LX.,  p.  418. 

This  piece  follows  XL IX.  in  C  without  separate  title.  An  asterisk 
indicates  a  footnote,  "The  Author's  Epitaph,  by  himself." 
Title  :  Marbh-rann  an  udair,  dha  fein,  D ;  Marbh-rann  an 
ughdair  dha  fein,  E,  is  evidently  a  translation  of  the  note 
(which  is  repeated  in  D  not  in  E),  and  thus  forms  a  title 
inDE. 

10     Pharras,  C  ;  Pharras,  D ;  Parras,  E. 

14    fhailling,  C  D ;  fhaiUinn,  E. 

21    a  liuthart,  C  ;  liuthairt,  D ;  liubhairt,  E. 

32  Adhamh,  C ;  Adhaimh,  D  E. 

33  Trompaidi  C  D  ;  trompaid,  E. 

34  'sa  h-uile,  C ;  'sna  h-uile,  D  E. 
43    fallain,  C  D  ;  fallan,  E. 

50    phoisde,  C ;  phosda,  D  ;  phoste,  E. 
63    achuine,  C  D ;  achanaich,  E. 


LXI.,  p.  428. 

Title :    Gran   Iain    Faochaig,    D ;    Aoir  Iain    Fhaochaig,  E ;    Gran 
Bhuilc,  M'N.     Air  fonuy  "  Alasdair  a  Gleanna-Garadh,"  E. 
1    Ata  Eoin  Bhuilc  an  drast'  an  Sasgun  M'N. ;  Sagsan,  M'L. 
12    'G  a  phranadh,  D  (phronnadh  ?) ;  phianadh,  E. 
26    na  Faintean,  D ;  na  h-aintean,  E ;  fanta,  M'N. 
28    iad,  D  E  ;  e,  M'L.     34  a  mhasladh,  D ;  a  mhasladh,  E. 
41     sheallte,  D  E;  shubhailte,  M'L. 

49  an  t-eun,  D  E;  an  eun,  M'L. 

50  t'fhkgail,  D  E ;  t'  arach,  M'L. 
52    Aire,  D  ;  aire,  E  ;  airce,  M'L. 

56  duin'  a's  fiach,  D  E  ;  duine  's  fiach,  M'L. 

58  'Us  'bhi,  D  E ;  'Sa  bhi,  M'L. 

59  O'n  a  sean,  D  ;  O'n  a  shin,  E ;  O'n  a  lean,  M'L. 
63  'S  i,  D  E  ;  'S  e,  M'L. 

65    Thoisich,  D  E ;  Thionnsgain,  M'L. ;  Thiunnsain,  M'N. 

479 


APPENDIX  II 

73    greis,  D  E  ;  treis,  M'L. 

75    A  bhi,  D  E  ;  'S  bhiodh,  M'L. 

83     Bhreatann,  D ;    Bhreatunn,   E ;    Shasgunn,   M'N. ;    Shagsunn, 

M'L. 
85    dall  a,  D  E ;  dall  thu,  M'L.,  M'N. 
91    bheus,  D  E ;  mheas,  M'L. 

95     le  itheadh,  D  E  ;  air  itheadh,  M'L.  ;  air  iche,  M'N. 
113    Morair,  D  E  ;  Morbhir,  M'N. 
129    Bhruidhinn,  D  E  ;  Labhair,  M'L.     mu  alba,  M'L. 
131     'n  coir,  D  E  ;  'choir,  M'L.,  M'N. 

136    ghalar-bais,  D,  M'L.  ;  inneal-bais,  E  ;  ghalair-bkis,  M'N. 
138     Fhuair,  D  E  ;  Fhoill,  M'N. 
133-144    M'L.  and  M'N.,  slightly  corrected,  read  : 
'S  ann  a  nis  a  dhiol  do  chorp-sa 

Air  gach  olc  a  bha  thu  'g  raitinn  ; 
'S  lionmhor  mi-run  ata  'd  chuideachd, 
Mallachd  na  Cuigse  's  a'  Phap'  ort, 
Mallachd  chosnaichean  an  t-saoghail, 

'S  an  luchd-saothraich  anns  gach  aite, 
Mallachd  ochoineach  na  deirce, 

Bochd  is  eigneachan  is  phaisdean, 
Mallachd  dhilleachdan  is  bhantrach, 
Bhan  is  sheann-daoine  gun  slainte. 
Sin  bhi  'n  cuideachd  an  fhior-bheiste, 
'S  mo  mhallachd  fein  mar  re  each  dha, 
a'  chrioch. 


LXII.,  p.  436. 

Title :  Marbh-rann  le  Donnachadh  Macantsaoir  do  chuth  a  chaidh 
troimh  'n  eidhe,  sa  mhaiach  tarsaing  na  bheul,  D ;  Marbh- 
rann  do  chu  a  chaidh  troi  'n  eigh,  sa'  mhaigheach  tarsainn 
'na  bheul,  E. 
17    cullaidh,  D ;  culaidh,  E. 


480 


APPENDIX   III 

HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 
p.  xviii. 

The  poet's  sayings  which  have  come  down  to  us  are 
indications  not  so  much  of  his  conversational  gifts  as  of  his 
formidable  powers  of  poetical  repartee.  The  following 
anecdotes,  the  point  of  which  is  doubtless  in  some  instances 
blunted  by  passing  through  various  phases  of  tradition,  are 
nevertheless  amply  sufficient  to  prove  that  the  poet  was  a 
very  witty  man.  The  setting  cannot  now  be  determined, 
and  the  editor  has  accordingly  selected  the  versions  which 
seem  to  be  on  the  whole  the  most  coherent  and  intelligible. 

It  is  well  known  that  there  was  a  rivalry  between  the 
poet  and  MacMhaighstir  Alastair.  The  latter,  while  acting 
as  schoolmaster,  saw  Duncan  Ban  passing  his  school,  and, 
yielding  to  the  impulse  of  the  moment,  despatched  a  boy, 
whom  he  prompted  to  shout  the  following  verses  at  the  rival 
bard  : — 

Donnchadh  Ban  Mac-an-t-Saoir, 

Fear  gun  fhoyhlum  gun  tlachd, 

Cha  bu  mhd  arm  briathran  a  bheoil 

Na  na  leanadh  ri  m  bhrdgan  de'n  c. 

**  Duncan  Ban  Maclntyre, 
Without  lear,  taste,  or  fire, 
O'er  his  words  I  make  no  more  ado 
Than  the  ordure  that  sticks  to  my  shoe. " 

481  2H 


APPENDIX  III 

The  boy,  having  said  his  say,  disappeared ;  and  Duncan, 
who  had  heard  but  had  not  seen  him,  remarked : 

Na'm  faicinn  e 

Thug  mi  'w  craicionn  deth. 

"  Had  I  surveyed  him, 
Fd  have  flayed  him," 

and  then  went  on  his  way. 

While  the  poet  sang  his  songs  at  Fort  William  on  the 
occasion  of  a  visit  there,  he  was  holding  the  book  upside 
down.  Some  one  remarked  on  this,  and  Duncan,  who,  be 
it  remembered,  could  neither  write  nor  read,  retorted :  Cha 
dean  e  muthadh  do  sgoilear  math  ciod  e  an  ceann  hhios  ris  (no  gu 
h-ard)  :  "  It  makes  no  difference  to  a  good  scholar  what  end 
is  towards  him  (or  uppermost)." 

Referring  to  the  fact  that  the  poet  spoke  only  Gaelic,  a 
disingenuous  sympathiser,  no  other  than  The  Tailor  as  some 
say,  remarked  to  him :  Na^h  mor  am  heud  nach  rohh  an  da 
theanga  agad  ?  "  Is  it  not  a  great  pity  that  you  have  not  the 
two  tongues  }  "  Na'n  rohh,  ars  esan,  an  da  chdnain  anns  a'  bhun 
a  th'  ann,  dheanadh  e  an  gnothuch :  "  If,  quoth  he,  the  two 
speeches  were  upon  the  stump  I  have,  it  would  do." 

Accosted  on  one  occasion  by  a  farmer  at  Tyndrum,  and 
asked  why  he  had  not  sung  of  the  places  in  Succoth,  near 
Dalmally,  seeing  he  had  celebrated  many  of  the  places 
round  about,  the  poet  replied : — 

Cia  mar  a  ni  mise  am  moladh 
'(S  is  maith  mo  chothrom  air  an  caineadh, 
Coire-na-gaoithe  is  Coire-an-t-sneachda 
Coire-an-lochain  is  Coire-an-sgriodain. 

"  How  shall  I  to  praise  them  go  ? 

For  dispraise  good  my  chances  are  ; 
There's  Windy  Corrie,  and  Corrie  of  Snow, 
The  Corrie  of  Lochan,  the  Corrie  of  Scaur." 

Entering  the  public-house  or  inn  at  Cuilfail  on  one 
occasion,  he  met  there  three  excise  officers,  or  gaugers ;  and 

482 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

he  was  so  struck  with  the  circumstance  that  he  is  said  to 
have  composed  a  poem  of  some  length,  of  which  the  following 
is  the  opening  stanza : — 

Tha  mi  bed  mu  leth-cheud  bliadhna 

'/S  mi  fas  liath  an  d6idh  hhi  ban 
*S  cha  n-fhaca  mi  riamh  'san  t-saoglial 

Tri  maoir  an  Tigh  Chuil  Fdil. 

"  Alive  nigh  fifty  years  I've  been, 

And  I  grow  grey  who  once  was  fair, 
And  in  the  world  IVe  never  seen 
In  Cuilfail  Inn,  three  gangers  there." 

Perhaps  the  best  known  of  all  his  extempore  efforts  is 
the  Altachadh,  or  Grace,  which  he  said,  according  to  some 
accounts,  at  an  officers'  mess  in  Edinburgh.  His  poetic  gifts 
were  well  known ;  and  some  Lowland  guests  having 
expressed  a  curiosity  to  see  the  poet  and  to  hear  his  Gaelic, 
he  was  requested  by  the  officers,  who  all  knew  Gaelic,  to 
officiate  as  chaplain,  and  delivered  himself  thus  : — 

Is  truagh  nach  robh  mi  'm  Buachaill  Eitidh 
Ou  h-aird  na  sUisde  anns  an  t-sneachd  ann, 

'/S  a  h-uile  Gall  a  tha  'w  Dun-eideann 
As  mo  dhiidh  is  tad  cas-ruisgte. 

*'  Oh  !  would  I  were  on  Buachill  Etive, 
Thigh-deep  in  the  snow  fast  rooted, 
Edina's  Lowlanders,  strange  or  native. 
All  behind  me,  all  barefooted." 

This  stanza  may  well  have  been  made  by  the  poet,  but 
on  some  other  occasion,  as  it  is  not  in  the  form  of  a  grace, 
and  the  alleged  incident  is  not  in  keeping  with  his  character. 

p.  10,  6. 

James  Colquhoun  of  Luss,  whose  commission  as  Captain, 
No.  5  Company,  Black  Watch,  was  dated  26th  October  1739, 
"frequently  designated  Captain  and  Major  in  the  family 
writings,"  was  infefted  in  the  lands  and  barony  of  Luss  on 

483 


APPENDIX  III 

29th  August  1739.  He  married  in  1740,  Helen,  eldest 
daughter  of  William,  Lord  Strathnaver.  He  served  in 
Flanders,  and  after  seeing  some  service,  was  promoted  to 
the  rank  of  Major  of  Lord  Sempill's  Highland  Regiment,  the 
Black  Watch,  42nd  Regiment,  and  came  home  invalided 
previous  to  1745.  Five  months  before  his  death  in  1786  he 
was  created  a  baronet  by  George  III.  Helensburgh  on  the 
Clyde  was  called  after  his  wife. 

p.  16,  17. 

Cosham's  daughter  was  the  nickname  for  the  gun  which 
the  poet  used  in  stalking,  as  he  used  the  nicknames  George's 
daughter  and  Seonaid  for  the  weapons  he  carried  in  the  City 
Guard.  In  the  New  Statistical  Account^  vol.  x.,  p.  1089,  the 
gun  is  mentioned  as  being  then  (1843)  in  possession  of  one 
Sinclair,  tenant  of  Inverchaggernie.  On  his  bankruptcy  two 
years  later  the  musket  was  sold.  On  28th  December  1910 
the  editor  casually  mentioned  the  gun  to  John  Walker, 
Killin,  who  said  that  his  father,  an  auctioneer,  had  bought 
in  an  old  gun  in  Glendochart  with  which  my  informant  when 
a  boy  used  to  shoot  crows,  and  which  he  ultimately  gave  to 
one  collecting  old  relics  for  Breadalbane's  house,  Auchmore, 
at  the  west  end  of  Loch  Tay.  We  forthwith  examined  the 
gun,  a  strong  military-looking  piece  with  an  ingenious 
contrivance  for  half-cock,  strong  screw  for  the  flint,  the  spring 
outside  (which  is  probably  referred  to,  p.  62,  18),  the  stock 
apparently  of  walnut,  4  ft.  6  ins.  long,  and  supporting  the 
barrel  to  within  3  ins.  of  the  muzzle,  from  which  J.  W.  in 
his  early  days  had  cut  off  some  inches.  The  sighting  was 
not  provided  for.  This  ancient  gun,  however,  in  the  poet's 
hands  had  laid  low  many  an  antlered  head. 

"  It  had  been  used  for  other  purposes  than  wounding  the 
antlered  monarchs  of  Coire-cheathaich  and  Beinn-dourain. 
A  party  of  soldiers  had  in  1745  been  sent  from  Finlarig 
Castle  to  burn  the  House  of  Coire  Chaorach,  near  ^enmore. 

484 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

They  were  watched  by  M*Nab  of  Innisewen  from  the 
opposite  side  of  the  glen.  After  setting  fire  to  the  mansion 
they  were  again  on  their  march  to  Finlarig,  when,  happening 
to  look  back,  they  observed  that  the  fire  had  gone  out.  One 
of  them  was  sent  back  to  rekindle  it.  He  was  observed  by 
M'Nab,  who,  from  his  place  of  concealment,  fired,  and  killed 
the  red-coat.  The  rest  of  the  party,  seeing  the  fate  of  their 
companion,  rushed  down  to  the  river,  but  ere  they  had 
reached  it,  other  three  were  made  to  kiss  the  earth.  M'Nab 
then  retreated  to  the  rocks  above,  still  watching  his  pursuers, 
and  from  the  heights  he  killed  three  more  of  his  enemies, 
when  the  rest  became  terrified  and  gave  up  the  destructive 
pursuit.  In  the  stock  of  the  rifle  there  is  a  recess  for  the 
supply  of  bullets."  This  last  statement  by  the  writer  in  the 
New  Statistical  Account  is  erroneous.  The  recess  held  not 
balls  but  thin  patches  of  oiled  rag,  in  one  of  which  the  ball 
was  placed  and  then  rammed  home.  He  describes  the  gun 
by  quoting  p.  132,  33-36,  and  gives  the  length  as  4  ft.  If  it 
be  the  same  gun  (which  may  be  doubted),  he  either  had  not 
seen  it,  or  had  not  examined  it  attentively,  and  had  mistaken 
the  plate  in  the  stock  for  a  recess. 

Some  light  is  thrown  on  the  name  of  the  gun  by  the  fact 
that  there  were  M*lntyres  in  Craignish,  dependants  of  old  "  to 
the  house  and  surname  of  Glandule  Cregnis  alias  Campbellis," 
and  they  gave  a  bond  of  manrent  to  Campbell  of  Barrichbyan 
in  1612.  This  sept  was  called  Clanntyre  Vc  Coshem,  their 
chief  being  called  in  the  bond  of  1612  Malcolm  M'Donchie 
Vc  Intyre  Vc  Coshem.  The  clan  name  is  still  known, 
and  the  tradition  that  the  poet  bought  the  gun  from  a 
kinsman  living  in  Glenlochay  may  thus  be  true. 

p.  26,  105. 
That  a  just  king  caused  salubrity  and  fecundity,  an  unjust 
the  reverse,  was  a  belief  prevalent  in  pagan  Ireland. 

A.  U.  1534,  note. 
O'Bruadair's  Poems,  p.  33,  XV. 
485 


APPENDIX  III 

p.  30. 

John,  styled  Lord  Glenorchy,  was  born  20th  September 
1738,  in  London,  and  married,  26th  September  1761, 
Willielma,  second  and  posthumous  daughter  and  co-heiress  of 
William  Maxwell  of  Preston.  He  was  the  youngest,  and  only 
son  of  the  third  Earl  of  Breadalbane  to  reach  manhood  ; 
and  therefore  the  first  Earl  who  invaded  Caithness  (p.  30,  29) 
was  his  great-grandfather,  and  not  his  grandfather  as  the  text 
alleges,  unless  indeed  the  poet  uses  the  term  in  the  sense  of 
ancestor.  Lord  Glenorchy  succeeded  in  1762  to  Great  Sugnal, 
in  Staffordshire  ;  but  at  the  suggestion  of  Lady  Glenorchy 
he  sold  it  in  1769,  and  bought  Barnton,  near  Edinburgh, 
taking  possession  in  1770.  The  poet,  while  not  departing 
from  the  truth,  appears  to  have  made  the  most  of  his  subject. 
Chambers,  Traditions  of  Old  Edinburgh,  ii,,  38,  roundly  says 
that  "  Lady  Glenorchy  was  exceedingly  unfortunate  in  her 
marriage,  that  her  husband  was  in  every  respect  the  opposite 
of  his  wife — at  once  a  rake  and  a  macaroni,  and  that  he  is 
mentioned  in  a  scandalous  ballad,  written  on  the  occasion  of 
a  ridotto  in  Holyrood  House  but  not  till  then  printed,  one 
verse  of  which  runs  : 

'*  And  there  was  Glenorchy,  that  delicate  youth, 
Who  ventures  abroad  when  the  wind's  in  the  south.** 

She  had  domestic  trials,  and  was  often  unaccompanied  by 
her  husband.  It  is  to  the  credit  of  both  that  notwithstanding 
that  Lord  Glenorchy's  temper  was  peculiar  and  unpleasant, 
such  was  her  influence  over  him  that  there  was  no  object  of 
importance  which  she  wished  to  gain  that  she  did  not  accom- 
plish, and  that  too  with  his  entire  approbation.  He  died 
at  Barnton,  11th  November  1771,  and  lies  buried  in  Finlarig. 
He  left  her  all  the  property  over  which  he  had  disposing 
power.  He  seems  really  to  have  had  a  high  esteem  and 
affection  for  her ;  and  it  is  satisfactory  to  learn  that  his  last 
days  and  hours  showed  that  the  religious  sentiments  with 
which  Lady  Glenorchy  had  endeavoured  to  impress  him  were 

486 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

not  altogether  lost.     Life  of  Lady  Glenorchy,  pp.  208,  253, 
260. 

p.  44,  33. 

MacBhaididh  was,  according  to  a  tradition  still  current  in 
Glenlyon,  a  Culdee  monk,  or  hermit,  who  was  taken  by  the 
people  of  Glenlyon  down  to  Fortingall  and  drowned  in  a  pool 
near  Fortingal  Mill.  The  pool  is  now  called  Linne  a'  Phiocair. 
But  local  archaeologists  affirm  it  had  a  much  older  name, 
Linne  Fhiachraidh.  Under  the  year  608  Tighernach  has 
the  following  entry : — Bass  Fiachrach  craich  maic  Baedan  la 
Cruithnechn :  "  Death  of  Fiachra,  the  pious,  son  of  Baedan,  by 
Picts." 

p.  46,  74. 

The  corrie  was  called  royal  probably  only  because  it  was 
pre-eminent  in  the  poet's  eyes.  But  it  lies  in  the  Royal 
Forest  of  Mam  Lorn,  and  the  memory  of  royal  visits  still 
lingered  there.  King  James  IV.  visited  Auch  on  the  last 
day  of  August  1506,  remained  for  a  week,  and  passed 
to  the  N.  of  the  corrie  on  his  way  down  Glenlyon  to 
Weem,  whence  he  proceeded  north  to  Kingussie. 

p.  52,  138. 

Fionn-gkleann  is  a  very  lonely  spot  where  a  shepherd's 
wife  resided  for  many  years  before  moving  to  a  more  populous 
place.  In  this  new  situation,  having  many,  too  many 
visitors,  especially  on  the  Lord's  Day,  she  wished  herself 
back  again  in  "  Fionn-ghleann  mo  chridhe  far  nach  bi  Di-domh- 
naich "  ;  "  Fionn-ghleann  of  my  heart,  where  there  is  no 
Sunday." 

p.  52,  11. 

Sir  John  Campbell  of  Glenorchy  (1635-1716),  popularly 
known   as    John    Glas,  or  Grey,  was   a   prime   architect  in 

487 


APPENDIX  III 

building  up  the  fortunes  of  his  family,  and  became  principal 
creditor  of  George  Sinclair,  sixth  Earl  of  Caithness,  from 
whom  he  obtained  a  conveyance  of  his  title  and  estates  in 
1672  ;  and  a  crown  charter  and  infeftment  were  secured  the 
following  year.  He  did  not  enforce  his  rights  during  the 
life  of  his  debtor,  but  lived  in  family  with  him,  and  became 
bound  to  allow  him  and  his  Countess  1 2,000  marks  as  aliment. 
The  Earl  of  Caithness  died  in  1676  without  issue,  and  Sir 
John  was  created  "upon  gross  and  false  misrepresenta- 
tions "  Earl  of  Caithness,  Viscount  of  Breadalbane,  Lord  St 
Clair  of  Berriedale  and  Glenorchy,  and  directed  to  assume 
the  name  and  arms  of  Sinclair.  Sinclair  of  Keiss  disputed 
the  legality  of  the  sale  of  the  Earldom  to  John  Glas,  who 
thereupon  sent  the  Fiery  Cross  round  Loch  Tay,  and 
assembled  the  clan  to  make  good  his  claims.  The  test  of 
qualification  for  the  expedition  was  leaping  over  the  double 
plaid,  4  ft.  9  in.  high,  each  man  being  fully  accoutred  and  in 
marching  order ;  and  with  the  700  or  800  men  thus  selected, 
he  invaded  Caithness,  and  dispossessed  the  laird  of  Keiss  of 
his  lands.  To  this  our  poet  refers,  p.  30,  19  ;  76, 169.  King 
Charles  IL  annulled  the  patent,  however,  and  confirmed 
George  Sinclair  of  Keiss,  heir-male  of  the  last  Earl,  in  the 
dignity.  In  1681  John  Glas  obtained  a  new  patent  whereby 
he  was  created  Earl  of  Breadalbane  and  Holland,  Viscount 
of  Tay  and  Paintland,  Lord  Glenorchy,  Benderaloch, 
Ormelie,  and  Weick,  with  a  special  power  to  name  as  his 
successor  one  of  his  younger  sons  by  his  first  wife.  John 
Glas  had  married,  firstly,  Lady  Mary  Rich,  daughter  of  the 
Earl  of  Holland,  and  by  her  had  two  sons,  Duncan,  styled 
Lord  Ormelie,  and  John,  who  became  second  Earl  of  Breadal- 
bane. On  her  death  he  married,  secondly,  the  widow  of  his 
debtor,  the  Countess  of  Caithness,  and  by  her  had  a  third 
son,  Colin  of  Ardmaddie,  who,  according  to  tradition,  was 
father  of  John  Campbell  of  the  Bank.  Duncan,  the  Earl's 
eldest  son,  was  disinherited  by  his  father,  whether  owing  to 

488 


HISTOKICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

the  facility  of  his  nature,  personal  dislike,  or  political 
motives,  is  by  no  means  clear.  Duncan  is  generally  stated 
to  have  died  unmarried,  or  childless,  about  1727.  Elsewhere 
he  is  stated  to  have  married  Margaret,  daughter  of  Campbell 
of  Lawers,  whose  husband  was  undoubtedly  Duncan  Campbell, 
but  whether  Lord  Ormelie  or  not,  still  requires  proof.  There 
is  a  strong  tradition  in  the  Highlands  that  he  had  two  sons, 
Patrick  and  John,  who  were  present  with  him  at  Sheriffmuir 
in  the  cause  of  the  Prince,  to  whose  assistance  the  Earl  had 
sent  500  men ;  and  that,  on  the  death  of  the  Earl,  Duncan 
and  his  two  sons  retired  to  his  own  estate  of  Catinnis, 
Innischatain,  and  Auchinnischalain,  or  Auch,  in  the  fee  of 
which  he  had  been  infeft  in  1670 ;  that  Duncan  and  his  sons 
are  the  "heroes"  referred  to  by  the  poet  as  his  contem- 
poraries of  happy  memory,  p.  52,  11,  and  one  of  whom  is 
mentioned  p.  60,  129  ;  162,  42  ;  and  that  the  tacharan  is  none 
other  than  Lord  Glenorchy,  who  was  undoubtedly  unpopular, 
and  had  from  whatever  reason  to  flee  the  country  and  live  in 
London,  and  against  whose  vote  at  the  election  of  the  Scots 
Peers  there  was  a  protest  by  Lord  Saltoun  in  1721.  Patrick, 
the  darling  of  the  popular  imagination,  had,  it  is  said,  a  seat 
near  Coire-chruiteir,  where  he  sat  directing  the  chase ;  and  the 
opposite  hill  was  set  apart  for  hard-pressed  deer,  the  gaining 
of  which  by  a  mettlesome  stag  was  the  immediate  signal  for 
the  discontinuance  of  the  chase.  His  seat  was  held  in  great 
veneration  long  after,  and  used  to  be  visited  by  ardent 
sportsmen  that  they  might  have  the  honour  to  sit  on  Big 
Patrick's  seat.  Suidheachan  Pheadair  Mhoir  of  the  O.S.  maps, 
and  Clock  Phara  Mhoir  of  current  tradition,  coincide,  and 
point  to  a  big  stone  about  fourscore  paces  S.  of  Auch  River, 
and  at  no  great  distance  E.  of  the  Railway  Viaduct,  as  being 
the  scene  where  Patrick  enthroned  himself  to  view  the 
deer. 

Patrick  married  Jean  M'Nab,  aunt  of  Francis  M'Nab  of 
M*Nab.     In  1750  he,  then  the  only  son  of  Duncan  in  Auch- 

489 


APPENDIX  in 

inniscalain,  received  from  the  third  Earl  a  charter  of  Wester- 
sticks,  etc.,  which  was  registered  in*  1752.  They  had  a  son 
Duncan,  styled  of  Carquhin,  who  was  baptized  in  1715,  and 
joined  the  Prince  with  all  his  personal  friends.  So  numerous 
were  they  that  he  was  at  the  outset  considered  the  third  man 
in  the  Highland  army  and  the  first  in  the  affections  of  the 
Prince.  He  was  called  "  Big  Duncan  of  the  Sword "  on 
account  of  his  skill  with  that  weapon,  and  "  French  Duncan  " 
from  his  linguistic  abilities.  Intending  to  join  the  Prince  at 
Culloden,  he  assembled  800  men,  but  was  surprised  at  night 
in  his  own  house,  taken  prisoner  by  Argyll,  and  lodged  in 
Stirling  jail.  Escaping  thence  after  an  imprisonment  of  six 
months'  duration,  he  found  Breadalbane  under  military  law, 
and  garrisons  placed  in  Finlarig  and  Kilchurn.  He  wandered 
about  an  outlaw  for  seven  years  in  Balquhidder,  Glenbeich, 
Glenogle,  and  in  Coire-dubh-Mhalagain  in  Glenorchy.  He 
took  part  in  a  mission  to  the  Prince  in  London,  where  a 
considerable  number  of  English  and  Scottish  adherents  of 
rank  met  him,  but  the  house  was  surrounded  by  Argyll,  who 
informed  them  that  their  names  were  known,  and  addressing 
the  Prince  told  him  to  quit  the  country.  Duncan  returned  to 
the  Highlands,  where  he  found  the  spirit  of  revolt  ripe  and 
ready  for  a  rising ;  but  he  was  himself  recognised  by  the 
red-coats  and  with  difficulty  escaped  their  hands.  He  is  cele- 
brated by  A.  Macdonald,  An  Aire,  p.  137,  and  by  other 
bards. 

He  married  Janet  M^Andrew,  Fernan,  in  1746.  The 
third  Earl  admired  his  cousin,  "  Big  Duncan,"  who  though  an 
outlaw,  was  frequently  a  guest  at  Taymouth  Castle.  He  was 
six  feet  four  inches  in  height,  and  Janet  M^Andrew  was  nearly 
six  feet ;  but  so  well  proportioned  was  he  that  he  did  not 
appear  to  be  the  taller.  The  Earl  on  one  occasion  desired 
them  to  stand  up  side  by  side  as  a  specimen  of  the  clan,  that 
the  guests  might  see  the  difference  in  their  stature.  But 
Duncan,  feeling  annoyed,  said  :  "  I  am  not  a  specimen  of  your 

490 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

clan !  though  you  are  the  Earl,  I  am  your  chief,"  and  taking 
his  lady's  arm  he  immediately  quitted  the  banquet-hall. 

When  the  Stewart  cause  became  hopeless,  it  is  said  that 
the  Duke  of  Argyll  and  the  third  Earl,  who,  owing  to  the 
death  of  his  son  Lord  Glenorchy  in  1771,  was  then  childless, 
and  who  made  out  a  new  entail  in  1775,  containing  a  curious 
clause  to  the  effect  that  "  if  he  has  inadvertejitly  omitted  to  call 
as  his  heirs  any  person  or  persons  who  stand  (nearer)  in  the 
line  of  succession  by  the  patent,"  then  let  them  prove  it  in 
due  course  of  law,  used  their  utmost  endeavours  to  prevail 
upon  Duncan  to  submit  to  the  Government,  offering  to 
procure  him  a  full  pardon ;  but  he  sternly  refused,  joined  the 
Prince  abroad,  and  never  returned,  though  his  people 
expected  him  to  the  last.  These  details  are  said  to  explain 
the  concluding  verse  of  the  poet's  Elegy  on  the  third  Earl, 
p.  278,  89-94.  He,  the  last  of  the  Glenorchy  line,  died  in 
Holyrood  House  in  his  86th  year,  on  26th  June  1782  ;  and 
he  was  succeeded,  not  by  "one  of  Patrick's  race,"  but  by  John, 
fourth  Earl,  1762-1834,  the  first  of  the  Mochaster  branch  to 
succeed  to  the  title  and  estates.  He  raised  two  regiments  of 
Fencibles  in  1793,  the  first  of  which  the  poet  joined  the 
same  year.  A  third  battalion  was  raised  in  1795,  of  which 
the  Earl  was  Lieutenant-Colonel.  The  poet  celebrates  him, 
pp.  378-387;  388,  15-22;  412-416;  and  the  regiment,  pp. 
388-391.  The  motto  of  the  family,  «  Follow  me,"  alluded  to 
on  p.  382,  60,  was  assumed  by  Sir  Colin  Campbell,  a  Knight 
Templar  of  Rhodes,  who  was,  in  Gen.  Stewart's  time,  still 
known  as  Cailin  Dubh  na  Roidh,  Black  Colin  of  Rhodes ;  and 
the  family  crest,  a  hoars  head  erased, proper,  was  worn  by  the 
regiment,  and  is  referred  to  on  p.  390,  30. 

p.  62,  15. 

English  swan-shot  came,  it  is  said,  from  Bristol.  A 
similar  phrase,  "  loaded  with  swan  post,"  occurs  in  St  John's 
Wild  Sport  in  tJie  Highlands  oj  Scotland,  p.  282,  ch.  xxxii. 

491 


APPENDIX  III 


66. 


John  Campbell  of  the  Bank  was,  according  to  tradition, 
the  son  of  Colin  of  Ardmaddie,  who  was  the  third  son 
of  the  first  Earl  of  Breadalbane,  and  who  died  at 
London,  31st  March  1708.  He  was  brought  up  by  the 
family  at  Finlarig,  received  a  liberal  education,  and 
became  in  time  a  very  important  person.  It  may  be 
doubted  if  any  man  of  his  day  was  better  known  in 
Perthshire.  He  was  in  every  respect  a  most  admirable 
man.  But  his  memory  has  suffered  somewhat  on  account  of 
his  son,  also  John,  who,  from  having  been  born  in  the  Royal 
Bank  House,  is  sometimes  known  also  as  John  of  the  Bank. 
He  made  rather  a  disastrous  failure,  and  his  memory  is  not 
blessed  in  Breadalbane. 

In  vol.  i.  of  the  Miscellany  of  the  Scottish  History 
Society,  extracts  from  the  business  diary  of  John  Campbell 
are  printed.  He  was  first  a  writer  in  Edinburgh,  and  was 
appointed  in  1732  Assistant  Secretary  of  the  Royal  Bank  of 
Scotland  there.  Two  years  later  he  became  second  cashier, 
and  in  July  1745  was  advanced  to  the  position  of  principal 
cashier  of  the  Bank,  which  he  held  till  his  death  in  1777. 

In  Leaves  from  the  Diary  of  an  Edinburgh  Banker  in 
1745,  from  14th  September  to  23rd  November,  covering  the 
period  of  the  Prince's  occupation  of  the  capital,  a  vivid 
picture  is  given  of  that  stormy  time,  as  well  as  of  the 
cashier's  intimate  relations  with  the  leading  men  and  events 
of  the  day.  He  was  deep  in  the  confidence  of  Breadalbane. 
"Sunday  Qth  October  1745.  No  sermon  in  the  Churches. 
Sent  the  E  of  Breadalbane  the  key  of  his  little  Cabinet  which 
lay  by  me  seald  since  he  fell  ill,  I  say  sent  it  seald  to  his  Lo 
by  my  Sert.  Allick.  Monday  7th  October.  I  wi'ote  to 
Auchdr.  (Achallader)  telling  I  could  not  get  his  Cloaths  out 
of  the  Taylor's  hands.  Saturday  26th  October  1745.  Had 
a  Letter  from  Auchdr.  who  is  a  dying,  dated  22nd." 

492 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

In  a  life  so  full  of  business,  he  appears  to  have  written 
poetry.  A  long  list  of  important  items  on  Monday,  2^th 
October  1745,  concludes  with  the  word  "Poem,"  and  the 
entry  the  following  day,  ends  with  "Poem  continued." 
Monday,  Wth  November  1745,  "  Din'd  at  home  s(olus).  Begun 
to  compose  some  Lines.  Paid  a  visit  at  Mr  Kinloch's. 
Finished  my  composure."  The  "  Cashier,"  a  most  enthusiastic 
Highlander,  helped  pecuniarly  MacPherson  of  Ossian  fame 
to  make  his  journeys  in  the  Highlands  in  search  of  Ossianic 
poetry :  and  he  was  himself  the  means  of  bringing  to  light 
Highland  antiquities.  The  lands  of  Eyeich  or  Ewich,  in 
Strathfillan,  were  part  of  the  possessions  of  the  Dewars  as 
custodians  of  the  Coygerach,  otherwise  the  Quigreach,  and 
this  relic  seems  to  have  been  brought  into  notice  by  John  of 
the  Bank,  for  on  1st  November  1734  the  original  letter  of 
King  James  III.,  confirming  the  custody  of  the  Quigerach 
and  the  lands  to  the  Dewars,  was  presented  by  him  for 
registration  in  the  books  of  Council  and  Session.  He  brought 
to  light  another  interesting  relic,  which  is  now  kept  in  the 
Register  House — a  MS.  elegy  on  Black  Duncan,  written  on  a 
roughly  tanned  calf-skin  which  has  some  of  the  hair 
attaching  to  it.  A  letter  of  the  Earl  of  Breadalbane  to 
him  on  the  birth  of  his  eldest  son  says :  "  I  hear  you  are  to 
begin  at  once  to  teach  him  the  Erse  language  ! " 

He  was  a  man  of  wide  sympathies  and  great  benevolence. 
He  used  to  visit  the  Easdale  district  once  or  twice  a  year  as 
Lord  Breadalbane's  man  of  business.  He  was  a  Baptist, 
according  to  local  tradition  (though  here  the  names  of  father 
and  son  may  be  confused),  and  there  were  several  of  that 
denomination  in  the  district.  It  was  the  custom  on  the  occa- 
sion of  the  visit  for  the  Baptists  to  meet  John  Campbell  at  a 
place  called  Achnacrost.  He  was  very  good  to  them,  helping 
them  in  many  ways,  and  on  these  occasions  handed  a  purse 
of  silver  round  for  each  man  to  help  himself.  One  of  the 
congregation  took  more  than  good  taste  demanded,  that  is, 

493 


APPENDIX  III 

helped  himself  liberally;  but  Ian  Campbell,  instead  of 
rebuking  him,  merely  said,  Is  m6r  V  uireashhuidh,  a  charaid  : 
"  Great  is  thy  need,  my  friend." 

It  is  said  that  he  befriended  Duncan  Ban  the  poet,  who 
out  of  gratitude  composed  the  eulogy,  and  then  asked  a 
poet's  reward  for  his  verses.  "  No,"  said  Mr  Campbell,  who 
was  then  living  at  Auchmore,  '^  What  reward  do  you  deserve 
for  telling  the  truth  }  You  must  confess  that  you  could  say 
no  less  of  me  ;  besides  I  doubt  if  you  are  the  author :  so  to 
convince  me,  let  me  hear  how  you  can  dispraise  me,  and  then 
I  shall  know  whether  you  have  been  able  to  compose  what 
you  have  just  repeated." 

Duncan  Ban  thus  challenged  began  an  easy  flow  of 
depreciation,  which  may  be  regarded  as  a  belated  instance 
of  the  extempore  lampoon  (^glam  dichen?i,  Ir.  T.,  iii.  96)  on  the 
prince  who  refused  the  poet  his  reward,  and  only  one  verse 
of  which  has  reached  the  editor  : 

An  oidhche  bha  mi  an  Tigh  na  Sraid'  * 

Fhuair  mi  tdmailt  a  bha  mdr^ 
Fhuair  mi  strac  de'n  bhata  chaol 

Bho  Iain  claon  an  Achadh  Mhdir, 

''S  ann  bu  choslach  e  hu,  ho  ! 
*S  e  crochadair  «,  hu,  ho  f 

•*  The  night  I  was  in  Tigh  na  Sraid 
I  got  an  insult  that  was  sore, 
I  got  a  stroke  of  the  supple  stick 
From  squinting  Ian  of  Auchmore. 

It  was  like  him,  hoo,  ho  ! 
He's  a  hangman,  hoo,  ho !  " 

Another  version  is  a  parody  of  the  first  line  of  the  eulogy : 
laiti  Chaimheul  a  bhaig,  "John  Campbell  of  the  paunch." 

Tradition  says  that  John  of  the  Bank  hastily  gave  the 
poet  half-a-crown  to  desist. 

*  Killin  Hotel. 
494 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

p.  70,  68. 

Doubling  of  the  Session.  The  Heritors  annually  revised 
the  Kirk  Session  accounts  relating  to  the  poor  in  order  to 
know  for  how  much  to  assess  their  lands  for  the  support  of 
the  poor.  The  old  Parochial  Board  was  a  combination  of 
Elders,  Minister,  and  Heritors.  A  pauper  was  popularly 
said  to  be  "on  the  Session,"  when  he  was  really  on  the 
Heritors'  assessment.  It  is  suggested  that  Campbell 
represented  the  Heritors  on  such  occasions.  More  probably, 
however,  it  refers  to  his  position  as  an  agent  in  the  Law 
Courts.  The  King  was  the  Supreme  Judge,  and  called  in 
a  body  known  as  "King  in  Council."  Afterwards  came  the 
body  of  Judges  "  Sitting  in  Session,"  and  the  combining  of 
the  two  into  the  "Council  and  Session,"  may  well  be 
described  by  the  poet  as  above.  The  body  popularly 
known  as  "  The  Court  of  Session  "  is  in  legal  form  addressed 
as  the  "  Lords  of  Council  and  Session,"  and  issues  all  decrees 
in  that  extended  form.  The  poet  says  in  effect  that 
Campbell  was  a  successful  lawyer  in  the  High  Courts. 

p.  78,  2. 

Torr-a-mhuilt.  "At  the  eastern  end  of  Princes  Street 
were  sprinkled  a  few  cottages  forming  a  sort  of  village  upon 
the  spot  now  occupied  by  the  Register  House,  called 
Multer's,  Mutree's,  or  Mutersie  Hill.  Not  far  from  Multer's 
Hill,  upon  the  spot  now  occupied  by  the  centre  of  the 
Register  House,  stood  a  small  cottage  where  'Curds  and 
Cream  '  and  '  Fruits  in  their  Seasons '  were  sold.  This  little 
comfortable  place  of  entertainment  was  popularly  called 
'Peace-and- Plenty,'  and  was  much  resorted  to  by  a  certain 
class  of  citizens  on  Sunday  evenings,  as  Newhaven,  Porto- 
bello,  and  Duddingston  are  at  this  day."  Traditions  of  Old 
Edinburgh,  i.,  p.  56. 

495 


APPENDIX  III 

p.  78,  13. 

The  reference  is  to  Dr  Joseph  Maclntyre,  a  native  of 
Breadalbane,  born  1736,  minister  of  Glenorchy,  1765-1823. 
His  eldest  daughter  married  Rev.  Dr  Stewart  of  Luss,  the 
poet's  first  editor.     Kirk  Session  Records  of  Glenorchy. 

*'  Dr  Joseph  Maclntyre,  to  whom  the  Bard  alludes,  was 
for  the  long  period  of  fifty-nine  years  the  respected  Minister 
of  this  Parish,  and  who  was,  no  doubt,  dear  to  the  Poet  by 
many  ties,  and  not  the  least  of  which  was  his  being  in  all 
probability  the  official  who  united  the  Bard  in  the  honourable 
bands  of  matrimony  to  the  far-famed  Maire  bhan  og." 
Speech  of  Rev.  Donald  M'Collf  Minister  of  the  Parish,  at  the 
Festival,  1859. 

He  was  in  many  ways  a  remarkable  man,  and  is  still 
remembered  in  tradition,  especially  in  connection  with  the 
young  and  the  countenance  he  lent  them  in  their  sports.  If 
tradition  speaks  truly,  the  opening  psalm  of  the  church 
service  would  serve  the  purpose  of  its  original  inception  to 
apprise  them  that  the  service  was  about  to  begin,  and  to  draw 
them  away  from  field  sports  into  the  sacred  building.  One 
of  his  epithets  is  quoted  at  this  day.  Preaching  once  on  the 
immensity  of  the  ocean,  he  caused  no  small  sensation  among 
the  Loch  Awe  people  by  asserting  that  their  Loch  was  in 
comparison  but  Liih  an  diinain,  the  midden  pool. 

A  marble  tablet  is  erected  to  his  memory  within  the 
Parish  Church,  and  close  to  the  pulpit  which  he  filled  so 
worthily  and  so  long. 

p.  82,  1-8. 

The  translation  of  this  stanza  occurs  in  M.  C.  Clark's 
Birthday  Book,  p.  117. 

p.  98,  1. 

Duncan  Campbell  was  a  captain  in  the  Argyllshire 
Militia  during  the  troubles  of  1745.     After  the   battle  of 

496 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

CuUoden,  he  was  sent  with  a  company  of  soldiers  to  punish 
the  "rebels"  in  the  Catholic  districts  of  Moidart  and 
Arisaig.  In  this  unpleasant  situation,  he  behaved  with 
moderation  and  forbearance  to  the  poor  Highlanders, 
and,  besides  gaining  applause  from  all  the  people  in  that 
country,  he  has  been  rewarded  with  the  unfading  praises 
of  the  two  great  contemporary  poets,  Macdonald  and 
Maclntyre.  The  former  says  that  Campbell  refused  to 
execute  the  severe  orders  of  the  "Butcher." 

'*  Cha  chuireadh  e'n  gniomh  an  t-ordugh 
Bha  fo'n  fheoladair  'na  phaten." 

Mr  Campbell  was  appointed  captain  of  the  City  Guard 
of  Edinburgh  in  1751 ;  he  died  in  1774.  James  Mor, 
son  of  Rob  Roy  MacGregor,  writing  from  Dunkirk 
on  12th  June  1753,  requesting  money  to  enable  him 
to  apprehend  Allan  Breck  Stewart  for  the  murder  of 
Colin  Campbell  of  Glenure,  says,  "if  anything  is  sent  me 
let  it  be  sent  as  if  it  were  from  my  brother-in-law,  Nicol, 
by  the  hands  of  Captain  Duncan  Campbell  of  the  City  Guard, 
Edinburgh,  who  knows  my  direction."  And  in  a  letter 
dated  1st  May  1754,  the  same  writer  states:  "The  way  and 
manner  I  procured  the  license  to  return  to  Great  Britain 
was  this,  Capt.  Duncan  Campbell,  who  is  nephew  to 
Glengyle,  and  my  near  relation,  wrote  me  in  June  last  about 
Allan  Breck  Stewart,  and  inquired  if  there  were  any 
possibility  of  getting  him  delivered  in  any  part  of  England, 
that  if  I  could  be  of  use  in  the  matter  that  1  might  expect 
my  own  pardon."  On  4th  September  1759,  the  Earl  of 
Breadalbane  wrote  to  John  Campbell,  cashier  of  the  Royal 
Bank,  that  Captain  Duncan  "  begs  me  to  name  his  son  who 
is  in  the  Dutch  service  for  a  Lieutenant  (^?  in  Keith  and 
Campbell's  Highlanders).  I  have  heard  him  much  com- 
mended but  have  the  same  objection  about  his  not  being 
able  to  procure  twenty-five  men."  John  Campbell  of 
Achallader,  writing    to  the    cashier   on    23rd   April   1774, 

497  2  1 


APPENDIX  III 

says,  "The  late  Captain  Duncan  of  the  Town  Guard  was 
of  the  Achlines  "  (Campbells  of  Auchlyne),  "  but  of  which 
of  them  I  know  not.  The  Capt.  left  two  sons,  viz. : — Lieut. 
Alex.  Campbell,  Peter  Campbell.  N.B.  Captain  Duncan's 
widow,  who  now  resides  in  Edinburgh,  can  probably  give 
the  best  account  of  him  and  his  offspring."  Captain  Duncan 
Campbell,  late  one  of  the  captains  of  the  City  Guard  of 
Edinburgh,  left  household  furniture  and  persona]  effects 
valued  at  £45,  19s.  9Jd.  His  widow  was  appointed  executrix 
on  2nd  March  1774.  Defunct  was  also  Keeper  of  the 
Wardrobe  in  the  Abbey  of  Holyrood  House.  The  poet, 
Robert  Fergusson,  refers  to  him  thus : — 

Nunc  est  bibendum  et  bendere  bickerum  magnum, 

Cavete  Town  Guardum,  Dugal  Geddum,  atque  CampbeUum. 

Dougal  was  a  short,  stout  man.  Campbell  his  comrade 
was  a  tall,  slender,  solemn  man  and  wore  a  brigadier  wig, 
i.e.,  a  wig  with  three  tails,  the  middle  one  tied  with  a  black 
ribbon.     Traditions  of  Old  Edinburgh,  i.,  49. 

p.  112. 

According  to  tradition  this  poem,  To  the  Tailor,  is  the 
only  one  which  the  poet  regretted  having  composed.  One 
of  the  editor's  informants,  having  assured  him  of  this,  recited 
several  stanzas  of  it  with  great  gusto ;  and  as  he  was  an 
excellent  man  and  much  respected,  it  was  felt  that  all  hope 
of  bowdlerising  the  poet  was  gone.  Perhaps,  if  the  poet's 
conscience  troubled  him,  it  might  be  in  connection  with  the 
following  facts : — 

In  a  note  entitled  "Glenaros,  22nd  March  1871, 
Information  regarding  Rev.  D.  M'Nicol,  furnished  by  Dr 
Duncan  M'Coll,  Salen,  the  late  Ludovic  Cameron,  Esq.," 
the  minister's  lineal  representative,  writes  that  "M'Nicol 
greatly  assisted  Duncan  Ban  in  getting  his  poetry  into 
shape.     Duncan  took  his  wife  to  Lismore  and  lived  there 

498 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

for  months,  working  with  M'Nicol  at  the  poems,  and 
making  journeys  to  obtain  subscriptions.  They  quarrelled 
at  last  regarding  a  poem.  The  Tailor,  which  Duncan  insisted 
on  inserting  contrary  to  the  minister's  wishes,  and  this 
severance  delayed  the  production  of  the  work  for  more 
than  a  year."     M'N. 

The  name  of  Rev.  Donald  M'Nicol,  who  was  minister  at 
Lismore  from  1766  to  1802,  appears  in  both  of  the  sub- 
scription lists,  notwithstanding  the  alleged  quarrel.  He 
was  a  man  of  some  learning,  with  the  reputation  of 
having  been  a  poet.  His  Remarks  on  Dr  Johnsons  Journey 
to  the  Hebrides,  London,  1799,  came  under  the  eye  of  the 
great  moralist,  who  at  the  perusal  is  said  to  have  "  growled 
hideously." 

p.  122. 

Captain  Archibald  Campbell,  brother  of  Campbell  of 
Achallader,  was  recommended  by  Breadalbane  for  Keith's  and 
Campbell's  Highlanders,  or  the  old  87th  and  88th  Regi- 
ments. He  distinguished  himself  in  rescuing,  with  a  party 
of  Highlanders,  General  Griffin,  afterwards  Lord  Howard  of 
Walden,  at  Closter  Camp — bldr  Champaidh — from  a  strong 
detachment  of  the  enemy.  For  this  gallant  action  he  was 
promoted  to  the  rank  of  major,  but  he  did  not  long  enjoy  his 
advancement,  being  killed  a  week  after  in  the  Battle  of 
Fellinghausen,  15th  July  1761,  when  Broglie  defeated  Prince 
Ferdinand,  cf.  Keltic,  ii.,  475  et  seq. 

Achallader  himself  was  in  his  day  more  famous  than  his 
military  brother.  Lord  Littleton,  asked  what  he  had  seen 
in  Scotland,  gave  his  opinion  at  some  length  and  concluded : 
"  But  of  all  I  saw  or  heard,  few  things  excited  my  surprise 
more  than  the  learning  and  talents  of  Mr  Campbell  of 
Achallader,  factor  to  Lord  Breadalbane.  Born  and  resident 
in  the  Highlands,  I  have  seldom  seen  a  more  accomplished 
gentleman  with  more  general  and  classical  learning." 
Sketches  of  the  Highlanders,  p.  189,  note. 

499 


APPENDIX  III 

Lady  Glenorchy  of  pious  memory  was  greatly  vexed  with 
herself  at  losing  her  temper  in  argument  with  him  upon 
faith  and  kindred  topics.  In  her  Diary,  11th  May  1768,  she 
says :  "  This  morning  I  awoke  with  a  great  desire  to  praise 
God  for  his  mercies ;  but  my  lips  were  sealed,  I  could  not 
utter  what  I  felt.  At  breakfast  I  renewed  the  argument 
upon  faith  with  Auchalladear,  and  was  led  away  by  the 
impetuosity  of  my  temper  to  say  what  I  did  not  at  first 
intend,  and  some  things  that  savoured  too  much  of 
Antinomianism.  In  the  course  of  the  argument  I  felt  much 
carnal  pride  and  self-applause  in  my  heart,  and  I  did  not 
apply  as  I  ought  to  have  done  to  the  Holy  Spirit  for  his 
assistance.  This  I  take  to  be  the  reason  why  I  was  left  to 
fall  into  error."     Life  of  Lady  Glenorchy ,  p.  113. 

p.  128,89-96. 

This  and  other  passages  of  the  poem  describe  a  state  of 
matters  in  which  Achallader  himself  was  the  central  figure  : 
"  During  fifty-five  years  in  which  the  late  Mr  Campbell  of 
Achallader  had  the  charge  of  Lord  Breadalbane's  estate,  no 
instance  occurred  of  tenants  going  to  law.  Their  disputes 
were  referred  to  the  amicable  decision  of  the  noble  proprietor 
and  his  deputy ;  and  as  the  confidence  of  the  people  in  the 
honour  and  probity  of  both  was  unlimited,  no  man  ever 
dreamed  of  an  appeal  from  their  decision."  Sketches,  p.  57, 
note. 

"  Such  was  the  mutual  confidence  and  such  the  honour- 
able manner  in  which  business  was  conducted,  that  no  receipt 
for  rent  was  ever  asked.  An  account  was  opened  for  every 
tenant,  and  when  the  rent  was  paid,  Achallader  put  the 
initials  of  his  name  below  the  sum  credited.  This  was 
sufficient  receipt  for  upwards  of  eleven  hundred  sums  paid 
by  that  number  of  tenants  under  his  charge."     p.  275,  note. 

This  was  not  the  course  followed  in  every  case.  A  corre- 
spondent writes  that  he  has  receipts  covering  the  whole  period. 

500 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 


p.  130. 

Colin  Campbell  of  Glenure,  in  Appin,  was  the  elder  brother 
of  Duncan,  laird  of  Barcaldine,  who  was  Sheriff-Substitute 
for  Perthshire  at  Killin,  and  who,  after  the  Disarming  Act, 
greatly  protected  the  Highlanders  when  they  were  brought 
before  him.  Colin  was  the  eldest  son  of  Patrick  Campbell  of 
Barcaldine  and  Glenure  by  his  second  wife,  Lucy,  daughter 
of  Sir  Ewan  Cameron  of  Lochiel.  He  had  been  an  officer  in 
Loudon's  Highlanders,  and  was  appointed  factor  for  Govern- 
ment on  the  forfeited  estates  of  Locheil  and  Ardsheil ;  and 
on  14th  May  1752  he  was  shot  dead  by  an  unseen  assassin 
as  he  passed  through  the  wood  of  Lettermore,  after 
crossing  the  ferry  of  Ballachulish.  A  gentleman  named 
James  Stewart,  a  natural  brother  of  Ardsheil,  the  forfeited 
person,  was  tried  as  being  accessory  to  the  murder,  and 
condemned  and  executed  upon  very  doubtful  evidence ;  the 
heaviest  part  of  which  only  amounted  to  this,  that  the 
accused  person  assisted  a  nephew  of  his  own,  Allan  Breck 
Stewart,  with  money  to  escape  after  the  deed  was  done. 
Allan  always  denied  that  he  fired  the  fatal  shot.  It  is  said 
that  the  actual  assassin,  whose  name  is  a  secret  known  to  a 
very  few,  was  prevented  from  coming  forward  at  the  trial 
lest  his  confession  should  involve  others  in  his  doom.  Mr 
Campbell  left  a  widow,  Janet,  daughter  to  the  Hon.  Hugh 
Mackay  of  Bighouse,  in  Sutherlandshire,  son  of  George, 
third  Lord  Reay ;  and  three  daughters,  one  of  whom  was 
afterwards  married  to  George  Mackay  of  Bighouse,  and 
survived  till  1834.  They  had  twenty-one  children.  Her 
portrait  was  painted  by  Raeburn.  The  second  died  young. 
The  third,  who  was  born  posthumously,  was  married  to  James 
Baillie,  M.P.  A  portrait  of  her  husband,  herself  and  her 
family,  called  the  "  Baillie  Family,"  by  Gainsborough,  is  in 
the  National  Gallery,  London.  The  elegy  was  composed  by 
the  poet  in  his  tenderest  vein  immediately  after  the  murder. 

501 


APPENDIX  III 

As  he  calls  the  victim  his  foster-brother,  it  is  regarded  as 
probable  that  Campbell  had  been  nursed  by  Duncan  Ban's 
mother. 

p.  142. 

Anno  decimo  nono  Georgii  II.  cap.  xxxix. 

The  Act  for  securing  the  peace  of  the  Highlands  .  .  . 
quotes  the  Act  of  1st  November  1716,  which  provides  .  .  .  that 
it  shall  not  be  lawful  for  any  person  .  .  .  north  of  the  water 
of  Leven  or  of  the  river  Forth  ...  to  have  in  his  custody, 
use,  or  bear  broadsword  or  target,  poignard,  whinger  or 
durk,  side  pistol,  gun,  or  other  warlike  weapon.  It  re-enacts 
the  terms  in  1746  with  a  penalty  for  not  delivering  arms. 
Every  such  person  or  persons  so  convicted  shall  forfeit  the 
sum  of  fifteen  pounds  sterling,  and  shall  be  committed  to 
prison  until  payment  of  the  said  sum,  and  if  any  person  shall 
refuse  payment  within  one  calendar  month,  he,  if  fit  to  serve 
his  Majesty  as  a  soldier,  shall  be  delivered  over  to  his  Majesty's 
officers  to  serve  in  any  of  his  Majesty's  forces  in  America. 

XVII.  And  be  it  further  enacted  .  .  .  that  from  and 
after  1st  August  1747  no  man  or  boy  within  that  part  of 
Great  Britain  called  Scotland  .  .  .  shall  on  any  pretence 
whatever  wear  or  put  on  the  clothes  commonly  called 
Highland  clothes,  that  is  to  say  plaid,  philebeg,  or  little 
kilt,  trowse,  shoulder  belts,  or  any  part  whatsoever  of  what 
peculiarly  belongs  to  the  Highland  garb  ;  and  that  no  tartan 
or  party-coloured  plaid  or  stuff  shall  be  used  for  great  coats 
or  for  upper  coats,  and  if  any  such  person  shall  presume 
after  the  said  first  day  of  August  to  wear  or  put  on  the  afore- 
said garments  or  any  part  of  them,  every  such  person  .  .  . 
shall  suffer  imprisonment  without  bail  during  the  space  of 
six  months  and  no  longer ;  and  being  convicted  of  a  second 
offence  .  .  .  shall  be  liable  to  be  transported  to  any  of  his 
Majesty's  plantations  beyond  the  seas  there  to  remain  for 
the  space  of  seven  years. 

The  oath  administered  in  1747  and  1749  at  Fort  WilUam 
50? 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

and  other  places  where  people  assembled  to  take  it,  was  in 
the  following  terms,  the  recusants  being  treated  as  rebels  : — 

I,  A.  B.,  do  swear,  and  as  I  shall  answer  to  God  at  the 
great  day  of  judgment,  I  have  not,  nor  shall  have,  in  my 
possession  any  gun,  sword,  pistol,  or  arm  whatever,  and 
never  use  tartan,  plaid,  or  any  part  of  the  Highland  garb ; 
and  if  I  do,  may  I  be  cursed  in  my  undertaking,  family,  and 
property — may  I  never  see  my  wife  and  children,  father, 
mother,  relations — may  I  be  killed  in  battle  as  a  coward,  and 
be  without  Christian  burial  in  a  strange  land,  far  from  the 
graves  of  my  forebears  and  kindred ;  may  this  come  across 
me  if  I  break  my  oath. 

As  an  illustration  of  the  spirit  in  which  the  law  was 
enforced,  the  poet,  it  is  said,  was  himself  imprisoned  for 
publishing  this  poem ;  but  he  was,  through  the  good  offices 
of  Breadalbane,  soon  liberated. 

In  1782,  through  the  influence  of  the  Marquis  of  Graham 
and  Lord  Lovat,  as  the  poet  states  (284,  85 ;  338,  51),  it  was 
enacted :  That  so  much  of  the  Acts  above  mentioned  or  any 
other  Act  or  Acts  of  Parliament,  as  restrains  the  use  of  the 
Highland  Dress,  be,  and  the  same  are  hereby  repealed. 

A  curious  Proclamation,  unsigned  and  undated,  but 
referring  to  the  above  events,  runs : — 

Esdi  Fherihh. 

Ha  sho  cuir  am  follis  do  Chlan  nan  Gael  gu  leir,  gun  chuir 
Ri  agus  Par  lament  Bhrettuin  crioch,  gu  brack,  air  'n  Act  'n  aogi 
*n  Aotich  Ghaelich,  thainic  sios  do  na  Finacha,  o  thoisach  an 
t'shaoil,  gu  Blian  1746.  Cha  nfhaod  so  gun  moran  solas  a  thort 
do  na  K  uile  Cri  Gaelich  ;  o  nack  eil  shibh,  nas  faidde  ceangailte 
le  eidibh  mhidhuinail  nan  Gal.  Ha  sho  cuir  'm  Jollis  do  na  h' 
uil  Duine,  og  agus  sken,  losal  agus  uasal  gum  faoid  iad  'n  debh 
so  cuir  orra  agus  Cai,  'n  Truas  'm  Feilebeg,  'n  Cota  agus, 
an  <*OssAN  Gar  mail  ri  Breachan  'm  Feligh  gu'n  fhegal  Lao 
na  Riochd  na  gaulas  naidin. 

5^3 


APPENDIX  III 

"  Oyes,  Men  ! 

"  This  proclaims  to  all  the  Children  of  the  Highlanders 
that  the  King  and  Parliament  of  Britain  have  put  an  end 
for  ever  to  the  Act  against  the  Highland  Garb,  which  has 
come  down  to  the  Clans  from  the  beginning  of  the  world  to 
the  year  1746.  This  cannot  but  give  great  joy  to  every 
Highland  heart,  since  ye  are  no  longer  bound  with  the 
unmanly  garments  of  the  Lowlanders.  This  proclaims  to 
every  person,  young  and  old,  high  and  low,  that  they  may 
hereafter  put  on  and  wear  the  Trews,  the  Little  Kilt,  the 
Coat,  and  the  Short  Hose,  along  with  the  Belted  Plaid 
without  fear  of  the  Law  of  the  Realm  or  malice  of 
enemies." 

p.  206. 

Iseabal  Og  was  granddaughter  to  Robert,  son  of 
Campbell  of  Barcaldine,  tenant  in  Clashghour.  Iseabal's 
mother  having  died  in  giving  her  birth,  she  was  nursed  by 
Duncan  Ban's  wife.  On  growing  up,  she  ran  away  with  one 
M'Innes,  son  to  the  innkeeper  at  Kingshouse,  Blackmount, 
with  whom  she  was  united  in  wedlock,  and  afterwards  went 
to  New  York.     So  says  local  tradition. 

p.  208,  20. 

The  great  Clan  CoUa  fought  on  the  right  wing  of  the 
Highland  army,  having  received  that  position,  it  is  said,  from 
King  Robert  Bruce  at  Bannockburn.  Not  having  got  that 
place,  they  kept  themselves  aloof  at  CuUoden. 

p.  208,  31. 

The  "  Fair  of  the  King,"  Feill  De6rsa,  was  held  at  Killin 
on  5th  May,  and  is  the  commemoration  of  St  George,  Ap.  24 
O.S.  {Felire  (Engusay  Locally  it  is  generally  supposed  to 
commemorate  one  of  the  Hanoverian  Georges,  and  the  poet 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

may  have  fallen  into  this  error ;  or  he  may  refer  to  a 
Jaidhir  Tigk  an  Righ,  held  till  lately  at  King's  House,  Bal- 
quhidder,  in  August. 

p.  266,  9. 

Lord  Frederick  Campbell,  third  son  of  John  Campbell, 
fourth  Duke  of  Argyle,  was  Lord- Register  for  Scotland, 
representative  in  Parliament  for  the  Shire  of  Argyll,  and  one 
of  his  Majesty's  Privy  Council.  He  married  the  Lady 
Dowager  Ferrars. 

The  Argyll  or  Western  Regiment  of  Fencibles  was 
raised  partly  by  him  in  Argyllshire,  and  partly  by  the  Earl 
of  Eglington  about  Glasgow  and  the  South-west  of  Scotland. 
The  regiment  was  embodied  at  Glasgow  in  April  1778,  and 
reduced  at  the  same  place  in  1783. 

p.  308. 

The  chiefs  of  the  Maclntyres  possessed  the  estate  of 
Glenoe  from  about  1300  till  1810,  and  were  connected 
with  many  of  the  leading  Highland  families.  Owing  to 
the  loss  of  their  family  papers,  the  oldest  authentic  record 
is  found  on  a  tombstone  in  Ardchattan  Priory,  dated  1695, 
which  Duncan  Maclntyre,  then  chief,  made  for  himself, 
*'his  spous  Mary  Campbell,  and  their  successors." 
Accounts  of  the  origin  of  the  clan  name  (which  is  probably 
ecclesiastical,  Mac  an  tsair,  abbot  of  Eanach  Dubh,  died  in 
762,  according  to  the  Four  Masters)  are  so  old  as  to  be 
mythical.  One  account  is  found  in  Collectanea  de  Rebus 
Albanicisj  p.  238.  Another  is  similar  to  that  given  in  the 
poem,  save  that  the  name  was  Saor  na-h-ordaig,  the  Thumb 
Carpenter.  A  third  is  contained  in  Folk  Tales  and  Fairi, 
Lore,  p.  198,  in  some  versions  of  which  the  fairy  element  is 
absent,  and  the  Chief  travels  from  his  native  Sleat,  follow- 
ing the  cow,  till  she  settled  in  a  spot  in  Glenoe,  known  to 
this  day  as  Ldrach  na  bd  baine,  the  Site  of  the  White  Cow. 


APPENDIX  III 

The  lands  were  held  of  Breadalbane  by  the  annual  payment 
of  a  snowball  in  summer  from  Ben  Cruachan,  and  a  white 
fatted  calf  reared  on  the  land,  which  was  delivered  over 
a  stone  at  the  upper  end  of  Glenoe,  still  called  Clach  an 
laoigk  bkiata,  the  stone  of  the  fatted  calf.  The  chief 
foolishly  consented  to  commute  that  tenure  for  a  money 
payment,  which  was  gradually  so  increased  that  he  found 
it  impossible  to  live  on  the  land.  An  opportunity,  it  is  said, 
once  presented  itself  to  free,  and  even  augment  the  estate. 
One  of  the  chiefs,  a  man  of  tact  and  wisdom,  being  con- 
sulted by  Breadalbane  on  a  delicate  matter  connected  with 
the  boundary  line  of  the  latter's  third  of  the  lands  of  the 
old  Stewarts  of  Lorn,  managed  the  business  so  successfully 
that  Breadalbane  offered  him  any  part  of  the  adjacent  land 
that  he  might  choose.  Glenoe  replied  that  he  did  not 
wish  for  any  reward,  but  was  content  with  his  own  little 
green  glen.  When  Breadalbane  was  on  his  death-bed,  he 
recalled  the  incident,  remarking  in  Gaelic :  Bu  ghorack  am 
fear  a  gheall,  ack  bu  sheachd  goraiche  am  fear  a  dhiiilt  : 
"  The  man  who  made  the  offer  was  a  fool,  but  the  man  that 
refused  it  was  a  seven  times  greater  fool." 

James  Maclntyre,  1727-1799,  the  chief  here  referred  to, 
was  son  of  Donald,  son  of  Duncan,  who  made  the  tombstone. 
He  was  a  scholar  and  a  poet,  studied  law  but  gave  it  up  on 
the  death  of  his  father  to  take  charge  of  Glenoe.  He 
wished  to  "rise"  in  1745,  but  was  restrained  by  the 
Breadalbane  influence.  He  married  Ann,  daughter  of 
Duncan  Campbell  of  Barcaldine  and  niece  of  Colin  Campbell 
of  Glenure,  who  was  shot  in  1752. 

When  Duncan  Ban  visited  Glenoe,  he  was  shown  the 
old  seal  bearing  the  arms  of  his  clan.  It  is  still  in  the 
family,  being  in  the  possession  of  Duncan  Maclntyre, 
Edinburgh,  whose  grandmother  was  Jean,  fifth  daughter 
of  James,  the  poet's  chief,  and  through  whose  kindness  the 
editor  has  been  favoured  with  an  impression  of  the  seal. 

5of5 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 


p.  356,  1-4. 

Versions  of  this  quatrain,  which  is  probably  an  old  Love- 
charm^  will  be  found  in  Carmina  Gadelica,  ii.,  38,  40,  41. 


p.  360,  32. 

Rev.  Dugald  Campbell,  here  referred  to,  was  minister  of 
the  united  parish  of  Kilfinichen  and  Kilvickeon,  of  which  Zona 
then  formed  a  part.  It  was  his  duty  to  preach  there  every 
six  weeks,  and  probably  the  congregation  met  in  the 
Cathedral,  the  roof  of  which  was  in  part  still  intact.  On  one 
of  these  occasions  the  poet  heard  him  preach.  Mr  Campbell 
had  been  missionary  at  Moidart  before  his  induction  to  the 
Mull  parish  in  1779.  On  his  tombstone  in  Kilvickeon 
Churchyard  is  this  inscription  : 

"  Sacred  to  the  memory  of  the  Rev.  Dugald  Campbell, 
A.M.,  minister  of  this  parish,  who  died  21st  April  1824,  in  the 
78th  year  of  his  age  and  the  52nd  of  his  ministry,  and 
Elizabeth  Campbell,  his  wife,  daughter  of  Donald  Campbell, 
Esq.,  of  DunstafFnage,  who  died  2Jst  July  1836,  in  the  71st 
year  of  her  age.  This  humble  tribute  to  their  memory  is 
placed  here  by  their  family,  in  token  of  affection  and  grateful 
remembrance  of  their  many  amiable  qualities  and  of  their 
sterling  Christian  character.  Also  of  their  eldest  son 
Donald,  born  17th  November  1786.  He  succeeded  his  father 
as  minister  of  this  parish,  and  died  15th  August  1855. 
Humble,  pious,  and  charitable  in  word  and  deed,  his  memory 
is  cherished  by  an  attached  people." 

A  second  son,  Dugald  Neil,  was  admitted  minister  of  lona, 
1829 ;  and  in  1835  was  inducted  to  Kilmore  and  Kilbride, 
where  he  died.  His  two  other  sons  became  doctors  of  medi- 
cine, and  died,  one  in  India,  the  other  in  Australia.  He 
had  four  daughters.  A  headstone  in  Kilvickeon  bears  the 
legend : 

507 


APPENDIX  III 

"  Sacred  to  the  memory  of  Hester,  youngest  daughter  of 
the  late  Rev.  Dugald  Campbell,  minister  of  this  parish,  died 
20th  June  1847.  Aged  48.  This  in  grateful  remembrance 
of  her  pious  and  amiable  qualities  is  placed  here  by  her 
surviving  sisters  Annie  and  Elizabeth." 

A  tradition  still  current  in  Mull  says  that  Hester  was  one 
of  those  presented  to  George  IV.  when  he  visited  Edinburgh 
in  1822. 

p.  368,  28. 

The  king  who  ordained  free  pasture  for  goats  in  Strath- 
fillan  was  Robert  Bruce.  Having  escaped  from  the  field  of 
Dal  Righ,  he  fled  some  distance  and  rested  the  first  night  in 
a  goat-herd's  hut  (the  traditional  name  of  which  is  Airigh 
Mhor),  and  fed  on  such  fare  as  the  place  afforded.  He  was 
so  pleased  with  the  goats'  milk,  the  cleanliness  of  the  hut,  and 
its  immunity  from  goats'  hair,  that  when  he  came  to  his  king- 
dom he  promulgated  the  order  in  the  text. 

p.  394. 

The  reference  is  to  the  Breadalbane  Fencibles. 

The  1st  Battalion  ^as  embodied  on  1st  March  1793,  and 
the  attestation  of  recruits  extended  over  March  and  April. 
In  the  ranks  were  five  of  the  name  of  Duncan  Maclntyre, 
who  were  attested  on  9th  and  27th  March,  and  on  19th, 
24th,  and  25th  April.  One  was  promoted  Corporal  on  23rd 
March  1796.  One  Corporal  and  one  Private,  Duncan 
Maclntyre,  were  serving  when  the  regiment  was  disbanded 
at  Fort  George  on  18th  April  1799.  The  Battalion  while 
embodied  was  quartered  in  Aberdeen,  March  1794  ;  Glasgow, 
August  1794;  Falkirk,  March  1795;  Ayr,  March  1796; 
Banff,  September  1796  ;  Aberdeen,  April  1798;  Fort  George, 
April  1799. 

The  2nd  Battalion  was  embodied  1st  March  1793.  Two 
Duncan  Maclntyres  in  the  ranks  were  attested,  on  10th  and 

508 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

18th  March  1793.  One  of  them  was  promoted  Corporal 
24th  February  1795,  when  a  number  of  Sergeants  and 
Corporals  from  this  Battalion  volunteered  for  service  in  the 
3rd  Battalion.  He  was  further  promoted  Sergeant  on  8th 
July  1798  in  Captain  and  Adjutant  Roy's  Company,  and 
transferred  to  Captain  Archibald  Campbell's  Company  on 
25th  July  1798,  when  they  were  stationed  at  Ayr. 

The  regiment  was  quartered  in  Dumfries,  December 
1793;  Dundee,  July  1794;  Banff,  November  1794;  Aber- 
deen, June  1795  to  July  1796;  Dundee,  August  1796; 
Edinburgh,  March  1797  to  March  1798;  Kirkcaldy,  March 
1798;  Glasgow,  June  1798;  whence  it  marched  to  Ayr, 
arriving  there  550  strong  on  30th  June  1798. 

By  the  embarkation  return  260  men  volunteered  for 
service  in  Ireland,  and  embarked  at  Port  Patrick  for 
Donaghadee  on  12th  September  1798. 

By  order  of  Major  -  General  Drummond  each  non- 
commissioned officer  and  private  who  volunteered  received 
one  guinea  and  a  half. 

The  Earl  of  Breadalbane  was  in  active  command  in 
October  1798,  when  he  certified  to  the  correctness  of  the 
regimental  accounts. 

The  men  who  did  not  volunteer  for  service  in  Ireland 
were  stationed  at  Beith  and  Irvine,  and  it  was  here  the 
regiment  was  disbanded  on  18th  April  1799. 

This  explains  the  reference  to  those  who  did  not 
volunteer,  p.  396,  29-36,  and  makes  clear  that  Drochaid- 
duinn  was  Brig  o'  Doon,  p.  394,  2. 

In  every  recent  account  of  his  life  it  is  stated  that  the  poet 
rose  to  the  rank  of  Sergeant  in  the  Fencibles,  and  therefore 
did  not  belong  to  the  1st  Battalion.  The  statement  seems 
unfounded  for  the  following  reasons  : — 

1.  The  discharge  here  printed  has  never  left  the  family, 
and  is  still  in  possession  of  the  descendants  of  his 
son-in-law,  Dr  MacNaughton  of  Killin. 
509 


APPENDIX  III 

2.  The   rumour   that   he  was    Sergeant  is  not   recorded 

till  1848. 

3.  There  is  no  indication  that  he  ever  was  in  Ireland. 

4.  The  first  lines  of  the  Song  to  the  Camp,  p.  394,  2,  do 

not   suggest   that   he    was  himself  at   or  near  Brig 
o'  Doon. 

5.  The   report   of  the    Gazette,  p.   392,  5,   reached   him 

at  Peterhead.     The  1st  Battalion  was  then  stationed 
at  Aberdeen. 

6.  He  was  notoriously  unpunctual,  and  not  such  stuff  as 

Sergeants  are  made  of. 

Probably  the  wish  to  enhance  the  character  and  reputa- 
tion of  one  so  unrivalled  in  his  true  sphere  originated  the 
story,  as  it  gave  rise  to  another  similar  legend  that  he  was 
an  elder  in  the  Gaelic  Church  in  Edinburgh.  The  only 
authority  for  this  statement  is  a  pencil  jotting  on  a  board  of 
the  Kirk  Session  Minute  Book.  After  the  names  of  some  of 
the  ministers  between  1800  and  1837  are  given,  follow  the 
words  : 

"  1799  James  MacLauchlan  (father  of  Dr  MacLauchlan, 
Duncan  Ban  a  member  of  his  and  Elder)." 

One  of  his  kith  and  name  assured  the  editor  that  further 
research  in  this  direction  might  be  discontinued,  as  it  was 
destined  to  be  fruitless,  Duncan's  gifts  not  being  of  the  kind 
that  lead  to  Church  eldership.  A  hasty  examination  of  the 
S.P.C.K.  records  disclosed  lists  of  the  Kirk  Session  during 
the  poet's  time,  but  his  name  was  not  included. 

p.  394,  7. 

General  Alexander  Leith  Hay,  a  very  distinguished 
officer  in  his  day,  was  in  1797,  and  for  some  years  subse- 
quently, one  of  the  four  Major-Generals  on  the  Staff  in 
Scotland.  In  that  capacity  he  reviewed  the  Perth  Volunteers 
in  July  1797.     Born  in  1758,  he  succeeded,  as  Alexander 


\ 


HISTORICAL  AND  EXPLANATORY  NOTES 

Leith,  to  Leith  Hall,  on  his  elder  brother's  death  in  1768. 
He  served  in  the  61st  Regiment  of  Foot  as  Ensign,  1772, 
and  Lieutenant,  1776;  in  the  81st  Aberdeenshire  High- 
landers as  Captain,  1777,  and  Major,  1782;  in  the  104th 
Foot  as  Lieutenant-Colonel,  1783,  when  the  regiment  was 
disbanded  and  he  was  put  on  half  pay.  On  the  death  of  his 
relative,  Andrew  Hay  of  Rannes,  he  inherited  that  estate, 
and  from  1790  onwards  he  appears  as  Alexander  Leith  Hay. 
He  was  commissioned  Brevet-Colonel,  and  Colonel  of  the 
109th,  "The  Aberdeenshire"  or  «  Hay's  Regiment,"  in  1794. 
It  was  disbanded  in  1795,  and  he  retired  on  full  pay  in  1796. 
He  became  Major  -  General  the  same  year,  Lieutenant- 
General  in  1803,  and  General  in  1813.  He  died  at  Fetter- 
near  House,  10th  May  1838. 

p.  406,  105. 

The  Black  Watch  with  ten  regiments  embarked  for 
Barbadoes  in  1761,  there  to  join  an  armament  against 
Martinique  and  Havana.  This  movement  of  Highland 
troops  would  no  doubt  fix  the  poet's  attention  on  the  place  as 
a  centre  of  slavery.  Over  8000  Irish  were  sent  there  as  slaves 
in  Cromwell's  time. 

p.  406,  1. 

There  is  a  tradition  regarding  the  composition  of  The 
Last  Farewell,  that  he  made  it  seated  on  a  stone  opposite 
Annat,  less  than  a  mile  upstream  from  the  Railway  Viaduct 
in  Auch  Glen ;  and  further,  that  the  bard  could  not  finish  the 
song  owing  to  the  extreme  agitation  he  experienced  on 
beholding  again  the  scenes  of  his  youth  and  early  manhood, 
and  that  he  was  assisted  to  complete  it  by  his  brother 
Malcolm.  The  latter  is  also  mentioned  as  one  of  those  who, 
at  least  in  his  earlier  days,  sympathised  with  the  view  that 
Duncan  was  a  burraidh  (blockhead)  and  a  ne'er-do-weel. 
This  will  serve  to  explain  the  point  of  the  following  anec- 


APPENDIX  m 

dotes.  On  the  occasion  of  a  dog-trial  (^feuchainn  chon), 
Duncan  loudly  sounded  the  praises  of  his  own  dog  in  many 
a  well-turned  extempore  rhyme  which  he  made  before  the 
contest  came  off.  Unfortunately  in  the  actual  trial  the  dog 
behaved  in  such  a  way  as  to  disgrace  both  himself  and  his 
master,  and  to  evoke  from  Malcolm  the  following : — 

ORAN  A'  CHOIN. 

Do  chu  bitsach  mosach 
Cha  dionnsuich  thu  ceart  e. 
Cha  robh  de  thuigse  aig'  na  chaisg  «, 
''S  mor  gu^m  b'  fhearr  ann  an  cid  e 
Na  cur  sionnach  ri  fasgadh. 

"SONG  TO  THE  DOG. 

Your  vile  dog  with  huge  mug 
Not  right  did  you  train  him, 
That  lacked  sense  to  restrain  him. 
Better  far  at  heel  bound 
Than  run  foxes  to  ground. " 

Asked  why  he  himself,  seeing  he  rhymed  so  well,  did  not 
take  on  with  the  bard-craft,  Malcolm  replied  : 

Cha  bki  e  air  a  rddh  gun  do  rug  mo  mhdthair  da  hhdrd :  "  It 
will  never  be  said  that  my  mother  bore  two  bards." 


512 


APPENDIX  IV 

NOTE  ON  THE  METRICS 

The  metres  of  Gaelic  poetry  fall  into  two  great  classes — 

A.  The   Syllabic  or  Consonantal   metres,  requiring  (1)  a 

fixed  number  of  syllables  in  each  line ;  (2)  conson- 
ance, or  rhyme,  in  the  final  word  of  each  line  or 
couplet. 

B.  The  Stressed  or  Vocalic  metres,  requiring  in  each  line 

a  fixed  number  of  stressed  or  accented  syllables  in 
which  the  same  vowels  recur. 

The  metrical  system  of  the  first  division,  which  comprises 
the  great  mass  of  Gaelic  poetry  for  nearly  a  thousand  years 
from  the  eighth  century  onwards,  was  derived  from  the 
Latin  hymn-poetry  of  the  fifth  and  sixth  centuries.  This 
system,  a  highly  intricate  and  difficult  one,  gradually  broke 
down.  The  growth  of  the  imitation  metres,  Oglachas  and 
Bruilingechty  and  the  development  of  internal  rhymes  paved 
the  way  for  the  modern  system  which,  influenced  latterly 
by  English  measures,  depended  less  upon  the  number  of 
syllables  than  upon  the  rhythm  and  upon  a  corresponding 
sequence  of  vowels  in  stressed  syllables. 

In  Maclntyre's  poems  both  systems  are  represented,  but 
the  older  largely  predominates. 

A 

Only  the  framework  of  the  metres  remains,  and  it  is 
therefore  superfluous  to  quote  at  large  the  rules  of  Gaelic 
versification,  except  a  few  that  apply. 

513  2K 


APPENDIX  IV 

Uaim,  alliteration,  was  of  two  kinds — {&)  flor-uaim  when 
the  last  word  of  the  line  and  the  word  immediately  preceding 
began  with  a  vowel,  dlainn,  uasal,  p.  20,  2,  or  with  the  same 
consonant,  feurach,  fuara7iack,  p.  96,  176  ;  and  (b),  uaim  gnuise, 
or  sultty  when  the  alliteration  was  between  other  than  the 
last  two  words,  barrack,  bileack,  p.  96,  173.  Our  poet  often 
uses  this  "  artful  aid,"  but  entirely  at  his  pleasure,  and  with 
little  deference  to  old  metrical  laws. 

Comhardadh,  consonance,  or  rhyme,  was  of  two  kinds  : — 

(a)  sldn,  where  the  vowels  were  the  same  in  quantity  and 
quality,  and  the  consonants  were  of  the  same  class,  pheacadh, 
thachair,  p.  112,  4,  5.  In  some  cases  this  consonance 
amounted  to  actual  rhyme,  ceol,  sgeoil,  beoil,  leoir,  p.  328, 
2,  4,  6,  8. 

(b)  briste,  when  vowels  or  consonants  were  not  of  the 
same  quality  or  class,  rium,  eruin,  p.  10,  18,  20;  again, 
guanach ;  binn,  gleann,  p.  48,  102,  4,  3,  5;  sdr-chleachdach, 
guairsgeach,  p.  212,  29,  31. 

Internal  assonance  or  rhyme,  luxuriant  in  modern  poetry, 
was  of  two  kinds  : — 

(a)  uaithne,  internal  vowel  rhyme,  which  was  imperative 
when  the  lines  of  the  couplet  did  not  assonate.  The  final 
stressed  syllable  of  the  first  line,  the  caesura,  assonated  with 
an  internal  word  in  the  second  line  of  the  couplet,  cuirnein- 
each,  sughmhor,  p.  96,  189,  190. 

(b)  amus,  assonance  or  rhyme  between  words  with  the 
same  number  of  syllables,  lionmhor,  brioghmhor,  p.  96,  189, 
190. 

In  scansion  the  word  in  caesura  frequently  begins  the 
second  line  of  the  couplet,  Cha,  p.  78,  2 ;  Anns,  p.  78,  6 ; 
cf.  p.  455,  XL,  3,  a  long  syllable,  especially  a  final,  may  be 
counted  as  two,  p.  80,  35  ;  and  unaccented  initial  particles 
may  be  omitted,  p.  80,  41  ;  or  the  first  syllable  of  the  foot 
may  be  wanting,  p.  78,  5. 

Gaelic  poetry  is  in  character  trochaic.     In  a  large  pro- 


NOTE  ON  THE  METKICS 

portion  of  Maclntyre's  pieces  the  metre  resembles  the 
Classical  Trochaic  Octonarius  (Tetrameter  Acatalectic), 
called  in  Gaelic  metrics : 

Rannaigecht  bee  mor,  or  Carn-decknaid,  the  formula  for 
which  is  82  +  8^.  There  are  eight  syllables  in  each  line 
ending  with  a  dissyllabic  word. 

I.,  p.  2 ;  IV.,  p.  20 ;  XXXVIl.,  p.  306  ;  XXXVIII.,  p. 
310,  25-32,  41-8;  XL.,  p.  320,  33-80;  XLI.,  p.  324,  17-64; 
XLII.,  p.  332,  49-80  ;  XLIII.,  p.  334 ;  XLIV.,  p.  340,  17-24, 
29-32,  41-64;  XLV.,  p.  344,  9-24,  41-56;  65-72,  77-80; 
XLVI.,  p.  352;  XLVIII.,  p.  358;  LVIII.,  p.  414,  17-40; 
LXI.,  p.  428  ;  LXII.,  p.  436,  9-16  ;  VIII.,  p.  62.  In  the  last 
poem,  the  formula  for  which  is  3  x  82  +  8^,, the  triplets  rhyme, 
and  the  fourth  lines  have  all  the  same  rhyme,  ei,  throughout. 

Rannaigecht  dialtach  (or  rnor),  7^  +  7^,  has  seven  syllables 
in  each  line  ending  with  a  monosyllabic  word.  The  end 
of  couplets  rhymes,  and  the  word  in  caesura  rhymes  with 
a  word  in  the  second  line  of  the  couplet.  XXXIII.,  p.  278  ; 
XLIX.,  p.  360;  LX.,  p.  418  ;  LXII.,  p.  436,  1-8,  17-24. 

Snedbairdne,  8^  +  4^,  alternates  with  Rannaigecht  bee  mor  (or 
Carn-dechnaid),  82  +  82,  XXXVIII.,  p.  308;  XLI.,  p.  324; 
XLIV.,  p.  340 ;  XLV.,  p.  344  ;  LVIII.,  p.  412. 

Setnad  mor  or  fota  {Seudna,  O'Molloy,  XIX.),  82  +  7^, 
XXXII.,  p.  272,  9. 

Seudna  mheadhonach,  83  +  72,  XXIIL,  p.  210;  XXXI., 
p.  264  ;  XXXVI.,  p.  302  ;  XX.,  p.  190,  463-554,  3  x  8^  +  72. 

In  Seudna  measures  it  is  imperative  that  the  word  in 
caesura  rhyme  with  a  word  in  the  second  line  of  the  couplet ; 
and  it  often  rhymes  with  the  first  accented  word  in  that 
line. 

3x72  +  83,  XXXVII.,  p.  242.  The  triplets  rhyme,  and 
the  fourth  lines  rhyme  throughout. 

2(72  +  83)  +  (3  X  72  +  83),  LXI.,  p.  406. 

Druimne  suithe  na  bairdne,  83  +  83,  XL,  p.  82;  LVL,  p.  398. 
515 


APPENDIX  rv 

83  +  61,  X.,  p.  78;  XXXIX.,  p.  312;  XL.,  p.  318;  XLIL, 
p.  328;  LIX.,  p.  416. 

Dechnad  mor  (or  fota),  82  +  62,   XXXIV.,  p.  286:  or  the 
scansion  may  be  3  x  42  +  22. 
62  +  82,  XVIIL,  p.  148. 

Slat  brecht  mor,  6^  +  6^,  LII.,  p.  378.  The  metre  is  more 
regular  after  line  81. 

Rindard,  62  +  62,  XX.,  Siubhal,  p.  160,  49-120,  217-288, 
337-410.  The  closing  cadences  of  all  the  Siubhal  strophes 
end  in  z  up  to  line  260,  after  which  the  stressed  end  syllable 
is  o,  as  in  Urlar.     XLVI.,  p.  356. 

Cro  cumaisc  etir  midaird  /  leihrandaigecht,  62  +  5^,  XXIX., 
p.  252. 

73  +  61,  LI.,  p.  370. 

Ochtfhoclach  7nor  chorranach,  3x62+51,  XIX.,  p.  156; 
XXXV.,  p.  296. 

Ochtfhoclach  bee,  3  x  52  +  41,  VI.,  p.  42. 

Lethrannaigecht  mo?'  and  blogbairdne,  2(5i  +  5^)  +  (3  x  5i  +  5^), 
XX.,  Urlar,  p.  160,  1-48,  121-216,  289-336,  411-462. 

The  odd  lines  of  the  first  quatrains  may  open  with 
anacrusis,  and  the  last  word  of  the  line  may  be  divided 
by  the  caesura. 

B 

The  rest  of  Maclntyre's  pieces  fall  under  the  second 
great  division,  stressed  or  accented  metres.  The  stress 
rules  a  varying  number  of  syllables  which  have  the  same 
or  a  very  similar  vowel  sound,  as  in  Tennyson's  line : 

"  Biiry  the  Great  Duke  with  an  empire's  lamentation." 

The  accent  for  purposes  of  scansion  marks  stressed  (but 
not  necessarily  long)  vowels. 

Two  kinds  of  stressed  metres  are  in  use  (a)  Cumha, 
lament ;  (b)  Oran,  lay. 

S16 


NOTE  ON  THE  METRICS 

(a)  An  excellent  example  of  Cumha,  limited  to  one  stanza, 
occurs  in  XXXII.,  p.  272,  1-8  : 

'/S  tnlagh  r'a  Msteachd  an  sg^ul  thug  mif^in  tuille  '«  Math, 
Rinn  an  t-iug  ceann  na  c6iUe  '«  nam  b4us  a  thoirt  ilainn. 

Five  vowel  stresses  occur  in .  each  line ;  the  first  vowel 
varies ;  the  next  three  vowel  stresses  are  the  same  in 
quantity  and  quality,  and  recur  in  each  line ;  the  last 
stressed  vowel  in  the  line  corresponds  throughout. 

VI.,  p.  52,  is  a  triple-phrased  Cumha : 

3  {*S  d^ilich  learn  an  edradh)  '»  o'  bhrdighe  so  thdll. 
The  last  accented  vowel  corresponds  or  assonates  through- 
out the  stanza ;  the  first  accented  vowel  is  indefinite  and 
need  not  correspond  with  any  other  accented  vowel  in  its 
own  line  or  in  any  other  line ;  the  second  and  third  accented 
vowels  correspond  with  one  another  in  their  own  line,  but 
need  not  correspond  with  the  second  and  third  accented 
vowel  of  any  other  line.  In  this  poem  the  second  and  third 
accented  vowels  do  correspond  through  several  stanzas. 

XV.,  p.  122: 

Our  milladach  thd  sinn  mu  mhdidsear  Achdladair. 
The  last  stressed  vowel  assonates  throughout  the  poem, 
hence  called  an  A  poem ;  the  first  vowel  is  indefinite ;  the 
second  and  third  assonate  with  each  other,  and  they  may, 
and  here  do,  assonate  with  other  stressed  vowels  in  like 
positions. 

XVI.,  p.  130,  a  triple-phrased  five-stressed  Cumha  : 
3  {Smdointean  tniagh  a  th*  air  m'  digne)  cha  chddal  ach  duiag. 

The  last  stressed  vowel  recurs  throughout  the  poem,  which 

is  thus  an  U  poem. 

(b)  The  versification  of  Oran  is  similar  to  above  but  may 

be  more  intricate.      II.,  p.  10  : 

Deoch  sldinte  Bigh  Dedrsa  gun  dlainn  air  th'As. 

The    final   vowel    corresponds    through     the    stanza;    the 


APPENDIX  IV 

first  stressed  vowel  is  indefinite ;  the  second  and  third 
correspond  with  one  another  but  not  necessarily  with  the 
second  and  third  vowel  stress  in  any  other  line. 

III.,  p.  16,  the  end  stressed  vowels  correspond  through- 
out this  A  poem.     The  second  stress  is  the  strongest. 

v.,  p.  30,  a  sextuple-phrased  six-stressed  A  poem : 

6  {sc/6ul  a  Fait  learn  r^a  innseadh)  o  thdiseach  na  stri  so  thdinig. 
The   third   and    fifth    stressed    vowels    correspond    in    each 
stanza  and  the  stressed  end  vowel  corresponds  throughout. 

IX.,  p.  66,  by  naming  the  base  lines  after  letters,  it  will 
be  clearly  seen  in  what  order  the  lines  are  repeated,  thus  : 

a  b  b  c,  a  b  b  c,  d  e,  d  e,  a  b  b  c. 
The  first  stress  in  b  and  c  often  amounts  to  an  amiLs.     In 
d  e  there  is  a  triple  phrase  in  the  best  stanzas,  e.g.,  line  41  : 
Mar  ri  ddg,  ullamh  ghrdd,  a  bhiodh  a  sndp.    c  ends  in  o  through- 
out this  O  poem. 

XII.,  p.  98  : 

a'  bhliadhna  chrtiinnich  an  cdmpa  '5  a  thdinig  an  trlohlaid. 
The    end  stressed  vowels  correspond  in  individual  stanzas, 
and  the  second  and  third  in  their  own  stanzas.     The  first 
stress  is  indefinite. 

XIII.,  p.  108,  is  irregular  either  by  syllabic  or  stressed 
scansion.  The  final  stressed  vowels  of  the  uneven  lines 
correspond,  as  do  those  of  the  even  lines.  Each  caesura 
corresponds  with  an  internal  word  in  the  second  line  of 
the  couplet. 

XIV.,  p.  112,  is  an  O  poem  formed  by  a  septuple  two- 
stressed  phrase,  increased  at  the  end  of  each  strophe  by 
an  iambic  stress  which  corresponds  throughout  the  poem. 

XVII.,  p.  142,  begins  with  a  triple  two-stressed  phrase, 
followed  by  a  dactyl  which  corresponds  throughout  this 
U  poem.     The  lines  occur  in  this  order  : 

ab,  ab, ab,  abbbbbeccd. 
The  last  caesura  rhymes  internally  with  d.     The  scansion  of 
lines  1-8  is  bbbb  cccd. 

518 


NOTE  ON  THE  METRICS 

XXI.,  p.  196: 

A  Mhdiri  hhan  6g  *s  tu  'w  digh  tK  air  ttC  dire. 
has  four  stresses ;  the  first  indefinite ;  the  last  corresponds 
in  the  first  line  of  the  couplets  throughout  the  stanza ;  the 
second  and  third  rhyme  together  and  also  with  the  first 
stress  of  the  second  line  of  the  couplet.  The  even  lines 
of  the  couplets  correspond,  and  also  the  uneven.  The 
caesura  generally  makes  an  amus  with  the  second  stressed 
word  in  the  following  line. 

XXII.,  p.  206,  has  four  stresses,  the  first  of  which  is 
indefinite ;  the  second  and  third  correspond ;  the  fourth 
corresponds  with  the  closing  rhyme  of  couplet,  or  couplets. 

XXIV.,  p.   216,  a  triple-phrased  four-stressed  O  poem: 
3  ('(S  i  Mdiri  Nic  Ndachdainn)  ri  n4ach  a  tha  bed. 
The  first  stress  is  indefinite ;  the  second  and  third  assonate  ; 
and  the  fourth  assonates  throughout  the  poem. 

XXVIII.,  p.  248,  is  similarly  an  A  poem,  and  XXX., 
p.  254,  LIII.,  p.  388,  are  Ei  poems.  LV.,  p.  394,  is  an  U 
poem  for  three  stanzas. 

XXV.,  p.  222  : 
^S  a'  chdora  fhuair  mi  o  ShiYisaidh  gun  an  cAinn  a  dholg^a  cednnach 
is  a  four-stressed  A  poem,  like  XXVI.,  p.  236 ;     L.,  p.  366, 
is  an  Ao  poem ;  LIV.,  p.  392,  an  A  poem. 


519 


GLOSSARY 


AiTHiii,  m. ,  shelving  slope,  recess 
(with  prothetic  f,  f-aithiVi  from 
ath  +  tlr,  backland,  old  beach), 
46,73 

Aoidh,  herd  (a«,  wo,  aoi,  -i-  sealbh, 
a  herd,  O'Cl.) 

Aolmann,  m.  {alimeniunii  ali- 
moniunii  for  change  to  long 
vowel,  cf.  Thurneysen,  Hand- 
buchy  §  907),  ointment,  a  lump 
of  tallow  in  pipe-bag  to  moisten 
it  and  make  it  air-tight,  350,  69 

Athadh-laimhe,  flinching  of  hand, 
440,  53 

BiADHTACH,  wi.,  hospitallcr,  one 
who  held  land  on  condition  of 
supplying  food  (Mad)  to  those 
billeted  on  him  by  the  chief 
{A.  v.,  ii.,  128;  /.  T.  S.,  xi., 
134),  402,  64 

Braonan,  (1)  earth-nut,  bunium 
flexuosum ;  (2)  pig-nut,  carum 
bulhocastanum  (Balfour,  p.  825), 
42,  19 

Broc-liath  chorrach  eild',  lit.  a 
restless  grey-badger  of  a  hind 
(cf.  Muire  mathar^  a  Mary  of  a 
mother,  O'MoUoy,  Gr.  xvii. ; 
sui  Goeidhily  a  master  or  sage 
of  a  Goedhel,  an  eminent 
Goedel,  A.  C7.,  il,  112;  breisim 
madhmat  a  crushing  of  a  defeat. 


a  crushing  defeat,  A.  Z7.,  ii., 
542),  168,  133 

Ceapaire  romais,  piece  of  richly 
buttered  bread  (from  Norse 
rjomi,  according  to  Henderson ; 
adj.  romasach,  Macdonald, 
p.  28,  16),  116,  72 

Ceud-mhna,  wife  (cf.  nir  sherc 
ced-ingine  da  cele,  it  was  not  a 
maiden's  love  for  her  mate, 
C.  C.C.,%  77),  140,  149 

Ciob,  deer's  hair,  schoenus  coespi- 
tosusy  Balfour,  p.  944  (Ceib, 
coarse  grass,  O'D. ;  from  Gk. 
through  Lat.  cannabis ;  Eng. 
hemp,  borrowed  very  early,  v. 
Skeat),  44,  29  ;  172,  173 

Ciil-fhinn,  fair -haired,  lovely 
{Cuilrfhionny  fair  lady,  O'Sulli- 
van,  1328 ;  re  ciUlfhinn  dom 
dhiiithight  with  a  maid  of  my 
country,  O'Bruadair,  p.  86, 
xxL),  42,  11 

Cursan,  courser  Cdo  chursaibh^  Sdr 
Obair,  42625 ;  from  ^w^.course), 
46,  80  ;  66,  21 ;  374,  61 

Dreagan,  dragon  (almost  in- 
variably used  in  a  good  sense, 
O'Bruadair,  52,  94,  176),  132, 
29 

Duine  dall,  blind  man.    (These 


521 


GLOSSARY 


words  in  Irish  poetry  usually 
refer  to  the  centurion,  called  in 
tradition  Longinus,  who  thrust 
a  lance  into  our  Saviour's  side), 

432,  85 

EiRTHia,  oirthir,  coast  (cf.  f-orar^ 
finis.  Ml.  56646;  oravy  jEn. 
1466),  192,  506 

Feadan,  runnel  on  hillside  (cf. 
Oort-an-feadain,  Garden  of  the 
Brook,  A.  U.y  iii.,  166  ;  Feadari- 
na-bo-duinne,  on  Ben  Dorain, 
near  the  Strone,  below  Coire- 
fhraoich ;  fedan^  f.  jugum^ 
Wb.  16al6),  188,  435 

Feill  Sheathain  Roid,  the  Feast 
of  John,  near  Roodraass  :  The 
Decollation  of  the  Baptist  took 
place  on  29th  August;  Rood- 
mass  synchronises  with  the 
Exaltation  of  the  Cross,  14th 
September,  which  is  the  date 
of  the  commencement  of  the 
rutting  season  in  the  High- 
lands (cf.  Sar  Obair,  p.  98a8 ; 
N.  G.  P.,  p.  297),  86,52 

Foichear,  cornstalks  springing 
from  seeds  dropped  by  cattle, 
402,  56 

Foirmeil,  brisk,  lively  (the 
alternative  form,  soirmeil 
(Lochalsh,  C  D  E),  points  to 
the  derivation,  Sk.  svar-ati,  it 
sounds  ;  Ok.  {rOp-17^,  pipe, 
flute ;  Lat.  su-sur-ru-s ;  a 
humming;  Eng.  swar-m),  40, 
140 ;  194,  523 

F6trus,  refuse  (by  metathesis 
from  fortas,  with  prothetic  f. 
f-ortas ;  Eng.  orts  ;  Sc.  w-orts), 
178,  296 


Gallanaich,  from  galla^  bitch  (?) 
{cf.  gus  an  cuala  iad  a'  ghairm 
ghallain,  Folk  Tales,  p.  246),  36, 
105;  194,541 

Glasghairm,  voice-lock,  muzzle, 
p.  xxii 

Glasmheur,  finger-lock,  test  piece 
of  pipe  music,  p.  xxxi 

Gloinin,  squint;  gloin,  squint- 
eyed,  H.  B.  (cf.  Sc.  gley(?)  and 
s-gleo,  M'B.),  170,  154 

Grine,  green,  lawn;  in  Barra, 
high  machar  land,  166,  88  ;  176, 
238 ;  pi.  grineachan,  84,  23 

Groigeasach,  sulky,  frowning, 
gnoigeasach,  H.  S.  D.;  grog,  pet, 
huff.  Arms.,  178,  283 

loNGA,  nail;  pi.  iongan,  166,  81 ; 
ionganan,  194,  537 

La  'r'n-mhaireach.  Id  iarna 
bdrach,  the  day  after  to-morrow, 
396,  43 

Leolaichean,  globe  flower  (?) 
Cameron's  Gaelic  Names  of 
Plants,  p.  22  (cf.  H.  B.),  96, 
183 

Loireadh,  wallowing  (better 
known  in  the  derivative, 
lothrugud— ^w.  1002 — whence 
O.  loirc :  lothor,  alveus,  Z^, 
782),  168,  134 

MIdar,  madder  (IF.  H.  Tales,  iv., 
335),  394,  25 

Mionntainn,  mint;  mionntuinn, 
Arm^ ;  mionntuin,  H.  S.  D.  ; 
96, 177 

Mothar,  stone  fort  in  ruins,  any 
stone  house  in  ruins,  any  stone 
enclosure,  park,  tuft,  cluster  of 
trees,  Wi. ;  cf.  Joyce,  i.,  298 


GLOSSARY 


Muran,  bent ;  in  Uist,  buran,  sea- 
bent  ;  used  in  Skye  for  making 
horse  collars,  etc. ;  muran  = 
carrot  (Cameron,  p.  57)  is  un- 
known in  the  Duncan  Ban 
country),  44,  31 

Neo  -  SHEACHANTACH,  avoidless, 
inevitable  {cf.  Neo-sheachanta, 
indispensable,  necessarius,  in- 
evitabilis  ;  neo  -  sheachnach, 
avoidless — H.  S.  D.  SuppL), 
268,  89 

Neul  cruadail,  cloud  of  valour 
(cf.  ^.n-gailet  bird  of  valour  that 
fluttered  over  the  warrior's 
head :  and  lonn  Idith^  T.  Troi  ^), 
270,  82 

Os  N-AiRD,  110,  46;  OS  n-iosal, 
176,  260. 

On  as  iosalf  o  as  n-iosal.  Com- 
pared with  iscian  6s  accohor 
lemm  farrichtu,  it  is  long  since 
I  have  had  a  desire  to  come  to 
you  (Wb.  7a3),  the  transported 
n  seems  irregular.  Probably  it 
arose  from  analogy  to  sentences 
like  foillsigthir  as  nisei  in- 
doinachty  it  is  shown  that  the 
manhood  is  lowly  {Ml.  25c5) 

Peirealais,  pairilist  Eng.  para- 
lysis, 192,  513 

Plosg-shiiil,  lively,  quick  rolling 
eye(0'R.),  170, 153 

Post,  leaden  slug,  62, 15 

Ri  MAiTHEAS  {cf.  the  phrasc,  ciod 
a  tha  thu  ri  maitheas?  what 
(good)  are  you  doing?),  236,  13 


Seabhag,  hawk  (often  used  in  a 
good  sense :  Brathair  seahhaig 
abhainn  Eime  —  O'Bruadair, 
p.  56 ;  Intleacht  tseahhaic  i 
n-aigne  an  leogain — O'Rahilly, 
120,  19),  132,  30 

Sliosmhor,  glossy  {Arms.),  94, 
167 

Straca,  a  stratum,  a  layer,  a  row, 
a  series  (O'D.,  who  reads  in 
error  stracha),  44,  34 

Suim,  number  of  cattle  allowed 
to  be  kept  {So.  soum,  Jamieson's 
Scot.  Diet.),  42,  16 

Suimear,  w.,  shin,  shank,  H.  J5., 
114,  42 

Tachair  (  =  uidh),  a  slow  current, 
as  of  water  leaving  a  loch 
("  Tachar  dubh  mointich," 
M'Lean),  58,  101 

Taoim,  106,  120 

Tarruing,  expedition,  as  in  A.  U., 
1498 

Tolc,  breach,  burst,  Ir.  T.  v., 
348,  55 

Torchuirt,  over -turning,  Shaw, 
O'R,  94,  71 

Trabhailidh,  reveille  (E  shows 
the  influence  of  trath ;  cf. 
bhratallion,  C,  392,  13,  where 
the  accent  is  on  the  second 
syllable  and  the  first  is  there- 
fore strengthened),  394,  21 

UiNEiN,  orb  {uinneamain,  uinnean, 
union,  from  Lat.  iinio,  **  a  single 
large  pearl,"  Ir.  Ql,  862),  28, 
130 


523 


NAMES    OF    PERSONS 


Abraham,  864,  48 
A-dhamh,  Adam,  122,  142 ;    314, 
18;  318,8;  362,26;  416,2,11; 
418,  25;  420,  14,  32 
iEolus  (God  of  the  Winds),  24,  54 
Aindrea  Farkra,  414,  32,  33 
Alasdair,     Alexander,     a    name 
which  was  introduced  into  Scot- 
land from  Hungary  by  Queen 
Margaret,     wife    of    Malcolm 
Ceannmore,     became    popular 
through  the  successful  reigns  of 
the  kings  so  named,  108, 2;  252, 
title,  1 ;  254,  32 
Anna,  352,  title,  1,  17 ;  354,  33 ; 
356,  62 

Bran  (raven),  Fionn's  dog,  B. 
lAsmore,  p.  6,  note,  436,  8 

Calum  (Columba),  Malcolm,  402, 
59 

Calum  breac,  pock-marked  Mal- 
colm, 254,  25 

Calum  Cille  (dove  of  cell),  St 
Columba,  358,  title,  1 ;  359,  29, 
32 

Calum  Mac  Ph^ruig,  440,  41 

Campbell  {cam  +  beul,  wry  mouth, 
a  nickname  by  which  the  Clann 
o'Duibhne  have  been  known 
in  Scotland  since  the  twelfth 
century),  adj.,  146,  75;  203,  21 


Campbell,   Major    Archibald,  of 

Achallader,  122,  title,  1 ;   126, 

65 
Campbell,  Colin,  of  Glenure,  130, 

title 
Campbell,  Rev.  Dugald,  360,  32 ; 

note,  p.  507 
Campbell,  Duncan,  Lord  Ormelie, 

488,  489 
Campbell,  Captain   Duncan,   12, 

37;  16,  6;  98,  title,  3 
Campbell,  Lord  Frederick,  266,  9 
Campbell,    John,    1st    Earl    of 

Breadalbane,  487 
Campbell,    John,     2nd    Earl    of 

Breadalbane,  488,  489 
Campbell,    John,     3rd    Earl    of 

Breadalbane,  54,  46;  76,  169; 

138,  117  ;  272,  title 
Campbell,    John,     4th    Earl    of 

Breadalbane,  378,  title,  1 ;  388, 

15;  412,  1;  491 
Campbell,  John,  Lord  Glenorchy, 

30,  title 
Campbell,   John,  of   the    Bank, 

66,1 
Caoilte,  Son  of  Ronain,  a  chief 

figure  in  the   FingaUan  tales, 

178,  269 
Ceann-feadhna    nan    Greumach, 

the  Duke  of  Montrose,  284,  85 
Clann-an-Aba    (children    of    the 

abbot),  the  MacNabs,  444,  129 


524 


NAMES  OF  PERSONS 


Clann  an  Leisdeir,  the  Fletchers, 

6,70 
Clann-an-t-Saoir  (children  of  the 

carpenter),  the  Maclntyres,  400, 

36 ;  444,  126 
Clann  Camshroin  (wry  nose),  the 

Camerons,  138,  125,  adj.,  208, 

26;  288,  34;  440,59;  444,  125 
Clann     D6mhnuill,     the      Mac- 

donalds,  4,  37;   208,  19;    286, 

18;     440,    46,   59;    adj.,    444, 

126 
Clann  Dughaill,  the  MacDougalls, 

400,  39 
Clann  Ghriogair,  the  MacGregors, 

290,  73,  adj.,  444,  137 
Clanna-Baoisge,  the  Fingalians ; 

Fionn  is  called  hu  Baiscne,  Waifs 

and  Strays,  ii.,  403,  444,  128 
Clanna-Cearda,  the  Sinclairs,  402, 

43 
Coll,  Condla,  Connla,  or  Colla, 

son  of  Cond  Cetchathach,  Conn 

the  hundred  fighter,  310,  32 
Conan,    the    Thersites    of    the 

Fingalians,  432,  97 
Cothun,  Major  Colquhoun,  10,  6 ; 

see  note,  p.  483 
Criosd,  358,  15  ;  362,  32,  33 
Cuchullainn,    the    hero    of  the 

Ulster  cycle  of  tales,  178,  269 
Cuigse,  /.,  The  Whigs,  2,  2 ;   4, 

32 ;  434,  142 
Cupid,  198,  25 

Deorsa,  Righ,  King  George  III. 

10,  1;  14,  57,  65;  16,  12;  18 
30;  20,  1,  18;  22,  47;  26,  81 
90;  28,  112;  78,  192;  126,  63 
142,  11  ;  146,  69;  178,  272 
208,  28  ;  258,  58  ;  286, 16  ;  294 
112;  386,  111,  123;  392,  7,  14 
396,   25;    410,   64;    432,    106 


434,  126 ;  438,  15  ;  440,  66,  66  ; 
442,  110 

Diarmad,  Diarmaid  Mac  ua 
Duibhne,  the  legendary  ancestor 
of  the  Argyll  family,  had  a 
beauty  spot  on  his  face  fatal  to 
female  susceptibihties.  Grdinne, 
wife  of  Fionn  and  daughter  of 
King  Cormac  mac  Airt,  having 
seen  it,  eloped  with  him,  100,  44 ; 
102,55;  126,59;  208,24;  270, 
72;  416,  40 

Diuc  Earra-ghaidhleach,  the  Duke 
of  ArgyU,  76,  165;  138,  115 

Diuc  Uilleam,  William  of  Orange, 
144,  36  ;  148,  90,  99 

DomhnuU,  108,  9 

DomhnuU  Bkn  Mac  O'Neachdain, 
112,  1;  116,  59 

D6mhnull  glas,  228,  70 

Donas,  the  Devil,  430,  67 

EARRA-ghaidheal  (Airer-gaidhel, 
district  of  the  Gael,  Skene,  Celt. 
Scot.,  iii.,  48  ;  Vita  S.  Col.  247), 
ArgyU,  8,  97  ;  138,  115 ;  264, 
title  ;  268,  33  ;  310,  40 ;  382,  78  ; 
adj.,  76,  165  ;  266,  31 ;  396,  22 

Eileanach,  Islander,  384,  89 

Eoghann,  52,  14 

Eubha,  Eve,  416,  17 

Fearghas,  King  Fergus  I.  (on 
these  legendary  kings,  see 
John  Hill  Burton's  Hist.  Scot., 
i.,  287),  372,  44 

Fiann,  Feen,  or  Fingalians,  gen. 
»tn^.,440, 61;  cothrom na  F^inne, 
equal  combat,  "it  being  the 
practice  of  Fingal  never  to 
engage  an  enemy  with  superior 
numbers."  Smith's  Sean  Dana, 
p.  207  ;  ace.  sing,  an  FhHnn, 


525 


NAMES  OF  PEKSONS 


334,  72  ;  gen.  pi.  nam  Fianntan, 
380,  30;  nam  Fiann,  436,  8; 
dat.  pi  na  Fianntaibh,  416,  37 

Fionn,  Fionn  Mac  Cumhaill,  the 
principal  figure  of  the  Fingalian 
legendary  cycle,  334,  67 

Fletcher,  Archibald,  6,  50 

Gaidheal,  Gael,  22,  34 ;  34,  64 
250,  48;  256,  37;  284,  73 
296,  17;  326,  34;  336,  10,  18 
35;  338,  57;  342,  26;  390,  45 
396,37;  414,  34;  440,  66;  442 
105;  adj.,  28,  119;  316,  57 
320,  25 

Gaidhealtachd,  344,  57  ;  366;  16 

Gall,  Goill,  Lowland  Scot,  22,  29  ; 
280,  34;    386,  119;   adj.,  34,  62 

Garadh,  son  of  Morna,  334,  67 

GoU,  mac  Morna,  chief  of  the 
Connacht  Fingalians  in  the 
legendary  cycle,  334,  67 

Griffin,  General,  126,  42 

Griogairich,  the  MacGregors, 
444,  137 

Hallaidh,  General  Hawley,  see 
Chamber's  Hist.  Rebel,  Ch. 
XVII.,  XVIII.,  10,  5 

Hay,  394,  7,  11 

Iain  buidh'.  Tawny  John,   400, 

19  ;  402,  59 
Iain  Faochaig,  John  Wilkes,  428, 

title,  1  ;  434,  127 
Iain  Ic-Ruairidh,  John,    son   of 

Roderick,  438,  6,  10 
larla  Bhoid,  the  Earl  of  Bute, 

434,  122 
Iseabal,  206,  1 
liidas,  430,  38 


Loudon,  76,  173;  434, 113 


Mac  Aoidh,  M'Kay,  138,  121 

MacBhaididh,  44,  33 

MacCailin,  the  Duke  of  Argyll, 

204,  119  ;  224,  32  ;  358,  4 
Mac  Dhomhnuill  Duibh,  Cameron 

of   Lochiel    (c/.    M'lain,   182; 

Keltic,  ii.,  218  b;  Browne,  iv., 

483),  138,  125 
Maclntyre,  Dr  Joseph,  78,  14 
Mac   Ruairidh,  son  of  Roderick, 

438,  6,  10 
Mac-Shaoir,  Maclntyre,  310,  39 
Mac    Shimidh    (son    of   Simon), 

Lord  Lovat,  338,  51 
Mkiri,  Ban-righ,  10,  10 
Mairi  bhan  6g,  196,  1 
MMri  bh^n  o  Loch-lairig,  210,  1 ; 

214,  72 
Mairi  Nic  Neachdainn,  216, 1 
Maois  (Heb.   Mosheh),    364,  48; 

420,  21,  22 
Marcus  nan  Greumach,  Marquis 

of  Graham,  282,   45 ;   284,  87 ; 

338,  50  ;  503 
Mars,  22,  52 
Montrose  {monad +  roiss,  ?  the  hill 

of  the  headland,  promontory, 

or  wood),  278,  7  ;  284,  88 

Neptune,  24,  55 

Nic  Coiseam,  16, 17  ;  note,  p.  484 ; 

192,  494  ;  242,  title,  8 
Noah,  318,  11 

PXdruig,  Paruig  (Patricius),  108, 

2;  150,  14;  436,  1 
Pap,  the  Pope,  330,  28 ;  434,  142 
Para  Mac  Bheathain,  108,  17 
Pkruig,  P^druig,  Para  Mor,  son 
of    Duncan     Campbell,    Lord 
Ormehe    (according    to    tradi- 
tion), 60,  129  ;  162,  42 
Prionnsa  Tearlach,  2,   9,   4,  43; 


526 


NAMES  OF  PERSONS 

8,  99 ;  142,  6,  9 ;  148, 101 ;  442,  Siusaidh,  Susan,  222,  1 

106  ;  444,  114,  124,  151  Slanuighear,  Saviour.  420, 9 ;  428, 

32 

Seathan,  John,  86,  50 

Seonaid,  Janet,  a  nickname  for  _,                  ^,     ,             ^^  . 

.1               1.-  u  1.1-          1.        'J  lEARLACH,  Charles,  v.  Pnonnsa, 

the  gun  which  the  poet  carried  ..„,„/    ...    ,,'    ,„.     ", 

in  the  Edinburgh  Town  Guard,  _,  *f '  1»^  '  "*•'"•  l^*'/"  .^^ 

,g   ^2  Tuathaich,  Northmen,  of  Caith- 

Sesi,' Jessy,  154,  76  °®®^'  ^^'  ^^ 
Seumas,  James,  154,  74 

Seumas  (Mac-an-t-Saoir),  312,  55  ;  Uisdean,    Hugh,    344,    title,    9; 

note,  p.  505  348,  50,  67  ;  350,  81,  89 


527 


NAMES   OF   PLACES 


Abailte,  Abbey  (of  Holyrood), 
372,  41 ;  376,  102 

Achadh-loinne  (field  of  enclosure, 
loinrij  gen.  of  lann,  or  loinn^  the 
locative  of  lann,  is  taken  as  a 
new  worn.),  Auchlyne,  on  the 
north  side  of  R.  Dochart,  near 
Killin.  102,  54 

Achadh-innis-chuilinn  (field  of  the 
haugh  of  the  holly,  of  which  a 
single  fine  specimen,  long  past 
its  best,  still  grows  in  a  corner 
of  the  garden),  Auch,  489 

Achaladair  {achadh  +  CHaladair^ 
the  field  of  the  River  Calder), 
Achallader,  an  old  castle  at  the 
N.  end  of  Loch  TuUa,  122,  2 

Ais-an-t-Sithean  Qath  +  innis-an-t- 
Sithein,  the  backgone  or  poor 
haugh  of  the  fairy  knoll), 
Ashanteean,  at  the  head  of 
Auch  Glen,  168,  120 

Alba  (white  land),  Scotland,  nom. 
372,  46  ;  gen.  2,  1 ;  106,  130  ; 
270,  65;  292,  105;  318,  69; 
dat.  440,  66  ;  442,  46.  Albainn, 
nom.  314,  27 ;  dat.  116,  60  ;  254, 
10;  320,34;  332,58;  434,129; 
adj.  344,  61 

Allt-gartain  (brook  of  the  corn- 
field), flows  from  Buachaill 
Etive  and  falls  into  the  R.  Etive 
at  Dalness  House.      Between 


it  and  the  Etive  are  the  ruins  of 
the  poet's  cottage,  226,  39 

Annait  (Church,  mother-church), 
Annat,  on  the  N.  side  of  Auch 
Glen,  less  than  a  mile  from  R. 
Viaduct ;  the  scene  of  a  battle, 
with  ruins  and  an  old  grave- 
yard. The  chapel  was  situated 
between  Allt-na-h-Annait  and 
R.  Auch.  The  graveyard 
slightly  to  the  N.,  184,  365 

Apuinn  (the  abbeylands),  Appin, 
the  abbeylands  of  Lismore, 
extending  ten  miles  along  the 
shore  of  Loch  Linnhe  and  fifty 
miles  inland,  including  Glencoe 
as  far  as  King's  House,  130, 
7;  136,  95;  288,25 

Ard-chatain  (the  height  of  C), 
Ardchattan  Priory,  on  the  N. 
shore  of  Loch  Etive,  nearly 
opposite  Ach-na-cloich,  134,  62 

Arthar  (arathar,  a  ploughland, 
carrucate,  or  hide  of  land,  from 
aratrum,  a  plough),  Narrachan, 
the  site  of  a  school,  on  Loch 
Etive  side,  about  equidistant 
from  Ardmaddie,  and  Acharn, 
228,  66 

Bad-odhar  (dun  clump,  or 
thicket),  Badour,  a  shepherd's 
cottage     in     Glen      Lochay. 


5*8 


NAMES  OF  PLACES 


Duncan  Ban's  cottage  stood 
distant  a  few  score  paces,  218, 
27 

Banc,  The  Royal  Bank,  Edin- 
burgh, 66,  title,  1 ;  376,  102 

B^n-leacainn  (white  hillside),  W. 
of  Coire  a'  Cheathaich,  S.-W.  of 
Lairig-mac-Bhaididh,  44,  35 

Barbadoes,  406,  105 

Bealach  (pass),  Taymouth  Castle, 
32,  45;  38,  117;  40,  161;  276, 
65;  378,  10;  412,  4.  Tiir 
Bhealaich,  76,  170 

Beinn-a-chaisteil  (hill  of  the 
castle),  S.  of  Ben  Dorain,  the 
"  castle  "  is  the  furthest  W.  of 
the  line  of  "  brochs  "  that  runs 
up  the  Tay  valley,  thence  up 
Glenlyon,  and  is  resumed  in 
Lome,  242,  15 

Beinn  Achaladair  (hill  of  Achal- 
lader),  N.-E.  of  Loch  Tulla, 
182,  347 

Beinn-a-chaorach  (hill  of  the 
sheep),  S.-W.  of  Glen  Ket- 
land,  244,  47 

Beinn-a-chrulaist  (crulaist,  rocky 
hill,  H.  S.  D.),  S.-W.  of  King's 
House,  on  Etive  side,  244,  32 

Beinn-dorain,  Ben  Dorain,  160, 
2;  164.  69,  71;  170,  144;  174, 
216;  184,  390;  192,  514;  242, 
19;  406,1 

Beinn-nam-fuaran  (hill  of  the 
wells),  S.  of  Auch  Glen,  242, 
18 

Bl^r  Champaidh,  Closter  Camp, 
Keltic,  ii.,  476;  126,  41 

Braid-albann  (the  neck,  upland, 
or  highest  part,  of  Alba), 
Breadalbane,  formerly  Druim- 
albann.  Dorsum  Brittaniae, 
A.   v.,  716,  the  mountainous 


watershed,  or  county    march, 

between    Perth    and     Argyll, 

272,  title;  378,  title;  382,  59; 

388,  title;  adj.  396,  21 
Braighe,  Brae,  52,  4 ;  56,  49 
Breatann,  Britain,  (/en.   28,  125; 

432,  83;  dat.  70,  74;  256,  18; 

adj.  66,  10 
Buachaill  (shepherd),  at  the  head 

of  Glen  Etive,  W.   of  King's 

House,  244,  38 

Caisteal  Leodach,  Castle  Leod, 
near  Strathpeffer,  288,  50 

Camp  na  Creige  Seiliche  (plain 
of  the  willow  rock),  about 
three-fourths  up  the  southern 
face  of  Meall-tionail,  facing 
Auch  Glen,  182,  352  ;  192,  503 

Cananaich,  the  Buchanans,  Both- 
chanoirit  who  are  called  Mac-a- 
Chananaich^  the  children  of  the 
Canons.  Similarly  Fortrose, 
the  ecclesiastical  capital  of 
Ross,  is  called  A^  Chananaicht 
cf.  A.  U.y  1230,  1232;  Skene, 
ii.,374;  292,  97 

Ceann-loch-eite,  Loch  Etive- 
head,  228,  73 

Ceann-phadruig,  Peterhead,  392, 
5 

Cinn-alla  (cliff  head),  Kinnell, 
near  Killin,  formerly  the 
mansion  of  the  Lairds  of 
MacNab,  290,  65 

Cinn-tMle  (the  head  of  the  salt 
water) — (1)  a  parish  in  Ross, 
440,  54 ;  (2)  near  Tongue,  344, 
2 

Circe-poll  (Norse  hdU  abode; 
church  -  stead,  or  Kirkton), 
Kirkibol,  near  Tongue,  350,  93 

Clach  Phara  Mhoir,  489 


529 


2  L 


NAMES  OF  PLACES 


Clachan  -  an  -  diseirt  (the  stone 
church  of  the  desert,  or  her- 
mitage), the  Kirk  of  Glenorchy, 
formerly  Dysart,  78,  9 ;  250,  25 

Cloich-an-tuairneir  (the  turner's 
stone),  Glen  Etive,  one  and  a 
half  miles  past  Allt-a-chaorainn 
on  the  road  to  King's  House, 
244,  42 

Cluainidh  (a  meadow),  Cluny,  in 
Badenoch,  292,  81 

Coire-altrum  (rearing  or  nursing 
corrie),  if  here  a  place  name, 
the  northern  exposure  between 
the  Shepherds  of  Etive,  244,  36 

Coire-altrum,  on  Ben  Dorain, 
168,  115 

Coire-an-lochain  (corrie  of  the 
small  loch),  on  S.  side  of  Ben 
Lui,  482 

On  another  place,  near 
Glenoe,  the  poet  is  said  to 
have  made  these  lines  : — 

Chi  mi  Coire-lochain  thall, 
Mar  sin  agus  Meall  an  Arclaich, 

'S  an  CoirC'glas  air  a  chill, 
Beinn-a-Bht\iridh,  's  an  Caisteal. 

Coire  a'  Cheathaich  (the  corrie  of 
the  mist),  in  Glen  Lochay ,  42, 1 ; 
46,  73;  52, title;  62,4;  242,  12 

Coire-an-sgriodain  (corrie  of  the 
scree),  between  Ben  Lui  and 
Beinn-a-chleibh,  482 

Coire-an-t-sneachda  (corrie  of  the 
snow),  on  E.  side  of  Ben  Lui, 
482 

Coire  -  chaolain  (corrie  of  the 
narrow,  or  gut),  opens  into  Allt- 
a-chaorainn,  N.-W.  from  Stob 
Ghobhar,  between  Sron  -  a  - 
ghearrain  and  Aonach  Mor, 
244,  44 

Coire-chruiteir  (harper's   corrie), 


on  Ben  Dorain,  E.  of  the  Strone, 
facing  Beinn-a-chaisteil,  166, 
79;  244,23 
Coire-daingein  (corrie  of  fastness), 
on  the  N.-W.  side  of  Ben 
Dothaidh,  opposite  Ben  Achal- 
lader,  182,  342 
Coire  Dubh  Mhalagain,  in  Glen- 
strae,  E.  of  Loch  Awe,  490 

The  following  is  the  chorus  of 
a  song  expressive  of  the  out- 
law's feelings  : — 
Ho  ro  air  Coire  Dubh  Mhalagain, 
Cha  bhithinn  fo  ghruaim  ged  dh'fhdg' 
ainn  thu  : 
N'am  faighainn-sa  long   air    barra  nan 
tonn, 
Gu'n  cuirinn  mo  gheall  gu'm  Jagainn 
thu. 

Coire-fhraoich  (heath  corrie),  on 
the  face  of  Ben  Dorain,  between 
Strone  and  Coire-chruiteir, 
above  Feadan  -  na-bo  -  duinne, 
186,  413 

Coire-garbhlaich  (corrie  of  rough- 
ness), if  here  a  proper  name, 
as  local  people  allege,  is  in 
Fionn-ghleann,  46,  65 

Coire-na-gaoithe  (corrie  of  the 
wind),  on  E.  side  of  Ben  Lui, 
near  the  top,  482 

Coire-rainich  (fern  corrie),  on  the 
side  of  Ben  Dothaidh  opposite 
Ben  Achallader,  higher  up 
than  Coire-daingein,  182,  345 

Coire  Reidh,  facing  Ais-an-t- 
Sithein,  on  Beinn  an  Dothaidh, 
S.-W.  of  Coire-daingein,  182, 
347 

Coire-uanain  (lamb  corrie),  a  farm 
between  Corran  of  Ardgour 
and  Fort  William,  222,  9 

Conghlais,  cona-ghlais.  Glen  Kin- 
glas,  off  Glen  Etive,  398,  2 


530 


J 


NAMES  OF  PLACES 


Conn-lon,'probabIy  the  name  of  a 
low  bit  of  land  on  the  county 
march  in  the  glen  above  Ais- 
an-t-Sithean,  S.  of  Coire  R^idh, 
182,  348 

Crannach  (a  place  full  of  trees, 
A.  U.y  anno  696),  formerly  a 
farm,  now  an  old  fir  wood, 
N.  of  Achallader,  6,  50 

Craobh  na  h-ainnis  (the  tree  of  the 
runout  meadow,  ath  +  innis  {?)), 
probably  a  tree,  now  a  withered 
stump,  half-way  up  Auch  Glen 
near  the  stone— now  fallen  and 
broken  in  two — seated  on  which 
the  poet  is  said  to  have  com- 
posed The  Last  Farewell^  182, 
341 

Creag-an-aprain  (the  rock  of  the 
apron),  N.  of  Beinn-nam-fuaran 
and  E.  of  Ais-an-t-Sithean, 
viewed  from  which  a  rock  in 
the  face  of  the  hill  has  the 
appearance  of  an  apron,  242, 17 

Creagan-chaorach,  higher  on  the 
ridge,  and  a  few  furlongs  S.-E. 
of  what  is  called  the  Beacon 
Hill,  S.  of  Dalmally,  xxxvii 

Creag  Mhor  (great  rock),  E.  of 
Coire  a'  Cheathaich.  Another 
Creag  Mhor  lies  E.  of  Achal- 
lader, 44,  49  ;  180,  306 

Creisean,  hill  S.  of  Buachaill 
Eite,  244,  28 

Criosdachd,  Christendom,  174, 
220 

Cromba,  Cromarty,  or,  more 
likely,  Cromdale,  352,  1 

Cruach  (heap,  stack,  conical  hill), 
N.  of  Rannoch  Moor,  W.  of 
and  close  to  Rannoch  Station, 
244,  34 

Cruachan  (heaps,  stacks  ;   Crua- 


chan  Beann,  Stack  of  Peaks), 
32,  45;  310,  39 
Cuil-lodair  (the  nook  of  the  moss 
or  puddle),  CuUoden,   98,   17; 
440,  73  ;  442,  99 

Dail-an-easa  (dale  of  the  water- 
fall), Dalness,  S.  of  Buachaill 
Eite,  230,  87 

Doire-chr6  (cattle  grove),  on  the 
W.  side  of  Ben  Dorain,  opposite 
Auch,  82,  46;  180,  313 

Drochaid-duinn  (brown  bridge), 
Bridge  of  Doon,  Ayr,  394,  2 

Druim-a-chothuis  (the  ridge  of 
the  growing  together,  com-fks  = 
cob^,  compages,  JfZ.,  44^2), 
Glen  Etive  House,  428,  81 

Druim-clach-fionn  (white  stone 
ridge),  in  Coire  a'  Cheathaich, 
Glen  Lochay,  44,  40 

Drumainn  (locative  of  druim)^ 
Drummond  (Castle),  in  Strath- 
earn,  288,  41 

Dubh-ghiubhsaich  (dark  fir),  the 
Black  Wood  of  Rannoch,  292, 
91 

Dun-eideann,  Edinburgh,  16,  5 ; 
98,  title;  140,  147;  218,  47; 
266,  10;  280,  9  ;  336,  25;  388, 
58 ;  342,  25,  50 ;  370,  1 ;  376, 
89 ;  438,  22 

Eaglais  Bhreac  (spotted,  or  fal- 
low kirk),  Falkirk,  2,  title ;  6, 
66;  8,  104;  318,  72;  320,  38; 
438,  title 

Eden,  432,  101 

Eirinn  {dat.  of  Erin),  Ireland.  As 
worn.  314,  27;  dat.  168,  139; 
394,  5,  14;  398,  46;  adj.  22, 
29 


531 


NAMES  OF  PLACES 


Fas-ghlaic  (empty,  or  open 
hollow),  S.  of  Dalness,  on  Ben 
Ceitlein,  244,  39 

Feith  -  chaorainn  (bog  channel 
of  rowan),  W.  of  Allt-a- 
chaorainn,  S.-E.  of  Beinn 
Ceitlein,  near  the  sheepfold. 
Feithe  Chaorunn  Mor,  O.S., 
244,  43 

Fionn-ghleann  (white  glen),  be- 
tween Ben  Heasgairnich  and 
Coire-an-t-sneachda,  S.  of 
Lochlyon  from  an  Rudha,  52, 
138 

Flanras,  Flanders,  256,  34 

Fontenoi,  Fontenoy,  258,  4P 

Fraing,  France,  28,  125 ;  42,  22  ; 
304,  38  ;  adj.  Frangaich,  24, 
69;  124,  15;*  380,  33;  392,  16; 
444,  123 

Frith-choirean  (small  side  corrie), 
first  corrie  N.-W.  of  Strone,  on 
Ben  Dorain,  186,  393 

Fuar  Ghallaich  (cold  Caithness- 
men,  cf.  Puarlochlann^  cold 
Lochlann,  and  crich  na  fuar- 
dachta,  the  country  of  coldness, 
C.  a  C,  p.  127,  §  10),  76, 
172 

Gallaibh  (Caithness),  30,  19 ; 
402,  48  ;  dat.  pi.  of  ^aZZ  (Low- 
landers),  224,  22  ;  248,  6  ;  344, 
60 

Garadh,  Garden  (of  Eden),  314, 
17;  416,  9;  420,  13;  432,  101 

Garbh-chriochan  (rough  bounds), 
between  Loch  Suineart  and 
Loch  Hourn,  the  Highlands, 
ace.  pi.  372,  47;  gen.  pi.  102, 
66;  106,  132;  260,  101;  318, 
71;  322,  50;  434,  131;  440,  72 

Gearmailt,  Germany,  260,  106 


Glascho,  Glasgow,  62,  14;  254, 
29;  376,  98 

Gleann  -  artanaig,  Glenartney, 
436,  3 

Gleann  -  ceitilein  (now  ceitlein, 
anciently  ceiteirlinn,  C.  B.  vi., 
238).  Glen  Ketland,  in  Glen 
Etive,  228,  67 

Gleann-eite  (the  glen  or  loch  of 
the  two  extended  wings  or 
pinions;  eite  =  ette  =  [p]etna  = 
penna:  ette  glosses  bipinnis, 
Sg.  67a4,  the  Low  Latin  form 
of  hipennis).  Glen  Etive,  230, 
97;  244,  27 

Gleann -fallach.  Glen  Falloch, 
382,  66 

Gleann  Freoin,  between  Gareloch 
and  Loch  Lomond,  where 
the  MacGregors  vanquished 
the  Colquhouns  in  1603,  under 
Ahster  Roy  of  Glenstrae,  who 
was  executed  in  Edinburgh, 
20  Jan.  1604.  Cf.  M'lan's 
Costumes  of  the  ClanSy  150,  190  ; 
290,  80 

Gleann-iubhair  (glen  of  yew), 
Glenure,  E.  of  Glen  Creran, 
130,  title;  132,  9;  132,  10 

Gleann  Locha  (Glen  of  the  L6ch 
Diae,  Nigra  Dea,  Black 
Goddess,  or  Dark  Dee,  Vita  S. 
Col.  i.  XXVIII.,  Notes  ii. 
XXXVII I.).  Either  of  two 
streams  might  be  the  one  to 
to  which  the  poet  refers,  242, 
7,  but  more  probably  (2)— (1) 
Gleann  Locha  Urchaidh,  be- 
tween Tyndrum  and  Dalmally ; 
(2)  Gleann  Locha  Albannaich, 
W.  of  Loch  Tay.  Stagnum 
Loch  Dice,  mentioned  in  Vitce 
S.  Col.  Capitulationest  is  in  our 


532 


NAMES  OF  PLACES 


poet  Lochaidh,  situated  inLoch- 
aber,  288,  34;  444,  125;  and 
the  neighbourhood  is  Srath 
Locha,  138,  130  ;  440,  54 

Gleann  Nodha  (Ptol.  noviosy  glen 
of  the  fresh  water),  Glenoe,  in 
Glen  Etive  side,  312,  64 

Gleann  Urchaidh,  Glenorchy,  30, 
title ;  40,  160  ;  78,  title  ;  82,  49  ; 
98,  21 ;  adj.  384,  81 

Guala-chuilinn  (holly  shoulder), 
near  the  post  office  at  the  head 
of  Loch  Etive,  228,  77 

Hanobhar,    Hanover,    142,    15 ; 

442,  112 
Hungaraidh,  Hungary,  24,  73 

I  Chalum  Cille  (the  Island  of 
Coluraba  of  the  Cell ;  the  word 
for  dove  is  in  Lat.  Columba, 
in  Heb.  lona,  or  Jonah.  The 
latter  has  no  connection  with 
lona,  which  is  a  vox  nihili, 
arising  from  a  scribe's  error  in 
mistaking  u  in  (insula)  Iowa, 
the  island  of  I,  for  w),  lona, 
358,  1 

Ileach  (of  Islay),  414,  13 

Inbhear,  in  Glen  Etive,  near 
Ardmaddie,  398,  1 

Inbhir-charnan  (estuary  of  burn 
so  named),  on  N.  side  of  Glen 
Etive,  opposite  Glen-ceitlein, 
midway  between  Kinlochetive 
and  Dalness,  228,  83 

Inbhir-ghinneachd,  S.  of  R.  Etive, 
almost  facing  Dalness,  228,  61 

Innsean,  Indies,  24,  78 

LXiRiG-GHARTAiN  (pass  of  the  small 
field),  southern  exposure  of  the 


pass  between  the  Buachaill 
Eite,  244,  35 

LMrig-mac-Bhkididh,  S.-W.  of 
Coire  a'  Cheathaich,  Allt  Lairig- 
mac-BhMdidh  is  a  tributary  of 
Abhainn  Ghlas,  which  falls  into 
the  west  end  of  Lochlyon,  44,  33 

Larach  na  Feinne  (the  site  of  the 
Fingalians),  in  Gleann  na 
Caillich,  which  marches  with 
Beinn-Achaladair,  A'  Mhaoil, 
and  Beinn-a-chreachainn,  182, 
351 

Lathurna-iochdrach  (traditionally 
from  Loarn,  son  of  Ere,  King 
of  the  Scots  in  Dalriada :  the 
Irish  Lame,  identical  in  Gaelic, 
is  similarly  derived  from 
Lathair,  son  of  Hugony  the 
Great,  Joyce,  i.,  126),  Nether 
Lorn,  276,  75 

Leacann  (hill  side),  side  of  Ben 
Dorain,  between  Bridge  of 
Orchy  and  Strone,  186,  391 

Lochaidh.     See  Gleann  Locha 

L6ch-lairig  (dark  pass),  in  the 
Braes  of  Balquhidder,  214,  72 

Lunnainn,  London,  142,  14  ;  280, 
31  ;  316,  58  ;  322,  65  ;  332,  58 ; 
336,  17  ;  338,  53 

Lurgann-na-loidhre  (bog  of  the 
hoof),  midway  between  Ais-an- 
t-Sithean  and  Conn-Ion,  182, 
349 

Machair,  /.  (plain-land),  the 
Lowlands,  2,  1 ;  250,  21 

M^m  (Jugttm,  high  saddle  between 
mountains),  between  Beinn- 
nam-fuaran  and  Beinn-a- 
chaisteil,  242,  17  ;  N.  of  Bad- 
a-MhMm,  between  Creag  Mhor 
and  Sron  Tairbh,  52,  138 


533 


NAMES  OF  PLACES 


M^ra-Charaidh  (saddleback  of  the 
rock,  or  pillar-stone,  carragh), 
S.  of  Loch  Tulla,  N.-E.  of 
Meall-a-Mhaira,  the  old  hill 
road  between  Bridge  of  Orchy 
and  Inveroran  Hotel,  204,  113 

Meall-a-bhuiridh  (hill  of  roaring, 
or  rutting),  S.  of  King's  House 
and  Craig  Dhubh,  E.  of 
Creisean,  or  W.  of  Allt- 
Charnan,  Glen  Etive,  244,  31 

Meall-tionail  (hill  of  gathering)— 
(1)  N.  side  of  Auch  Glen,  184, 
364  ;  (2)  between  Fionn-ghleann 
and  Abhainn  Ghlas,  at  the  head 
of  Lochlyon,  52,  139 

Mor-bheinn,  S.-W.  of  Comrie, 
288,  44 

Moraich,  /.  Lovat,  sea  field,  muir- 
bheach.  Din.  muir  +  mag^  cf. 
Luachair  in  muir-muige^  rushes 
of  the  sea-space.  Laws,  I., 
170,  25),  290,  57;  338,  51 

Muile,  Mull,  358,  3 ;  360,  31 

Muir  Ruadh,  Red  Sea,  314,  22 ; 
cf.  58,  111 

Obair-dheadhain  (Aber-Don), 
Aberdeen,  388,  5 

Parras,    Paradise,  314,   20;  420, 

10 
Peart,  Perth,  376,  98 
Phealan-housen,     Fellinghausen, 

126,  49 
Port-phkdruig,  Port  Patrick,  396, 

41 

Raineach    (bracken),    Rannoch, 

156,  1 ;  160,  53 
R6imh,  Rome,  330,  28 
Roinn  Eorpa,  /.  Europe,  20,  19 ; 


72,  96;  96,  196;  182,  336;  184, 
378 ;  440,  63 
Ruadh  Aisridh,  a  small  stream 
in    the   W.    side    of    Coire    a' 
Cheathaich,  44,  25 

Sasunn  (Saxon,  p.  449),  36,  88  ; 
116,60;  148,95;  262,140;  428, 
1 ;  442,  109 ;  gen.  282,  44  ;  adj. 
22,  29  ;  62,  15  ;  150,  28 

Semeuca,  Jamaica,  340,  11 

Sleibhte,  Sleat,  in  Skye,  204, 120  ; 
adj.  310,  25 

Sliabh  Shioin,  Mount  Zion,  where 
Celtic  tradition  places  the  scene 
of  the  Last  Judgment.  Cf. 
Poems  of  o^BruadaiVf  p.  17, 
note.  Ag  sgaoileadh  dhoibh  6 
an  tsliabh  Rachaidh  tu  le  Dia 
na  ngras  ;  Hyde's  Lit.  Hist,  of 
Ireland,  p.  467,  note  2  ;  422,  39 

Spainnte,  Spain,  24,  75  ;  62,  10 ; 
376,  96  ;  adj.  10,  22  ;  136,  76  ; 
310,  82 

Sraid  a'  Chuil,  the  Back  Wynd, 
Glasgow,  252,  2 

Srath  na  Dige  (strath  of  the 
dyke),  the  remains  of  which 
are  still  visible  in  the  middle 
of  Pairc-an-ruadha,  said  to 
run  from  R.  Lochay  to  Fionn- 
ghleann,  and  to  be  the  boundary 
of  the  forest  of  Mam  Lorn,  near 
Coire  a'  Cheathaich,  58,  97 

Srath  Eireann,  Strathearn,  154, 
73 

Srath  Locha  v.  Gleann  Locha 

Srath  na  Lairige  (strath  of  the 
fork,  or  high  pass),  W.  of  Coire 
a'  Cheathaich,  60,  139 

Sron  (nose,  headland,  or  promon- 
tory), S.-W.  part  of  Ben  Dorain, 
180,  314  ;  182,  340 


534 


NAMES  OF  PLACES 


Sruidhleadh,  Stirling,  438,  22 
Sruthan,  Struan,  near  Blair 
Atholl,  formerly  the  seat  of  the 
Robertsons,  292,  89 
Suidheachan  Pheadair  Mhoir,  Big 
Patrick's  Seat,  E.  of  Auch 
River,  in  Auch  Glen,  above 
Viaduct,  and  south  of  junction 
of  Allt  Coire  Chruiteir  with  R. 
Auch,  489 

Tatha,  Tay,  276,  75 

Tigh-na-sr6ine  (house  of  the  pro- 
montory), in  Gleann-ceitilein, 
off  Glen  Etive,  the  site  of  the 
present  house  in  Glen  Ketland, 
228,  65 

Tigh  an  Droma,  Tyndrum  (the 
house  of  the  ridge  or  dorsum), 
the  name  applied  to  the  old 
Inn,    which    was    nearer    the 


county    march    or    watershed 

than  is  the  site  of  the  existing 

Hotel,  482 
Tonga    (Norse    tunga,    tongue). 

Tongue,  350,  93 
Torr-a- mhuilt     (knoll    of     the 

wedder),  the  rising  ground  on 

which    is    built    the    Register 

House,  Edinburgh,  78,  2,  note, 

495 
Torr-uaine  (green  knowe),  a  few 

score  paces  W.  of  Glen  Ketland, 

244,  50 
Tuilm,  in  Glenlyon,  on  Tom-a- 

chaorainn  side,  a  mile  or  two 

S.  of  the  head  of  Lochlyon,  52, 

138 
Tur,  Tower  (of  Babel),  330,  18 

UisGE  Thurraid  (water  of  Turret), 
near  Crieff,  288,  43 


535 


PRINTED   BY 

OLIVER   AND   BOYD, 

KDINBURGH. 


PB  1648  .M3  1912  SMC 
Maclntyre,  Duncan, 
The  Gaelic  songs  of  Duncan 
Maclntyre  47076255