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THE
CELTIC MAGAZINE:
ll
JV JBflttthlB fkriobkal
DEVOTED TO THE
LITERATURE, HISTORY, ANTIQUITIES,
FOLK LORE, TRADITIONS,
AND THE
SOCIAL AND MATERIAL INTERESTS OF THE CELT
AT HOME AND ABROAD.
CONDUCTED BY
ALEXANDER MACKENZIE,
Author of the "History of the Clan Mackenzie" "The Prophecies of the Brahan Seer,'
" Historical Tales and Legends of the Highlands" Ac,
o
INVERNESS : A. & W. MACKENZIE, 10 BRIDGE STBEET.
EDINBURGH : MACLAUCHLAN & STEWART.
GLASGOW : WILLIAM LOVE.
1879.
All Rights Reserved.
PRINTED AT THE ADVERTISER OFFICE, 11 BANK STREET. INVERNESS
DA
7 SO
LIBRARY
728811
UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO
CONTENTS,
PAGE.
History of the Clan Mackenzie ... 1, 41, 81, 121, 161, 201, 249, 291, 337, 409 and 448
Federation of Celtic Societies. By Machaon 10
Fairies in the Highlands. By Torquil 13
Gaelic and Cornish. By the Rev. Donald Masson, M.A., M.D 19
Haco, the Dane. By J. E. Muddock 23, 49, and 105
William, Lord Crechtoun. By General A. Stewart-Allan 30
Directory of Celtic Societies 35
Teaching Gaelic in Schools. By Wm. Jolly, H.M.I. S. 39
Mary Morrison — A Tale. By Loda 56 and 91
Gaelic Names and Uses of Trees, Shrubs, and Plants. By C. Fergusson 68, 134, and 173
Prince Charles at Culloden. By the Very Rev. Jerome Vaughan, O.S.B 75
Transactions of the Gaelic Society — Review 77
Our Gaelic Bible. By the Rev. Donald Masson, M.A., M.D.
99, 141, 190, 210, 259, 302, and 347
First Highland Parliament — Meeting in Glasgow ... 115
A Legend of Argyll By M. A. Rose 129
Remnants of Gaelic Poetry, III. By Seanachaidh 146
The Caledonian Bank Disaster. By the Editor 148
The Gaelic Society of Inverness 153
The Glenalmond Highlanders in the Kilt 154
Dr Charles Mackay's Gaelic Etymology— A Review. By the Rev. A. D. Mackenzie 155
Captain Fraser of Knockie's Melodies— Unpublished Letters by Sir Walter Scott
and John Thomson 181
Ewen Morrison's Raid on Harris. By Maclain ..: 183
Genealogical Tables of the Mackenzies. By Major Mackenzie, Findon— A Review 197
Genealogical Notes and Queries— Cuthberts of Castlehill, &c 187 and 227
Rev. Mr Fraser, Kilmorack 270
Rosses of Invercharron ' 271 and 386
Chiefs of the Mathesons 272
Cuthberts of Drakies 273
Captain Humberston-Mackenzie, Highland Ancestry of the Right Honour-
able W. E. Gladstone, M. P., &c., &c 307
Macbean of Kinchyle, Macdonald of Aberarder, &c., &c 359
Mackenzies of Applecross and Chisholras of Teawig 389
Caithness Campbells, Forbeses of Craigivar, &c 467
" Educational News '? on Teaching Gaelic in Highland Schools 188
Buried Gaelic Songs. By the Rev. A. Maclean Sinclair 195
Ian Mactavish — A Legend. By M. A. Rose 217
Dun vegan Castle- A Gaelic Poem with Notes. By Rev. A. Macgregor, M.A. ... 232
Rose and Thistle— A Review 237
Highland and Island Scenery. By the Rev. A. Macgregor, M.A 241 and 281
Donald Macdougall— Presentation of Bust 270
Duntulm Castle— A Terrible Revenge. By M. A. Rose 274
Literary Review ... 278
The Disarming Act and the Kilt 289
John Mackay— A Tale. By the late Sir Thomas Dick Lauder, Bart. ... 311 and 328
Proposed Visit to our Transatlantic Cousins 316
RemnantsofGaelicPoetry.IV. By Seanachaidh 317
Memoir of a Highland Officer — The late Major-General Mackenzie of Gruinard.
By the Editor 321
iv. Contents.
PAGE.
Jamie Gow, the Piper — A Legend. By Maolain 355
Prince Charles Edward after Culloden. By the Rev. Allan Sinclair 361
* The Marquis of Lome and Glencoe ... 367
A Philological Ramble through a Highland Glen. By the Rev. A. Macgregor Rose 37C
The Clandonald of Keppoch. By D. C. Macpherson 368 and 424
Professor Blackie on the Social Economy of the Highlands 391
Mary Mackellar at Sea 399
Morning in the Highlands. By the Rev. Donald Masson, M.A., M.D 401
The Editor's Tour to Canada 416
Ancient Possessors and Writs of Culloden. By Charles Fraser-Mackintosh, M.P. 426
William Grant of Glen-Urquhart— A Legend. By M. A. Rose 431 and 453
Inverness New Town Hall and the Highland Clans 437
Early Scenes of Flora Macdonald's Life, &c. By the Rev. A. Macgregor, M.A. 441
Colin Chisholm in the Forests ... ... ... 468
Literary Review ... ... ... ... 474
Folk-Lore on Wells. By Mac Iain 475
CORRESPONDENCE.
Dunvegan Castle. By N. Micleod ... ... 277
Mackenzies of Hilton. By Colin Chisholm 306
Stewart's Sketches of the Highlanders. By John Mackay 358
The Scottish Bible Society's 8vo. Edition of the Gaelic Bible — Letters by Thomas
Maclauchlan, LL.D. ; The Rev. Alexander Cameron ; The Rev. Donald
Masson, M.A., M.D.; The Rev. Archibald Clerk, LL.D., &c. 381, 417, and 461
POETRY.
The Heather of Scotia. By Alex. Logan ... ... ... ... 9
Lochaber's Lone Star. By William AUaa 22
A Highland Exile's Death. By the Rev. A. Macgregor Rose 54
An Seillean agus a Chuileag. By N. Macleod 65
Et Ego in Arcadia Fui. Wm. A. Sim 90
Brahan of Steeds, translated. By Finlay Macrae ... 103
Tullochard. By William Allan ... 119
War Speech of a Highland Chief. By Alex. Logan 133
Rest in the Fight. By William Allan 159
The Highland Bride. By William Allan 172
The Crofter's Lament. By William Allan 226
The Kilt and Bonnet Blue. By Alex. Logan 236
My Hielan' Hame. By Alex. Logan 269
The Death of Norman Macleed. By Mary Mackellar 290
Returned. By Mary J. Maccoll 327
Ronald Macgregor. By William Allan 346
The Highland Sportsman's Song. By William Allan 380
Prince Charlie's Farewell to Scotland. By William Allan 436
GAELIC SONGS, WITH MUSIC.
Ho-ro mo Nigh'n Donn Bhoidheach 40
Fear an Leadain Thlaith 80
Mo Nighean Dubh tha Boidheach Dubh 120
OranGaoil 160
Oran do Shir Coinneach Ghearrloch 200
Mo Nighueag gheal Og ... 239
Main Chreag-a'-Gharaidh 320
Tuireadh nan Eilthir«ach 360
Horo cha bhi mi ga d' chaoidh ni's mo ... 400
Soraidh Slan le Fiunaraidh 440
Seinn och ho ro Seinn 476
THE
CELTIC MAGAZINE.
No. XXXVII. NOVEMBER 1878. VOL. IV.
HISTORY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE,
WITH GENEALOGIES OF THE PRINCIPAL FAMILIES.
BY THE EDITOR.
[CONTINUED.]
XV. KENNETH, third EARL OF SEAFORTH, was born at Brahan Castle
in 1635, and when he arrived at five or six years of age, his father placed
him under the care of the Rev. Earquhar MacRa, then minister of Kintail
and constable of Islandonan Castle, who kept a seminary in his house
attended by the sons of the neighbouring gentlemen who kept young Sea-
forth company.* He followed the example of his father in his latter days,
became entirely identified with the fate of Charles II., and devoted him-
self unremittingly to the services of that monarch during his exile. Earl
Kenneth, from his great stature, was known among the Highlanders as
Coinneach MOT. On the King's arrival at Garmouth in June 1650 his
reception throughout the whole of Scotland was of a most cheering
character, but the Highlanders, who had always favoured the Stuarts,
were particularly joyous on the return of their exiled king. After
the defeat of the Scotch army by Cromwell at Dunbar — a defeat
brought about entirely by the interference of the Committee of Estates
and Kirk with the duties of those who had charge of the forces, and whose
plans, were they allowed to carry them out, would have saved our country
from the first real defeat Scotland ever received at the hands of an
enemy — the King determined to find his way north and throw himself
on the patriotism and loyalty of his Highland subjects. He was, how-
ever, captured and taken back to Perth, and afterwards to Edinburgh, by
tiie Committee of Estates, on whom his attempted escape to the High-
lands " produced a salutary effect," when they began to treat him with
more respect, admitting him to their deliberations. A considerable num-
* The author of the Ardiatoul MS. writing on this subject, says : — "This might be
thought a preposterous and wrong way to educate a nobleman, but they who would con-
sider where the most of his interests lay, and how he was among his people, followers,
and dependants, on which the family was still valued, perhaps will not think so, for by
this the young lord had several advantages ; first, by the wholesome, though not delicate
or too palatable diet he prescribed to him. and used him with, he began to have a
wholesome complexion, so nimble and strong, that he was able to endure stress and
fatigue, labour and travel, which proved very useful to him in his after life ; secondly,
A
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
"her of the Highlanders were now up in arms to support the King ; but
the Committee having Charles in their power, induced him to write letters
to the Highland duet's desiring them to lay down their arms. This they
refused to do, and to enforce the King's orders a regiment, under Sir John
Brown, was despatched to the North, but they were surprised and de-
feated on the night of the 21st October by Sir David Ogilvy of Airley.
On learning this intelligence, General Leslie hastened north with a force
of 3000 cavalry. General Middleton, who had joined the King's friends
in the North, and who was then at Forfar, hearing of Leslie's advaixv,
sent him a letter enclosing a copy of "a bond and oath of engagement,
which had been entered into by Huntly, Athole, the Earl of Seaforth, and
other leading Highland chiefs, by which they had pledged themsehvs
on oath, to join firmly and faithfully together, and ' neither for 1'eur,
threatening, allurement, nor advantage, to relinquish the cause of religion,
of the king, and of the kingdom, nor to lay down their arms Avithout a
general consent ; and as the best undertakings did not escape censure and
malice, they promised and swore, for the satisfaction of all reasonable
persons, that they would maintain the true religion, as then established
in Scotland, the National Covenant and the Solemn League and Covenant,
and defend the person of the King, his prerogative, greatness, and autho-
rity, and the privileges of parliament, and the freedom of the subject'"
Middleton pointed out that the only object of himself and his friends was
to unite Scotsmen in defence of their common rights, and that, as would
be seen from this bond, the grounds on which they entered into asso-
ciation were exactly the same as those professed by Leslie himself. Con-
sidering all these circumstances, and seeing that the independence of Scot-
land was at stake, all Scotsmen should join for the preservation of their
liberties. Middleton proposed to join Leslie, to place himself under his
command, and expressed a hope that he would not shed the blood of his
countrymen or force them to shed the blood of their brethren in. self-de-
fence. These communications ended in a treaty between Leslie and the
leading Royalists on the 4th November at Strathbogie, by which Middle-
ton and his followers received an indemnity, and laid down their arms.*
he did not only learn the language but became thoroughly acquainted with, and learned
the genius of, his seveial tribes or clans of hia Highlanders, so that after wauls he was
reputed to be the fittest chief or chieftain of all superiors in the Highlands and Isles of
Scotland ; and thirdly, the early impressions of being among them, and acquaint with
the bounds, made him delight and take pleasure to be often among them and to know
their circumstances, which indeed was his interest and part of their happiness, so that it
was better to give him that fiiat step of education than that which would make him a
stranger at home, both as to his people, estate, and condition ; but when he was taken
from Mr Farquhar to a public school, he gave great evidence of his abilities and inclina-
tion for learning, and being sent in the year 1051 to the King's College at Aberdeen,
under the discipline of Mr Patrick Sandylands, before he was well settled or made any
progress in bis studies, King Charles II., after his army had been defeated at Dunbar
the year before, beingtheu at Stirling recruiting and making up his army, with which he
was resolvid to march into England, the young laird was called home in his father's
absence, who was left in Holland (as already described), to raise his men for the King's
service, and so went straight to Kiutail with the particular persons of his name, viz., the
Lairds of Pluscardy and Lochsline, his uncles ; young Tarbat, Rory of Davochmaluak,
Kenneth of Coul, Hector of Fairburn, and several others, but the Kintail men, when,
called upon, made a demur and declined to rise with him, because he was but a child,
and that his father, their master, was in life, without whom they would not move, since
the King, if he had use for him and for his followers, Blight easily bring him home."
* Balfour, vol. iv., p. 129. Highland Clans, p. 285.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 3
In 1651, after the disastrous battle of Worcester, in which Charles
was completely defeated by Cromwell, and at which we find Thomas Mac-
kenzie of Pluscardine, as one of the Colonels of foot for Inverness and
Ross, as also Alexander Cam Mackenzie, fourth son of Alexander, fifth of
Gairloch, James fled to the Continent, and, after many severe hardships
and narrow escapes, he ultimately found refuge in France, where, and in
Flanders, lie continued to reside, often in great distress and want, until
the Restoration, in May 16GO, when he returned to England, we are told,
" indolent, selfish, unfeeling, faithless, ungrateful, and insensible to shame
or reproach." The Earl of Cromarty informs us that subsequent to the
treaty agreed to between Middleton and Leslie at Strathbogie, " Seaforth
joined the King at Stirling. After the fatal battle of "Worcester he con-
tinued a close prisoner till the Restoration of Charles." He was excepted
from Oliver Cromwell's Act of Grace and Pardon in 1664, and his estate
was forfeited without any provision being allowed out of it for his lady
and family. He supported the cause of the King as long as there Avas an
opportunity of fighting for it in the field, and when forced to submit to
the opposing powers of Cromwell and the Commonwealth, he was com-
mitted to prison, where, with " much firmness of mind and nobility of
soul," he endured a tedious captivity for many years, until Charles II. was
recalled, when his old and faithful friend Seaforth was released, and became
a favourite at his licentious and profligate Court. During the remainder of
his life little or nothing of any importance is known regarding him, except
that he lived in the favour and merited smiles of his sovereign, in undis-
puted possession and enjoyment of the extensive estates and honours of
his ancestors, which, through his faithful adherence to the House of
Stuart, had been nearly overwhelmed and lost during the exile of the
second Charles and his own captivity. Regarding the state of matters
then, the Laird of Applecross, a contemporary writer, says that the
" rebels, possessing the authority, oppressed all the loyal subjects, and
him with the first, his estate was overburthened to its destruction, but
nothing could deter him so as to bring him to forsake his King or his
duty. Whenever any was in the field for him, he was one, seconding
that falling cause with all his power, and when he was not in the field
against the enemy, he was in the prison by him until the restoration of
the King."
Seaforth, after he was restored to liberty, received a commission of the
Sheriffship of Ross on the 23d of April 1662, afterwards renewed to
himself and his eldest son, Kenneth, jointly, on 31st July 1675, and
when he had set matters right at Brahan, he visited Paris, leaving his
Countess, Isabella Mackenzie, daughter of Sir John Mackenzie of Tarbat,
and sister to the first Earl of Cromarty, in charge of his domestic affairs
in the North. During his absence occurred that incident, already so
well-known to the reader that it is unnecessary to reproduce it here, which,
it is said, ended in the Brahan Seer uttering the famous and remarkable
prediction regarding the fate of the family of Seaforth, which has been so
literally fulfilled.*
It appears from the following that a coolness existed between
* For this Prophecy and its wonderful fulfilment, see " The Prophecies of the
Brahaa Seer," by Alex. Mackenzie. A. & W. Mackenzie, Inverness, 1878.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
the Mackenzies and the Munros : — " At Edinburgh, the 23d day of
January, 1<>'>1 years, it is condescended and agreed as follows, that
is to say, We, Kenneth, Earl of Seaforth, and John Munro, younger
of Fowlis, taking to our consideration how prejudicial it hath been
to both our families that there hath not been of a long time, so
good a correspondence betwixt us as was befitting men of that con-
junction and neighbourhood, and of what advantage it will be to us,
to live in good correspondence and confederacy one with another, and to
maintain and concur for the weal of either. For the which causes, We, the
said noble Lord and John Munro, younger of Fowlis, taking burthen on us
for our friends, kinsmen, and all others whom we may stop or let, do, by
these presents, bind and oblige us and our heirs faithfully upon our
honours to maintain and concur with each other, for the good of botli and
our foresaids, and to prevent as much as in us lies, what may be to the
prejudice of either of us, or of any in whom either of us maybe concerned
in all time coming, as witness these presents subscribed by us the place,
day, month, and year, above written and mentioned, before these witn
Thomas Mackenzie of Pluscardine, Colin Mackenzie of Redcastle, Lieut-
Colonel Alex. Munro, and Major Alex. Munro, Commissar of Stirling,
Sic Siil'«<:ril>itt(r, Seafort, John Munro."
His Lordship's heir and successor, Kenneth, Lord Kintail, was " un-
doubted Patron of the Paraich Kirk and Parochin of Inverness," for in
consideration of Robert Robertson, Burgess of Inverness, paying a certain
sum for the teind sheaves and parsonage teinds of all and sundrie these 50
acres and a-half of land of the territerie and burgage lands of the burgh of In-
verness, "therefore will ye us, the said Kenneth, Lord Kintail, with consent
foresaid, as having right in manner above-written — and as the said Ken-
neth, Marl "I' Seaforth, as taking the full burden in and upon us for the
said Kenneth, Lord Kintail, our son, to the effect after-rehearsed, to have
sold, annailzed, and dispoued, A;c., &c., and we, the said Kenneth, Lord
Kintail, as principale, and the said Kenneth, Earl of Seaforth, our father,
as cautioneer, iKrc., &c.*
Kenneth was married early in life, as already stated, to Isabel, daughter
of Sir John Mackenzie of Tarbat, father of the first Earl of Cromarty,
by whom he had issue, first, Kenneth Og, who succeeded him ; second,
John Mackenzie of Assynt, -who had a son, Alexander, by Sibella,
daughter of Alexander Mackenzie, third of Applecross, by whom he had
one son, Kenneth, who, in 1723, died without issue ; and third, Colonel
Alexander Mackenzie, also designed of Assynt, and of whom the line of
the last Lord Seaforth, Francis Humberstone Mackenzie ; another son,
1 1 ugh, died young. Of four daughters, Margaret married James, second Lord
Duil'us ; Ann died unmarried ; Isabel, first married Roderick Macleod of
Macleod, and secondly, Sir Duncan Campbell of Lochnell ; and Mary
married Alexander Macdonald of Glengarry. This, the third Earl died in
December 16 78, and was succeeded by his eldestson.
XVI. KENNETH, fourth EARL OF SEAFORTH and fifth LORD MACKENZIE
OF KIXTAIL, who was by the Highlanders called Coinneach Og, to distin-
* Disposition recorded in the Commissary Court Books of In vernens, dated at
Fortrose, 17th Jane 1C98.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
guish him from his father, and he at an early age discovered the benefits of
the faithful adherence of his father to the fortunes of Charles II. In 1678
we find his name among those chiefs who, by a proclamation issued on the
10th October of that year, were called upon to give bond and caution for
the security of the peace and quiet of the Highlands, which the leaders of
the clans were bound to give, not only for themselves but for all of their
name descended from their house. Notwithstanding all the laws and
orders hitherto passed, the inhabitants and broken men in the Highlands
were " inured and accustomed to liberty and licentiousness " during the
late troubles and " still presumed to sorn, steal, oppress, and comit other
violences and disorders." The great chiefs were commanded to appear in
Edinburgh on the last Tuesday of February 1G79, and yearly thereafter on
the second Thursday of July, to give security, and to receive instructions
as to the peace of the Highlands. . To prevent any excuse for non-attend-
ance, they were declared free from caption for debt or otherwise while
journeying to and from Edinburgh, and other means were to be taken which
should be thought necessary or expedient until the Highlands would be
finally quieted, and " all these wicked, broken, and disorderly men utterly
rooted out and extirpated." A second proclamation was issued, in which
the lesser barons — heads of the several branches of clans — whose names
are given, were to go to Inverlochy by the 20th of November following,
as they are, by reason of their mean condition, not able to come in to
Edinburgh and find caution, and there to give in bonds and caution for
themselves, their men tenants, servants, and indwellers upon their lands,
and all of their name descended of their family, to the Earl of Caithness,
Sir James Campbell of Lawers, James Menzies of Culdares, or any two of
them. These lists are most interesting, showing, as they do, the chiefs who
were considered the great and lesser chiefs in those days. There are four
Mackenzies in the former but none in the latter.*
Kenneth was served heir male to his great-grandfather, Lord Mackenzie
of Kintail, in the lands in the Lordship of Ardmeanach and Earldom of
Eoss, on the 1st March 1681; was made a member of the Privy Council
by James II. on his accession to the throne in 1685 ; and chosen a Com-
panion of the most noble Order of the Thistle, on the revival of that
ancient order in 1687. The year after the Revolution, which finally and
for ever lost the British throne to the House of Stuart, Seaforth accom-
panied his royal master to France, but when that unfortunate Prince re-
turned to Ireland in the following year to make a final effort for the re-
covery of his kingdom, he was accompanied by Earl Kenneth. Here he
took part in the siege of Londonderry and other engagements, and as an
expression of gratitude, James created him Marquis of Seaforth, under
which dignity he repeatedly appears in different legal documents. This
well-meant and well-deserved honour canie too late in the falling fortunes
and declining powers of the ex-sovereign, and does little more than mark, the
sinkingmonarch's testimonial and confirmation of the steady adherence of the
chiefs of Clan Kenneth to the cause of the Stuarts. In Dundee's letter to
" the Laird of Macleod," dated "Moy, June 23, 1689,"t in. which he details
* For full lists, see Antiquarian Notes, pp. 184 and 187.
t About this time Viscount Tarbat boasted to General Mackenzie of his great in-
fluence with his countrymen, especially the Clan Mackenzie, and assured him "that
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
his pn>spi'i-is, and gives a list of those who arc to join him, he says, " My
Lord Seaibrth will be in a few dayes from Ireland to raise his men for the
King's service," but the fatal shot which closed the career of that brilliant
star and champion of the Stuart dynasty at Killiecrankie, arrested the
pro-Tess of the family of Seaforth in the fair track to all the honours
which a grateftd dynasty could bestow; nor was this powerful family
singular in this respect — seeing its flattering prospects withered at, per-
haps, a fortunate moment for the prosperity of the British Empire.
Jealousies have now passed away on that subject, and it is not our busi-
ness here to discuss, or confound the principles of contending loyalties.
To check the proceedings of the Clan. Mackay placed a garrison of a
hundred Mackays in Brahan Castle, the principal seat of the Earl of Sea-
forth, and an equal number of Bosses in Castle Leod, the mansion of Vis-
count Tarbat, both places of strength, and advantageously situated for
watching the movements of the Jacobite Mackenzies.*
Earl Kenneth seems to have left Ireland immediately after the Battle
of the Boyne was fought and lost, and to have returned to the Highlands.
The greater part of the North was hostile to the Government at the time,
and General Mackay found himself obliged to march north, with all pos-
sible haste, before a general rising could take place under Buchan, who now
commanded the Highlanders who stood out for King James. Mackay ar-
rived within four hours' march of Inverness before Buchan knew of his
approach, who was then at that place " waiting for the Earl of Seaforth's and
other Highlanders whom he expected to join him in attacking the town."
Hearing of the enemies proximity he at once retreated, crossed the river
Ness, and retired along the north side of the Beauly Firth, through the
Black Isle. In this predicament, Seaforth, fearing the consequences likely
to result to himself personally from the part he had acted throughout, sent
two of his friends to Mackay with offers of submission and of whatever
securities might be required for his good behaviour in future, informing
him that although he was bound to appear on the side of King James,
he never entertained any design of molesting the Government forces or
of joining Buchan in his attack on Inverness. The General replied that
he could accept no other security than the surrender of his person, and
conjured him to comply, as he valued his own safety and the preservation
of his family and people, assuring him that in the case of 'surrender he
should be detained in civil custody in Inverness, and treated with the
respect due to his rank, until the will of the Government should be made
known. Next day his mother, the Countess Dowager of Seaforth, and
Sir Alexander Mackenzie of Coul, went and pleaded with Mackay for a miti-
gation of the terms proposed, but finding the General inflexible, they
then informed him that Seaforth would accede to any conditions
agreed upon between them and Mackay. It was stipulated at this in-
terview, that Seaforth should deliver himself up to be kept a prisoner
though Seaforth should come to his own country and among bis friends, he (Tarbat)
would overturn in eight days more than the Earl could advance in six weeks ; yet he
proved as backward as Seaforth or any other of the Clan. And though liedcastle, Coul,
and others of the name of Mackenzie came, they fell not on final methods, but protested
a great deal of affection for the cause." — Malay's Memoirs, pp. 25 and 237.
* Life of General Mackay, by John Mackay of Kockfield, pp. 36-37.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
in Inverness, until the Privy Council decided as to his ultimate disposal.
"With the view to conceal this step on the part of the Earl from the Clan
and his other Jacobite friends, it was agreed that he should allow himself
to be seized at one of his seats as if he were taken by surprise, by a party of
horse under Major Mackay. He, however, disappointed the party sent out
to seize him, in excuse of which, he and his mother, in letters to Mackay,
pleaded the delicate state of his health, which, they urged, would suffer
from imprisonment. The Earl can hardly be blamed for declining to
place himself absolutely at the disposal of such a body as the Privy
Council of Scotland then was — many of whom would not hesitate to have
sacrificed him, if by so doing they saw a chance of obtaining a share of
his extensive estates.
Mackay became so irritated at the deception practised upon him
that he resolved to treat the Earl's vassals " with all the rigour of military
execution," and sent him word that if he did not surrender forthwith
according to promise, he should carry out his instructions from the
Privy Council, enter his country with fire and sword, and seize all pro-
perty belonging to himself or to his vassals as lawful prize ; and, lest
Seaforth should suspect that he had no intention of executing his terrible
threat, he immediately ordered three Dutch Regiments from Aberdeen to
Inverness, and decided upon leading a competent body of horse and foot
in person from the garrison at Inverness, to take possession of Brahan
Castle. He, at the same time, wrote instructing the Earl of Sutherland,
Lord Reay, and the Laird of Balnagown, to send 1000 of their men, under
Major Wishart, an experienced officer acquainted with the country, to
quarter in the more remote districts of the Seaforth estates, should that
extreme step become necessary. Having, however, a friendly disposition
towards the followers of Seaforth, on account of their being " all Protes-
tants and none of the most dangerous enemies," and being more anxious
to get hold of the EarFs person than to ruin his friends, he caused in-
formation of his intentions to be sent to Seaforth's camp by some of his
own party, as if from a feeling of friendship for him, the result being that,
contrary to Mackay 's expectations, Seaforth surrendered himself — thus
relieving him from a disagreeable duty,* — and he was committed
prisoner to the Castle of Inverness. Writing to the Privy Council about
the state of the disaffected chiefs at the time, Mackay says, "I believe it
shall fare so with the Earl of Seaforth, that is, that he shall haply submit
when his country is ruined and spoyled, which is the character of a true
Scotsman, wyse behinde the liand.\ By warrant, dated 7th October 1690,
the Privy Council directed Mackay " to transport the person of Kenneth,
Earl of Seaforth, with safety from Inverness to Edinburgh, in such way
and manner as he should think fit." This was done, and on the 6th
of November following, he was confined a prisoner within the Castle of
Edinburgh, but, little more than a year afterwards, was liberated on the
* Though the General " was not immediately connected with the Seaforth family
himself, some of his near relatives were, both by the ties of kindred and of ancient
friendship. For these, and other reasons, it may be conceived what joy and thankful-
ness to Providence he felt for the result of this affair, which at once relieved him from
a distressing dilemma, and promised to put a speedy period to his labours in Scotland."
— Mackay's Life of General Mackay.
t Letters to the Privy Council, dated 1st September 1690.
8 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
7tli January 1692, on finding caution to appear when called upon, and on
condition that he would not go ten miles beyond Kdinburgh. J le appears IK it
to have kept within these conditions, for he is shortly afterwards again in
prison, but almost immediately makes his escape ; is again apprehended
on the 7th of May, the same year, at 1'encaitland, and again kept coniined
in the Castle of Inverness, from which he is ultimately finally liberated on
giving satisfactory security for his peaceable behaviour.*
The following is the order for his release : — " William R., Right trusty
and right-well-beloved Councillors, &c., we greet you well. "Whereas we
are informed that Kenneth, Earl of Seaforth, did surrender himself
prisoner to the commander of our garrison at Inverness, and has thrown
himself on our Royal mercy ; it is our will and pleasure, and we hereby
authorise and require you to set the said Earl of Seaforth at liberty, upon
his finding bail and security to live peaceably under our Government and
to compear before you when called. And that you order our Advocate
not to insist in the process of treason waged against him, until our further
pleasure be know therein. For doing whereof this shall be your warrant,
so we bid you heartily farewell. Given at our Court at Kensington, the
first day of March 1696-7, and of our reign the eighth year. By his
Majesty's command. (Signed), "TCLLIBARDIXE."
During the remaining years of his life Seaforth appears to have lived
mainly in France. His necessary absence from his country during the
protraction of political irritation and, indeed, the exhausted state of his
paternal revenues, would have rendered his residence abroad highly ex-
pedient, and we find accordingly discharges for feu-duties granted, viz. : —
" I, Maister Alexander Mackenzie, lawful brother to the Marquis of Sea-
forth, grants me to have received from John Mathesone, all and hail the
somme of seaven hundred and twentie merks Scots money, and that in
complete payment of his duties and of the lands of both the Fernacks and
Achnakerich, payable Martimass ninety (1690), dated 22d November
1694;" and another by "Isabel, Countess Dowager of Seaforth, in 1696,
tested by ' Rorie Mackenzie, servitor to the Marquis of Seaforth.'" There
is another original discharge by ' ' me, Isabel, Countess Dowager of Sea-
forth, Lady Superior of the grounds, lands, and oyes under-written," to
Kenneth Mackenzie of Achterdonell, dated at Fortrose, 15th November
1697. Signed, "Isobell Seaforth. "t All this time it may be presumed
Earl Kenneth was in retirement, and taking no personal part in the man-
agement of his estates for the remainder of his life.
His clansmen, however, seem to have been determined to protect his
interest as much as lay in their power. A certain Sir John Dempster of
Pitliver had advanced a large sum of money to Seaforth and his mother,
the Countess Dowager, and obtained a decrcet of Parliament to have
the money refunded to him. The cash was not forthcoming, and Sir
John obtained letters of horning and arrestment against the Earl and his
mother, and employed several officers to execute them, but they returned the
letters unexecuted, not finding notum accessum in the Earl's country, and
they refused altogether to undertake the due execution of them, unless
* History of the Highland Clans, Records of the Priyy Council, and Mackay's
Memoirs.
t Allangrange Service, on which occasion the originals were produced.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
they were assisted by some of the King's forces in the district. Sir John
petitioned for this, and humbly craved their Lordships to allow him
" a competent assistance of his Majesty's forces at Fort- William, Inverness,
or where they are lying adjacent to the places where the said diligence is
to be put in execution to siipport and protect the messengers " in the due
execution of the legal diligence against the Earl and his mother, " by horn-
ing, poinding, arrestment, orotherways/'aiid to recommend to the Governor
at Fort- William or the commander of the forces at Inverness, to grant a
suitable force for the purpose. The Lords of the Privy Council, having
considered the petition, recommended Sir Thomas Livingstone, commander-
in-chief of his Majesty's forces, to order some of these officers already men-
tioned, to furnish the petition "with competent parties of his Majesty's
forces" to support and protect the messengers in the due execution of the
"legal diligence upon the said decreet of Parliament."* We have not
learned the result, but it is not likely to have proved very profitable to
Sir John Dempster.
Kenneth married Lady Frances Herbert, daughter of William, Marquis
of Powis, an English nobleman, by whom he had issue, one son, William,
and a daughter, Mary, who married John Careyl, Esq. He died at Paris
in 1701, and was succeeded by his only son.
(To be Continued.)
THE HEATHER OF SCOTIA.
A song for the heather, the glory -crown'd heather,
The pride of old Scotia, the land of the brave !
To its praise let us blend our glad voices together,
It smiles on the free but it knows not the slave !
In beauty it blooms upon liberty's track,
Where valour and virtue hath chosen a home,
And where our forefathers triumphant rolled back
The tide of invasion, the legions of Rome !
A song for the heather, the glory-crown'd heather, &c.
Among it our light-hearted maidens so sweet,
With lovers whose bosoms are faithful and bold,
To soul-stirring numbers shake nimbly the feet,
Pour'd forth by the blythe sounding warpipe of old !
A song for the heather, the glory-crown'd heather, &c.
High o'er it the bright star of peace, fraught with fame,
A rich, golden light sheds on mountain and glen ;
But sound the proud slogan in freedom's lov'd name,
And teem will the heather with noble-soul'd men !
A song for the heather, the glory-crown'd heather, &c.
The Scot though he roams on earth's loveliest shore,
This wish, ever-cherished, his manly breast fills,
Oh ! when will kind Fate to its birth-place restore,
A heart throbbing wild for its dear heather hills ?
A song for the heather, the glory-crown'd heather, &c.
EDINBURGH. ALEX. LOGAN.
* For this document see "Antiquarian Notes," pp. 118-119.
10 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
FEDEKATIOX OF CELTIC SOCIETIES.
THE recent movement in favour of the union of all Highland Societies
owes its origin to two powerful desires that have arisen in the minds of
Highland patriots. First there is an anxiety to ameliorate the condition
of the people, secondly, there is a wish for better political organisation.
Are these aims laudable ? Are the objects sought of pressing importance?
Are the means fixed upon adequate to the ends in view ? "What is the
ultimate meaning and what would be the probable issue of the national
federation desiderated ? These are the questions which offer themselves
to many at this juncture. To some this new patriotic cry is vanity and
vexation of spirit. Things, we are told, are pretty well as they are, or
they are so bad that there is no means of mending them ; and there
is no alternative but to let events take their swing, or to move off, bag
and baggage, to some Utopia rendered charming by the kindly but decep-
tive haze that softens into beauty the rough places far away. So speak
our oracles, and so they answer each other. When our authorities are
contradictory the only resource left for us, if we would not walk over the
cliffs, is to trust to the light of our own reason. Well, then, what are the
facts of the case ? The industrial facts are these, that strong families are
barely able to supply themselves with the necessaries of life, that labour
is a drug in the Highland market, unremunerative whether applied to the
croft or exchanged for capital, inert and unskilled, because there is nothing
either to quicken or to develop it. The social facts are even more
distressing. Independence cowers in the chill of want. Commercial
honesty disintegrates in the long struggle with despair. ]STeighbourliness
darkens into feud under the shadow of self interest. A piece of common
in the middle of a township forms a bone of contention for half the com-
munity. Men of the same kith and kin, members of the same clan,
fellows whose fathers would have died for each other, are here at war and
discord. Alliance, good-feeling, trust, are here supplanted by disunion,
envy, and jealousy. Misery there is indeed, but there is that which is
worse than misery — evil We ask as the sons of those who held these
mountains for two thousand years how these things are so. We ask it as
the representatives of the clan system, as the offspring of those who never
betrayed a friend or cringed before a foe, as the descendents of warriors
who won for their allies their proudest honours, yet fought not for honours
or for reward, but for loyalty and for duty. Dire agencies must have
been at work to produce such terrible social deterioration, such utter com-
mercial bankruptcy. The fault is not that of the people. There is good
feeling among Highlanders from home, and there is comfort among
many of them too. Nor is nature to blame. There are fat sheep and
straight-backed cattle, and lich red trout and plenty of salmon north
of the Tay. There are as smiling corn-fields too as ever waved
between the mountains and Marathon or between Marathon and the
sea. The passes of the Grampians are not steeper than the passes of
Athos ; and Skye and Mull and Tyree are not more rocky than the
" foaming Cyclades." Freedom and reason have more to do with the
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. ll
social weal than the contour of mountains. Freedom forsook the Greeks
and straightway " all except their sun was set." Eoman policy disin-
tregated the political coherence of the East. What is destroying High-
land union? Who is Pontius Pilate here? What are the decrees of
Ccesar Augustus ? Let him who will look around hitn and see. English
law owes much to the Roman forum ; has the lesson of provincial govern-
ment been learned so faithfully too ? When Pilate wants to do the Celts
a favour does his clemency extend only to Tonal MacTavish, and does the
favour consist in a slice of common which Pilate has no more right to
than Tonal himself] And if this act of kindness foments social strife, is
it not really a very cunning and effective piece of policy 1 If Tugal too is
ready to doff his jacket when Tonal comes, is he not equally ready to
doff his bonnet when Pilate appears 1 Here then is an important task to
perform — to make Tugal keep on his jacket and his bonnet too. Inde-
pendence and co-operation are the ends. Freedom and reasoning are the
means. Here are planks for the platform of the Highland Sanhedrim.
But more important than Pilate is Csesar Augustus. The wattle
sword of the clown is comparatively harmless in the hands of a giant ;
but the gleaming brand of ^Damocles is dangerous in the grasp of an
infant. Thus he who makes laws has more influence over the destinies of
a people than he who enforces them. But there are times when Heiod
himself takes up the steel ; then indeed may Israel tremble. Has such a
time appeared in our history ? Our fathers may have been stubborn and
perhaps blind in their policy a hundred years ago. We are willing to
grant they were ; yet we are not ashamed of the part they acted. Hearts
so true, devotion so absolute merited kindness, not persecution, the
favour of kings, not their ban. If the policy of the Highlanders lacked
intelligence, the policy that crushed them lacked not only intelligence but
humanity. Well, what followed the '46 ? Proscription — people dared
not use their own garb, confiscation — the clans' right in the soil was lost,
treachery — the chiefs turned their backs on the clans, tyranny — action,
thought, and feeling were suppressed, extirpation — the sword proceeded
to hold what it had conqured, misery — every condition of reasonable com-
fort was reft away — in a word political chaos, social discord, and material
ruin. Honour to whom hououi is due. These, 0, Caesar ! are thine.
Some of the causes which then arose have since resulted in gigantic
issues. Their magnitude encompasses us on every side. They fetter and
chain us with institutions rendered awful by time, sacred by the name of law,
and terrible by the fasces of authority. What are we to do ? Our political
chains are so heavy that we cannot even shake them. Our friends from
home cannot hear their clang. Some of us are asleep, drugged with the
slave's virtue, contentment. Bankruptcy, contumely, misery, staring us in
the face, the cruel goads of Herod at our backs, the jealousy and distrust
of our race on either side — what is to be done ? Shall we fling away the
claymore, and fly every man as he is able? Never ! We have shown
our patience, now is the time to show our courage. There are no fetters
so hard but steel will cut them, and reason is sharper than steel, and more
cunning in overthrowing tyranny. Time was when the voice of reason was
lost among the clangour of arms. It was so at Culloden ; we suffer the
consequences now. Let it be so no more. For a century the Highlanders
12 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
have groaned under a policy iniquitous in its principle, cruel in its ad-
ministration, and disastrous in its issues. But that policy is one which
would not have been inaugurated now although it is tolerated and even
defended with all its blunders and shortcomings. The system of Govern-
ment with which AVC have to deal is the most liberal and enlightened in
the world, and what we need is patience so as to reason out and determine
the remedies fitted to heal our infirmities, and courage so as to proclaim
fearlessly what we believe and know to be true.
Urgent then is the need for a Highland Council What we want is
something like the Comitia Plebata of the Romans — a council to deliberate
in great social and political questions, to recommend reforms to the
Government, and to deal executively with Highland industry — in general,
a council to devise means fitted to effect the political, social, and indus-
trial amelioration of the people.
An institution such as is here desiderated would not enly meet the
present exigencies of Highland necessity, but it would supply a practical
answer to one of the most contested questions of the day. The strife be-
tween centralization and local government is only deepening. Does not
the golden mean lie here1? A council that is deliberative but not legisla-
tive reflects local needs without disintegrating national coherence.
Courage then ! The dawn of a new epoch in Highland history is
already brightening in the East. On the 20th day of this month delegates
from all the Highland Societies in the United Kingdom will meet in
Glasgow to deal with the question of Federation. Perhaps that day
will witness the establishment of the new Highland Parliament. And if
this glorious end should be accomplished Britain will be stronger, as a
giant is stronger when the fetters are struck off fiom a confined limb, the
Highlander will be happier, as every man is happier the more liberty he
has to act according to the law of his being, magnificent possibilities will
be created, momentous issues will be precipitated, and the conscience of
Highland History and the demands of universal justice will, in a measure,
be satisfied.
Courage then ! The battle we fight is the battle not of the High-
lands only ; it is the battle of Great Britain, it is the battle of freedom,
of truth, of reason, of humanity.
MACHAON.
"NETHER-LOCHABER," OF THE " INVERNESS COURIER," ON THE
HISTORY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE.— The Rev. Alexander
Stewaat, F.S.A.S., the Nether-Lochaber correspondent of the Inverness
Courier, writes in the following very flattering terms : — " Allow me to
congratulate you on your History of the Mackenzies, which, when com-
pleted, will be one of the most interesting things of the kind in the lan-
guage. Your last chapter is particularly good, interesting, and well
written ; and I am glad to see you speak out like a man and a Highlander
of the right stamp in praise of the great Marquis of Montrose, certainly
one of the very noblest characters in Scottish history."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 13
FAIKIES IN THE HIGHLANDS.
A BELIEF in fairies prevailed very much in the Highlands of old, nor at
this day is it quite obliterated. The gently rising conical hills were as-
signed them as dwellings, and these were nam°d sometimes Sin-shill, the
habitation of a multitude, or Sitheanan — Sith, peace and dunan, a
mound. This name was derived from the practice of the Druids, who
were wont occasionally to retire to green eminences to administer justice,
establish peace, and compose differences between parties. As that vener-
able order taught a Saoghal, or world beyond the present, their followers,
when they were no more, fondly imagined that the seats where they exercised
a virtue so beneficial to mankind were still inhabited by them in their
disembodied state — and though inclined still to peace (hence named Daoine-
Sithe, or men of peace), they have become not absolutely malevolent but
peevish and repining, envying mankind their more complete and substan-
tial enjoyment. They are supposed to enjoy in their subterraneous
recesses a sort of shadowy happiness — a tinsel grandeur which, however,
they would willingly exchange for the more solid joys of mortality.
Those grassy eminences where they celebrate their nocturnal festivities
" by the light of the moon," are mostly by the sides of lakes and rivers,
and by the skirts of thu,se many are still afraid to pass after sunset.
About a mile beyond the source of the Forth above Loch Con there
is a place called Coire Shithean, orthe cove of the men of peace, which is still
supposed to be a favourite place of their residence, and on the banks of
the river Beauly there are many favourite spots for fairy homes. It is
believed that if on Halloween any person alone goes round one of these
little hillocks nine times towards the left a door will open by which he
will be admitted into their subterraneous abodes. Many, it is said,
mortal men have been entertained in their secret recesses. These have
been received into the most splendid apartments and regaled with the
most sumptuous banquets and delicious wines, and associated with their
females, who surpass the daughters of men in beauty.
The seemingly happy inhabitants pass their time in festivity and in
dancing to the softest music. But unhappy is the mortal who joins in
their joys or partakes of their dainties. By this indulgence he forfeits for
ever the society of men, and is bound down irrevocably to the condition
of a Sithich, or man of peace, unless released by one possessed of the
countervailing spell. They are supposed to be peculiarly anxious to
strengthen their ranks by the acquisition of beautiful children, maidens,
and wives, and to lose no opportunity of doing so by fair or foul means,
as tradition abundantly has established, a year and a day being, however,
allowed for a return to human society. The wife of a Lothian farmer had
been snatched away by the fairies. During the year which followed she
had repeatedly appeared on Sundays in the midst of her children combing
their hair. On one of these occasions she was accosted by her husband,
when she instructed him how to rescue her at the next Hallow-eve pro-
ces ion. The farmer coned his lesson carefully, and on the appointed
d-i v proceeded to a plot of furze to await the arrival of the procession. It
ciiuie, but the ringing of the fairy bridles so confused them that the train
14 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
passed before he could recover himself sufficiently to use the intended
spell. The unearthly laughter of the abductors and the passionate lamen-
tations of his wife informed him that she was lost to him for ever. An-
other woman, as reported in Highland tradition, was conveyed in days
of yore into the secret recesses of one of these Sithe Dunan. There she
was recognised by one who had formerly been an ordinary mortal, but
who had by some fatality become associated with the Shithichean. This ac-
quaintance, still retaining some portion of human benevolence, warned
her of her danger, and counselled her, as she valued her liberty, to abstain
from eating and drinking with them for a certain space of time. She
complied with the counsel of her friend, and when the period was over
she found herself again upon earth restored to the society of mortals,
It is also said that when she examined the food which had been presented
to her, and the ornaments with which she had been decorated, all of
which had appeared so enticing to the eyo, they were found, now that the
enchantment had been removed, the most worthless rubbish.
The following legendary tale is told in Strathglass, and is tinged
with the colours of Celtic poetry and imagination. The story is of
the same class with "Washington Irving's "Kip Van "Winkle," and it
shows how universal talus of this description once were, peopling
alike the forests of Germany, the wildernesses of the New "World, and
the glens of Scotland. " Among the Braes of Strathglass is a small
round knoll, overgrown with birch, and watered by the romantic river
Glass. The spot goes under the name of Beatha Og, or young birch,
and has long been celebrated as a chosen abode of the fairies. One
New- Year's eve or Hogmanay (vide Burns or Jamieson's Dictionary),
when the people of the vale were making merry with pipe and dance, two
trusty swains went for some whisky, to assist in prolonging the festivities.
On their way home, while they carried an anker, or ten gallons, in a cask
slung over their shoulders in a woodie (a twisted bundle of birch twigs),
they had occasion to pass through the Beatha Og, when suddenly they
heard music proceeding as if from under the ground. They looked round,
and observing an opening on the side of the hill, they boldly entered.
In a twinkling our adventurous Highlanders found themselves among a
set of happy looking beings — male and female — all dancing, many of the
group being old acquaintances whom they had, years before, assisted to
carry to the grave. Drink was ottered them, and the foremost of the two
partook of the unblest cheer. His companion, suspecting all was not right,
refused to participat », and endeavoured to prevail on his friend to return
home. Donald, however, seemed obstinately wedded to the dance, and
the good things before him, and refused to stir. The other departed
alone, and gave a narrative of the whole adventure to his neighbours at
the wedding. They searched for him everywhere, listening at every point
and tree ; but instead of unearthly ministrelsy they heard only the waving
of the silvery birches and the gentle rippling of the stream. Daylight
came, and the search was renewed, but in vain.
"Years slipped away without bringing any tidings of the lost man, and
the whole Strath mourned for him. At length, exactly seven years al'tiT-
wards, on New- Year's eve, the people were again met to welcome in the
coming year. The companion of the lost man walked forth in the direc-
tion of the Beatha Og, to grieve for the fate of his friend. As he strolled
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 15
pensively along, he started at hearing the sound of fairy music — the same
that had before led him astray — and he made up to the spot. There was
the same opening in the brae, and, entering it, he found the same merry
party with his long lost friend dancing like a true Highlander. The mirth
and hilarity of the party seemed ominous, and the man, therefore, pulled
out his skeen-dhu, and, fastening it in Donald's coat, began to pull him
away. 'Now, it is a well-known fact in fairy lore, that, amongst their
other good qualities, steel and iron have the power of depriving fairies of
all potency over the human person. Donald was, accordingly, extricated
from the hands of the good folk, but IK/, before he had expressed his sur-
prise at the hastiness of his friend in wishing to leave so merry a party.
Upon his arrival at home, the joy of his family may be easily conceived ;
nor was Donald's astonishment less at finding the stir that had been made
about his absence. His girls had grown to be almost women ; the roses
on his wife's cheek had been nipt by time and grief, 'and several of his
neighbours had died. Upon feeling the shoulder on which he carried the
whisky he found that the woodie, by the weight of the cask pressing it
for so long a period, had sunk down to the bone, and that some bread and
cheese, which he took with him, had crumbled into dust. Yet the seven
years of fairy bliss appeared short as a dream !"*
There is scarcely in all Scotland a tract of scenery so gorgeously and
wildly — so magnificently — grand, and, at the same time, savage as the sur-
roundings of Loch-Maree — so suited to be the home of fairy tribes. The
ranges of mountains abound in the elements of the picturesque and awful
— beginning in abrupt precipices or bluffs, and swells beside the clear,
dark waters of the loch or at its bank, rising from the bed of the lake
clothed to the very edge with the young birch and the long grasses from
which peep the lily sedges and the meadow queen. Until of late years,
and more particularly until last year, the wild territory embraced within
its circuit was comparatively an unknown land to the tourist. Yet here
nature can be contemplated in all its grandeur, and the traveller who
ventures to explore these scenes will rarely fail to express his delight.
Each islet and bay has a name suggestive of its character. Over these
the mighty crags rise in ridges to the height of hundreds of yards,
and throw their dark shadows over the still, dark waters below. Nothing
can be grander than to stand upon the silent shore strewn with big masses
of boulder stones, and gaze up to the pinnacles high overhead, where the
hawk whistles shrilly as he poises himself for an instant ere he swoops
down upon his prey, and the grey eagle floats majestically on his pinions
through the clear blue of the still summer sky.
The wanderer who wishes to obtain a true idea of solitude has only to
ascend one of those giants and look around him. There nature seems en-
tirely dead. No sound will break upon his ears — upon a calm day — save
the drowsy hum of the mountain bee rising like the tone of a distant fairy
trumpet, and dying away o'er the golden moss-clad stones or purple
heather, only to render the solitude more silent than before. But a calm
day is not an every-day occurrence in those elevated spots. When the
wind is strong wild feelings of vastness and loneliness fill the tourist's
"brai;! as he sits on some fragment gazing on the black cloud forms driving
* Carruthers' " Highland Note Beok."
16 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
before the gathering storm, or listens to the booming and rushings of the
weird tempest spirit amid the fissured crags, or as it leaps over the sharp
ridged edges into the ravines below.
In addition to the attractions of nature the district is rife with histo-
rical reminiscences and the legendary and romantic tales and traditions of
the long ago.
" What is the name of that rock?" said I to a young country girl on
the lake shore, pointing to a projecting mass on the hill side, over which
dashed a mountain stream fringed with the hazel and the birch where it
fell, and rushing down a narrow valley like a rift in the side of Ben Slioch.
" I thought, sir, every one knew the king's fairy palace."
" Is he ever seen now-a-days?"
" Indeed, he's not, but the old people often saw him, and Mary Ban's
grandmother and my own knew a young married woman who was carried
away to bo head nurse to the young prince."
"Do you xemember the circumstances?"
" I'll tell you how it happened, sir."
" Many years ago there lived over at Erradale a rich farmer called Ewen
Mackenzie, who had one daughter, Mary, a most beautiful girl, and
just as good as she was handsome, and as old Ewen was known to be
well off. she was courted by many of the young men in the country side,
rich and poor. But it was hard to please her father, and harder still to
please Mary Laghach. At last came a wooer who pleased both, and the
match was soon made — and Charlie Maclean was the happiest man far or
near, and when the bride was taken to her husband's home there was so
great rejoicing that old Eory I)all,who remembered the battle of Bel Rinnes,
said lie never saw or heard the like. Three days after going to her own
house Mary disappeared. None knew whither she had gone or what had
befallen her. She was searched for high and low by the neighbours, and
poor Charlie, her husband, never ceased searching and mourning till he
was almost out of his reason. At last, poor fellow, in his despair, he
thought of taking counsel of an old wise man who had great skill of the
Duine Sithe, and who lived at Gairloch. To him he went and asked him
for tidings of his missing bride. ' If you came to me before,' said he,
' you'd have little trouble in finding her, but now I fear it's too late.'
" ' Why is it too late ? Only tell me where she is and who has her in
keeping. You shall be well paid for it — for if I once knew I would like
to see the mortal man who would keep her from me.'
"'Ochon,' said the fairy man, ' she is in no mortal hands. Your wife,'
added he solemnly, ' was stolen to be the head nurse of the young prince
of the fairies, who was born last month. It is now March and it will be
May eve before you can have the chance of seeing her, and it all depends
on yourself if you can bring her back. Meantime take this purse. It is
but little, yet you must keep it secretly and carefully like the apple of
your eye. It is full of the dust of a certain plant of great power. If
you can throw that dust on your wife you will be able to get her back,
but you must hold her fast in your arms whatever will be done to fear
you so as to let her go. You may even see her before May eve, so you had
better watch the cats chreay and the A-///// iiix<j<\ many a time and often,
and always alone.'
" Charlie Maclean, I need not tell you, watched long and sore through
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 17
all weathers day and night like a very caraiseach madadli. At last, though
May eve had not come, he began to despair of ever seeing her and to have
but little faith in the fairy man's purse and powder — but lo, and behold,
he was soon convinced of their value and the truth of the old man's story.
At sunrise, one morning as he was sitting on a crag opposite the Fairy
Palace, he saw a beautiful rainbow spanning the glen and shining down
on the palacp and on the loch in front of it. Underneath this appeared
something which, at first indistinct, gradually became more clear and sub-
stantial, until it assumed the appearance of a woman of surpassing beauty
clothed in robes of heavenly blue, spotted all over with silver stars. The
long golden hair fell over her shoulders till the ringlets twined round her
feet, and her face and eyes were such that Charlie had never seen, even
in a dream, any person so beautiful. Bewildered, he sat spell-bound, only
half conscious he had seen her before — but the glamour of fairy wile was
over him, and he could not recognise her person. The figure stood
lightly on the water, as if to afford him a full view, gazing earnestly on
him all the time. At length she advanced a few steps holding out her
hands entreatingly, as if imploring his aid, and having remained stationary
for a few moments, began to recede and gradually vanished amid the
melting rays of the rainbow along with the morning vapours, but ere she
finally disappeared beside the rock at the palace, casting a fond and
sorrowful look to her husband. In an instant Charlie's recollection re-
turned, and he cried in agony — ' My wife, my wife, my darling Mary ! '
stretching out his arms unavailingly — but his beloved was gone, and he
was doomed to watch and wearily wait for her return many a long night
and day. But his confidence in the wise man had returned more strongly
than ever, and he visited the Gairloch fiosaiche, carrying with him a good
sum, and telling him if he succeeded by his aid in recovering his wife he
would double the amount. ' "Watch well and you will surely bring her
back,' said the wise man. Charlie did watch well, and the day before
May eve caught another glimpse of his wife as she stood below another
rainbow over the lake, and looking far more beautiful than ever. This
sight gave him more determination, and he set off in haste on another
visit to his wise adviser. ' Now,' said his counsellor, ' to-morrow it will be
impossible for you to see the fairy home without my help, but you shall
have it. When you return take the path that leads to the mountains, and
whatever you see or whatever occurs never show faint heart. All will
come right.' As the sun went down Charlie took the path leading to the
mountains. As he neared the western end of the lake he reached a
boundary ditch where two lairds' lands met. He climbed the fence and
jumped to reach the opposite land, but instead of alighting on the green
turf he jumped on the back of an enormous black horse that seemed to
rise out of the earth to meet him. He at once knew by the glaring eyes
and snorting nostrils that the horse was none other than the Kelpie,. and
remembering the wise man's parting advice, he banished fear, aud stooping
forward fixed his hands in a firm grip of the flowing mane of his phantom
steed, and thus holding prepared for the terrible ride he knew was before
him. Away went the water-horse with a mighty rush like an arrow wind,
now leaping and rearing and screaming and neighing wild yells — flounder-
ing and splashing through bogs and quagmires — rushing over fences, and
B
18 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
like lightning up the mountains, over crags, through burns and torrents,
through ravine and glen, till after what appeared hours to Charlie, he
suddenly stopped in a dark wet hollow, and rearing shook his rider to the
ground, disappearing with a triumphant yell
" Charlie sprung to his feet, and finding he was unhurt, looked around
him. Over him were the giant mountains with their savage crests and
wild ravines and yawning valleys. Up one of these, which he knew too
well, for long had he watched it, he saw a noble road leading through the
sloping wood and down it, and walking in it in a most stately and demure
manner, a withered atomy of a man beautifully dressed, with a cocked
hat on his head and a niagnificant stand of pipes under his arm.
"'A happy May eve to you Charlie Maclean,' said the little man as he
came up with a polite and dignified bow.
"'The same to you, sir, and many,' returned Charlie, 'may I ask
where this road leads.'
"'Why, you goose, ought you not to know it leads to the Fairy
Palace, seeing you have watched it long enough 1 Don't you be trying
your tricks on travellers, my fine fellow. However, come on, I'll lead the
way, no matter who pays the piper.'
" With that he tunes up his pipes and marched along the road, Charlie
following. ' What tune do you like,' said he, turning round suddenly.
" ' Oh ! Cailleach Liath Rarsair,' answered Charlie, scarcely knowing
what he said.
"'It's a capital tune,' said the atomy, and immediately striking it up
played with such life and spirit that Charlie was so delighted as to feel
able to fight the whole fairy court to rescue his wife.
"'Now,' said the little piper, as he finished the tune, ' I haven't time to
play more, else I'd give you the prettiest pibroch ever was battered through
a chanter, for I must be going. Look up ; there is the palace afore your
eyes. One you know bade me tell you to stand in the porch till the
company conies out to the green. Your wife will be among them. A
word to a sensible man is enough. You have the purse of dust in your
pocket. Use it, [ say, use it whenever you see your wife.' With that he
struck up ' Charlie is my Darling,' and marched straight back down the
road.
" The Fairy Palace was now showing bright in all its grandeur, and
Charlie ran across the porch, and placing himself behind one of the large
pillars, prepared to wait for the appearance of the company. He had not
long to wait, for in a few minutes a troop of lords and ladies came forth
to have a dance upon the green. Charlie's heart gave a great
leap as he discovered his wife in their midst with the baby prince in her
arms. He had emptied the purse into his hand, and now waited anxiously
till she came opposite to him. . Then, in an instant, he cast the dust on
her head. The moment he did so a wild, angry, and terrible yell broke
from the multitude and echoed through the passages and vaults of the
palace. The child was snatched away, the bright throng disappeared, and
Charlie Maclean and his wife, Mary, found themselves clasped in each
other's arms at the foot of that rock that guards the entrance to the Fairy
King's Palace. There was great joy when Mary was first taken home,
but — it was little to her second home-coming."
TORQUIL.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 19
GAELIC AND CORNISH.
IN a short comparative study of the philological affinities of the Irish,
Manx, Breton and Welsh languages, contributed to the Gael of November
last, I spoke as follows : — " The careful consideration of such word-growths
might enable us to determine some general laws, as to the special linguistic
conditions under which, in these later ages, the several members of the
great Celtic family have been marching on their several diverging ways ;
and any general linguistic laws, evolved on sure ground, in this one field
of the great Aiyan inquiry, -could not fail to be also eminently useful in
the wide domain" of general Aryan philology. In the same paper I
ventured also to express the hope that some of our more prominent Celtic
scholars would turn their attention to a field so full of the promise of rich
results. I regret that none of my learned friends seems disposed to take
the hint ; and, therefore, by way of a beginning, and, as it were, to show
the way to the da, majores on our little Scotch Olympus, I propose giving
here the first results of a short holiday excursion into the by-ways of
what remains to us of the Celtic literature of Cornwall. How much
remains to us of that old literature, in what condition, and of what quality,
needs not here be described. For, since the translation of Hovelacque into
English, we have had a good many popular re-productions of that author's
comprehensive summary on the subject. Neither, for the present, shall
I touch on the pregnant topics of word-growth and comparative inflectional
change. What I propose doing here is simply to inquire what words are
still common to the surviving remains of the Cornish and to our own
Scotch Gaelic. That question, narrow and simple as it seems to be, opens
up a very wide inquiry. For what they still possess in common, putting
aside all they could have borrowed from later neighbours, they must have
got in common, and got only at the old fireside of the old Aryan mother.
Our seemingly simple question thus broadens out into an inquiry which
may thus be formulated : What is there still common to Gael and Kerne*
of all that was their common patrimony, when in the dim primeval past
the family first divided, and each member took his several way, to make
new history, to encounter new and diverging fortunes, from new wants
and experiences to evolve new thoughts and contrivance, and in strange
lands, under foreign skies, to attune tongue aud ear to new name-sounds
for the same ? He who would successfully enter on this inquiry must
carefully remember the warning just hinted at. He must put clearly to
one side all such loan words as both members of the family could have
borrowed from others, either on the westward march, or after settling in
their new homes. If a Gaelic speaker, he must, before trimming his sails
to the freshening breeze of his natural enthusiasm, not only look out lor
the false lights of Cornish wreckers, but, even before leaving what he
* The Bretons in France, who claim a connection with Cornwall within the historic
period, speak of the Cornish as Kernes : and many of the oldest Breton ballads are set
down by De la Villemarque as les Kerne : Dialecte de CornouaiUe. On this suggestion I
venture to call the Cornish men Kernes, in the same way as we call ourselves Gaels, Of
course I am aware of the wider and contemptuous sense in which the word is used by
English authors,
20 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
fancies the terra finna of his mother-tongue, he must remember the
strange pranks of that Will o' the Wisp who has so often led our would-
be philologers a weary dance, not to solid supper, but to the duck-pond or
the quagmire.
All words, therefore, of ecclesiastical origin, in which the Cornish
remains are necessarily rich, it will be wise thus to put aside. For the
medieval cleric was cosmopolite, and to him Latin was everywhere the
technical speech of his order. And it must also be remembered that when
the Cornish manuscripts were written, the language, as living speech, was
already well nigh moribund. At the least, it is evident that English had
then made the same inroads into Cornwall that it is making to-day into
the Perthshire Highlands, where the spoken Gaelic of the people has a
large admixture* of English. It is not, indeed, to be forgotten that
English is itself of Aryan origin, as well as Gaelic, and that, therefore,
independently of this later process of mutual Anglo-Gaelic admixture or
assimilation, the two languages have always, of linguistic right and by
inheritance, had much in common. But neither, in this inquiry, can we
safely forget that the two languages have long been in such relations to
each other as are most favourable to mutual accommodation by the inflated
currency of loan words. Our English in Scotland has long been borrow-
ing from Gaelic not only idioms but words ; witness the songs of Burns,
who himself spoke no Gaelic. And if the stronger borrows from the
weaker, need we wonder that very largely and for a long time Gaelic has
been borrowing from English.
Keeping, then, as clear as can be of these two sources of error, let us
see what still survives in common to Gael and Kerne of the old family
inheritance. As they looked up to the blue sky, they both saw there, like
the old Aryan father, and in common with the whole Aryan brotherhood,
that great being whom they call respectively DIA and Du or DUY — the
Tu of our Saxon Tu-esday, the DEUS of the Roman, and the THEOS of the
Greek. But when, in after times, Gael and Kerne came, in their several
ways, to read in between the lines of that grand impression of the Unseen,
the small print of more concrete and anthropomorphic ideas, suggested by
the mastery and authority of one man over another, elaborating more or
less consciously otir notion of the LORD-ship of God, the Gael called him
Tighearn and the Kerne, Arluit. The former name, we thus conclude,
they both carried with them from the old Aryan home, the latter names
they had learned, each for himself and in his own way, since parting with
that home and with each other. The heaven of both is ntf, their earth
tir and doer ; but the Cornisli stars are steren, the sun heuul, and the
moon luir. Both are practically at one in biou life, enef soul, taran
thunder, tan fire, tea heat, reu frost, iey ice, golou light, duv black, l//'ji/ti>/i
year, guaintoin (green time) spring, haf summer, and goyf winter. The
common heritage of the family is also more or less obvious in den and gur
man, benenrid and grueg woman, moroin girl, floli lad, bugel herd, ruy
king, and /////•//'//,//,* ruif edict ; nor will the Highland crofter have much
difficulty in recognising a very special object of his affection in mair a
petty officer.
And what a picture opens up to us of the old Aryan family, living to-
gether in patriarchal simplicity, when we find that, after untold ages, two
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 21
wanders from the old hearth, whose children's children have been strangers
for countless generations, still to speak to us, through these old Cornish
legends and our Gaelic Bibles, of all that concerns the family life, in a
voice tha.t is all unchanged. For if the Cornish father is a little disguised
as tat and the mother as warn, yet what help of Grimm's laws does any
of us need to hear a brother's tongue in such words as teilu family, brand
brother, fhuir sister, mob son, car friend, and altruan foster-mother? Or
does the voice turn strange, or suggest a feeling anywise foreign to our
accustomed ideas, when it speaks of the head of the family as pen-teilu,
and of the mother as mam-teilu ? Similarly old Dlly Pendraeth, with
whom died, a hundred years ago, the living Cornish tongue, would tell us
Gaels how near we both keep to the old forms of speech which her
ancestors and ours learned from the same father, when she called her head
pen, her nose trein or iron, her chest cluit, her skin croin, her shoulder-
blade scuid, her elbow elin, and her hand lau. Indeed, I think, I can
even now form to myself a good picture of the worthy old crone, as
chattering strange words which none around her understood, and with the
nail (euuin) at the end of her long weird forefinger she touched and
mournfully counted each staring rib (asen) in the side of her old nag
(marc), which had come to such sad plight through lack of fat or blonec !
What says the Cornish language as to the social condition of the
primitive patriarchal Celt ? That he was a helh-fhur (sealgair) or hunter
goes without saying. But, it is to be expected, his game was in large
measure different from that of Ossian's heroes. The goat and the horse
were known to him, for it is only from him that Gael and Kerne alike
could learn to call these animals gaur and mare. He must have known
something of agriculture, else how could these his descendants, more entirely
sundered than are to-day the Antipodeans, agree to arm their plough with
a soc ? And there are other reasons for placing him in an age long posterior
to that of stone ; for though the Cornish gof seems to have been a Jack-
of-all-trades, working indifferently in metal and wood, and sometimes even
in clay, yet was there a Cornish eure, or gold-worker, and an heirnior, or
iron-worker. When this iron-worker handled his furnace or his red hot
metal clumsily, the result was a lose or burn, whose pain he eased with an
ointment, called by him, as we still call it in the Highlands, urat. He
had haloin, or salt, to his steak of goat's flesh ; when age, sickness, or
folly brought him to poverty he was bochodoc ; when good he was, not
ma, but da ; when a quarreller he was a strifor ; when a sinner he was
drocli-oberor or drocger ; and when fairly mad he had sack diaul. If a
spark from the anvil deprived him of sight, like his brother Gael, this
Cornish craftsman was dall ; if deaf he was bothar ; if dumb, qf-lauar ;
squinting, he was cam ; and aweary, guan or ainaich. Rest and refresh-
ment brought nerth, or strength, to his arm ; when he spoke truth it was
guirion ; and when, as skilful mechanics sometimes will, he blew, not his
bellows, but the horn of his own praise, his pride was goth. And finally,
though even he could never dream of the crown, or curun-ruy, and scarce
dared aspire to be a pen-can(t)-gur, or head of a hundred men, yet may it
be suggested, as a curious question in philology, whether he did not sit
among his fellows crowned with the first rude model of that universal
symbol of modern Saxon respectability, which, whenever he got it, he
wore and called a hot !
22 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
That the flora, as well as the fauna, of tribes wandering from a home
so distant by ways so far apart, should be differently named, is only what
is naturally to be expected, yet with both the plant is les and the bark
ruse. And not less suggestive, in view of a similarly sharp contrast well
known in Gaelic, as the result of the simplest literal change, is a class of
words in which the change of one letter in Cornish makes a word mean
something not merely different, but entirely the reverse, in Gaelic. Thus
in Cornish euske is sleep, in Gaelic duisg is awake.
Just two words in conclusion. Though the comparison in this paper
is nominally between Gaelic and Cornish, yet to most readers it is un-
necessary to explain that whatever is said of the former language may be
understood as said also of Manx and Irish ; Avhile what is said of the latter
may also be taken as more or less true of Welsh and Breton. And, for
the sake of brevity and simplicity, as well as from a desire to avoid the
appearance of what might seem akin to the yoth of our friend the heirnicr,
I have not allowed myself to indulge in references, however appropriately
these might sometimes be made, to the classical tongues and the Sanskrit.
The learned reader, as he proceeds, will mark such references and apply
them for himself. To the general reader they would be only confusing.
DONALD MASSON, M.A., M.D.
LOCHABER'S LONE STAR.
To Fassifern Cameron Stewart, NetLer-Locbaber.
In bonnie Lochaber 'mong brown heather hills,
In bonnie Lochaber by clear flowing rills,
When Leven's dark waters glide on in their glee,
I know a wee cot that is dear, dear to me ;
There sweet Fassifern in her. loveliness dwells,
And bright is the home 'neath the grace of her spells,
Than flowerets or rills she is bonnier far,
I joy when I sing of Lochaber's lone star.
As tender and pure as the eye of the dawn,
As fair and as blythe as the light-leaping fawn ;
O 1 surely her heart is the home of that love
Which springs in its beauty from fountains above.
Ye soft winds that blow o'er Lochaber's green braes,
. O ! let yeur sweet music be ever her praise ;
Ye wild sweeping tempests when rolling in war,
Be ever your song of Lochaber's lone star.
Her merry voice sounds as the whispers of streams,
Its echo still haunts me, I hear it in dreams ;
Her smile from my memory will never depart,
Its sunshine still clings with delight to my heart.
Ye angels of goodness ! O 1 hear ye my prayer,
Guard ever your sister from sadness or care ;
Let no blighting sorrows the happiness mar,
Of sweet Fassifern, my Lochaber's lone star.
SUNDEBLAND. WM. ALLAN.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 23
HACO, THE DANE, OB THE PEINCE'S WOOING.
A TRUE ROMANCE OF LOCH-MAKEB, IN THREE PARTS.
By J. E. MDDDOCK, author of " A Wingless Angel" " As the Shadows
Fall" "Lovat, or Out in the '45," $c., $c.
PART I. — THE DR^AM.
THE date is 1500, time the close of an August day, the scene Loch-Maree.
The sun is sinking in the west, and shafts of golden fire lie athwart the
bare and rugged mountains, lighting up their age worn sides, which seem
to glow and burn, and so contrast well with the deep fissures and gorges
which are steeped in purple shadow. The great mass of Ben Slioch rises
up boldly, a very king of mountains. His splintered outlines are sharply
defined in the pure, clear atmosphere, and his precipitous walls of rock
shimmer in the yellow light. The lake is very calm, for not even a zephyr
moves its bosom. The whole scene is one of peace and marvellous
beauty. Beautiful it always is, but often its peace is broken by the
barbarism of rival clans, who, sweeping down from the mountains like
the lordly eagles, rend and tear each other with remorseless ferocity.
Many a terrible deed of bloodshed and cruelty have those silent rocks
witnessed, and often have their rifts and hollows echoed back the dis-
pairing cry of some dying wretch, the victim of jealousy and feud.
There is not a pass but has been a witness to acts of heroism and
tieachery, not a mountain but has resounded with the battle cry of
warring clans. And if the loch could tell its tale many a ghastly secret
it might disclose. Of midnight surprises, of fights to the death, of hacked
and bleeding bodies that have slowly sunk into its dark depths, there to
lie until that great day when the heavens shall roll up as a scroll, and the
mountains dissolve away. But on this hot August afternoon the hand of
tranquility seems to have touched all things. The eagles poised them-
selves on motionless wings in the stagnant air, an idle bee or two hums
drowsily in the purple heather, and gaudy dragon flies, like winged jewels,
hang on the nodding blue bells as if they too felt the dreamy influence
of the dying day, and could give themselves up to delicious indolence.
Stretched on a soft carpet of green moss, on the south side of the
loch, and near where the Loch-Maree hotel now stands, was a young man
who also seemed to have caught something of the oscitant nature of the
evening. In age he was about five-and-twenty. He was possessed of a
singularly handsome face. His nostrils were straight and delicately
chiselled, and his forehead high. His eyes were a clear blue, and a light
moustache shaded his lip, while long golden curls hung in clusters over
his shoulders. From his dress, and the refinement which seemed stamped
on every feature, it was evident he was not a native of the district. The
Highlanders of that wild region were rugged and stern like unto their
own rocky mountains, but this man, though compact and well-formed, had
none of these characteristics. His hands were white and soft, and the
skin of his face and neck fair almost as a woman's. On his fingers were
24 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
two or three rings,rand at his "belt a long, thin dagger, in an elegantly
embossed sheath, hung. The handle was studded with jewels that
scintillated with every movement of his body.
This young man was Haco, a Danish prince, who had been sent from
the Court of Denmark to Scotland on a special mission in connection with
the Shetland Islands. Noble of birth, wealthy, and much beloved in his
own country, his future seemed to promise unalloyed happiness. If
there was a blemish in Haco's character it was a certain waywardness
which often led him to do things in opposition to the wishes of his
friends. He had come from his native country attended by only two or
three faithful followers, and his mission being completed, they had urged
him to return home. But he had turned a deaf ear to all their entreaties,
for reasons that will be presently disclosed. He was a keen sports-
man, and passionately fond of the chase. He had heard that Eoss-
shire, and especially the neighbourhood of Loch Maree, abounded with
wild deer, as well as wolves, and the temptation to hunt these animals
was too strong to be resisted. And many a noble stag, and many a savage
wolf had fallen before the unerring shot of his cross-bow.
One day while out hunting he lost his followers, and wandering down
to the margin of the Loch to quench his thirst with a draught of the
clear, pure water, he fell asleep amongst the heather. Suddenly he was
awakened by the sound of voices, and looking up, he beheld two monks
and a young lady. They were coming down to a boat which was lying
on the strand, and in which they had no doubt crossed the Loch.
As Prince Haco gazed upon the young woman he rubbed his eyes to
make sure that he was not dreaming, for it seemed as if the being who
stood before him was too radiant and beautiful to belong to the earth.
She was dressed in a pure white garment, that was girded with a
golden zone at the waist. Her face was marvellous in its perfect beauty.
Her skin, delicately tinged with pink on the checks, was clear and white
as snow. A great wealth of blue black, glossy hair hung loosely about
her shoulders and down her back, while her eyes were large, liquid, and
dark as night. In age she was little more than eighteen. Her figure
was perfect in its shape, and every curve and flowing outline displayed
by her graceful and classical costume.
Struck with astonisnment no less than admiration Prince Haco stared
at the beautiful girl who had so unexpectedly appeared before him, until
she blushed scarlet and turned her face from his burning glances. The
monks, in whose charge the young girl was, seemed annoyed at the
manner in which the Prince gazed at her, and they were passing on to
the boat without deigning to bestow further notice on him than a reprov-
ing and scornful scowl, when he rose suddenly, and, placing himself in
their way, he removed his bonnet, and kneeling on one knee he addressed
the elder and superior of the two monks. " Forgive me, holy father," he
said, "forgive me if I have displeased you by my apparent rudeness, but
a mortal may surely be pardoned for gazing on an angel."
" Thou speakst irreverently, my son," answered the monk, " our
daughter here is but of mortal mould. She is only a woman who intends
to devote her life to the church, and it is to be regretted if she has
aroused thine admiration." " Should I not be less than man if I had
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 25
not been struck by such marvellous beauty as that which I now behold,"
cried the Prince, and then turning to the young woman said — "Fair lady,
pardon and pity me, I am even as a wild deer in whose side the arrow
quivers, for thy glances have deprived me of power and made me thy
slave. Grant that thy slave then may have the honour of pressing his
lips to that fair hand, and then let him learn thy name and who thou
art."
The monk who had first spoken drew the girl towards him, and plac-
ing himself between her and the still kneeling Prince, he exclaimed
angrily — "Thou art guilty of presumption and impertinence, churl, in
daring to speak thus. Know that this lady dwelleth in the sanctity of the
Church and that she is the bride of heaven. Stand aside and let us pass."
Prince Haco rose suddenly to his feet, and drawing his tall handsome
figure up to its full height, as a look of anger came into his face, he placed
his hand upon the jewelled handle of his dagger, and exclamed, " An it
were not for the presence of that lady, saucy monk, that word churl should
cost thee thy life."
With a little cry of alarm the lady threw herself between the monk
and the Prince, and putting up her little white hands in a pleading
manner to the latter, she said in a sweetly musical voice —
" My fair sir, I pray that you will not quarrel. The good father
meant no harm. He is my protector, and if he has said aught that has
wounded your feelings, I pray you, for my sake, forgive him." The
Prince caught one of the outstretched hands in his, and pressing his lips
to it he said —
" For thy sake, fair lady, I would give my life. For a smile of those
sweet lips and a look of those bright eyes I would do such deeds as man
never did before. I am no churl, but in my veins runs pure and un-
sullied the royal blood of Denmark. I am Haco, the Danish Prince, and
now in the name of the Holy Mother, I pray you, sweet lady, tell me your
name."
The young girl drew back as though abashed, and clung to the arm of
the monk, who answered and said —
Prince, I have heard of thee, and I am sorry that my hastiness led
me to wound thy sensitiveness, but know that in this lady's veins runs
blood as noble as thine own, for in her thou beholdst the Princess Thyra,
a Princess of the Eoyal House of Ulster in Ireland. "
" Haco, the Prince of Denmark greets Thyra, the Princess of Ulster,"
cried Haco as he once more bent his knee and pressed his lips to the fair
hand of the girl. Then rising and turning to the monk, he asked — " But
tell me father what brings the noble lady here ?"
" She was sent by her father so that in the sanctity and peace of our
island monastery she might, while being far removed from the turmoil and
the strife which are shaking her own poor country, be taught humility and
Christian meekness, and devote herself to the service of God."
" She is too young and too beautiful to withdraw from the world,"
Haco murmured as if to himself, although his words reached the ears of
the monk and Princess. The latter blushed deeply, and she gave a quick
burning glance at the manly face of the Prince, which did not escape hia
notice. But the monk reproved him, and said —
26 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
"Thy words are light and frivolous, my son. But we do but waste
time in argument, for the day wanes and we must return."
"Where have you been to and whither are you going?" asked the
Prince as if be had not noticed the reproof.
" We have been to one of our holy houses which is situated amongst
yonder hills," and the monk pointed to the south. "We have some sick
there, and the Princess makes a weekly visit so that she may comfort the
feeble. But we are returning now to the monastery on the Isle Maree and
must bid thee adieu."
" And may we not meet again, fair lady," pleaded the Prince as he
respectfully drew on one side, and sighed heavily.
" Alas ! it must not be," she returned softly, and for a moment their
eyes met. Then, as she turned hers away, she blushed with confusion
and passed down to the boat. Haco stood on the shore until the boat
had disappeared amongst the islands, then, as he turned to go, he mur-
mured " she has taken my heart with her."
He had for some time been residing at the house of a Chief of the
Clan Mackenzie, who dwelt at the head of the loch, and as he turned his
footsteps towards his dwelling he was unusually thoughtful. He was
received by his followers with every manifestation of delight, for they had
become uneasy at his absence. He mentioned nothing to them of his
adventure, but for days he remained silent and reserved, which was such an
unusual thing for him that it caused no little astonishment. Day after day
he stole away alone, and went down to the spot where he had first beheld
the Princess, in the hope that he might again see her, but he was always
disappointed, until, unable to control himself longer, he one day procured
a b'oat and rowed to the Isle Maree.
So sacred was the island considered that it was looked upon as almost
sacrilege for a layman and a stranger to visit it. Even the warring
clans respected the sanctity of the place, and while the din and shock
of battle shook the surrounding country, this tiny island remained
undisturbed.
It was a veritable garden of beauty. It was clothed with a luxuriant
growth of trees and shrubs. The monastery was a small, plainly built
structure. And one portion was set aside for the use ol about ten ladies
who devoted their lives to religion and charity. There were about thirty
monks in all, who were presided over by an aged Abbot — a man of singu-
lar simplicity and purity of life. A small garden, filled with fruit and
flower trees, surrounded the building, and outside of this again a plot of
ground Avas set aside for a burial place. In addition there was a sacred
well whose waters possessed the most miraculous curative properties for
all sorts of disease, but more particularly for insanity. In fact the remedy
was so simple that the wonder was that any one should have been mad in
those days, or being so that they should have remained in that condition
longer than was necessary to go to the well, drink copiously of the potent
spring, then be dragged three times round the island at the stern of a
boat, whith a hair rope fastened under their armpits, and after undergoing
this mild treatment they invariably recovered — or died, especially died.
Close to this very wonderful well was a money tree, into which a coin
was driven by the hand of every pilgrim to the island, and any one who
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 27
failed to make this monetary offering to the Tutelary Saint met with some
terrible reverse or died before the year was out.
Haco marched boldly up to the monastery gate, and requested the porter
to conduct him to the presence of the Father Superior. The Prince had
little difficulty in obtaining an interview, for there was something com-
manding in his tone and presence. Nor did the Abbot seem greatly sur-
prised when Haco told him that he had come to beg permission to woo
the Princess Thyra.
"Thou art bold and impetuous," the Abbot answered, after listening
patiently to the Prince, " and thou shouldst remember that it is not usual
for a man, even though he be of royal blood, to seek a bride in the very
shadow of the Church. It is true our daughter has not entered the
Church nor broken all ties with the world, for she is only placed under
our care until the political storms which now shake her father's throne
have passed away. At the same time it must not be forgotten that the
sanctity of the Church is around her, and it is our duty to protect her
honour and her virtue."
" I come here in the character of one who desires to woo her for my
wife," the Prince answered proudly. " I am of royal birth, and unstained
honour, and would die to shield hers."
" That is nobly spoken," the Abbot returned, " and if I were quite
sure that thou wert not mistaking passion for love I might be tempted to
encourage thy wooing."
" Nay, why should you doubt me," Haco exclaimed, " my name and
birth are a sufficient gurrantee that I am sincere, and to give you even
better assurance I vow by the name of the Blessed Virgin Mary that if
the Princess Thyra will wed nie she shall be my wife."
As he spoke he raised his hand and placed it reverently on a small
crucifix that stood upon the table. The Abbot was silent for a few
minutes and then he said — " My son, I give thee my blessing."
Haco knelt, and the Holy Father placed his hand upon the Prince's
head and murmured a short prayer.
" I thank you, father," the Prince answered as he rose, " and I beg, in
acknowledgment of my gratitude, to bestow a thousand rnerks towards the
support of this monastery."
In a few minutes from this Prince Haco had the pleasure of once
more beholding the lady who had made so great an impression upon him.
Nor was she less impressed with him. That interview led to others un-
til they became plighted lovers.
At the moment that this story commences Prince Haco was waiting
for a boat to arrive from the island to convey him back, so that he might
spend an hour with his beloved Thyra, this being the time granted
him by the Abbot at each interview. He had fallen into a half dream
state in which his only thought was Princess Thyra. For some time the
drowsy hum of a drowsy bee as it buzzed round his head was the only
sound he heard, but presently he started up, for • the plash of oars had
broken the stillness. A boat, rowed by a stalwart monk, was nearing the
shore, and when it touched the strand Prince Haco jumped in, and the
monk pulled back to Isle Maree.
The golden light had given place to a deep, scarlet blush — so to speak,
28 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
that dyed the mountains and the bosoni of the loch. Gradually the blush
deepened, purple shadows mingled with the glowing red, and the great
masses of mountains seemed to blend and grow one into the other, as they
became indistinct and dark in the fading light of the dying day. Not a
cloud was round the head of Ben Slioch which shimmered in the lingering
glow that yet reddened the west.
As the Prince and the monk stepped from the boat on to the island
there suddenly rose on the still air the sound of the sweet angelus — the
evensong of the monks. It was strangely, and solemnly impressive amid
the wild surroundings, and the grand old mountains seemed to echo back
the psalm of praise as if they too were worshipping the great Creator.
Prince Haco removed his bonnet, and he and the monk knelt and
reverently crossed themselves, until the voices died away and there was
stillness again. The Prince continued to kneel for some time, but the monk
rose and hurried towards the monastery. In a little while Haco started,
for his quick ear had caught the sound of a light footstep, and in another
moment he was pressing the Princess Thyra to his breast. She -had come
down to meet him, as she knew the hour he would arrive.
" My own beloved," he exclaimed, as he pressed his burning lips to
hers, " what happiness it is for me to hold ycu this, and know that you
are mine !"
" No less for me than you," she murmured sweetly low, " but Ah,
Haco, will you always love me thus 1"
" Always ? yes as surely as yonder star now shines over Ben Slioch's
peak. Aye, and I will be as faithful and as true to you as yon star is to
its orbit. But why, my darling, should you doubt me ?"
" I do not doubt, but the happiness seems so great that I have a sort
of undefined fear that it cannot last."
" Nonsense, heart of mine, what can come to destroy our happiness ?
The future lies before us an unshaded vista. It is all light and beauty,
and you and I, my sweet one, will walk together in perfect peace and per-
fect trust and perfect love."
" Oh, what a delicious dream !" she murmured.
" And why should our lives not be a dream, my Princess ? Born to
high estate, with riches and good friends and unclouded prospects, we
can sup our full of happiness until it pleases God to take us." A shudder
seemed to suddenly seize the Princess, and she clung closer to her lover.
A slight breeze had passed over the loch and shook the trees on the island
into a weird whisper as it were. " What is it that frightens you, my
treasure 1" he asked.
" Nothing," she answered with a little laugh, " it was but a nervous
feeling that seized me, and we thought that these ghostly trees, as they
were stirred by the night wind, said when you spoke — ' It shall not be.'"
Haco pressed his strong arm closer round the slender waist of the
Princess, and answered —
" You are morbidly inclined, my darling. The night wind, and the
murmuring waters, and the rustling trees speak to me only of love and
peace. Yon star shines not not more brightly than shall our lives."
" Amen to that," the Princess returned, then leaning her little head
upon his breast, she said, " I pray to the Blessed Virgin that nothing
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 29
may ever destroy our pleasant dream, and yet there are times when I
have a half-nervous dread that Red Hector of the Hills will bring us
trouble."
" Cease these fears, my darling," Haco cried with a forced merry laugh
that belied the true state of his feelings, for at the mention of Red Hector's
name the Prince's brow darkened, and he clenched his hands as if in
passion.
" But you know how Red Hector has pressed me to become his bride,"
she answered, " and he is so wild and stern that I fear me he would resort
to anything to gain his purpose."
"I fear him not," Haco returned with great firmness, "and if he
should persecute you more I will slay him."
" Nay, Haco my own, I would not have you take his life," the Princess
murmured as she threw her arms round her lover's neck and pressed her
warm cheek to his. " Should he annoy me further I will tell the Abbot
and seek his protection."
Whatever Haco's thoughts were he kept them to himself, and made
no further remark on the subject, and when a happy and too short hour
had passed the lovers separated, and the Prince blew a small silver whistle
which hung round his neck. This was a signal for the monk to appear
and row him across the loch.
When Haco reached the mainland, and close to the spot from whence
he had started, he sprung lightly out, and wishing the boatman good -night,
he bent his steps in the direction of his lodgings.
The moon was shining brilliantly, and the night was very still, save
for a soft breeze that had risen within the last hour, and was just moving
the heather and the trees into a weird rustle, that only served to heighten
the effects of the stillness.
As the Prince trudged on he was suddenly startled by a sound that was
not that of the wind, but which he knew to be an arrow that had whizzed
past his ear, and was within a hair'sbreadth of striking him in the face.
He was a bold and courageous youth, but he stopped and drew his long
rapier that flashed ominously in the moonlight, and while he stood irreso-
lutely, and undecided how to act, another arrow sped on its course and
went through his bonnet. No longer hesitating, he grasped his rapier
with a grip of iron and rushed towards a huge boulder that stood in his
path, and from which direction the arrows had been shot. As he reached
the rock, there suddenly rose up before him, like a spectre in the moon-
light, a tall, powerful man, with coarse red hair that hung about his
shoulders like a mat, and a beard that descended below his waist. His
arms were bare, and were brawny and powerful, and covered with coarse
fibrous hair that spoke of immense strength. In one hand he carried a
bow that was still strung, and raising this above his head, he stood like a
Hercules in the Prince's path, and in a stentorian voice exclaimed —
" Hold, Prince. You and I have an account to settle, and one of us
must die to-night.
(To be Continued.)
30 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
WILLIAM, LOED CKECHTOUN, AT TAIN AND INVEKNESS,
A.D., 1483-1489.
BY GENERAL A. STEWART- ALLAN, F.S.A. SCOT., ETC.
THE residence of William, Lord Crechtoun, in the north of Scotland,
during the latter years of the reign of King James the Third, is an his-
torical episode, which has been hardly noticed by any of our historians,
and very cursorily glanced at by the few writers who have alluded to the
facts. It is, however, connected with an obscure, and indeed somewhat
mysterious piece of family history, in which a Princess of the blood-royal
of Scotland — a sister of the reigning sovereign — is closely mixed \\p in a
discreditable manner; and the whole story may be considered one of in-
cidents belonging to the chroniques scandalewes of the time. It has also
been hitherto treated with unaccountable brevity, as well as almost signi-
ficant paucity of the circumstantial evidence relating to it. It is not pre-
tended here to give a complete explanation of all the events which then
occurred, and which now may be considered to have escaped from the
range of full inquiry — at least to any satisfactory extent — for this essay
can only be offered as a slight contribution to history, and a compilation
from the best available authorities ; with mention of the sources from
which it is derived, and extracts, generally in the words of the writers
referred to, as the grounds on which the statements and inferences are based.
Sir Wiliam Crechtoun of Frendraught, and of that Ilk, was eldest son
and successor of James, second Lord Crechtoun, by his wife, Lady Janet
de Dunbar, the Lady of Frendraught, and eldest daughter an co-heir of
James, " Domiuus de Frendrath," who appears as " Janeta de Dunbar,
comitissa Moravie, et domina de Freudraught, &c.," on November 8, 1454.
[Erroll Charter Chest]; and which lady — the heir-of-line of the Dunbars,
Earls of Moray — survived her son — the subject of this paper — for several
years, as she was living November 22, 1493, when she resigned the barony
of Frendraught to her eldest grandson, James, and his heirs. [" Eeg.
Mag. Sigil.," lib. xiii., No. 71.] On the death of his father, James, be-
fore November 20, 1469, William succeeded him, as third Lord Crechtoun,
and must have been married shortly afterwards to Marion of Livingston,
a daughter (unnoticed by the Peerage writers) of Sir James Livingstone
of Calendar, first Lord Livingstone — so created before August 30, 1458 —
["Keg. Mag. Sigil.," lib. v., No. 52] by Marion, his wife, who was still
alive on June 4, 1478, but had deceased before October J 9 following,
when a decree was granted, by the Lords of Council, to " Marion, Lady
of Crechtoun," as one of the executors of " vmquhile Marion, Lady Levin-
stoun." [" Acta Anditorum," p. 59; " Acta Domiuorum Concilii," p. 15,
fol. Edinburgh, 1839 ; edit. T. Thomson.] " Marioun, Lady Crechtoun,
as executrix to hir rnodir," again appears on March 6, 1479, when declared
entitled to payments from lands pertaining to her late mother. [" Acta,
Auditorum," p. 68, ut supru], and she may have lived several years subse-
quently, perhaps until about 1481, or even later. There is an action and
cause, however, before the same Lords Auditors, on March 18, 1479,
against " James of tuedy and Marion of Crechton, his spouse," which is
puzzling to explain. [" Acta Audit.," p. 79.] These references appear to
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 31
have escaped the critical notice of Riddell, in his remarks upon the
marriage under notice, and to which I have to acknowledge my obligations ;
though it is strange that he has given the dates of " 20th October 1478,"
for October 22, and " 8th of March, and 4th of July in the same year,"
for June 4, 1478, and March 18, 1479, which was the following year —
citing Acta Dominorum Concilii, and Acta Auditor urn.* The date of
Marion, Lady Crechtoun's, death is not recorded, but she was certainly
the first, if not only, wife of William, Lord Crechtoun, and mother of his
son and heir, James, above-mentioned ; who must have been of full age
in the year 1492 and 1493, when he is found receiving grants of lands,
as proved by the Records of the Great Seal, already referred to. It also
appears from a process of October 23, 1493, that " James Crechtoun, the
son and are of vmquhile William, sumtyme lord Crechtoun," without the
concurrence of any tutor or curator, had previously assigned twenty-seven
ounces of gold to a certain Sir Thomas Tod, Knight for the " wranguis
detentioun," of which he now sought a remedy from the Lords of Council
in Civil Causes, who postponed consideration of his complaint until
February 12 following. ["Acta Dow. Cone.," ut supra, p. 311], which
conclusively proves that James could not have been a son of the Princess
Margaret, as hitherto asserted. An interesting fact also transpires from
this marriage (as Eiddell observes), which is, that Marion Livingstone
had obviously been a peace-ottering to reconcile the feuds and animosities
of the great families of Crechtoun and Livingstone, previously, as is well-
known, keen rivals for political power, during the troublous times in the
reigns of Kings James II. and III. The notices of William, in the first
years after his succession to the family title, are scanty, but the name of
" dominus Crechtoun " appears as attending the following Parliaments of
Scotland under James III., November 20, 1469 — May 6, 1471 — Novem-
ber 20, 1475— July 1, and October 4, 1476— April 6, 1478— March
1, and October 4, 1479, at Edinburgh, which is the last occasion on
which his name is found in the Parliamentary rolls. ["Acta Parl.
Scot.," vol. ii. pp. 93, 98, 108, 111, 115, 121, 122, 124.] There are
also five references to "ye lord Crechtoune," from October 15, 1478,
to June 13, ]480, amongst the Acts of the Lords of Council in Civil
Causes, consisting chiefly of claims made against him for the repayment
of sums of money, &c., which had been lent to him, by various persons,
at different times. ["ActaDom. Concil." ut supra, pp. 12, 14, 19, 44,
50.] Before the Lords Auditors of Causes and Complaints "ye lord
Crechtoune" is found at various periods, between August 5, 1473, and
October 1 483, to answer charges of " skathis and danpnage " preferred
against him, and other matters, in some of which, however, he was com-
plainant. ["Acta Auditorum," ut supra, pp. 29 et seq., to 122.]
There is no positive reason for alleging that, up to October 1479,
Lord Crechtoun had engaged in treasonable proceedings against his
sovereign, nor does he appear to have been directly implicated in the first
rebellion of Alexander, Duke of Albany ; which took place in the above
year, and was quickly suppressed by the decision and energy of the King,
when Albany escaped to France. There is no doubt, however, that he
was uu active adherent of the Duke in his second rebellion and treasonable
'Remarks on Scottish Peerage Law," &c., " By John Riddell, Esq., advocate.
Edinburgh : T. Clark," 8vo., 1833, p. 194 note.
32 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
invasion of the kingdom, assisted by an English army, in July 1482;
though the King was constrained, by a Parliament, assembled at Edin-
burgh, December 2 following, to pardon his brother, and even to create him
Lieut.-General of the kingdom, this arrangement soon terminated. Albany
was forced to resign his usurped office before March 1483, when James
•was restored to his free and full power, and the turbulent nobles resumed
their loyalty for a time, though the most powerful of his late supporters
were deprived of the offices and dignities which they abused to the pur-
poses of conspiracy and rebellion. The Earl of Euchau, with Lord Crech-
toun and Sir James Liddale of Halkerstoune, who appear to have been
considered the most dangerous of the conspirators with England, were
ordered to be banished fromthe realm for the space of three years. The
disloyal Duke then retired into England, leaving an English garrison
in his castle of Dunbar ; and in the Parliament of June 27, he was finally
forfeited, along with Sir James Liddale, for repeated acts of treason, and
designs to dethrone King James III. By a solemn decree of the three
estates of the realm, after he had failed to appear before them, though duly
summoned by Eothesay herald, "Alexander, Duke of Albany, Earl of
March, of Mar, and of Gariach, Lord of Annandale and of Man," was
found guilty of the crimes laid to his charge, and his life, lands, offices,
and all other possessions, declared to be forfeited to the crown.* His
dishonoured career was prolonged, in exile, till 1 485, when he died, at
Paris, from the effects of a wound received in a tournament there. After
his last escape to England, in April 1483, Albany had still remained busy
concerting measures with his adherents, for a more formidable expedition
against his native land ; and his friend, Lord Crechtoun, " one of the
most powerful and warlike of the Scottish barons " — according to Tytler —
" engaged with the utmost ardour in concentrating his party in Scotland,
and fortifying their castles for a determined resistance against their
Sovereign." ["Hist, of Scotland," ii., 245, et passim.]
Lord Crechtoun, with a long list of his adherents, experienced a
similar fate within a few months afterwards, while the treason of Angus
Gray and other rebel lords remained unknown. The whole process of
" forisfacture" of "Will. dom. Crechtoun," is recorded in the Acts of
Parliament of Scotland, where it occupies several pages (ii., 154-161
inch, 164), and lasted from February 19 to 24 ; on which latter date he
was sentenced by the Court of Parliament of Edinburgh, in the presence
of the Sovereign, personally presiding there, to forfeit his life, lands, and
all other possessions whatsoever he had of the Crown, in punishment of
" dome," for the treasons and crimes committed by him "against the peace
of the realm, and our lord, the King." It appeared in evidence that the
Eoyal messenger-at-arms, Alexander Hepburn of Qhitsum, Sheriff of Edin-
burgh, because he could not apprehend William, Lord Crechtoun person-
ally, passed with the letters of summons to the Castle of Crechtoun, on
November 20, 1483, citing him to " comper" in person in the Parliament
to be held at Edinburgh, on February 1 9 following, there to answer for
his treasonable art, part, counsel, and assistance to Alexander, some time
Duke of Albany, in his treasonable sending of Sir James of Liddale,
formerly of Halkerstoun, into England, with treasonable writings and in-
structions ; for receiving a pursuivant of the King of England, " call it blew-
* "Act ParL Scot.," vol. ii., pp. 146-152, "Pinkwton," &c., passim.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 33
mantle;"* and finally — after enumerating other treasonable acts — for "ye
tressonablc stuffing with men and wittale of ye Castell of Crechtoun, and
for the treasonable consale and assistence gevin to the personis being in
the said castell of Crechtoun in the treasonable halding of the said castell
aganis our said lords writings and Acts of Parliament, efter our soveran
lords grace to the said lord Crechtoun gevin and grantit efter the mony
and divers crimes Rebellionis and trespasses contrar our soueran lord
and his Eealme be him comytit and done." ["Act Parl. Scot." ii., 260.]
This was a most formidable indictment, and deserving all the penalties
of the crime of high-treason, aggravated also by his previously having been
pardoned for former numerous crimes of rebellion. It is therefore not
surprising that he should have dreaded appearing for trial before his peers,
and sought refuge in the remote parts of the north of Scotland, where he
found sanctuary within the inviolable " girth of S. Duthach, at Tayn in
Ross." Lord Crechtoun must have fled to Tain about the middle of the
year 1483, probably immediately after hearing of the forfeiture of the
Duke of Albany, in whose treasons he was so deeply implicated ; and
more especially after stuffing, that is garrisoning, his ancestral Castle of
Crechtoun, near Edinburgh, and putting it in a state of defence against
the royal troops, in behalf of his friend the Duke of Albany. From the
Acts of Parliament, above referred to, it appears that the Sheriff of Edin-
burgh, being unable to apprehend Lord Crechtoun personally at his own
castle, published the summons for treason at the Market Cross of Edin-
burgh, on December 7, 1483; and next endeavoured to serve it with the
necessary legal formalities, according to the following account of the pro-
ceedings. "The 11 day of December 1483, I, William Cumyn, macer
and Sheriff in that part, by our Sovereign lord specially constituted, by his
letters directed to me, passed with the same, and the witness Symon
Sperdor, messsenger, Thomas Scot, Johne Cowy, with others diverse,
to the Market Cross of Aberdene ; and in likewise the 1 8 day of the
same month and year forsaid, I passed with the said letters and these
witnesses, Thomas Scot, Johne Fresar, and Johne Cowy, Patric Prat, one
of the Bailies of Banf, Patric Blith, and Patric Duncansoun, burgess of
the same, to the market cross of Banff; and the 20 day of the same
month and year I passed with the said letters and these witnesses, Symon
Sperdor, Thomas Scot, Johne Fresar, John of Cowy, with others diverse,
to the market cross of Elgin ; the 22 day of the said month and year, I
passed with the said letters and these witnesses, Thomas Scot, Johne
Fresar, John Cowy, Archbald Broun, and John Terres, with others
diverse, to the market cross of Forres ; the 23 day of the moneth and
year foresaid, I passed with the said letters and these witnesses, Thomas
Scot, Johne Fresar, Johne Cowy, William Caldor, and Alane Thomsoun,
burgess of Name, with others diverse, to the market cross of Name ; and
the same 23 day I passed with the said letters and these witnesses,
Thomas Scot, Johne Fresar, Johne Cowy, Alexander Fleming, Alexander
Eede, and Johnne Patersoun, burgess of Inverness, to the market cross
of the same ; and beoause I cowth not get certain verification nor know-
* The earliest Pursuivant-at-arms — Bluemantle — recorded, is John Brice, gent, who
was in office, under Richard VII., and " probably dispossessed," according to Noble, in
"History of College of Arms," [4to, London, 1804 ; p. 93] probably the same.
C
34 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
ledge where to find nor apprehend personally William, Lord Crechtoun,
I passed to all the boroughs forenamed, and at the market cross of the
same, at days and before witnesses above expremit, I summoned peremtourly
by open proclamation!! the same William, Lord Crechtoun, and moreover,
the penult day of the mouth and year foresaid, I passed with the said
letters and these witnesses, Thomas Scot, Johne Fresar, Johne Cowy,
William Johnsoun, one of the Bailies of Thane, Thomas Rede, a Bailie of
Cromarty, Mawnis Vans, burges of Invernes, and Alexander Sutherland,
bruther and famuliar servitor to the said Lord Crechtoun, to the town of
Thane in Ross, within the sheriffdom of Inverness foresaid, where the
same Lord Crechtoun had his dwelling, as I was informed, in the Vicar's
house of Thane ; and at all the market crosses of the borowis before
named, and vicar's house in Thane also foresaid, I summoned lawfully
and peremptorily, in the name and authority of our Sovereign lord, the
King, the said William, Lord Crechtoun, to compear personally before our
forenamed Sovereign lord in his next Parliament, to be haldin at Edin-
burgh, on Thuisday, the xix. day of the month of February next to
come," &c. The foregoing notarial statement, though rather prolix, is in-
teresting, both as showing the difficulties the "masar," or mace-bearer,
acting as Sheriff-Substitute, and employed by the Sheriff of Edinburgh,
had in serving the summons on Lord Crechtoun, in his distant place of
concealment ; and also the time he occupied in travelling northwards,
through the different burghs of Aberdeen, Banff, Elgin, Forres, Nairn,
and Inverness, until he finally succeeded in discovering the fugitive lord
"in the town of Thane in Ross." All which arose from his inability to
" get certane verificacioun nor knaulage quhar to fynd nor apprehend
personaly William, lord Crechtoun;" although when he had at last traced
him to his residence at Tain, he was only able to serve the summons at
the vicar's house there, without doing so personally, or apprehending him.
He concludes the report of his proceedings at Tain, by stating that " in
all the above within executioun I made Intimacioun that whether the said
lord Crechtoun compearit or nocht at day and place to him lymyt with
continuacioun ol'dais, Our Soveran lord nevertheless Justice passand before
wald precede ; and also of our soverane lord's lettres to me direct in this
inattej as said Is. I gaif the copy to the foresaid Alexander Sutherland,
quhilk Requirit me proof on the behalf of the said lord Crechtoun, at
Thane, the penult day of december above written." [" Act. Parl. Scot"
ii., 159-1 CO.] The expressions used are slightly modernised, but other-
wise these extracts are literally copied, without alteration — the contrac-
tions being merely completed to render the meaning plainer. From the
different names of the witnesses given, we learn those oi' several burgesses
of our northern towns, nearly four centimes ago — "Jonne Patersoun"
and "Mawnis Vans" (Magnus Vans?), of Inverness, "Thomas Rede, a
bail/e of Cromaty," and " William Johnsoun, one of the baillies of Thaiu-."
" William Caldor, at Name," seems to have been the venerable Thane of
Cawdor, or Calder, who flourished between the years 1467 and 1503, and
was the last of the old race of Thanes, as well as of those who bore that
ancient title in Scotland.*
(To be Continued.)
* Cosmo Innes. " The Book of the Thanes of Cawdor, 1236-1742." Spalding Club
Edition. Ediuburgh, 4to, 1859 ; passim.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
DIRECTORY OF HIGHLAND AND CELTIC SOCIETIES.
THE GAELIC SOCIETY OF INVEENESS.
OFFICE-BEARERS FOR 1878-9.
Chief — John Mackay, C.E., Swansea
Honorary Chieftains — Sir Kenneth S. Mackenzie of Gairloch, Baronet ; Professor John
Stuart Blackie ; Charles Eraser-Mackintosh, M.P. ; Duncan Davidson of Tulloch.
Chieftains — Alexander Simpson, Provost of Inverness ; Colin Chisholm, Broadstone Park, and
Duncan A. Macrae, Englishton
Honorary Secretary — William Mackay, solicitor, Church Street
Secretary — William Mackenzie, Free Press Office, Inverness
Treasurer— George J. Campbell, solicitor, Church Street, Inverness
Council —
Charles Mackay, Culduthel Road Charles Ferguson, Raigmore
John Macdonald, The Exchange John Whyte, Highlander Office
John Murdoch, Highlander Office
Librarian — Charles Ferguson, Raigmore
Sard — Mrs Mary Mackellar Piper— Pipe- Major Alexander Maclennan
Bankers — The Caledonian Banking Company
This Society publishes a volume of " Transactions " annually, a copy of which every Member
of the Association receives gratis.
THE GAELIC SOCIETY OF LONDON— FOUNDED 1777.
Chief— The Marquis of Huntly
President — John Cameron Macphee
Vice-P resident — Walter H. Burton
Gaelic Secretary — Donald Campbell
Librarian — James Fraser
Treasurer — Alex. Mackenzie Mackay
Secretary— John Forbes, 66 Charing Cross
The meetings are held at the Society's Rooms, No. 1 Adam Street, Adelphi Terrace, at 8 P.M.,
on the Second Wednesday of every month, excepting July, August, and September. Highlanders
are invited to attend.
THE EDINBUEGH SUTHEELAND ASSOCIATION.
Patrons.
His Grace the Duke of Sutherland, K.G. | The Right Honourable Lord Reay
OFFICE-BEARERS.
President — John Macdonald, 7 Albany Street, Edinburgh
Vice-President — A. Mackay Robson, 121 Constitution Street, Leith
Treasurer — Alexander Mackay, 20 St Andrew Square
Secretary— James Macdonald, W.S., 21 Thistle Street, Edinburgh
Assistant Secretary — Hugh M. Matheson, 4 Roseneath Terrace
Piper — James Kerr
Committee.
John Macdonald, 30 Haddington Place
Donald Mackay, 73 Cockburn Street
HughJMackay, 22 Prince Regent St., Leith
William Macpherson, 4 East Adam Street
James Mackay, 20 St Andrew Square
George Matheson, 15 Clerk Street
PROGRAMME FOR 1878-9.— Annual Meeting, 6th December 1878, at 8 P.M., in No. 5 St Andrew
Square. After business, Essay by Mr Macmichael. Annual Social Meeting, 10th January 1879,
in Masonic Hall— the Marquis of Stafford in the chair. Quarterly Meeting, 7th March 1879, at
8 P.M., in No. 5 St Andrew Square. After business, Essay.
The Association has opened Gaelic Music and Reading Classes in the Free Tron Church,
Chambers Street, open to all Highlanders, every Tuesday, from 8 to 10 P.M. Mr D.
Robertson conducts the singing, and Mr Alex. Mackay the Gaelic reading class.
THE HEBBUEN CELTIC ASSOCIATION.
Chief— J. Macfadyen Chieftains — J. Matheson and W. Matheson
Secretary — Alex. J. Macleod Treasurer — D. Macgregor
Committee.
J. Macleod Campbell.
D. Colquhoun
J. Macleod
S. Little
H. Sutherland
F. Junor
D. Corbett.
L. Grant
J. Munro
J. Dunn
First Friday of each month set apart for reading MS. Magazine made up of original contribu-
tions supplied by the members during the month. This Periodical is afterwards circulated
among the members. Second Friday— General business. Third Friday— Debates on Celtic
subjects. Fourth Friday— Amusements ; Gaelic and English songs, recitations, &c., varied by
Highland dances, pipe music, and cognate subjects.
3G THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
COMUNN GA1DHEALACH GHLASCHU.
GLASGOW HIGHLAND ASSOCIATION.
OFFICE-BEARERS, 1878-9.
Chief— Clvmy Macpherson of Cluny //.<,/>./•«>•# Chieftain— Duncan Sharp, Keppoch Hill
fauna-— Messrs Duncan White anclJames Fraser
Secretary — J. G. Mackay, 1.">S Plantation Street Treasurer— John Munro
CUSPAIK. — September 3, 1878— " Eaclulraidh nan Seanna Ghaidheal," by Mr Duncan White.
October 1— " Innis Ghall," by Mr Norman Morrison. November 5—" Slainte," by Mr M. Mac-
donald. Decembers — " An Gaidheal 's a' bhaile-mhor," by Mr Henry Whyte. January 7, 1878
'ih-chrahhadh am wcas;; nan Gaidheal," by Mr J. G. Mackay. l-'eliniary 4—" Land Ten-
ure in the Highlands," by Mr W. L. Bogle. March 4— " Tuathanachas am mea-sg nan Gaidheal.'1
by Mr C. A. Walker.
The ordinary meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month. Gaelic Concerts in the
Assembly Rooms, 138 Bath Street, every Saturday evening from October to March inclusive, at
8P.M. ' _ _ __ _
GLASGOW SUTHERLAND ASSOCIATION.
OFFICE-BEARERS.
Patron— His Grace the Duke of Sutherland, K.G.
President— John Mackay, C.E., Swansea
Vice-President — William Sutherland, F.E.I. S., Crossbill
Secretary— Angus Sutherland, 230 Argyle St. Treagurer— Angus Mackay, Garscube Road
Directors — Messrs James Matheson, Gilbert Mackintosh, Charles Fraser, John G.
Mackay, and George Macleod
The ordinary meetings are held on the first Thursday of the months of January, February,
March, April, October, November, and December.
GLASGOW COWAL SOCIETY.
OFFICE-BEARERS, 1878-9.
Honorary President — The Most Noble the Marquis of Lome
President— Colin Brown Vice-P resident— John Macfie
Directors —
D. Macgregor
Duncan Black
John Maclean
J. Mackellar
Peter Maclean
M. Hunter, jun.
Duncan Currie
D. C. Maclean
Captain Alex. Maclean
Treasurer— Duncan Whyte, 326 Duke Street
Secretary— James Mackellar, 433 New City Road
SYLLABUS, 1878-9. — September 27, 1878 — Address, by the President. October 25— Mackinlay's
Explorations in Australia, by Mr 1). Whyte. November 29 — Ossianic Poetry, and its allusions
to Cowal Scenery, by Mr Archibald Brown. December 20— Railway Clearing House, by Mr D.
Campbell. January 31, 1879— Druidism, by Mr Archibale Whyte. February 28— Poetry, by Mr
D. D. Maclean. March 28— Depopulation of the Natives of Cowal during the present century,
with a sketch of its Topography and Family Names, by Mr D. C. Maclean. April 25 — General
business meeting.
The ordinary meetings of the Society are held on the above dates, at 7.45 P.M., within the
Religious Institution Rooms, 112 Buchanan Street, Glasgow.
THE GLASGOW SHINTY ASSOCIATION.
OFFICE-BEARERS, 1878-9.
President — Capt. James Menzies, 105th L.R.V.
Vioe-Pregident—J. G. Mackay, 158 Plantation Street (Ossian).
Secretary— Malcolm Leitch, 74 Parson Street (Inveraray)
Treasurer — Alexander Miickellar, 31 Raeberry Street (Cowal)
THE GREENOCK HIGHLAND SOCIETY.
Chief— The Most Noble the Marquis of Lome.
Patrons.
The Most Noble the Marquis of Bute | Sir Michael R. Shaw Stewart, Baronet.
President— James Johnson Grieve. Vice-President—John Fleming.
OFFICE-BEARERS.
John Erskine Walter Grieve Hugh Mackay
John Cameron Dr Macraild |
Directors.
3. G. Ross
A. Sinclair
D. .Mackintosh
John Campbell
John Thomson
S. Nicolson
Graham Bremner
Archibald Cook
R. Brown
Harry Buchanan
John M. Campbell
D. Campbell
Kenneth Mackaskill
J. Kerr
R. Duncan
James Mackenzie
William Cook
Neil Brown
Treasurer— James Brown.
Joint Secretaries- {%• %%$£**' <* Nicolson street. and
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 37
THE LONDON" HIGHLAND CAMANACHD CLUB.
Patron— The Right Hon. Lord Lovat
President — Right Hon. Lord Colin Campbell, M.P.
Chief— J. W. Malcolm of Poltalloch
Honorary Captain — Charles Fraser-Mackintosh, M.P.
Chieftain — Donald Grant, Great St Helen's, B.C.
Captain— J. Maedonald-Cameron, F.C.S., South Kensington, W.
Vice-Captain — Archibald Mactavish, Albany Street, Regent's Park, W.
Club-Bearer — A. Macrae-Chisholni, Old Broad Street, E.C.
Treasurer — Archibald Mackintosh, Orris Villa, Hammersmith, W.
Secretary— Alister Maclennan, Woburn Place, Russell Square, W.C.
Members meet for practice and play every alternate Saturday during the season at Wimbledon.
The annual Club dinner takes place in December.
BIRMINGHAM CELTIC SOCIETY.
OFFICE-BEARERS.
Chief— Jonathan Nicolson
Chieftains — A. R. Munro and A. Maclure
Treasurer — Angus Macgregor Secretary — D. Skinner, 127 Cattell Road
Members of Council —
D. Campbell D. Macinnes A. Macintyre
D. Macarthur A. Macdonald
M. Macinnes
ARGYLLSHIRE GATHERING, OBAN.
COMMITTEE.
The Marquis of Lome, K.T., President.
Stewards.
Lieutenant-Colonel C. A. Macdougall of Macdougall, Convener
Lieutenant-Colonel C. Greenhill Gardyne of Glenforsa
J. Campbell of Kilberry.
N. M. Macdonald of Dunach.
Colin C. Finlay, yr. of Castle Toward.
Secretary and Treasurer — J. Fraser Sim, Oban
Bankers — National Bank of Scotland, Oban
fittiWi»ujfS^-Breadalbans Street, Oban
The Society hold one Social Meeting annually.
GLASGOW ISLAY ASSOCIATION.
OFFICE-BEARERS— SESSION, 1878-9.
Patrons.
John F. Campbell of Islay Colin Hay, Ardbeg, Islay
Kirkman Finlay. Dunlossit, Islay
Honorary Presidents.
Crawford Graham, Lagavulin, Islay Duncan MacCalluin, Glasgow
Rev. Robt. Blair, M.A., St Columba, Glasgow | L. Maclean, Islay House, Islay
Honorary Secretary— Duncan Macgregor, Glasgow
Directors.
Mai. Smith, Chairman Joseph Hill, Vice-Chairman
Arch. Sinclair
Neil Macarthur
Angus Macallister
Duncan Macniven
Duncan Macleod
John Ogilvie
N. Gilchrist
Jn. Cameron
Don. Macdougall
John Love
Treasurer — Samuel Macfadyen, Glasgow
Secretary — Donald Martin, 239 New City Road, Glasgow
Assistant Secretary— Arch. Maccalluin, Glasgow
GLASGOW CELTIC SOCIETY— INSTITUTED 1857.
OFFICE-BEARERS FOR 1878.
Chief— The Earl of Dunmore
President — John Orr Ewing of liallikinrain, M.P.
Vice-President — Duncan Smith, 115 St Vincent Street, Glasgow
Hon. Treasurer — John Elder, 151 Hope Street, Glasgow
Hon. Srcretary— George Rennie, 38 West George Street, Glasgow
Directors —
Arch. Macdougall
Jas. Macmillan
Donald Brown
John Macmillan, 70 Mitchell Street, Glasgow
John Elder, 151 Hope Street, Glasgow
James Dewar, Renfrew Court, Glasgow
Alex. Macneill, 20 Union Street, Glasgow
Captain Menzies, 66 Bath Street, Glasgow
James Fleming, 83 Jamaica Street, Glasgow
Dr Buchanan, 24 Westminster Terrace, Glasgow
Neil Sinclair, 42 Miller Street, Glasgow
George Rennie, 38 West George Street, Glasgow
Colin Campbell, 8 Bothwell Street, Glasgow
Duncan Macdougall, 302 Buchanan Street,
Glasgow
38 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
GLASGOW PERTHSHIRE ASSOCIATION.
OFFICE-BEARERS FOR 1878.
Patron— Charles Stirling Home Drummond Moray of Blairdrummoml and Abercairney
President — Peter Gardner, \V.S. Late President — Charles Maclean
Directors —
John Hutchison
It. M. Buchanan
William Macculloch
A. M. Robertson
Secretury and Tre
James Menzies
Professor Ramsay
George Ogilvie
Laurence Robertson
asurer— George Gray, 72 Hutches
James Cleland Burns
James Blair
John Muir
William MacOnie
3n Street, Glasgow
GLASGOW NOETHEEN HIGHLAND BENEVOLENT SOCIETY.
Patron Vice-Patron — George Sutherland of Forse
President — George Munro, Elmbauk Crescent Ex-President — John Matheson, yr. of Cordale.
Ordinary Directors —
George Macleod, 69 Ingrain Street
George Munro, 25 Elmbank Crescent
Cluny Macpherson, 135 St Vincent Street
James Fraser, 41 North Albion Street
Robert Murray, 41 North Albion Street
George Sinclair, 199 St Vincent Street
Alexander Mackay, 20 Union Street
George Macbeth, 29 Clyde Place
J ohn Bannerman, British Linen Bank,QueenSt.
William Sinclair, 199 St Vincent Street
Kenneth Macleod, Ingram Street
John Macmillan, 70 Mitchell Street
Treasurer— George Sinclair, 199 St Vincent Street
Secretary — Martin Mackay, 89 West Regent Street
The Directors meet quarterly on the second Wednesday of January, April, July, and October
in each year. The objects of the Society are entirely of a Benevolent character.
FINGAL LODGE OF GOOD TEMPLARS— (FAEDACH FHINN).
OFFICE-BEARERS.
D. Macpherson, D.G.W.C.T. D. Nicolson, W.S.
D. Machines, W.C.T. J. Macphail, W.T.
Meets every Friday in the St Clair Hall, 25 Robertson Street, at 8 P.M. All business con-
ducted in Gaelic.
COMUNN TIE NAM BEANN, GLASGOW.
D. Macpherson, President 3. Nicholson, Secretary
D. Machines, V ice-President J. Macphail, Treasurer
Directors— A. Campbell, J. Macfadyen, J. Macphail, J. Campbell, and A. Macfadyen.
Gaelic Concerts held every Saturday in the Hall, 56 Carrick Street, from September to March
inclusive, at 8 P.M.— D. Macpherson, Chairman.
GLASGOW AEGYLLSHIEE SOCIETY— INSTITUTED IN 1851.
OFFICE-BEARERS.
President— James Alexander Campbell of Strcathro
Treasurer— Colin Campbell, 8 Bothwell Street, Glasgow
Ordinary Directors —
Lachlan Cowan
Samuel Dow, junr.
Rev. Robert Blair
Alexander C. Hunter John Macinillan
Donald Ross Neil Sinclair
John B. Wright And. Galbraith
The above are also Trustees.
Seeretary — Duncan Macdougall, Solicitor, 302 Buchanan Street, Glasgow
The obj
Fan
wise
be considered proper— i .
nected with Argyllshire, whether resident there or in Glasgow. Annual Contribution by Ordi-
nary Members— Three Guineas.
[We propose publishing the Directory of Celtic Societies annually in future, and we shall
esteem it a favour if the above Societies, and others who have not this your supplied us with the
necessary information, will kindly aid us in making the next one more perfect and complete.]
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 39
WILLIAM JOLLY, H.M.I.S., ON TEACHING GAELIC IN SCHOOLS.
-o
IN his official report to the Education Department, Mr Jolly writes as
follows : —
Gaelic has gained large attention of late, and is a subject of great importance, in-
volving as it does the question of the right use in schools of the daily language of 300,000
of our people. Having given it some study, I would briefly state the conclusions at
•which I have arrived regarding it :—
1. In Highland schools, we ought to read English first, as the language of trade,
comm'eree, current literature, and general intercourse, necessary for success in life, and
desired universally by Highlanders themselves. There are some theoretic grounds for
learning to read the native tongue before a foreign one, but the question in this case is
one of what is most expedient, and in the end most successful, in regard to both lan-
guages, in the short school-life of Highland children ; and the idea of reading Gaelic
first is 'only entertained by a few enthusiasts. English being foreign and more difficult,
it could not be acquired to any purpose if one or two years of the five or six of school
life were first devoted to another language. If school time is short enough for English-
speaking children, with all their advantages, to gain even a meagre power over it, why
allow less time to a Gaelic child to learn it, to whom it is a foreign tongue ? But by
beginning with English, Gaelic may be read with ease in a short time, when a child is
able to read English, for he has merely to apply the power of reading which he has
acquired to the language he knows and uses. So that the end of the enthusiasts would
itself be gained by the more rational method, while increased power over English would
also be obtained.
2. Gaelic should be used orally in the teaching of English from the first, in order to
get at and train the intelligence of Gaelic children, and to make the teaching of English
more thorough. Of the wisdom of this course in all possible cases, there cannot be one
moment's doubt, for it is an application of the universal educational axiom of teaching
the unknown through and by the known, and it is especially necessary in the present
case. This should be done, not only in regard to words, but in regard to the matter of
the lessons. In the case of infant-school lessons to purely Gaelic speaking children,
Gaelic would require to be used exclusively at first, if the work is to be in any way
intelligent. But in all cases care should be taken to use English more and more, so as to
give the children increasing power over it, the amount of English used being, of course,
determined by the extent of their knowledge of it. There is a tendency with many
Highland teachers to use Gaelic too much, on account, no doubt, of the greater ease and
pleasure of using it. This retards progress, however, and should be guarded against.
Even those who wish Gaelic "stamped out" (and there are not a few Highlanders who
have strong views on this point), could best effect their object by a judicious cultivation
of Gaelic in teaching English, so as to train the intelligence through it ; because the
more English is intelligently understood and used by Gaelic children, the sooner will it
become the general speech of the people, and the sooner, therefore, will Gaelic die. So
that both the friends and enemies of Gaelic have an interest in using it for training
intelligence.
3. The importance of Gaelic literature as an instrument of education and culture to
the Gaelic people should be recognised in the teaching of Gaelic children. It is in and
by the mother tongue of a people alone, with its thousand memories ef home and youth,
play and friendship, nature and religion, and with its countless avenues to the deeper
feelings, that the education of the heart and the higher nature can be truly carried on ;
it is by it alone that sentiment, feeling, devotion, and even the higher intellect can be
really trained. And the mother tongue becomes a stronger instrument of culture when
it contains a good and generous literature. Our school education should look beyond
the little time spent within school walls to the after education of the man, and give him
the power of pursuing this, by the use of the literature that appeals to and is best able
to penetrate and mould his nature and touch its deeper springs. No foreign literature,
however splendid, can do this. It must be done through the language of home, youth,
love, and daily lite, if there is a literature in that tongue. And such a literature exists
in Gaelic, able to perform this higher function to the Highlander, abundant, varied, aad
powerful, full of fine sentiment, pleasant humour, lyrical beauty, deep feeling, practical
wisduni, and natural life.
In a closing paragraph, Mr Jolly says that this question in no way touches
40
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE,
the other question of the desirability or otherwise of Gaelic dying out as a
spoken tongue, which in many ways would be an advantage to the people : — -
The teaching of it intelligently would not retard that certain issue of national life
one single hour— it would undoubtedly hasten it. But while Gaelic is spoken, while it
is the hourly language of nearly half -a-million of our people, and while it is used by many
more, it would seem to be but simple justice, if not higher wisdom, to recognise this
fact, and to act upon it in our schools.
HO-RO MO NIGH'N DONN BHOIDHEACH.
In moderate time.
cTW-
^=*
A nighean donn nam blath - shuil, Gur og a thug mi gradh dhut —
Chorus— Ho - ro mo nigh'n donn bhoidheach, Hi ri nao nigh'u donn bhoidheach,
D.C. for Chorus.
m
3
I r
Tha d'iamhaidh ghaoil a's d'ailleachd, A ghuath tigh'nn fo m' uiilh.
Mo chaileag laghach bhoidheach, Co phosainn ach thu ?
KEY A.
: s, I d :-. t, 1 1, : s, I d : — | B, : s, 1 d :-. r ! f : m I r :- I m
:f s : s | m :s s, :— | d :r
D.C. for Chorus.
m :-
Cha cheil mi air an t-saoghal,
Gu bheil mo mhiann 's mo ghaol ort ;
'S ged chaidh mi uait air faondradh,
Cha chaochail mo run.
Ho-ro, &c.
'N uair bha mi ann ad lathair,
Bu shona bha mo laithean ; —
A' sealbhachadh do mhanrain,
A's aille do ghnuis.
Ho-ro, &c.
Gnuis aoidheil, bhanail, mhalda
Na h-oigh a's caoimhe nadur ;
I suairce, ceanail, baigheil,
Lan grais agns muirn.
Ho-ro, &c.
Ach riamh o 'n dh' fhag mi t' fhiauuis,
Gu bheil mi dubhach, cianail ;
Mo chridhe trom ga phianadh
Le iarguin do ruin.
Ho-ro, &c.
Ge lurach air a' chabhsair
Na mnathan oga Gallda,
A righ ! gur beag mo gheall-s'
Air bhi' sealltainn 'n an gnuis.
Ho-ro, &c.
'S ann tha mo run 's na beanntaibh,
Far bheil mo ribhinn ghreannar,
Mar ros am fasach Shamhraidh,
An gleann fad' o shuil.
Ho-ro, &c.
Ach 'n uair a thig an Samhradh,
Bheir mine sgriob do 'n ghleann ud,
'S gu 'n tog mi leam do 'n Ghalldachd,
Gu h-annsail, am flur.
Ho-ro, &c.
NOTE. — " Ho-ro mo nighean donn bhoidheach "i s so well known throughout the High-
lands that it is unnecessary to say anything in its praise in now presenting it to the
readers of the Celtic Magazine. "W. M'K.
THE
CELTIC MAGAZINE.
No. XXXVIII. DECEMBER 1878. VOL. IV.
HISTORY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE,
WITH GENEALOGIES OF THE PKINC1PAL FAMILIES.
BY THE EDITOR.
[CONTINUED.]
XVII. WILLIAM, Fifth EARL OF SEAFORTH and Sixth LORD MAC-
KENZIE OF KINTAIL, known among the Highlanders as " William
Dubh." He does not appear at any time to have assumed the title of
Marquis. He succeeded at a most important era in the history of Scot-
land, just when the country was divided on the great question of
union with England, which, in spite of the fears of most of the
Highland chiefs and nobles of Scotland, turned out in the end so
beneficial to both. He would, no doubt, during his residence with his
exiled parents in France, have imbibed strong Jacobite feelings. We have
been able to obtain but little information of William's proceedings during
the first few years of his rule. He appears to have continued abroad, for
on the 23d of May 1709 an order appears addressed to the forester at
Letterewe signed by the Earl's mother, the Dowager " Frances Seaforth."
On the 22d of June 1713 she addresses a letter to Colin Mackenzie of Kin-
craig, in which she says — " I find my son William is fully inclined to do
justice to all. Within fifteen days he will be at Brahan."* It also is
signed "Frances Seaforth."
At this time a great majority of the southern nobles were ready to
break out into open rebellion, while the Highland chiefs were almost to
a man prepared for a rising. This soon became apparent to the Government.
Bodies of armed Highlanders were seen moving about in several districts in
the North. A party appeared in the neighbourhood of Inverness which
was, however, soon dispersed by the garrison. The Government became
alarmed, and the lords justices sent a large number of half-pay officers,
chiefly from the Scottish regiments, to officer the militia, under command
of Major-General Whitham, commander-in-chief at the time in Scotland.
These proceedings alarmed the Jacobites, most of whom returned to their
homes. The Duke of Gordon was confined in Edinburgh Castle, and the
Marquis of Huntly and Lord Drummond in their respective residences.
The latter fled to the Highlands and offered bail for his good behaviour.
* Original produced at Allangrange Service in 1829.
42 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Captain Campbell of Glcndaruel, who had obtained a commission from
the late Administration to raise an independent company of Highlanders,
was apprehended at Inverlochy and sent prisoner to Edinburgh. Sir
Donald Macdonald of Sleat was also seized and committed to the same
place, and a proclamation was issued offering a reward of ,£100,000
sterling for the apprehension of the Chevalier should he land or attempt
to land in great Britain. King George, on his arrival, threw himself
entirely into the arms of the Whigs, who alone shared his favours. A
spirit of the most violent discontent was excited throughout the whole
kingdom, and the populace, led on by the Jacobite leaders, raised tumults
in different parts of the King's dominions. The Chevalier, taking ad-
vantage of this excitement, issued his manifesto to the chief nobility, espe-
cially to the Dukes of Shrewsbury, Marlborough, and Argyll, who handed
them to the Secretaries of State.
The King dissolved Parliament in the month of January 1715, and
issued an extraordinary proclamation calling together a new Parliament.
The "Whigs were successful both in England and Scotland, but particularly
so in the latter, where a majority of the peers, and forty out of the forty-five
members then returned to the Commons, were in favour of the King's
Government. The principal struggle was in the county of Inverness,
between Mackenzie of Prestonhall strongly supported by Glen-
garry and the other Jacobite chiefs, and Forbes of Culloden, brother of
the celebrated President, who carried the election through the influence
of Brigadier-General Grant and the friends of Lord Lovat.
The Earl of Mar, who had rendered himself extremely unpopular among
the Jacobite chiefs, afterwards rewarded some of his former favourites by
advocating the repeal of the Union. He was again made Secretary of
State for Scotland in 1713, but was unceremoniously dismissed from
office by George I., and vowed revenge. He afterwards found his way
north to Fife, and subsequently to the Braes of Mar. On the 19th of
August 1715, he despatched letters to the principal Jacobites, among
whom was Lord Seaforth, inviting them to attend a grand hunting
match at Braeinar on the 27th of the same month. This was a ruse
meant to cover his intention to raise the standard of rebellion, and that
the Jacobites were let into the secret is evident from the fact that as
early as the 6th of August those in Edinburgh and the neighbourhood
were aware of his intentions to come to Scotland. Under pretence of
attending this grand match a considerable number of noblemen and
gentlemen arrived at Aboyne about the appointed time, among whom
were the Marquis of Huntly, eldest son of the Duke of Gordon; the
Marquis of Tullibardine, eldest son of the Duke of Athole ; the Earls of
Nithsdale, Marischal, Traquair, Errol, Southesk, Carnwarth, Seaforth,
Linlithgow, and others ; the Viscounts Kilsyth, Kenmure, Kingston, and
Stormont; Lords Eollo, Duffus, Drammond, Strathallan, Ogilvie, and
Nairne ; and about twenty -six gentlemen of influence in the Highlands,
among whom were Generals Hamilton and Gordon, Glengarry, Campbell
of Glendaruel, and the lairds of Auchterhouse and Auldbar.* Mar made
a stirring address, expressing regret for his past conduct in favouring the
* History of the Highland Clans ; Kae, p. 189 ; Annals of King George, pp. 15-16,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 43
Union, and, now that his eyes were opened, promising to do all in his
power to retrieve the past and make his countrymen again a free people.
He produced a commission from James appointing him Lieutenant-
Geueral and Commander of all the Jacobite forces in Scotland, informed
the meeting that he was supplied with money, and that an arrangement
had been made by which he would be enabled to pay regularly any forces
that might be raised, so that no gentleman who should join his standard
with his followers would be put to any expense, and the country would
be entirely relieved of the expenses of conducting the war; after which
the meeting unanimously resolved to take up arms to establish the
Chevalier on the Scottish throne. They then took the oath of fidelity to
the Earl as representative of James VIII. and to each other, and
separated, each going home promising to raise his vassals and be in readi-
ness to join Mar whenever they were summoned to do so. They had
scarcely arrived at their respective destinations when they were called
upon to meet the Earl at Aboyne on the 3d of September following,
where, with only sixty followers, Mar proclaimed the Chevalier at Castle-
town in Braemar, after which he proceeded to Kirkmichael, where, on the
6th of September, he raised his standard in presence of a force of 2000
men, mostly consisting of horse. When in course of erection the ball on
the top of the pole fell off. This, which was regarded by the Highlanders
as a bad omen, cast a gloom over the proceedings of the day.
Meanwhile Colonel Sir Hector Munro, who had served as Captain of
the Earl of Orkney's Regiment with reputation in the wars of Queen
Anne, raised his followers, who, with a body of Rosses, amounted to
about 600 men. With these, in November 1715, he encamped at Alness,
and on the 6th of October following he was joined by the Earl of Suther-
land, accompanied by his son, Lord Strathnaver, and by Lord Reay, with
an additional force of 600, in the interest of the Whig Government, and
to cover their own districts and check the movements of the Western
clans in effecting a junction with the Earl- of Mar, whom Earl William
and Sir Donald Macdonald had publicly espoused, as already stated, at
the pretended hunting match in Braemar. This meeting at Alness had
the effect of keeping Seaforth in the North. If the Earl and his mother's
clans had advanced a month earlier the Duke of Argyll could not have
dared to make head against Mar's united forces, who might have pushed
an army across the Forth sufficient to have paralyzed any exertion that
might have been made to have preserved a shadow of the existing Govern-
ment in Scotland. It may be said that if Dundee had lived to have held
the commission of Mar, such a junction would not have been necessary to
effect, which amounts to no more than that the life of Dundee would
have been tantamount to a restoration of the Stewarts. Mar was not
trained in the camp, nor did he possess the military genius of a Dundee.
Had Montrose a moiety of his force things would have been otherwise.
Mar, trusting to Seaforth's reinforcement, was inactive, and Seaforth was
for a time kept in by the collocation of Sutherland's levies, till he was
also joined by 700 Macdonalds and detachments from other names,
amounting, with his own followers, to 3000 men, with which he instantly
attacked the Earl of Sutherland, who fled with his mixed army precipit-
ately to Bonar-Bridge, where they dispersed. A party of Grants on, their
44 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
way to join them, on "being informed of Sutherland's retreat, thought it
prudent to retrace their steps. Seaforth, thus relieved, levied considerable
fines on Munro's territories, which were fully retaliated in his absence
with the Jacobite army, to join which he now set out ; and Sir John
Mackenzie of Coul, whom lie had ordered to occupy Inverness, was, after
a gallant resistance, forced by Lord Lovat, at the head of a mixed body
of Erasers and Grants, to retreat with his garrison to Koss-shire. " Whether
he followed his chief to Perth does not appear; but on Seaforth's
arrival that Mar seems for the first time to have resolved on the passage
of the Firth — a movement which led to the Battle of Sheriffuiuir — is
evident and conclusive as to the different features given to the whole
campaign by the Whig camp at Alness, however creditable to the noble
Earl and his mother's confederates. But it is not our present province to
enter on a military review of the conduct of either army preceding this
consequential conflict, or to decide to which party the victory, claimed
"by both parties, properly belonged; suffice it to say that above 3000 of
Seaforth's men formed a considerable part of the second line, and seem
from the general account on that subject to have done their duty."* A
great many of Seaforth's followers were slain, among whom were four
gentlemen who appear to have signally distinguished themselves. These
were John Mackenzie of Hilton, who commanded a company of the Mac-
kenzies, John Mackenzie of Applecross, John of Conchra, and John of
Achtertyre. Their prowess on the field has been commemorated by one
of their followers, John MacRae, who escaped and returned home, in an
excellent Gaelic poem, known as " Latha Blar an t-Siorra," or the " Day
of Sheriffniuir," and which we shall preserve elsewhere. The fate of
these renowned warriors was keenly regretted by their Highland country-
men, and they are still remembered and distinguished among them as
" Ceithear lanan na h-Alba," or the " Four Johns of Scotland."
During the previous troubles Islandonain Castle got into the hands of
the King's troops, but some time before Sheriffniuir it was again secured
by the following stratagem : — A neighbouring tenant applied to the
Governor for some of the garrison to cut his corn, as he feared from the
appearance of the sky and the croaking of ravens that a heavy storm was
impending, and that nothing but a sudden separation of his crop from
the ground could save his family from starvation. The Governor readily
yielded to his solicitations and sent the garrison of Government soldiers
then in the castle to his aid, who, on their return, discovered the ruse
too late ; for the Kintail men were by this time reaping the spoils, and
had possession of the castle. " The oldest inhabitant of the parish re-
members to have seen the Kintail men under arms, dancing on the leaden
roof, just as they were setting out for the Battle of Sheriffmuir, where
this resolute band was cut to pieces, "t
Inverness continued meanwhile in possession of the Mackenzies, under
command of the Governor, Sir John Mackenzie of Coul, and George Mac-
kenzie of Gruinard. Macdonald of Keppoch was on his march to support
Sir John at Inverness, and Lord Lovat, learning this, gathered his men
together, and on the 7th of November decided to throw himself
* Bennetsfield MS. t Old Statistical Account of Kintail, 1792.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 45
across the river Ness and place his forces directly between Keppoch and
the Governor. Sir John, on discovering the movement of Lovat, resolved
to make a sally out of the garrison and place the enemy between him and
the advancing Keppoch, where he could attack him with advantage, but
Keppoch became alarmed and returned home through Glen-Urquhart,
whereupon Lord Lovat marched straight upon Inverness, and took up a
position about a mile to the west of the town. The authorities were
summoned to send out the garrison and the Governor, or the town would
be burned and the inhabitants put to the sword. Preparations were
made for the attack, but Sir John Mackenzie, considering any further
defence hopeless, on the 10th of November collected together all the
boats he could find, and at high water safely effected his escape from the
town, when Lovat marched in without opposition. His Lordship
advised the Earl of Sutherland of his possession of Inverness, and on the
15th November the latter, leaving Colonel Eobert Munro of Fowlis as
Governor of Inverness, went with his followers, accompanied by Lord
Lovat with some of his men, to Brahan Castle, and compelled the respon-
sible men of the Clan Mackenzie who were not in the South with the
Earl of Seaforth, to come under an obligation for their peaceable be-
haviour, and to return the arms previously taken from the Munroes by
Lord Seaforth at Alness ; to release the prisoners in their possession, and
promise not to assist Lord Seaforth directly or indirectly in his efforts
against the Government ; that they would grant to the Earl of Suther-
land any sum of money he might require from them upon due notice for
the use of the Government ; and, finally, that Brahan Castle, the principal
residence of the Earl of Seaforth, should be turned into a garrison for his
Majesty King George.
Seaforth returned home from Sheriffmuir, and again collected his
men near Brahan, but the Earl of Sutherland, with a large number of his
own men, Lord Reay's, the Munroee, Rosses, Culloden's men, and the
Erasers, marched to meet him and encamped at Beauly, within a few
miles of Seaforth's camp, and prepared to give him battle, " which, when
my Lord Seaforth saw, he thought it convenient to capitulate, own the
King's authority, disperse his men, and propose the mediation of these
Government friends for his pardon. Upon his submission the King was
graciously pleased to send down orders that upon giving up his arms and
coming into Inverness, he might expect his pardon ; yet upon the
Pretender's Anvil at Perth and my Lord Huntly's suggestions to him
that now was the time for them to appear for their King and country,
and that what honour they lost at Dunblane might yet be regained ; but
while he thus insinuated to my Lord Seaforth, he privately found that
my Lord Seaforth had by being an early suitor for the King's pardon, by
promising to lay down his arms, and owning the King's authority, claimed
in a great measure to an assurance of his life and fortune, which he
thought proper for himself to purchase at the rate of disappointing Sea-
forth, with hopes of standing by the good old cause, till Seaforth, with
that vain hopes, lost the King's favour that was promised him ; which
Huntly embraced by taking the very first opportunity of deserting the
Pretender's cause, and surrendering himself upon terms made with him
of safety to his life and fortune. This sounded so sweet to him that he
46 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
sleeped so secure as never to dream of any preservation for a great many
good gentlemen that made choice to stand by him and serve under him,
than many other worthy nobles who would die or banish rather than not
show their personal bravery, and all other friendly offices to their ad-
herents."*
In February 1716, hopeless of attaining his object, the unfortunate
son of James II. left Scotland, the land of his forefathers, never to visit
it again, and Earl William followed him to the common resort of the
exiled Jacobites of the time. On the 7th of the following May an act of
attainder was passed against the Earl and other chiefs of the Jacobite
party. Their estates were forfeited, though practically in many cases, and
especially in that of the Earl of Seaforth, it was found extremely difficult
to carry the forfeiture into effect, as we shall presently see. The Master
of Sinclair is responsible for the base and unfounded allegation that the
Earl of Seaforth, the Marquis of Huntly, and other Jacobites, were in
treaty with the Government to deliver up the Chevalier to the Duke of
Argyll, that they might procure better terms for themselves than they
could otherwise expect. " This odious charge, which is not corroborated
by any other writer, must be looked upon as highly improbable. "t If
any proof of the untruthfulness of this charge is necessary it will be
found in the fact that Earl "William returned afterwards to the Island of
Lews, and re-embodied his vassals there under an experienced officer,
Campbell of Orinundel, who had served with distinction in the Russian
army, and it was not until a large Government force was sent over against
him, which he found it impossible successfully to oppose, that he recrossed
to the mainland and escaped to France.
Among the " gentlemen prisoners " taken to the Castle of Stirling on
the day after the Battle of Sheriifmuir we find the following in a list
published in " Patten's Rebellion " — Kenneth Mackenzie, nephew to Sir
Alexander Mackenzie of Coul ; John Maclean, adjutant to Colonel Mac-
kenzie's Regiment ; Colin Mackenzie of Kildin, captain of Fairburn's
Regiment ; Hugh MacRaw, Donald MacRaw, and Christopher MacRae.
The war declared against Spain in December 1718 again revived the
hopes of the Jacobites, who, in accordance with a stipulation between
the British Government and the Duke of Orleans, then Regent of France,
had previously, with the Chevalier and the Duke of Oruiond at their
head, been ordered out of France. They repaired to Madrid where they
held conferences with Cardinal Alberoni, and concerted an invasion of
Great Britain. On the 10th of March 1719 a fleet, consisting of ten
men-of-war and twenty-one transports, having on board five thousand
men, a large quantity of ammunition, and thirty thousand muskets, sailed
from Cadiz under the command of the Duke of Ormond, with instructions
to join the rest of the expedition at Corunna, and to make a descent at
once upon England, Scotland, and Ireland. The sorry fate of this expe-
dition is well-known. Only two frigates reached its destination, the rest
having been dispersed and disabled off Cape Finisterre by a violent storm
.which lasted about twelve days. The two ships which survived the
storm and reached Scotland had on board the Earl of Seaforth and Earl
* Lord Lovat's Account of the Taking of Inverness, ration's Rebellion,
t Fullarton's Highland Clans, p. 471.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 47
Marischal, the Marquis of Tullibardine, some field officers, three hundred
Spaniards, and arms and ammunition for two thousand men. They
entered Lochalsh about the middle of May. They effected a landing in
Kintail and were joined by a body of Seaforth's vassals, and a party of
Macgregors under command of the famous Rob Roy ; but the other
Jacobite chiefs, remembering their previous disappointments and misfor-
tunes, stood aloof until the whole of Ormond's forces should arrive.
General Wightman, who was stationed at Inverness, hearing of their
arrival, marched to meet them with 2000 Dutch troops and a detachment
of the garrison at Inverness. Seaforth's forces and their allies took pos-
session of the pass of Glenshiel, but on the approach of the Government
forces they retired to the pass of Strachell, which they decided to defend
at all hazards. They were here engaged by General Wightman, who,
after a smart skirmish of about three hours' duration, and after inflicting
some loss upon the Highlanders, drove them from one eminence to another
till night came on, when the Highlanders, their chief having been seriously
wounded, and giving up all hopes of a successful resistance, retired
during the night to the mountains, carrying Seaforth along with them ;
and the Spaniards, next morning, surrendered themselves prisoners of
war.* Seaforth, Marischal, and Tullibardine, with the other principal
officers, managed to effect their escape to the Western Isles, from which
they afterwards found their way to the continent. Rob Roy was placed
in ambush with the view of attacking the Royal troops in the rear, and
it is recorded that having more zeal than prudence, he attacked the rear
of the enemy's column before they had become engaged in front ; his
small party was routed, and the intention of placing the King's troops
between two fires was thus defeated. t General Wightman sent a detach-
ment to Islandonain Castle, which he ordered to be blown up and de-
molished.
Wightman advanced from the Highland Capital by Loch-Ness, and
a modern writer pertinently asks " Why he was allowed to pass by such
a route without opposition ? It is alleged that Marischal and Tullibardine
had interrupted the movements of the invaders by ill-timed altercations
about command, but we are provoked to observe that some extraordinary
interposition seems evident to frustrate every scheme towards forwarding
the cause of the ill-fated house of Stuart. Had the Chevalier St George
arrived earlier, as he might have done ; had William Earl of Seaforth
joined the Earl of Mar some time before, as he ought to have done ; and
strengthened as Mar would then have been, had he boldly advanced on
Stirling, as it appears he would have done, Argyll's force would have
been annihilated and James VIII. proclaimed at the Cross of Edinburgh.
Well did the brave Highlanders indignantly demand, 'What did you
* The Spaniards kept their powder magazine and balls behind the manse, but after
the Battle of Glenshiel they set fire to it lest it should fall into the hands of the King's
troops. These balls are still gathered up by sportsmen, and are found in great abund-
ance upon the glebe. — Old Statistical Account of Kintail.
t New Statistical Account of Glenshiel, by the Rev. John Macrae, who gives a
minute description of the scenes of the battle, and informs us that in constructing the
parliamentary road which runs through the Glen a few years ago, several bullets and
pieces of musket barrels were found ; and the green mounds which corer the graves of
the slain, and the ruins of a rude breast-work, which the Highlanders constructed on
the crest of the bill to cover their position, still mark the scene of the coullict,
48 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
call us to arms for ? Was it to run away ? What did our own King
come for ? Was it to see . us butchered by hangmen ? ' There was a
fatuity that accompanied all their undertakings which neutralised intre-
pidity, devotedness, and bravery ; which the annals of no other people
can exhibit, and paltry jealousies which stultified exertions, which, inde-
pendently of political results, astonished Europe at large."*
An Act of Parliament for disarming the Highlanders was passed in
1716, but in some cases to very little purpose, for some of the most dis-
affected clans were better armed than ever, though by the Act the collectors
of taxes were allowed to pay for the arms given in, none were delivered
except those which were broken, old, and unfit for use, and these were
valued at prices far above what they were really worth. Not only so,
but a lively trade in old arms was carried on with Holland and other
continental countries, and these arms were sold to the commissioners as
Highland weapons, at exorbitant prices. Geneial Wade also found in the
possession of the "Highlanders a large quantity of arms which they ob-
tained from the Spaniards who took part in the Rattle of Glenshiel, and
he computed that those Highlanders opposed to the Government possessed
at this time DO less than five or six thousand arms of various kinds.
Wade arrived in Inverness on the 10th of August 1725, and in virtue
of another Act passed in the same year, he was empowered to
proceed to the Highlands and to summon the clans to deliver up their
arms, and carry beveral other recommendations of his own into etfect.
On his arrival he immediately proceeded to business, went to Brahan
Castle, and called on the Mackenzies to deliver up their weapons. He
took those presented to him on the word of Murchison, factor on the
estate, and by the representation of Tarbat, Sir Kenneth Mackenzie of
Cromarty, and Sir Colin Mackenzie of Coul, at the head of 'a large depu-
tation of the clan, he compromised his more rigid instructions and
accepted a selection of worn-out and worthless arms, and at the same time
promised that if the clan exhibited a willing disposition to comply with
the orders of the Government he would use his influence in the following
Parliament to procure a remission for their chief and his followers ;
and we find, to quote our last-named authority, that " through his
means, and the action of other minions of Court (Tarbat was then in
power), Seaforth received a simple pardon by letters patent in 1726, for
himself and clan, whose submission was recognised in the sham form of
delivering their arms, a matter of the less consequence as few of that
generation were to have an opportunity of wielding them again in the
same cause."
(To be Continued.)
THE fourth part of Sinclair's " Oranaiche," recently issued, is in every
way quite up to its predecessors. The next part will complete the work
in accordance with the original intention of the Publishers.
* Bennetsfield MS.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 49
HACO, THE DANE, OE THE PBINCE'S WOOING.
A TRUE ROMANCE OF LOCH-MAREE, IN THREE PARTS.
By J. E. MUDDOCK, author of " A Wingless Angel" " As the Shadoics
Fall," " Lovat, or Out in the '45," $c., $c.
PART II. — THE DUEL TO THE DEATH.
IN the strange and wild looking man who had so suddenly appeared before
him, as if he had risen out of the very bowels of the earth, Haco recog-
nised "Bed Hector of the Hills."
This man was giant-like in his proportions, and his powerful physique,
massive chest, and broad shoulders presented a marked contrast to the
slim, graceful figure of the Prince.
Hector was as wild in nature as he was in appearance. He was chief
of. a small yet savage clan, which, disdaining allegiance to the more
powerful clans, was constantly at war. Hector's whole life had been
passed amidst scenes of rapine and bloodshed. He was a* bloodthirsty as
the wolf, as cunning as the fox, as subtle as the serpent. He carried his
life in his hands, for all men, save those of his own clan, were against
him. He warred for what he was pleased to term his " rights." From
his earliest age he had been taught that power, wealth, and influence were
his birthright, but that this birthright had been stolen from him. By
whom it was not very clear, but at all events it was his special mission to
acquire these things either by fair means or foul. His name had come to
be a name of terror throughout Boss-shire, and even at the present day,
many an auld wife stills the crying of a fractious bairn by telling it that
if it does not cease she will call in Bed Hector. Ferocious, merciless, and
bloodthirsty, no wonder that he had come to be feared, for there was
something wolfish in his nature, and the wolves that prowled about the
mountains, and sneaked through the glens and valleys in search of prey
were not more hated than he. There was one singular trait, however, in
his character, and which in a large measure compensated for his otherwise
fierce and cruel instincts. This was nothing less than an unswerving
gentleness and kindness to women and children.
" I wage war with men," he was fond of saying, " and not with bairns
and women."
The result of this was that not a few women of the district had given
him shelter and food when he had been sorely pressed by his enemies,
and oftentimes those enemies were the husbands of the very women who
were protecting him.
Soon after the Princess Thyra had come to dwell on Isle Maree,
Hector had met her one day in company with some of the monks as they
were returning from one of the religious houses which stood in Glen
Docherty. Hector gazed upon the fair face of the Princess until he be-
came, as it were, entranced. She and the monks saw him, as he stood
beneath the shadow of an overhanging rock, and his coarse and wild'
appearance alarmed her so that they quickened their pace and hurried
50 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
away. Hector did not offer to follow them, but he continued to gaze
after the beautiful girl until she disappeared. Then he wandered away
slowly to the hills. He was thoughtful and silent, and from that moment
a change came over him. The face of the Princess haunted him. He
could never shut it out, and he began to dream that it was within the
region of possibility she might yet be his,. and at no distant date. Day
after day he waited in the same spot in the hope that he might again
meet her, but he waited in vain. Then a strange restlessness stole over
him, and unable longer to control his feelings he determined, in spite of
the superstitious awe with which he, in common with all the Highlanders,
regarded Isle Maree, to visit the island and endeavour to obtain an inter-
view with the woman who — so to speak — had enchanted him.
He went down to the edge of the loch opposite the island, and with
that unflinching boldness which was part of his nature, he plunged into
the dark waters and swam to the island. Dripping and exhausted after
his hazardous feat — for it was a long distance, and the season being winter
the water was terribly cold — he landed, much to the astonishment and
alarm of some of the monks who were busy in the garden of the monastery.
But to assure them of his peaceful intentions, Red Hector devoutly bowed
his knee and crossed himself. Then he drank of the water of the holy
well, and as a still more convincing proof of the peacefulness of his
mission, he drew a coin from his pouch and drove it into the money-tree.
This done, he approached one of the monks, who, from certain indications
in his dress, was superior to the rest, and removing his bonnet from his
massive head, which was covered with coarse, red hair, he bowed low,
and said —
" Holy father, the unusual manner which I have taken to visit you
need cause you no alarm. I was unable to obtain a boat, and moved by
burning impatience I trusted myself to the waters. I come alone, there-
fore is my mission peace."
" Thou art welcome, my son," the monk replied, as he folded his arms
upon his breast, " as are all those who come to our sanctuary with good
intent. But what brings thee here in so unusual a manner?"
" What should bring me, father, save bright eyes and ruddy lips !
What should induce me to risk my life in the treacherous waters of the
loch save love !"
" Love !" the monk echoed in surprise, while his brow darkened with
a frown.
"Aye, even love. Dost think that my heart is stone? Rugged
and wild I am in appearance ; that I know, but I am not without feeling,
not yet dead to the influence of beauty and gentleness."
The monk seemed annoyed and confused, but after a pause he an-
swered, " But why comest thou here to tell me this?"
" Art thou so dull that thou canst not guess that I come to woo one
whose home is here — even the Princess Thyra."
The monk started and looked at his colleagues, then turning to the
bold Hector, who stood shivering in the cold wind, he said, " Surely thou
art mad, my son, to dream of one who is so far above thee."
" Far above me !" Hector cried in a wrathful tone. "Love recognises
no degrees of rank or station, it levels all."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 51
" Grant you that that is true," answered the monk. " Thou shouldst
not forget that the Princess is wedded to the Church, or at least until
such times as her father chooses to appoint her a husband."
" "What care I for her father," Hector exclaimed, as the passion glow
mounted into his swarthy face, for he could not bear to be thwarted,
and his self-possession was leaving him. " I have looked into her face,
and henceforth she and she only can be my light. Give me an oppor-
tunity to woo her, but even though you should oppose me I tell you this,
and the vow of Eed Hector was never yet broken — I will possess her."
" Thou art saucy and insolent," the monk answered, " and let me tell
thee that the Princess Thyra is not for the likes of thee."
At this moment the Princess crossed the garden as she was on her
way to the little chapel. As he caught sight of her form, Hector was
moving towards her without noticing the monk's words, but the monk
caught him by the arm and held him back. Almost foaming with rage,
the Highlander raised his ponderous fist to strike the holy man, but quick
as thought the monk drew a small crucifix from his bosom, and holding
it above Hector's head, he exclaimed —
" Away, thou man of crime and sin, or, by this symbol of holiness
and truth, thou shalt be cursed."
Hector recoiled in horror. Like all the Highlanders, he was very
superstitious, and the thought of being placed under a ban filled him with
a dreadful fear. In a few moments, however, he partly recovered himself.
The wolf had come back into his nature again, and all the gentleness had
died out. He drew his gaunt, powerful figure up, and while his keen
eyes flashed fire, he exclaimed —
" The sanctity of this holy isle protects thee from my wrath, but thy
insolence and churlishness shall not go unpunished j and I swear at every
hazard to possess the Princess Thyra."
"Without another word he turned on his heel, and stalking down to
the water, he plunged in without a moment's hesitation, and swam away.
From the moment that Eed Hector left the island he was a changed
man, and his whole thought was of the Princess Thyra. Twice after that
he met her on the mainland in company with the monks as they re-
turned from their weekly visits to the religious houses which had been
established in the neighbouring glens. On each occasion he took the
opportunity to declare his love in the most impassioned language. But
the Princess turned a deaf ear to him, and told him that it would be
perfectly useless for him to hope that he could ever gain her hand. In
time he learned that she was betrothed to Prince Haco, and then the
man's nature seemed to become more savage, and he swore the most
terrible oath that he would be revenged on his rival.
The Prince was warned against Eed Hector, but he paid little heed to
the warnings, for he did not think it likely that this man would dare to
lift his hand against a scion of the Eoyal House of Denmark. As time
passed and nothing was heard or seen of Hector, Haco had almost for-
gotten him, until at last they stood face to face on that night when the
Prince returned from his interview with the Princess.
As the Prince looked upon the powerful savage before him, a momentary
fc.vr c.msed a snudder to pass over his frame, for he saw that a combat
52 THE CELTIC MAGAZISTE.
with such a foe would be all to his disadvantage. But Haco was
naturally a brave man, and the fear gave place to contempt and scorn.
" Say, i'ello\v," he cried, "what do you mean by this outrage, and why
do you try to make a target of my body for your arrows ?"
A withering smile wreathed itself around Hector's cruel mouth as he
made answer—
" Canst thou ask such a question as that, seeing that thou hast just
left the Avomau who is dearer to me than my own life," he retorted
fiercely.
" And thinke.st thou that she would deign to notice such a savage
wolf as thou art ?" Haco asked scornfully. " Move from my path and let
me pass. Her very name is polluted by being uttered by thy foul lips."
" By the moon that shines in yonder heavens, these words shall cost
thee thy life," Hector cried, as like a tiger springing on its prey he sprang
at llaco's throat.
In point of physique no two men could have been more in opposition
than Haco and Hector, but what the Prince lacked in stature and build,
he made up by litheness and agility. His rapier was knocked from his
hand by the ugly rush of his auta-onist who had drawn his dirk and was
trying to lunge it into Haco's heart. The Prince saw the weapon gleam
in the moonlight. He kne\v that th\s half savage man was pitiless, and
that only the dumb stones and rocks and the whispering trees were there
to witness the death struggle. Help there was none. It was man to
man, and the right would only end when one or both were lying stark and
dead. Suddenly there came before the mental vision of the Prince the
fair and pitiful face of her who was far dearer to him than life. And as
he thought of her and the desolation into which she would be plunged if
he were slain, he seemed to be tilled with almost superhuman strength — a
strength that was begotten by the energy of desperation, if not of despair.
He had seized the wrist of his foe, and held him with a tenacious grip
that the other could not shake off. With all his mighty strength Hector
was unwieldy and clumsy, whereas the Prince had been taught the art of
fence, and he felt that could he but possess himself of his fallen weapon
he could without difficulty place his foe h-ors da combat.
Locked in a deadly embrace the two men struggled like savage animals,
and in trying to get a better hold of his agile foe, Hector dropped his
dirk.
They were on equal terms now — each man was unarmed — and there is
little doubt that in the end Hector would have succeeded, by mere brute
force, in crushing the life out of his antagonist. But suddenly as they
reeled to and fro they both fell, Hector being uppermost. His strong
hands were round the Prince's throat, when the Prince cried —
" Coward ! dastardly coward ! Would you destroy a defenceless and
unarmed man?"
For a moment Eed Hector paused as if weighing the words in his
brain. Then he rose, much to the other's surprise, and while his eyes
flashed and his lip quivered with passion, he answered —
" Coward to your teeth. I am no coward, and I scorn to take advan-
tage of you. Hector of the Hills never yet struck an unarmed man.
Rise and take up your sword." As he spoke he picked up his dirk, and
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 53
grasping it savagely, lie stood on his guard and waited for the Prince to
regain his feet.
Struck by this manly and almost noble trait in Hector's character,
Haco as he rose said —
" I gladly withdraw the epithet. You are no coward, but indeed
a brave man ; and instead of being enemies, we should be friends. I fear
thee not, and yet I say that we should not fight but part in peace."
Hector's face was scarlet with passion, and his eyes gleamed like a
wild cat's.
" Fool ! " he exclaimed, " why do you waste words ? I hate you," he
hissed between his clenched teeth — " hate you," he repeated, with strong
vehemence, " for you are my rival. Take up your sword, or by the God
who made us, I will strike you-down where you stand."
" Can we not settle this matter any other way but by fighting ?" Haco
asked, still anxious to avoid bloodshed.
" No," growled Hector, " only one of us shall ever leave this spot
again alive."
"Without another word the Prince stooped and picked up bis rapier.
Not the shadow of a fear agitated him now. He felt on terms of equality
with his powerful foe, for he was a master in the use of the sword. He
cast one look up to the heavens. Perhaps a hasty prayer was passing
through his brain. The stars and moon were shining brilliantly. The
water of the loch was lapping the shore with a musical plash, and the
night wind stirred the trees into a strange and weird melody. Turning
his eyes from above, the Prince gave one hurried look across the dark
waters to where the holy isle lay steeped in purple shadow, and in whose
peaceful sanctuary his beloved perhaps slept and dreamed of him. In-
audibly he breathed her name, and the thought of her gave him a lion's
heart.
" On thy guard," he cried, as he grasped the handle of his rapier
with a grip of steel.
" Victory to him who draws first blood," growled Hector, as warily he
crept towards his antagonist, and watching his opportunity to spring.
For some moments the two men moved round and round each other like
watchful tigers. Then, with the quickness of thought, the Prince made
a sudden lunge, but the other sprang aside, and in an instant he got under
the Prince's guard, and aimed a terrific blow at his heart. He missed
his aim, however, but the dirk went through the fleshy part of the Prince's
arm, and first blood was drawn.
" Victory to him who draws, first blood," Hector had said, and now as
the Prince remembered the ominous words they seemed to have a fatal
significance. But he lost none of his courage. He knew too well now
that it was a fight to the death. He staggered for a moment, but quickly
recovering himself, and though the warm blood was spurting from the
wound, he darted forward and gashed the Highlander in the neck.
" Blood for blood," he cried exultingly.
Both men were now thoroughly aroused, and for some minutes it was
thrust and parry, parry and thrust. Twice did the Prince succeed in
wounding his foe, and once again the Highlander's dirk drank the royal
blood of Haco. But neither man was mortally wounded, and the sight
54 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE,
of the blood which covered them both only served to arouse them to
more desperate efforts. The fight became furious. The ground beneath
their feet was soaked with gore, and trampled into a pool. Each of the
combatants was desperately wounded and bleeding profusely ; and at last,
seizing an opportunity, when for a moment the Prince was off his guard,
Hector flew at him and both went down together. For a brief second
the Highlander's dirk flashed and gleamed in the moon's rays, and then
it descended and was sheathed in Haco's body.
The unfortunate Prince gave vent to a gurgling gasp, his body
quivered ; then all was still. Hector drew his weapon from the woxmd,
and wiped it on his plaid. Then he rose to his feet and listened. Not a
sound was to be heard save the wash of the waters, and the sighing of the
wind in the trees. The Prince was motionless, as motionless as the rocky
boulders that were strewn around. The Highlander spurned the body
with his foot, and then with a grunt of satisfaction he walked hastily
away, and was lost in the darkness of the night.
(To be Continued.)
A HIGHLAND EXILE'S DEATH.
'Twas in the far Canadian wilds, where Frazer's waters flow,
And foot of man the solitude can scarce be said to know
(Save when, like shadow through the glades, the wary Indian strays
With stealthy step, which snapping twig nor rustling leaf betrays) :
That, as the glow of day began in gloom of eve to melt,
Two hunter forms beside a third in heartfelt sorrow knelt.
All three were clad in backwood guise, in trophies of the chase ;
Each was of rugged, well-knit frame, and weather-beaten face ;
Each showed the spare but sinewy strength begot of woodland toil,
While features hard and piercing eye spoke sons of Scotland's soil
Who long had left the glens o'erhung by proud Ben Aven's crest
To seek a freeman's dwelling 'mid the forests of the West.
Lithsome-limbed and supple-sinewed, shoulder-broad and brisket deep,
Such they were as tyrants banish, but true statesmen love to keep ;
Such as glen and strath and corrie in the glorious mountain land
Hear (or reared, the while I knew it — 'neath the gallant Gordon's hand) ;
Such as changed in hue their tartans, as they stemmed the battle's flood,
With the life-stream of the foeman, and their own blue Highland blood 1
Such they were as women worship, not for features' sake alone,
Not for stalwart form and stately, muscle hard, and bendless bone
(Though for these they stood unequalled), but for fearless heart and true,
Kindly glance, and dauntless bearing, worn beneath the bonnet blue :
Such as ever made the staunchest serried ranks of France to reel,
Nodding plume and waving tartan charging with the Highland steel.
Oh ! ye gallant sons of Albyn ! Oh ! ye clansmen of the North !
Cursed the memory of the traitors who sent you from Scotland forth;
Thrice accursed short sighted statesmen who could give to alien men
Power to drive you from your dwellings in each hero-nursing glen !
Had you stayed the foe might threaten, diplomats succeed or fail —
Britain still could count on Scotland's " Clann nan Gaidheal 'nguaillibh cheil\"
Now, alas ! where look we for them ? Almest vainly in the land
Where they mustered at the beckon of Jane Maxwell's lily hand 1*
* The Duchess of Gordon, who raised the 92d Regiment,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 55
If we ask for Highland soldiers, nought but memories give reply !
Why should this be ? Ah ! let every mountain echo answer " Why ? "
Memories only ! God we thank thee that such memories yet remain
Treasured in our Nation's annals, should they never live again !
Better heritage I deem it than a Howard's titled blood, •
To be kindred to those heroes slumb'ring 'neath the foreign sod !
Better te be named Macgregor than Plantagenet or Guelph !
Nobler patriarchal Cluny, than the tawdry Prince of Pelf 1
Leveson-Gower ! shout thy slogan ! scatter golden bribes abroad
Through the straths where gallant clansmen once in many a band abode !
Whence at slightest note of danger to our Highland land and thee
Claymores would have flashed in thousands 'gainst the common enemy !
Leveson-Gower, read the lesson largely writ in many a glen —
Desert straths with deer for tenants, and a lack of Highland men !
Slouching keepers found in plenty — somewhat skilled indeed in killing, —
But the Cockney's tip is relished better than Victoria's shilling !
Live a father to thy people ! love them better than thyself !
Surely thou of all men living may'st make sacrifice of pelf.
What to thee a banker's balance if it cost thee love of men !
Fill thy straths with Highland manhood, people thickly every glen !
So thy name shall live immortal, writ in Love's unfading lines
On the page of Scotland's story— ever green as Scotland's pines.
Fading as the sunlight faded, Donald's life-light waned apace :
Death's grey shadow fell (yet softly) on his ruddy manhood's face !
Thus he spoke (the words— O read them, as he spoke, with bated breath —
For a hardly-broken silence best befits thy presence, Death 1
Only ear of love can gather murmured words from panting breast
Soon to hush in that long silence which God calls his promised rest !)
" Hector 1 thou wert ever strongest of us three that left our home,
Far from bonnie Scotland's heather, in a foreign land to roam ;
Therefore, carry home my message — nay, now weep not, be a man !
Loving hearts await its hearing in our home in fair Stratha'an !
Tell my mother that she tarries for my coming home again,
In yon dear ben-sheltered clachan where we parted, all in vain :
Hector's smile will greet her welcome, Evan's coming make her glad,
But, though Donald be not with them, she must not be therefore sad.
Tell her that no open foeman made her boy disgrace his name ;
Tell her lurking treason's weapon may bring death but never shame !
Tell her that I died in honour, and in peace with God and man
(Here he lisped his childhood's prayer : —sunset oft resembles dawn !)
Tell her to be kind to Maggie — Maggie Gordon of the Dee, —
Whose fair face (God so has willed it) I shall never live to see 1
Bear my blessing to the maiden, had I lived, I would have wed,
But a plighted troth must never bind the living to the dead !
Tell dear Maggie that her tokens lie with me where I repose,
Death's strong hand that reft my life, could not dissever ma from those !
Tell the minister I parted, strong in faith on Him I love,
Christ, whose mercy he encouraged my young heart to seek and prove.
He'll be pleased, I know : his ceunsels often guided me in youth.
Now I look to meet him yonder, where abides the God of Truth :
Now the Master will receive me dying, for He died for me.
Kiss me, brothers 1 — Now 'tis daybreak, daybreak of Eternity.
Lay me 'neath the oak-trees' shadow, though they grow here in the West,
They recal the birk-trees" murmur in Stratnaven:" — then came rest.
A. MACGREGOB, EOSE.
NOTE. — Every one who loves the Highlands and Highlanrlers will rejoice to know
that His Grace the Duke of Sutherland is adopting the course indicated as the true and
worthy one in the above Hues (which were written some time ago), and that he is show-
ing a noble example to all Highland chiefs, la a few years there will be no lack of
ready aoldiers in Sutherland.— A. M. B,
56 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
MAEY MORRISON.
MANY years since, there lived on a small farm at the foot of the famous
Coolin Hills, a middle-aged man, Donald Morrison. His land not
being well adapted for growing corn, he devoted his attention to the rear-
ing and breeding of cattle. Being exceedingly prudent, careful, and
of inexpensive habits, he was looked upon by his poorer neighbours as
a rich man. He married somewhat late in life, a middle-aged woman,
who, like himself, had saved some little money. They had only one
child, a daughter, Mary, who grew up a beautiful, sweet-tempered
girl, the very reverse to her parents in disposition. She was as frank and
open-handed as they were reserved and pemirious. Donald, though
totally uneducated himself, was shrewd enough to see the benefits of
having his daughter well taught — in fact the old man's one ambition was
to see his child well married, and " living like a lady," as he expressed
it. Accordingly, he spared no expense in giving her the best education
the district afforded. At the time of our story tea was only lately intro-
duced into the Highlands, and was only taken as a luxury even by
the higher classes. The art of making and serving out tea to company
was therefore looked upon as an essential part of a young lady's education,
and a sure sign of culture and good breeding. Donald, anxious that his
daughter should possess this new accomplishment, went to Broadford and
waited upon the factor's wife, who was an English lady, and, of course, well
versed in this as well as other ladylike qualities, and begged her, as a great
favour, to take Mary under her charge for a few weeks, and initiate her
into the mystery of tea-making, he to supply tea and sugar for the pur-
pose. The lady kindly consented, and after a short stay in the factor's
house Mary returned home, much improved by her intercourse with the
English lady. Donald was so pleased that he laid in a stock of the then
expensive article, and invited his friends at stated intervals to partake of
the new beverage, and the old man felt well repaid while watching the
grace and ladylike ease with which his daughter did the honours of the
tea table. To give the finishing polish Donald determined upon sending
Mary to a boarding school at Oban, kept by a maiden lady of the name
of Curry. Here Mary soon became a favourite with teachers and pupils,
and grew into a most beautiful and accomplished young woman. She
had been in Oban about eighteen months when the following occurrence
which influenced her whole after life took place : —
One fine afternoon she and a few of the other eldest pupils were
allowed to go for a walk to the sea side, near the ruins of Dunolly
Castle. While amusing themselves about the old walls they came upon
a quiet secluded little creek, with a clean pebbly beach, quite the place to
invite a plunge in the clear sea below. No sooner did one suggest
this than all agreed. The bottom a few feet out was full of treacherous
deep holes. Two of the girls were soon in. One of them more daring
than her companion went too far, at once lost her footing, and sank. The
other screamed, and drew Mary's attention to them. Half-dressed as she
was she jumped in to save the drowning girl, who grasped her so tightly
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 57
that she was unable to help her or save her own life. They both sank
apparently to rise no more. At that moment a shout was heard from
the top of the bank above them. The next moment a young man rushed
and dived into the spot where he saw the girls sink, and in a few mo-
ments had them on shore, where he used every means to restore animation.
He soon had the satisfaction of seeing his efforts crowned with success,
and immediately sent some of the girls to Oban for aid, while he, with
the help of the others, continued to attend to the sufferers. Eubbing and
drying Mary's head and face, she slowly opened her eyes, surveyed him
from head to foot, and, observing that he was wet all over, she compre-
hended the situation. She gazed into his face with such a look of heart-
felt thanks — a look into which her whole soul seemed to be concentrated.
It reached and penetrated into the young man's heart, and left an im-
pression there that years could not efface. Miss Curry was soon on the
scene with a conveyance. She acknowledged the bravery of the young
man, and invited him to call at her house next day, that she might in a
more formal manner thank him for saving the lives of her pupils. He
did so, and found Mary recovered sufficiently to meet him, while the other
girl was not so well, although out of danger. In course of conversation he
informed them that his name was Robert Grahame, and that he was mate of
a schooner belonging to Greenock, which had put into the bay the day
before to repair some slight damage she received on a sunken rock
coming through the sound of Mull, and he fortunately happened to be
strolling near the ruins at the time the accident took place. While taking
leave of them he asked permission to call again to enquire for the young
ladies he had been the means of saving, should he happen to be that way.
Miss Curry, as he thought rather dryly, gave her consent. Looking into
Mary's face at parting, her piercing glance sent another thrill to his heart.
If he had known and understood the lines written by a young Skyeman
in a Gaelic song to his Lowland sweetheart, who had no Gaelic, while he
had but a scanty knowledge of English, the words might well express hia
feelings: —
Gu ro raise an toiseach narach,
3' gun a Ghailig aic ach gann
Ach bha canain aig a suilean
A thnbhairt riuui gu'n dull a chall.
Young Grahame had served his time on board one of the ships belong-
ing to Pollock & Gilmour, a firm which had a number of ships employed
in the timber trade between Greenock and North America. From the
first day he went to sea he was noted for his attention to duty and
obedience to authority. He always carried with him a few useful and
practical books, in the study of which he generally spent his leisure hours
when most of his shipmates wasted their health and money in folly on
shore. By his steady habits and intelligence he was early promoted to
the post of first mate of the vessel he still sailed in. Grahame was now
about twenty-three years of age — the only child and sole support of a
widowed mother. After his visit to Oban Mary was never out of his mind.
He was fully convinced that she was the daughter of some powerful High-
land chief far above his position in life. He knew and felt that he sincerely
loved her, and, like a plucky tar as he was, he thus reasoned with him-
58 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
self — " She is too pure aiid noble ever to be brought down to iny level, I
must then raise myself up to hers. She is too young to marry for a few
years yet, aiid for her sake I will forthwith set about the elevating process,
even should I never see her again. I shall be proud of any effort I may
attempt worthy of her exalted mind and position." The impression left
on his heart by her last look was doubtless a powerful incentive to his
noble resolution. He at once so arranged, with his mother's consent,
that instead of going to sea that winter he should place himself under a
master who kept classes to teach navigation to young seamen, and prepare
them to take charge of foreign-going ships. Such was Grahame's diligence
that at the end of the session he was considered superior to many who
already had command. In the spring of the year his late owner, Coun-
cillor Maccallum, of Greenock, gave him command of a handy barque,
which was then loading for New York. On his return, in due course,
his owner was so well pleased with his conduct, both as a seaman and his
aptness for transacting business, that he presented him with a valuable
gold watch and appendages, and promoted him to the command of a larger
vessel, a new full -rigged ship, called the Glencairn, as fine a ship as the
port could boast of, and one which many older and more experienced
captains would be proud to command. Grahame had now made up his
mind to visit Oban and see Mary privately, for he longed to inform her
of his new and improved prospects. For this purpose he asked and
obtained leave for a few days, while the ship was being got ready for sea.
Arriving at Oban, to his great disappointment, he found that Mary had
gone home a few weeks before. Miss Curry was cold and distant, and
refused him Mary's address. He returned and began his prepara-
tions to sail, and getting the Glencairn out to the Tail-of-the-Bank. In
a couple of days he weighed anchor, a fresh breeze blew, but in a few
hours a dead calm succeeded. The tide set in strongly from the south.
At night-fall a hazy darkness settled upon the sea. Captain Grahame
became apprehensive. They were not far enough south to clear the
Island of lona and the back of Mull. His fears proved only too well
founded, the noble ship grazed on a sunken rock, but, fortunately, the
sea being calm, she sustained but little damage. The men living on the
coast, seeing the ship in danger, came out in their boats to aid him, and
they succeeded in getting her off. Grahame, wishing to ascertain the
extent of damage done before proceeding further on his voyage, with the
aid of the natives, got her round to Tobermory harbour. Here he found,
on examination, that the damage consisted of the tearing and stripping
off some sheathing which his own carpenters could repair in a day or
two. In the evening Grahame walked to the north of the village to
obtain a view of the surrounding scene. Eetuming to the village, Avhen
about half way back, he observed a figure walking on slowly and pensively
before him. lie instantly stood still and looked intently at the object.
What was it that should have set his heart abeating so fast ? There,
undoubtedly, was the never-to-be-forgotten form of Mary so deeply en-
graved upon his heart. He walked quicker, half doubting the instincts
of his anxious heart. The figure before him, hearing the sounds of foot-
steps behind, half turned round as if for the purpose of stepping aside.
Seeing him. she involuntary stood still where she was, grasping at the side
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 59
of the bank to keep her from falling. Poor girl, she had been thinking
of him and wondering where he might be at that very moment. Grahame
rushed forward, clasped his fainting Mary in his strong arms, and carried
her to a green grassy spot, a little off the path they had been walking on,
laid her gently down against a heather-covered bank, his arm supporting
her shoulders. She soon recovered, and Grahame had now the joyful
assurance that every throb of that dear heart of hers beat only for him-
self. He gently lifted her head to enquire as to what fortunate circum-
stance he owed the happiness of so unexpectedly meeting her there. Her
only answer was to cling to him closer, as if afraid some evil destiny
would again separate them. He pressed her the closer to him, and
whispered his great love in her ear, to which she responded by nestling
the more confidingly in his bosom. He again asked what had brought
her to Tobermory. Pure, young, and inexperienced — now that the first
breach was made in the natural barrier of her maidenly reserve — she told
him the simple truth, substantially as follows : — " A young gentleman
farmer belonging to Lorn, a distant relative of Miss Curry's, paid them a
visit at Oban. He was seemingly smitten by her charms, took Miss Curry
into his confidence, and besought her influence in his favour with her
young pupil. When her teacher spoke to Mary about this young gentle-
man, she was astonished to find that she felt no interest whatever in his
professions of love for her. Miss Curry enlarged on his position and
means, urging the wisdom and prudence of accepting him as her husband
should he make the offer. Mary would not give her hand without her
heart, and her heart was already given to her sailor lad. Her teacher had
suspected as much, but never dreamed that a sentimental and romantic
notion of that kind could weigh a feather's weight in the scale, when a
well-known wealthy young man was put in the other. Mary's persistence
in refusing the young farmer as her lover turned her teacher's usual kind-
ness into something akin to contempt for her stupidity. The girl's posi-
tion became anything but comfortable. She at last told Miss Curry that
she meant to go home. Miss Curry wrote to Mary's father, giving the
history of her refusal of a match, which many young women of the best
families would be proud to accept. She also hinted the apparent reason
of the refusal. On Mary's arrival at home both father and mother made
her more miserable than before. Still, she stood firm in her resolve. It
was, however, very hard on such a mind as her's, who, from infancy, had
been noted for her deference to the wishes of her parents. To stand
proof against their judgment now grieved her much. She dreaded the
idea of the possibility of giving way to them on a matter so important to
her future happiness. She regretted coming home, and wished for a
situation of some kind suited to her acquirements, and be set free from
the reproaches continually dinned into her ears. As if in response to her
wishes word came from the factor's wife at Broadford that a lady in
Tobermory wanted a young person as governess for her two daughters.
Mary applied for the situation, and in due course received an answer offer-
ing the place, and wishing her to enter on her duties as soon as possible."
Grahame, on learning this, became alarmed lest in his absence she
might be prevailed upon to obey her parents and friends. If he could
only get her to consent to their being married now and keep her situation
60 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
till his return, he would then see that no one would have it in his power
to annoy her as his wife. So he urged her to become his wife before he
left, and thus put it out of the power of any one to compel her to marry
another.
Mary did not know what to say. She felt she had an eloquent advo-
cate within her own bosom to plead her lover's cause, yet she was not
totally blind to the questionable prudence of the step urged upon her.
She would willingly entrust herself to his keeping, and bear any hardship
for his sake, but she knew her parents would not consent, even if there
was time to consult them. Besides, if they got married where they were
it could not be long kept a secret, and would only result in more trouble.
This suggested the idea of Gretna Green to Grahame. He told her that
he expected to be home in four or five months at the longest, and if they
went to a distance no one would know anything about it. So well did
he plead his cause that before they reached the town she had given her
consent. She knew nothing of Gretna Green or of its famous marriages.
All she knew about marriage was, that it was usually done in the parents'
house in Skye or at the manse, by the parish minister. It was arranged
that she was to meet him next forenoon, at a point a few miles south of the
town, where he would have a boat ready to take her to the mainland.
True to her promise, she was at the place appointed in good time, where
she was received by her lover. They immediately set off, and so favour-
able was the wind, that early next morning they landed at Troon in
Ayrshire, from which town they started in a hired chaise for Gretna
Green. The boatmen were to await their return. Arriving at Spring-
field, near Gretna, they were soon married, and re-entering their convey-
ance made all haste back. To their great annoyance a violent gale, ac-
companied by heavy rain, sprung up during the night. It was well on
in the morning before they arrived at Troon, and the boatmen
refused to venture out to sea with an open boat in such weather. There
was nothing for the young couple but to make themselves as comfortable
as possible during their forced stay in the place. They decided upon
going to the best inn, and the boatmen made themselves happy
with the aid of refreshments provided by Grahame. Towards evening of
the next day the wind lowered sufficiently to induce the men to try it.
Though still rather high it was favourable, and they sailed,
running at great speed. Arriving at Mull, Captain Grahame found the
Glencairn ready for sea, his chief mate having pushed on the repairs in
his absence. The young husband at the next interview with his wife,
noticing that she took particular interest in an antique seal attached to
his watch, undid and gave it to her, as a keepsake until his return,
along with a sum of money, which she was very unwilling to take, but
he insisted, saying, that if she did not need it he would take it back
when he returned. He promised to write to her at her present address
when he arrived out, she, at the same time, promising to keep their
marriage strictly secret until he returned and took her home as his
wedded wife. The ship sailed next morning with a favourable fresh
breeze, which soon carried her out to the open sea.
The young wife had to smother her feelings in the presence
of others as best she could; thoughts of the step she had taken
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 61
preyed on her mind, not that she regretted connecting her destiny
with the man of her choice, but the dread of it oozing out before
the return of her husband. Thus a couple of months wore away \
every blast of wind she heard made her so nervous that the people of the
house noticed it. Her health had given way so much that the
lady advised her to go home for a few weeks, and to return when she got
stronger. Much against her inclination she went. When her parents
saw her emaciated and altered condition, so much did disappointed am-
bition rankle in their breasts that it killed much of the natural smypathy
and tenderness usually existing in the bosoms of most mothers for their
ailing and suffering offspring. If her mother had shown that sympathy
and motherly tenderness which the poor child so earnestly desired and so
much needed, it is more than probable she would have taken her into her
confidence at once, but when she found that every effort she made to enlist
the maternal feelings in her favour, she was repelled by the too common
and senseless expression of " You'r well served for your folly," her grief
and trouble fell back with double force upon her already over burdened
heart. Let the worldly and strong-minded mother beware she does not drive
a sensitive and virtuous child to ruin by such unnatural conduct, and
although the rigidly prudent may not approve of Mary's actions, she
was blessed with a strong and abiding principle that carried her, pure and
unspotted, through all her difficulties to the end. She occasionally went
out in the gloaming for fresh air ; her only companion in these walks being
the seal her husband had given her, and often, when too dark to see it,
she would kiss it for him. At length her mother began to suspect some-
thing particular was the matter, and Mary, when taxed about it, did not
deny that she was soon to become a mother. When questioned as to the
paternity of the child she invariably replied that he was her husband, but
who or what he was she would not upon any account disclose. In strict
faithfulness to her promise she, perhaps foolishly, withheld all further
information. Her old and now distracted father upbraided her for
the disgrace brought upon him by bringing a nameless child into the
world. He had the mortification of seeing all his fine castles in the
air tumbling down about his ears. If Mary's position was uncomfortable
before it now became unbearable. That she was insensible to the awk-
wardness of her situation herself no one who knew her could suppose. She
could not help it now. She had to bear it as best she could. I have no
intention, nor indeed can I describe the tortures her sensitive heart suffered.
The only gleam of sunshine which now and again illumed the darkness of
her despair was the estimation in which she held the worth and merits of
her husband ; her soul would lise at times above her sufferings with the con-
soling assurance that he was worth all that trouble and more, and that he
would dispel all the darkness when he came home. Time came and went
that a letter should reach her. Neighbouring gossips began to whisper
suspicious hints about old Donald's grand lady of a daughter, which,
when they reached his ears, made him forget any remnant of paternal
feeling he yet felt for her. She now avoided meeting him whenever she
could, and only wished she was away among strangers rather than bear
the looks and cruel taunts of her parents.
At this time a boat came from Fort- William with timber for a
62 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
house that was "being huilt in the place. Mary watched the men from
her window as they unloaded the cargo. One evening after the craft
was taken out to anchor right opposite the house, she observed two of
the men coming ashore in their small boat for water, and while filling
their casks at the well she slipped down to where they were. She found
out that they were to start for home about two in the morning. She
offered them a pound note for her passage. They agreed to send the small
boat for her before they sailed. Mary quietly employed the intervening
hours in packing up her clothing, with which, and all her money, she
went down to meet the men at the appointed hour. They soon had her
on board and away, hours before any one was astir in her father's house.
On the morning of the second day they passed through the Sound of
Mull, and rounding the Island of Lismore Mary overheard some of the
crew mentioning old Dunolly Castle. She asked if they were near it,
and one of them pointing in its direction, the sight of it, ever so dim,
awakened thoughts and memories in her mind deeply interesting to
her. She soon, however, lost sight of its outlines as the little vessel
stretched along in the direction of Ballachulish and the historic Glencoe.
Towards evening they landed at Fort- William. Mary went to one of the
inns for the night, intending in the morning to seek out some quiet
retreated village where she might rest for a week or two, and think over
what she was to do. Before retiring to rest she understood there was a
man at the inn who had driven with a party that day from Fort- Augustus
and was going back the next day empty. Mary sought him out, and
arranged for a sum of money to be carried in the conveyance to that
place. In early morning they started. Arriving near the little village
the chaise stopped. Mary had to alight and carry her luggage,
the driver knowing that if he drove her to the inn he would
have to give up to his employer the fare she paid him. Stiff and
fatigued with the long drive, Mary walked along to the scattered
houses. Passing some she observed standing at the door of a neat
cottage, a kindly-faced, elderly, lady-like woman ; she went up to her
and asked if she could direct her to a respectable quiet family where she
could have a room for a few weeks, the rent for which she was prepared
to pay in advance if the place suited. The good lady looked earnestly
and feelingly in Mary's face, observing she was weak and wearied,
scarcely able with her burden to stand where she was. She kindly asked
the stranger to step in and rest herself. The lady was a Mrs Cameron,
the widow of an officer of the 93d Highlanders who had been killed in
battle, and, though a native of the North of England, she made choice of
the country of her late husband to live in with her family, all of whom
were now, except two daughters, grown up to womanhood, who kept
their mother in comparative comfort by their industry as dressmakers,
aided by a small allowance from Government on account of her husband's
services. Mary's heart warmed to the kind and motherly woman ; her
looks of sympathy and pity had such an effect upon her that she told her
some of her history, and the cause of her being a wanderer from her own
home as she saw her, while her artless candour and pleading looks
at once won the heart of the noble-minded woman. She felt it would be
a crime to send the young creature away unprotected and inexperienced, as
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 63
she evidently was, to more misery among strangers who might not understand
her case, nor care what became of her. The lady then went in where
her daughters were at work, told them of the stranger and her position,
and that, if they agreed, she meant to give her a room for a few
weeks. They at once consented, and when Mrs Cameron told Mary she
might stay with them her heart filled, she rose from her seat, and flinging
her arms round the neck of the compassionate lady, as if she were her
mother, she sobbed out her almost silent thanks. She was introduced to
the daughters, and, after getting some refreshment, was chatting away
with them as if they were old friends. She was not long there when the
kindness and attention she received from this loving family in a great
measure renewed her strength of mind and body, and, being a good and
ready hand at the needle, she very soon made herself useful and aided
them with their work. In about three months after her coming there
she was delivered of a fine healthy boy, who was called Robert, after his
father. Naturally her anxiety about her husband was increased by the
birth of her child. She got one of the sisters to write to Greenock
enquiring if any word had been received of the Glencairn, to which a
reply came that all hope of the vessel's safety had been given up.
This was hard on the young mother, but she made every effort to bear
the distress calmly for the sake of her infant. Her kind friend,
Mrs Cameron, proved a judicious adviser in this crisis, having had ex-
perienced the same heavy bereavement herself.
All this time Mary had not heard from Skye, or how her parents had
acted on her flight becoming known. If ever the consequences of un-
natural harshness and unfeeling conduct recoiled back upon its authors it
was in the case of old Donald Morrison and his wife. After every search
and enquiry were made in vain for their daughter, it was concluded she
had made away with herself. No one imagined that the Fort- William
boat had anything to do with her departure. All the neighbours had
called the old couple murderers to their faces. The now lonely pair
felt so disgusted with themselves and all around them, that in their old
age they resolved to turn all their eifects into cash and emigrate to
America. In three months time they were on their way to the new
world. They had plenty of means to keep them in comfort there or at
home — more indeed than hundreds who left Skye before and since, would
consider a fortune to start the world afresh with. But in their case, sincere
worshipers of Mammon as they were, their gold gave them no happiness.
There was a worm gnawing at their hearts that would not die while life
and memory lasted. Their daughter knew nothing of these movements,
she needed no addition to her grief. When Mary got strong she devoted
all the time she could spare from the cares of her infant to helping her
young friends in their labours when pressed for time. Both mother and
daughters became so fond of her and her child that they would not
willingly part with her. The eldest sister had occasion to visit Inverness.
She there met a lady from Skye who told her the melancholy fate of a
young woman she knew, who was supposed to have committed suicide,
and that her parents had gone to Canada. Miss Cameron, although she
suspected who the young person was, did not say she knew anything of
her whereabouts. On her return home she told Mary what she heard,
64 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
which made her cling the more earnestly to her boy as the only one now
left of her kin, and so far as the health of her child and the kind-
ness of her friends could make her happy, she was so. But the void in
her affectionate heart, caused by the loss of her husband, nothing
on earth could fill. At times, when tracing the lineaments of the
father's face in that of his child, she would burst out into tears about the
cruelty of the fate that sundered them ; then she would check herself for
murmuring against the over-ruling of a wise though hidden Providence.
She remained at Fort- Augustus for three years, when Mrs Cameron told
her that her eldest daughter was going to get married, and that her hus-
band was going to stay with them in the house, and would require the
room she occupied. This was a fresh blow to poor Mary, who looked up
to and loved her friend more than a mother. It was grievous to them
all to part ; the daughters learned to love her as a sister. Mrs Cameron,
with her usual motherly forethought, had previously written to a lady of
her acquaintance residing in Badenoch, an officer's widow like herself,
knowing she wanted an educated person as attendant and companion,
recommending a young friend of her's. The lady agreed to engage Mary
on Mrs Cameron's testimonials of fitness and character. At the same
time her friend found a person to take charge of the boy, where his mother
could see him at stated times. Mary parted with her child and her
friends with a heavy heart, and entered upon her new duties, which she
found on a few weeks experience to be all she could wish for. She soon
became a favourite with the lady, having found her not only attentive
and faithful, but much superior in culture and acquirements to most
persons aspiring to such a position as Mary now held in the family. She
was there about seven months, when the lady's son, an officer in the
Guards, came home on leave of absence. Mary could not avoid coming
in contact with him at times. She was grieved to notice that he paid her
rather too free and particular attention. She took no notice of it at first,
but seeing her coldness had no deterring effect upon him, she complained
to his mother about it, which occasioned a stormy quarrel between mother
and son. The result was that Mary at once gave up her place, went for her
boy, and with him made her way to Inverness, from there took pas-
sage in a sloop to Leith, and from there made her way to Glasgow, where
she took lodgings, meantime looking out for a situation. For three
months she could not hear of a place to suit her. This enforced
idleness drained away most of the money she brought with her.
She had heard of a place as upper nurse in a family in Ayrshire. She
went there and was engaged. The wages were but small, but she took
it in the hopes that something better would soon turn up. She had to
put her boy out to board again with a woman in Saltcoats, a little
town on the sea side. She was but a month or so in the place when her
boy took the measles, which turned out to be a severe case. She saw
him as often as she could, and spent nearly all the little means she had
left on medical attendance and medicine. The lady had been informed of
the motive of her frequent visits to Saltcoats, and the nature of the child's
disease, and discharged poor Mary from her situation for fear she might
carry the infection to her own children.
(To be Continued.}
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 65
AN SEILLEAN AGUS A' CHUILEAG.
o
Air maduinn chiuin 's a' cheiteau thlath,
Gach doir' us crann us gleann fo bhlath,
Bha 'n smeorach agus eoin nan speur,
Le 'n luinneig bhinn ac' air gach ge"ig,
Na laoigh 's na h-uain a' leuui le f6nn,
A' ruagail mu gach preas us torn,
Us braon de'n driuchd air bharr gacli fuoirn',
A' dealradh air an cinn mar 5r.
Bha cuileag sgiathach fnaoin gun cheill,
'Ga cluiche fein ri blaths na grein',
I 'null 'sa nail, i sios us suas,
Gun dragh, gun churain, no gun ghruaim.
Bha' seillean stiallach, ciallach, c6ir,
A' falbh a chomhachadh a 16 in,
Ghlaodh a' chuileag " ciod e 'n sgeula?"
'S labhair iad mar so ri 'ch&le.
A' CHUILEAG.
" Nach ann ort 'tha 'n drip an comhnuidh?
Fuirich tiota learn ag comhradh,
Ciod an toirbh' 'tha dhuit 's an t-saoghal,
'Ga do mharbbedh fein le saothair?
Bho mhoch gu dubh, bho bheinn gu traigh,
Cha 'n fhag thu cluaran, dris, no r6s,
Nach toir thu greiseag air an deoth'l."
" Seall thu mis' an so cho e^bhinn,
'Danns' an gathan caoin na gr^ine ;
'S cha 'n 'eil mi uair no trath gun 16n,
Ged nach 'eil mil agam an st6r ;
Ma thig am fuachd, 's an geamhradh gann,
Cha dean mi ullachadh roimh 'n am,
Thigeadh uair us am na h-eiginn,
Cha ghabh mi dragh dheth gus an fheudar."
AN SEILLEAN.
" A chreutair amaidich gun gh6,
Gur beag' tha' ghliocas 'n a do ghlolr ;
Ged' tha thu 'n diugh 's do chupan Ian,
Cha mhair an saibhreas sin ach gearr :
Thig doinionn shearbh us geamhradh garbh,
A bheir do sholasan air falbh,
Cha 'n fhaigh thu blaths air feadh nan gleann,
Cha tog a' ghrian ach farm a ceann."
66 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
" Gach r6s' tlia' sgeadaclmdh nam bruach,
Rheir reodhtachd fhu;ii ;iii- falbh an gruag ;
Cha chluinn thu smcoi.uui air gach geig,
Cha 'n fhaic thu uain a' ruith 's a' leu in ;
Bidh mis' an sin gu seasgair blath,
'S a' bhothan bheag a dhealbli mo lamh ;
Cha bhi mi 'n taing aon neach fo'n ghrcin
A' sealbhachadh mo shaoithreach fein."
" Bidh tns an sin 'n a d' dheoiridh truagh,
A' dol mu'n cuairt gun dreach gun tuar,
'S tu leis a ghort a' faotainn bhais,
An tuill 's an uinneagan an sas,
Thu air an dearie anns gach ait',
Gun mhath dhuit fein, gun tlachd do chach,
Sin an doigh a chleachd do shinnsir,
'S doigh nach dean an sliochd a dhiobradh."
A' CHUILEAG.
" Bu trie do shaothair fe"in gun bhuaidh,
Ged' tha thu '11 diugh a' deanamh uaill,
A'm bothan beag a dhealbh do lamh,
'S e air a leagadh sios gu lar ;
A' mhil, a choisinn thu gu cruaidh
A' falbh a' dranndan mu gach bruaich,
Aig each a' stigh gu h-ait 'g a h-ol,
Is tusa' muigh gun tigh, gun Ion."
" Ach 's lionmhor iad 'tha dheth do sheers',
'Tha 'deanamh uaill a meud an stoir,
Bho 'n saothair ghoirt cha ghabh iad tamh,
A' carnadh suas gun f hios co dha ;
Bu trie do shinnsir fein ri fuaim,
An cuid 's an ionnihas 'g a thoirt uath ;
Ei rusgadh ghath 's a tarruinn lann,
'S an tigh 'g a leagadh sios mu'n ceann."
" Ach mheas mi f^in — 's e sin mo ghnaths —
Na 'm faighinn idir cosg an traith,
Gu 'm b' fhearr dhomh subhachas us ceol,
An uine^bheag a bhios mi beo,
No ged a gheibhinn saibhlean Ian,
Gun f hois gun slochaint air an sgath,
Oir 's e mo dhochas us mo chreud,
Gu'm faigh gach latha Ion da fein."
AN SEILLEAN.
" Ah ! 's duillich learn nach tusa h-aon
'Tha 'beathachadh air plaosgan faoin,
'Tha 'gabhail fasgaidh fo gach sgleo,
Le beatha dhiomhanaich mar cheo,
THE CELTIC MAGAZIKE. 67
An uin' a' ruitli gun niluith gun fheum,
Cha 'n fhag iad cliu no ainm 'n an deign,
'S cha d' thug iad geill do'n duine ghlic
A dhearbh nach deanair gniomh fo 'n lie."
" Tha mise mar a bha thu 'g radh,
Bho mhocli gu dubh, bho bheinn gu traigh,
Ach 's iomadh ros a ni mi 'dheoth'l
Bho 'm bheil a' mhil an deigh a h-ol ;
Gidheadh cha 'n fhas mo mhisneach fann,
A' saothrachaclh bho am gu am,
Oir chreid mi riamh — 's i sin an f hirinn —
Gu 'n tig toradh math a dlchioll."
" Cha robh mi riamh 'n am' throm air each
Cha mho a bhraid 110 ghoid mo lamh,
'S cha bhi mo Ion ri m' bheo an e"is,
Ma dh' f hagar agam mo chuid f6in,
Ach ma thig namhaid orm gu teann,
Ma spuiuneas e mi fein 's'mo chlann,
Cha d' chuir e comhdach riamh ruu cheann,
Am fear nach tamiuinn ris mo lann."
" Is beag no mor g'am bi ar neart,
Ma ni sinn leis an ni 'tha ceart,
Ar buadhan biodh iad lag no treun,
Ma chuireas sinn iad sin gu feum,
Cha tuig thu mar a dh' f hasas earn,
Le clach a thilgeadh ann a ghnath,
'S e braonaibh faoin' a lion an cuan,
Is duslach min gach beinn mu 'n cuairt."
" Diiisg suas ma ta us tog ort greann,
Bi saothreach f had 's a gheibh thu 'n t-am ;
Tha samhradh caomh a' falbh 'n a dheann,
Tha 'n geamhradh gnu a' tarruinn teann,
Ma mheallar thu an so le breig,
Bi cinnteach 'n uair a thig an t-eug,
Gu 'm bi do chliu 's do dhuais da re*ir
Bho 'n Ti 'thug beatha do gach ere."
Thug iad greis mar sin air comhradh,
Ged nach robh iad trie a' cordadh,
'S mar a thachair dhuinn gu leir,
Bha iad car dion 'n am barail fe'in ;
Ach le durachd geanail spe"iseil,
Ghabh iad latha math de cheile,
Dh' f halbh an seillean coir us srann aig',
'S theann a' chuileag fhaoin ri dannsa.
N. MACLEOID,
68 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
THE GAELIC NAMES OF TEEES, SHEUBS, PLANTS, &c.*
BY CHARLES FERGUSSON.
THE subject of the Gaelic names of the trees and plants that grow around
us is a very important and interesting one, but unfortunately, I must say,
a very much neglected one by the present race of Highlanders. Our
ancestors had a Gaelic name, not only for all the trees and plants that
grew in their own country, but also for many foreign plants. Yet there
are very few of the present generation who know anything at all about
those Gaelic names, except perhaps a few of the very common ones, such
as Darach, Beithe, Giuthas, Galltuinn.
The principal reason for this is, that the Highlanders of the present
day have not to pay so much attention to, or depend so much upon, the
plants of their own country as their ancestors did who depended almost
entirely on their own vegetable substances for their medicinal, manufactur-
ing, and other purposes. A great many of those Gaelic names are already
lost, and many more will be so in a few years if some steps are not taken
to preserve them, for though, certainly, we have many of them already in
print, scattered through such works as Alex. Macdonald's (Mac Mhaighstir
Alastair) Vocabulary, Lightfoot's Flora Scotica, the Gaelic Bible, and the
Dictionaries, yet the great majority of the Gaelic names are not in print,
but only preserved amongst the old people, and will soon be forgotten
unless speedily collected. So far as I am aware there is not yet a single
work on this important subject; therefore I have chosen it as the subject
of the following paper, in which I will give the Gaelic name, and a short
account of the various uses to which our ancestors put each, beginning
with a few of our common trees and going down to the smaller plants,
trusting it will awaken an interest in the subject, and be the beginning of
an effort to collect all the Gaelic names possible ere it be too late. In
studying the Gaelic names of plants, even the most careless observer can-
not fail being struck with the fine taste and intimate acquaintance with
the various peculiarities and different properties of plants, displayed by
our ancestors in giving the Gaelic names to plants. This I think is one
of the strongest proofs we have that our ancestors were keen observers of
nature — an advanced and cultivated race — and not the rude savages which
some people delight to represent them. In reading the works of our best
Gaelic bards, from Ossian downwards, we cannot help also being struck
with their acquaintance with the names and various peculiarities of plants.
Without further remarks in the way of introduction, I will proceed
to give an account of some of our Highland trees, shrubs, and plants.
ALDER. — Latin, Alnus Glutinosa ; Gaelic, Fearna. This well-known
tree is a native of the Highlands, where it grows to perfection all over the
country by the side of streams, and in wet marshy places. It seems in
former times to have grown even more abundantly, and that in places
where now not a tree of this or any other kind is to be found. This is
proved by the many names of places derived from this tree, such as Glen
* Read befere Gaelic Society of Inverness,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 69
Fernate — Gltann Fearn-aite — in A thole; Fearnan in Breadalbane; Fearn
iu Boss-shire ; Fernaig in Lochalsh, &c. In a suitable situation the alder
will grow to a great size. There is mention made in the account of the
parish of Kenmore, in the " New Statistical Account of Scotland," of an
alder tree growing in the park of Taymouth Castle, the circumference of
which, in 1844, was 12 feet 8 inches. The wood of this tree resembles
mahogany so much that it is generally known as " Scotch Mahogany."
It is very red and rather brittle, but very durable, especially under water.
Lightfoot, the learned author of the " Flora Scotica," mentions that, when
he accompanied Pennant on his famous Tour in 1772, the Highlanders
then used alder very much for making chairs and other articles of furni-
ture, which were very handsome and of the colour of mahogany. He
mentions that it was much used by them for carving into bowls, spoons,
&c,, and also for the very curious use of making heels for women's shoes.
It was once very much used, and in seme parts of the Highlands it is
still commonly used, for dyeing a beautiful black colour. By boiling the bark
or young twigs with copperas it gives a very durable colour, and supplies
the black stripes in home-made tartan. A decoction of the leaves was
counted an excellent remedy for burnings and inflammations, and the fresh
leaves laid upon swellings are said to dissolve them and stay the inflamma-
tion. The old Highlanders used to put fresh alder leaves to the soles of
their feet when they were much fatigued with long journeys or in hot
weather, as they allayed the heat and refreshed them very much. Our
ancestors were sharp enough to discover the curious fact that the alder
wood splits best from the root, whereas all other trees split best from the
top, which gave rise to the old Gaelic saying, " Gach fiodh o na bharr, 's
an fhearna o' na bhun."
APPLE AND CRAB APPLE. — Latin, Pyrus Mains; Gaelic, Ubhal,
Ubhal-fiadhaicli. The crab apple is a native of the Highlands, where it
grows in woods and by river sides, to a height of about twenty feet. Of
course the cultivated apple of gardens and orchards is just an improved
variety of the same, which by ages of care and cultivation has been
brought to its present perfection. The fruit of the crab is small and
very bitter, but its juice is much used for rubbing to sprains, cramps, &c.,
and the bark is used by the Highlanders for dying wool of a light yel-
lowish colour. The apple was cultivated at a very early date in Britain,
as it is often mentioned by our earliest writers. Logan says that from a
passage in Ossian it is .clear that the ancient Highlanders were well
acquainted with the apple. Pliny says that the apple trees of Britain
bore excellent fruit, and Solinus writes that Moray and the north-eastern
part of Scotland abounded with apples in the third century. Buchanan
says that Moray, which, of course, in his day included Inverness-shire,
surpassed all the other parts of Scotland for excellent fruittrees. The monks
paid great attention to the cultivation of the apple, and they always had
gardens and orchards attached to their monasteries, near the ruins of
which some very old apple trees are still found growing and bearing
good crops of fruit, for instance, the old apple tree a few yards north from
Beauly Priory. We read that the monks of lona had very fine orchards
i" the ninth century, but they were destroyed and the trees cut down by
th-1 Norwegian invaders. King David L, about 1140, spent much of his
70 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
spare time in training and grafting fruit trees. It is a very great mistake
indeed that the apple is not cultivated more now in the Highlands, for
from the suitable soil in many places, and also from the great shelter
afforded by the hills and woods, in many of the glens and straths, it would
grow to perfection where at present there is not a single tree. Indeed it
is entirely neglected except in gentlemen's gardens. The present High-
landers have not such a high opinion of the apple as Solomon had — " Mar
chrann-ubhall am measg chrann na coille, is amhuill mo runsa am measg
nan bgauach ; fo sgaile mhainnaich mi, agus shuidh mi sios agus bha a
thoradh milis do m' bhlas" (Song of Solomon ii. 3). Almost all the
Gaelic bards, in singing the praises of their lady-loves, compare them to the
sweet-smelling apple: —
" Bu tu m' ubhall, a's m' ubhlan,
'S bu tu m'ur ros an garadh."
" Iseabail 6g
An 6r-f'huilt bhuidhe —
Do ghruaidh mar rbs
'S do phbg mar ubhal."
" Tha do phog mar ubhlan garaidh,
'S tha do bhraighe mar an nebnan."
The well-known fact that the largest and finest apples always grow on
the young wood at the top of the tree gave rise to the old Gaelic proverb
— " Bithidh 'n t-ubhal is fearr, air a mheangan is airde." The crab apple
is the badge of the Clan Lamond.
APRICOTE. — Latin, Armeniaca Vulgaris ; Gaelic, Apricoc. The apri-
cote is a native of the Levant, but was introduced into Britain in 1548.
This excellent fruit, which was once much grown by the monks, is very
seldom to be found now in the Highlands, though common enough in
gardens in the Lowlands of Scotland. Alexander Macdonald ( Mac
Mhaiglistir Alastair) mentions it in his Gaelic list of fruit trees, and
Logan, in his " Scottish Gael," says that it thrives very well as far north
as Dunrobin. By giving it the shelter of a wall facing the south, it will
thrive and ripen its fruit in most of the low straths of the Highlands.
ASH. — Latin, Fraxinus Excelsior ; Gaelic, Uinnseann. The ash is a
native of the Highlands, where, in a suitable situation, it will grow to a
height of nearly 100 feet. This useful tree, so well-known to everybody,
is noted for its smooth silvery bark when young, and for its graceful fern-
like leaves, which come out late in spring, and are the first to fall in
autumn, and of which horses and sheep are very fond. The ash will
adapt itself to any situation, and will flourish according to the richness of
the soil, and the amount of shelter it receives, wherever it happens to
spring up, from a seed carried by the wind or by birds. "We have it in
the Highlands in every stage — from the stunted bush of a few feet high,
which grows in the cleft of some high rock, or by the side of some bum
high up amongst the hills, to the noble tree of a hundred feet high, which
grows in our straths, and of which I may give the following example from
my native district of Athole. It is described by the Eev. Thomas
Buchanan in his account of the parish of Logierait, in " tho New Statis-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 71
tical Account of Scotland" (1844). He says — "There is a remarkable
ash tree in the innkeeper's garden, near the village of Logierait. It
measures at the ground 53£ feet in circumference ; at three feet from the
ground, 40 feet ; and at eleven feet from the ground, 22 feet. The height
is 60 feet ; but the upper part of the stem appears to have been carried
away. The height is said to have been at one time nearly 90 feet. The
trunk is hollow from the base, and can contain a large party. This
venerable stem is surmounted by a profusion of foliage, which, even at
the advanced age of the tree, attracts the eye at a distance to its uncom-
mon proportions. An old man at the age of 100 is at present in the
habit of taking his seat daily within the hollow formed by its three
surviving sides — no unsuitable companion to the venerable relic." In
the same work, in the accounts of the parishes of Kenmore and Weem,
mention is made of an ash in the park of Taymouth Castle, 18 feet in
circumference, and other two on the lawn at Castle Menzies, 16 feet.
The wood of the ash, which is hard and very tough, was much used by
the old Highlanders for making agricultural implements, handles for axes,
&c. Besides those peaceful uses to which they put the ash, they also
used it for warlike purposes, by making bows of it when yew could not
be had, and also for making handles for their spears and long Lochaber
axes. The Highlanders have many curious old superstitions about the ash,
one of which is also common in some parts or the Lowlands, viz. : — That
the oak and the ash fortell whether it is to be a wet or a dry season, by
whichever of them comes first into leaf — if the ash comes first into leaf,
it is to be a very wet summer ; but very dry if the oak comes first. An-
other curious old superstition is still lingering in some parts of the High-
lands about the virtue of the sap for newly-born ^children, and as Light-
foot mentions it as common in the Highlands and Islands when he
travelled there with Pennant, in 1772, I may give it in his words. He
says : — " In many parts of the Highlands, at the birth of a child, the
nurse or midwife, from what motive I know not, puts the end of a green
stick of ash into the fire, and, while it is burning, receives into a spoon
the sap or juice which oozes out at the other end, and administers this as
the first spoonful of liquors to the new-born babe." Another old High-
land belief is that a decoction of the tender tops or leaves of the ash taken
inwardly, and rubbed outwardly to the wound, is a certain cure for the
bite of an adder or serpent, and that an adder has such an antipathy to
the ash that if it is encompassed with ash leaves and twigs, it will rather
go through fire than through the ash.
" Theid an nathair troimh an teine dhearg,
Mu'n teid i troimh dhuilleach an uinnsinn."
In fact, the adders were supposed to regard the ash amongst the forest
trees as they did the M'lvors among the Highland clans ! Every High-
lander knows the old saying about the M'lvors and the adders —
Latha na Feill'-Bride
Their an nathair anns an torn —
" Cha bhi mise ri Nic-Iomhair
'S cha bhi Nic-Iomhair riurn!
72 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Mhionnaich mise do Chlann lombair
'S mhionnaich Clann lonihair dhomhsa ;
Nach bean mise do Chlann lomhair,
'S nach bean Clann lombair dbombsa ! "
As a proof of the many uses to which the wood of the ash may be put, I
may quote Isaiah, xliv. 14 — " Suidhichidh e crann-uinsinn, agus altruimidh
an t' uisge e. An sinn bithidh e aig duine chum a losgadh ; agus gabhaidh
e dheth, agus garaidh se e fein : seadh cuiridh e teine ris, agus deasaichidh
e aran. Cuid dheth loisgidh e 'san teine, le cuid eile dheth deasaichidh
agus ithidh e feoil ; rostaidh e biadh agus sasuichear e : an sin garaidh
se a fe"in agus their e — Aha rinn mi mo gharadh, dh' aithnich mi an teine.
Agus do 'n chuid eile dheth ni e dia, eadhon dealbh snaidhte dha fein ;
cromaidh e sios dha agus bheir e aoradh dha ; agus ni e urnuigh ris agus
their e — Teasairg mi oir is tu mo dhia." The ash is the badge of the
Clan Menzies.
ASPEN. — Latin, Populus Tremula; Gaelic, Critheann. The aspen,
which grows to a height of about fifty feet, is a native of the Highlands,
where it grows in great abundance all over the country, in most places on
the banks of streams. It is very rapid in the growth, consequently its
wood is not of much value, being very soft, but white and smooth. This
wood was much used by the Highlanders for making pack-saddles, wood
cans, milk pails, &c. The great peculiarity about the aspen, and which
has made it the object of many curious old superstitions, is the ever
trembling motion of its leaves, which gave rise to its Gaelic name,
" Critheann," or " trembling." The cause of this is that leaves which are
round or slightly heart-shaped, have very long slender stalks, so thai they
quiver and shake with every breath of wind, and the leaves being hard
and dry, give a peculiar rustling sound. There is a common belief
among the Highlanders that the Saviour's cross was made of the wood of
the aspen, and that ever since then the leaves of this tree cannot rest, but
are for ever trembling ! In the Bible, wherever we find the poplar men-
tioned in the English, it is always translated Critheann or Crithich in
Gaelic, as in Genesis xxx. 27, and Hosea iv. 13. As the aspen is a
variety of the poplar, it may be correct enough to translate poplar
" critheann," but Alex. Macdonald (Mac Mhaighstir Alastair), gives us
another name for the poplar, Crann Pobhuill.
BAY, OB LAUREL BAY. — Latin, Laxrus noblis ; Gaelic, Laibhreas.
This beautiful evergreen tree, the emblem of victory among the ancients,
is a native of Itiily, but was introduced into Britain in 1561. It would
likely be some time after that, however, before it was much planted in the
Highlands, where it grows and thrives very well now in all the low straths
and glens. Laibhreas is the Gaelic name I have found for it in over a
dozen different books, but in the Bible, where it is only once mentioned
(Psalms xxxvii. 35), it is translated Ur-chraobh-uaine. There are a great
many old superstitions connected with the bay, only one of which I will
give in the words of an old writer — " that neither witch nor devil, thunder
nor lightning, will hurt a man where a bay tree is !" If such be the case
it is truly a valuable tree. The laurel bay is the badge of the Clan Mac-
laren, and from it they take the motto which they bear above their crest
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 73
— "Si se Mac an t' slaurie," meaning that they are the sons of victory,
of which the laurel is the emblem.
BEECH. — Latin, Fagus Sylvatica ; Gaelic, Faidh-Wiile. This tall and
graceful tree needs no description, as it is well-known to everybody. It
is a native of the Highlands, and grows to a height of about eighty feet.
It is a very hardy tree, and grows in the glens all over the Highlands,
where, in favourable situations, it attains an immenee size. Very large
beech trees are found at Dunkeld and in the pass of Killiecrankie, where,
to judge from their size, some of those beeches probably afforded shelter
to many a wounded soldier on the 17th July, 1689, when "Bonnie
Dundee" fought and fell on the field of Eaonruarie. Mention is also
made in the NQW Statistical Account of two beech trees at Castle Menzies,
one 17 and the other 19 feet in circumference, also one at Taymouth
Castle, 22 feet. Of the beech an old writer says : — " The mast or seeds
of this tree will yield a good oil for lamps ; they are a food for mice and
squirrels, and swine are very fond of them, but the fat of those which
feed on them is soft and boils away, unless hardened before they are
killed by other food. The wood is brittle, very fissile, durable under
water, but not in the open air. It is the best of all woods for fuel, and
it is sometimes used for making axes, bowls, sword scabbards," &c. As the
leaves of the beech are very cooling, they were used by the Highlanders as
a poultice, to be applied to any swellings to lessen and allay the heat.
They were also used in some parts when dry for stuffing mattresses instead
of straw, to which they are much superior for that purpose, as they will
continue fresh for many years, and not get musty and hard as straw does.
BLACK BEECH. — Latin, Fagus sylvatica atro-rubens ; Gaelic, Faidh-
Wiile dubh. This sombre and mournful-looking tree is just a variety of
the common beech, and has mostly the same nature, only that it does not
grow quite so tall The black beech is to be found with foliage of every
shade, from a brownish-green to a blood-red, and almost even to jet black
— the two latter forming a very fine contrast to the light green of the
common beech, or the white flowers of the hawthorn or the mountain
ash, and is therefore a very striking object in a landscape. There are
some very large trees of this kind in the Highlands, such as at Guisachan,
in Strathglass, where they have a very rich dark colour.
BIRCH. — Latin, Betula alba; Gaelic, Beithe. I need not say that
the birch is a native of the Highlands, where it is the most common of
all our forest trees, and its graceful habit adds to the beauty of almost
every glen and strath in the land of the Gael. It is still much used in
many ways, but was much more so by the old Highlanders, who turned
it into almost endless uses. The wood was once much used by them for
making arrows for the men and spinning wheels for the women — both
being articles once indispensable in the Highlands, although now things
of the past. The wood is still much used in the Highlands by turners,
as it is the best possible wood for their work, and it is also much used for
making bobbins. As Lightfoot mentions many of the uses to which the
Highlanders put birch, I may give them in his words : — " Various are
the economical uses," he says, " of this tree. The Highlanders xise the bark
to tan their leather and to make ropes. The outer rind, which they call
they sometimes burn instead of candles. The inner bark,
74 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
before the invention of paper, was used to write upon. The wood was
formerly used by the Highlanders for making their arrows, but is now
converted to better purposes, being used by the wheelwrights for ploughs,
carts, and most of the rustic implements ; by the turners for trenchers,
ladles, &c., the knotty excrescences affording a beautiful veined wood ;
and by the cooper for hoops. The leaves are a fodder for sheep and goats,
and are used by the Highlanders for dyeing a yellow colour. The catkins
are a favourite food of small birds, especially the sisken, and the pliant
twigs are well-known to answer the purposes of cleanliness and conectiont
There is yet another use to which this tree is applicable, and which I
will beg leave strongly to recommend to my Highland friends. The
vernal sap is well known to have a saccharine quality capable of making
sugar, and a wholesome diuretic wine. This tree is always at hand, and
the method of making the wine is simple and easy. I shall subjoin the
receipt — ' In the beginning of March when the sap is rising, and before
the leaves shoot out, bore holes in the bodies of the larger trees and put
fossets therein, made of elder sticks with the pith taken out, and then
put any vessels under to receive the liquor. If the tree be large you may
tap it in four or five places at a time without hurting it, and thus from
several trees you may gain several gallons of juice in a day. If you have
not enough in one day bottle up close what you have till you get a suffi-
cient quantity for your purpose, but the sooner it is used the better.
Boil the sap as long as any scum rises, skimming it all the time. To
every gallon of liquor put four pounds of sugar, and boil it afterwards
half-an-hour, skimming it well ; then put it into an open tub to cool, and
when cold run it into your cask; when it has done working bung it up
close, and keep it three months. Then either bottle it off or draw it out
of the cask after it is a year old. This is a generous and agreeable liquor,
and would be a happy substitute in the room of the poisonous whisky.'"
So says Lightfoot. Another writer says — " In those parts of the High-
lands of Scotland where pine is not to be had, the birch is a timber for
all uses. The stronger stems are the rafters of the cabin, wattles of the
boughs are the walls and the doors, even the chests and boxes are of this
rude basket work. To the Highlander it forms his spade, his plough, and if
ne have one, his cart, and his harness ; and when other materials are
used the cordage is still withies of twisted birch. These ropes are far
more durable than ropes of hemp, and the only preparation is to bark the
twig and twist it while green."
WARTY OR KNOTTY BIRCH. — Latin, Betula VeiTucosa ; Gaelic, Beithe
Carraigeach, Beithe Dubh-chasach. This tree, though very much resemb-
ling the common birch, is quite a distinct variety, and was always treated
as such by the old Highlanders, which is another strong proof of how keenly
our ancestors studied nature, and how quick they were to discover even the
slightest peculiarity or difference in the habit or nature of any tree or plant,
and the nicety and taste with which they gave the Gaelic name descriptive
of any such peculiarity. It is a native of the Highlands, where it generally
grows larger and stronger than the common birch. It was always used by the
old Highlanders for any particular work where extra strength or durability
was required. Owing to its dark bark and its gnarled and knotty stem it is
not such a graceful tree as the common birch, but the wood is of a better
quality. (To be Continued.)
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 75
PRINCE CHARLES AT CULLODEN
THE following letter appeared in a recent issue of the Inverness Courier,
It is curious and worthy of preservation : —
The statements which I made on the occasion of the opening of our College,
that Abhot Leith was a faithful adherent of Prince Charles, and was with
him at the battle of Culloden, were, I think, not altogether without fair his-
torical foundation. They were based in the first place upon two ancient
manuscripts, as yet inedited, formerly belonging to our old Scottish Abbey
of St James's at Ratisbon in Bavaria, and now safely lodged in the
Archives of this Monastery ; and, secondly, upon the testimony of the old
tradition of the Abbey of Ratisbon, over which Abbot Leith presided
after the battle of Culloden. This tradition has been handed down to us
by Dom. Anselom Robertson, the last Scottish Monk of St James's, who
is now a Professor in this College. He received his information from
Prior Deasson, who in his turn had it from Dom. Ildefonsus Kennedy,
the annalist of the Abbey, a contemporary of Abbot Leith, and the writer
of one of the two manuscripts which lie before me.
That Prince Charles should have had his chaplain with him in the
momentous battle of Culloden, in which he was about to stake his fortunes
is natural enough, whilst the circumstance that this incident has not been
more fully recorded, may be accounted for by the fact that Dom. Gall
Leith disguised himself as a soldier, and might thus have easily escaped
special observation. A brief sketch of the life of this soldier monk may
interest some of your readers.
Robert Leith, in religion known as Dom. Gall Leith, the son of Alex-
ander Leith, was born in December 26> 1706, at Collithy, and when
twelve years old was sent with eight other youths from Scotland to the
ancient and famous Scotch Benedictine Abbey at Ratisbon. In 1726 he
became a monk of the Order of St Benedict, in 1728 completed his
philosophical studies, entered upon divinity 1731, and was sent to Salz-
burg to prosecute the study of Canon Law. He then paid a visit to Rome,
returning to St James's 1737, where he remained director of the College
till September of 1740, when he crossed the seas as a missionary, and once
more set foot on his native land : " in mense Septembris perrexit mission-
arius in Scotiam." The old monastic chronicle says — " He was a man of
singular cast, and was endowed with exceeding good natural parts ; he had
an unrelenting application. As master in speculative sciences he teached
philosophy and theology with honour, and was an able orator. He had a
penetrating head, an honest heart." Such a man was not likely to stand
listlessly with his hands hanging at his sides in times of peril and excite-
ment. From 1740 till 1747 he shared in the religious and political suffer-
ings which afflicted Scotland. He became chaplain and private confessor
to Prince Charles. The annalist tells us — " In the troubles of 1745 he
served Prince Charles as priest and soldier, by which last (he dryly adds)
he received a wound in his foot for his pains." The Edinburgh Review
(January 1864) in an article, entitled " Scottish Religious Houses Abroad,"
remarks in speaking of the Abbots of Ratisbon — " The next Abbot was
76 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
F. Leith, who accompanied Charles Edward in the affair of '45 into
England, being associated with three other priests as chaplains to the ex-
pedition" (p. 183). After the battle of Culloden it was no longer safe
for him to remain in the country. "Anno 1747 coactus est relinquere
Patriam ob tumultos bellicosos." Moreover, worn out both in mind and
"body by the incredible fatigues he had been through, he needed rest, and
betook himself to the Benedictine country house of Erfurt, in Germany.
No sooner had he recovered a little from his fatigues than he returned
again to the mission in Scotland. But such a man, guilty of the double
crime of being a priest and a Royalist, could not elude the vigilant eye of
the " Butcher Duke." On arriving in port he was apprehended on board
ship by orders of the Duke of Cumberland, and transferred to a man-of-
war, and thus carried to London. There, with two other priests, he was
thrown into prison for four months, and then set at liberty by the Minister
of the day. The rest of his life was spent in comparative tranquillity.
Three years he lived in Wales at Battington Hall, acting as chaplain to
the Duke of Powis. Whilst there he received news of his election to the
Abbacy of St James's, which he governed till his death in 1775.
By way of confirming what I said at our festal board, I may here add
that after Prince Charles escaped to France the Abbots of St James's were
continually in correspondence with the Eoyal House of Stuart up to the
death of Cardinal York. Unfortunately, nearly the whole of this inter-
esting correspondence was burnt in 1804 in the country house of Stralfeld,
in Bavaria. One precious letter, written by Cardinal York to the Abbot
of St James's, alone escaped the flames, and may now be seen at Blair's
College, Aberdeenshire.
In conclusion, allow me to add that I shall be happy to allow those
who wish it free access to any documents we may possess of interest, and
that it will always be our aim and pleasure to promote as widely as
possible the cause of literature and learning, even in however slender a
degree that may be. — I am, yours truly,
JEROME VAUGHAN, O.S.B.
ST BENEDICT'S MONASTERY AND COLLEGE, FOBT-ADGUSTTO.
TO CONTRIBUTORS.— The first article by the Rev. Donald Masson,
M.D., M.A., on " Our Gaelic Bible," will appear in our next.
THE HIGHLANDER NEWSPAPER.— Next month we shaU dis-
cuss the causes which led to the present unfortunate position of the
Highlander. We are in a position to state that it certainly was not the
want of proper support by Highlanders. The circulation was large, and
with good management the paper might have been made one of the best
weekly newspaper properties in Scotland.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 77
literature.
TRANSACTIONS OF THE GAELIC SOCIETY OF INVERNESS : VOLUME
VII. , 1877-78. Printed for the Society.
WE always peruse the Transactions of the Gaelic Society with pleasure
and profit. The volume now under notice is in every respect highly
creditable. All the papers are good — some of them really excellent, and
most of the speeches re-produced are well worth recording in this form.
The first paper is by the Eev. A. C. Sutherland, B.A., Strath braan, and
is entitled "George Buchanan on the Customs and Languages of the
Celts." It is very interesting and will well repay perusal. The session
of 1877-8 is commenced by an introductory address in Gaelic, by the
Eev. Alexander Macgregor, and is reproduced in full. It is a
" Comhradh " between Murchadh Ban and Coinneach Ciobair. Coinneach
found his way to Inverness and describes what he there saw. He, of
course, met the Ard-Albannach and the Geilteach, and gives the follow-
ing description of them : —
C. — " Chunnaic mi an dithis, agus ochan ! Is iad bha daimheil
suairce, coir. Bha 'n t-Ard-Albannach direach anns an riochd sin a
smuainich mi a bhiodh e, laidir, calma, treun, le bhreacan-an-f heile, agus
'bhonait leathainn. Ach bha mi gu tur air mo mhealladh, a' thaobh a'
bheachd a ghabh mi, mu'm fac mi e, air a' Cheilteach. 'Bha duil agam
gu'n robh e 'na spealpair caol, ard, dubh, le ite geoidh a'n cul a chluais —
cas, peasanach 'na labhairt, agus rud-eigin cosmhuil ris na sgonn-bhalaich
sin a chithear na'n cleirich ann an tamh-ionadaibh nan slighean-iaruinn !
Ach ! Ochan ! is mi a bha air mo mhealladh, seadh, gu tur air mo
mhealladh, a Mhurachaidh."
M. — " Bha thu air do mhealladh 'n ad 'bharail d'a rireadh, a Choin-
nich."
C. — " Cha robh mac mathar riamh ni's mo air a mhealladh ! Chaidh
mi 'ga fhaicinn, agus ma chaidh, chomhluich mi duine ro ghrinn agus
aoidheil, duine garbh, tiugh, sultmhor, ruighteach, geanail, agus ceart co
eu-cosmhuil ris a' chle'ireach, chaol, ghobach, dhubh sin, a bha 'san amharc
agam, 'sa tha Creag-Phadruig eu-cosmhuil ri Beinn Neabhais. Chuir sinn
uine mhor seachad cuideachd, agus bu lionmhor na nithe Gaidhealach air
an d'thug sinn lamh. Cha bheag an sochair d'an Chomunn so gu'm bheil
an t-Ard-Albannach agus an Ceilteach aig an uilinn aca, agus cha bheag
a bhuannachd do'n Ghaidhealtachd gu'm bheil iad a' dol a mach air an
cuairtibh air feadh gach gleann, eilean, agus garbh-chrioch 'nar tir."
" Leaves from my Celtic Portfolio " — two papers contributed by William
Mackenzie, secretary of the Society — are really valuable contributions,
and such as the Transactions of the Society ought generally to be devoted
to. In these papers Mr Mackenzie presents us with what he calls " Frag-
ments from his Celtic Repositories." They are certainly fragments such
a5* ought not to be lost, and Mr Mackenzie has done good service in plac-
i ;_•; them at the disposal of the Society, and, so securing a permanent place
iw Uiom in the Transactions. The fragments are curious, and would,
78 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
by themselves, be worth, the whole annual subscription to the Society.
The next paper, by Charles Fergusson, on " The Gaelic names of Trees,
Shrubs, and Plants," is a most valuable one, and deserves to be more
widely known. It has been our intention to reproduce most, if not the
whole, of it in the Celtic Magazine, and the first part of it will be found
in this issue. The essay on " The Highland Garb," by J. G. Mackay,
contains interesting information about the Highland dress, and some
valuable notes on Clan Tartans, but we think Mr Mackay has devoted
more time and space to those who assert that the Highland dress is a
modern invention, than they really deserve ; for no one with any pretence
to the most artificial knowledge of Celtic matters, will for a moment
believe in the modern theory. Mr Mackay's paper, however, will be useful
in placing facts, already well-known to Celtic students, at the disposal of
members of the Society not .so well posted up, and so enable them to
answer the ignorant and dogmatic assertions of the sneering Southron, as
well as of the more contemptible creature — the degenerate Highlander.
The paper on the " Celtic Poetry of Scotland," by Angus Macphail, is fairly
well written, though the style is samewhat tall, and exhibits an amount
of ability — or rather what may, perhaps, with more exactness, be des-
cribed as a kind of precocious genius — which, with care and a little more
economical use of the first personal pronoun and less self-assertiveness, is
sure to do good service in the Celtic field. Some very good translations
are given, as also specimens of Gaelic vowel rhymes and alliterations, the
most peculiar perhaps being that appropriated from Logan's introduction
to Mackenzie's "Beauties of Gaelic Poetry." Mr Macphail says that
" the ruling feet in Gaelic metres are the anapaest, trochee, and iambus,
and, as a general rule, hypercatelectic," and after giving a specimen of a
certain peculiar style of versification, he informs us that the metre is " the
anapaestic monometer hypercatalectic, alternating with the pure anapaestic
mouometer." This is, no doubt, learned and perhaps, to some, interesting,
but we really think it might be put in such a way as to enable persons
like ourselves, whose education has been to some extent neglected, to
spell and pronounce, to say nothing about understanding it. On the
whole the paper is worthy of careful perusal. It will be seen that the
author is most anxious to introduce harmony among Celtic students, and
this is how he does it : —
Gaelic poetry, whose richest treasure is its wealth of lyrics, many of whose authors
ate nameless, has seen its best days. It is not likely that a Celtic genius will ever more
use the ancient Celtic speech as the vehicle of his thoughts. Highlanders have not re-
spected themselves ; a: id the world, literary as well as social, has not respected them.
No periodical written entirely in Gaelic can live, even in these days when Celticism is
in the air. Its literature is in the hands of literary parvenus, who make capital out of
the enthusiasm which the revival of Celtic feeling has created, so long as it lasts.
Celtic scholarship is at a discount ; and the best educated Celts live in bitter hostility
and jealousy to one another. If Celtic genius has not contributed much to our national
literature, Celtic industry may yet advance materially the science of philology.
Dr Maclauchlan supplies a paper on " Celtic Literature " of a very
different character to the one last referred to. It was published in our
pages at the time, and the reader has already judged for himself of its
great interest and value. The contribution on the " Election of Chiefs
and the Land Laws," by John Mackay of Benreay, is capitally written,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 79
and is conclusive against the modern claim of the right to elect chiefs of
clans. Mr Mackay says, and says correctly : —
It is generally allowed by those who have studied the subject, that under Celtic
sway, the law of succession in the Highlands, if not all over Scotland, was according to
what is known as the law of Tanistry. This system implied descent from a common
ancestor ; but when a vacancy occurred in the leadership, selected a man arrived at an
age tit for war and council, in preference to the infant son (or heir-male if a minor) of
the preceding chief. The succession was thus to a certain extent regulated by the law
of expediency, and not strictly confined to the nearest male blood, the object being to
have a chief of full age, able to advise in. council and lead the clansmen in time of war.
The chief, therefore, never being a minor, the quarrels, intrigues, and bloodshed for his
guardianship, as it was called, which became so marked under the feudal system, were
avoided ; but there was no election of chiefs in the modern sense of that word, for the
succession was confined to members of the chief's family. Thus, if a chief died, leaving
his eldest son under age, one of the deceased chief's brothers would succeed as leader
of the clan, and, failing a brother, the nearest male relative who had the confidence of
the majority. It was a question in the first place of consanguinity, and not an election
in the democratic or republican sense, as some people would have us believe, nowadays.
Again —
Great stress has been laid by advocates of the elective system on the fact that two
of the Chiefs of the Macdonalds were deposed, and other chiefs appointed in their place.
These were the cases of Clanranald and Keppoch. Clanranald's case was IB 1544. He
was arbitrary and harsh ; and what I may call a revolt of his Clan took place. To pre-
serve his estate and authority, he got the assistance of his friend Lord Lovat and the
Clan Fraser to help him to subdue his refractory clansmen, and bring them back to
obedience. A battle took place. He was killed with a great many of the followers on
both sides. The hereditary chief being thus slain, the next in succession became head
of the Clan. In Keppoch's case, the revolution was effected more easily. He was con-
sidered to have become unworthy of the allegiance of the Clan, was deposed, and the
next in succession, as a matter of course, became chief. These, however, were excep-
tional cases ; and it would be just as correct to say that the succession to the throne of
Great Britain is elective because a revolution took place in 1689, by which one king was
deposed and another chosen in his place, as it would be to say that such was the mode
of electing a Highland chief from the instances I have given, or anj similar instance.
Mr Mackay puts very clearly his views on the Land Laws. He main-
tains that the people have no rights whatever in the soil. In this we
entirely differ from him, "but such a case as he puts — and puts well —
demands a very different answer to mere assertion or abuse. A full
account of the great Celtic demonstration in favour of Mr Fraser-Mack-
intosh, M.P., at Inverness in April last is given. It was at the time
more fully reported in a supplement to the Celtic Magazine than any-
where else, and further reference to it here is therefore unnecessary. The
paper by William Mackenzie, secretary, on " Bliadhna nan Caorach,"
is a remarkable and valuable contribution to the history of the
Highland Clearances. No mere quotation from this paper would give an
idea of its interest and value, and we can only recommend those who take
an interest in such questions to peruse the paper in the Transactions, a
copy of which each member of the Society receives gratis. This is the
largest and most valuable volume hitherto published by the Society. It
is highly creditable to the Secretary, not only on account of his own
valuable contributions to its pages, but also for the unusual promptitude
with which he managed, as convener of the publishing committee, to get
it through the press ; for the general excellence of the papers obtained by
him from the other contributors, and for the printing and general get-up
of the volume. The typography is everything that could be desired, and
the public owe the Gaelic Society a debt of gratitude for such a publica-
tion.
80
THE CELTIC MAGAZIKE.
FEAR AN LEADAIN THLAITH.
O&oru*.
-V
Fhir an leadain thlaith, Dh'fhag thu mi fo bhron, Tha mi trom an drasd,
Fine.
'Se sin fa mo dheoir, Fhir an leadain thlaith, dh'fhag thu mi fo bhron.
\F-4-
'Fhir 'chuil dualaich chleachdaich, 'S b«idhche fiamh ri 'fliaicinn,
D.C.
m • m
A-
^
Tha do ghaol an tasgaidh,
'N seomar glaist na m' fheoiL
KEY G.
Chorus.
I m . d :r.m I 1 : s ., d I m ., 'r : d | f . f : s ., s
I I . f :m.,d | r : m . d |r . m : 1 | s ., d : m ., r d
m . m : r ., r : d . d m . in :r.,r : d . d
D.C.
f ,f : s ., s : 1 . 1 s., f :m.d :r
Tha do ghruaigh mar shuthain,
An garaidh nan ubhall,
'8 binne learn na chuthag,
Uirighill do bheoil.
Jrhir an leadain, ttc.
An toiseach a' Gheamhraidh,
'S ann a ghabh mi geall ort,
Shaoil learn gu'm bu leam-thu,
'S cha do theann tbu'm choir.
Ihir an leadain, <fcc.
Fhir an leadainn laghaiob,
'S tu mo ruin 's mo raghain,
Na'n sguireadh tu thaghal
'S an taigh am bi 'H t-ol.
Fhir an leadain, &c.
Fhir an leadain chraobhaich,
'S og a rinn thu m' aomadh,
Thug thu mi bho 'm dhaoine
Fhuair mo shaathair og.
Fhir an leadain, cfcc.
An gair' a rinn mi 'n uiridh,
Chuir mo cheum an truimead,
'S mis a tba gu duilich,
'S muladach mo cheol.
Fhir an leadain, <kt.
NOTE.— " Fear an leadain thlaith " is a highly popular song in the West Highlands
and ia well worthy of publication here. I am not aware that the air has appeared else-
where in print.— W. M'K.
THE
CELTIC MAGAZINE.
No. XXXIX. JANUARY 1879. VOL. IV.
HISTOEY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE,
WITH GENEALOGIES OF THE PRINCIPAL FAMILIES.
BY THE EDITOR.
[CONTINUED. |
GENERAL Wade made a report to the Government, from which we extract
the part which refers to Seaforth's followers : — " The Laird of the Mac-
kenzies, and other chiefs of the clans and tribes, tenants to the late Earl
of Seaforth, came to me in a body, to the number of about fifty, and
assured me that both they and their followers were ready to pay a dutiful
obedience to your MajestyVcommands, by a peaceable surrender of their
arms ; and if your Majesty would be graciously pleased to procure them
an indemnity for the rents that had been misplaced for the time past,
they would for the future become faithful subjects to your Majesty, and
pay them to your Majesty's receiver for the use of the public. I assured
them of your Majesty's gracious intentions towards them, and that they
might rely on your Majesty's bounty and clemency, provided they would
merit it by their future good conduct and peaceable behaviour ; that I
had your Majesty's commands to send the first summons to the country
they inhabited ; which would soon give them an opportunity of showing
the sincerity of their promises, and of having the merit to set the example
to the rest of the Highlands, who in their turns were to be summoned to
deliver up their arms, pursuant to the Disarming Act ; that they might
choose the place they themselves thought most convenient to sur-
render their arms ; and that I would answer, that neither their persons
nor their property should be molested by your Majesty's troops. They
desired they might be permitted to deliver up their arms at the Castle of
Brahan, the principal seat of their late superior, who, they said, had pro-
moted and encouraged them to this their submission ; but begged that
none of the Highland companies might be present; for, as they had
always been reputed the bravest, as well as the most numerous of the
northern clans, they thought it more consistent with their honour to
resign their arms to your Majesty's veteran troops ; to which I readily
consented.
" Summonses were accordingly sent to the several clans and tribes,
the inhabitants of 18 parishes, who were vassals or tenants of the late
G
82 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Earl of Seaforth, to bring or scud in all their arms and warlike weapons to
tlie Castle of Brahan, on or before the 28th of August.
" On the 25th of August I went to the Castle of Brahan with a de-
tachment of 200 of the regular troops, and was met there by the chiefs of
the several clans and tribes, who assured me they had used their utmost
diligence in collecting all the arms they were possessed of, which should
be brought thither on the Saturday following, pursuant to the summons
they had received ; and telling me they were apprehensive of insults or
depredations from the neighbouring clans of the Camerons and others,
who still continued in possession of their arms. Parties of the Highland
companies were ordered to guard the passes leading to their country;
which parties continued there for their protection, till the clans in that
neighbourhood were summoned, and had surrendered their arms.
" On the day appointed the several clans and tribes assembled in the
adjacent villages, and marched in good order through the great avenue
that leads to the Castle ; and one after the other laid down their arms in
the court-yard in great quiet and decency, amounting to 784 of the several
species mentioned in the Act of Parliament.
" The solemnity with which this was performed had undoubtedly a
great influence over the rest of the Highland clans ; and disposed them
to pay that obedience to your Majesty's commands, by a peaceable sur-
render of their arms, which they had never done to any of your royal
predecessors, or in compliance with any law either before or since the
Union."
We extract the following account of Donald Murchison's proceedings
and that of Seaforth's vassals during his exile in France, from a most
interesting and valuable work. * It will bring out in a prominent light
the state of the Highlands and the futility of the power of the Govern-
ment at that period in the North. With regard to several of the forfeited
estates which lay in inaccessible situations in the Highlands, the com-
missioners had been up to this time entirely baffled, having never been
able even to get surveys of them effected. In this predicament in a special
manner lay the immense territory of the Earl of Seaforth, extending from
Brahan Castle in Easter Eoss across the island to Kintail, and including
the large though unfertile island of Lewis. The districts of Lochalsh and
Kintail, on the west coast, the scene of the Spanish invasion of 1719,
were peculiarly difficult of access, their being no approach from the
south, east, or north, except by narrow and difficult paths, while the
western access was only assailable to a naval force. To afl appearance, this
tract of ground, the seat of many comparatively opulent " tacksmen " and
cattle farmers, was as much beyond tne control of the six commissioners
assembled at their office in Edinburgh, as if it had been amongst the
mountains of Tibet or upon the shores of Madagascar.
During several years after the insurrection, the rents of this district
were collected, without the slightest difficulty, for the benefit of the
exiled Earl, and regularly transmitted to him. At one time a consider-
able sum was sent to him in Spain, and the descendants of the man who
carried it continued for generations to bear " the Spanyard " as an addi-
* Chambers's Domestic Aniials of Scotland,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 83
tion to their name. The chief agent in the business was Donald Murchi-
son, descendant of a line of faithful adherents of the " high chief of Kin-
tail." Some of the later generations of the family had been intrusted
with the keeping of Islandonain Castle, a stronghold dear to the modern
artist as a picturesque ruin, but formerly of serious importance as com-
manding a central point from which radiate Loch Alsli and Loch Duich,
in the midst of the best part of the Mackenzie country. Donald was a
man worthy of a more prominent place in his country's annals than he
has yet attained; he acted under a sense of right which, though unfor-
tunately defiant of Acts of Parliament, was still a very pure sense of right ;
and in the remarkable actions which he performed, he looked solely to the
good of those towards whom he had a feeling of duty. A more disin-
terested hero — and he was one — never lived.
When Lord Seaforth brought his clan to fight for King James in
1715, Donald Murchison and a senior brother, John, went as field officers
of the regiment — Donald as lieutenant-colonel, and John as major. The
late Sir Roderick J. Murchison, the distinguished geologist, great-grand-
son of John, possessed a large ivory and silver " mill," which once con-
tained the commission sent from France to Donald, as colonel, bearing
the inscription : — " James Rex : forward and spare not." John fell at
Sheriffmuir, in the prime of life ; Donald returning with the remains of
the clan, was entrusted by the banished Earl with the management of
estates no longer legally his, but still virtually so, though the eifect of
Highland feelings in connection with very peculiar local circumstances.
And for this task Donald was in various respects well qualified, for,
strange to say, the son of the castellan of Islandonain — the Sheritfmuir
Colonel — had been " bred a writer " in Edinburgh, and was as expert at
the business of a factor or estate-agent as in wielding the claymore.*
In bold and avowed insubordination to the government of George the
First, the Mackenzie's tenants continued for ten years to pay their rents
to Donald Murchison, on account of their forfeited and exiled lord, set-
ting at nought all fear of ever being compelled to repeat the payment to
the commissioners.
In 1720 these gentlemen made a movement for asserting their claims
upon the property. In William Eoss of Easterfearn and Robert Ross, a
bailie of Tain, they found two men bold enough to undertake the duty
of stewardship in their behalf over the Seaforth property, and also the
estates of Grant of Glenmoriston, and Chisholni of Strathglass. Little,
however, was done that year beyond sending out notices to the tenants,
and preparing for strenuous measures to be entered upon next year. The
stir they made only produced exitement, not dismay. Some of the duine-
uasals from about Lochcarron, coming down with their cattle to the
south-country fairs, were heard to declare that the two factors would
never get anything but leaden coin from the Seaforth tenantry. Donald
was going over the whole country showing a letter he had got from the
Earl, encouraging his people to stand 'out; at the same time telling them
that the old Countess was about to come north with a factory for the
estate, when she would allow as paid any rents which they might now
* For a shoit time before the insurrection, he had acted as factor to Sir John Pres-
ton of Preston Hall, in Mid-Lothian, now also a forfeited estate, but of minor value.
84 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
hand to him. The very first use to be made of this money was, indeed,
to bring both the old and . the young Countesses home immediately to
Brahan Castle, where they would live as they used to do. Part of the
funds thus acquired, he used in keeping on foot a party of about sixty
armed Highlanders, whom, in virtue of his commission as colonel, he pro-
posed to employ in resisting any troops of George the First which might
be sent to Kintail. Nor did he wait to be attacked, but in June 1720,
hearing of a party of excisemen passing near Dingwall with a large
quantity of aqua-vitcn, he fell upon them and rescued their prize. The
Collector of the district reported this transaction to the Board of Excise,
but no notice was taken of it.
In February 1721, the two factors sent officers of their own into the
western districts, to assure the tenants of good usage, if they would make
a peaceable submission ; but the men were seized, robbed of their papers,
money, and arms, and quietly remanded over the Firth of Attadale,
though only after giving solemn assurance that they would never attempt
to renew their mission. Resenting this procedure, the two factors caused
a constable to take a military party from Bernera Barracks into Lochalsh,
and, if possible, capture those who had been guilty. They made a
stealthy night-march, and took two men ; but the alarm was given, the
two men escaped, and began to fire down upon their captors from a hill-
side ; then they set fire to the bothy as a signal, and such a coronach
went over all Kintail and Lochalsh as made the soldiers glad to beat a
quick retreat.
After some further proceedings, all of them ineffectual, the two factors
were enabled, on the 13th day of September, to set forth from Inverness
with a party of thirty soldiers and some armed servants of their own,
with the design of enforcing submission to their legal claims. Let it be
remembered there were then no roads in the Highlands, nothing but a
few horse-tracks along the principle lines in the country, where not the
slightest effort had ever been made to smooth away the natural difficulties
of the ground. In two days the factors had got to Invermoriston ; but
here they were stopped for three days, waiting for their heavy luggage,
which was storm-stayed in Castle Urquhart, and there nearly taken in a
night attack by a partisan warrior bearing the name of Evan Eoy Mac-
giUivray. The tenantry of Glenmoriston at first fled with their bestial ;
but afterwards a number of them came iu and made at least the appear-
ance of submission. The party then moved on towards Strathglass,
while Evan Eoy respectfully followed, to pick xip any man or piece of
baggage that might be left behind. At Erchless Castle, and at Inver-
cannich, seats of the Chisholm, they held courts, and received the sub-
mission of a number of the tenants, whom, however, they subsequently
found to be " very deceitful."
There were now forty or fifty miles of the wildest Highland country
before them, where they had reason to believe they should meet groups
of murderous Camerons and Glengarry Macdonalds, and also encounter
the redoubtable Donald Murcliison, with his guard of Mackenzies, unless
then1 military force should be of an amount to render all such opposition
hopeless. An appointment having been made that they should receive
ail addition of fifty soldiers from Bernera, with whom to pass through
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 85
the most difficult part of their journey, it seemed likely that they would
appear too strong for resistance ; and, indeed, intelligence was already
coming to them, that "the people of Kintail, being a judicious opulent
people, would not expose themselves to the punishments of law," and
that the Camerons were absolutely determined to give no further provo-
cation to the Governmeat. This assured, they set out in cheerful mood
along the valley of Strathglass, and, soon after passing a place called
Knockfin, were reinforced by Lieutenant Brymer with the expected fifty
men from Bernera. There must now have been about a hundred well
armed men in the invasive body. They spent the next day (Sunday)
together in rest, to gather strength for the ensuing day's inarch of about
thirty arduous miles, by which they hoped to reach Kintail.
At four in the morning of Monday, the 2d of October, the party set
forward, the Bernera men first, and the factors in the rear. They were
as yet far from the height of the country, and from its more difficult
passes ; but they soon found that all the flattering tales of non-resistance
were groundless, and that the Kintail men had come a good way out
from their country in order to defend it. The truth was, that Donald
Murchison had assembled not only his stated band of Mackenzies, but a
levy of the Lewis men under Seaforth's cousin, Mackenzie of Kildun ;
also an auxiliary corps of Camerons, Glengarry and Glenmoriston men,
and some of those very Strathglass men who had been making appearances
of submission. Altogether, he had, if the factors were rightly informed,
three hundred and fifty men with long Spanish firelocks, under his com-
mand, and all posted in the way most likely to give them an advantage
over the invading force.
The rear-guard, with the factors, had scarcely gone a mile, when they
received a platoon of seven shots from a rising ground near them to the
right, with, however, only the effect of piercing a soldier's hat. The
Bernera company, as we are informed, left the party at eight o'clock, as
they were passing Lochanachlee, and from this time is heard of no more ;
how it made its way out of the country does not appear. The remainder
still advancing, Easterfearn, as he rode a little before his men, had eight
shots levelled at him from a rude breast-work near by, and was wounded
in two places, but was able to appear as if he had not been touched.
Then calling out some Highlander in his service, he desired them to go
before the soldiers and do their best, according to their own mode of war-
fare to clear the ground of such lurking parties, so that the troops might
advance in safety. They performed this service pretty effectually, skir-
mishing as they went on, and the main body advanced safely about six
miles. They were here arrived at a place called Ath-na-Mullach (Ford
of the Mull People), where the waters, descending from the Cralich and
the lofty mountains of Kintail, issue eastwards through a narrow gorge
into Loch Auric. It was a place remarkably well adapted for the pur-
poses of a resisting party. A rocky boss, called Tor-an-Beathaich, then
densly covered with birch, closes up the glen as with a gate. The black
mountain stream, " spear-deep," sweeps round it. A narrow path wound
up the rock, admitting only of passengers in single file. Here lay Donald
with the best of his people, while inferior adherents were ready to make
demonstrations at a little distance. As the invasive party approached,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
they received a platoon from a wood on the left, but nevertheless went
on. When, however, they, were all engaged in toiling up the pass, forty
men concealed in the heather close by fired with deadly effect, inflicting
a mortal wound on Walter Ross, Easterfearn's son, while Bailie Ross's
son was also hurt by a bullet which swept across his breast. The Bailie
called to his son to retire, and the order was obeyed ; but the two wounded
youths and Bailie Ross's servant were taken prisoners, and carried up the
hill, where they were quickly divested of clothes, arms, money and
papers. Young Easteri'earn died next morning. The troops faced the
ambuscade manfully, and are said to have given their fire thrice, and to
have beat the Highlanders from the bushes near them ; but, observing at
this juncture several parties of the enemy on the neighbouring heights,
and being informed of a party of sixty in their rear, Easterfearn deemed
it best to temporise.
He sent forward a messenger to ask who they were that opposed the
King's troops, and what they wanted. The answer was that, in the first
place, they required to have Ross of Easterfearn delivered up to them.
This was pointedly refused ; but it was at length arranged that Easter-
fearn should go forward and converse with the leader of the opposing party.
The meeting took place at Baile-ath-na-Mullach (The Town of the Mull
Men's Ford), and Easterfearn found himself confronted with Donald
Murchison. It ended with Easterfearn giving up his papers, and coven-
anting, under a penalty of five hundred pounds, not to officiate in his
factory any more ; after which he gladly departed homewards with his
associates, under favour of a guard of Donald's men, to conduct them
safely past the sixty men lurking in the rear. It Avas alleged afterwards
that the commander was much blamed by his own people for letting the
factors off with their lives and baggage, particularly by the Camerons,
who had been five days at their post with hardly anything to eat ; and
Murchison only pacified them by sending them a good supply of meat
and drink. He had in reality given a very effective check to the two
gentlemen-factors, to one of whom he imparted in conversation that any
scheme of a Government stewardship in Kintail was hopeless, for he and
sixteen others had sworn that, if any person calling himself a factor came
there, they would take his life, whether at kirk or at market, and deem
it a meritorious action, though they should be cut to pieces for it the
next minute.
A bloody grave for young Easterfearn in Beauly Cathedral concluded
this abortive attempt to take the Seaforth estates within the scope of a
law sanctioned by statesmen, but against which the natural feelings of
nearly a whole people revolted.
A second attempt was now made to obtain possession of the forfeited
Seaforth estates for the Government. It was calculated that what the
two factors, and their attendants, with a small military force, had failed
to accomplish in the preceding October, when they were beat back with
a fatal loss at Ath-na-Mullach, might now be effected by means of a good
military party alone, if they should make their approach through a less
critical passage. A hundred and sixty of Colonel Kirk's regiment- left
Inverness under Captain M'Xeill, who had at one time been Commander
of the Highland Watch. They proceeded by Dingwall, Strathgarve, and
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 87
Loch Carron, a route to the north of that adopted by the factors, and an
easier, though a longer way. Donald Murchison, nothing daunted, got
together his followers, and advanced to the top of Mam Attadale, by a high
pass from Loch Carron to the head of Loch Long, separating LochaLsh
from Kintail. Here a gallant relative, named Kenneth Murchison, and
a few others, volunteered to go forward and plant themselves in ambush
in the defiles of the Coille Bhan (White Wood), while the bulk of the
party should remain where they were. It would appear that this ambush
party consisted of thirteen men, all peculiarly well armed.
On approaching this dangerous place, the captain went forward with
a sergeant and eighteen men to clear the wood, while the main body came
on slowly in the rear. At a place called Attanbadubh, in the Coille
Bhan; he encountered Kenneth and his associates, whose fire wounded
himself severely, killed one of his grenadiers, and wounded several others
of the party. He persisted in advancing, and attacking the handful of
natives with sufficient resolution, they slowly withdrew, as unable to
resist ; but the captain now obtained intelligence that a large body of
Mackenzies was posted in the mountain-pass of Attadale. It seemed as
if there was a design to draw him into a fatal ambuscade. His own
wounded condition probably warned him that a better opportunity might
occur afterwards. He turned his forces about, and made the best of his
way back to Inverness. Kenneth Murchison quickly rejoined Colonel
Donald on Mam Attadale, with the cheering intelligence that one salvo
of thirteen guns had repelled the hundred and sixty red-coats. . After
this we hear of no renewed attempt to comprise the Seaforth property.
Strange as it may seem, Donald Murchison, two years after this a
second time resisting the Government troops, came down to Edinburgh
with eight hundred pounds of the Earl's rents, that he might get the
money sent abroad for his lordship's use. He remained a fortnight in
the city unmolested. He would on this occasion appear in the garb of a
Lowland gentleman ; he would mingle with old acquaintances, " doers "
and writers ; and appear at the Cross amongst the crowd of gentlemen
who assembled there every day at noon. Scores would know all about
his doings at Ath-na-Mullach and the Coille Bhan ; but thousands might
have known, without the chance of one of them, betraying him to the
Government.
General Wade, in his report to the King in 1725, states that the
Seaforth tenants, formerly reputed the richest of any in the Highlands,
are now become poor, by neglecting their business, and applying them-
selves to the use of arms. " The rents," he says, " continue to be col-
lected by one Donald Murchison, a servant of the late Earl's, who
annually remits or carries the same to his master in France. The tenants,
when in a condition, are said to have sent him free gifts in proportion to
their several circumstances, but are now a year and a-half in arrear of
rent. The receipts he gives to the tenants are as deputy-factor to the
Commissioners of the Forfeited Estates, which pretended power he ex-
torted from the factor (appointed by the said Commissioners to collect
those rents for the use of the public), whom he attacked with above four
hundred armed men, as he was going to enter upon the said estate, having
with him a party of thirty of your Majesty's troops. The last year this
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Murchison marched in a public manner to Edinburgh, to remit eight
hundred pounds to France for his master's use, and remained fourteen
days there unmolested. I cannot omit observing to your Majesty, that this
national tenderness the subjects of North Britain have one for the other,
is a great encouragement for rebels and attainted persons to return home
from their banishment."
Donald was again in Edinburgh about the end of August 1725. On
the 2d of September, George Lockhart of Carnwath, writing from Edin-
burgh to the Chevalier St George, states, amongst other matters of in-
formation regarding his party in Scotland, that Daniel Mnrchison (as he
calls him) " is come to Edinburgh, on his way to France " — doubtless
charged with a sum of rents for Seaforth. " He's been in quest of me,
and I of him," says Lockhart, " these two days, and missed each other ;
but in a day or two he's to be at my country house, where I'll get time
to talk fully with him. In the meantime, I know from one that saw him,
that he has taken up and secured all the arms of value in Seaforth's
estate, which he thought better than to trust them to the care and pru-
dence of the several owners ; and the other chieftains, I hear, have done
the same.
The Commissioners on the Forfeited Estates concluded their final
report in 1725, by stating that they had not sold the estate of William,
Earl of Seaforth, " not having been able to obtain possession, and conse-
quently to give the same to a purchaser."
In a Whig poem on the Highland Eoads, written in 1737, Donald is
characteristically spoken of as a sort of cateran, while, in reality, as every
generous person can now well understand, he was a high-minded gentle-
man. The verses, nevertheless, as well as the appended note, are
curious : —
Keppoch, Rob Roy, and Daniel Murcliison,
Cadets or servants to some chief of clan,
From theft and robberies scarce did ever cease,
Yet 'scaped the halter each, and died in peace.
This last his exiled master's rents collected,
Nor unto king or law would be subjected.
Though veteran troops upon the confines lay,
Sufficient to make lord and tribe a prey,
Yet passes strong through which no roads were cut,
Safe guarded Seaforth's clan, each in his hut.
Thus in strongholds the rogue securely lay,
Neither could they by force be driven away,
Till his attainted lord and chief of late
By ways and means repurchased his estate.
" Donald Murchison, a kinsman and servant to the Earl of Seaforth, bred
a writer, a man of small stature, but full of spirit and resolution,
fought at Dunblane against the Government, anno 1715. but continued
thereafter to collect Seaforth's rents for his lord's use, and had some
pickerings with the King's forces on that account, till, about five years
ago, the Government was so tender as to allow Seaforth to re-pxirchase his
estate, when the said Murchison had a principal hand in striking the
bargain for his master. How he fell under Seaforth's displeasure, and
died thereafter, is not to the purpose here to mention."
The end of Donald's career can scarcely now be passed over in this
slighting manner. The story is most painfid. The Seaforth of that day
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 89
— very unlike some of his successors — was unworthy of the devotion
which this heroic man had shown to him. When his lordship took pos-
session of the estates which Donald had in a manner preserved for him,
he discountenanced and neglected him. Murchison's noble spirit pined
away under this treatment, and he died in the very prime of his days of
a "broken heart. He lies in a remote little church-yard on Cononside, in
the parish of Urray, where, we are happy to say, his worthy relative, the
late Sir Eoderick J. Murchison, raised a suitable monument over his grave.
The traditional account of Donald Murchison, communicated to Cham-
bers by F. Macdonald, Druidaig, states that the heroic commissioner had
been promised a handsome reward for his services ; but Seaforth proved un-
grateful. " He was offered only a small farm called Bun-Da-Loch, which
pays at this day to Mr Matheson, the proprietor, no more than £60 a year ;
or another place opposite to Inverinate House, of about the same value. It
is no wonder he refused these paltry offers. He shortly afterwards left this
country, and died in the prime of life near Conon. On his death-bed,
Seaforth went to see him, and asked how he was. He said, ' Just as
you will be in a short time,' and then turned his back. They never met
again."
The death of George I., in 1726, suggested to the Chevalier a favour-
able opportunity again to attempt a rising and of stirring up his adherents
in Scotland, whither he was actually on his way until strongly remonstrated
with on the folly and hopelessness of such an undertaking at that time.
It was also pointed out to him that it could only end in the final ruin of
his family's pretensions, and of many of his friends who might be tempted
to enter on such a rash scheme more through personal attachment to his
own person than from any reasonable prospect they could see of success.
He, in consequence, retraced his steps to Boulogne, and the Earl of Sea-
forth, having been pardoned in the same year,* felt himself at liberty once
more to return to his native land, where, according to Mr Matheson, ho
spent the remainder of his life in retirement, and with few objects to
occupy him or to interest us beyond the due regard of his personal friends
and the uninterrrupted loyalty of his old vassals. He must, however, have-
been very hard up, for on the 27th of June 1728, he writes a letter to
the Lord Advocate, in which he refers to a request he made to Sir Robert
Walpole, who advised him to put his claim in writing that it might bo sub-
mitted to the King. This was done, but "the King would neither
allow anything of the kind or give orders to be granted what his royal
father had granted before. On hearing this I could not forbear making
appear how ill I was used. The Government in possession of the estate,
and I in the interim allowed to starve, though they were conscious of my
complying with whatever I promised to see put in execution." He makes
a strong appeal to his friend to contribute to an arrangement that would
* By letters dated 12fch July 1726, King George I. was pleased to discharge him
from imprisonment or the execution of his person on his attainder, and King George II.
made him a grant of the arrears of feu-duties due to the Crown out of his forfeited
estate. An Act of Parliament was passed in 1733, to enable William Mackenzie, late
Earl of Seaforth, to sue or maintain any action or suit notwithstanding his attainder,
and to remove any disability in him, by reason of his said attainder, to take or inherit
any real or personal estate that may or shall hereafter descend to him. — Wood's Douglas*
Peerage.
90
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tend to the mutual satisfaction of all concerned, " for the way I am now
in is most disagreeable, consequently, if not rectified, will choose rather
to seek my bread elsewhere than continue longer in so unworthy a situa-
tion.*
Notwithstanding the personal remission granted in his favour for the
part he had taken in the rising of 1715, the title of Earl of Seaforth,
under which alone he was proscribed, passed under attainder, while the
older and original dignity of Kintail, which only became subordinate by
a future elevation, remained unnoticed, and, consequently, unvitiated in
the male descent of Kenneth, first Lord Mackenzie of Kintail, granted by
patent on the 19th November 1609, and has accordingly been claimed, as
we shall afterwards see.t
Earl William married in early life Mary, the only daughter and heiress
of Nicholas Kennet of Coxhow, Northumberland, and by her had issue
three sons, Kenneth, Lord Fortrose, who succeeded him ; Eonald, died
unmarried ; and Nicholas, killed at Douay without issue. He had also
a daughter, Frances, who married the Honourable John Gordon of Ken-
mure, whose father was beheaded in 1715. He died in 1740 in the
Island of Lews, was buried there in the Chapel of Ui, and was suc-
ceeded by his eldest son.
(To be Continued.}
" ET EGO IN ARCADIA FUI."
From morn to eve the sunshine fills
A circle 'mid the summer hills,
Where rose-red hills of heather round
Fence in a curve of quiet ground,
And broken walls of gorse knee-high
Seem molten gold against the sky.
A swirl of tawny eddies sweeps
Between grey boulders, breaks and leaps
More swiftly to the lower ground,
As if it dreaded to be found,
A a if it spurned some dreamy spell.
Yet over this green cloister-cell
It loiters, pauses, coils, till clear
Its rippling grows within the ear,
Like slumber in a wearied brain.
Is there place here for grief or paiu
More than in some Illyrian bay ?
Is light there fairer or the play
Of shadows in the forest lawns?
Are the nights deeper or the dawns
More pearly ? This alone I know,
Warm in the crimson after-glow,
Hearing the cuckoo's last good-night
Float from the foam, seeing the light
Die on the rocks, or fade between
On the sharp blades of breathing green,
That I have lost Arcadia found
Within this spot of Highland ground.
S.
* Culloden Papers, pp. 103 4.
f This Act (of Attainder) omits all mention of the subordinate though older title of
"Lord Kintail," which he and all the collateral branches descended of George, the
second Earl, had taken up and assumed in all their deeds and transactions, though there
was no occasion to use it in Parliament as they appeared there as Earls of Seaforth It
is questionable therefore if the Act of Attainder of William, Earl of Seaforth, by that
designation only could affect the barony of Kintail; and as the designation to the
patentee of it, " Suisque heredibus maxulis," seeuis to render the grant an entailed fee
agreeable to the 7th of Queen Ai ne, o. 21, anfl the protecting clause of 26th Henry
VIII., c. 13, the claimant, George Falconer Mackenzie, is entitled to the benefit of such
remainder, and in fact such remainder was given effect to by the succession of Earl
George, to his brother Colin's titles as his heir male collateral. — AUanyrange Service.
THE CELTIC MAGAZltfE. 91
M A E Y M 0 E E I S 0 R
o
[CONTINUED.]
POOR Mary was once again sent adrift friendless among strangers. She
took up her abode in the same house as her child ; and, under her own
* care, he began to improve slowly. What with keeping herself and pro-
viding some little extras for her boy, she too soon found herself almost
penniless. The landlady, on seeing her resources exhausted, requested
her to leave and seek other lodgings. She had to part with some of her
clothing to make up the few shillings she owed this woman, and left with
only a shilling in her pocket, and, carrying her sickly child, she made
her way along the coast towards Greenock. There has been always a
lingering feeling present with her attracting her to the original home of
her departed husband, though she knew no one there — not even her
mother-in-law. The first night she paid the last money she had for their
bed and a little milk for the child. It was far on in the afternoon of the
second day when she came to the outskirts of Greenock. She sat down
on the road-side to think 011 what she was to do. She felt weak, hungry,
and exhausted, carrying her sick boy during so long a journey. Her poor
child felt sore with the carrying and even cried for bread. She had now
little of any value to dispose of to procure what would appease their
hunger, and thought on the seal her husband had given her. She took
it out of her bosom, where she always kept it, looked first at it, and then
at her fretful child, but oh ! could she part with it. She wept bitterly
till the child, poorly and hungry as he was, climbed up to her breast,
took her head between his white and wasted little hands, and kissed her
— the only way in which he could express his sympathy with his suffer-
ing mother. This roused her to a sense of their condition. She rose up,
took the boy in her arms, and walked towards the town, determined to
sell the trinket for what it would bring, and so save the life of her child.
So intense were her feelings that she held up the seal in her hand toward
the heavens, and appealed to the spirit of her lost husband to witness the
necessity that compelled her to part with his gift. After getting into
the town she looked about for a shop likely to purchase such an article,
and soon noticed a large jeweller's shop, to which she went and asked an
elderly gentleman behind the counter if he would be so kind as to tell
her the value of the seal, at the same time handing it to him. He looked at
it, and then at her and at the child, and asked her where she got it. She,
in a hesitating manner, said she could not very well tell him where or how
she got it, but if he did not choose to let her know its value she would
thank him to hand it back to her. Instead of doing that he sent one of
his assistants for a police-officer, to whom he gave her in charge. Poor
Mary, led away by the man dumb as a sheep to the slaughter, was
put into one of the cells till morning. The jeweller wrote a note to the
Provost, who happened to be no other than Councillor Maccallum, owner
of the missing ship, Glencairn, stating that a strange young woman
with a child had called at his shop to dispose of a gold seal,
92 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
the same lie had some years before bought from him, and which he
had presented to the late Captain Graharae with a gold watch, and
that he thought it proper to detain her for examination in the morning,
as her statement might throw some light on the mysterious fate of their
late friend. Poor Mary could not imagine why she was so dealt with.
To the credit of the officer in charge at the station she was not put
among the diunken, disreputable characters usually found in such places
waiting for trial in the morning. He put her into a place more cleanly
and comfortable than the common cells. Seeing the weak and feeble
condition both of them were in, he procured some refreshments for
them. His long experience of the criminal classes enabled him at a
glance to judge she was none of that stamp. Next morning she was
brought before the Magistrates, and questioned as to how she came into
possession of the seal. All she would say was that she got it honestly
and was a gift to her by its owner. She did not steal it nor did she
deserve being put in prison for it, she persisted in saying, and that she
had it in her possession for several years. When pressed and threatened
to be separated from her child, she looked up in the face of the Provost,
who presided, and said that if that gentleman would take her statement
in private she would tell him how and when she got it. After some con-
sultation it was agreed that he should retire with her to a private room,
where she told him the simple story of her first meeting with Grahame
and their subsequent marriage. She also stated facts connected with
Grahame and the ship while at Tobermory that quite satisfied him that
her tale was true. He led her back to the court-room with as much
kindness and respect as if she were his own equal in social position, and
explained to his brother magistrates that she got the seal from the hands
of Grahame himself under circumstances which reflected no disgrace upon
her character, when she was discharged and the seal given back to her.
The Provost desired her to wait a little till the Court was over, as he
wished to speak to her again. She did so, and when he came to her he
handed her a pound note, at the same time giving instructions to one of
the officers of the Court to go along with her to procure comfortable
lodgings. He desired her to call at his house next day and see Mrs Mac-
callum. A few hours after leaving the Court she fortunately procured
lodgings in the house of a respectable working man not long married.
Everything about the house was in such good order and so clean that the
sight of it in a manner eased her mind of the effects of her late trials.
The blythe and happy-looking young wife very soon put her mind at
greater ease than she had felt for weeks — rays of the dawn of better
days began to shine into her wounded heart. Her natural good spirits
responded to the cheerfulness of her more fortunate landlady, and when
the husband came home in the evening Mary found him, in course of
conversation, to be much better instructed than the generality of his
class. He was foreman over the joiners in one of the shipbuilding yards
in the town. Mary felt impressed with the evident care of an all wise
Piovidential guidance in directing her wandering steps to the abode of
this truly homely and happy pair. She very properly considered that the
disposer of every action of her life meant these trials for her good to draw
her closer to Himself by means of an intelligent perception of His character
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 93
as a God of love. When time came for retiring to rest, Mary knelt
down at the side of the bed on which her boy was already sound asleep,
and poured out her heart-felt gratitude for her recent deliverance. Next
day she made her way to the Provost's house. He was in when she
called, and both he and his lady received her very kindly. She gave
them some details of her husband's stay at Tobermory, their marriage,
and as much of her own private history as she thought prudent. Dis-
covering that the young widow was a good white seamstress, Mrs Mac-
callum promised to use her influence among her acquaintances to procure
work for her. In a few weeks Mary had as much as she could well
manage, besides employing her landlady's spare time. Her child daily
gained health and strength. She made enquiries about her late husband's
mother, and was told she was staying with some friends in the neigh-
bourhood of Hamilton. Hearing some time afterwards that her mother-
in-law had retured to Greenock, she lost no time in calling upon her.
The Provost's lady very thoughtfully asked Mary to allow her to accom-
pany her when she went to see her, as her testimony would be a confir-
mation to Grahame's mother of her daughter-in-law's statements. They
found her in a small room by herself. For support she did a little by
knitting stockings ; a few friends gave her a trifle now and then, which,
with a small pittance from the parish, managed to keep her in life. When
the aged widow was told of Mary's relationship with her lost son, she
could scarcely believe it, as she never heard him say anything about his
being married, and he never did anything, even of much less importance
than getting a wife, without asking her advice in the matter ; but after the
boy was presented to her, she had no more doubt of the truth of the
story. She at once declared that he was the very picture of his father
when about that age.
Mary was now in very comfortable circumstances, being able to lay
a little money past her from time to time. Her business increased so
much that she had to get an assistant from Glasgow, and by this time
she had some thoughts of taking a house for herself ; but after seeing her
mother-in-law she made up her mind to bring the aged widow home with
her. She told her kind friend and patroness, Mrs Maccallum, who highly
approved of her intentions. When the Provost came to know of it he
insisted on his being allowed to assist her in furnishing the house, and
when the house was taken, he not only provided the plenishing, as it was
there called, but sent men at his own expense to put everything in its
place, and Mary had little more to do in the matter than to come in and
take possession. She took her aged mother-in-law with her, and resolved
to give her all the comfort in her power, for the sake of him she loved so
well, now that she was 'deprived of the help he never failed to give his
mother while he was in life.
Mary, as we still like to call her, was about eighteen months in
Greenock, doing well and truly respected by all who had occasion to know
her. She was much improved in appearance, and really had a fine
cultivated lady-like deportment, which, no doubt, her constant contact
with the most accomplished ladies of the town helped to produce.
One morning, as one of the Liverpool traders came up to the quay, a
man stepped ashore and was on the point of walking towards the town,
94 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
when one of the brokers, who generally frequented the quay on the arrival
of ships, recognised him, and touched him on the shoulder. The stranger
turned round, and he held out his hand as if to a friend. Both walked
on in the direction of the buildings where most business men then had
their offices, and called at the Provost's office. It was too early in the
day for him to be there, but his chief-clerk, who had just come in, at once
recognised his fast and long-lost friend, Captain Grahame. After mutuul
congratulations, a cab was immediately sent for, in which they drove to
the residence of Mr Maccallum. His old owner at once recognised him
though he was much changed, being darker in complexion and much
thinner in comparison to his former robust and ruddy countenance. The
good man was as much affected at seeing him alive again as if he had
found a long lost son. While the two were closetted together Mrs Mac-
callum sent a boy with a note to Mary, desiring her to call immediately
at her house and to bring the boy along with her. When Mary read the
note she wondered Avhat was wanted at that time of the day. She, how-
ever prepared to go at once; for the lady had been too good a friend not
to attend to her wishes. When she and her boy arrived at the house
she was surprised to find the door-bell answered by the lady herself.
There was a something so tender and yet so hopeful in Mrs Maccallum's
looks and manner as she now and again gazed earnestly in Mary's face.
Entering a sitting-room Mary was puzzled by the unusual manner of her
friend, who felt at a loss how to break the news to the supposed widow.
She was still more surprised to find the lady beginning the conversation
by alluding to the loss of tho ship her husband had command of, instead
of, as she expected, some business transaction. Mrs Maccallum com-
menced by saying it was very strange no word was ever heard of the fate
of the Glencairu. Still, she had heard of vessels supposed to have been
lost with all hands, and yet some of the crews had cast up after a longer
time than their ship had been missing. Her manner of saying this, and
the fact that she seldom spoke to her on the subject for some time pre-
viously, awakened a suspicion in Mary's mind that she had heard some
news of the ship, which made her tremble. She implored her friend if
she knew anything not to conceal it any longer, at the same time assuring
her that she was prepared to hear the worst. The lady saw that to
keep her longer in suspense would hurt her more than the sudden
reality, and she rose up, saying she would call Mr Maccallum, as he knew
more than she could tell. She then went where the gentlemen were and
whispered in her husband's ear to come and bring Grahame witli him. No
sooner did husband and wife see each other then they were locked in each
other's embrace ; and, following the example of the Provost and his wife,
we shall in tho meantime leave them by themselves. When the latter
returned to the room they found Mary very calm but bearing evident
traces of the severe mental ordeal she had gone through. She had her boy
clasped to her breast, \vlio, whenever his father offered to sit near his
mother, frowned \\ ith his fine open brow. No coaxing or bribing could
induce Bobby to relax his hold of his mother.
As an additional proof of the kindness of Mrs Maccallum, she went
to Mary's house to prepare the elder Mrs Grahame for the joyful tidings.
To attempt a description of the meeting between mother arid son would only
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 95
marr the pleasure of all interested in the happiness of all concerned. True
and faithful friend as the Provost's lady was to Mary, she was the
means of raising the rather awkward question in the circumstances —
Whether there was not some impropriety in Mary living with Grahame as
his wife merely on the binding of a Gretna Green marriage ? It was only on
the solemn promise of both that they would be joined over again by the
minister of the Gaelic Church that she would allow Grahame to live in
the same house with his wife.
After the first excitement of the restoration of the dead into life, as it
were, was over, and Grahame, his wife, and mother were left by them-
selves, it was most affecting to witness the old mother sitting beside her
son with her arm through his, holding him as if some one was ready again
to snatch him away, her disengaged hand resting on the top of his head,
her eyes fixed on his face, tears of joy streaming down her cheeks, saying
to her son, as well as her sobs and failing breath would permit her.
" Oh Robert, my son, never forget to your wife the kindness and tender-
ness shown by her to your poor lonely mother, since the day a kind
Providence directed her steps to where I was, when all other aids nearly
failed me." Then, taking hold of Mary's hand, and putting it into that of
her son, grasping them in her own trembling fingers, she said with solemn
impressiveness, her eyes looking upwards, " Let my end be soon or late,
may the Father of all mercies bless and prosper you both, now that you
are united," and " love her, Eobert, as I know she loves you." Then
taking hold of his arm again she continued — " And.oh ! my son, where
have you been, and what has kept you away so long. Well do I know
that it was not with your will you stayed away from us."
He then told them that when they were two-thirds of the voyage out
they were attacked and boarded by an armed pirate, who had killed most
of the crew. None survived the fight but himself and other two — all
severely wounded. They were taken on board the pirate, carried to the
stronghold of the robbers, and kept in strict confinement. What became
of the Glencairn they never knew. One of his wounded companions died
shortly after landing. He and the other slowly recovered, after which they
were obliged to work at whatever they could do in their prison house.
They never were let out without being well guarded, and then only when,
some piece of work was to be done outside.
About five months before the time he arrived home, in early morning
one day they were awakened out of their sleep by a great noise of
shouting and tumult among the colony of pirates. In a short time after
the booming of cannon was heard in the distance. The sound gradually
neared them, and then a heavy shot came crashing through a building
close to where they were confined. They started to their feet, expecting
the next shot would hit their cell, and hurriedly put on what clothes they
had. Shot after shot came tearing through the buildings. They could
distinctly hear the crashing of falling portions of the rude fortress. Soon
musket firing was heard close to them. By this they judged some armed
ship had attacked the place and landed men to take it. They felt mad
with excitement to be free and out to aid the evident enemies of their
captors — whoever they might be. The fact of the heavy shots striking
everywhere but in the place they were in seemed to them a cruel mockery
96 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
of their misery. After an evident struggle on shore the noise and fighting
ceased, and an almost insufferable silence succeeded, and yet no way of
escape from their dungeon appeared to them. They imagined they heard
some groaning as if some one was in pain not i'ar from them. They
searched earnestly at every crevice in the walls, till they found one spot
where the cement which joined the stones Avas softer than the rest. At
this they picked with any piece of hard substance within their reach.
After hours of anxious toil they succeeded in removing a large stone,
through which they were able to get out of the dungeon. Their only
guide in groping their way in the darkness was the groans they pre-
viously heard. At length they came upon a wounded man — one of their
captors — who evidently was on the point of death. They raised him to an
easier position, and left him to die. They soon found their way out of
the ruins. Outside not a living creature could they see ; not a ship or
boat was on the water before the place, bearing the water-side they
observed iinmistakeable traces of the deadly struggle which must have
taken place there — a few dead bodies lay in pools of blood — all who were
able muot have escaped to the other side of the island. They then fell
in with a stout boat much riddled with musket shots. They patched the
holes as well as they could, went back to the ruins, and fortunately came
on some cooked victuals, which they carried to the boat, and set out to
sea. By this time it was dark. Towards morning they found themselves
entering on the open sea, and made all haste to get further out for fear
they might be seen from the land and chased. On the eighth day
they saw a sail ahead, which, after some hours, noticed them, and,
to their great joy, hove down upon them and took them on board. The
ship proved to be a French vessel bound for Jamaica. They were kindly
treated by the Frenchman, who landed them safe and sound when he
arrived at his destination. The man saved along with him shipped on
board an American for the East Indias, while he himself wrought his
passage to Liverpool as a sailor before the mast.
About three weeks after Grahame's return, a little old man called at
the office of Mr Maccallum asking to see him. Ho sooner was he
ushered into his presence and Ijeard him speak than he knew him to be a
Highlander. The Provost, himself a Celt, kindly told him to tell his
story in his native tongue. The stranger began by saying that he
was a cow-feeder in the Townhead of Glasgow, and some time ago he
bought some hay from a farmer near Largs, and paid some of the price in
advance. When the hay was sent to him he found it much damaged by
salt water through the leaking of the boat conveying it. He refused to
take it in that condition, and demanded back his money. This the
farmer would not do. Some of his friends in Glasgow advised him to see
Mr Maccallum, who would be sure to tell him the right way to go about
the matter. Mr Maccallum asked his name and address, as well as that
of the farmer. He said that his name was Donald Morrison, and though
he now lived in Glasgow he originally belonged to Skye. The Provost
asked how long since he left Skye and if he had any family. These
questions seemed to upset the poor old man, who appeared as if he had
been suddenly taken ill. A glass of spirits was procured, which soon
brought him round, when ho continued, saying, that he left his home in
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 97
Skye several years ago, but that he did not then come to Glasgow, but
went to Canada. That country did not agree with his wife, who never
was strong since they lost their only child, a daughter, a little before
they left. This satisfied the merchant that he was speaking to young
Mary's father, and when Mr Maccalluin went home, he sent a note to
Grahame desiring him to call with Mrs Grahame that evening. When
they came he told them of his visitor from Glasgow, which so excited
Mary that she would be off to Glasgow that evening to see her parents,
and was only persuaded from doing so by her husband promising he
would accompany her next morning. On arriving in Glasgow next day
they took a conveyance to the address in the Townhead, and on their
approaching the house they observed a young woman standing in the
door. Enquiring if Mr Morrison lived there, the girl, without saying a
word, ran into the house and left them. In a short time the old man
came out, and, looking earnestly at Mary, hurried to meet her without
noticing Grahame, and, taking her in his arms, exclaimed in a faltering
voice in his native language " Taing do Dhia gu bheil thu beo " (Thank
God that you are alive). The daughter hung upon his neck unable to
speak. Grahame himself, though he used to have more command over
his feelings, was obliged to turn aside to hide his emotion. All this time
the girl they had first seen stood with open mouth and staring eyes in the
passage. She then bolted through to the byre, where Mary's mother was,
shouting in Gaelic, " Oh, mistress, there is a grand lady and gentleman at
the door with a fine coach, and the master is kissing the lady." Mrs
Morrison hurriedly left off what she was doing, and came into the house.
By this time the strangers were in the room. When the mother saw
Mary she stood still, lifted her hands above her head, fainted away, and
would have fallen if Grahame had not taken hold of her and led her to
a seat.
While Mary attended to her mother in another apartment, old Donald,
in the best English he had, got into conversation with Grahame. He
soon understood that he was the sailor man for whom his daughter had
refused so many good matches, and that she was now his wife. He saw
Mary might have got a worse bargain, as he afterwards said that " the
honest man was stamped in his face." Donald went to a press in the
corner of the room, came back with a big bellied black bottle and dram
glass, told the girl to set some bread and cheese on the table, drew the
cork, filled up the glass, and, in accordance with the custom of his
country, took his son-in-law by the hand, drank off a glass to the health
and happiness of his son and daughter, re-filled the glass, handed it to
Grahame, who drank health and length of days to the old couple. The
mother, after getting over the effects of seeing her lost child restored to
her in life and health, joined the men. The aged pair seemed to feel as
if time had gone back many years. Donald especially spoke and acted
as if he had no other object in what remained to him of life than to atone
for what sorrow and misery his love of gear had occasioned to himself and
others. The conversation naturally turned upon how their daughter and
her husband had fared during " the dark years of their separation," as
Donald termed it, and what their views were now that they were re-
united. Mary, wife-like, was the first to speak, saying that if she could
H
98 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
help it her husband should never again take such long out-of-the-way
voyages. Grahamo said that although the pay in a coasting vessel was
not equal to that paid to captains in command of over-sea-going ships, he
would not go against his wife's inclination in the latter, and that perhaps
"by industry and carefulness, in a few years, they might save a little
money to buy a small vessel of their own. Here Donald again got up
and went to what he called his " kist," came back with a piece of paper
and handed it to Grahaine, who, after looking at it, gave it to his Avife.
She found it was. a bank deposit receipt for .£300, and held it back to
her father again saying, that they could not think of taking it, as they
might need it themselves, when not able to do anything for a living.
The old man answered, " Tuts, tuts, lassy, take it, I have more left. I
got more than that with your mother." When Mary told her mother
she had a little boy at home with its other grandma, nothing would restrain
the old lady from going down to Greenock that evening to see her grand-
child. Old Donald declared that if she went so would he, and both
went back to Greenock with the young couple.
The Provost and his lady took such an interest in the extraordinary
episodes in the career of his friends, that they invited them all to meet
him one evening, before the old couple went back to their cows in Glas-
gow. Mary, with pardonable pride, told Mrs Maccallum about her
father giving her husband the amount of money already stated for the
purpose of purchasing a vessel. The Provost generously offered to
advance a certain sum towards the same object, and to give ample time
for repayment. Old Donald, elevated a little with an extra glass of the
Provost's whisky, gave the table such a thump as made everything upon it
dance before their eyes, saying that he would himself give another
hundred, so that they might buy a " wise-like vessel " when they were
about it. The selection and purchase of the craft was left to the judg-
ment of Mr Maccallum. Amidst all Mary's happiness her mother's
failing health caused her uneasiness. She prevailed upon her father to
give up their toilsome establishment in Glasgow, and to take a house near
herself in Greenock that she might the better see to her mother's comfort.
Her parents near her, her husband master of a handy vessel of his own,
Mary was indeed bappy. Still there was a source of some anxiety for
such a mind as hers — the fear of her parents spoiling little Bobby, who
was scarcely ever away from them. He was so idolised by them that
his slightest wish or whim was attended to and gratified. Heavier
troubles were soon, however, to come to her. Mother .paid the debt of
nature, and in a few weeks after her mother-in-law was taken away. The
death of the latter she mourned as much as that of her own mother, for
she came to love her as much. After his wife's death old Donald went
to live with liis daughter. Grahame was well employed with his vessel
and making money ; his wife gave up her business ; her family increasing
she could not so well attend to it. Her father in a few years followed
his wife and was laid beside her. Grahame and Mary founded a family
in Greenock, who were well known for generations after them, and who
took their place among the most respectable of its citizens.
LODA.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 99
OUE GAELIC BIBLE.
o
MANY readers of the Celtic Magazine have doubtless a vivid remembrance
of the controversy which not more than a dozen years ago was waged full
warmly as to the propriety of revising the authorised English version of
the Holy Scriptures. On the one hand, it was argued that, in common
honesty, we were bound to put in the hands of the unlearned the best
possible translation of the sacred volume — a translation which, embodying
the latest results of modern criticism, and making our English Bible as
nearly as possible a living transcript to our common people of the original
sacred documents, would come home to them with full authority, and be
received without misgiving, as setting forth the mind of the Spirit and
the very truth of God. On the other hand, there were many men, un-
doubtedly learned as confessedly they were pious, who shrank from the
difficulties which, at this time of day, obviously stood in the way of a
new authorised version of the Bible. These difficulties were manifold, but,
above all other considerations, it was argued that the Christian world was
so divided, and the various sects were so bitterly opposed the one to the
other, that no new version, however excellent and honest, could ever be
received with the same confidence which all were willing, by a sort of
tacit understanding, to extend to the present version.
In such a controversy it belongs not to the Celtic Magazine to mingle.
As a matter of history we merely chronicle the fact, that the controversy
is now, and has been for some years, in the way of quietly settling itself.
For good or evil, the work of revising our English Bible is now about
half completed.
With the English Bible thus thrown into the crucible of revision, it
is natural that we should ask, how fares it with our own Gaelic Bible ?
What is its present condition, and how has it come to be what it is 1
Now it must not be forgotten that our Gaelic Bible c'ould at no time
be said to be " authorised " in the sense in which our present English
version is authorised. It never received any national or Parliamentary
sanction ; and there is no National Bible Board, to which is solemnly
committed the responsibility of securing the perfect purity of its text.
It is true that the Gaelic Bibles in circulation among Scottish Highlanders
for many years previous to I860 were issued with the authority and sanc-
tion of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. But the version
almost exclusively in circulation since 1860 has no sanction, either of the
Established or Free Church. In fact, that version rests entirely on the
authority of two names — the names of Dr Clerk, of Kilmalie, and Dr
Maclauchlan, of Edinburgh. Several years ago an attempt was, no doubt,
made, by means of a joint committee of the two churches, to place this
weighty matter on a broader and firmer basis ; but the committee has gone
into abeyance without any practical result ; and so the broad shoulders of
the two learned gentlemen just named still bear the burden which, in
I860, they took upon themselves, or, to speak more correctly, which they
accepted at the hands of the National Bible Society of Scotland, Of the
100 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
merits or demerits of the version of these two gentlemen this is not the
place to speak. On such ground we are not critics but simple historians.
How did the Gaelic Bible come to be what it was previous to 1860?
On the threshold of this inquiry we are met by this curious fact, that the
Gaelic Bible first printed in Scotland, for the use of the Scottish Gael,
was not at all a Scotch Gaelic version. It did not, indeed, profess to be.
It was simply a transliteration of the Irish Bible : athruighte go haireach
as an litir Eireandha gu min-litir shol-leighidh Romhante: carefully
transposed from Irish to Roman type. The first issue of this Irish Bible
for the use of Scotch readers was in 1690. There is now before us a
copy of the rarer edition printed in Glasgow by loin On- in 1754. The
title page of the New Testament is as follows : — " Tiomna Nuadh ar
DTighearna agus ar Slanuigheora losa Criosd, ar na tharruiug go
firinneach as Gregis go Gaoidheilg, re Uilliam 0 Domhnuill. Noch ata
anois, ar inhaithe choitchinu Ghaoidhealtacht Albann, athruighte go
haireach as an litir Eireaudha go min-litre shol-leighidh Romhanta.
Maille ri suini agus brigh na Ccaibidleach os a ccionn an Tiodaluibh
aithghear ; le R. KIRKE, M.A." At the end of the volume a vocabulary
of eight pages is introduced with an address to a leaghoir chairdeil, in
which the author explains that he was moved to prepare this help to the
intelligent reading of the book, by reason of there being in it iomad focal
cmaidh do-thuigse, especially to such as were not familiar with snas
chanamhain na Heirinn. The Bibliotheca Scoto-Celtica of Reid gives no
place to either edition of this work in the List of Gaelic Bibles, though
both are mentioned at page 47 of the introduction. There is some con
fusion also in Reid's description of the Irish original. The Irish New
Testament, begun by Walsh and Kearny, he alleges to have been com-
pleted by a certain Nehemiah Donellan, and on the next page he speaks
of the Irish Prayer-book as the work of William O'Donnell, afterwards
Archbishop of Tuam. But the Irish Testament always, so far as Ave have
observed, bears the imprint, ris an tathair is onoruighthe a Ndia, UILLIAM
O'DoMHNUiLL, aird easing Ihuaim. We rather think that this William
was the real Nehemiah who completed the work of Walsh and Kearny.
But what is the significance of the fact that nearly 200 years ago Kirke,
a Scotch Highlander, the minister of a parish so entirely Highland as Bal-
quhidder must then have been, should provide Irish Bibles for general use
among his countrymen ? One conclusion seems to us irresistible— -that the
Gaelic spoken in Ireland and Scotland at that time was much more nearly
one language than is the ease to-day. And aunt he i- conclusion may be set
down as self-evident, that the natural tendency of ' the 'twin forms of
speech to diverge yet more and more apart, each on its' several way, must
have been very materially checked by the use, so far as it was used, of
Kirke's Bible in the Scottish Highlands. That is to say, but for the
Bible of Kirke our living Scotch Gaelic would have been, in a large
measure, less Irish than it is to-day. Nor will our estimate of the actual
effect of this potential element, in our more recent linguistic history, be
at all lessened, when we consider how marked an effect it had on the
earlier versions of the Bible, which were given to our people in Gaelic,
professedly Scotch. The earliest of these is the New Testament of 1767,
prepared for the Society in Scotland for Propagating Christian Know-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
101
ledge, by the Eev. James Stewart, minister of Killin. It breathes through-
out an unmistakeable aroma of its Irish predecessor. Space avails not for
long or many extracts ; let these suffice : an Soisgeul do reir Mhata ;
agus an uair do chunnairc losa an sluagli; an sin a dubhairt Peadar;
ach ni mar a cJioire, mar sin ata 'n saor-thiodklac. The Killin version
was doubtless, in many respects a great improvement on the Irish version
of the Archbishop of Tuam, but equally evident is it, as Dr Moulton *
says, of the early English versions of Tyndale and Miles Coverdale, in
their relation to the later authorised text, that " a multitude of passages,
remarkable for beauty and tenderness, and often for strength and vigour,
are common " to the earlier Irish and our later Gaelic version of the Holy
Scriptures. Indeed a careful comparison of these two versions will reveal
the fact, that for some of the chiefest beauties of our Gaelic Bible we are
largely indebted to Bedel and O'Donnell. To ignore this, or to slur it
over, would be not only ungenerous but unfair. Take, for example, as
test passages, these two sublime chapters, the 55th of Isaiah and
the 8th of Komans, which, perhaps, of the whole Bible are the best
known among our people. If our space would admit of the Irish and
Gaelic of both chapters being all set up in parallel columns, there are few
of our readers who would not be surprised to observe how little change
the latter has made on the former. A verse or two, taken at random, is
all we can give : —
IRISH.
H» tigeadh gach uilc dhuine tartmbor
chum na. nuisgeadh agus an te ag nach
bhfuil airgiod ; tighidh se, ccannchuidh
agus ithidh ; tigidh, fos, ceannchaidh fion
•agus bainne gan argiod agus gan luach.
Creud fa ccaithighe argiod ar uidli nach
aran ? agus bhur saothur re nidh nach
sasuigheann ? eistigh go duthrachtach
riomsa, agus ithidh an nidh is maith, agus
biodh dull ag bhur nan am a meuthus.
Claonuidh bhur ccluas, agus tighidh
chugamsa : cluinidh agus marfidh bhur
nanain, &c, — Isai 55, 1-3.
Agus ata a fhios aguiim go gcomhoib-
righeann gach uile nidh chum maitheasa
do na daoinibh ghradhuigheas Dia, iioch a
ta ar na ngairm do reir a orduighesion. —
Horn. 8, 28.
Uime sin creud a dearam fa na neithi-
bhsi ? Ma ata Dia linn, cia fheadus bheith
ar naghuidh ? 31.
Oir ata dheirbhfhios agam nach budh
heidir le bas, na le beatha, na le hainglibh,
na le huachdaranachduibh, na le cutnha-
chtuibh, na leis na neithibh ata do lathair,
na leis na neithibh ata chum teachda, na
le hairde, na le doimhne, na le creatur ar
bith eile. sinne dhealughadh o ghradh De,
ata a Niosa Criosd ar Dtighearna. 38, 39.
An improved edition of James Stewart's New Testament appeared in
1796, under the care of his son, Dr John Stewart of Luss, who, in
GAELIC.
Ho gach neach air am bheil tart thigibhse
chum nan uisgeachan ; agus easan aig
nach 'eil airgiod, thigibh, ccannaichibh
agus ithibh ; seadh, thigibh, ceannaichibh,
gun airgiod agus gun luach, tioii agus
bainna.
Car son a ta sibh a' caitheatnh airgid air
ni nach aran? agus bhur saothair air ni
nach sasuich ? Eisdibh le deadh aire
riutnsa, agus ithibh an ni ata maith, aa;us
gabhadh 'ur n-anam toilinntinn ann an
cuilm shogh-mhoir. Aoniaibh 'ur cluas,
agus thigibh a' m' ionnsuidh-sa ; eisdibh,
agus mail-kill 'ur n' anam beo, &c.
Agus a ta fhios agaiun gu'n comhoibrich
na h-uile nithe chum maith do'n dream
aig am bheil gradh do Dhia, eadhon
dhoibhsan a ghairmeadh a reir a ruin.
Ciod uime sin a their sinn ris na nithibh
sin? Ma tha Dia leiun, co dh'fheudas bhi
'nar n-aghaidh ?
Oir ata dearbh-bheachd agam nach bi
bas, no beath, no aingil, no uachdaran-
achda, no cumhachda, no nithe a ta lathair,
no nithe a ta ri teachd, no airde, no
doimhne, no creutair sam bith eile, com-
asach air sinne a sgaradh o ghradh Dhe a
ta ann an losa Criosd ar Tighearn.
* The History of the English Bible. By the Kev. W, F. Moulton, M.A., D.D.
Cassell & Co.
102 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
a prefatory " advertisement," thus speaks of his lather's version: — "In
the opinion of good judges, the work was executed in the most faithful
manner, and it has been well reqeived in every part of the Highlands.
The author, however, was himself sensible that it was susceptible of im-
provement, and in an interleaved copy [he] marked with his own hand several
corrections, which, in the present edition, have been carefully made.
With a view to its further improvement, the translation has lately, in
whole or in part, been revised by gentlemen in different parts of the
Highlands, who were every way qualified for that important task, and
who freely communicated their remarks to the editor. He has ventured,
however, to make no alterations, but such as, on critical examination,
appeared necessary and important, and such as the author himself, had
he been in life, would have probably approved."
How carefully, and yet with what filial tenderness, the younger
Stewart revised the work of his father, will best be seen by comparing a
verse from their several translations (John iii. 3), to which, for the readers'
convenience, the corresponding verse in the Irish Testament is added : —
IRISH.
Do fhreaguir losa agus a
dubhairt se ris, Go dcimhin
deimbin, a deirim riot, nnuna
gheintear duine a ris nach
eidir leis rieghachd De
dfaicsin.
KILLIN.
Fhreagair losa agus a
dubhairt se ris, Gu deimhin
deimhin a deirim riut, mur
beirthear duine a-ris, nach
flieudar leis rioghachd Dhe
fhaicsin.
LUSS.
Fhreagair losa agua a
dubhairt e ris, Gu deimhin
deimhin a deirim riut, mur
beirear duine a ris, nach
feud e rioghachd Dhe
fhaicinn.
The change of se to e, Icirthcar to beirear, a-ris to a ris, nach feudar leis
to nach feud e, fhaicsin to fhaicinn, shows how minutely, and with how
critical an eye, the younger Stewart examined the work of the elder. Lut
why did he spare a dubhairt e, and a deirim riut? Was it because in
his day these expressions were counted good Gaelic ? Or was it only the
natural tendency of a pious man tenderly to spare every twig that could
possibly stand unpruned, in what to him was sacred and venerable as the
tree of life ? One thing is certain : no man who knows anything of the
life and character of Dr John Stewart will suppose for a moment that
these expressions, now branded as foreign to our Scottish Gaelic, were
allowed to stand either through want of care or through defective know-
ledge of what was then esteemed pure idiomatic Gaelic.
While, as Highlanders, we are? grateful to the Stewarts for their pious
labour, which was indeed to them a labour of love, as to our people it has
been a gift of peerless price, we must never forget our vast obligations
for this and many other munificent gifts, to the oldest, and still one of
the richest and most enterprising, of the religious associations of our land/
For it was at the request, and entirely at the expense, of the Society in
Scotland for Propagating Christian Knowledge, that the blessed work of
these two good and gifted men was executed.
Some account of the first version in Scotch Gaelic of the Old Testa-
ment, with the interesting episode of the connexion therewith of the Rev.
Dr John Smith, of Campbelton, and the completion of the Society's
labours in their noble edition of 1826, will furnish materials for another
paper on this subject.
DONALD MASSON, M.A., M.D.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 103
B R A H A N OF STEEDS.
Song on the Earl of Seaforth.
(Translated from the Gaelic. )
Steed-famed Brahan Well-known, of my footsteps the throne !
Well-known haunt of the slender-limbed herd !
There thy bannered stag's-head, in thy need is broad spread,
Thou chief of the rich chequered shields !
May thy fame still increase, to thy footsteps be peace,
Seaforth — thy late sounding title —
Let the halls of thy Court re-echo the sport,
And the song of thy clansmen and revel.
From thy silver-cupped board in abundance still poured —
Drink of various kinds might be named —
There was rum, porter, and beer, wine, brandy, good cheer —
With courage to fire thy young men.
Thy hall of a night e'en a duke would delight ;
When are met there the cunning musicians,
And the sun out of sight, with its strings stretched tight
The harp pours its music delicious.
Fran.k and pleasant wast thou to high and to low ;
Strong-limbed, stout, manly and gentle ;
Their support in thy might, free from backbiting spite ;
To thee was deceit ever hateful.
With our chief loved so well, rise we sons of Kintail,
From the foe oft for him won AVC honour ;
Maclennans the glorious, in battle victorious,
Courageous, commanding in valour.
With thee rise to the work sons of " Murchadh-nan-Corc,"
Whom terror could never restrain ;
Youths in beauty's bloom blush, in their green strength they rush
Unchecked by appeal in their fury.
When the pikes are drawn rife, ready, keen for the strife,
Lopped limbs and heads gashed wide they scatter,
Source of deepest delight at thy back standing tight,
Sons of Roderick of Farabairn Tower.
To their arms swiftly take the Macraes for thy sake,
Who to battle rage roused never tremble ;
Mark them ! generous and deft, of their calmness not reft,
Rushing on red-hot in their thunder.
When fiercely they stride, huddled close side by side,
Heads are seen carved with wounds gaping ghastly,
And their heel's on the foe, tumbled breatnless below
By the play of the men of the back- stroke.
104 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
To thy side flock together Clan Donald of the heather ;
Macleods to a man in their anger ;
And from Assynt-the-North pour but gentlemen forth ;
With thee stirs no tattered Catlander.
Macintoshes right brave, well-equipped armies gave,
Their bannered tailed cat streaming broadly ;
Clan-Chatan pike-bearing in battle-strife shearing,
To their knees bring submissive the red-coats.
In his pomp comes so proud, Earl of " Cromba " from Leod,
From his ancient and surge-beaten tower ;
With his handsome array, ordered well for the fray,
Raging stags with their antlers bare-chafing.
When thy back-sword with speed is unsheathed in thy need,
Swift, manly and free they'd encounter,
Till, in tumult and rout, wheels the foe right-about,
Hot pursued by the victors swift-stepping.
In thy retinue came the Macleans of great fame,
Stout-limbed with the hue of the hunter ;
Their muskets bright beaming, and burnished swords gleaming,
And lances the back-stroke to parry.
On the grassy sward green, where they tread, May be seen
Corses gory in death grim distorted ;
Swiftly dashing in strife where the danger is rife,
The heroes in Scotch garb undaunted.
In the Court of thy peers, one more honoured none hears,
Nor useless concealed is thy wisdom ;
Calmly bold and with grace, keen discussing each case,
Standing true on the side of the Scotsman.
To thy kinsmen a crown, great chief of renown !
Encamp with thee striplings deft-handed ;
And brave youths with a will to the conflict rush still,
When aloft streams the stag's-head thy standard.
In the grasp of thy might was thy clan-land held tight,
In despite of the champions red coated ;
Ammunition in plenty, trim muskets, swords dainty,
Over kilts thickly plaited — these hadst thou.
To thy skill in the field, is the foe forced to yield,
Thy might and thy valour erincing — r. ,
Bear my fond regards flashing, over Conon swift dasl^ing,
To Brahan, fair silver-cupped Brahan.
GLASGOW. FINLAY MACRAE,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 105
HACO, THE DANE, OR THE PRINCE'S WOOING.
A TRUE ROMANCE OF LOCH-MAREE, IN THREE PARTS.
By J. E. MUDDOCK, author of "A Wingless Angel," " As the Shadows
Fall" " Lovat, or Out in 'the '45," fa, fa
PART III. (AND CONCLUSION) — REVENGE.
ALTHOUGH terribly wounded, and utterly prostrated through loss of blood,
Prince Haco still lived, and in about an hour's time he recovered con-
sciousness. The moon was sinking below the horizon, but the stars still
looked down coldly and silently on the wild and savage region. A gentle
breeze blew across the loch and broke its surface into wavelets that
skipped and danced in the weird gleame of the pale light, and beat the
shore in a strange melody of sadness. For a considerable time Haco was
at a loss to understand or realise his position. His brain was dazed and
muddled. He was lying upon his back, and his left arm was swollen
and stiff, while a gaping wound showed itself in the fleshy part of the
neck on the right side. All around him was a gory pool, and his pallid
and death-like features were splashed with clots of blood. His hair was
matted and hung in wild disorder about his face, and his dress was so
gashed and torn that it hung in shreds from his body.
Bad as the wounds of the young prince were, however, they had not
penetrated to any vital part. And the life that had been so nearly going
out slowly returned, and very gradually the incidents of the night dawned
upon him, and he remembered how he had met and fought the terrible
Red Hector of the Hills. The Prince groaned. Despair, rage, and pain
were mingled, and to add to his misery he was consumed by a burning
thirst. His tongue seemed too large for his mouth, and his lips were
puffed and cracked. That horrible thirst was unendurable. He heard
the wash of the water on the stone at the edge of the loch, and it seemed
to mock him. With the desperate energy of despair he partly raised him-
self, and through the blood-like mists that had gathered before his
dimmed eyes, he gazed across the rippling waters to where in the purple
shadows the Isle Maree lay.
" Ah, my beloved ! " he murmured in his agony, " is it to be that we
are never to meet again 1 Is there no good spirit will whisper to you
now, and tell you that your lover lies wounded unto death? Oh, for
your gentle hand to bind up my wounds, and to moisten my parched and
burning throat. Tnyra, Thyra, my beloved !" he cried.
His words were echoed by the mountains as if in mockery, and then
there was silence again. Then the wounded man made another desperate
effort to rise, and to drag himself down to the edge of the water. The
exertion caused the blood to gush forth from his wounds again, but better
to bleed to death, he thought, than suffer the unutterable agony of thirst.
Despair and suffering lent him strength, and he was enabled to crawl
along the ground half a yard or so at a time. He persevered and slowly
and painfully worked his way down until the water was reached. Then
106 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
he almost fainted from the joy of having succeeded. He got his face close
to the water and he dashed the cold and refreshing fluid into his mouth
and throat. It was nectar — it was more, it was life ! At that moment
the draught of water was worth a king's ransom. Prince Haco laved
himself in the precious fluid and drank of it until he seemed to grow
strong and whole again. The senses were deluded, however, for when he
attempted to stand up he found himself as helpless as a babe but newly
born. Dragging himself beneath the shelter of a boulder, he sank down
prone upon the earth, and there stole upon him a horrible and unutterable
sense of loneliness. He knew that not far off there were those who
would have sacrificed their own lives to save his ; but no hand was near
to minister to his dire needs, and he must perforce die for want of
assistance.
Insensibility came upon him again, and there was a long^blank. The
night grew old. Down sank the moon, leaving the loch wrapped in one
great impenetrable shadow, out of which came the voice of the waters, and
occasionally the mournful cry of some sea bird. Gradually the darkness
commenced to break in the east. A cold grey succeeded the blackness,
and this in turn gave place to warm flush, rosy at first until it deepened
to crimson, and soon the mighty sun came in a glory of gold and red, and
with his shafts of fire he smote old Slioch and the surrounding hills
until they were burnished into a resplendent brightness.
The freshness of the morning air, and the warm rays of the rising sun
had a stimulating effect on Prince Haco, who had lain all night under the
starlit canopy of heaven while Death and Life wrestled for him. He
opened his heavy eyes, and though weakness and loss of blood had
brought on delirium, there was one name that rang in his dazed brain,
and that name shaped itself on his lips — it was the name of Thyra.
It so happened that on this particular morning — and by one of these
strange chances which often induce one to think that Fate is something
more than a name — two monks were despatched from Isle Maree on a
special mission to one of the religious houses on the mainland. They
landed at the usual landing-place, which was close to where the Prince
was lying. Then their attention was attracted by a deep groan of pain,
and but for this they might have passed on without observing him, but
now as they saw the wounded man they uttered a cry of alarm and hurried
forward to instantly recognise Haco, the Dane, in the death-pale and
blood-stained man who Avas stretched amongst the ferns. The two monks
held a hurried consultation, and then decided to convey the Prince to the
island as speedily as possible, where he would have the advantage of the
wonderful skill of the Father Superior, whose fame aft a leach had spread
throughout the country ; and in addition to this tlic gentle Princess could
nurse him, and the holy men were there to shrive him if his end ap-
proached.
Actuated by these considerations the men raised the Prince between
them, and carried him to their boat. Then they rowed quickly back to
the island. The news, of course, soon spread, and as soon as the Princess
Thyra heard it she flew at once to the presence of her lover unrestrained
by the remonstrances of the Father Superior. She forgot every thing else
in the one all absorbing thought that he who was dearer to her than life
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 107
was lying stricken well nigh unto death, and that it was her duty to tend
and watch him, and win him back to health and strength again, if that
were possible.
Ah ! how very gentle she was. At first she wept until her little eyes
grew red ; but this was a very natural and pardonable womanly weakness.
She grew calmer in a little while, for she recognised her duty, and nobly
and bravely did she do it. For weeks the Prince tossed and raved in the
delirium of a dreadful fever, the result of his wounds, and the exposure
he had endured. But watching over him like a ministering angel was the
gentle girl who tried to anticipate his every want.
At length her care and attention Avas rewarded, for the fire of the
fever died out, and Haco's wounds commenced to heal. For weeks he
had lain all unconscious of her presence, but now as he learned all, and
recognised who his gentle nurse had been, he could only fold her in his
arms and weep for very joy.
From that moment he made rapid progress towards recovery. The
favourable turn having once set in, it was not long ere he was enabled to
get about.
The news of the duel had, of course, spread throughout the country,
and the Prince's followers had made a vow to take Eed Hector of the
Hills and put him to the torture. But they reckoned without their host.
Hector was too old a fox to be caught napping, and he was too well
acquainted with his native mountains not to be able to find shelter from
his pursuers. At any rate none of those who sought him were able to
find any trace of him. He had disappeared as effectually as if he had
sunk into the dark depths of the loch. What had become of him was a
mystery to all, save, perhaps, his own immediate followers. And as time
wore on, and not the slightest clue to his whereabouts could be got, a
belief gained ground that he was dead.
Day by day Prince Haco grew stronger. His wounds had quite healed,
and little or no trace of the terrible illness through which he had passed
remained. He still lingered on the island, although he was repeatedly
urged, nay commanded, to return home to his own country. But love
was a stronger power than any other that could be brought to bear ; and
no man could have loved more truly, more honourably, or more devotedly
than he. Perhaps it was a foolish love, but when was love ever wise ?
When did it ever run smoothly ? In the case of this young couple it was
destined to lead them into destruction.
One morning as the lovers walked in the little garden attached to the
monastery, the Princess said, " Yesterday a special messenger brought me
bad news."
" Indeed !" the Prince exclaimed, as a flush of excitement came into
his pale face. "'Bad news ! nay, I hope, my beloved that you have been
misinformed. But tell me what is this news?"
" I am summoned to proceed to Ireland without a moment's loss of
time, as my father lies at death's door."
" That is bad, indeed," was the sorrowful rejoinder. " And when do
you purpose leaving1?" he asked after a pause.
" To-morrow, an' the wind hold fair."
" To-morrow!" the Prince echoed, then sank into a gloomy silence •
108 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
but suddenly he stopped in his walk, and looking the Princess full in the
face, he said, " And how long do you intend to be absent?"
" Alas ! I cannot tell that."
" But you will return?" he asked anxiously and excitedly.
" Yes."
" You will promise me this?"
" Yes."
" As you hope that your immortal soul may be saved ?"
" As I hope that my immortal soul may be saved," she answered a
little sadly, as though the implied doubt had stung her.
When the hour of parting came, Prince Haco did not exhibit any
great outward sorrow, but it needed no very keen observer to see that he
was moved deeply. He accompanied his betrothed on board the galley
that was to convey her down the loch, and when he took leave of her at
the mouth of the river he caught both her hands in his, and peering into
the wondrous depths of her blue eyes, he said with passionate earnestness —
" Princess, you take my heart with you. By the God we both
worship, I conjure you, use it well; and if you would have me live,
come back soon."
" Lose not faith in me," she answered, as the tears blinded her, and
her bosom throbbed with the wild emotion she tried so hard to suppress.
" Only one thing shall ever prevent my returning."
" And that is — " Haco interrupted impatiently. " Death."
Their farewell was a long and sad one, and then they parted. A fair
wind was blowing, and soon the galley sailed out of sight ; and then, with
a heavy heart, Prince Haco ordered his men to row him back to the
island, where he intended to reside until the Princess came back. In the
course of a week or two the poignancy of his grief had worn itself out,
and being now perfectly restored to health, he once more indulged in the
sport and excitement of the chase, although he never went out now with-
out being accompanied by a strong and well-armed retinue.
One day as he and his followers were returning from the White
Mountains, where they had been hunting, an old man suddenly placed
himself in their path. Peremptorily and rudely he was ordered to move
out of their way, but the Prince's good nature prompted him at once to
ride forward and address the man.
" Who are you, and whence came you my good fellow?"
" Alas, your highness, I am a homeless wanderer. A warrior has
carried off my cattle. My only son was killed the other day while climb-
ing yon broken crag in search of a lost sheep, and the sight of the boy's
mangled body drove my poor old wife raving mad, and she drowned her-
self in the loch.
" A sad story, truly," sighed the Prince ; then turning to one of his
followers, he ordered him to give the old man substantial alms.
Drawing himself up, however, with pride and dignity, the man re-
plied with great scorn, " Prince, I am no beggar."
" What dost thou seek, then ?"
" To be allowed to enter your highness's service."
" Well, thou art modest, at least," cried the Prince, as he laughed heartily ;
" but what canst thou do? Thou art old and weak, and all but useless."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 109
The man's face grew red, and it almost seemed as if fire came out of
his eyes as he clutched a staif he was carrying with a vice-like grip, and
the muscles of his arms stood out like cords.
" Useless," he echoed, then softening his tone, and changing his man-
ner, he continued, " Pray, mock me not, your highness ; there is life and
vigour yet in these limbs, as your highness shall discover an' you will but
engage me."
" An' I do this, wilt thou prove faithful ?"
" Aye."
" And never forget the kindness I do thee ? "
Something like a sneer of bitterness came into the man's face as he
made answer and said —
" Eonald Macleod never yet forgot a kindness, as he never yet forgave
an injury."
" Come, thou art engaged, then," cried the Prince, laughingly, " I see
there is fire in thee yet."
" Fire," the man hissed with strange energy, " fire ! aye, if thou didst
but know how I burn for revenge."
" Eevenge !" echoed the Prince and several of his followers in astonish-
ment.
" Is it so strange that an old man should be desirous of revenging a
great wrong 1 "
" "Wrong, and against whom?" asked the Prince.
" No matter," was the almost sullen answer. " A sleeping memory
has been aroused, and for a moment I forgot myself. When shall I
enter your highness's service1?"
" To-morrow, and it please thee."
" To-morrow it shall be," the man returned, as he bowed and moved
on one side, and the Prince and his suit moved on.
" There is something in that fellow that does not please me, Prince,"
one of the suite remarked, as they got out of the man's hearing.
"Tut, man, thou art full of strange whims and fancies. I will
warrant me the rascal is honest enough," the Prince answered.
" I pray heaven that it is so," the speaker remarked as if to himself.
At noon on the following day Eonald made his appearance on the
island, and the Prince at once appointed him to a position of some trust,
and so much desire did the man display to please his new master that the
Prince was drawn towards him, and in a very short time had become at-
tached to him.
Three months passed, and then the Prince commenced to weary for
the return of his affianced. He had had no word from her since she went
away, and he became a little anxious and troubled. He had stationed
some of his servants at Poolewe, with instructions that when they espied
the vessels of the Princess they were to despatch a mounted courier to
him instantly with the news. Day after day went by until suspense had
become almost unbearable ; but at length the courier arrived, with the
joyful intelligence that three vessels were in sight, and the leader of them
bore the royal flag of Ireland.
The Prince was elated and excited in a more than ordinary degree,
and he was about to issue orders that a reception should be organised
110 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
that would do honour to his noble bride. But at this moment Ronald
crept up to him, and whispered —
" Master, I am strangely troubled, and I pray you give me a few
minutes that I may get speech with you."
" Not now, Ronald ; not now. Thou shouldst not speak oi trouble
at such a time as this, but joy, and only joy."
" Nay, master of mine, I must speak. It is to your highness's interest
that I should do so."
There was something so earnest, so impressing in the man's tone that
the Prince looked at him in astonishment, and then said —
" If what thou hast to say is so serious, I will give thee two minutes ;
two minutes, remember, and not a second longer."
He turned aside with Ronald, and when they were alone, Ronald
said — " I have had a dream "
" Tut, man," interrupted the Prince petulantly, " is it for this only
that thou wouldst waste my time."
" Be not so fast, master. I have dreamed my dream three nights
running, and by the heavens above us there is truth in dreams. Nay,
turn not away, but listen. What wouldst thou do an' thy lady-love
were dead?"
The Prince started and turned ghastly pale, and his lip quivered as
though a current of electricity was passing through it, he stammered —
" Dead ! What do you mean?"
" I ask what wouldst thou do an' she were dead ?"
" Rascal, why dost thou torture me by even daring to ask such a
question?"
" Nay, be not angry ; I cannot help my dream."
" Help thy dream," the Prince cried, while his face was pale even to
a shyness.
" Aye, thrice have I dreamed that she was dead, and I fear me that
my dream is prophetic."
For some minutes the Prince was silent ; he seemed to be struggling
with some terrible emotion that almost overpowered him, but at last, in a
hollow voice, he said —
" Why hast thou told me this? Why hast thou dared to cloud the
sunshine of my joy ?"
" Dared !" Ronald echoed, while his whole manner seemed to change,
and a look of fierce pleasure came into his face, although it escaped the
notice of the Prince, who was deeply absorbed in his own reflections.
" There is nothing under heaven I would not dare — " Then he checked
himself suddenly, and said, " An' this dream should be true "
" An' it should be true," the Prince cried, " an' it should be true, I
would plunge this dagger into my own heart." He drew a jewelled
poignard from its sheath at his girdle as he spoke ; but thrusting it back
again with impatience and anger, he said, " Ronald, thou art a fool and a
knave." He was striding away, but suddenly turned, and as if ashamed
of having spoken so sharply, he remarked, " I forgot myself. I should
not allow the babble of an old man to disturb me. Pardon me, Ronald ;
I have been hasty."
" But if it should be true ?" Ronald asked with strange emphasis.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. Ill
" 'But?' Why dost tliou torture me with ' But?' It cannot be."
" Cannot it ? Nay, who can tell ? "
" Eonald, dost thou wish to drive me mad ? I feel almost as if I
could strike thee to the earth for having dared to torture me by telling
me thy idiotic dream. By the holy Virgin thou hast made me unhappy,
and I shall need the priestly consolations of the good Father Superior to
enable me to endure the dreadful suspense until I am assured that my
beloved Princess is well."
" I have a plan, an' your highness approves of it."
"What is it? Speak."
" I will go out and meet the vessels."
" Well, well ; and what then ?"
" As soon as we enter the loch, I will, if the Princess is well, hoist a
red flag, which thou wilt be able to see if thou wilt mount to the tower
of the monastery."
" That is a good idea ; but if she should not be well, what then?"
" If she should be dead," Ronald replied in a strange tone, while he
seemed to glare on the unfortunate Prince, " If she should be dead, a black
flag shall float from the peak."
" Go then," answered the Prince, trying hard to restrain the feeling of
nervous trepidation that had, in spite of himself, seized him, " but re-
member that the black flag would be the signal for my death. I could
not live without her." He turned away and went into the monastery;
and then, with a step that had in it the lightness and fleetness of a young
man rather than that of an old one, Eonald hurried down to the boat
that was moored to a rock. With lusty and vigorous strokes of the oars
he pulled himself clear of the island, and in a few minutes more was lost
to sight.
Hours passed away. The night closed in. A restless, weary night it
was to the Prince. Hope and fear alternated in his breast, and suspense
almost drove him mad. When the sun rose he mounted to the top of the
tower, but he found that the range of vision was very circumscribed,
owing to the other islands ; and so he ordered two of the monks to row
him to the opposite shore, where he scaled a high peak, and waited
in breathless anxiety. Presently a speck was visible in the far off blue
distance looking towards the sea. The speck gradually grew larger, until
it assumed the shape of a vessel. A flag was flying at the peak, but as
yet it was impossible to make out its colour. The Prince's head throbbed
wildly with the fever of excitement, and he strained his eyes until they
ached. The vessel drew nearer, and then the blood rushed back frozen
upon the Prince's heart as he saw that the flag was black.
When Eonald had gat out of sight of the island he pulled a powerful
and long stroke that was 'not at all compatible with his aged appearance.
His little boat flew over the water, and he was enabled to meet the vessel
of the Princess soon after she and her suite had embarked on board at the
mouth of the loch. Making his way to where the Princess stood radiant
with health and happiness, and anticipating the pleasure of the meeting
with her lover, he bowed low and said —
" Madam, I come as a messenger from Prince Haco."
" Ah ! welcome, doubly welcome ; and how fares my lord ? tell me
quickly."
112 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
" He is well, lady."
" Bless thee for that news," cried the delighted girl ; " thou shalt
have gold for it. " And tell me — and be not niggard of thy speech, man
— tell me is he impatient for my coming."
" Aye, indeed, lady ; and so anxious was he to be assured of your
highness's health that he bade me hoist a red flag an' thou wast well, but
if thou wert not well a black flag was to fly at the peak."
" Dear, dear Haco," the happy girl murmured to herself.
" I have a plan, your highness, whereby we may have some sport,"
Ronald observed artfully, " as well as test the devotion of thy lover."
" Indeed, and what is that, good friend ?"
" Hoist up the black flag."
" Nay, that would be cruel," exclaimed the Princess with a little laugh.
" Not cruel, your highness, since it would prove to you how strong is
the Prince's love."
The Princess considered for some moments, and a smile lighted up her
beautiful features. Her woman's vanity was tickled, and she was tempted
to put her lover's affection to the test. Ronald, who had watched her as
a hawk that watches its prey, saw that she hesitated, and urged her so
strongly that at last she gave orders that the red flag which was then
flying should be hauled down and a black one run up. The captain was
puzzled by this, but he had no alternative but to obey, although he
thought the whim a strange one. As the sombre folds of the flag floated
out on the breeze a smile of intense satisfaction came into Ronald's face.
As the vessel neared the island the Princess felt great difficulty in re-
straining her impatience, and her heart bounded with joy as she heard the
wooden anchor splash into the waters as the galley was brought up under
the lea of Isle Maree. But, alas ! that joy was soon to be turned to
sorrow. She ordered the boat to be manned, and then stepping in she
bade the rowers row quickly. As soon as ever the boat touched the
strand she sprang out and was met by the Father Superior.
" And where is the Prince?" she cried, all surprised to find that he
Avas not there.
" Thou shalt know, my child, directly," was the answer.
" But why comes he not to meet me ? Is he well ?"
" We trust, daughter, that he is well."
There was something in the man's tone that alarmed her, so that the
colour fled from her face ; and turning upon him quickly, she demanded —
" What has happened ? For the love of heaven if anything is Avrong
keep it not from me ; and that something is Avrong I gather by thy tone."
" Alas, daughter, that it should be my duty to tell thee the bad neAvs."
" Bad neAvs," she gasped in a holloAV Avhisper. " Lives he, or is he
dead?"
" Have courage, my child, and may the Mother of Jesus guard thee.
Thy lover has slain himself. God rest his soul" The holy father told
his beads, and Avith a wild cry of heartbreaking despair Princess Thyra
threAV up her arms and fell prone upon the earth.
Ronald and some of the men from the boat raised her, and by the in-
structions of the holy father bore her to the monastery. All day long she
lay as one in a trance, but toAvards the night she recovered her senses.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 113
Then she demanded to know how the Prince had died, and very reluctantly
she was informed that seeing a black flag flying, he, under the belief that
she was dead, plunged a dagger into his heart. For a little time the
reason of the Princess seemed shattered, but at length an unnatural calm-
ness came upon her, and she asked to see the body. At first this request
was refused, as it was feared that the sight would really affect her to
madness ; but she vowed that she would see it come what may, and so
the Father Superior offered to go to the room where the Prince's bodyjlay.
" I pray thee, in the name of the Virgin, leave me," she said when
the room was reached. " I would be alone for a few minutes with my
dead lover."
The father hesitated for some little time, for he was afraid to leave
her ; but she at last commanded him to go, and he said —
" Wilt thou promise solemnly thou wilt not harm thyself?"
" Yes."
" Then I will give thee fifteen minutes."
When the Princess was alone she turned towards where the Prince's
body lay on a low truckle bed. Lights were burning at the head and
foot of the bed, and the body was covered with a sheet. The wretched
girl tottered across the room, and with trembling hand drew the sheet
from the ghastly face. Then with a sob that told how terrible
was her agony, she bent down and placed her lips to the forehead of this
too faithful lover, and so great was her grief that even tears refused to
flow. Presently she was startled by these words, which were hissed into
her ear —
"Kevenge is sweet."
She raised herself up, and turned quickly round, and before her stood
Ronald, but no longer bent with seeming age. He was straight and
powerful looking now, and his face was horrible in its expression of un-
utterable hatred.
" Ronald Villain, this is thy doing," she faltered, as she put
her hand to her throat, for a sensation of choking had come there. The
room swam before her eyes, and she leaned heavily against the bed.
A hard, cruel, almost demoniacal smile played about the man's mouth
as he answered —
" My name is not Ronald."
" Who art thou, then?" she gasped, like one in a dream.
" Red Hector ^of the^Hills," he hissed. " I told him that I never yet
forgave aiynjtiry. I amjfally revenged IIOAV."
Tho Princess Thyra wttered a gurgling cry, and reeling round as
though a bullet had suddenly gone through her heart, she fell across the
body of her lover.
When the holy father returned Hector had fled, and the Princess was
motionless. In wild alarm the good man raised her up but only to find
that her pain had ended, and she had joined her lover in the world
that lies beyond the grave.
Two graves were dug adjoining each other, and the ill-starred Prince
and Princess were laid head to head. On the slab that covered his grave
the monks carved a runic cross, and on her's a crucifix.
From that night Hector of the Hills disappeared, and no one knew
i
114. THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
where he had gone to, but some months afterwards a body was found
floating in Loch Rosque, at the other end of the gloomy Glen Docherty,
and that body was recognised as Hector of the Hills, Retribution had
overtaken him, but how he came to be drowned was never known.
Eeader, if ever it is your good fortune to be in the sternly grand, and
wildly magnificent region of Loch Maree fail not to visit the little gem-
like island known as Isle Maree. Tread reverently, and muse awhile
amidst those solemn memorials of the past age (when this wonderful dis-
trict was peopled only by warring clans), the time-worn stones that mark
the graves of the sleepers long long forgotten. In the very centre of the
island two slabs are placed flat and end together. On the one is a beauti-
ful runic cross, and on the other an exquisitely carved crucifix. Uncover
your head and keep silent while the summer breeze, as it whispers amongst
the branches overhead, tells you the story of the faithful lovers — the un-
fortunate Danish Prince and Irish Princess — who sleep so peacefully now
in that little island solitude, and who loved each other so well in life that
death could not divide them.
THE HIGHLANDER NEWSPAPER— In our last issue we pro-
mised to discuss in this number the causes which led to the then unfor-
tunate position of the Highlander. Our principal object was to indicate
that the upholding of the Highlander newspaper was not the hopeless
enterprise the apparent fate of the special organ of Highlanders seemed to
point, to. The management was most undoubtedly at fault, otherwise
the extensive circulation which, to our certain knowledge, the paper had
acquired would have secured for it financial success. Now that it has
got into the hands of one man, who, with almost superhuman efforts, is
heroically carrying it on, apparently, against the combined efforts of the
Fates, we hope to see the concern succeeding in Mr Murdoch's hands
to the extent which his indomitable perseverance and faith in the cause
of his Highland countrymen deserve. This result will be accepted by us
as the best possible proof of the correctness of the opinion we had formed.
In these circumstances it is unnecessary that we should at present go
into details.
THE SCOTTISH CELTIC EEVIEW.—Xbis is the title of ;i new
Celtic periodical which the Uev. Alexander ("ann-roti, Brodick, is arrang-
ing to bring out quarterly as soon as a sufficient number of subscribers is
secured to justify him in doing so. Mr Cameron is one of our very best
Celtic scholars, and we wish himself and his new quarterly every possible
success. We are by no means afraid of him. On the contrary we
welcome him with genuine pleasure. While we shall pay every possible
deference and respect to our big brother, our older though smaller selves
are now so well acquainted with the nooks and crannies of existence that
we have no fear whatever that this heavier, and probably more dignified
member of the Celtic family will ever overtake us or do us any harm.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 115
FIRST HIGHLAND PARLIAMENT-MEETING IN GLASGOW.
0 ' ' '
A MEETING of delegates from the various Celtic Societies favourable to the formation
of a Federal union was held in the Bath Street Assembly Booms, Glasgow, on the even-
ing of Wednesday, the 28th November. There was a good attendance of the general
public, all of whom seemed to take a deep interest in the proceedings.
Councillor MACKENZIE, Inverness, moved that Bailie MACDONALD, Aberdeen,
take the chair, which he did, and thanked them for the great honour they had conferred
upon him in asking him to preside at the inauguration of the Federation of Celtic
Societies. (Applause.) He hoped this Federation would be worthy of their country, of
themselves, and for the future good of Highlanders generally. (Applause.) They were
often accused of being divided among themselves, but he hoped that henceforward they
would be able to show to the world that they had the old spirit still remaining and
would still stand " shoulder to shoulder," and act as one man for the good of the High-
lands and Highlanders. (Applause.) He trusted that they would not fall out by the
way, but that the proceedings would be marked by a uaanimity and goodwill worthy of
themselves and the cause which had brought them together. (Applause.)
Mr ALEX. MACKENZIE, of the Celtic Magazine, provisional secretary, reported the
various steps he had taken to bring the various Celtic Associations together, and
and other matters regarding the Federation. He read a list of the various Asso-
ciations who had agreed to join the Federation, when it was found that the following
Associations had sent delegates to the meeting:— Gaelic Society of London, Mr Colin
Chisholm ; Gaelic Society of Inverness, Mr Alex. Mackenzie ; Aberdeen Highland Asso-
ciation, Bailie Macdonald ; Hebburn Celtic Society, Mr W. Matheson ; Edinburgh Uni-
versity Celtic Society, Mr D. Munro Fraser ; Greenock Highland Society, Messrs Neil
Brown, S. Nicholson, and Hugh Mackay ; Greenock Ossianic Club, Mr Orr ; Tobermory
Gaelic Society, Mr H. Mackinnon. The following Glasgow Associations were repre-
sented :— Comunn Cfaidhealach, Messrs J. G. Mackay and H. Whyte ; Skye, Messrs C.
M. Ramsay, secretary, and A. W. Macleod ; Islay, Messrs M. Smith and Nigel Macneill ;
Sutherland, Messrs W. M. Sutherland, president, andJA. Sutherland, secretary ; Cowal,
Messrs Macgregor and Mackellar ; Lewis, Messrs Angus Nicholson and M. Macdonald ;
Lewis (Literary), Messrs A. Macdougall and D. Macleod ; Tir nam Beann, Mr D. Mac-
pherson ; Mull, Messrs Mackinnon and Macdonald ; Ardnamurchan, Messrs H. C.
Gillies and J. Macdonald ; Gael Lodge of Free Masons, (609), Brothers A. Nicholson and
Duncan Sharp; Fardach Fhinn, I.O.G.T., Brothers D. Maepherson and Nicholson;
Comunn Gaidhlig Eaglais Chaluim Chille, Messrs A. MacEachnie and P. C. Macfarlane.
The Birmingham Celtic Society were unable to send delegates to the meeting, but ex-
pressed their adhesion to the Federation.
Letters of apology for unavoidable absence were read frosa Mr John Mackay, C.E.,
Swansea, and Mr John Murdoch, Inverness.
Bailie MACDONALD then moved the first resolution as follows :— " That the High-
land Societies which have delegated specially accredited representatives to this meeting
resolve to form themselves into a Federation to be called ' The Federation of Celtic
Societies.'" He said the resolution was so plainjthat it required nothing to be said re
garding it, and he simply moved its adoption.
Mr NEIL BROWN, Greenock, in seconding the motion, said he was not one of those
who would like to go to extremes on this Highland question. While he considered that
every effort should be used to elevate and improve the condition of the Highlanders he
would not like to gee the Highlands covered over again with poor crofters. It would
have been a wise and a prudent poliey to have preserved the Highland peasantry when
they had them. Had that been done the country would not have witnessed the humi-
liating spectacle that Britain presented when she was under the necessity of drafting
Hindoos to show the world that she was in possession of soldiers— (loud applause) —thus
testifying to the significant fact that by carelessness — not t« use a stronger term — she
had allowed the best nursery of soldiers— nay, he should say of men— that ever existed
to be destroysd. (Renewed applause.) She had permitted those who had carried the
116 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
British flag over many a hard and bloody field, to be evicted or expatriated from their
native land, in order that their beautiful glens and adamantine snow-clad mountains,
might be converted into game preserves, to afford sport to strangers, ignorant alike of
the habits, language, and nature of the Gael. (Loud applause.) He held that this dis-
astrous policy having been acted upon, he would not like to see his countrymen induced
to remain in the Highlands as poor crofters, unless some industries were opened up to
give scope to their ambition, and prove worthy of their intelligence and race. (Hear,
hear.) It was all very well at one time, when all their associations for many generations
were connected with certain localities. (Applause.) A sacrifice was then often made to
perpetuate the unbraken line. But those patriarchal links were severed, and the High-
lander of to-day took his place in the race of business, or trade, or anything else where
he was as able to compete from his mental capacity as any other. (Applause.) Perhaps
the history of the world did not furnish an analogous case to that of the Highlanders
while they were tyrannised over, ill-used, rack-rented, and finally expatriated, not a
single powerful voice was raised in their behalf — not a single combination was formed
for their protection. (Applause.) They found their natural protectors, the descendants
of their chieftains, their greatest foes, and with shame and humiliation let the state-
ment he made that the ministers of religion, with the exception of a few cases, did not
show themselves the faithful shepherds who would die f»r their Socks. In one word
the Gaels were left friendless, and the descendants of those who had fought and con-
quered for Britain in every quarter of the world were often obliged to erect miserable
tents on she sea-shore and in the churchyard. (Applause.) A paternal government
should not have permitted this, but if the vengence of the Almighty was slow it was
likewise certain. For this reason he would not like to see tha Highlands repeopled un-
less for the benefit of the Highlanders and not for the benefit of a Government that had
used them carelessly if not cruelly. He had great pleasure in seconding the motion,
and hoped the Federation would meet with every encouragement from the various
Societies. (Loud applause.) The resolution was carried unanimously.
Mr ALEXANDER MACKENZIE of the Cdtic Magazine, representing the Gaelic Society
of Inverness, moved the next resolution, as follows : — " That the object of the Federa-
tion be the preservation of the Gaelic language and literature ; the encouragement of
Celtic education in schools and colleges ; and generally the promotion of the interests
of Highlanders in accordance with the spirit and constitution of the affiliated societies."
Mr Mackenzie thought this a very judicious and wise resolution, and he had much plea-
sure in moving its adoption. (Cheers.) Highlanders worthy of the name would never
differ as to the necessity of preserving the language and literature of their ancestors.
(Applause.) Nor, he hoped, the desirability of encouraging Celtic education in our
schools and colleges. (Cheers.) Such a resolution was also most opportune, for an elec-
tion of School Boards would soon take place — in March or April next — throughout all
Scotland, and he trusted this Federation would consider it their first duty to bring in-
fluence to bear upon every candidate for a School Board in .the Highlands, in favour of
teaching Gaelic in the schools, and so take advantage of the concession made by the
Educati«n Department last year to have Gaelic teaching conducted during ordinary school
hours, if the respective School Boards so desired, and have the same paid for out of th«
ordinary school rates. (Cheers.) Some people said this was no real concession at all, and
lie agreed with them so far, that it was not very material unless the School Boards did
their duty, but the School Boards were elective bodies, and would have to do what their
constituencies demanded of them, and he hoped, indeed he had no doubt at all on the
subject, that every candidate would be asked the question, Would he support the Teack-
ing of Gaelic in the Schools under his board? and an answer obtained in the affirmative
before any Highlander consented to extend him his support. (Applause.) To see that
this was done throughout the Highlands at the forthcoming election would be one of the
most important duties of the Celtic Parliament during tuo first your of its existence,
and a most important duty it was. (Cheers.) He waAfl^^^lpcd to do his duty in the
Highland Capital — (cheers)— and he trusted they would extend him all their influence
to get a teacher of Gaelic reinstated in the Royal Academy of i i accordance
with its original constitution. (Applause.) For sever. ., had a Gaelic teacher in
that Institution — one of the most brilliant ornament; id tlion in the room,
representing the Edinburgh University Celtic Society 1>..vid Munro Fraser, —
(loud cheers)— who not only carried everything before him at Inverness, but also iu the
University of Edinburgh, and of whom all Highlanders had occasion to be proud— (loud
applause) — as one who would yet shed lustre on his native Highlands, and its principal
Seminary. (Cheers.) They should also, in every possible manner, aid those who were
engaged in preserving the literary gems still to be found with our old men and women
in the valleys and straths of the Highlands. (Hear, hear.) Most of those engaged in
that work were — perhaps carrying one characteristic of the case too far — too proud to
ask for assistance, but that was one reason why such a federation as they had now
formed should extend their support all the more ; and they could do it by their recom-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 117
mendations and influence without taking any financial risk whatever. See how they
could recommend and otherwise support that splendid work now being performed, at
great risk and expense, by Mr Archibald Sinclair. (Loud applause.) His "Oranaiche"
was, out sight, the best value in every respect which ever issued from the Gaelic press.
(Cheers.) They should and must support such men and such work. (Cheers.) They
should also encourage struggling bards who had the genuine spark in them, and some
such still existed amongst us. (Hear, hear.) He would say nothing about his own work
—he never could beg (applause), but he was nevertheless always grateful for such sup-
port as could fairly be expected, and for which he always tried to give value. (Cheers.) If
he did not do so he felt he had no right to expect their aid. (Hear, hear.) He would say
nothing about the last clause of the resolution, except that it seemed to him to have been,
very wisely drawn up. It was very comprehensive. The most rabid politician amongst
them could under it introduce any subject for their consideration, without going out-
side the Constitution, and could carry it if it were founded on reason and common sense.
He would, however, require to convince the majority that it was so, and he (Mr M.) had
any amount of faith in the majority of such men as were appointed representatives on
this occasion. This clause in the resolution was quite satisfactory to moderate men like
himself — (laughter) —who did not believe in this Federation taking up extreme questions
ef party politics or ecclesiastical questions of any kind. (Cheers, and hear, hear.) They
hoped to carry the majority along with them by fair argument and sound common sense ;
and, if they did not, he felt sure the Federation would split up into fragments as soon as
they departed from the paths of prudence and moderation. (Cheers.) He had much
pleasure in moving the resolution placed in his hands, which, as he already said, he con-
sidered in the circumstances, a most judicious and wise one. (Loud cheers.)
Mr COLIN CHISHOLM, ex-President of the Gaelic Society of London, seconded,
in an eloquent Gaelic speech of which the following is the substance. He was proud
to attend as the representative that night of his old and worthy associates, the warm-
hearted and enthusiastic members «f the Gaelic Society of London (cheers), which was
the premier Gaelic Society of Great Britain, and which celebrated its centenary about
two years ago. (Loud applause.) It was with credentials from such a society that he
crossed Druimuachdar to appear at the meeting there that night. (Cheers.) In their
name, and with his own hearty concurrence, he begged to second the resolution pro-
posed, and advocated so forcibly, by Mr Mackenzie. He (Mr M.) said a great deal,
and that so much.tojthe point — (cheers) — that there was scarcely anything left for him to
say. But he would give them his opinion of the meeting. It was now over forty years
since he attended the first Gaelic meeting in England, and, according to his view, he
never saw a meeting before South or North so well calculated to prove beneficial to the
Highlands as the one held that evening. (Applause.) Unity, goodwill, and brotherly
feeling were animating the whole assembly, and if he were not mistaken these excellent
sentiments were being fixed in the mind, and engraved on the hearts of every man in
that assembly. (Cheers.) He would be much surprised if success and happiness were
not the outcome of such a meeting. They now had twenty-one well organized Celtic
Societies enrolled under the banner of Federation. (Loud cheers.) They were firmly
bound together into one powerful organisation, while each Society would still continue
to act independently and solely under its own specific constitution ;md bye-laws. (Hear,
hear.) He stated his opinion, that the meeting was the most unanimous meeting of
Highlanders that ever took place in the City of Glasgow- (cheers) —and he sincerely
hoped that time would prove his assertion correct. United, and shoulder to shoulder,
their well regulated and temperate but firmly expressed demands would command the
respect of the Legislature, frem the Queen downwards. (Applause.) He would not
take upon himself any longer to tender advice to gentlemen much wiser than himself.
No doubt they would excuse him for all he said whea they remembered that he was an
old, bald headed man, bordering on the Psalmist's limit of threescore and ten, and one
who has -done some little service in the Celtic field. (Loud and continued cheers.) Whe-
ther David was right or not— (laughter)— he (Mr C.) could assuredly tell them that he was
iu no hurry at present to go and make his acquaintance. (Great laughter.) He evi-
dently did not know what metal the Highlanders were made of, or he would never have
said any such thing. (Loud laughter.) He would say a few words regarding what fell
from Mr Brown, Gveenock, who said that for his part he would be sorry to see the High-
landers goiug back to tke Highlands if they were only to be wretched crofters like those
•who now remained there. God forgive those who sent the Highlanders away, and who
were responsible for the position of those left behind. (Cheers.) But would Mr Brown
rather see his countrymen as we saw hundreds of other people on the streets of Glasgow
that very day? perambulating the streets in sheer poverty j deprived almost of clothing
to cover their emaciated bodies ; hunger gnawing the very soul out of them ; cold
piercing them, the colour of health gone, and their cheekbones almost projecting through
their skin, scarcely able to stand erect, while receiving a miserable pittance from
the charitable to keep soul and body together. He would leave Mr Brown to cogitate
118 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
these matters, but before parting he entreated him to use all his influence to keep and
maintain his Highland countrymen on the land of th< ir birth. (Cheers.) If Mr Brown
went to the Highlands he would there see hundreds of square miles converted into fe-
rests for wild beasts, while Christian men and women, burn and reared on these lands
were swept away and heaped together in the large towns, generally there placed in layers
almost as thick us herrings in a barrel. It was really painful to see so much of the best
grazing and arable land throughout the Highlands cut off from the use of man, while
the forest lands annually extended, and the space allotted for human beings were'yearly
curtailed. (Cheers.) It would not do to be faint-hearted. Let them remember what
Ian Loin said on the eve of the battle of Auldearn —
" 'N ainm Dhia deanamaid turn,
Le aobhar misnich chum cliu,
Ach bha mise uair
Anns bu mho mo -cheutaidh."
Let them work amicably together, shoulder to shoulder, and they would immensely
benefit their native land. (Immense cheering again and again renewed.)
Mr WILLIAM SUTHERLAND, President of the Sutherland Association, moved "That
each society joining the Federation be entitled to send two representatives to the meet-
ing of the Federal Council, and pay an equal amount towards the necessary expenses of
the Federation." The larger societies, such as the Gaelic Society of Inverness, he ex-
plained, desired the representation and the contributions to the central fund to be in
proportion to the numbers on the roll of each society, but the smaller societies, in the
most spirited manner, declared in favour of equal representation and equal payment to
the expenses of the Federation. -(Cheers.) It was the desire of the smaller societies
themselves to contribute as much as the more wealthy associations ; and at the preli-
minary meetings held, and at which all the resolutions were fully discussed, this was
unanimously recommended. (Applause.)
The motion was seconded by Mr SAMUEL NICHOLSON, Greenock, who pointed out
that Mr Chisholm misunderstood Mr Neil Brown's remarks about Highlanders going
back to the Highlands to become impoverished and wretched crofters like most of those
•who now lived there. (Cheers.) Mr Brown would be delighted to see them back again,
like every other patriotic Highlander, if they were valued and treated there as they
ought to be. (Applause.) The resolution was carried unanimously.
Mr GILLIES moved " That the office bearers consist of a president, three vice-presi-
dents, two secretaries, and a treasurer, that they be elected annually, and that the
office-bearers be for the current year : — President, John Mackay, Esq,, C.E., Swansea ;
Vice-Presidents, Bailie Macdonald, Aberdeen ; Messrs Duncan White, and Nigel Mac-
neil, Glasgow ; Secretaries, Councillor Alex. Mackenzie, Inverness, and Mr William
Sutherland, Principal of Albert Educational Institution, Queen's Park, Glasgow ; Treas-
urer, Mr Macdonald, of the Ardnamurchan Society, Glasgow." These gentlemen, he
said, possessed the necessary qualifications of courage combined with prudence. The
motion was seconded by Mr A. W. MACLEOD, of the Skye Association, andjcarried unani-
imously.
Mr ANGUS NICHOLSON, of the Gael Lodge of Free Masons (609), moved, and Mr
ORR, Secretary of the Greenock Ossian Club, seconded the following : — " That the fore-
going resolutions be the constitution of the Federation till next annual meeting, and
that said constitution can only be altered then or at any future annual meeting by three-
feurths of the delegates assembled in council, who have been duly summoned to such
annual meeting by circular addressed to the respective secretaries of t lie affiliated societies
by either of the secretaries of the Federation ; and that meanwhile a committee, con-
sisting of the Glasgow delegates, be appointed to draw up bye-laws aud regulations.
Mr CHARLES M. RAMSAY, Secretary of the Skye Association, then called for a
hearty vote of thanks to the Chairman and the other gentlemen who had come from a
distance to take pnrt in the proceedings, particularly Councillor Mackenzie and Mr
Colin Chisholm. It was principally owing to the untiring efforts of the editor of the
Celtic Magazine, who had hitherto acted as Provisional : Secretary, and who, he was
glad to find, had, after considerable pressure, consented to continue as one of the secre-
taries, that the Federation of Celtic Societies had now been so successfully consummated.
(Loud applause.)
The CHAIRMAN said, in reply, that he was proud to have had the honour of presid-
ing at the first meeting of our first Celtic Parliament. Mr Mackenzie also replied, and
explained that he left home determined not to continue in the secretaryship, but he
found that none of the Glasgow gentlemen would accept the responsibilities of the
office, which, he admitted, would not be light. He, however, consented to continue for
another year on condition that Mr William Sutherland, whose business capacity as
TliE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 119
chairman at the preliminary meetings he much admired, would become joint secretary.
This Mr Sutherland finally consented to do, and he was now doing the duties, and no
doubt would continue to do them well — (cheers)— and da them all, while they insisted
upon Mm (Mr Mackenzie) sharing the honours with him. (Laughter.) He had no
hesitation, however, in predicting that the work would be done well between them, if
Mr Sutherland found it necessary to seek for aid from the Highland metropolis. (Loud
cheers.) The meeting was in every respect a most complete success, far more so than
the most sanguine of its promoters ever anticipated. (Cheers.)
The members for Glasgow met since the meeting, and, as instructed, framed rules
and bye-laws. We can only spare space to give the substance of them. The sum to be
subscribed by each society was fixed with power to the Council to make a further levy if
necessary. The financial year of the Federation is to terminate each year on the 15th
September. The annual meeting will be held early in October. Societies wishing to
join the Federation must intimate their desire to either of the Secretaries, not later
than 15th September. In addition to the annual meeting, three stated meetings are to
be held during the year, and any special meetings may be called on the written requisi-
tion of any five of the affiliated societies. It is also provided that absent representatives
may vote by mandate. We regret this, and trust that, after full consideration, this rule
will not be confirmed by the Council. To vote now-a-days upon any important question,
without hearing the discussion thereon, is out of all keeping with our ideas of what the
intelligent age in which we live demands, and quite unworthy of the enlightened and
influential position which Highlanders desire to see the Federal Council of Celtic
Societies taking up for itself.
TULLOCHARD.
- -- 0- -
The Mackenzies are out on the heather to-night,
Clan Donuil ! Clan Donuil, beware !
With revenge in their bosoms they rush to the fight,
Like wolves when aroused from their lair.
O'er the heath ! o'er the heath, see them swift bounding,
Claymores are glancing and bright is each shield,
Pealing far ! pealing far, wildly is sounding,
The slogan of moutaineer lords of the field ;
Loud in Glengarry its echo is heard —
Tullochard ! Tullochard ! Tullochard !
Awaken Glengarry ! come muster your braves,
Clan Donuil ! Clan Donuil, be men,
Sweeping on like a tempest that darkens the waves,
The Cabarfeidh comes to your glen.
Up and do ! up and do, linger nor tarry,
Where is your valour when danger is nigh ?
Stand as one I stand as one, men of Glengarry,
And give to their challenge a welcome reply.
Nearer and nearer the slogan is heard —
Tullochard ! Tullochard ! Tullochard
,
The might of Glengarry is broken for ever,
Clan Donuil ! Clan Donuil, may mourn,
The blood of the bravest runs red in the river,
The valiant will never return.
Fire and sword ! fire and sword, flashing and leaping,
Proudly Mackenzie leads on in the fight,
Clan Donuii ! Clan Donuil, thy children are weeping,
And Cilliechriost's flames are avenged with delight.
Dire was the day when the slogan was heard —
Tullochard! Tullochard! Tullochard!
ALLAN.
120
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
MO NIGHEAN DUBH THA BOIDHEACH DUBH.
In moderate tin"-.
£
:*=2
Chonm— Mo nighdean dubh, tha boidheadh dubh, Mo nighean dubb na treig mi.
^
& — P> — H
1r-j~tr
Oed theireadh each gu'ni bheil thu dubh, Cho geal 'san gruth leam fein thu.
J:fc
fat
S
Do shuilean mur na dearcagan, Do ghruaidh air dhath na ceire,
D.C.
:*=*
1
±ut
^ — r \f h/
_ATT^
Tha cnl do chinn air dhreach an fhithich, 'S gradh mo chridhe fein dut.
Kay F.
1, | d ., r : m . r I m ., s : d' . 1 | s ., m : m . r I m : 1, .
1, | d ., r : m . r
Fine.
. s : d1 . 1 | s ., m : m . r | d : d .
.m | 1 ., d1 : t .s
.t :1 .s | 1 ., d1 : t . s | 1 :1 .
D.C.
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Suil chorracb, ghorm fo chaol mhala,
Bho'n tig an sealladh eibhinn,
Mar dhealt camhannaich 's an Earrach,
'S mar dhruchd meala Cheiteiu.
Mo uighean, &c.
Tha fait dubh, dualach, trom neo-luaidhte,
'N ceangal sguaib air m' euchdag ;
Gur boiilheach e mu d' cbluasaibli
'S cha mheas' an cuaileiu breid c.
Mo nighean, &c.
Is olc a rinn do chnirdean orrn,
Is rinn ind pairt ort fein deth,
Nuair chuair iad as an duthaich thu
'S mi 'n duil gu'n deanainn feurn duit.
No nigbean, &c.
NOTE. — The above are a few verses of the popular song "Mo Nighean Dubh tba
Boidbeach Dubb." Tbe song has been attributed to several authors — generally clergy-
men — and perhaps some of the readers of the Celtic Magazine will establish wb® really
was the author. The air more commonly sung in some parts of the country to
tha woids, is "A man's a man for a' that," but there ia another old Gaelic air to which
it ia Bung— that which is given here. W. M'K.
THE
No. XL. FEBRUARY 1879. VOL. IV.
HISTORY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE,
WITH GENEALOGIES OF THE PRINCIPAL FAMILIES.
BY THE EDITOR.
[CONTINUED. |
XVIII. KENNETH, LORD FORTROSE, which courtesy title he bore as the
subordinate title of his father, and under this designation we find him
named as a freeholder of Ross in 1741. In the same year he was re-
turned Member of Parliament for the Burgh of Inverness ; for the County
of Ross in 1747, and again in 1754. In 1741, the year after Earl
William's death, the Crown sold the Seaforth estates, including the lands
of Kintail and the barony of Islandonain, and others, for the sum of
£25,909 8s 3^(1, under burden of an annuity of £1000 to Frances, Countess
Dowager of Seaforth. The purchase was for the benefit of Kenneth, Lord
Fortrose, our present subject.* He does not appear to have passed much
of his time at home, but in the last-named year he seems to have been
in the North from the following warrant issued by his authority, signed
by "Colin Mackenzie, Baillie," and addressed to Roderick Mackenzie,
officer of Locks, commanding him to summon and warn Donald Mac-
kenzie, tacksman of Lainbest, and others, to compear before "Kenneth,
Lord Fortrose, heritable proprietor of the Estate of Seaforth, at Braan
Castle, or before his Lordship's Baron Baillies, or other judges appointed
by him there, upon the 10th day of October next, to come to answer
several unwarrantable and illegal things to be laid to their charge."
Dated "at Stornoway, 29th September 1741." There appears to be no
doubt that in early life Lord Fortrose had communications with the re-
presentative of the Stewart family during his father's (Earl William)
exile. It is the general tradition to this day in Kintail that Kenneth
Fraser's History of the Earls of Cromartie.
122 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
and Sir Alexander Macdonald of Slcat, were school companions of Prince
Charles in France, and were among those who first imbued into his mind
the idea of attempting to regain possession of his Kingdom of Scotland,
promising him that they would use their influence with the other northern
chiefs to rise in his favour, although, Avhen the time for action came, neither
of them arose themselves. The position in which Lord Kenneth found
himself left, in consequence of the Jacobite proclivites of his ancestors,
and especially of his father, appears to have made a deep impression upon
him, and to have induced him to be more cautious in again supporting a
cause which was almost sure to land him in final and utter ruin. Though
he held aloof himself several of the clan joined the Prince, most of them
under the unfortunate Earl of Croinartie. Several young and powerful
Macraes, who strongly sympathised with Prince Charlie, though without
any of their natural leaders, left Kintail never again to return to it,
while, it is said, several others were actually bound with ropes by their
friends to keep them at home. The influence of the famous President
Forbes weighed very materially with Lord Fortrose in taking the side of
the Government, and, in return for his loyalty, the honours of his house
were, in part, afterwards restored.
In 1744 an incident occurred in Inverness in which his Lordship played
a conspicuous part, and which cannot well be passed over, exemplifying as
it does the impetuous character of the Highland Chiefs of the day. A
Court of the Freeholders of the county was held there at Michaelmas to
elect a collector of the land tax, at which were present, among others, Lord
President Forbes, the Laird of Macleod, Lord Fortrose, Lord Lovat, and
n>any other leading members of the Clan Fraser. A Avarni debate took
place between Lord Lovat and Lord Fortrose upon some burning business,
Avhen the Chief of the Frasers gave the Chief of the Mackenzies the lie
direct,. and the latter replied by striking his Lordship of Lovat a smart
WOAV in the face. Mutual friends at once intervened between the distin-
guished antagonists. The Fraser blood Avas up, hoAvevcr, and Fraser of
Foyers, Avho Avas also present, interfered in the interest of the Chief of
his Clan, but it is said, more in that capacity than from any personal esteem
he had for him. In his chief's person he felt that the Avhole Clan Avas in-
sulted as if it had actually been a personal blow to every one of the
name. He at once sprung doAvn from the gallery and presented ;i loaded
and cocked pistol at Lord Fortrose, to Avhoin it Avould undoubtedly have
proved fatal had not a gentleman present, Avitli great presence of mind,
throAvn his plaid over the muzzle, and thus arrested its deadly contents.
In another instant SAvords and dirks Avere draAvn on either side ; but the
Lord President and Macleod took hold of Fortrose and hurried him out
of the Court. Yet he no sooner gained the outside than one of the
Frasers levelled him to the ground Avith a bloAv from a heavy bludgeon,
notAvithstanding the efforts of his supporters to protect him. The matter
was afterwards, Avith great difficulty, arranged by mutual friends, be-
tween the great clan and their respective chiefs, othenvise the social jeal-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 123
ousies and other personal irritations winch then prevailed throughout the
whole Highlands, fanned by this incident, would be sure to have produced
a bloody feud between the Erasers and the Mackenzies.
Shortly after the President had arrived at Culloden he wrote a letter to
Lord Eortrose, under date of llth October 1745, in which he informed his
correspondent that the Earl of London came the day before to Cromarty,
and brought some "credit" with him, which "will enable us to put the
independent companies together for the service of the Government and
for our mutual protection." He desired his Lordship to give immediate
orders to pick those which are first to form one of the companies, in order
that they might receive commissions and arms. Mackenzie of Fairbum
was to command. There was, he said, a report that Earrisdale had gone
to Assynt to raise the men of that country, to be joined to those of Coig-
each, who were said to have orders to be in readiness to join him, and
with instructions to march through Mackenzie's territories to try how
many of his Lordship's vassals could be persuaded, by fair means or foul,
to.join the standard of the Prince. The President continued, " I hope
this is not true; if it is, it is of the greatest consequence to prevent it. I
wish Fairburn were at home ; your Lordship will let me know when he
arrives, as the Lord Cromartie has refused the company I intended for
his son. Your Lordship will deliberate to whom you would have it
given."*
Exasperated by the exertions made by President Forbes to obstruct the
designs of the disaffected a plan was formed to seize him by some of the
Frasers, a party of whom, amounting to about 200, attacked Culloden
House during the night of the 15th of October, but the President being
on his guard they were repulsed. t
On the 1 3th of October Lord Fortrose writes that he surmised some
young fellows of his name attempted to raise men for the Prince ; that he
sent expresses to the suspected parts, with orders to the tenants not to
stir under pain of death without his leave, though their respective masters
should be imprudent enough to desire them to do so. The messengers
returned with the people's blessings for his protection, and with assurances
that they would do nothing without his orders, " so that henceforward
your Lordship need not be concerned about any idle report from benorth
Kessock."
Lord Fortrose in a letter dated " Brahan Castle, 19th October 1745,"
refers to the attempt on the President's house, which surprised him ex-
tremely, and " is as dirty an action as I ever heard of," and he did not
think any gentleman would be capable of doing such a thing. "As I
understand your cattle are taken away, I beg yon will order your steward
to write to Colin, or anybody else here, for provisions, as I can be supplied
from the Highlands. I am preparing to act upon the defensive, and I
suppose will soon be provoked to act on the offensive. I have sent for a
strong party to protect my house and overawe the country. None of my
Kintail men will be down till Tuesday ; but as the river is high, and I
have parties at all the boats, nothing can be attempted. Besides, I shall
* Culloden papers, pp. 421-2.
t Culloden papers, p. 246.
124 THE CELTIC MAGAZINK.
have reinforcements every day. I have ordered my servants to get, at
Inverness, twelve or twenty pounds of powder, with a proportionable
quantity of shot. If that cannot be bought at Inverness, I must beg you
will write a line to Governor Grant to give my servant the powder, as I
can do without the shot Barrisdale has come down from
Assynt, and was collared by one of the Maclauchlans there for oifering to
force the people to rise, and he has met with no success there. I had a
message from the Mackenzies in Argyllshire to know what they should
do. Thirty are gone from Lochiel ; the rest, being about sixty, are at
home. I advised them to stay at home and mind their own busine.s^"
On the 28th of the same month he writes to inform the President
that Cromartie, his son, Macculloch of Glastullich, and Ardloch's brother,
came to Brahan Castle on the previous Friday ; that it was the most un-
expected visit he had received for sometime, that he did not like to turn
them out, that Cromartie was pensive and dull ; but that if lie knew
what he knew at the date of writing he would have made them prisoners,
for Lord Macleod had since gone to Lochbroom and Assynt to raise men.
He enclosed to the President the names of the officers belonging to the
two Mackenzie companies, and said that he offered the commission to
Coul and Redcastle ; but that both refused them. It was from Coul's
house that Lord Macleod started for the north, and that vexed him. On
the same date the President acknowledges receipt of this letter, and says
that the officers in the two companies should be filled up according to his
recommendations, "without any further consideration than that you judge
it right," and he desires to see Sir Alexander of Fairburn for an hour
next day to carry a proposal to his Lordship for future operations. " I
think," he writes, " it would be right to assemble still more men about
Brahan. than you now have ; the expense shah1 be made good ; and it will
tend to make Caberfey respectable, and to discourage folly among your
neighbours." In a letter of 6th November the Lord President writes, " I
supposed that your Lordship was to have marched Hilton's company into
town (Inverness) on Monday or Tuesday ; but I dare say there is a good
reason why it has not been done."
On the 8th November his Lordship informs the President that the
Earl of Cromartie crossed the river at Contin, with about a hundred men,
on his way to Beauly, " owing to the neglect of my spies, as there's
rogues of all professions." Lord Macleod, Cromartie's son, came from
Assyut and Lochbroom the same day, and followed his father to the ren-
dezvous, but after traversing the whole of that country he did not get a
single man. "Not a man started from Ross-shire, except AVilliam, Kil-
coy's brother, with seven men, and a tenant of Redc.istle with a few
more, and if Lentran and Terradon did go off last night, they did not
carry between them a score of men. I took a ride yesterday to the west-
ward with two hundred men, but find the bounds so rugged that it's im-
possible to keep a single man from going by if he has a mind. However,
I threatened to burn their cornyards if any body was from home this
day, and I turned one house into the river for not finding its master at
home. It's hard the Government gives nobody in the north power to
keep people in order. I don't choose to send a company to Inverness
until I hear what they are determined to do at Lord Lovat's." The Earl
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 125
of London writes to Marshal Wade, Commander-in-Chief in the North,
under date of 16th November, that 150 or 160 Mackenzies, seduced by
the Earl of Cromartie, marched in the beginning of that week up the
north side of Loch-Ness, expecting to be followed by 500 or 600 Erasers,
under command of the Master of Lovat, but the Mackenzies had not on
that date passed the mountains. On the 16th of December Lord Fort-
rose writes asking for £400 expended during two months 011 his men
going to and coming from the Highlands, for which he would not trouble
him only that he had a very " melancholy appearance " of getting his
Martinmas rent, as the people would be glad of any excuse for non-pay-
ment, and the last severe winter, and their having to leave home, would
afford them a very good one. He was told, in reply, that his letter was
submitted to Lord Loudon, that both agreed that his Lordship's expenses
must have been greater than what he claimed, " but as cash is very low
with us at present, all we can possibly do is to let your Lordship have
the pay of the two companies from the date of the letter signifying that
they were ordered to remain at Brahan for the service of the Government.
The further expense, which we are both satisfied it must have cost your
Lordship, shall be made good as soon as any money, to be applied to con-
tingencies which we expect, shall come to hand, and if it should not come
so soon as we wish, the account shall be made up and solicited, in the
same manner with what we lay out of our own purses, which is no incon-
siderable sums."
This correspondence, which it was thought right to quote at such
length, will show the confidence which existed between the Government
and Lord Fortrose. Ou the 9th of December the two companies were
marched into Inverness. Next day, accompanied by a detachment from
Fort -Augustus, they proceeded to Castle Downie to bring Lord Lovat to
account. The crafty old chief agreed to come to Inverness and deliver
up his arms on the 14th of the month, but instead of keeping his pro-
mise he effected his escape.
After the battle of Prestonpans, on the recommendation of the Earl
of Stair, the Government forwarded 20 blank commissions to President
Forbes, with the view of raising as many companies, of 100 men each
among the Highlanders. Eighteen of these documents were sent to the
Earls of Sutherland and Cromartie, Lords Fortrose and Reay, the Lairds
of Grant and Macleod, and Sir Alexander Macdonald of Sleat, with in-
structions to raise companies in their respective districts. The Earl
of Cromarty, while pretending to comply with the President's instructions,
offered the command of one of the companies to a neighbouring gentle-
man, whom he well knew to be a strong Jacobite, and at the same time
made some plausible excuse for his son's refusal of one of the com-
missions.
When Lord John Drummond landed with a body of Irish and Scotch
troops, which were in the service of the French, to support Prince Charles,
he wrote Lord Fortrose announcing his arrival, and earnestly requesting
his Lordship at once to declare for the Stewart cause, as the only means
by which he could "now expect to retrieve his character." All the
means at Drummond's disposal proved futile, and the Clan Mackenzie
was kept out of the unfortunate affair of the Forty-five. The commissions
126
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
were finally entrusted to those on whom the President and his advisers
thought prudent to depend as supporters of the King's Government.*
Prince Charles fully appreciated the importance of having the Clan
Mackenzie, led by their natural chief, for or against him ; in proof of
which we quote the following from Lord Macleod's " Narrative of the
Rebellion. "t "~\Ve sot oat from Dunblain on the 12th of January, and
arrived the same evening at Glasgow. I immediately went to pay my
respects to the Prince, and found that he was already set down to supper.
Dr Cameron told Lord George Murray, who sat by the Prince, who I was,
on which the Lord Murray introduced me to the Prince, whose hand I
had the honour to kiss, after which the Prince ordered me to take my
place at the table. After supper I followed the Prince to his apartment
to give him an account of his a Hairs in the North, and of what had passed
in these parts during the time "of his expedition to England. I found
that nothing surprised the Prince so much as to hear that the Earl of
Seaforth had declared against him, for he heard without emotion the
names of the other people who had joined the Earl of London at Inver-
ness; but when I told him that Seaforth had likewise sent two hundred
men to Inverness for the service of the Government, and that he had
likewise hindered many gentlemen of his Clan from joining my father
(Earl of Cromartie) for the service of the Stewarts, he turned to the
French Minister and said to him, with some warmth, He ! nwn Dieu ! et
Seaforth est aussi contre moi /"
In this connection it may not be out of place to mention two indivi-
duals of the name of Mackenzie who had done good service to the Prince
in his wanderings through the Highlands after the battle of Culloden.
* We give the following list of the officers of eighteen of the Independent Companies,
being all that was raised, with the dates of their commissions on the completion of their
companies, and of their arrival in Inverness : —
CLAN-.
CAPTAINS.
LIEUTENANTS.
ENSIGNS.
DATES.
Monros
George Monro
Adam Gordon
Hush Monro
Ken. Sutherland..
James Grant
James Mackay ....
John Mackay.
John Macea-skill. . .
John Macleod
John Macleod
I">nii!ild Ma<
William 13aillie... .
Roderick Macleod.
Simon Murcliison..
John Macrae
James Macdonald.
Donald Macdonald
Ancrus Mackay ....
1745. Oct. 23
,, 25
„ Nov. 3
,. ., *
15
,. 15
„ 15
15
„ 18
,, ,, 28
„ Dec. 20
i. ,, 20
,, ,, 31
1T46. Jan. 6
>> .. 0
» ,. 8
Feb. 2
Sutherlands . .
(Grants
Alexander Gun.
John Gordon
Patrick Grant
William Grant
John Mackay
William Mackay ....
Alex. Maclend
Donald Macleod
John Campbell
William Macleod....
Kenneth Mathison ..
( Icorge Monro
Mackays
Sutherlands . .
Macleods
Do
George Mackay
Peter Sutherland
J ohn Macleod
Norman Macleod of
Waters tein
Norman Macleod of
Bernera
Donald Macdonald
William Mackintosh...
Huuh Macleod
Do
Do
Inverness —
Macleods of
Assynt
Maekenzies of
Kintail
Do
Alex. Mackenzie
Colin Mackenzie of
Hilton
James Macdonald
John Maedonald
Hugh Mackay
William Ross
John Mathison
Alex. Campbell
Allan Macdonald —
Allan Macdonald. . . .
.1 1 ihn Mackay
Macdonalds
of Skye
Do
Mackays
i/.'es of
Lewis
Colin Mackenzie
Donald Macaulay —
Ken. Mackenzie. . .
-Culloden Papers.
t Prkited in full ia Fraser's " History of the Earls of Cromartie."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 127
He was saved from certain capture in the Lewis by the kindness of Mrs
Mackenzie of Kildin, in her house at Arynish, half-a-mile from Stornoway.
where his Royal Highness obtained a bed for the night of the 5th of May.
A tribute must also be paid to the gallant Roderick Mackenzie, whose
intrepidity and presence of mind in the last agonies of death, saved his
Prince from pursuit at the time, and who was consequently the means of his
ultimate escape to France in safety. He had hitherto been pursued with
the most parse vering assiduity, but Roderick's trick proved so successful
that further search was at the time considered unnecessary. Roderick
Mackenzie, a young man of very respectable family, joined the Prince at
Edinburgh, and served as one of his life-guards. Being about the same
age as his Royal Highness, tall, and somewhat slender like the Prince,
and with features in some degree resembling his, he might, by ordinary
observers not accustomed to see the t\ro together, have passed for the
Prince. As Roderick could not venture with safety to return to Edin-
burgh, where lived his two maiden sisters, after the battle of Culloden,
he fled to the Highlands, and lurked among the hills of Glenmoriston,
where, abcm't the middle of July, he was surprised by a party of Govern-
ment soldiers. Mackenzie endeavoured to escape, but, being overtaken,
he turned round on his pursuers, and, drawing his sword, bravely de-
fended himself. He was ultimately shot by one of the red-coats, and as
he fell, mortally wounded, he exclaimed, "You have killed your Prince!
You have killed your Prince ! " after which he immediately expired. The
soldiers, overjoyed at their supposed good -fortune, cut oft' Roderick's
head, and hurried off to Fort-Augustus with their prize. The Duke of
Cumberland, fully convinced that he had now obtained the head of his
Royal relative, packed it up carefully, ordered a post-chaise, and at once
went off to London, carrying the head along with him. After his arrival
there the deception was discovered, but meanwhile it proved of essential
benefit to Prince Charles in his ultimately successful efforts to escape.*
Soon after the battle of Culloden a fleet appeared off the coast of
Lochbroom, under the command of Captain Fergusson. It dropped
anchor in Loch-Ceannard, when a large party went ashore and proceeded
up the Strath to the residence of Mr Mackenzie of Lajgwell, closely con-
nected by marriage with the Earl of Cromartie. LajStvell having sided
with the Stewart Prince, fled out of the way of the hated Fergusson ; but
his lady was obliged to remain to attend her children, Avho were at the
time confined with smallpox. The house was ransacked. A large chest
containing the family and other valuable papers, including a wadset of
Langwell and Inchvennie from her relative, George, Earl of Cromartie,
was burnt before her eyes ; and about fifty head of fine Highland cattle
were mangled by their swords and driven to the ships of the spoilers.
Nov did this satisfy them. They continued to commit similar depreda-
tions without discriminating between friend or foe during the eight days
which they remained in the neighbourhood. t
It is very generally supposed that Lord Fortrose had strong Jacobite
feelings, though his own prudence and the influence of President Forbes
* Highland Clans. Chambers's Rebellion. Stewart's Sketches,
t New Statistical Account of Lochbiooni, by the late Dr Ross, minister of the Parish.
128 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
secured his support to the Government. This is the opinion at any rate
of the writer of a modern MS. History of the Clan, already quoted by us,
and who concludes his sketch of his Lordship thus : — Though many re-
spectable individuals of the Clan Mackenzie had warmly espoused the
cause of Charles, Lord Fort-rose seems at no time to have proclaimed
openly for him, whatever hopes he might have countenanced, when in
personal communication with the expatriated sovereign, as indeed there
is" cause to infer something of the kind from a letter which, towards the
end of November 1745, was addressed by Lord John Drummond to Ken-
neth, pressing him instantly to join the Prince, then successfully pene-
trating the West of England, and qualifying the invitation by observing
that it was the only mode for his Lordship to retrieve his character. Yet
so little did Fortrose or his immediate followers affect the cause, that
when Lord Lovat blockaded Fort- Augustus, two companies of Mackeii/.ies,
which had been stationed at Brahan, were withdrawn, and posted by
Lord London, the Commander-in-chief of the Government forces, at Castle
Downie, the stronghold of Fraser, and, with the exception of these, the
Koyal party received no other support from the family of Seaforth,
though many gentlemen of the Clan served in the King's army. Yet it
appears that a still greater number, with others whose ancestors identified
themselves with the fortunes of the House of Kintail, were inclined to
espouse the more venturous steps of the last of the Stewarts. George,
the last Earl of Cromarty, being then paramount in power, and, probably
so, in influence, even to the Chief himself, having been, for certain
reasons, liable to suspicions as to their disinterested nature, declared for
Charles, and under his standaid his own levy, with all the Jacobite ad-
herents of the Clan ranged themselves, and were mainly instrumental in
neutralizing Lord London's and the Laird of Macleod's forces in the sub-
sequent operations of 1746, driving them, with the Lord President
Forbes, to take shelter in the Isle of Skye.*
Kenneth, Lord Fortrose, married on the llth of September 1741,
Lady Mary Stewart, eldest daughter of Alexander, sixth Earl of Galloway,
and by her had issue, one son and six daughters. She died in London on
the 18th of April 1751, and was buried at Kensington, where a monu-
ment was raised 'if> her memory. The daughters married respectively ;
Margaret, on the 4th June 1785, a Mr William Webb; Mary, Henry
Howard of Eflingham ; Agnes, J. Douglas; Catherine, 1st March 1773,
Thomas Griffin Tarplcy ; Frances, General Joseph Wald ; and Euphe-
mia, 2d of April 1771, William Stewart of Castle Stewart, M.P. for the
County of Wigton. His Lordship died in London, on the 1 9th of October
17G1 ; was buried in Westminster Abbey, and was succeeded by his only
son. (To be Continued.)
THE HISTORY OP THE CLAN MACKENZIE, Ave may say, in answer to
various enquiries, is in the press in a separate form. A good part of it is
already printed, and it is expected to be in the hands of subscribers in
April or May next. About twenty extra copies are being printed to avoid
disappointment to parties ordering while the work is in the press.
* Bennetsfceld MS.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 129
A LEGEND OF ARGYLL.
ON a dark tempestuous night, about the middle of last century, an anxious
group of people gathered on the seashore of a small village on the
west coast of Argyllshire. In spite of the howling wind, and pelting
rain, they stood, straining their eyes seaward, to watch through the gloom
the struggles of a gallant ship, which, with her devoted crew seemed
doomed to destruction. The vessel was evidently disabled, and totally
unmanageable, and the villagers listened with deep emotion and ejacula-
tions of horror and distress to the deep booming of the minute gun, and
the hoarse cries of the sailors imploring the assistance of those on shore,
who were powerless to assist them. Nearer, and nearer, the ill-fated ship
was driven to the deadly rocks, until at length the end came ; with a fear-
ful crash she struck, one moment she was lifted high by the cruel waves,
the next saw her dashed to pieces like a toy in the hands of a giant, and
her crew battling for life in the raging sea. Now the brave landsmen do
their utmost to help. With encouraging shouts they rush through the
boiling surf, and throw ropes to the drowning men, but alas ! few indeed
can they save. The women are not idle ; they have blankets to throw
around the senseless forms, and restoratives to hold to the pallid lips of
the half-drowned men. Among the most active was a widow, who, with
her tAvo daughters, was busily engaged in assisting a fine stalwart young
sailor, who had just been rescued from the waves — whether dead or
alive, could hardly be at first seen. The widow's cottage being near, they
conveyed him there, and by their united and sustained efforts, had at
length the pleasure of seeing him revive, and able to thank them for their
kindness.
When recovered sufficiently to give an account of his ship and her
disastrous voyage, it came out that he belonged to the next village, al-
though he had been absent at sea for several years. They knew his mo-
ther well, and great was the joy of all, when, on the morrow, they accom-
panied him to her house, and related the story of the wreck and his de-
liverance.
Donald Ban (for such was his name) finding his father was dead, and
his mother getting frail and requiring help on her small croft, decided to
give up a seafaring life and to settle at home. Naturally enough he often
paid a visit to the widow's cottage, where he had met with such kindness,
but it would be difficult to prove that his visits would have been quite so
frequent or prolonged, had it not been for the attraction of the widow's
daughters, Mary and Barbara. Mary, the eldest, was a quiet, kind-hearted,
sensible girl, with a homely face, only rendered attractive by good-nature
and robust health. Her one point of beauty lay, in her magnificent fair
hah', which, when released from its fastenings, fell in luxuriant masses
down to her feet. Her sister, five years her junior, was a great contrast,
both in appearance and disposition. Very beautiful in person, lively in
manner, she captivated all who came within her power. All the young
men for miles round were her devoted admirers, but Barbara was a co-
quette, and no one knew whom she favoured most. An acute observer
130 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
might notice that her eyes, bright anil heautiful as they were, yet hail a
cohl hard look, and that her cherry lips, at times, would grow thin and
white, and wreath into a cruel smile, anything but pleasant to see.
Donald Ban, like the rest, was dazzled by her beauty and attrac-
tive manner ; at the same time, the best part of his nature made him feel
that Mary was superior in every true womanly quality, to her more fasci-
nating sister. Still he wavered, fluttering like a moth round the light that
would destroy him at last. His mother, who was now growing very infirm,
wished him to marry ; and having known Mary from childhood, was most
anxious that Donald should choose her for his wife. Donald returning
home one evening, after a more than usually prolonged visit to the widow's
cottage, was alarmed to find his mother l}ring back in her chair, in a
swoon. Blaming himself severely for his neglect in leaving her so long
alone, he did his utmost to restore her to consciousness. After a little
while, she somewhat revived, but was evidently very much shaken and
ill. Feeling near her end, she spoke very seriously to Donald about
his choice of a wife, and assured him that while lying apparently uncon-
scious, she had a vision, and saw, through the medium of the second-sight,
a forecast of the future of the two sisters. "I saw," she continued, "Mary
a happy wife and mother, a blessing and a comfort to her husband ; but
Barbara's future Avas dark and sinful. Her lover will be driven by her
into the commission of a terrible crime, and both will perish in a sudden
and terrible manner. The form of Mary's husband, as also that of Barbara's
lover, was hidden from me. But remember this warning. Shun Barbara
as you would a beautiful but deadly serpent. Promise me that as soon as
I am dead, and the days of your mourning are past, you will marry Mary,
and be a true and faithful husband to her." Donald, much affected by
his mother's earnest appeal, promised faithfully to carry out her last
wishes.
The old woman shortly after died, and in course of time Donald pre-
pared to fulfil his promise. He proposed to Mary, and was accepted, her
mother being well pleased to have Donald for a son-in-law. Whatever
Barbara's feelings were on the subject, she kept them to herself, merely
excusing herself, for the extraordinary proceeding of a sister in those dis-
tricts, from being present at the wedding, as she was going to pay a long
visit to a relative in a neighbouring town.
Donald and Mary were in due time married, and lived quietly and
happily for nearly three years. They had two children, a boy and a girl.
Mary's mother dying about this time, and Barbara being still unmarried,
she came to live with them. She was if possible more beautiful than ever —
still in the first bloom of her womanhood ; and soon Donald found him-
self as much under her influence as ever. Manfully he struggled for a
time to subdue his fatal passion, but in a short time he was as help-
- a fly iii a spider's web. His infatuation was complete, and it made
him oblivious to the sacred claims of a husband and a lather. It is doubt-
ful whether Barbara really felt any affection for him, but she took a de-
in exercising her power of bewitching him, though withal she used
such tact that her truc-heartod sister, or the unfaithful Donald, never
suspected her.
It was a lovely summer day. Donald was working on his croft, in
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 131
sight of his cottage, the door of which stood open, exposing a scene of
homely comfort. The room Avas scrupulously clean. Mary, with a happy
contented look lighting up and beautifying her homely face, was busily
employed making oatcake, the appetising smell of Avhich seemed to tickle
the olfactory nerves of a fine collie, basking in the sun outside the door,
who, lifting his head occasionally, would give a satisfied sniff, but was too
well bred to shew any impatience. The eldest child, a sturdy boy of two
years, was 011 the floor, playing with a kitten, as frolicsome as himself —
the baby girl was sleeping in her cradle. Barbara was sitting quietly,
knitting. The humming of the bees, as they flitted from flower to flower,
the twitting of the birds, and the soothing sound of the sea waves, break-
ing gently against the neighbouring rocks, completed this picture of peace-
ful happiness, from which discord and trouble seemed far removed. After
finishing her culinary operations, Mary proposed to go to the rocks to
gather dulse, of which Donald was very fond ; the boy clamoured to
go along with her, but his mother quieted him by promising to take him,
out on her return.
Anxious to obtain the best dulse, Mary scrambled on to a rock jutting
out in the sea, always covered at high water. Having filled her basket,
she sat down to rest, and the day being hot, soon fell asleep.
The duties and simple pleasure of domestic life had no attraction for
Barbara. She soon tired of being alone, and giving the sagacious dog
charge of the children, went to look for her sister. She soon discovered her,
still peacefully sleeping on the fatal rock. The tide was just turning, but
instead of awakening her sister, Barbara stood and stared, and as she looked,
an evil flash came in her eye, a cruel smile was on her lips, and from
a beautiful woman, she seemed suddenly as if transformed into a she-
demon. At length she turned, and going to Donald, prevailed upon him
to accompany her to the beach, saying she wished to show him something
remarkable. Arriving at the rock, she pointed out the still slumbering
Mar}*, and, without a word, fixed her flashing eyes on Donald. Spell-
bound, he gazed at her, until the same dreadful idea also possessed him.
The water was now within a yard of the peaceful and sleeping woman ;
in a few minutes she would be totally surrounded by the tide, and if not
awakened instantly, her life would be lost ; yet still they stood silent and
inactive. At last Barbara muttered, or rather hissed through her close-
set teeth, " We must not let this chance escape, we must make sure work
of it. Come, Donald, help me to plait her hair with the sea weeds." So
saying, she drew the infatuated man in the direction of his devoted wife.
"With eager fingers, they quickly unwound poor Mary's long tresses, and
plaited and knotted them with the weeds growing on the rock. Then
retiring to a point of safety, they waited the inevitable result. The
tide had now completely surrounded their victim, who, as it touched her,
awoke with a start. Donald's heart now failed him. Although he
wished her dead, he could not bear to see her murdered. With a
groan, he turned and fled, stopping his ears for fear of hearing the death
agonies of his wife. Barbara looked at him, with a scornful smile on her
lips, and muttering a curse on his cowardice. She did not intend to lose
sight of her victim. When Mary awoke she strove to rise and escape,
but to her horror, found herself bound to the rock. Startled and confused
132 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
by her sudden awakening, she imagined for a moment that she was dream-
ing, or under the influence of a dreadful nightmare ; but the cold waves
now breaking over her, soon convinced her of her true position. AVith
frantic hands, she tore at her hair, crying loudly for help ; then catching
sight of her sister, a gleam of hope came, but to her indescribable horror
and despair, her cries for assistance were met only with a low mocking
laugh. Then was the fearful conviction forced upon her that she was be-
ing murdered, and that at the hands of her own sister. AVith heart-rending
cries, she called. on her husband to succour her, but the only answer came
from Barbara, telling her how he also had even helped to bind her to the
rock. Surprise and horror closed poor Mary's lips for a moment ; she
then thought of her children — her handsome boy, her firstborn — and her
sweet babe, who was even then requiring its natural food. The thought
was distraction. Again she tried to move the stony heart of her unnatural
sister, by pitiable appeals for dear life, imploring her by every tie,
human and divine, to save her ; by the memory of their dead mother, by
their sisterhood, for the sake of the children, for the sake of her own soul,
not to commit this foul deed. But as well might she attempt to stay the
tide now washing over her, as move the heartless she-fiend who sat gloat-
ing over the sight of her victim's sufferings, like a tiger over the struggles
of his prey. Inch by inch the water rises, now it reaches her neck, the
next wave drowns her voice, there is a gasp and a gurgle. Another wave
— the fair head is covered, and poor Mary is in eternal rest.
By Mary's death, an obstacle was removed from the path of the guilty
pair, but yet they were not happy. Nothing prospered with Donald —
his harvest was bad, his potatoes diseased, his sheep died, his cows sick-
ened ; however hard he might work, everything went wrong — he got no
sympathy nor help from his neighbours, who all shunned him since his
wife's death ; he grew gloomy and morose ; tortured with remorse, he
dragged out a miserable existence. Barbara Avas also changed — she was
never fitted for home duties, and having now no object in trying to cap-
tivate Donald, she grew careless and neglectful, and the guilty pair passed
most of their time in mutual accusations and recriminations.
The first anniversary of Mary's death arrived. It was a heavy oppres-
sive day, and Donald felt more than usually depressed and miserable; his
crime weighed heavily upon his conscience, and his mother's prophetic
warning continually rang in his ears. His day's work over, he entered
his cottage for the night, but how changed it had become — no com-
fort, no happiness. Instead of a true-hearted loving wife to welcome him,
there was this woman, beautiful indeed, but she seemed possessed with a
mocking devil. Totally heartless herself, she laughed him to scorn when-
ever he ventured to express regret lor the past, or hint at amendment in
the future. As night drew near, the air became still more oppressive,
the clouds, heavy with electricity, hung low down ; the distant mutter-
ings of thunder were heard, and the forked lightning flashed over the
dark and troubled sea.
Donald and Barbara retired to rest, but he at least could not sleep
— he felt a presentiment of coming evil. As the storm drew nearer and
inn-eased in intensity, he literally quaked with fear. Just at midnight, a
terrific thunder clap burst over the house, and as the lurid flash lighted
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up the room, he saw Avilh unspeakable horror, the figure of his murdered
wife standing by the bedside. With a severe yet sorrowful look and voice,
she seemed to say, " Your hour is come, retribution has overtaken you at
last, and your partner in guilt. I go to protect my beloved offspring."
The iigure then slowly glided into the next room, in which slept the in-
nocent children. Again the thunder pealed long and loud — again the
lightning Hashed — a blinding sheet of flame appeared to envelope the cot-
tage for a moment ; the storm ceased almost suddenly, dying away in dis-
tant rumblings of thunder echoed from the surrounding rocks.
Next morning was calm and clear. The people of the neighbourhood
were astir by break of day to see what mischief the unusually severe storm
had done. Arrived at Donald's cottage, they stood struck with
astonishment which, on further investigation, was turned into a feeling of
terror. One end of the cottage had been struck by lightning, and
was a total ruin. Under the scorched rafters lay two blackened and repul-
sive bodies, which on investigation, they recognised as the "disfigured .re-
mains of Donald and his guilty paramour. The other half of the cottage
was unscathed, and entering it, they found the two lovely children, locked
in each other's arms, breathing the breath of innocence, calmly sleeping,
with the angelic smile and beautiful expression, always observed on the
face of slumbering infancy. Thus was Mary avenged.
M. A. EOSE.
WAR SPEECH OF A HIGHLAND CHIEF.
The foe is advancing : make ready, brave men !
Arise every sou of the mountain and glen !
Rush on to the combat, and let the knaves ken
We're stems of the soul-rousing Thistle !
Rush on like ths foam crested billows that roar,
When lashing with fury our wild rocky shore !
The dear ones defending ye love and adore —
Heap fame on the soul-rousing Thistle !
Rush on like the light'uing and thunder of Heaven,
When mountains majestic asunder are riven !
And give them the welcome your fathers have given
A' foes of the soul-rousing Thistle !
To tyrants bend never : our banner's unfurl'd,
A streamer of glory it waves o er the world ;
Though army on army against us be hurl'd,
Stand fast for the soul-rousing Thistle !
Now clansmen, for freedom, your claymores unsheath,
Wave, wave them on high o'er tire dark purple heath,
Add laurels unrivall'd to honour's bright wreath,
Staunch sons of the soul-rousing Thistle !
Then on, my blue bonnets, to death's gory stage ;
And carve this proud motto on liberty's page —
" We'll hand down, unblemished, to each tolling age,
The glorious soul-rousing Thistle ! "
EDINBURGH. ALEXANDER LOGAN.
134 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
THE GAELIC NAMES OF TREES, SHRUBS, PLANTS, &c.
BY CHARLES FERGUSSON.
0
[CONTINUED.]
WKKPING BIRCH. — Latin, Betula Pendula ; Gaelic, Beitke Dtibkach. The
weeping birch is the most graceful and beautiful of all our native High-
land trees, and where it grows to perfection, as it does in Strathglass,
Lochness-sicle, and in many other parts of the Highlands, there is nothing
that can add more to the beauty of the landscape than its tall silvery stem,
with its graceful drooping branches which, though 'twenty or thirty feet
long, are no thicker than a common pack thread. Well might Coleridge
call the weeping birch " The Lady of the Woods."
DWARF BIRCH. — Latin, Betula Nana ; Gaelic, Bcithe Bearj. The
dwarf birch, the hardiest of all tree? or shrubs, grows abundantly on some
of the higher ranges in the Highlands, though unknown south of the
Highland border, or even in our own low straths. It grows in Corry-
challin, in Glenlyon, in Strathardle, on Ben Lawers, Ben-y-gloe, and on
several of the other Perthshire Grampians, also in the wilds of Strathglass,
and on the moors near Loch Glass, in Ross-shire. It is of an erect habit,
but seldom reaches a height of over three feet. The bark is of a shining
red or dark purple colour, and the fertile catkins which grow at the
extremity of the branches are a favourite food of grouse and ptarmigan.
As the leaves and twigs of this variety yield a much brighter yellow dye
than any of the other varieties of birch, it used to be much sought after
by the Highland housewives, and through their cutting it all when found
growing near their houses, it is now unknown in many places where it was
once common. Another, and perhaps a stronger reason for its disappear-
ance is that it never grows high enough to be beyond the reach of sheep,
which are now all over the country, and as they are very fond of the
young twigs and leaves, they constantly nip off the young wood, and so
never allow it to seed, and very soon kill the parent shrub itself. In the
Arctic regions the dwarf birch is found growing on the borders of the
eternal snow, where it is the only vai'iety of tree known, and its catkins
and seeds afford the only food for the large flocks of ptarmigan and other
birds found in those high northern latitudes.
BIRDS' CHERRY. — Latin, Cerasus padus ; Gaelic, Fi<><Um<j. This tree
is a native of the Highlands, where it grows on the banks of streams, and
produces large crops of its black berries. These berries are very sour, but
birds are very fond of them, Avhich, of course, gave rise to its name.
Lightfoot informs us that the berries were used by way of infusion in
brandy in the Highlands when he was there.
BLACK THORN. — Latin, Pnum* .-^///n^ ; Gaelic, Syilhcacli duWi ;
Precis nan ainieafj. This is a well-known native shrub, and grows very
common all over the country. The bark was much used by our ancestors
for dyeing a bright red colour. Lightfoot mentions that the fruit will
make a very fragrant and grateful wine, a fact which the great botanist
never forgets to mention of any fruit or plant out of which it is possible
to extract anything drinkable !
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Box. — Latin, Buxus sempervircns ; Gaelic, Bucsa. The box is a native
England, but seems to have been introduced very early into the High-
lands, where it thrives very Avell in the low glens. The wood, which is
very hard and close-grained, was used by the old Highlanders for carving
ornamental dirk and scjian dulih handles, cuaclis, &c. Erom the great
resemblance of the box to the red whortleberry, or Liis nam Braoilcag,
the real badge of the Clan Chattan, the box was often used by that Clan
instead of the whortleberry, as it was generally easier procured, which
gave rise to the mistaken idea that the box is the badge of the Clan
Chattan.
BRIER EOSB. — Latin, Rosa canina ; Gaelic, Dris; An fliearrdhris ;
Precis nam mucag. 'This prickly shrub grows all over the Highlands,
where its fruit — mucagan — is often eaten by children, and also sometimes
used for preserves. The strong prickles with which it is armed gave rise
to the old Gaelic proverb, " Cho crosda ris an dris." The Highlanders
used the bark of the brier, with copperas, for dyeing a beautiful black
black colour.
BROOM. — Latin, Sparlium Scopariimi ; Gaelic, Bealaidli. The
" bonny, bonny broom " needs no description, as it is known to every-
body, and its bright green branches and golden blossoms add to the beauty
of most Highland landscapes. The old Highlanders used the broom for
almost endless purposes, some of Avhich I may mention here. The twigs
and branches wore used to thatch houses and stacks, to make brooms, and
to Aveave in their fences to exclude sheep and hares from their gardens, and
also to tan leather, for which purpose it is equal to oak bark. A decoc-
tion of this shrub was much recommended for the dropsy, and half an
ounce of the flowers or seeds was considered a strong emetic by the old
Highland housewives. During snow, sheep and deer are very fond of
browsing on it, but if sheep not accustomed to it are allowed too much of
it at first it makes them giddy, or as the shepherds say drunk. The
broom is the badge of the Clans Eorbes and Mackay.
CHERRY. — Latin, Primus Cerasus — Gaelic, Siris or Sirist. Of course
this tree is just the wild cherry or gean, brought to its present perfection
by long cultivation. It seems to have been well known to the old High-
landers, as the bards often in singing the praises of their sweethearts,
compare the colour of their cheeks to the cherry- -" Do ghruaidh mar an
t-siris."
CHESTNUT. — Latin, Fugus castanea ; Gaelic, Geanm-chno. This tree
is said to be a native of England, but not of Scotland. This, however, is
doubtful, for if it is not a native, it must have been introduced into this
country very early, from the immense size of some of the chestnut trees
found growing in many paits of the Highlands. One growing in the
garden of Castle Leod, in Eoss-shire, in 1820, measured 15 feet in cir-
cumference ; and mention is made, in the oSrew Statistical Account, of
three chestnuts measured at Castle Menzies in 1844, whose respective
girths were 16, 18|, and 21 feet. The wood is very hard and durable,
and that its value was known to our ancestors is proved by the fact that
it is found along with oak in the roofs and woodwork of some of our old-
est Highland castles and mansion houses.
ELDER. — Latin, Sambucus niger ; Gaelic, Dromun ; Craobh an dro-
136 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
main. This is a native of the Highlands, and was used by the High-
landers in many ways. They used its berries for dyeing a brown colour,
and of course everybody who has heard of the " Lair.l o' Cockpen " knows
that a wine is made of the flowers —
" Mistress Jean she was makin' the elder flower wine,
Says, ' What talcs the Laird here at sic an ill time?"1
The berries also were fermented into a wine, which was usually drank
warm. The medicinal virtues of the elder were well known to our
ancestors, for indeed it was one of their principal remedies for many
diseases ; and as a proof that they were correct in this, and also that its
virtues were known in other countries, I may mention that the great
physician Boerhave regarded the elder with such reverence for its medicinal
virtues, that he al \vays took off his hat when passing an elder tree !
FIR (SCOTCH). — Latin, Pinussylvestris ; Gaelic, Giutlias. The Scotch
Fir is the " most Highland " of all our trees, and there is no tree that looks
nobler than it does towering amongst our bens and glens. In our earliest
records we find mention of our great Caledonian fir forest, which extended
from Glenlyon and Rannoch, to Strathspey and Strathglass, and from
Glencoe eastward to the Braes of Mar. This great forest has mostly dis-
appeared ages ago, caused principally by being cut, or set fire to wilfully,
or accidentally, by the different clans, during their continual wars, or by
foreign invaders. A large portion of the ground which once formed part
of this great forest is now converted into peat bogs, in which are found
embedded huge trunks of fir, some of which still show traces of fire, or
lying close to their roots or stocks, which arc firmly fixed by the roots in
the underlying firm soil. The largest portions of the ancient Caledonian
forest left are in Rannoch, Perthshire ; in Braemar, Aberdeenshire ; in
Badenoch, Strathspey, Glenmore, Rothiemurchus, Glenmoriston, and
Strathglass, in Inverness-shire ; near Loch Maree, in Ross-shire ; and at
Coigeach, Strathnaver, and Dirry-Monach, in Sutherland. The wood of
this tree is very valuable, being easily wrought, resinous, and very dur-
able, a proof of which is mentioned by Smith, in his "View of the Agri-
culture of Argyle." He says — " The roof of Kilchurn Castle, Argyleshire,
was made of natural fir, and when taken down, after having stood over
300 years, was found as fresh and full of sap as newly imported Memel."
Besides using it for roofs, the old Highlanders also used this wood for
floors, and for making chests, beds, tables, and endless other domestic
purposes. The resinous roots dug out of the earth not only supplied the
best of fuel, but was used for light, being split up into small splinters,
which, from the quantity of rosin contained in them, burnt with the
brightness of gas. They were burnt cither on a flat stone or an iron
brander placed near the tire, under the large open chimneys in old High-
land cottages ; and it was the nightly duty either of the old grandfather
or the young hen I boy, to sit by the light and replenish it by fresh
splinters as they burned down, whilst the other members of the family
attended to their domestic duties, or sat and listened to the songs or tra-
ditions of bye-gone days. Lightfoot mentions that Pennant and himself
observed the fishermen of Lochbroom, in Ross-shire, make ropes of the
inner bark of the fir. He also mentions another curious fact about the
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 137
fir. He says — "The farina, or yellow powder, of the male flowers, is
sometimes in spring carried away by the winds, in such quantities where
the trees abound, as to alarm the ignorant with the notion of its raining
brimstone." The fir is very often mentioned by Ossian, and no doubt in
his day many of the large tracts, which are flow barren peat mosses, were
covered with luxuriant pine forests. To explain how this great change
came about I may give the following extract from an able work, " A
Description and History of Vegetable Substances used in the Arts and
Domestic Economy." In the article on the Scotch fir, it says, page 26 —
" One of the most singular changes to which any country can be subjected,
is that which arises from the formation of extensive masses of peat-earth.
They are common in most of the colder parts of the world, and are known
in Scotland by the name of peat mosses. These accumulations of a
peculiar vegetable matter are a sort of natural chronicle of the countries
in which they are found. In the northern parts of Britain they point out
that the soil and climate were once far superior to what the country now,
in those situations, enjoys. The era of the first commencement of these
bogs is not known ; but as in many of them, both in Ireland and Scot-
land, are found the horns and skulls of animals of which no living speci-
mens now exist in the country, and have not been since the commence-
ment of recorded history, their history must be referred to very remote
periods. Notwithstanding this, the formation of a peat bog under favour-
able circumstances does not appear to be a very lengthened process, lor
George, Earl of Cromarty, mentions (Philosophical Transactions, No. 330)
that near Loch Braon (Loch Broom), on the west of Eoss-shire, a consider-
able portion of ground had, between the years of 1651 and 1699, been
changed from a forest of barked and leafless pines to a peat moss or bog,
in which the people were cutting' turf for fuel. The process, according to
the Earl's description, which has been verified by the observations of
others, is this — The pines, after having stood for some time deprived of
their bark and bleaching in the rains, which in that country are both
heavy and frequent, are gradually rotted near their roots, and fall. After
they have been soaked by the rains, they are soon covered with various
species of fungi. When these begin to decay the rain washes the adhesive
matter into which they are reduced between the tree and the ground, and
a dam is thus formed, which collects and retains the water. Whenever
this takes place, the surface of the stagnant pool, or moist earth, becomes
covered with mosses, and these mosses further retain the water. It is a
property of those species of moss which grow most readily in cold or moist
districts, to keep decomposing at the roots while they continue to grow
vigorously at the tops. Cold and humidity, as has been said, are the cir-
cumstances in which the mosses that rot and consolidate into peat are
formed ; and when the mosses begin to grow they have the power of
augmenting those causes of their production. The mossy surface, from its
spongy nature, and from the moisture with which it is covered, is one of
the very worst conductors of heat ; and thus, even in the warmest sum-
mers, the surface of moss is always comparatively cold. Besides the
spongy part of the moss, which retains its fibrous texture for many years,
there is a portion of it, especially of the small fungi and lichens with
which it is mixed, that is every year reduced to the consistency of a very
L
138 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
tough and retentive mould. That subsides, closes up the openings of the
spongy roots of the moss, and renders the whole water tight. The reten-
tion of the water is further favourable to the growth of the moss, both in
itself and by means of the additional cold which it produces in the sum-
mer." A very good story is told in Strathardle of a boy's opinion of a
group of noble firs, when he saw them for the first time. His father was
many years keeper to the Duke of Athole, at Falar Lodge, which is many
miles away from any other habitation, and surrounded by huge mountains,
and at which not a tree is to be seen, though it was once the very centre
of the great Caledonian forest. The boy had been born and brought up in
that secluded place, and had never been from home, till one day when he
was well on in his teens he was allowed to accompany his father to
Strathardle. Having never seen a tree of any description, no doubt the
stunted birch and alder trees he saw when going down Glenfernate
astonished him not a little, but when they reached Strathloch, and com-
ing round the corner of the hill, the group of fine firs behind the farm
houses there burst on the wondering youth's view, within a few hundred
yards of him. He stood still with astonishment, wondering what those
huge stems with the tuft of green on the top could be, till at last a happy
idea struck him, and turning to his father, he exclaimed — " Ubh, ubh,
nach e am blaths gu iosal an seo, a ni am muth, seallaibh cho mor 'sa dh'
fhas an cal." — " Ubh, ubh, does not the warmth down here make a
wonderful difference ; see how big the kale has grown." The poor boy
nad never seen anything resembling those trees except the curly kale or
German greens in his father's garden, and so came to the conclusion that
owing to the warmth of the valley the kale had grown to the size of the
fir trees.
FIR, SILVER. — Latin, Finns Picea ; Gaelic, Giuthas Geal. This tree
is a native of Germany, and was introduced into England in 1603 ; and
into Scotland in 1G82, where it was first planted at Inveraray Castle.
One specimen of this tree measured 15 feet in circumference at Castle
Menzies, in 1844.
FIR, SPRUCE. — Latin, Pinus Abies ; Gaelic, Giuthas Loclilanach. The
spruce is a native ot Norway, but was introduced in 1548. It thrives to
perfection in the moist boggy parts of the Highlands, where immense trees
of it are found in many parts of the country, many of them over 100 feet
high.
GEAN, or WILD CHERRY. — Latin, Cerasus Sylvestrix ; Gaelic, Geanais.
This is one of our native wild fruit trees, where it thrives very well in the
low straths, many trees of it being 15 to 18 feet in circumference. The
wood is very hard and beautifully veined, and was much used for making
articles of furniture. Lightfoot says that the fruit of the gean, by fer-
mentation, makes a very agreeable wine, and by distillation, bruised
together with the stones, a strong spirit.
HAZEL. — Latin, Corylus Avellana ; Gaelic, Calltuinn. This native
tree is very common in most parts of the Highlands yet, though, within
the memory of the present generation it has disappeared from many a
glen, where it once grew in thickets. This is caused to some extent by
the increase of sheep and rabbits in the Highlands, especially the latter,
who in time of snow peel the bark off as high as they can reach, killing
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 139
it, of course, very soon. From the great quantity of hazel trees and nuts
dug up from great depths in peat bogs, it is evident that the hazel was
very common all over the country before the destruction of the great
Caledonian forest. It was always a favourite wood for making walking
sticks, and was also used for making baskets and hoops for barrels. Our
ancestors had many curious old superstitions regarding the hazel, and
always considered it a very unlucky tree, though they were fond enough
of the nuts. Of the nuts they made bread sometimes, which they con-
sidered excellent for keeping away hunger on long and fatiguing journeys.
They had also many superstitions regarding the nuts, such as burning
them on Hallowe'en night to see if certain couples would get married ;
and they counted nothing so lucky as to get two nuts naturally joined
together, which they called "Cn6-ch6rnhlaich," and which they considered
a certain charm against all witchcraft.
HORSE-CHESTNUT. — Latin, ^Eesculus hippocastanum ; Gaelic, 'Gheanm-
chno fhiadhaicli. This tree is a native of Asia, and was introduced into
England in 1629, but not into Scotland till 1709. Very large trees
of it are quite common in the Highlands now. The wood is worthless,
but its handsome foliage and sweet-smelling flowers render it very useful
for ornamental purposes.
JUNIPER. — Latin, Juniperis communis ; Gaelic, Aiteann. Next to the
broom and the whin, the juniper is the most common of all our native
shrubs, and it has the advantage over those of producing berries. Those
berries, which have the peculiarity of taking two years to ripen, once
formed no small part of the foreign commerce of the Gael, as we read that
shiploads of juniper berries used to be annually sent from the port of In-
verness to Holland, where they were used for making the famous Geneva
or gin. That trade in the juniper berries continued long, and might have
done so still if the modern art of the chemist had not discovered a cheaper,
but, as is generally the case, an inferior substitute for the juniper berries
in the distillation of Geneva. This will be seen by the following extract
from an old work : — " The true Geneva or gin is a malt spirit distilled a
second time with the addition of juniper berries. Originally the berries
were added to the malt in the grinding, so that the spirit thus obtained
was flavoured with the berries from the first, and exceeded all that could
be made by any other method. But now they leave out the berries
entirely, and give their spirits a flavour by distilling them with a proper
quantity of oil of turpentine, which, though it nearly resembles the flavour
of juniper berries, has none of their valuable virtues." The old High-
landers had very great faith in juniper berries as a medicine for almost
every disease known amongst them, and also as a cure for the bite of any
serpent or venomous beast. In cases of the pestilence, fever, or any in-
fectious disease, fires of juniper bushes were always lighted in or near
their houses, as they believed that the smoke and smell of burning juniper
purified the air, and carried off all infection. The juniper is the badge of
the Athole Highlanders, and also of the Gunns, Rosses, and Macleods.
LABURNUM. — Latin, Gytisus Alpinus; Gaelic, Bealaidh Sasunach.
This tree is a native of Switzerland, and was introduced in 1596. Some
of the largest trees of it in Britain are in Athole, by the roadside be-
tween Blair- Athole and Dunkeld. The old Highlanders used this wood
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for making bagpipes, for which use it is very suitable, being very hard,
fine grained, and capable of taking a very fine polish. Many very old
bagpipes are made of this wood.
LARCH. — Latin, Pinus Lanx ; Gaelic, Laireag. Though not a native
of the Highlands, the larch is now one of our commonest trees, and it
thrives as well here as any of our native trees, as both the soil and the
climate are admirably suited to it. Linnaeus says that its botanical name
" Larix " conies from the Celtic word " Lar," fat ; producing abundance of
resin. Of course the Gaelie name comes from the same. In the Statistical
Account of the Parish of Dunkeld we read: — "Within the pleasure-
grounds to the north-east of the cathedral, are the two noted larches, the
first that were introduced into Britain. They were brought from the
Tyrol, by Menzies of Culdares, in 1738, and were at first treated as green-
house plants. They were planted only one day later than the larches in
the Monzie gardens, near Crieff. The two Dunkeld larches are still (1844)
in perfect vigour, and far from maturity. The height of the highest is
nearly 90 feet, with girth in proportion." Again, in the Account of the
Parish of Monzie we have — " In the garden of Monzie are five larches re-
markable for their age, growth, and symmetry. They are coeval with the
celebrated larches of Dunkeld, having been brought along with them from
the same place, and are now superior to them in beauty and size. The
tallest measures 102 feet in perpendicular height; another is 22 feet in
circumference, and at a distance of 2£ feet from the ground 16 feet, and
throws out branches to the extraordinary distance of 48 and 55 feet from
the trunk. The late Duke of Athole, it would appear, evinced a more
than ordinary interest in the progress of these five trees, sending his
gardener annually thither to observe their growth. When this functionary
returned and made his wonted report, that the larches of Monzie were
leaving those of Dunkeld behind in the race, his Grace would jocularly
allege that his servant had permitted General Campbell's good cheer to
impair his powers of observation." The larch is now very commonly
planted in the Highlands, and there are many extensive plantations of it
which have already attained a great size and value, especially in the dis-
trict of Athole, where, about the beginning of the present century, Duke
John planted some millions of it on the hills north of Dunkeld and
Logierait.
LIME. — Latin, Tilia communes ; Gaelic, Teile. This beautiful tree is
a native of Asia, and was introduced into Scotland in 1664, where it was
first planted at Taymouth Castle, where there are now trees of it nearly
20 feet in circumference. The wood, which though very soft, is close-
grained and very white, was much used by the old Highlanders for carved
work. They also believed the sweet-smelling flowers of this tree to be
the best cure for palpitation of the heart.
MAPLE. — Latin, Acer campestre ; Gaelic, Malpais. This tree is a
native of the southern Highlands of Perthshire and Argyle. It very much
resembles the plane, but does not grow to such a size. The Highlanders
made a wine of the sap of this tree as they did of the birch.
(To be Continued.)
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 141
OUR GAELIC BIBLE.
II.
THE people who use our Gaelic Bible are certainly not the least devout in
"Bible-loving Scotland." They have long borne a high character for
piety. By nature reverent, almost to the verge of superstition, they are
more than most men disposed to bow with awe to the dread sanctions of
the supernatural and the unseen. And as the result on -such a tempera-
ment of a long course of strict religious teaching, not less in the school
than under the parental roof, followed very generally all through life by
the fostering influence of fervid, rousing, evangelical preaching, they have
been famous in a nation proverbially bible-loving for the profound vene-
ration habitually accorded by them to the Divine Authority of the Book.
To it was always their last appeal. Tha e anns an Leabhair was to them
an end of all controversy. Now it is evident that among such a people the
linguistic influence of their Book of Books, which was also practically
their one book, must have been very great. Its every blot or blemish,
by long association with all they held most sacred, was not unlikely to
become, not only faultless, but an actual beauty -spot. And when we re-
member, as was shown in last paper, that their first version of that book
was but a crude transliteration of the Irish Bible, even though the pro-
fessed aim of all subsequent editors has been the removal of Irish idioms,
we feel that a factor was thus introduced nearly two hundred years ago
into the linguistic history of our people, whose force and significance it
were difficult to over estimate.* It is worth remembering also that thus
a question that had to be carefully weighed in regard to the Manx trans-
lation of the Sctiptures, did not at all practically emerge in regard to our
Scotch Gaelic Bible. The Manx translators had the question before
them, " whether they would adopt the principles of the Irish orthography,
or write the language as it was pronounced " in the Isle of Man. And
after full consideration they adopted the latter mode, on the ground that
to have followed the former mode would have made their bible " to the
multitude an unknown tongue." They did so, seemingly, with regret, for
they believed that " by due attention to the orthography and structure of
the language, the connection between roots and compounds might have
been preserved, and its original energy and purity restored." But " the
translators adopted the wise alternative. They regarded the utility of
their work rather than the elucidation of the language, and accordingly took
* Were I disposed to press this point to the utmost, it could well he put more
strongly. For. before Kirke's transliteration, the Irish Bible of Bedel was itself used
presumably to some considerable extent, in the Scottish Highlands. The Hon. Robert
Boyle, not less memorable as physicist, theologian, and founder of the " Boyle Lec-
tures," than as promoter of Christian Missions to India and of translations of the Bible
into many tongues, sent to Scotland far use in the Highlands about a hundred copies of
Bedel's Bible, which had first been printed through his influence, and almost entirely at
his expense. One of these Bibles, now exceedingly rare, is in the library of the Univer-
sity of Queen's Cellege, Kingston, Canada. It was long in possession of the ancient
family ot Colquhoun of Caastraddon. From them it passed to the late Very Rev. Prin-
cipal Macf arlane of Glasgow, at the sale of whose library I purchased it ; and it is placed
in the safe keeping of Queen's College, for the benefit of coming generations of the Gael
in the Far "West, as the best acknowledgment I could make for the hospitality extended
t» me by their fathers iu the Highla&d Settlements of the New World.
142 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
the spoken sound as their rule of orthography " (Kelly's Manx Grammar,
1870, Editor's introduction, p. xiii.). But is it any loss to the language
that they did so ? From the philologist's point of view it is anything but
a loss. To the student of language nothing can he more valuable than
such plwnotypes of the living speech whether of different members of our
great Celtic family in different stages of their divergence, or of the same
branch of the family in successive stages of its history. If the philological
comparison of our abundance of such phonotypes in English has yielded
results so fruitful, even in the case of a language into which has been
thrown the leaven of foreign elements so numerous and seemingly so dis-
cordant, that the " whole lump " seems at first sight monstrous and all
but amorphous, what might we not expect if we had a similar abundance
of materials for linguistic comparison in a family of languages which has ever
kept itself so proudly aloof from foreign taint as the Celtic has done !
And the pity is that in the Scottish Highlands we might indeed have
much more of that precious material than the meagre remnant that
survives. If, for example, Macpherson had remembered that in common
honesty he was under obligation to account for his precious borrowed
manuscripts, at least as much as if they were coupons or bills of exchange,
or if editors and transcribers of old Gaelic manuscripts were ever careful
piously to copy every jot and tittle of originals so precious, because, alas !
so rare, we should have materials at disposal from which the skilled
philologist might evolve on safe ground laws and principles of the utmost
value. But it is vain to mourn a loss which no regrets can remedy. Let us
be thankful that while the good minister of Balquhidder, in the haste of his
holy zeal to give his countrymen the Word of Life, shackled their tongues
with " the principles of Irish orthography," the authors of the Manx Bible
unwittingly brought us a linguistic blessing in disguise, even while
lamenting that in duty to the religion of the Manxman they were con-
strained, as they fancied, to do sore disservice to his language.
But it is time to return- to the Gaelic Bible. Encouraged by the great
demand for their translation of the New Testament, published in 1769,
and trusting to the generosity of the public, the Society for Propagating
Christian Knowledge undertook the expense of translating and printing
the Old Testament " with all the expedition of which the nature of such
an undertaking can admit." It was arranged that the work should appear
in four parts, the first of which was published in 1783. This first portion,
containing the five books of Moses, is usually regarded as the work of the
second Stuart (Dr John, of Luss). It is, indeed, so described more than
once in the Society's minutes, which, through the kindness of Mr John
Wardrobe Tawse, W.S., the writer has had the privilege of consulting.
"But there are in the same minutes undoubted indications of the fact that
Dr Stuart was not the translator of this first part in the sense in which he
was of the third. For example, in a minute dated in November 1 802, a
payment to Dr Stuart of one hundred and fifty guineas is said to have been
made " for his and John and James Macnaughton's trouble in translating,
copying, and supervising the printing of the second and third volumes of
the Gaelic Old Testament, and the second edition of the Gaelic New
Testament." And, still more to perplex the matter, in a brief historical
statement of the work which the Society, beginning in 1769, completed
in 1826, it is stated that by Dr Stuart "the third part had been translated
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. U3
and the two preceding carefully revised" The truth seems to be that from
the first, both by rare fitness for the work and as the son of the first trans-
lator of the New Testament, the younger Stuart took a leading part among
others, his coadjutors, in the translation of the Old Testament ; but as
time and the work proceeded, his connection with it became gradually so
prominent as at last to be paramount. The next part to appear, the
second in time, was the fourth in order. It was beyond question the
independent work of one man — a man of rare ability, and a perfect master
of pure, idiomatic, powerful Gaelic. This was Dr John Smith of Camp-
beltown. "We do not know any Gaelic work, or any piece, short or long,
of Gaelic prose composition, which can at all be compared with it. It is
the only Gaelic translation of any portion of the Scriptures which does
not bear on the face of it conclusive evidence that the Irish Bible was
either very much in the translator's heart or very near his elbow. But
Dr Smith was not to be unduly trammelled by the English Bible any more
than the Irish. Going with competent knowledge to the original Scrip-
tures, and availing himself conscientiously according to his light of all the
results of the Biblical science of the day, his one aim was to enable his
countrymen to see in his translation as he saw in the original, what the
spirit said unto the churches. It is no wonder, then, that in some points
his rendering differed materially from the English. Further on this will
fall to be again considered, when we come to explain how another trans-
lation came to be substituted for Dr Smith's, and we shall give some
extracts which the reader can for himself compare with the version to
which it had to give place. Dr Smith's translation began with Isaiah,
and includes the rest of the prophets. It was published in 1785.
Next came the second part, described in previous minutes as " now
carrying on by Mr Stuart," and reported as printed in 1787. It extends
from Joshua to I. Chronicles. In announcing its publication the directors
of the Society state that " the third part will require considerable time to
finish." They also add, " In a work of this kind it is vain to expect uni-
versal approbation. Some have found fault with the orthography used by
the translators, but the directors have the pleasure to be informed by a
number of gentlemen, who are believed to be amongst the best judges of
the Gaelic language, that the manner in which the translation is executed
meets with their fullest approbation." Seen in the light of subsequent
events there Avould seem to be something prophetic in the directors'
warning that the third part would require " a considerable time " to finish
it. In 1789 they "are sorry to find that from the avocations of the
gentleman who conducts it, as well as from the difficult nature of the work
itself, it is not yet in complete readiness for the press." In the autumn
of 1790 the Secretary, being instructed to write Mr Stuart, was informed
that the work was expected to be "ready for the press in course of
the ensuing winter." April 1791, "Gaelic Bible in the press." Decem-
ber, same year, Mr Stuart is requested to " come to Edinburgh to carry
on the work and finish it if possible in course of the winter." January
1792, Mr Stewart " regrets that he cannot come directly, but is advancing
with the translation, and will come to Edinburgh as speedily as circum-
stances will allow." February, same year, Mr Stuart is again urged to
come to Edinburgh, and his services are bespoken, in addition to the work
already in hand, for a revised edition of his father's Gaelic New Testa-
144 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
ment, which was described in our last paper. On 5th April, same year,
the Secretary, doubtless with a sigh of relief, informs the directors that
" Mr Stuart has come." But still that gentleman's "part third" was far
from the birth. Never did fond deluded parent wait and pray for the
event which was to crown his bliss, as the directors of the Society all
these years waited on Mr Stuart of Luss for the long-looked-for " part
third." Now with wistful desire rising at times to joyful hope, now with
doubt and sore misgiving, anon with fretful impatience and rising anger,
they waited on. At one time they pleaded with him, at another, in a
very dignified way of course, they scolded him, and at another they
stirred up his pure mind by way of remembrance. They angled for him
with the silver hook, and, careful as they have ever been of the purse-
strings, they even tried the golden. At last, on 1st June 1797, their
wrath could be pent up no longer. It burst forth in the thunder of the
following minute : — "A report having gone abroad, owing to the long delay
which has taken place in publishing the Old Testament Scriptures in
Gaelic, that the Society did not wish to publish the whole Scriptures into
that language ; and the committee considering that the delay of publish-
ing the translation is of material disservice to the interest of religion, they,
for that reason, have caused Dr Stuart of Luss to be written to, signifying
that they can admit of no further procrastination, and requesting him
either to proceed instantly with the printing of his translation, or to
favour them with his manuscript for being sent to the press under the
care of a person qualified to take the superintendence of it. And what
remains untranslated to be committed to the care of some other persons
in the Highlands who will readily undertake the office."
This seems to have had the desired effect. For on 2d January 1800
the directors report to a general meeting of the Society that " Dr Stuart
of Luss's translation of the books of Job and the Psalms into Gaelic, is
now printed," and on 5th June 1801 they report that "the third and last
volume of the Gaelic Bible, translated by Dr John Stuart, is some time
ago printed." The date on the title-page is 1801.
The whole Bible being now happily translated into Gaelic, the Society
set themselves eagerly to consider how it could best be brought within
the reach of the Highland people. Published in four different portions,
which appeared at various and distant intervals, from 1783 to 1801, it
was found that only five hundred complete copies of the Old Testament, and
these in an expensive and inconvenient form, were available for distribu-
tion. In order therefore to fulfil their mission, and to enable them to
keep " the engagement of the Society with those parishes in the High-
lands which contributed towards the expense of the translation," it was
resolved to arrange for publishing a cheap edition of the Old Testament
corresponding to the type and size of the New Testament published in
1796. This edition will be noticed in a subsequent paper.
The expense of producing the Old Testament in Gaelic is stated by
Reid at £2,300, to which fall to be added, according to the same autho-
rity, £700 for the Gaelic Testament of 1767, and £882 for that of 1796.
This makes in all the goodly sum of £3,882 spent by the Society from
1767 to 1801 in giving the Word of Life to our people. At this distance
of time, and without an exhaustive search of the voluminous minutes and
the accounts of the Society, it would be impossible with confidence to
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 145
check the accuracy of these figures. But our search, so far as it has gone,
satisfies us that Reid had free access to the books of the Society when
preparing his BIBLIOTHECA SCOTO-CELTICA, and that he made his extracts
with care and great fullness. We could, indeed, trace his " trail " every-
where in turning over the ponderous records of this the oldest religious
association in Scotland. And it is certain that Reid did not overstate
the expenditure of the Society in this noble work when he put it down
at £3882. Where did the Society get all this money — a very large sum
at that early period? And be it remembered that at the same time they
had many other expensive agencies in operation. They had already their
schools in all parts of the Highlands and islands, and they conducted ex-
pensive missionary operations, chiefly among the Indians of America, but
also among the Tartars of Western Asia. Part of the money, estimated
by Reid at £1400, came from church collections ordered by the General
Assembly in 1782, 1783, and 1784. Large sums came from London,
where a branch of the Society, patronised not only by such Scottish
noblemen as the Duke of Athole and the Earl of Kinnoul, but by Royalty
itself, and warmly encouraged by the bishops and high dignitaries of the
Church of England, did excellent service to the cause. But can there any
good thing come out of Burton-on-Trent ? Famous as are to-day all over
the Highlands the names of Allsop and Bass, not less famous as mighty
hunters than for the beverage which bears their names, who amongst us
would ever dream of associating in any way the Gaelic Bible with that
curious little town in Staffordshire, whose name they have made,
the wide world's synonym for bitter beer? And yet the two are
in fact very closely connected. For Mr Isaac Hawkins, a solicitor
of Burton, was one of the earliest and most liberal benefactors of
the Society. In the time of the Society's greatest need, after careful
inquiry into its work, he gave a donation of £10,000. He gave that mag-
nificent donation in his life-time, and with such admirable precautions for
the preservation of secrecy that it was not till four years after his death,
in 1800, at the great age of 91, that even the directors learned the name
of their benefactor.
With another extract from the Society's minutes we close this paper.
On 4th March 1802 they unanimously resolved "that a complete copy of
the Gaelic Bible be given to each company of the forty-second or Royal
Highland Regiment, with a suitable inscription on each copy to mark the
Society's esteem of the good behaviour of that Regiment on all occasions
and of the services they have done to the country." A copy of the
Gaelic New Testament and Psalms, similarly inscribed, was also ordered
to be given " to such of the non-commissioned officers and privates in the
Regiment who understood Gaelic as the Secretary may think proper."
Truth demands that we should add the fact mournfully set forth a few
pages onwards, that the directors " having learned that few comparatively
of the men of the Forty-second can read or even understand Gaelic, there-
fore ordered the Secretary to give each of them a copy of the English
Bible."
The edition of 1807, and especially a comparison of Dr Smith's trans-
lation of the Prophets with that which then superseded it, must be re-
served for another paper.
DONALD MASSON, M.A., M,D.
146 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
REMNANTS OF GAELIC POETRY.
III.
MACPHERSON of Strathmashie, like most of the bards, was an admirer of
the fair sex. In the following poem he gives a description of the object
of his admiration. He imagines that the condition of the man who could
call her his own would be truly enviable. If he were to be that happy
individual he would be careful to behave in every way in such a manner
as would be worthy of her. After enumerating her various good qualities,
he concludes by confessing that any description he can give of one so
much to be admired, and so excellent, is altogether inadequate.
BOIRIONNACH OG.
Tha boirionnach 6g, 's thug mi toigh dhi thar chach
Ei f haicinn an ait air chor-eigin,
Na 'm bu loams' o 'n st61-phosd' i dheanainn 16n di gu brath
Fhad 's a mhaireadh mo shlaint' a' s m' f hallaineachd,
Ged bhithinn a stbras air seana ch6ta tana,
Gun tuilleadh gu m' ordugh fhad 's bu bheo mi bhiodh arad aic,
Shiubhlainn gu deonach an Eoinn-Eorp agus barr
Mu 'm faigheadh i fath air aithreachas.
A reir mar a shonruichinn dh' orduichinn trath,
An deigh mo bhais gu 'm biodh gearradh aic,
Na 'n tarladh e somhail bhiodh a coirichean-s' ann,
Ged chuireadh e 'chlann gu gearan orm,
Dheauainn tigh 'in biodh i stigh reir mo staid innealta,
Learn bu toigh i bhi 's a' chladh mar bhiodh gach leth-bhreac dhi,
B' fhearr learn na ainnis i bhi barracht' thar chach
Ged chosdainn cluas mail li ceannaichean.
Cha bhiodh o gu dilinn ri inns' aig mac mna
Gu 'm faigheadh i dranndan-teallaich uam,
Cha chuirinn beul siod' orm gun an fhirinn 'n a shail,
A' togar an drasda bhi mealladh oirr',
Dh' innsiim lein m' inntinn di, bhithinn fior thairis rith',
Chleachdainn ni, chaisginn stri, ghlacainn i ceanalta,
Ghabhainn an fhiodhull, 's mar bhitheadh e ann,
Bheirinn am port-danns' bu toigh leath' dhi,
'S cha bhiodh e gu dilinn ri inns' aig mac mna
Gu 'n cluinntoadh droch canain eadarainn,
Bheireadh feabhas a naduir, a cairdeas, 's a blathais
0 'n duine 's neo-ghrasail am Breatann sin,
'N uair bhiodh es' ann am brais 's a chiall-ceart beag aige,
Bhiodh a tlachd 'n a thoirt as, 's bu ro phailt beadradh dha,
Labhradh i, " 'N" sgreatachd cha fhreagair mi 'n tras
Mu 'n toir sin do chach droch theisteas oirnn."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 147
'N uair dh' f hasadh e soitheamh 's a shumhlaicheadh 'f hearg
Chuireadh ise le 'seanachas fallus air,
'G a rusgadh an stoldach 's an ordugh neo-shearbh,
Mu '11 tugadh mi-shealbh dha thighinn thairis air,
Mur dean sud, aic- tha fios, duine glic ro mhaith dheth,
Bu ro mhios casadh ris 'n uair bhiodh friodh conuis air,
0 na b' e 'n t-ordugh ged bu choinnt' e na 'n tarbh
Gu 'n biodh i le 'crannchur toilichte.
Tha i anabarrach cruadalach 's truas aic an daimh,
Fior ghleusd' anns gach am, geur-bharalach,
Ged shiubhailt' shios agus shuas, deas 'us tuath 's na 'm blieil ann,
Cha 'n f haight' iad ach gann a thug barrachd oirr',
B' e mo mhiann gu 'm b' e 'n rian gu 'm biodh biadh 'n gairios di,
'S i bhi triallmhor g' a dheanamh, 's ro f hial uime i,
Ged shiubhail thu 'n cruinne cha choinnich thu te
'S lugha ardain no speis do thaghanachd.
Gruaidh dhearg a 's glan rughadh mar tibhal air crann,
Cul buidhe, corp seang, gnuis shoilleir aic,
Troidh chvuinn am broig chumhainn a ni siubhal gun spairn,
B' i an t-iongantas anns gach cruinneachadh,
Mar an diugh air a chur sneachdadh tiugh broilleachail,
'S geal mo lur, 's caoin a guth, 's grinn a cruth, 's loinneil i,
Fo f habhradaibh goirid suilean meara neo-mhall,
'S da chich chorraish aird mar lili oirr'.
Gach mir dhi r' a f haicinn bu mhaiseach a dh' f hag
An Ti a rinn sgathan cuimir dhith,
0 mhullach a baistidh gus an seachnar an t-sail
A' toirt barrachd air each na h-uile ball,
Cia mar dh' inntrig mi fein air an ni dhuilich so,
Innseadh tirinn na riomhainn 's nach ti cumant i ?
'S e bheir gach aon duin' an am sgur dhomh droch thaing,
0 nach b' urrainn mi ann mar bhuineadh dhi,
A stanza which has been forgotten concludes with the words : —
'S truagh nach bard ro mhaith a tha barraicht" an cainnt
Bhiodh a' gabhail os laimh a bhi tarruing rith'.
SEANACHAIDH.
BOOKS EECEIVED. — " Eose and Thistle," a handsome illustrated vol-
ume of Poems, by William Allan, who has become so deservedly such a
favourite with our readers ; also, " Genealogical Tables of the Clan Mac-
kenzie," by Major Mackenzie of Findon, a most painstaking and valuable
work. We shall again return to these. Another very readable and neatly
got up book received is " A Shining Waif and other Stories," by Wm.
Canton.
148 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
THE CALEDOOTAK BAKK DISASTER
THE fall of the Caledonian Banking Company is, not excepting the High-
land Clearances, the greatest calamity that ever befel the Korth of Scot-
land. Here was, to all appearance, a thriving, powerful, and well-managed
institution, with its head office and directorate in the Highland Capital,
pre-eminently a Highland institution in every respect but one ; but that one
exception has landed it, and with it the north of Scotland, in ruin. Men
who, advanced in years, thought they had enough in their latter days to
live comfortably on, and afterwards make comfortable provision for their
families, are now penniless. Widows and orphans, who had their all
invested in the bank, are now in absolute poverty and despair. Trade is
ruined, agriculture paralized, and enterprise crushed. And how was this
brought about ? By a piece of the most careless, reckless, and infatuated
(we had almost said culpable) mismanagement that any one could
conceive possible. It is well known that there were three other ways of
holding the City of Glasgow Bank shares, either of which would have
been equally secure for the Caledonian Bank, and enable it to keep clear
of any liability as a contributory. But this blunder was not an isolated
case of reckless speculation by the management. It appears that almost
since the very beginning they have been constantly trafficking, or
rather speculating in the stocks of other banks, and so increasing the
liability of the shareholders more than twenty-fold by holding the shares
of institutions, like their own, with a liability absolutely unlimited. It is
stated on reliable authority that when the City of Glasgow Bank closed its
doors, the Caledonian Banking Company held shares in other banks, which
made the shareholders of the Company personally liable for about fifty
millions of money each. They were shareholders in the Clydesdale
Bank, in the Bank of Scotland, in the Union Bank of Scotland, as well
as in that stupendous swindle which has desolated the land, the City of
Glasgow Bank, and five others ; thus making the shareholders of the Cale-
donian Banking Company liable for the total liabilities of these nine banks,
amounting in all to fifty or sixty millions, in addition to their own. This may
be good management from a banker's point of view ; but certainly, although
it has been so described, probably in ignorance of the above facts, by the
whole press of the country almost without exception, we have no hesitation
in expressing a different opinion, and holding it to be mismanagement of
the very worst description. To call it anything else can serve no good
purpose, and would not be in accordance with the facts.
In the face of this it was surely bordering on the criminal to send out
"authorised" statements in the newspapers that the four unfortunate
shares in the City of Glasgow Bank were held on behoof of, or in trust
for, a customer or client of the bank, who, it was said, was quite able to
meet any calls which might be made on the Compan^ in connection with
them. This cannot, in candour, be described as a mere suppression of
the facts, but must, by all honest men, be characterised as a deliberate
attempt — and, to a large extent, successful attempt — to mislead the
public ; and we know several cases in which shares were bought on the
faith of this " authorised " untruth. "We, and many others in Inverness,
THE CELTIC MAGAZIKE. 149
knew perfectly well who the owner of the shares was, and that he \vas
not good for any such thing, but when any one dared to say so, he was
at once pounced upon and charged with saying what was not true, and
acting unpatriotically to the bank.
In spite of, and knowing all this, the officials of the bank coolly come
forward publicly to screen their own misconduct and recklessness, and
charge depositors and shareholders with having been the cause of the
present lamentable state of the bank. We quote the following from a
circular issued by the directors and signed on their behalf by the
manager : — " It (liquidation) has been caused by the uneasy feeling
which the indefiniteness of the claims of the City of Glasgow Bank upon
this Bank created among the depositors, and principally and immediately
to the panic among the shareholders having led to action on the part of
the liquidators of the City of Glasgow Bank. Had all the shareholders
stood loyally to this bank, the business might have been continued until
the liquidation of the City of Glasgow Bank had so far proceeded as that
the claim against this bank might have been estimated and compromised.
The timid shareholders who, impelled by panic, have endeavoured to save
themselves at the expense of others, are thus, in a great measure respon-
sible for the result." Could anything be more out of place ? more incon-
sistent with the known facts? And there is a cool audacity about the charge
and the manner in which it is made which is quite unique. The bank was in
everybody's mouth about the shuffling and pensioning of prominent officials,
which led outsiders to fear that it was fast becoming a family affair.
The mismanagement already referred to, and the enormous liabilities incurred,
were becoming generally known. It was also becoming extensively cir-
culated that members of the directorate had heavy overdrafts with no
immediate available securities to cover them. It became known that the
statements issued or " authorised " by the management about the City
Bank shares were not true. It also became known that the personal
friends and immediate relatives of some of the directors were disposing of
their shares in the Caledonian Bank and lifting their deposits, and in the
face of all this the other shareholders and depositors, who naturally be-
came alarmed, were publicly charged with having brought about the
failure of the bank. In such circumstances a shareholder, who found
any one foolish enough to relieve him, ought to have considered it
his first duty to protect his own interests and that of his immediate
connexions, by getting rid of such huge responsibilities at once, and at
any immediate sacrifice. And the same holds equally true of the de-
positors. Many of them would in a short time require the money for
their business or other purposes ; and were they not acting — and very
properly so — according to the first law of nature — that of self-preserva-
tion— and the dictates of common prudence in withdrawing their money,
and placing it where it would be available when circumstances re-
quired its use in their business transactions, or to meet other looming
claims? To do otherwise, in the knowledge of the facts, would have been
folly of the worst kind — a culpable disregard of the ordinary precautions
of life ; and a disregard which a banker, in different circumstances, and
when his own institution was not involved, would consider unpardon-
able, and of such a character as to justify him in refusing advances to any
customer guilty of such conduct.
150 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
It is affirmed that the Caledonian Bank has proved of immense
service to the Highlands by its liberal encouragement of trade, agriculture,
and other commercial enterprises. This is admitted on all hands, and
there is naturally a strong and unanimous desire that the company should
be resuscitated, the note issue saved, and the business of the bank
resumed as early as possible. We strongly sympathise with this
feeling ; but the difficulty or practicability of carrying it out cannot be
overlooked, arid if success is possible at all, it can only be attained by
looking all the difficulties in the face, and getting them out of the way if
possible. The first and greatest difficulty of all is that raised by the
directors themselves when they signed away the business of the bank and
the rights and interests of the shareholders by that suicidal agreement
with the liquidators of the City of Glasgow Bank and the managers of
the other Scotch Banks ; and it appears to us that if that agreement is
confirmed by the shareholders, resuscitation becomes at once an absolute
impossibility. And why 1 Once the company goes into liquidation the
note issue is lost. This itself — the loss of £53,000 of a circula-
tion against which no coin requires to be kept, is almost insurmountable
for what will then be only the wreck of a small institution competing
with the existing powerful Scotch Banks still entitled to trade on
a large inflated note circulation, for which they hold no security
or any description of assets. But apart from this — by Sir Robert
Peel's Act of 1844 — when a quarter of the capital is lost, the note
issue is gone, while here we have, by the action of the directors, if the
agreement is confirmed, already practically paid over the whole paid-up
capital. The next difficulty is almost as great, if not quite as great an
obstacle as the first; the difficulty — indeed, the absolute certainty — of
getting no prudent person after the present disclosures to take shares in
any unlimited company. And if the Bank be started or resuscitated on
the limited principle, no one will be found to entrust the new company
with deposits, while other banks offer him an unlimited security.
The only chance of starting a new Highland Bank, under prudent
management, is to have it founded on a gold issue alone, with an
arrangement, like some of the English Banks, to issue Bank of
England notes with the name of the local bank upon them. This arrange-
ment would induce the Northern public to receive the notes of the
Bank of England with greater favour than they now do. No doubt
the loss of the present note issue of £53,000 would be strongly
felt ; but, after all, it would not be so serious as to prove insurmount-
able. The loss in round numbers would only be, calculating it at
£5 per cent, on the whole note issue, about £2500 per annum, or
under £10 per cent, of the total profits made by the Bank last year,
which was over £26,000. That is, it would reduce the dividend from
£14 to £12 10s per cent, or thereabout, leaving a very handsome profit
to the shareholders. Further, a note issue, without a corresponding
amount of coin, is founded on a rotten and fast-exploding principle, and
comparatively weakens the position of the Bank having it, as
against one without ; for there is nothing but the share Capital of the
Company to meet the notes when they are presented for payment. On
the other hand, as soon as it became known and understood that the new
Bank had no such inflated unsecured liabilities in this respect as the other
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 151
Banks, confidence in the institution would be at once increased ; Deposits
would naturally come in to a much greater amount, and thus enable the
management to earn a sufficient profit on these to make up, and probably
far exceed, any deficiency arising from the loss of the note issue.
For the reasons already given, it would be unwise to establish the Bank
on the limited liability principle, while the other Banks continued to be un-
limited ; but in whatever way the question of the liability of Joint Stock
Banks and other Companies may finally settle itself, the right to issue
notes, without a corresponding amount of coin, now held by the Scotch
Banks, cannot long be continued on its present footing. Let us then start
our new Highland Bank on such a sound and solid basis as will at once
secure to it the confidence of our Northern proprietors, of the general pub-
lic, and, at the same time, the approval of all the enlightened financiers of
our time. Thus, we shall have a Highland Bank which shall become an
example to the whole country. In addition to the special difficulties pe-
culiar to itself — such as having to begin almost at the bottom of the lad-
der, and the fact that many of those who would most willingly support a
local institution are already practically ruined — the new Bank will have
to contend against the general disinclination of capitalists to invest
in future in any Joint Stock Company with unlimited liability.
This feeling, however, will weaken present institutions to a material
degree, and comparatively reduce the difficulties of a new Bank
established on a solid commercial basis, with a gold issue, and without
the inflated liability of an unsecured note circulation. No one possessed
of ordinary prudence will continue to invest his money in Scotch Bank
shares as these institutions are at present constituted. As soon as people
will be found sufficiently imprudent to buy, present holders will sell out
at anything short of ruination prices ; but at present they are bound to
hold on, for the simple reason that they will get no one almost at any
price to buy. The value of Bank shares will inevitably fall, and with it
the position and stability of the existing Banks in public estimation, as
safe investments.
That these Banks have behaved in the most ungenerous manner to the
Caledonian Bank is the opinion of every unbiassed person capable of form-
ing one from the materials hitherto published. And it is hardly to be
expected that they will lend any material aid to a Highland Bank esta-
blished on a different and more solid foundation than their own, but this
may in the end prove rather an advantage. Had the Caledonian Banking
Company kept clear of the southern Banks and other speculative invest-
ments, and depended more on its own resources, carefully investing its
money in small amounts nearer home, it would have been to-day in a
flourishing position, quite independent of those who seem to have taken
a delight in swallowing it up — as the whirlpool does the noble ship which
a careless or incompetent captain and crew allow to drift out of her proper
and safe course — and appropriating, with unabashed voracity, its entire
business.
Where was the legal adviser of the Bank when it was allowed to get
involved in this ruinous manner ? It is commonly reported that he was
never even consulted about the transfer of Mr Connacher's shares ; and
this we can easily believe when, as we now find, it was the common prac-
tice of the Directors to deal in other Bank Stock. It would be well to
152 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
have this matter cleared up, as, in the absence of an explanation, the
rumours abroad and the apparent contradictions in the public statements
of the Law Adviser, the Manager, and one of the most prominent of the
Directors, who has already feathered his own nest, is not calculated to tell
in favour of the legal adviser of the Bank.
The proposed appointment of the Manager, assistant Manager, and one
of the Directors as Liquidators of the Bank, has been freely commented
on, and by some construed as an attempt on their part, and on the part
of the other Banks, to avoid any unpleasant disclosures, especially as the
successful efforts of the shareholders to procure an independent statement
of the Bank's affairs from a qualified accountant has produced such oppo-
sition from, and apparent consternation in, official quarters.
The indecent haste with which some of the officials of the
bank ran away, like rats from a sinking ship, to take up their post in the
ranks of the destroyer, needs no comment here. Their conduct will
assuredly consign them to their proper position amongst us, and, we have
no doubt, for ever settle their claims on their countrymen and fellow
townsmen.
Like all other great calamities, this has one redeeming feature.
In small communities like ours, men who acquire position and power —
very often by no merits of their own — assume an importance and an air
of superiority which by degrees become oppressive and injurious to the best
interests of the community. These men become the gods of society. A
serious look or a compressed wrinkle of the brow soon comes to be ac-
cepted as the sign of a great intellect concocting or maturing
schemes which will some day surprise their fellows by great and
brilliant results. A knowing nod of the head or a shrug of the shoulder
indicates the profound superiority of the god above ordinary men. A
successful stroke of business or a fortunate speculation with other people's
money is at once voted as the result of a splendid genius. Any one who
does not bow and scrape to these great ones of our small community, and
who exhibits any ability or independence, at once becomes a special target
for their shafts, and must be immediately put down and crushed,
else he may by-and-bye show that the superiority of those holier-
than-thou nabobs is a mere assumption after all, and nothing
more. And this would be ruinous — would never do. One of the ad-
vantages— and they are few in all conscience — of the failure of the Cale-
donian Bank will be to bring many of these local potentates to their natural
level among their kind, and let the world see that they are only ordinary
men like the rest of us. Brains, ability, and independence of mind will
then have a fair chance ; and he that best deserves it will generally
secure the greatest success in the race of life. This huge local oppres-
siveness will make way for a healthier atmosphere, and that itself will be
no small boon.
Since the above was in type, the plucky conduct of the shareholders
has prevailed so far as to induce the City of Glasgow Bank Liquidators to
reconsider their determination to force the Caledonian Banking Company
into liquidation, and at the meeting of shareholders held in Inverness on
the 1 7th of January the Directors of our local institution consented, with-
out the threatened opposition, and with the best grace possible in the
altered circumstances, to an adjournment for one month. A. M,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
THE GAELIC SOCIETY OF INVERNESS.
o
THE annual dinner of tbis Society came off on the evening of the 14fch January, and,
thanks mainly to the excellent Chairman, Sir Kenneth S. Mackenzie, Bart., of Gairloch,
and the complete arrangements made by the Secretary, it was, censidering the present
depression amongst us, an unexpected success. The Chairman made a thoughtful,
sensible, and thoroughly practical speech on the West Coast crofter, and on the work of
the Gaelic Society during the last four years. We regret that for want of sp.xce we can
only give his introductory remarks, which were as follows :— Four years ago, when
I had the honour of occupying this chair, I availed myself of the opportunity to
recount what this Society had done to fulfil the object of its institution, and to-night, in
proposing the toast of the evening, allow me first of all to refer shoitly to something of
what has taken place in the four years that have since elapsed, for which the Society
may take a share of credit. The Celtic Chair has become an accomplished fact— (cheers)
— thanks to the energy of our friend, Professor Blackie, but thanks also to the feeling on
which the Professor was able to work. To our Society also, backed by the efforts of the
Member for this town, it is due principally, if not entirely, that the Scotch Education
Department has recognised the Gaelic language as a fit medium of instruction. Then a
new magazine devoted to Highland literature and Highland interests has been established
by your former excellent Secretary, and though it is in no way under our control, it very
efficiently promotes some of the objects we have set before us, and it is not, I think, too
much to say that the idea of providing such a periodical would never have taken shape
but for our Society's existence. Again, only the other day, our Society took a prominent
part in promoting a federal union of Celtic Societies. Many papers have been published
in the Society's Transactions of permanent interest and value. I may fairly congratulate
you, the Gaelic Society of Inverness, on having maintained an active and useful life.
(Applause.) The Celtic Magazine, to which I hare alluded, is now in its fourth year,
and is, I believe, an assured success. It concluded its second volume with an essay on the
" Poetry and Prose of a Highland Croft," which attracted so much observation that our
leading Scottish journal thought it worth sending a special commissioner to the West
Highlands to report on the West Coast crofter. The Commissioner's letters were of
course widely read. The Scotsman itself could see in the croft system only an unmiti-
gated evil ; others (like the Highlander in this town) could see in it nothing but good ;
while athirdpaity, admitting the misery spoken of by the Celtic Magazine and the Scotsman^
Commissioner, thought that by legislation the crofter's position might be brought back
to that of an ideal past. Differing as I do from the views of all those, I should like to
give you my own opinion upon it. (Applause.) I am only going to speak of the crofter
population, as we now find it in the West, living by manual labour, and whose condition
to be rightly judged of, must be compared with that of unskilled labourers elsewhere in
Britain. Now there may be very little poetry in rising at five and being at work to six,
in labouring ten hours a-day in summer, and from daylight to dark in winter, but the
ordinary agricultural labourer finds no hardship in it, neither should the crofter. The
hardship of his lot lies not in any toil or slavery to be endured at home, but in the fact
that his croft under present conditions does not produce enough to maintain himself and
his family, and that day's wages are not to be earned in the neighbourhood. So he has
to leave his home to eke out a livelihood, and being naturally tempted to return when-
ever he has gathered what he hopes will pull him through the year, he seldom has to
spare ; while, if work is scarce, or the fishing bad, or the harvest a failure, there may be
absolute want. There is then no question that the West Coast crofter seldom finds
himself able to indulge in luxury. But despite the hardships, not one crofter in ten de-
sires to remove with his family to some other part of the country for regular employ-
ment. He has miseries undoubtedly. Who has not ? But, however invisible they may
be to others, he has advantages which make him prefer his present fate to any that lies
open to him elsewhere. If I may so put it, the bad prose of his life is tempered by a
poetry which to him makes life more enjoyable than where it is all prose, even of a
better kind. It is a fact, that for no increase of material plenty will he give up his pre-
sent surroundings, and surely he knows better than his critics what tends most to his
own happiness. But I not only maintain that his actual condition now is better than
that of his predecessors of the same class, and that his circumstances have improved, and
are improving. At what period were the crofters better off in the Highlands than now ?
Before the Union the Highlands were a scene of anarchy. The records, such as they
are, tell chiefly of feuds, harrying, revenges, battles, murders, and sudden deaths. The
prose in those days had no doubt a good deal of poetry, but even the West Highland
crofter el to day would not think the compensation sufficient.
M
154 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
THE GLENALMOND Hit iJlLANDEKS IX THE KILT.—
AWAY sonic live miles from one of those many spots where Ossian is said
to lie buried, in the pass of Almond, and eleven miles across the moun-
tains from Dail-chillin, at Loch Fraoch, where, according to some, is
Fingal's last resting place, is a stately pile of buildings, reminding the
traveller of the more ancient colleges by the Isis and the Cam, and situ-
ated in the midst of a most romantic and mountainous country. This
pile is well and widely known as Trinity College, Glenalmond, opened as
a public school in 1847. In 1875 a great fire took place which destroyed
part of the buildings, in consequence of which the theological department,
originally affiliated to the school, was removed to Edinburgh in perpetuity,
so that it is now a public school pure and simple, on the same lines as the
great English schools of Eton, Harrow, and Winchester, and is intended
to save the aristocracy and the lairds the trouble and great expense of
sending their sons to England. This is just the kind of Home Rule we
believe in. Why should not Scotland be able to educate her own sons ?
To show the non-sectarian character of the school, it may be mentioned
that about half the boys are members of the Established and Free Churches
of Scotland. While it is pleasant to be able to note this, our object on
the present occasion is to congratulate the College, its staff, and the com-
mander of its Eifle Volunteer Corps, founded four years ago, on the
national spirit which induced them the other day to adopt the Highland
garb as the uniform of the corps. The tartan, selected after consultation
with the Duke of .Athole — who is also Viscount Glenalmond, and whose
ancestors owned the district — is the Hunting Murray, and when the men
are in full uniform they wear the Athole badge — a sprig of juniper, in
their Glengarry bonnets. Well done Young Glenalmond ! They have
already established their reputation at Wimbledon. Last year Private
Montgomery, a member of the corps, after a tie with the Cheltenham and
Charterhouse teams, won the Spencer Cup, open to the best individual
shots from the great public schools. The appropriate motto of the corps
— " Soirbheachadh le Gleann Amuinn " — will, we are sure, be echoed by
every old Gleualmond boy who reads this short notice of the junior com-
pany of Highlanders in Athole, so efficiently commanded by Captain
W. E. Frost.
GENEALOGICAL NOTES AND QUERIES.— It has been suggested
that we should open a Genealogical Note and Query Column in the
Celtic Magazine, and so aid those interested and engaged in tracing the
genealogies of Highland families. The idea is a good one, and we shall
be glad to set apart a certain amount of space monthly for the purpose.
The Magazine now finds its way into almost all the principal families in
the North of Scotland ; and it will afford us great pleasure to insert any
queries to throw light on any difficult or disputed case of genealogy or
succession which any one may send us, the only condition being that
parties shall send their full names and addresses in confidence. Many of
our subscribers will be found able and willing to answer them.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 155
ptentture.
THE GAELIC ETYMOLOGY OF THE LANGUAGES OF WESTERN EUROPE,
and more especially of the English and Lowland Scotch, and of their Slang, Cant,
and Colloquial Dialects. By CHARLES MACKAY, LL.D., Fellow of the Koyal
Society of Antiquaries, Denmark.
FIRST NOTICE.
IT is true of every word, as surely as of every person, that it has its
history, and sometimes a very instructive history it may prove ; and it is
the province of the etymologist to furnish the true account of it (etymos=
true, and logos=vfovd) and not the fabulous. It is equally true that every
word has a double history — that of its form, and that of its meaning.
The etymologist who would fulfil his task in a trustworthy manner must,
therefore, make himself acquainted first of all with the oldest forms of
that language which he is using as a key, and that not merely in the
narrow groove of one of its dialects, but on the broad basis of all, together
with as many as possible of its cognate languages. A word-detective as
the etymologist is, he must be able, moreover, to discover the disguises,
not only of his own country, but of those countries into which he may
enter in pursuit of runaways. Should an enterprising Celt take a fancy
to a Chateau-en-Espagne, as a detective he should be able to show that
he is a stranger there, and that in this country are to be found his father,
mother, brothers, and sisters. It is essential also to return to the lang-
uage with which he professes to unlock the anomalies of other languages,
that he be endowed with a keen perception of the peculiarities of its
idiom, so as to discover at a glance what is admissible and what is not.
On the other hand, as regards the element of meaning, none can be an
adept in etymology who is not gifted with special insight into the natural
sequence and harmony of ideas — the laws by which the mind advances
from the literal to the metaphorical, from the concrete to the abstract.
We are compelled to say that these elementary qualifications seem to
be sadly awanting in the author of this book. Instead of a critic, the
book calls loudly for an apologist, and he who would defend it
wisely and truthfully must set out by disclaiming as untenable by far the
larger portion of its Gaelic etymologies ; and after he has done so, there
remains for him no light work in sifting and rectifying the remainder, and
placing it on such a footing as would command the attention of Gaelic
scholars. We could assure Dr Mackay, should he care for such assurance,
that being specially interested in kindred pursuits, we had every inclina-
tion to give his book a cordial welcome. We could join hands with
him in his warm Celtic sympathies, his love of Gaelic etymology,
and even in the point of view which must have suggested the title of his
book ; but no sooner had we glanced over its pages than we found our-
selves confronted with the problem — given an author of acknowledged
merit, on whose well-won laurels on other fields all could cordially con-
gratulate him — to account for this truly defective production. Surely, we
thought, this author must have a strong strand of waggery in his mental
texture, and he is practising upon the risible faculties of his countrymen.
When he gives us, as the etymology of Europe, europach = not ropy, not
156 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
tawdry ; for the "French, careme, lent, = Cath-reim, order of battle, be-
cause lent is "the order of 'battle against the lusts of the flesh," we could
aver that the author must have bad a merry twinkle in his eye. This,
however, and other theories failed us at last, but when we found Dr
M. couching his Gaelic lance at such Hebrew expressions as hallelujah,
amen, not to mention the mene, mene, &c., we bethought us of an old book
which has lain on our shelves for several years, and as we believe that
it is mainly accountable for the peculiar style of etymology which per-
vades this book, we must refer to it somewhat more particularly. In 1 799
there was confined in Fort-George an Irish notability of the name of
O'Connor, who styles himself Gear- Rige= hoary or high chief of his
people. He was imprisoned by the British Government on a charge of
treason, but on his own. showing, and he may have been right, for his
incorruptible patriotism. Be this as it may, he published, or there was
published for him, a book in two volumes — the first containing what he
calls his Demonstration, and the second his Chronicles of Eri. The
demonstration consists in applying a so-called Irish key to Greek,
Latin, and other Aryan vocables, and while within this area the
etymology is sometimes not amiss, but then he goes full tilt at any thing
in any language. In the scripture name, Chedorlaomar, King of Elam,
0'ConnordiscoversthefourelementsCe'=earth — dorisdu'ur= water — laom
= fire and ar or athar=air. The Phenician town, Sidon,is Sgadan= herring,
for does not Pliny leave it on record that the coast of Sidon was a favourite
resort of fish ! On such etymologies he elaborates a Chronicle of Ireland
equally reliable with the foundation on which it rests. Now we confess
for ourselves that we owe this book a grudge, for at a time when we were
sufficiently credulous in such matters, it set us oif on a wild-goose chase,
rummaging in every old Irish book within our reach, trying to authen-
ticate the vocables with which this worthy divined, till at length we
were driven to the conclusion that several of them had no existence but in
his own brain, in which sense and nonsense had become so hopelessly
intertwined as to defy any prospect of disentanglement. The most feasible
theory on which a considerable portion of Dr M.'s etymologies can be
explained is, we are persuaded, the O'Connor mania. Some of his
wildest, or next to the Avildest, etymologies we have found in O'Connor's
" Demonstration." The Gaelic Hallejujah is found there, and somewhat
more candidly than Dr Mackay he renders it alloil-laaidh = dismal praise,
and to be consistent stoutly maintains that the Jews mode of praise was
very dismal ! This might pass for etymology in 1 799 — and yet Edward
Lhuyd published his noble Archaeologioi in 1707, nearly a century
earlier; but how so intelligent a writer as Dr Mackay undoubtedly is,
could expose himself and his language to the mockery of Sabbath school
children by this grotesque rendering of hallelujah (if we must gravely
parse it) — halel-u = praise 'ye — halelu Jah-= praise ye Jah, passes compre-
hension on any other ground than the O'Connor mania. Doubtless,
Dr Mackay has sat at the feet of O'Connor and has outrivalled his
teacher. As for amen, a glance at any Hebrew Lexicon might have taught
him that the Gaelic aw=timo or season, has not the remotest connexion
with it; the fundamental idea of omen, in common Avith a considerable number
of its derivative vocables in Hebrew and kindred languages being — trttlh.
Hence the agreement with which it is rendered in most Aryan tongues; e.g.,
.THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 157
our own Gaelic gu deimhin—gii firinneach, Manx dy firinnagli, "Welsh yn
loir, Italian in verita, Spanish en verdant, French en verity, German
vahrlich, English verily. Who can doubt the connection of these expres-
sions with each other, and no more do ice doubt that they are derived
not from the Latin verus but from a much older source — our own Gaelic
fior (fir) = true. And what is it but to err still more egregiously when
this same am= season is made to represent mo in parHamo, as the index
of time. Had the writer given beurlamaid as the equivalent of parliamo,
and of the French parlous, and made our mid or med (an old plural of
mi) the equivalent of mo, of Latin mus and Greek men and metha, he
would have been walking in the right direction. Our Gaelic beurla,
though now restricted to the sense of English formerly meant language in
general, for Edward Lhuyd, in his introduction to his Irish Grammar
says of that language " ged nach i mo bheurla mhatharail " — though it be
not my mother tongue. And now to dismiss the Semitic affinities, we are
very far from saying that such do not exist. We have a strong opinion that
though comparatively few, there are affinities which are unmistakable
between the great divisions of the Aryan and Semitic, and of which the
Celtic family contains the most striking on the Ayran side ; but we do
say, in all good feeling, that Dr M. is not the man to deal with what is
confessedly one of the most difficult problems within the range of linguistic
science.
As for such expressions as " Kick the bucket," " Davy Jones' locker,"
" Cut your stick," &c., we feel confident that persons of less fertile fancy
than our author's are not in the least disposed to question their maternity,
nor are they unable to comprehend the idea which they convey. Let
them, therefore, in all reason, be restored to the language of their birth.
We come now to a field on which, if anywhere, we are entitled to
look for judicious and discriminative treatment — that of Gaelic unlock-
ing the difficulties of English ; and yet on this his own chosen field our
author betrays strange incapacity. Let us give an example or two.
1. Amaze — amazement. We hold with Dr Mackay that these words
are of Celtic origin, but to offer as their Gaelic representatives masan and
masanacli is absurd. The root is the first syllable am.
Uamh=SLwe, fear, — hence uamlias (old form, uamad or uamas)= amaze-
ment ; another noun is uamhunn=feaY (old form, uamunn). Welsh ofn
ofnid ofnol, e.g., ofn y pobyll=uamhunn a phobuill, the fear of the people ;
also the Latin omen and English omen and ominous. Adjective uamhasach
=awful or amazing. Then from the same root you have uamh-fhear=
awe-man or giant, and a modern form famhar. May not thus the Greek
/o6os=fear, and fobeo = I fear, be from this root also ? At the least it may
be accepted that the Greek thauma (old form, thaumad or thaumat),
wonder, and thaumazo, I wonder, am amazed, are cognate, if not deriva-
tive.
2. It was indicated in the outset that, to the etymologist, acquaintance
with the oldest forms of any language with which he is dealing is of the
utmost importance. Had the old spelling of can) we = lent, been known to
our. author, it would have saved him from one at least of his mistakes.
In the French version of Calvin's works the spelling, if we remember
aright, is always caresme, and in this old spelling, as pretty often is the
case in other instances, you have the clue to the true derivation. Lent
158 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
in the Catholic Church, as most people know, has reference to our
Saviour's forty days' fast in the wilderness, and is styled quadragcsima,
or fortiethday, and thence Italian quaresima or digiuno di 40 giorni ;
Spanish, cuadragesima or cuarcsima. So the French caresme modern
careme is simply a modification of quarantiemo. Turning again to the Celtic
terms for lent, in none of them do we find a trace of the crtM/vuw= order
of battle etymology, e.g., Gaelic cairbJtcas, Irish carghas, Manx
cJiargijs, Welsh y graioys, Armoric coaras • and yet when cairlh-eas=
flesh -destitution, or want, offers itself as at least a plausible etymology,
we are reminded of two things; (1) the suspicious resemblance of most of
these words to qnadragesima, alias caresima ; and (2) that the Celts must
have received their lent with the introduction of the Catholic form of
Christianity.
3. Besides all this, the reader is too often treated to etymologies
which do not afford even a plausible resemblance to the words for which
they are offered for substitutes. Too often have the weapons of sarcasm
been flung, and flung to some purpose, against what is styled phonetic
etymology ; but here the reader every now and then encounters in sound
and in sense alike the most unaccountable violations of probability. Who
but our author could gravely offer for canopy, ceann-bhrat, or ceann-bheart
=head covering or head-dress ? How could the latter be transferred into
the former? whereas you have but to assume that cainpe^liemp, was
the material of which canopies, draperies, couches, &c., were originally
made, and you have an etymology which is thoroughly satisfactory in
every way.
Canape or eajw/?=hemp. Irish canaib and cnaib, Arm. canaib, Latin
cannabis, Greek cannabis, Sanscrit sana, Italian canapa and canape,
Spanish canamo, Fr. chanvre, Lithuarean kanape, Dutch Jcennip, Prussian
konopea, Islandic hanp, Anglo-Saxon haenep, Old German hanaf, English
hemp. The immense area over which this word is known would of itself go
far to indicate that of textile fabrics it may have been the earliest material.
The most obvious derivatives are the following : — In Gaelic, canat'pe
fhliucli = the wet sheet in which delinquents not many ages ago professed
penitence in Scotland ; Spanish, canape = a couch, canapo and canapalo =
cable, cordage ; Sp. canomas, Gaelic canaibcas, English canvas and, Query,
English cable.
4. Once more in the line of strictures, it must be obvious, on the
slightest reflection, that a word cannot have but one origin — the origin
cannot be this or that, and more especially when the this and that are
wide as the poles asunder. Where a definite conclusion cannot be reached,
better were it to leave the word alone, and that on the plain principle
that better far is no beacon than a false one and no guide than a blind one.
Every now and again you come upon an alternative etymology in this
book ; while a single glance can satisfy you that the alternatives have not
the remotest connection with each other. Take one instance, and only
one for this line of remark is quite as distasteful to the writer as it
can be to the author. On page 417, for soar=to mount in the air, you
have the etymology submitted in the optional style — first, s«or=free and
verb set free (though we should prefer so-ar= easily mounting, easily
rising aloft, as the more likely) ; but if either the one or other, how could
it be sdv, the radical idea of which is oppression- Compare the following
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
affinities : — Sdr is used adverbially to qualifiy nouns and adjectives and
verbs exactly as the Scotch and Germans use it — sair and sehr, and
English sore, e.g., sar-laock—n thorough hero, sar-mhaith— thoroughly
good, &c. Yerb saraich = to distress, oppress. Hence, sharaich (harich),
Greek liarasso, and English harass.
While in the interests of Gaelic scholarship we have felt bound to
show the defects of this book, it were more than ungracious to pass
silently over its merits. The author's intimate acquaintance with the nooks
and crannies of our national literature has enabled him to bring into
prominence several hitches in the etymologies of others, which cannot fail
to tend to further investigation. Besides all this, there are words of
doubtful meaning, and of no meaning, on which he has put his finger, and
if he has failed in some instances to light upon the true etymology others
who look at them from a wider point of view may be able to furnish
the true interpretation. Let it also be cheerfully conceded that a con-
siderable portion of Dr Mackay's etymologies are very solid and very sug-
gestive. These, if separated from those which are but vague and hap-
hazard guesses, and more fully fortified and illustrated by the results of
comparative philology, would form a contribution to the whole subject
of the relation of the Celtic and Teutonic dialects which should merit the
warm gratitude of scholars. When circumstances permit we hope to
return to the subject, and to dwell more on these instances in which our
author has hit the mark,
KILMOBACK. AND. D. MACKENZIE.
BEST IN THE FIGHT.
From the life- wearing battle for bread,
From the weary trammels of toil,
Where Autumn's enchantments iu glory are spread,
I hie with delight fwr awhile :
The slave may worship his wealth,
And ne'er from his idol shrine range ;
But richer is he who enriches his health,
By tasting the pleasures of change.
I'll away to the blue Highland hills,
'Mid Nature's sweet virginal dreams,
"Where the dark pines sigh to the song of the rills,
Or croon to the music of streams ;
Where flowers their beauty reveal,
Where winds soft melodies blow,
Where the careworn heart of the toiler can feel
The peace of a heaven below.
There the fire of the soul is renewed
By the l.'iuch of a magic hand ;
There the eye with a song gleam flash is imbued
'Neath the spells of the mountain land —
Away-unfettered and free,
Away from the pallor of toil,
The mountains and glens of the Highlands give me
To roam in, to roain in awhile.
WM. ALLAN.
160
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Slow, withfcdiii;/.
0 R A N GAOIL.
1
^t=£
4-U>—
Much 's mi 'g eiridh gu reidhlean feoir, Air maduinn cheitein mun d' eirich ceo,
Chunnacas eucag, inar shoillsean greine, Chuir saigheacl chreuchdach, gu geurn'am fheoil.
Key D.
r . m i s : 1 . s : m ., d I r : — : d1 . 1 I r1 : m1 . r1 : d' ., 1 | s : —
i
d1 . 1 | r' : m' . r : d' ., 1 | s : 1 : r , m | s : 1 . s : m ., d I r : -II
Is boi'che sheallas ri latha fliuch,
Do shlios mar chanach, air feadh nan torn,
No mar eala, 's i snamh nan tonn?
Do bheul, deargtana, o'n cubhraidh anail,
'S tu 's binne, banail, a sheinneas fonn.
'S beag an t-ioghnadh ged tha thu mor,
'S gach sruthan uaibhreach tha suas n» d' phor,
'S tu 'n fhior bhean uasal, do 'n nadur uallach,
'S tu 's grinne dh' fhuaitneas, 's as gile meoir.
Thug raise gaol dut, a gheug nam buadh,
'S tu 'n ainnir fhinealt, dha 'n geill an sluagh,
Corp fallain direach, mar chraobhan ginis,
Le meoir a cinntinn, fo bhlath a suas.
'S truagh nach ro mi mar an driuchd.
'S tus' ad' fhlur ann am bun na'n stuchd,
Chumain urachd ri bun gach flur dhiot.
'S cha leiginn lub orr ri teas no fuachd.
Cait an teid mi no co an taobh{
'H gu'm faigh mi t-eugais a chuir air chul
Ged theid mi dh' Eirinn, no fhad s is leur dhomh,
Cha'n fhaic mi te bhios co maiseach gnuis.
Se bhi air faondraidh an eilean fais,
An riochd na h-eala gun dim-am bais
Gun sgaoilinn sgiathan a ghaoil ri d' chliathaich
'S cha bhithinn flata ri chuir an sas.
NOTE. — Mrs Mary Mackellar, the well-known poetess, sending us the above song, wrote re-
garding it as follows :— " The abore song was composed by a Lochaber gentleman in praise of the
late Mrs Macdonald, Inch, Brae-Lochaber, a lady who was so surpassingly lovely that she was
considered the very queen of beauty in her day in the Highlands. This unfortunate gentleman,
who loved so well in v.'iin, taught the song to a servant lie had, who had a flne voice, and he used
to make her sins it whilst he lay near her with his face buried in the grass listening to his own
sad verses. Even years after he was married to another— and his beloved the wife of a more
successful suitor— he used to go to her to sing it to him whilst he the while lay suffering over
again the same old pain. I got the song when recently in Fort-William, from a young lady,
and to hear her play and sing it made it in very deed seem to me the pathetic wail of a sorrow-
ful heart." W. M'K.
THE
CELTIC MAGAZINE.
No. XLI. MAECH, 1879. VOL. IV.
HISTOEY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE,
WITH GENEALOGIES OF THE P11INC1PAL FAMILIES.
BY THE EDITOR.
[CONTINUED. |
XIX. KENNETH, afterwards created Earl of Seaforth, Viscount Fort-
rose, and Baron Ardelve, in the peerage of Ireland. From his small stature,
he was more commonly known among the Highlanders as the " Little
Lord." He was born in Edinburgh on the 15th of January 1744, and at
an early age entered the army. As a reward for his father's loyalty to
the House of Hanover during the troubles of 1745, and his own steady
support of the reigning family, he was, by George III., in 1766, raised
to the peerage by the title of Viscount Fortrose, and Baron Ardelve, in
the Kingdom of Ireland, and in 1771 he was created Earl of Seaforth in
the peerage of the same kingdom. To evince his gratitude for this mag-
nanimous act, in 1778 he offered to raise a regiment for general
service. The offer was accepted by his Majesty, and a fine body
of 1130 men were in a very short time raised by the Earl, principally
on his own estates in the north, and by gentlemen of his own
name. Of these five hundred were raised among his immediate
vassals, and about four hundred from the estates of the Mackenzies of
Scatwell, Kilcoy, Eedcastle, and Applecross. The officers from the
south to whom he granted commissions in the Eegiment brought about
two hundred men, of whom forty-three were English and Irish. The
Macraes of Kin tail, who had always proved such faithful followers and able
supporters of the House of Seaforth, were so numerous in the regiment
that it was known more by the name of the Macraes than by that of
Seaforth's own kinsmen, and so much was this the case that the well-
known mutiny which took place in Edinburgh, on the arrival of the
regiment there, is still called " the affair of the Macraes"* The regiment
* The Seaforth Highlanders were marched to Leith, where they were quartered for
a short interval, though long enough to produce complaints about the infringement of
their engagements, and some pay and bounty which they said were due them. Their
disaffection was greatly increased by the activity of emissaries from Edinburgh, like
those just mentioned as having gone down from London to Portsmouth. The regiment
refused to embark, and marching out of Leith, with pipes playing and two plaids fixed
on poles instead of colours, took a position on Arthur's seat, of which they kept posses-
N
162 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
•was embodied at Elgin in May 1778, aud was inspected by General
Skene, when it was found so effective that not a single man was rejected.
Seaforth, who was on the 29th of December 1777 appointed Colonel, was
now promoted to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel-Commandant, and the
regiment was called the 78th, or Eoss-shire Eegiment of Highlanders.
The grievances complained of at Leith having been removed, the regi-
ment embarked at that port, accompanied by their Colonel, the noble
Earl, and the intention of sending them to India then having been aban-
doned, one half of the regiment was sent to Guernsey and the other half
to Jersey. Towards the end of April 1781 the two divisions assembled
at Portsmouth, whence they embarked for India on the 1 2th of June fol-
lowing, being then 973 strong, rank and file. Though in excellent
health, the men suffered so much from scurvy, in consequence of the
change of food, that before their arrival at Madras, on the 2d of April 1782,
247 of them died, and out of those who landed alive only 369 were in a
fit state for service. Their Chief and Colonel died before they arrived at
St Helena, to the great grief and dismay of his faithful followers, who
looked up to him as their principal support. His loss was naturally asso-
ciated in their minds with the recollections of home, Avith melancholy re-
membrances of their absent kindred, and with forebodings of their own
future destiny, and so strong was this feeling impressed upon them that
it materially contributed to that prostration of mind which made them
the more readily become the victims of disease. They well knew that it
was on their account alone that he had determined to forego the comforts
of a splendid fortune and high rank to encounter the privations and in-
conveniences of a long voyage, and the dangers and other fatigues of
military service in a tropical climate.*
His Lordship, on the 7th of October 1765, married Lady Caroline
Stanhope, eldest daughter of William, second Earl of Harrington, and by
her — who died in London from a consumption under which she laboured
for nearly two years, on the 9th of February 1767, at the early age of
twenty, t and was buried at Kensington — he had issue, an only daughter,
Caroline, born in London on the 7th of July 1766. She married Count
Melfort, a nobleman of the Kingdom of France, but originally of Scottish
extraction, and died without issue in 1847.
Thus the line of George, second Earl of Seaforth, who died in 1633,
became extinct ; and it now becomes necessary to carry the reader back
to Kenneth Mor, third Earl of Seaforth, to pick up the chain of legitimate
succession. It has been already shown how the lineal descent of the old
line of Kintail has been directed from heirs male in the person of Ann,
Countess of Balcarres, daughter of Colin, first Earl of Seaforth.
sion for several days, during which time the inhabitants ef Edinburgh amply supplied
them with provisions and ammunition. After much negotiation, a proper understand-
ing respecting the causes of their complaint was brought about, and they marched down
the hill in the same manner in which they had gone up, with pipes playing ; and, "with
the Earls of Seaforth and Dunmore, and General Skene, at their head. They entered
Leitb, and went on board the transports with the greatest readiness and cheerfulness."
In this case, as in that of the Athole Highlanders, none ot the men were brought to
trial, or even put into confinement, for these acts of open resistance. — Stewart's Sketches
— Appendix p. Irjcsit:
* Stewart's Sketches, and Fullarton's History of the Highland Clans and Highland
Regiments.
t Scots Magazine for 1767, p, 538.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 163
Kenneth M6r had three sons, Kenneth Og, his heir and successor,
whose line terminated in Lady Caroline, Countess Melfort ; John of
Assynt, whose only son, Kenneth, died without issue ; Hugh, who died
young; and Colonel Alexander, afterwards designated of Assynt and
Conansbeg, and who married Elizabeth, daughter of John Paterson,
Bishop of Eoss, and sister of John Paterson, Archbishop of Glasgow.
He had an only son and six daughters. The daughters were Isa-
bella, who married Basil Hamilton of Baldoon, became mother of
Dunbar, fourth Earl of Selkirk, and died in 1725 ; Frances,
who married her cousin, Kenneth Mackenzie of Assynt, without
issue ; Jane, married Dr Mackenzie, a cadet of the family of Coul, and
died at New Tarbet, 18th September 1776 [Scots Magazine, vol. 38,
p. 510] ; Mary, married Captain Dougal Stewart of Blairhall, M.P., a
Lord of Session and Justiciary, and brother of the first Earl of Bute, with
issue ; Elizabeth, died unmarried at Kirkcudbright, on the 1 2th of March
1796, aged 81 [Gentleman's Magazine, vol. 66, p. 357] ; and Maria, who
married Nicholas Price of Saintfield, County Down, Ireland, and had issue.
She was maid of honour to Queen Caroline, and died in 1732 [Burke's
Landed Gentry]. The son was Major "William Mackenzie, who married Mary,
the daughter and co-heiress of Mathew Humberstone, Lincoln, by whom he
had issue, two sons, first, Thomas Frederick Mackenzie, who assumed the
name of Humberston on succeeding to his mother's property, and who was
Colonel of the 100th .Regiment of foot; and second, Francis Humberston
Mackenzie. Major William had also four daughters ; Frances Cerjat, who
married Sir Vicary Gibbs,M.P.,his Majesty's Attorney-General, with issue ;
Maria Rebecca, married Alexander Mackenzie of Breda, younger son of John
Mackenzie of Applecross, with issue ; and Helen, who married Major-
General Alexander Mackenzie Eraser of Inverallachie, fourth son of Colin
Mackenzie of Kilcoy, Colonel of the 78th Regiment, and M.P. for the
County of Ross, with issue. William died on the 12th of March 1770, at
Stafford, Lincolnshire [Scots Magazine, vol. 32, p. 167]. His wife died
on the 19th of February 1813, at Hartley, Herts [Scots Magazine, vol.
75, p. 240]. Colonel Thomas F. Mackenzie Humberston, it will be seen,
thus became male heir to his consin, Earl Kenneth, who died, without male
issue, in 1781, and who, finding his property heavily encumbered with
debts from which he could not extricate himself, conveyed the estates
to his cousin and heir male, Colonel Thomas, in the year 1779, on pay-
ment to him of £100,000. He died, as already stated, in 1781, and was
succeeded by his cousin,
XX. COLONEL THOMAS FREDERICK MACKENZIE HUMBERSTON, in all
his extensive estates, and in the command of the 78th Ross-shire High-
land Regiment, but not in the titles and dignities, which ended
with his predecessor. When, in 1778, the 78th was raised, Thomas T. F.
Mackenzie Humberston was a captain in the 1st Regiment of Dragoon
Guards, but notwithstanding this he accepted a captaincy in Seaforth's regi-
ment of Ross-shire Highlanders. He was afterwards quartered with the
latter regiment in Jersey,and took a prominent share in repelling the attack
made on that island by the French. Soon after, in 1781, he embarked
with the regiment to the East Indies, with the rank of Lieutenant-
Colonel, and was at Port Preya when the outward bound East Indian
164 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
fleet under Commodore Johnston was attacked by the French. He hap-
pened at the time to be ashore, but such was his ardour to share in the
action that he swam to one of the ships engaged with the enemy.
As soon as he arrived in India he obtained a separate command
on the Malabar Coast, but in its exercise he met with every dis-
couragement from the Council of Bombay. This gave him a greater op-
portunity of distinguishing himself, for under all the disadvantages of
having money, stores, and reinforcements withheld from him, he under-
took, with 1000 Exiropeans and 2500 Sepoys to wage an offensive war
against Calicut. He was conscious of great resources in his own mind,
and harmony, confidence, and attachment on the part of his officers and
men. He drove the enemy out of the country, defeated them in three
different engagements, took the city of Calicut, and every other place of
strength in the kingdom. He concluded a treaty with the King of Tra-
vancore, who was reinforced with a force of 1200 men. Tipoo now pro-
ceeding against him with 30,000 men, more than one-third of whom were
cavalry, Colonel Mackenzie Humberston repelled their attack, and by
a rapid march regained the Fort of Panami, which the enemy attempted to
carry, but he defeated them with great loss. He served under General
Mathews against Hyder Ali in 1782- but during the operations of that
campaign, Mathews gave such proofs of misconduct, incapacity, and in-
justice, that Colonels Macleod and Humberston carried their complaints
to the Council of Bombay, where they arrived on the 26th of February
1783. The Council ordered General Mathews to be superseded, appointed
Colonel Macleod to succeed him in command of the army, and desired
Colonel Humberston to join him. They both sailed from Bombay on
the 5th of April 1783, in the Ranger sloop of war ; but, notwithstanding
that peace had been concliided with the Mahrattas, that vessel was attacked
on the 8th of that month by the Mahratta fleet, and after a desperate
resistance of four hours, was taken possession of. All the officers on
board were either killed or wounded, among them the young and gallant
Colonel Mackenzie Humberston, who was shot through the body with a
four pound ball, and died of the wound at Geriah on the 30th of April
1783, in the 28th year of his age. He had thus only been Chief of the
Clan for the short space of two years, and, dying unmarried, he was
succeeded by his only brother,*
XXI. FRANCIS HUMBERSTON MACKENZIE, afterwards raised to the
peerage by*the title of his ancestors, Earl of Seaforth. This nobleman,
in many respects a very able and remarkable man, was born in
1754, in full possession of all his faculties; but a severe attack of
scarlet fever from which he suffered when about twelve years of age,
deprived him of hearing and almost of speech. As he advanced in
life he again almost entirely recovered the faculty of speech, but during
the latter two years of his life, grieving over the loss of his four promising
sons, all of whom predeceased him, he became quite unable, or rather
never made any attempt to articulate. He was in his youth intended
by his parents to follow the naval profession, but his physical misfor-
tunes made such a career impossible.
Little or nothing is known of the history of his early life. In 1784,
and again in 1790, he was elected M.P. for the County of Eoss. In 1787,
* Douglas' Peerage.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 165
in the thirty-third year of his age, he offered to raise a regiment on his own
estates for the King's service, to be commanded by himself. In the same
year the 74th, 75th, 76th, and 77th Regiments were raised, and the Go-
vernment declined Mr Mackenzie's offer; but agreed to accept his services in
the matter of procuring recruits for the 74th and 75th. This did not please
him, and he did not then come prominently to the front. On the 19th
of May 1790, he renewed his oiler, but the Government informed him
that the strength of the army had been finally fixed at seventy-seven
regiments, and his services were again declined. He was still anxious to
be of service to his sovereign, and when the war broke out, in 1793, he
again renewed his offer, and placed his great influence at the service of
the Crown ; and we find a letter of service granted in his favour dated
the 7th of March 1793, empowering him, as Lieutenant-Colonel-Com-
mandant, to raise a Highland battalion, which, being the first embodied
during the war, was to be numbered the 78th, the original Mackenzie
regiment having had its number previously reduced to the 72d. The bat-
talion was to consist of 1 company of Grenadiers, 1 of light infantry, and
8 battalion companies. The Chief at once appointed as his Major his
own brother-in-law, Alexander Mackenzie of Belmaduthy, a son of Kilcoy,
then a captain in the 73d Eegiment, and a man who proved himself on all
future occasions well fitted for the post. The following notice, headed
by the Eoyal arms, was immediately posted throughout the Counties of
Boss and Cromarty, on the mainland, and in the Island of Lews : —
" Seaforth's Highlanders to be forthwith raised for the defence of his
Glorious Majesty, King George the Third, and the preservation of our
happy constitution in Church and State.
" All lads of true Highland blood willing to show their loyalty and
spirit, may repair to Seaforth, or the Major, Alexander Mackenzie of Bel-
maduthy ; or the other commanding officers at headquarters, at ....
where they will receive high bounties and soldier-like entertainment.
" The lads of this regiment will live and die together, as they cannot
be draughted into other regiments, and must be reduced in a body, in
their own country.
" Now for a stroke at the Monsieurs, my boys ! King George for
ever ! Huzza ! "
The machinery once set agoing, applications poured in upon Seaforth
for commissions in the corps from among his own more immediate rela-
tives, and from others who were but slightly acquainted with him.*
The martial spirit of the people soon became thoroughly roused, and
recruits came in so rapidly that on the 10th of July 1793, only four
months after the granting of the Letter of Service in favour of Seaforth,
* Besides Seaforth himself, and his Major mentioned in the text, the following,
of the name of Mackenzie, appear among the first list of officers : —
Major. — Alexander Mackenzie of Fairburn, General in 1809.
Captains. — John Mackenzie of Gairloch, " Fighting Jack," Major 1794, Lieutenant-
Colonel the same year, and Lieutenant-General in 1814. Died the father of
the British Army in 1860 ; J. Randoll Mackenzie of Suddie, Major-General
in 1804, killed at Talavera 1809.
Lieutenant, — Colin Mackenzie, Lieutenant-Colonel 91st Regiment.
Ensigns. — Charles Mackenzie, Kilcoy j and J, Mackenzie Scott, Captain 57th Regi-
ment. Killed at Albuera.
16G THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
the regiment was marched to Fort-George, inspected and passed by Lieut. -
General Sir Hector Munro, after which five companies were immediately
embarked for Guernsey, and the other five companies landed in Jersey in
September 1793, after which they were sent to Holland.
On the 13th of October in the same year, Seaforth offered to raise a
second battalion for the 78th, and on the 30th of the same month the
King granted him permission to raise five hundred additional men on
the original letters of service. This was not, however, what he
wanted, and on the 28th of December following he submitted three
alternative proposals, for raising a second battalion, to the Government.
On the 7th of February 1794, one of these was agreed to. The battalion
was to consist of eight battalion and two flank companies, each to consist
of 100 men, with the usual number of officers and non-commissioned
officers. Seaforth was, however, disappointed by the Government ; for
while he intended to have raised a second battalion to his own regiment,
an order was issued, signed by Lord Amherst, that it was to be considered
as a separate corps, whereupon the Lieutenant-Colonel-Commandant ad-
dressed the following protest to Mr Dundas, one of the Secretaries of
State:— " St Alban Street, 8th February 1794.— Sir,— I had sincerely
hoped I should not be obliged to trouble you again ; but on my going to-
day to the War Office about my letter of service (having yesterday, as I
thought, finally agreed with Lord Amherst), I was, to my amazement,
told that Lord Amherst had ordered that the 1000 men I am to raise
were not to be a second battalion of the 78th, but a separate corps. It
will, I am sure, occur to you that should I undertake such a thing, it
would destroy my influence among the people of my country entirely ;
and instead of appearing as a loyal honest chieftain calling out his friends
to support their King and country, I should be gibbeted as a jobber of
the attachment my neighbours bear to me. Recollecting what passed be-
tween you and me, I barely state this circumstance ; and I am, with
great respect and attachment, sir, your most obliged and obedient servant.
(Signed), F. H. MACKENZIE." This had the desired effect, the order for
a separate corps was rescinded, and a letter of service was granted to
Seaforth on the 10th of February 1794, authorising him, as Lieutenant-
Colonel-Commandant, to add the new battalion, of which the strength
was to be one company of Grenadiers, one of light infantry, and eight
battalion companies to his own regiment. The regiment was soon raised;
and inspected and passed at Fort-George in June of the same year by Sir
Hector Munro, and in July following the King granted permission to
have it named, as a distinctive title, " The Koss-shire Buffs." The two
battalions were amalgamated in June 1796. Another battalion was raised
in 1804 — Letter of Service, date 17th April. These were again amalga-
mated in July 1817.* Though the regiment was not accompanied abroad
by its Lieutenant-Colonel-Commandant, he was always most solicitous for
its reputation and welfare, as we find from the various communications
addressed to him regarding the regiment and the conduct of the men by
Lieutenant-Colonel Alexander Mackenzie of Fairburn, who was appointed
* For these particulars we are mainly indebted to Fullarton's Highland Clans and
Regiments, and to Stewart's Sketches.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Lieutenant-Colonel from the first battalion,* and now in actual command,
but as the history of the 78th Highlanders is not our present object, we
must meanwhile part company with it and follow the future career of
Francis Humberston Mackenzie. As a reward for his eminent services to
the Government he was appointed Lord-Lieutenant of the County of Ross,
and, 26th October 1797, raised to the dignity of a peer of the United
Kingdom as Lord Seaforth and Baron Mackenzie of Kintail, the ancient
dignities of his house, with limitation to heirs male of his body. His
Lordship, having resigned the command of the 78th, was, in 1798, ap-
pointed Colonel of the Ross-shire Regiment of Militia. In 1800 he was
appointed Governor of Barbadoes, an office which he held for six years,
after which he held high office in Demerara and Berbice. While Governor
of Barbadoes he was at first extremely popular, and was distinguished for
his firmness and even-handed justice, and he succeeded in putting an end
to slavery, and to the practice of slave-killing in the island, which at that
time was a pretty common occurrence, and deemed by the planters a
venial offence punishable only by a small fine of £15. In consequence
of this humane proceeding he became obnoxious to many of the colonists,
and he finally left the place in 1806. In 1808 he was made a Lieutenant-
General. These were singular incidents in the life of one who may be
said to have been deaf and dumb from his youth ; but who, in spite of
these physical defects sufficient to crush any ordinary man, had, by the
force of his natural abilities and the favour of fortune, been able to over-
come them sufficiently to raise himself to such a high and important posi-
tion in the world. He also took a lively interest in all questions of art
and science, especially in natural history, and displayed at once his
liberality and his love of art by his munificence to Sir Thomas Lawrence,
in the youth and struggles of that great artist and famous painter, and
by his patronage of others. On this point a recent writer says
— " The last Baron of Kintail, Francis, Lord Seaforth, was, as Sir Walter
has said, ' a nobleman of extraordinary talents, who must have made for
himself a lasting reputation, had not his political exertions been checked
by painful natural infirmities.' Though deaf from his sixteenth year and
though labouring under a partial impediment of speech, he held high and
important appointments, and was distinguished for his intellectual acti-
vities and attainments His case seems to contradict the
opinion held by Kitto and others, that in all that relates to the culture of
the mind, and the cheerful exercise of the mental faculties, the blind have
the advantage of the deaf. The loss of the ear, that ' vestibule of the
soul,' was to him compensated by gifts and endowments rarely united in
the same individual. Ono instance of the Chief's liberality and love of
art may be mentioned. In 1796 he advanced a sum of £1000 to Sir
Thomas Lawremce to relieve him from pecuniary difficulties. Lawrence
was then a young man of twenty-seven. His career from a boy upwards
was one of brilliant success, but he was careless and generous as to money
matters, and some speculations by his father embarrassed and distressed
the young artist. In his trouble he applied to the Chief of Kintail.
' Will you,' he said in that theatrical style common to Lawrence, ' will
* J. Randoll Mackenzie, also from the first battalion, was appointed senior major.
168 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
you be the Antonio to a Bassanio V He promised to pay the £1000 in
four years, but the money Avas given on terms the most agreeable to the
feelings, and complimentary to the talents of the artist. He was to repay
it with his pencil, and the Chief sat to him for his portrait. Lord Sea-
forth also commissioned from West one of those immense sheets of canvas
on which the old Academician delighted to work in his latter years. The
subject of the picture was the traditionary story of the Royal hunt, in
which Alexander the Third was saved from the assault of a fierce stag
by Colin Fitzgerald, a wandering knight unknown to authentic history.
West considered it one of his best productions, charged £800 for it, and
was willing some years afterwards, with a view to the exhibition of his
works, to purchase back the picture at its original cost. In one instance
Lord Seaforth did not evince artistic taste. He dismantled Brahan
Castle, removing its castellated features, and completely modernising its
general appearance. The house, with its large modern additions, is a
tall, massive pile of building, the older portion covered to the roof with
ivy. It occupies a commanding site on a bank midway between the river
Conon and a range of picturesque rocks. This bank extends for miles,
sloping in successive terraces, all richly wooded or cultivated, and com-
manding a magnificent view that terminates with the Moray Firth.*
The remarkable prediction of the extinction of this highly distinguished
and ancient family is already well known to the reader, and its literal
fulfilment is one of the most curious instances of the kind on record.
There is no doubt that the "prophecy" was well known throughout
the Highlands generations before it was fulfilled. Lockhart, in his " Life
of Sir Walter Scott," says that " it connected the fall of the house of Sea-
forth not only with the appearance of a deaf ' Cabarfeidh,' but with the
contemporaneous appearance of various different physical misfortunes in
several of the other Highland Chiefs, all of which are said to have actually
occurred within the memory of the generation that has not yet passed
away. Mr Morrit can testify thus, for that he heard the prophecy quoted
in the Highlands at a time when Lord Seaforth had two sons alive, and
in good health, and that it certainly was not made after the event," and
then he proceeds to say that Scott and Sir Humphrey Davy were
most certainly convinced of its truth, as also many others who had
watched the latter days of Seaforth in the light of those wonderful prc-
dictions.t
* Review of "The Seaforth Papers" in the North British Review, 1863, by the
late Robert Carruthers, LL.D.
t "Every Highland family has its store of traditionary and romantic beliefs. Cen-
turies ago a seer of the Clan Mackenzie, known as Kenneth Oag (Odhar), predicted that
when there should be a deaf Caberfae the gift-land of the estate would be sold, and the
male line become extinct. The prophecy was well known in the Noith, and it was not,
like many similar vaticinations, made after the event. At least three unimpeachable
Sassenach writers, Sir Humphrey Davy, Sir Walter Scott, and Mr Morritt of Rokeby,
had all heard the prediction when Lord Seaforth had two sons alive, both in good health.
The tenantry were, ot course, strongly impressed with the truth of the prophecy, and
when their Chief proposed to sell part of Kintail, they offered to buy in the land for
him, that it might not pass from the family, One son was then living, and there was
no immediate prospect of the succession expiring ; but, in deference to the clannish
prejudice or affection, the sale of any portion of the estate was deferred for about two
years. The blow came at last. Lord Seaforth was involved in West India plantations,
which were mismanaged, and he was forced to dispose of part of the " gift land." About
the same time the last of his four sons, a young man of talent and eloquence, and then
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 169
His Lordship outlived all his four sons as predicted by the Brahan
Seer. His name became extinct, and his vast possessions were inherited by a
stranger, Mr Stewart, who married the eldest daughter, Lady Hood. She
afterwards, by accident, killed her own sister ; and the sign by which it was
to be known that these events were about to happen was also foretold in a
remarkable manner, namely, that there would be in the days of
the last Seaforth four great contemporary lairds, distinguished by
physical defects predicted by the Seer. Sir Hector Mackenzie, Bart, of
Gairloch, was buck-toothed, and is to this day spoken of among the Gair-
loch tenantry as " An-tighearna Storach," or the buck-toothed laird.
Chisholm of Chisholm was hair-lipped. Grant of Grant half-witted, and
Macleod of Raasay a stammerer.*
In addition to the testimony of those whose names we have already
stated, we shall give that of a living witness. Duncan Davidson of Tul-
loch, in a letter addressed to the writer, dated May 21, 1878, says —
" Many of these prophecies I heard of upwards of 70 years ago, and when
many of them were not fulfilled, such as the late Lord Seaforth sur-
viving his sons, and Mrs Stewart Mackenzie's accident, near Brahan, by
which Miss Caroline Mackenzie was killed."
One cannot help sympathising with the magnificent old Chief as he
mourned over the premature death of his four fine sons, and saw the
honours of his house for ever extinguished in his own person. Many
stories are related of his munificent extravagance at home, sailing round
the West Coast while on his visits to the great principality of the Lews,
and calling on his way hither and thither on the other great chieftains of
the West and Western Islands. Of him Sir Walter Scott says in his
" Lament for ' the last of the Seaforths'"—
In vain the bright course of thy talents to wrong,
Fate deadened thine ear and imprisoned thy tongue,
For brighter o'er all her obstructions arose
The glow of thy genius they could not oppose ;
And who, in the land of the Saxon or Gael
Could match with Mackenzie, High Chief of Kiutail ?
Thy sons rose around thee in light and in love,
All a father could hope, all a friend could approve ;
What 'vails it the tale of thy sorrows to tell ?
In the spring time of youth and of promise they fell !
Of the line of MacKenneth remains not a male,
To bear the proud name of the Chief of Kintail.
We shall here close our sketch of him in the language of one whom we
have had occasion already to quote with considerable approbation : — "It was
said of him by an acute observer and a leading wit of the age, the late
Honourable Henry Erskine, the Scotch Dean of Faculty, that ' Lord Sea-
forth's deafness was a merciful interposition to lower him to the ordinary
rate of capacity in society,' insinuating that otherwise his perception and
representing his native County in Parliament, died suddenly, and thus the prophecy of
Kenneth Oag was fulfilled. —
Of the line of Fitzgerald remained not a male
To bear the proud name of the Chief of Kintail."
— The late Robert Carruthers, LL.D., in the North British Ecview.
* For full details of this remarkable instance of family fate, see "The Prophecies
of the Brahau Seer."
170 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
intelligence would have been oppressive. And the aptness of the remark
was duly appreciated by all those who had the good fortune to be able to
form an estimate from personal observation, while, as a man of the world,
none was more capable of generalizing. Yet, as a countryman, he never
affected to disregard those local predilections which identified him with
the County of Ross, as the genuine representative of Kintail, possessing
an influence which, being freely ceded and supported, became paramount
and permanent in the County which he represented in the Commons
House of Parliament, till he was called to the peerage on the 26th October
1797, by the title of Lord Seaforth and Baron of Kintail, with limitation
to heirs male of his body, and which he presided over as his Majesty's
Lord-Lieutenant. He was commissioned, in 1793, to reorganise the 78th
or Ross-shire Regiment of Highlanders, which, for so many years, continued
to be almost exclusively composed of his countrymen. Nor did his ex-
traordinary qualifications and varied exertions escape the wide ranging eye
of the master genius of the age, who has also contributed, by a tributary
effusion, to transmit the unqualified veneration of our age to many that
are to follow. He has been duly recognised by Sir Walter Scott, nor
was he passed over in the earlier buddings of Mr Colin Mackenzie ; but
while the annalist is indebted to their just encomiums, he may be allowed
to respond to praise worthy of enthusiasm by a splendid fact which at
once exhibits a specimen of reckless imprudence joined to those qualities
which, by their popularity, attest their genuineness. Lord Seaforth for a
time became emulous of the society of the most accomplished Prince of
his age. The recreation of the Court was play ; the springs of this in-
dulgence then were not of the most delicate texture ; his faculties, pene-
trating as they were, had not the facility of detection which qualified him
for cautious circumspection ; he heedlessly ventured and lost. It was
then to cover his delinquencies elsewhere, he exposed to sale the estate of
Lochalsh ; and it was then he was bitterly taught to feel, when his people,
without an exception, addressed his Lordship this pithy remonstrance —
'Reside amongst us and we shall pay your debts.' A variety of feelings
and facts, unconnected with a difference, might have interposed to counter-
act this display of devotedness besides ingratitude, but these habits, or
his Lordship's reluctance, rendered this expedient so hopeless that certain
of the descendants of the original proprietors of that valuable locality
were combining their respective finances to buy it in, when a sudden
announcement that it was sold under value, smothered their amiable en-
deavours. Kintail followed, with the fairest portion of Glenshiel, and
the Barony of Callan Fitzgerald ceased to exist to the mortification,
though not to the unpopularity of this still patriarchal nobleman among
his faithful tenantry and the old friends of his family."*
His Lordship married, on the 22d of April 1782, Mary Proby,
daughter of Baptist Proby, D.D., Dean of Lichfield, and brother of John,
first Lord Carysfort, by whom he had issue, a fine family of four sons and
six daughters, first, William Frederick, who died young, at Killearnan ;
second, George Leveson Boucherat, who died young at Urquhart ; third,
William Frederick, who represented the County of Ross in Parliament,
1812, and died at Warriston, near Edinburgh, in 1814 ; and fourth,
Francis John, a midshipman in the Royal Navy, died at Brahan, in 1813.
* Bennetsfield MS.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 171
They all died unmarried. The daughters were, Mary Frederica Elizabeth,
who succeeded him ; second, Frances Catherine, died without issue ;
third, Caroline, accidentally killed at Brahan, unmarried ; fourth,
Charlotte Elizabeth, died unmarried ; fifth, Augusta Anne, died un-
married ; and sixth, Helen Ann, married the Eight Honourable Joshua
Henry Mackenzie of the Inverlael family, and anciently descended from
the Barons of Kintail, a Lord of Session and Justiciary, by the title of
Lord Mackenzie, with issue.
Lord Seaforth, Raving survived all his male issue, died on the llth
of January 1815, at Warriston, near Edinburgh, the last male represen-
tative of his race. His Lady outlived him, and died at Edinburgh on
the 27th February 1829. The estates, in virtue of an entail executed by
Lord Seaforth, with all their honours, duties, and embarrassments, de-
volved upon his eldest daughter, then a young widowed lady,
XXII. MARY ELIZABETH FREDERICA MACKENZIE, LADY HOOD, whom
Scott commemorated in the well-known lines. —
And tkou, gentle dame, who must bear to thy grief,
For thy clan and thy country the cares of a Ckief,
Whom brief rolling moons, in six changes have left
Of thy husband, and father, and brethren bereft ;
To thine ear of affection how sad is the hail
That salutes thee the heir of the line of Kiiitail.
She was born at Tarradale, Ross-shire, on the 27th of March 1783, and
married at Barbadoes on the 6th of November 1804, Sir Samuel Hood,
afterwards KB., Vice-Admiral of the White, and, in 1806, M.P, for West-
minster. Sir Samuel died at Madras on the 24th December 1814, without
issue. Lady Hood then returned to Great Britain, and, in 1815, took pos-
session of the family estates, which had devolved upon her by the death of
her father without male issue, when, as we have seen, the titles became
extinct. She married, secondly, on the 21st of May 1817, The Right
Honourable James Alexander Stewart of Glasserton, a cadet of the
house of Galloway, who assumed the name of Mackenzie, was
returned M.P. for the County of Ross, held office under Earl Grey,
and was successively Governor of Ceylon, and Lord High Com-
missioner to the Ionian Islands. He died on the 24th of September
1843. Mrs Stewart-Mackenzie died at Brahan Castle, on the 28th of
November 1862, and was buried in the family vault in the Chanonry or
Cathedral of Fortrose. Her funeral was one of the largest ever witnessed
in the Highlands of Scotland, several thousands of persons being present
on foot, while the vehicles numbered over 150. By the second marri-
age she left issue — Keith William Stewart-Mackenzie, now of Seaforth ;
Francis P. Proby, died without issue; George A. F. W., married a
daughter of General T. Marriott, and died in 1852 without issue; Mary
F., married The Honourable Philip Anstruther, with issue ; Caroline S.,
married J. B. Petre, and died in 1867; and Louisa C., who married William,
second Lord Ashburton, with issue — one daughter. Mrs Stewart-Mac-
kenzie and her husband were succeeded by their eldest son,
XXIII. KEITH WILLIAM STEWART-MACKENZIE, now of Seaforth, late
Captain in the 90th Regiment of foot, and Colonel Commandant of the
Ross-shire Rifie Volunteers. He married first, Hannah, daughter of James
Joseph Hope-Vere of Craigiehall, with issue — James Alexander Francis
172 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Humberston Mackenzie, younger of Seaforth, a Captain, 9th Lancers;
Susan Mary, married the late Colonel John Constantino Stanley, second
son of Edward, Lord Stanley of Alderley, with issue, two daughters ;
Julia Charlotte S., married the late Arthur, 9th Marquis of Tweeddale ;
and Georgina H., who died young.
He married secondly, Alicia Almeira Bell, with issue, one daughter.
Having brought the history and genealogy of the ancient house of Kintail
and Seaforth down to the present time, we shall next consider the
question of the present CHIEFSHIP of the Clan, and give the genealogy
of Allangrange to date. We shall afterwards, as specimens, give that of
the House of Hilton — the representative of which is senior cadet of the
Clan ; and a history and genealogy of the next in seniority, — the family of
Gairloch, and its branches of Letterewe, Mountgerald, Belmaduthy, Port-
more, Lochend, Muirtou, Davochcairn, and Flowerbum.
THE HIGHLAND BKIDE.
To-iiight my boat shall leave the shore,
To night I'll bear my love away,
A chieftain's daughter I adore,
And feeble he who love would stay.
Tho' faint the moon, though dark the sky,
Tho' sullen sounds the rushing tide,
Yet bravely on my boat shall fly
To bear away my Highland bride.
We pledged our troth by Heav'ii above,
Then who shall scorn our mutual vow ?
A father's anger ripens love,
Yea, prompts my deed of daring now.
Not Duart's massive walls can keep
The prisoned maiden from my side ;
I'll o'er the wave-encircled deep,
And bear away my Highland bride.
Away ! away ! the boat fast sped,
Sunk far behind dark Morven's shore,
Love's eyes repelled the darkness dread,
Love's might impelled the yielding oar.
Lone Duart loomed ! far rose a flare
A maiden's eyes the signal spied,
A lover's heart and arms were there,
To bear away his Highland bride.
'Twas love's bright flash ! 'twas freedom's hope
Joy lit despair's sad solitude ;
Thro' tender hands swift flew the rope,
On sea- washed rocks a maiden stood.
My own ! rejoice ! I'm here ! I'm here !
No more we'll parted be, he cried.
To Morven, love, my boat I'll steer,
And bear away my Highland bride.
One kiss of love dispelled dismay,
His boat a willing maiden bore ;
Wild rushed the blast, high leapt the spray,
And dashed the waves with joyous roar.
Away, ye tempests, rudely blown I
Her sacred charm our course will guide ;
Blow on your glee ! she is my own !
I've dared ! and won my Highland bride.
HUNDEBLAND* WM. ALLAN,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 173
THE GAELIC NAMES OF TREES, SHRUBS, PLANTS, &c.
By CHARLES FERGUSSON.
-o
| CONCLUDED. |
OAK.— -Latin, Quercus robar ; Gaelic, Darach, This monarch of the
forest is certainly a native of the Highlands, though some writers, of the
class who grudge to see anything good either in the Highlands or in the
Highlanders, try to maintain that it was not anciently found north of
Perthshire. This, however, is clearly settled by the great quantity of
huge oak trees found embedded at great depths below the surface in peat
mosses all over the Highlands and Islands. All our earliest bards and
writers mention the oak, and Ossian, who is believed to have flour-
ished in the third century, sings of hoary oak trees dying of old age in his
day:—
" Samhach 'us mor a bha 'n triath
Mar dharaig 's i liath air Lubar,
A chaill a dlu-gheug o shean
Le dealan glan nan speur ;
Tha 'h-aomadh thar sruth o shliabh,
A coinneach mar chiabh a fuaim."
" Silent and great was the prince,
Like an oak tree hoary, on Lubar,
Stripped of its thick and aged boughs
By the keen lightning of the skies ;
• It bends across the stream from the hill ;
Its moss sounds in the wind like hair."
There are many huge oak trees in diiferent parts of the Highlands, which
are certainly several hundred years old, such as at Castle Menzies, where
there are oaks about 20 feet in circumference. Those trees must be very
old, as it is proved that the oak on an average grows only to about from
14 to 20 inches in diameter in 80 years. The wood of the oak, being
hard, strong, and durable, was used by the Highlanders for almost every
purpose possible — from building their biiiinns and roofing their castles,
down to making a cudgel for the herdsman or shepherd, who believed the
old superstition that his flock would not thrive unless his .staff was of oak.
And after the Highlanders had laid aside their claymores, many an old
clan feud was kept up, and many a quarrel between the men of different
glens or clans was settled, by the end of a " cuileir math daraich." The
bark was of course much used for tanning leather, and also for dyeing a
brown colour, or, by adding copperas, a black colour. The veneration
which the Druids had for the oak is too well known to need mentioning
here ; and it seems also to have been the custom in early times to bury
the great heroes under aged oak trees, for the bard Ullin, who was some-
what prior to Ossian, says in " Dan an Deirg," singing of Cornhal,
Ossian's grandfather : —
174 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
" Tha leaba fo chos nan clacli
Am fasgadh an daraig aosda."
" His bed is below the stones
Under the shade of the aged oak."
The Highlanders used a decoction of oak bark for stopping vomiting, and
they also believed that a decoction of the bark and acorns was the best
possible antidote for all kinds of poison or the bite of serpents. They also
believed that it was -the only tree for which a wedge of itself was the best
to split it, which gave rise to the old Gaelic proverb — " Geinu dheth fein
a sgoilteas an darach " (" A wedge made of the self-same oak cleaves it.")
The Gaelic bard, Donnachadh Ban, refers to this belief in one of his
beautiful songs —
" 'S chuala mi mar shean-fhacal
Mu'n darach, gur fiodh corr e,
'S gur geinn' dheth f hein 'ga theannachadh
A spealtadh e 'na ordaibh."
PINE (WEYMOUTH). — Latin, Pi IMS Strobus ; Gaelic, Giutlias Sasunach.
This beautiful tree Avas first introduced from England to Dunkeld, where
the first trees of it were planted in 1725.
PLANE. — Latin, Acer Pscudo-plantanus ; Gaelic, Pleintri. or Pluniirhm.
The first of these Gaelic names, which sounds so very like the English, is
given by Alex. Macdonald (Mac Mhaighstir Alastair) in his Gaelic
list of trees already referred to. The second is given by Lightfoot,
as the Gaelic name in use for this tree Avhen he travelled in the High-
lands in 1772. The plane is a native of the Highlands, where it grows
to an immense size, as may be seen by the following extract from the New
Statistical Account of the dimensions of plane trees growing at Castle
Menzies, parish of Weem — " solid contents of a plane, 1132^ feet; ex-
treme height, 77£ : girth at ground, 23; at four feet, 16. Of a second
plane, giith at four feet from ground, 18| feet ; and of a third at four
feet, 20J feet." The wood of this tree, which is white and soft, was
much used by the Highlanders for turning ; and Lightfoot mentions that
they made a very agreeable wino of the sap of the plane, as they did of
the birch and maple.
EASPBERRY, — Latin, Rubus Idcaus ; Gaelic, Sulhag, or Saidheag. The
wild raspberry is one of our native wild fruits, and grows very commonly
all over the Highlands, where it also grows very well in a cultivated state
in gardens. The distilled juice of this fruit was once very much used by
the old Highlander in cases of fever, as it is veiy cooling. Lightfoot says
that the juice of this fruit was used in the Isle of Skye, when he was
there, as an agreeable acid for making punch instead of lemons.
KOWAN, or MOUNTAIN ASH. — Latin, Pyrus Aucuparia; Gaelic, Cao-
runn. This beautiful and hardy tree is a native of the Highlands, where
the wood of it was once much used by wheelwrights and coopers;
but the great use the Highlanders made of the rowan tree, since the days
of the Druids, was for their superstitious charms against witchcraft. I
may give Lightfoot's account of what the Highlanders did with the rowan
in 1772 — " The rowan-berries have an astringent quality, but in no hurt-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 175
ful degree. In the island of Jura they use the juice of them as an acid
for punch ; and the Highlanders often eat them when thoroughly ripe,
and in some places distil a very good spirit from them. It is probable
that this tree was in high favour with the Druids, for it may to this day
be observed to grow, more frequently than any other tree, in the neigh-
bourhood of those Druidical circles of stones so often seen in North Bri-
tain ; and the superstitious still continue to retain a great veneration for
it, which was undoubtedly handed down to them from early antiquity.
They believe that any small part of this tree, carried about with them,
will prove a sovereign charm against all the dire effects of enchantment
or witchcraft. Their cattle also, as well as themselves, are supposed to
be preserved by it from evil, for the dairymaid will not forget to drive
them to the shealings or summer pastures with a rod of this tree, which
she carefully lays up over the door of the " sheal bothy," and drives them
home again with the same. In Strathspey they make, for the same pur-
pose, on the first day of May, a hoop of rowan wood, and in the morning
and evening cause all the sheep and lambs to pass through it."
WILLOW. — Latin, Salix ; Gaelic, Seileach. Lightfoot mentions six-
teen, and Linnaeus twenty varieties of the willow, natives of the High-
lands, and many more have been discovered since their day. The willow
was a very valuable tree indeed for the old Highlanders, and they con-
verted it into almost endless purposes. The wood, which is soft and pli-
able, they used in many ways, and the young twigs, of course, for basket
work, and even ropes. The bark was used for tanning leather, and the
bark of most of the varieties was also used to dye a black colour, while
that of the white willow gave a dye of a cinnamon colour. The following
extract from " Walker's Hebrides " describes the uses made of the willow
in the Isles : — " The willows in the Highlands even supply the place of
ropes. A traveller there has rode during the day with a bridle made of
them, and been at anchor in a vessel at night, whose tackle and cable
were made of twisted willows, and these, indeed, not of the best kind for
the purpose ; yet, in both cases, they were formed with a great deal of art
and industry, considering the materials. In the islands of Colonsay, Coll,
and Tyree, the people tan the hides of their black cattle with the bark of
the grey willow, and the barks of all the willows are capable of dyeing
black. The foliage of the willow is a most acceptable food for cattle, and
is accordingly browsed on with avidity both by black cattle and horses,
especially in autumn. In the Hebrides, where there is so great a scarcity
of everything of the tree kind, there is not a twig, even of the meanest
willow, but what is turned by the inhabitants to some useful purpose."
YEW. — Latin, Taxus Baccata ; Gaelic, luthar. This valuable tree is
a native of the Highlands, where the remains of some very old woods of
it are to be found, as at Glenure, in Lorn, which takes its name
from the yew. There are also single trees of it of immense size, and of
unknown antiquity in the Highlands, such as the famous old yew in the
churchyard of Fortingall, in Perthshire, described by Pennant, as he saw
it in 1772. He gives the circumference of it as 56^ feet, and it was then
wasted away to the outside shell. Some writers calculate that this tree
must have taken 4000 years to grow that size ; it is impossible now to tell
its age with any certainty. But when we consider its immense size, and
176 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
the slow growing nature of the yew, it is certainly one of the oldest
vegetable relics in the world. When writing out this paper, I wrote to
the minister of Fortingall to enquire what state the old yew was in now,
and was glad to hear from that gentleman that part of it is still fresh, and
sprouting out anew, and likely to live a long time yet. We read of an-
other very large yew tree, which grew on a cliff by the sea side in the
island of Bernera, near the Sound of Mull, and which, when cut, loaded a
six-oared boat, and afforded timber enough, when cut up, to form a very fine
staircase in the house of Lochnell. The wood of the yew is very hard.
elastic, and beautifully veined, and was much prized by the old High-
landers for many purposes, but the great use to which they put it was to
make bows. So highly was the yew esteemed for this purpose that it
was reckoned a consecrated tree, and was planted in every churchyard so
as to afford a ready supply of bows at all times. And in fact, so com-
monly were the bows made of yew, that we find in Ossian and in the
early bards the bow always alluded to as " the yew," or " my yew," as in
" Dan an" Deirg," we have, —
" Mar shaighead o ghlacaibh an iughair,
Bha chasan a' siubhal nam barra-thonn."
And also in Diarmaid, when that hero heard the sound of his comrades
hunting on Beinn Ghuilbeinn he could remain quiet no longer, but ex-
claimed—
" A chraosnach dhearg ca bheil tliu 1
'S ca bheil m' iughar 's mo dhorlach ? "
Smith, in his " Sean Dana," in a note to " Dan an Deirg," says : — Every-
body knows the bow to have been made of yew. Among the Highlanders
of later times, that which grew in the wood of Easragan, in Lorn, was
esteemed the best. The feathers most in vogue for the arrows were
furnished by the eagles of Loch Treig ; the wax for the string by Baile-
na-gailbhinn ; and the arrow-heads by the smiths of the race of Mac
Pheidearain. This piece of instruction, like all the other knowledge of
the Highlanders, was couched in verse —
" Bogha dh' iughar Easragain,
Is ite firein Loch-a-Treig ;
Ceir bhuidhe Bhaile-iia-gailbhinn,
'S ceann o 'n cheard Mac Pheidearain."
That the Highlanders in the early days of Ossian used the yew for other
uses than making bows is proved by the passage in Fingal, describing
Cuchullin's war chariot —
" 'Dh' iuthar faileasach an crann,
Suidhear arm air cnamhan caoin."
" Of shining yew is its pole ;
Of well-smothed bone the seat."
And that our ancestors, in the third century, overshaded their graves with
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 177
yew trees, as we do still, is proved by the passage in Fingal, where, after
Criinor and Cairbar fought for the white bull, when Crimor fell, and
Brasolis, Cair bar's sister, being in love with him, on hearing of his death,
rushed to the hill and died beside him, and yew trees shaded their graves —
" Ehuail cridhe 'bu tla ri 'taobh,
Dh' f halbh a snuagti 'us bhris i tro' 'n fhraoch,
Fhuair i e marbh ; 'us dh' eug i 's an t-sliabh ;
'N so fein, a Chuchullin, tha 'n uir,
'S caoin iuthar 'tha 'fas o'n uaigh."
" Throbbed a tender heart against her side,
Her colour went ; and through the heath she rushed j
She found him dead ; she died upon the hill.
In this same spot, Cuchullin, is their dust,
And fresh the yew-tree grows upon their grave."
ARSSMART (SPOTTED). — Latin, Polygonum persicaria ; Gaelic, Am
Boinne-fola. This is a very common plant in the glens and low grounds
of the Highlands. It is easily known by the red spot on the centre of
every leaf, about which the Highlanders have a curious old superstition,
viz. : — That this plant grew at the foot of our Saviour's cross, and that a
drop of blood fell on each leaf, the stain of which it bears ever since. A
decoction of it was used with alum to dye a bright yellow colour.
BEAR-BERRY. — Latin, Arlmlus uva-ursi ; Gaelic, Braoileagan-nan-con.
The berries of this plant are not eaten, but the old Highlanders used the
plant for tanning leather, and its leaves were used as a cure for the stone
or gravel. It is the badge of the Colquhouns.
BILBERRY, or BLAEBERRY. — Latin, Vaccinium uliginosum ; Gaelic,
Lus-nan-dearcag, or Dearcag Monaidh. I need give no description of
this well-known plant, but may mention that its berries were used in
olden times for dyeing a violet or purple colour. Of this plant Lightfoot
says — " The berries, when ripe, arc of a bluish black colour, but a singu-
lar variety, with white berries, was discovered by His Grace the Duke of
Athole, growing in the woods midway between his two seats of Blair
Athole and Dunkeld. [I may add that this is now known to be a dis-
tinct species — the Vaccinium myrtillus fructu-albo of botanists.] The
berries have an astringent quality. In Arran and the Western Isles they
are given in cases of diarrhoea and dysentery with good effect. The High-
landers frequently eat them in milk, which is a cooling, agreeable food,
and sometimes they make them into tarts and jellies, which they mix
with whisky, to give it a relish to strangers." The blaeberry is the badge
of the Buchanans.
BIRD'S-FOOT TREFOIL. — Latin, ' Lotus corniculatus ; Gaelic, Bar-a'-
mliilsein. This beautiful bright yellow ilower grows all over the High-
lands. It is very much relished by sheep and cattle as food, and was
used by our ancestors for dyeing yellow.
COLT'S-FOOT (COMMON). — Latin, Tassilago farfara ; Gaelic, A n r/allan
gainmlnch ; 1 Ohlitas-Liath. This plant, with its broad greyish leaves,
gi-ows very common in the Highlands, by the side of streams, and in
boggy places. A decoction of it was used for bad coughs or sore breasts.
o
178 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
CROTAL, or LICHEN (PURPLE DYERS). — Latin, Lichen emplialodes ;
Gaelic, Crotal. This small plant, which grows all over stones and old
dykes in the Highlands, is still very much used by Highlanders for dyeing
a reddish brown colour. It was formerly much more used, particularly
for dyeing yarn for making hose, and so much did the Highlanders be-
lieve in the virtues of the crotal that, Avhen they were to start on a long
journey, they sprinkled some of the crotal, reduced to a powder, on the
soles of their hose, as it saved their feet from getting inflamed with the
heat when travelling far.
ELECAMPANE. — Latin, Inula helemum ; Gaelic, Aillcann. This is one
of the largest of our herbaceous plants, as it grows to the height of several
feet. It gives a very bright blue colour, and it was much used for such
by the Highlanders, who added some whortle berries to it to improve the
colour.
HEATHER. — Latin, Erica cinerea ; Gaelic, Fraocli. The heather, the
badge of the Clan Donald, needs no description, but I may give Light-
foot's account of what the Highlander made of it in his day : — " The
heather is applied to many economical uses by the Highlanders. They
frequently cover their houses with it instead of thatch, or else twist it
into ropes and bind down the thatch with them in a kind of lattice work ;
in most of the Western Isles they dye their yarn of a yellow colour, by
boiling it in water with the green tops and flowers of this plant. In Hum,
Skye, and the Long Island, they frequently tan their leather with a
strong decoction of it. Formerly the young tops of it are said to have
been used alone to brew a kind of ale, and even now, I was informed
(1772), that the inhabitants of Isla and Jura still continue to brew a very
potable liquor by mixing two-thirds of the tops with one-third of malt.
This is not the only refreshment that the heather affords. The hardy
Highlanders frequently make their beds with it, laying the roots down-
wards and the tops upwards, which, though not quite so soft and luxuri-
ous as beds of down, are altogether as refreshing to those who sleep on
them, and perhaps much more healthy."
HONEYSUCKLE (DWARF). — Latin, Cornus succica ; Gaelic, Lus-a'-
chraois. This elegant little plant grows very common in Athole, and, I
believe, in many parts of the Northern Highlands, especially Lochbroorn.
It has a white flower, followed by red berries, which have a sweet taste.
The old Highlanders believed that if those berries were eaten they gave
an extraordinary appetite, from which it took its Gaelic name, which. I
find in an old work translated " Plant of Gluttony."
LADIES' MANTLE. — Latin, Alcliemilla vulgaris ; Gaelic, Copan-an-
driuchd, or Cota-preasacli nigluan an High. This pretty little plant grows
in dry pastures and on hill-sides all over the country, and there are end-
less superstitions connected with it, and virtues ascribed to it by the
Highlanders, which, if the half only were true, would make it one of the
most valuable plants growing. Both its Gaelic names are very descriptive
of the leaf of the plant, the first — " Cup of the dew," refers to the cup-
shaped leaf in which the dew lies in large drops every morning ; and the
second — "The king's daughter's plaited petticoat," refers to the well-
known likeness of the leaf, when turned upside down, to a plaited petti-
coat, which might indeed be a pattern for a king' daughter.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 179
MOTHER OF THYME. — Latin, Thynws serpyllum ; Gaelic, Lus Mac-
Righ-Bhreatuinn. This sweet-scented little plant was believed by the
Highlanders to be a preventive or cure for people troubled with disagree-
able dreams or the nightmare, by using an infusion of it like tea.
MUGWORT. — Latin, Artemisia vulgar is ; Gaelic, An Liath-lus. Till
very lately, or perhaps yet, in some of the out-of-the-way glens, this plant
was very much used by the Highlanders as a pot herb, as also was the
young shoots of the nettle, just as they use kale or cabbage now.
SHEPHERD'S PURSE. — Latin, Ihlaspi Bursa-pastoris ; Gaelic, Sporan-
buachaill. This plant is still very much used in the Highlands for
applying to cuts or wounds to stop the bleeding, and it was much more
so in olden times, when such were more common.
SEA WARE. — Latin, Fucus Vesiculosus ; Gaelic, Feamuinn. This
plant is very much used still in the maritime parts of the Highlands in
many ways. It makes an excellent manure for the land, and in some of
the isles it forms part of the winter fodder of cattle, and even deer in hard
winters sometimes feed on it, at the recess of the tide. Lightfoot says that
in Jura, and some of the other isles, the inhabitants used to salt their
cheeses by covering them with the ashes of this plant, which abounds
with salt. But the great use of the sea ware was for making kelp, which
used to be very much made in the Isles, and in fact gave employment to
the most of the inhabitants there. The way in which it was made was :
— The sea ware was collected and dried, then a pit about six feet wide
and three deep was dug, and lined with stones, in which a small fire was
lighted with sticks, arid the dried plant laid on by degrees and burnt,
when it was nearly reduced to ashes the workman stirred it with an iron
rake till it began to congeal, when it was left to cool, after which it Avas
broken up and sent to the market. The average price of kelp in the Isles
was about £3 10s per ton, but when extra care was taken, and skill
shown in the preparation of it, it was worth more.
SILVER WEED, or WILD TANSY. — Latin, Potentilla Anserina ; Gaelic,
Bar-a'-bhrisgein. Of this plant Lightfoot says: — "The roots taste like
parsnips, and are frequently eaten by the common people either boiled or
roasted. In the islands of Tyree and Coll they are much esteemed as
answering the purposes of bread in some measure, they having been known
to have supported the inhabitants for months together during scarcity of
other provisions. They put a yoke on their ploughs and often tear up
their pasture grounds with a view to eradicate the roots for their use, and
as they abound most in barren and impoverished soils, and in seasons that
succeed the worst for other crops, so they never fail to afford the most
seasonable relief to the inhabitants in times of the greatest scarcity. A
singular instance this of the bounty of Providence to those islands."
TORMENTIL. — Latin, Torment ilia Erecta; Gaelic, Bar-lhraonan-nan-con.
This little plant may be said to grow almost everywhere in the Highlands,
where it was once much used for tanning leather, for which purpose it is
far superior even to oak bark. We read that in Coll the inhabitants
turned over so much of the pasture to procure the roots of this plant that
they were forbidden to use it at all by the laird.
ST JOHN'S WORT. — Latin, Hypericum Perforatum ; Gaelic, Achlasan
Challum-Chitte. The old Highlanders ascribed many virtues to this well-
180 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
known plant, and used it in many ways. Boiled with alum in water it
was used to dye yarn yellow, and the flowers put in whisky gave it a
dark purple tinge, almost like port wine. Superstitious Highlanders
always carried about a part of this plant with them to protect them from
the evil effects of witchcraft. They also believed that it improved the
quality and increased the quantity of their cows' milk, especially if the
cows were under the evil effects of witchcraft, by putting this plant into
the pail with some milk, and then milking afresh on it. Another Gaelic
term for this herb is an galbhuidhe, and is thus alluded to in " Miami a'
Bhaird Aosda" : —
" Biodh sobhrach bhan a's aillidh snuadh
Mu'n cuairt do m' tlmlaich 's uain' fo dhriuchd,
'S an neoinean beag 's mo lamb, air cluain
'S an ealbhuidh' aig mo chluais gu h-ur."
VIOLET (SWEET). — Latin, Viola Oder at a ; Gaelic, &ail-chuaich. This
fragrant little flower grows all over the Highlands, and it was much used-
by the Highland ladies formerly, according to the following directions : —
" Sail-chuach 's bainno ghabhar,
Suadh ri t' aghaidh ;
'S cha'n eil mac Righ ar an domhain
K"ach bi air do dheidh."
(" The violet and milk of goat
Rub to thy face,
And not a king's son throughout the globe
But will thee race.")
WHORTLE-BERRY. — Latin, Vaccinium vitis-idcea ; Gaelic, Lasnain-
braoileag. This plant, known to every Highlander, grows on the hills all
over the Highlands. The berries were much used by our ancestors as a
fruit, and in cases of fever they made a cooling drink of them to quench
the thirst. This is the true badge of the Clan Chattan.
WOOD PEASE. — Latin, Orobus t tiler osus ; Gaelic, Cor, Cor-mctlle, or
Peasar-nan-Lucli. The roots of this plant was very much prized by the
old Highlanders, as they are yet by most Highland herds or school boys.
They used to dig them up and dry them and chew them like tobacco, and
sometimes added them to their liquor to give it a strong flavour. They
also use it on long journeys, as it keeps both hunger and thirst away for
a long time ; and in times of scarcity it has been used as a substitute for
bread.
YARROW, or MILFOIL. — Latin, AcliiUea niillifolium ; Gaelic, A' chait-
hir-thalmhain. This plant, so well-known to every old Highland house-
wife, was reckoned the best of all known herbs for stopping the bleeding
of cuts or wounds, and for healing them, and it is even yet made into an
ointment in some out of the way glens in summer, that it may be at hand
in winter, when the plant cannot be procured. They also believed that
it was the best cure for a headache to thrust a leaf of this plant up the
nostrils till the nose bled.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 181
CAPTAIN ERASER OF KNOCKIE'S AIRS AND MELODIES
OF THE HIGHLANDS.
THE following letters — one from Sir Walter Scott, addressed to Captain
Eraser, and hitherto unpublished, and the other from Mr Thomson, Edin-
burgh, will, we doubt not, be read with some curiosity. For these
interesting documents we are indebted to Mr John Noble, bookseller,
Inverness, who found them among some of Captain Eraser's papers which
came into his possession : —
(Letter from Sir Walter Scott.)
" DEAR SIR, — The pressure of business attending my office at the end
of the Session, rendered harder by the indisposition of three of my col-
leagues, has prevented my acknowledging your various communications
until I should have time to write at full length.
" The plan you propose of having your work presented to the King
by the Duke of Buccleuch is totally impossible, because the Duke is a
minor, a student at Cambridge, and does not attend Court, or take upon
him the exercise of his rank and privileges. fHis uncle would not
approve of his assuming any premature step of this kind, nor would it be
consistent with etiquette. The customary way is to make such request
through the Secretary of State, or King's Private Secretary. But there
can be no doubt that if Lord Huntly inclined to take the trouble it could
not be in better or more appropriate hands.
" Respecting the prospectus itself, I am obliged in candour to state
that it contains too many subjects of a nature totally unconnected and
even discrepant to entertain any hope that it will be popular in its present
shape. The mingling of statistics with antiquities may be natural enough,
but do let us have the music, with the musical anecdotes and historical
circumstances allied, separated from and independent of other matter.
" Respecting general points, you may rely upon it that by mixing
many subjects together you will greatly injure the popularity of the work,
whereas if you give us the music and its history alone, you can at your
leisure prepare and publish your tracts upon the other subjects announced
in your prospectus. I am under the necessity of adding that controversial
matters, and such as relate to men's private history and private affairs,
do not enter with propriety into books which, are to be addressed to the
Sovereign. It is also matter of etiquette that the dedication should only
be an inscription, it not being held respectful to deliver to the King,
either in speech or in print, a long discourse. Mention, therefore, of
private misfortunes and injuries would be improper in such a work, and
the omission of these would be of the less consequence ; although they are
what is necessarily most interesting to the writer, it is very difficult to put
them into such a shape as can anywise interest the public.
" I am afraid you will consider this advice of mine very intrusive, but
you asked to have my opinion, and I must give it with sincerity. I have
never known a book well received which involved too many subjects uncon-
nected with each other, and with your skill, taste, and musical know-
ledge, you should certainly make the music your first object, laying aside
182
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
everything that is not naturally connected with it. Besides, the swelling
out your work with miscellaneous matter unconnected with the principal
subject, will be attended with much expense, and, in proportion, diminish
the author's profits.
" I have received safely the two Gaelic manuscripts, which are to me,
however, a fountain sealed and a book shut, notwithstanding the ancient
Gaelic. I should like to see some of the contents literally translated, but
being of such recent date, I am afraid you will hardly be able to bring
the contents to bear on the Ossianic controversy. I will keep the manu-
script with great care at your disposal. I have endeavoured to express
my opinion respecting the work to Lady Huntly, with whom I had the
honour of corresponding about something else. — I have the honour to be,
Dear Sir, your obedient servant,
(Signed) " WALTER SCOTT.
"Edinburgh, 12th March 1825.
" My address for some time hence will be Abbotsford, Melrose."
(Letter from John Thomson, Esq., Edinburgh.)
" MY DEAR SIR, — I presume you have received a letter which I wrote
about ten days since, and entrusted to Mr Paul's care to be conveyed to
you. I have since received your parcel, but the gentleman who handed
it in having left no address, I must trust to his calling for this answer
before he leaves town.
" Having carefully examined the airs you have sent me, I must frankly
confess that they have disappointed me, with one or two exceptions.
They are almost all too florid for national melodies, and in many cases
they are not at all characteristic, i.e., they have not the peculiar Highland
accent which would stamp them as real national Highland airs. It is
one thing to have melodies composed by a Highlander, and quite another
to have Highland melodies, for in the former case the airs may have no
distinctive features at all, while in the other the distinctive feature is
absolutely necessary. My own compositions are not necessarily Scotch,
because I am a Scotchman, and so of the Highland melodies you have
sent me, the following bar
in the ' Fall of
Foyers ' is common to every species of melody except national, and the
conclusion
93
is even more objectionable.
Observe what a contrast is ' He is gone to the mountain,' and the ' Cow-
boy.' The three last bars of the dirge are inadmissable in a national
melody, nay, the character of the air is violated by such florid passages.
In 'Ye lovely blossoms,'
such passages as
are not Highland,
and
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 183
" Thus, then, I would class them : —
" 1st, Good and genuine — ' The Fiery Cross ' ; '0 ! Mourn the Chief' ;
' The crazed and captive'; 'The lonely Isle'; 'The Cowboy'; 'He is
gone to the mountain ' ; ' Come, let us to Killin ' ; ' Dear Albyn.'
" 2d, Requiring to be simplified, but good also — ' Dear Maid ' ;
' Dirge ' ; ' Ye lovely blossoms ' ; ' 0 can you love me ? '
"3d, Not characteristic — 'When Abercrombie ' — too Irish, and like
the ' Eose Tree ' ; ' The Fall of Foyers '—too English ; ' The heath this
night ' ; ' The Maid of Killing — too Irish.
" 4th, Indifferent — ' The Poet's Grave ' ; ' Bird of the Wilderness.'
" But in calling the two first classes good, I do not mean to imply that
they are by any means what I expected in Highland melodies.
" Those which I have heard Mrs Macleod of Macleod, senior, sing
were wild and plaintive in a remai-kable degree, totally unlike other music.
They were sung with Gaelic words, and the effect was striking.
" Such are the kind of Highland melodies I had in my mind when I
expressed myself to you so warmly in admiration of them. The accom-
paniments, I am sorry to say, will not do — besides being too incorrect for
publication, they want character, and are greatly overloaded with notes.
Should this, however, not appear to you and your friends a sufficiently
strong objection to their retention, I must be relieved from all responsi-
bility of superintendence which could for a moment imply my sanction.
" Would it not be better at once to apply to Mr FinLiy Dun to arrange
the whole, which I daresay he would undertake, commencing immediately,
— for, as I have already told you, it is impossible for me until after this
time next winter — and I cannot think of sanctioning the appearance of
any number of the work unless the arrangements are entirely remodelled.
"It is better to tell you the real truth now, that there may be no
future misapprehension on the subject. — Yours truly,
(Signed) " JOHN THOMSON.
"Edin., 5th November 1839."
EWEN MORRISON'S RAID ON HARRIS.
THE traditional account of the origin of the Morrisons is as follows : —
They are, according to some, descended from one Mary, but who this
Mary was they do not say ; by others that they sprung from Morus, son
of Kinaunus, natural son of one of the Kings of Norway. The Seanachies
of the Western Isles emphatically assert that they are descended from
Muire, Aulay Macaulay's sister ; that she and her brother being invited
by Liot, or Macleod, she either accompanied or followed the latter to
Lews, where she married, ultimately settled at Ness, and became
the mother of one son and several daughters. Whether Muire, Moire,
Marion, or Muriel, whichever is the correct name, was married to a native
of the Long Island, of Skye, of the Mainland, or to a Norwegian, it is im-
possible to say, but it is evident that the son's designation was from the
mother — for he was called "Gille Mhuire," a designation which,
in course of usage, assumed its present form, " na Moireasonich," or Mor-
risons, though they are sometimes called " Clann Mac Gille Mhaithrail,"
184 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
One early summer morning in the fourteenth century, a large band
of tlio Morrisons of Ness, under the command of their Chief, " Eoghamn
Mac Gillc Maithrail," attacked the Macaulays of Uig, killing many of
them, and carrying away much spoil, and then proceeded southward
to ravage the Island of Harris. They arrived at the township of Husli-
inish, a little after daybreak. The hamlet was still and quiet, none of
its inhabitants being yet astir, with the exception of a boat-builder and
his two sons, who were busily engaged on a boat they were building, and
which had to be ready by a certain day.
They were thus up betimes on the morning in question, busily pro-
secuting their calling at the north end of the hamlet, when, unfortunately
for them, they were observed by the Morrisons advancing in their direc-
tion, though yet some distance away. They approached the boat-builders
cautiously ; and the first notice the elder received of their approach was
the appalling sight of his murdered sons lying dead at his side, the
Morrisons having shot them down with a volley of barbed arrows. The
unhappy man was so suddenly, and in such a terrible manner, made aware
of his situation that he scarcely knew what to do. To defend himself
against such preponderating odds he knew to be impossible. Acting on
the impulse of the moment, he took to flight, ran for his life in the direc-
tion of the sea-shore, hotly pursued by the Morrisons, shooting their
arrows after him in such rapid succession, that they fell around him thick
as hail. He, however, managed to escape scatheless ; by almost super-
natural strength and swiftness, he reached the sea, at a spot near which
was the entrance to the cave known as Geo Mor Fladail, and of the ex-
istence of which the Morrisons were ignorant. He leaped at once into
the foaming sea, and swam into the cave. Though there is a beach of
considerable size within the cave, nearly a quarter of a mile in length, its
entrance, from which the sea never recedes, is so small that it cannot be
seen from the top of the perpendicular rock which towers above it No
sooner therefore, did the carpenter disappear in the sea than the
Morrisons thought him drowned, and that their arrival in Harris would
be still unknown to the inhabitants, Avhom they intended to spoil, and
slaughter in cold blood. Under this impression they returned to Hush-
inish, and massacred its inhabitants to a man, after which they attacked
the adjacent townships, and annihilated the people in the same remorse-
less manner.
The boat-builder, meantime, left the cave, and finding a boat, keel
upwards, about high-water mark, he launched it, and placing the dead
bodies of his sons on board, proceeded to the Island of Berneray, in the
sound of Harris, a distance of some thirty miles. Arriving there he in-
formed Macleod, the Chief of that island, of what had taken place at
Hushiuish, at the same time showing him the dead bodies of his sons.
Macleod lost no time in raising the war-cry, to which a hearty response
was given ; and in 'a short time Macleod and his hardy followers were
sailing for the mainland of Harris to oppose the murderous progress of
their enemies. The plunderers had, meantime, attacked Bunamhaiueder,
Ardhasaig, Leachdin, Tarbert, Diraclite, and Luskintyre. They then
crossed to the island of Tarusay, plundering and slaughtering indiscri-
minately, male and female, as they went.
It was only on his arrival at Tarbert that Macleod and his followers
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 185
learned that the Morrisons had crossed over to Tarnsay, but no sooner
did they make this discovery than they directed their course to that
island. Berneray, as we shall continue to call Macleod, landed at a place
on the island then nameless, but which, since, has been called
Rudha Chinnigir, or Victor's Point. Arriving at the village of Tarnsay,
Berneray found the Morrisons regaling themselves after having massacred
every soul on the island, and listening for a moment at the window of
the house in which they were feasting, he heard one of them remark that
something very wonderful was wrong with him, "For," said he, " although
I can chew my food as well as ever, I cannot swallow anything." " And
that is a great pity," said Berneray load enough to be heard by the
revellers, " for soon you will neither be able to chew or swallow." In
a second 'the speaker inside was a corpse by Berneray's well-directed
arrow, shot in through the window. This was the common signal for a
general attack, but though the Harrismen urged their leader to allow them
enter the building, and extinguish the Morrisons before they could defend
themselves, Berneray would give no such permission. " Allow the
savages," he said, " to come outside ; give them a chance to fight for their
lives." The Harrismen had not long to wait, for they had scarcely taken
up their position when they were furiously attacked by the Morrisons.
Berneray led, and was the first to strike a terrible blow, "which fell
with both skill and might, at the enemy, for two Morrisons fell lifeless
as soon as they appeared outside. A dreadful hand-to-hand fight com-
menced, and the carnage was truly horrible. Heads were lopped off, and
cloven in dozens. The Morrisons for a short time fought bravely enough,
but they were at length compelled to give way before the terrible on-
slaught of Berneray and his followers, whose every blow told with mortal
effect, and finding that their case was desperate, the Morrisons retreated,
shouting at the top of their voices, " Gu sgeir, gu sgeir, a bhallachaibh
Leodhais " (To the rock, to the rock, ye lads of Lews). The rock was a
small one in the vicinity of the place where the fight took place, and al-
though it can be reached dry-shod at low water, the sea surrounded it at
full flood. To this rock the Morrisons fled for safety ; but being closely
followed by Berneray and his men, it soon proved a place of poor refuge
for the now miserable wretches, for on it Berneray made terrible havoc,
having, with one solitary exception, slain the whole gang. The rock
received that day the name of the Sgeir bhuailte, or Smitten rock, which
it bears to the present time, and when any great disturbance of the sands
takes place by the storm, large numbers of men's bones may yet be seen
around the Smitten rock.
The solitary Morrison Avho escaped with his life was " Eoghainn Mac
Gille Mhaithrail" himself — which he did by jumping into the sea,
and swimming across the sound to the mainland of Harris. He landed
at a rock on Traigli 2'horgobosd, or the shore of Torgobost, which rock
has been called " Sgeir Eoghainn," or Ewen's Rock, ever since. Though
Eoghainn managed to escape with his life, he carried with him fearful
marks of the terrible combat, having no less than nine arrows deeply
embedded in his back and thighs, the wounds of which he bore during the
remainder of his life.
Eoghairm Mac Gille Mhaithrail must have been possessed of prodigious
186 THE CELTIC MAGAZI^ I •:.
strcngth,otherwise lie could neverhave accomplished the feat above described
— fight so bravely for his . life at Tarnsay, and afterwards swim across a
sound fully two miles in breadth, while his flesh was literally torn by
arrows and swords, and nine of the former sticking in his body.
A lew years after these events occurred, a Harrisman, called Iain Mac
Dhomhnuill Mhic Aonghais, or John, son of Donald son of Angus, a
native of Berneray, went to the Lews to buy horses. He arrived at the
parish of Ness about sunset ; and, approaching a township, he met a man
pulling heather, who had just finished his day's work, and was putting on
his long woollen vest before starting home, when Iain came up to him.
After the usual salutations and questionings, the stranger was invited to
share the usual hospitality and shelter for the night ; an invitation which
was readily accepted. After the other members of the family had retired
for the night, the host and the stranger sat beside the fire for some time,
relating stories of the olden times to one another. The host at length
remarked that it was a custom in the Lews, before retiring for the night,
to make a " Garradh cul has," or warm their loins before the fire.
Suiting the action to the words, he turned his back to the fire, and raising
his feille — a loose sort of garment shaped more like a female's petticoat than
the modern kilt — began to warm himself. Neither kilts of the present
style nor trousers were in use in Lews in those clays. Iain noticed that
the man's loins had been at one time subjected to a dreadful laceration,
and remarked —
"It was not at the fireside that you got these marks, my friend."
"Bu dhian do dha laimh ga 'n cur ann," or diligent were both thy
hands inflicting them, answered the host gravely.
" This is not a time to remember bad deeds," rejoined the other.
" Nor am I going to do so ; if you had not treated me so I would
assuredly have served you as you did me."
The reader would have already corrrectly surmised that Iain's host
was none other than Eoghainn Mac Gille Mhaithrail, the hero of Sgeir
Eoghainn, and on discovering who his entertainer was, Iain became
doubtful as to his personal safety ; but Eoghainn, noticing his agitated
state, assured him that he had heartily forgiven him for the past, and that
he was not only free from danger in his house, but that he would have
full protection from himself while in the Lews.
With this assurance Iain retired to bed, and slept as sound as ever
he did in his life. In the morning he was served with the best breakfast
that Eoghainn's press could afford. Before leaving, the latter requested
John to accompany him to the stable to see a pair of beautiful black
horses which he had just put in. lain went, and admiring the horses,
said, " They are a splendid pair, indeed. It is not in every man's stable
the like of them could be seen." " I hope then," said Eoghainn, " that
you will be pleased to accept them as an acknowledgment from me, in
return for the chastisement you gave me at Tarnsay, for ever since that
day I have not followed the life of a raider." Iain, it need hardly be
said, accepted the horses with many acknowledgments and thanks.
The island of Tarnsay, and the other portions of Harris plundered by
the Morrisons, were pleasant and fertile places; were soon again peopled ;
and were in a few years as nourishing and populous as ever.
MAO IAIN,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 187
GENEALOGICAL NOTES AND QUERIES.
THE following queries indicate how this new feature of the Celtic Magazine is likely to
be appreciated. We respectfully request our friends, learned in such matters, to aid us
and those requiring information by answering such queries as may fiom time to time be
put in this department. To secure insertion, contributions must reach us in every case
not later than the 15th of each month before publication. Parties will please to be as
concise and exact in both queries and answers as possible. In all cases the full name
and address must be sent us in confidence, where contributors do not wish their names
to appear.
DUNBAR. — Sir, — Finding by a note in your last issue that you propose opening a
Note and Query column in your Magazine, I ask permission through that medium about
some Dunbars whoso genealogies I am anxious to ascertain. James Dunbar, merchant,
burgess of Inverness, was dead ante 1655, and was— when in the flesh — immediate elder
brother to Alexander Dunbar of Balmuckitie, merchant, burgess, and Provost of Inver-
ness. James left two daughters, Christian m. Kobert Barlow of Mulderge, and Janet m.
another James Duubar. Janet and James had a son. Alexander, who in later years was
styled ot Balmuckitie, owning it by disposition from Alexander the said Provost.
Were Alexander, the Provost, and James his brother descended from Mr Thomas Dun-
bar, Dean of Moray, and Mr Alexander, also Dean of Moray, his eldest son, who had
charters of Balmuckitie in 1607, and if so, how did the younger brother own it? Who
also was the elder James's spouse, and of what family was the younger James? -I am,
yours, &c., F. MEDENHAM.
THE CHIEF OP THE MACKENZIES.— I am glad to see that you are going to open the
pages of your Magazine for the purpose of obtaining information regarding the genea-
logies of our Highland families. Can you, who are so well informed on all questions
affecting the Clan Mackenzie, inform me if Allangrange is really the undoubted Chief of
the ClaB ? Who composed the jury tkat voted him Chief at Tain in 1829? The Chief-
ship was claimed at the same time by the late Captain William Mackenzie of Gruinard,
and some years before by a Captain Murdo Mackenzie, of London. What relationship
to Seaforth were these claims founded upon, and how were they disposed of ? If Allan-
grange is really Chief, failing his succession, who would, in that case, be Chief of the
Clan ? These are important questions to
London. A CABAB.
GRIZELL URQUHART AND ISABELLA MACLEOD.— Sought ; the further history of two
ladies named G-rizell Urquhart and Isabella Macleod. The former was sole surviving
child of Colonel James Urquhart, the last direct representative of the Urquharts of
Cromarty. He died in 1741— so said— and was buried on 2d of January of that year.
She is said by the Baronage to have died unmarried. The latter. Isabella, was the
eldest daughter of Korie Macleod of Cambuscurrie, in Ross-shire. He married in 1686,
and she is said by the Baronage to have been "honorably married." Elsewhere they
are both said to have been married to husbands, named Ros, Rose, Ross, or Rosse. Any
light into this Scotch mist will oblige, K.RUKS.
THE CHIEF OF THE MATHESONS. — Who is the present Chief of the Mathesons.of
Lochalsh? It is understood that Alexander Matheson of Ardross and Lochalsh, M.P.,
does net claim that distinction. Is this the case ? Was the late Sir James Matheson of
the Lews, as said by some, Chief of the Mathesons of Sutherland ? Who is the present
Chief ? MATHON.
THE CUTHBERTS OF INVERNESS.— Can any of your readers tell me if any representa-
tives of this old family are still in existence, and, if so, what position they occupy ? I
find members of the family were married into nearly all the leading families in the
Highlands, and in this way, about two hundred years ago, Cuthbert blood came into my
own family. I am thus anxious to learn all I can about the Cuthberts of Castlehill,
Inverness.
Leeds. ANGLO CELT.
HISTORY OF THE CAMERONS.— Can you or any of your readers inform me if there is
any unpublished MS. History of this Clan or any other documents which would throw
light on its origin and early annals. ANTIQUARIAN.
THE ORIGINAL MACKENZIES OF SAND.— Who was spoken of as " Sand " (Gairloch)
about the year 1743 ? In an old business book, goods are frequently invoiced to " Sand,"
or to be placed to " Sand's account." The enquirer would be glad to learn by whom he
was represented at his death. M.M.C.
HOSSACK.— To whom was Katharine, daughter of ProTost John Hossack, of Inver-
ness, married in 1745 ? and who was the father of her husband ?
Moorside, Chester.
188 THE CELTIC MAGAZINK.
THE "EDUCATIONAL NEWS" ON TEACHING GAELIC
IN HIGHLAND SCHOOLS.
NOTHING could better show the great progress which common sense is making
on this question than a leading article which appeared in a recent issue of
the Educational News on Mr Jolly's report to the Education Department.
Though it is uncommonly like what we have ourselves repeatedly said on
the same subject, it is such a sign of the times, coming from such a
quarter as the organ of the Educational Institute of Scotland, that, with
no little pleasure, we reproduce it in these pages. For the great change
of opinion in educational circles on this all-important question to High-
landers, we are greatly indebted to Mr Jolly, H.M.I.S., who, though not
a Highlander himself, seems to be getting, the more he becomes acquainted
with the country and its requirements, more Celtic in spirit than the
Highlanders themselves ; and his last and best report was so thoroughly
practical and sensible as apparently to revolutionize educational opinion in
favour of the Highlands. The News says : —
In a large number of Highland parishes, Gaelic is the vernacular tongue of the
people. The younger children are acquainted with Gaelic, and with Gaelic alone.
English is, in their own phrase, "the other language," of which they profess no know-
ledge. We are not to discuss here the merits of the Gaelic language, nor the question
whether its continuance as a living, spoken language should be fostered and encouraged.
These questions lie outside the scope of our present purpose. That Gaelic has a litera-
ture of its own, a literature "varied, abundant, and powerful, full of fine sentiment,
pleasant humour, lyrical beauty, deep feeling, practical wisdom, and natural life," no
one will deny. How far the continuance of Gaelic as a spoken language hinders the de-
velopment of the Celt, and operates as a barrier to success in life, is an open question,
the discussion of which may be safely left in the hands of such champions as Professor
Blackie. What we have to deal with is a practical question of pressing importance— the
question, as Mr Jolly well says, " of the right use in schools of the daily language of
300,000 of our people." We cannot give this question the go-by. It must be faced and
solved ; and the sooner it is manfully faced, the sooner shall we arrive at a solutUn.
It is to betray the grossest ignorance of all true education to say that wo ought to
ignore Gaelic, and teach every child English from the very beginning. We cannot do this
even if we would, and we should not do it even if we could. The child thinks in Gaelic,
speaks in Gaelic — all its associations are suggested by Gaelic, and English is as much a
foreign tongue as Greek or Hebrew. It is utterly impossible to teach there Highland
children except through the medium of their own tongue. We fancy this is HOW gene-
rally admitted ; and certain homeopathic concessions in the Code would seem to indicate
that the fact has penetrated into the recesses of the Department. We would refer our
readers to Mr Jolly's remarks on this point, all of which are sensible and judicious.
But it is equally patent that, if the scholars are to be taught through the medium
of Gaelic, the teacher must be acquainted with that language ; and here we are brought
face to face with a difficulty which, at this moment, is engaging the anxious considera-
tion of all who are interested in the education of the Highlands aud Islands. How are
Gaelic speaking teachers to be obtained? The supply already falls far short of the de-
mand ; and our own advertising columns bear striking testimony to this, containing, as
Ihey have done for some mouths past, continuous advertisements for teachers in some of
the Islands, the repetition of which shows the difficulty of securing, we shall not say
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 189
high-class men, but men of any sort. And, in this respect, we are not sure whether tha
state of matters that existed previous to the passing of the Act of 1872 was not better
than that which now exists. Previous to that time, a Certificated Teacher was not
essential in every Public School. No school could obtain grants, unless the teacher were
certificated ; but, in many cases, school managers were content to secure the services of
a fair Gaelic speaking teacher, and forego the grants, rather than be compelled to shut
their school altogether. Now, however, the requirement of a certificate is obligatory ;
and the number of Gaelic speaking certificated teachers is growing rapidly and ominously
less. From pretty accurate information, which we have been enabled to collect, we
have come to the conclusion that, unless some remedy be speedily applied, Gaelic-speak-
ing teachers will become extinct. This does not arise, in any degree, from any unwilling-
ness on the part of the Highland youth to adopt the profession of teaching. Naturally
they are fond of it. They see in it a means of raising themselves in the social scale ;
and numbers, we are convinced, would annually offer themselves for admission to our
ranks, were not the door, through no fault of their own, shut in their face. And this
comes to pass in this way.
A large proportion of our teachers now come annually from our Training Colleges.
Admission to these 'Colleges is guarded by a stringent admission examination. We do
not mean to say that this examination is too stringent. We do not think it is. But, in
the meantime, it practically acts as an effectual bar against the admission of all who
have not enjoyed a good preliminary training. And it is just at this point that the
Highland difficulty comes in. Candidates from the Highlands have not within their
reach the means of obtaining this preliminary training. We have it on the authority of
the Principal of one of our Training Colleges that, at the last examination for admission,
more than twenty-six Gaelic speaking young men— all of them purpose like, sterling
young fellows —presented themselves, net ene of whom came up to the Government require-
ment. We are not far wide of the mark when we say that not more than two per cent.
of those who passed the last examination were Gaelic speaking. The natural effect of
this is obvious. Young men, who would form excellent teachers, and do incalculable
service in our Highland straths and glens, will seek some other avenue into public life,
and will not run the risk of being rejected when they come seeking admission into the
ranks of the teaching profession.
What remedy can be proposed for this state of matters ? Some would at once
answer that the standard for admission should be lowered. We believe no one who has
the best interests of the Highlands at heart would make any such suggestion. The
Highlands require high-class teachers as much as any part of Scotland. The true
remedy lies in devising some means whereby these lads shall obtain the necessary pre-
liminary training. This they cannot obtain in many parts of the Highlands. "To
come out." in order to obtain it, involves expense, and money is not over plentiful in t!ie
Highlands. We fear it would be idle to ask the Department to do anything in the way
of instituting preliminary bursaries. There are practical difficulties in the w«y of a
very serious kind. But surely there are enough spirit and patriotism in the Highlands
to induce the people to take this matter into their own hands. They have raised up-
wards of £10,000 to found and endow a Gaelic Chair in the University of Edinburgh.
The half of this sum would institute a numher of bursaries, to enable young men to
start on equal terms with the more favoured Southerner. The bursaries need not be of
large amount. A Highland lad can make a little go a long way. His wants are few ;
and we are satisfied that a sum of £10 or £15 would enable him to attend some public
institution where the defects of his early training could be made up, and where he would
have the opportunity of proving that, on equal terms, he can hold his own against all
comers.
The Highland glens mpy be dotted with elegant school buildings. These buildings
may gladden the eye and adorn the country. They may be equipped with all the most
recent educational appliances ; but they will not become. centres of light and culture,
until they are manned by intelligent, well trained teachers, who, from their knowledge
of the native tongue, shall be able to reach the heart, as well as the intelligence, of their
scholars, and so to call forth those latent energies which will enable them successfully
to commence the battle of life. How to procure such teachers is a problem the solution
of which deseives the most serious consideration, and to which we shall be glad to lend
any assistance in our power.
190 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
OUR GAELIC BIBLE.
III.
THE year 1801 will long be memorable in the Highlands of Scotland as
that which first gave us in our mother-tongue a complete translation of
the entire Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments. But the comple-
tion of that noble work, imperishable monument though it be to the piety
and the patriotic . enterprise of the Society for Propagating Christian
Knowledge, cannot be said to have to any great extent put the "Word of
God in the hands of the Highland people. Of these, the minutes of the
Society bear that, so far as could be ascertained, there were at the time
" 300,000 who understood no other language but Gaelic, or at least were
incapable of receiving religious instruction through any other." The same
estimate is repeated in 1811 by the first promoters of the Gaelic School
Society. It may therefore be accepted as substantially correct. In a
subsequent chapter we shall inquire how far it could be said that these
300,000 Gaelic-speaking people were able to read the Gaelic Bible if they
possessed it. What most concerns us at present is to remember that not
more than five hundred complete copies, all told, of the Old Testament
were now available for distribution ; and what were they among so many
as 300,000 souls 1 By the time Dr Stuart was ready with the third
volume of the translation, the first, second, and fourth volumes had
already to a great extent been disposed of ; so that in our far Highland
glens many an aged saint of those days, hungering for the "Word, must
have felt himself in a predicament not unlike that of the school-boy who,
after an early and frugal breakfast, found that before completing the four
or five miles walk to school the barley bannock intended for his mid-day
meal had already been forestalled ! Moreover, the few remaining com-
plete copies of the work were in a form both expensive and exceedingly
inconvenient for use ; there being four volumes of the Old Testament,
and the New Testament, which made a fifth volume, being of an
entirely different size. A new issue of the work, in more portable form,
and at a moderate price, Avas thus imperatively called for ; and to this
task the directors of the Society now vigorously applied themselves, as a
matter which they felt to be essential to the success of their great and
benevolent enterprise. But the new labour brought them a rich crop of
new anxieties, the main interest of which, to the present generation,
centres in the objections urged against the re-publication of Dr Smith's
translation of the Prophets. On the merits of that old controversy we
have long ago formed our own conclusions. But we cannot discuss them
here — all discussion on points of sacred criticism and Biblical interpreta-
tion being properly excluded from the Celic Magazine. It may, however,
be freely admitted, even in these pages, that grave inconveniences could
scarcely fail to attend the common use in our land of a Gaelic Bible which
uttered a sound to any serious extent discordant with the utterances of
the authorized English version. The writer once had himself an ex-
perience of what may be called a minor inconvenience of this sort, which
was yet for the moment sufficiently disconcerting. And it was occasioned,
THE CELTIC HA.GAZINE. 191
not by Smith's Prophets, but by one of the few discrepancies between the
English Bible and the Gaelic quarto of 1826. Happening to spend a few
days in a country place where a Gaelic Bible was not at hand, he prepared
his Gaelic sermon on a text taken from the English Bible. A long walk on
a fine summer morning brought him to church just in time to go straight into
the pulpit, where, on opening the Gaelic Bible —let the candid reader judge
of his dismay — he found that the text as therein translated, though not
materially differing from the English, yet missed entirely the point on which
was meant to hinge the whole burden of " the following remarks !" That
the public use of Dr Smith's Prophets side by side with the English
Bible would certainly have led to inconveniences of graver import than
this, is sufficiently evident, for the divergence of the former from the latter
is in many passages marked and significant. Whether on critical grounds
the divergence was a virtue or a blemish we do not here inquire. What
most concerns us here is to know that in yielding to the objections urged
against Dr Smith's work, the directois were careful to leave on their re-
cords a lasting testimony of their high opinion of his learning and ability
as a Biblical scholar. " Dr Smith in translating his portion had been at
very considerable pains to make himself acquainted with the Eastern style
of writing, with the views of the prophets and the particular events to
which their predictions referred. In doing this he found it necessary to
consult a great number of the most learned authors on the subject, and from
observations of his own he compared a summary view of the Old Testa-
ment prophets, explaining their figurative style of writing and making
out the objects they had in view in each particular chapter." The
directors so much approved of the work that they agreed to be at the ex-
pense of printing one thousand copies of it " in a frugal manner" for use
in their schools.*
With this handsome compliment to Dr Smith, those Avho revere his
memory can afford to be content, satisfied as well they may be that the
directors of the Society, in throwing overboard his portion of their great
work, were constrained to do so by the force of circumstances which,
apart altogether from the merits of the work or the competency of the
translator, it was impossible for them to disregard. Eor alike the temper
of the times and the views of inspiration then universally held in Scotland
were such that the question to be disposed of was really whether King
James' English should give place to Dr Smith's Gaelic, or vice versa.
That the two could not stand together was a foregone conclusion. So
put, and in all the circumstances, the matter could at the time admit of
no other verdict than that which was given. When, however, the
revisers now sitting from time to time in the Jerusalem chamber have
completed their difficult and most delicate task, it is not unlikely that
some one may be bold enough to raise the question whether that verdict
ought not then to be reconsidered.
Thus it became necessary to find a new translator for the Prophets.
Dr Smith could, of course, have no hand in undoing his own work, and
* This work is not in my possession, but through the kindness of Mr Donald Mac-
kinnon, I am favoured with the following note regarding it : — " Dr Smith was a,
voluminous writer. His prophetical book is ' A Summary View and Explanation of the
Writings of the Prophets, 12mo : Edinburgh 1787." There was a " New Edition revised
by the Kev. Peter Hall, M.A., 12mo : London 1835."
192 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Dr Stewart, of Luss, who readily undertook the rest of the work, felt
himself restrained, as a point of honour, from touching the work of his
friend and fellow-labourer in the original version of 1783-1801. The task
of bringing the obnoxious " Prophets " into harmony with the English
version fell thus to the pen of Dr Alexander Stewart, the distinguished
author of our best existing Gaelic grammar, and the minister successively
of Moulin, Dingwall, and Canongate. His fee was one hundred guineas.
The Society's appeal for the funds required to produce this new work
met with a response so liberal that it was resolved to contract for an issue
of 20,000 copies instead of 10,000, as was at first intended. The estimate
for paper and printing was £2284 10s, "a sum greatly beyond what they
have as yet collected ; notwithstanding which, the directors, confiding in
Providence and in public generosity, ordered the Avork to the above extent
to be put to the press, and it is now carrying on (1804) under the im-
mediate superintendance of a clergyman eminently well qualified for the
office, but advancing more slowly than could be wished." Among many
" impediments " to the progress of the work the directors mention "the
workmen's total ignorance of the language in which they print and the
singular difficulty of the Gaeljc orthography." " Errors, consequently,
are frequent, and many proofs of the same portion are requisite." The
report of 1806 " regrets that the new edition of the Gaelic Bible has not
been carried on with that expedition which would accord witli their own
wishes and the expectations of the public. But the revised copy extend-
ing to the book of Hosea is now prepared for the press." The work was
completed in 1807. It is in two volumes 12mo, containing only the Old
Testament, but uniform with the Luss !STew Testament (1796), of which
a large supply was still on hand.
Among collectors of Gaelic books there is more or less prevalent a sort
of vague impression that the British and Foreign Bible Society's first
edition of the Gaelic Bible was printed from the types set up for this
edition of 1807 by the Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge — a
misconception probably suggested by lieid's statement in loco that "the
Society ottered the British and Foreign Bible Society half the impression,
on condition that they paid their share of the expense, which ^ca^ n<'e<>i>h'il"
In the minutes of the Society we can trace no evidence of such a transaction.
On the contrary it seems to us that by implication at least there is evi-
dence that, though it may have been contemplated, the transaction in
question was never really entered into. For the minutes contain an ex-
pression of the Scotch Society's gratification that besides the 20,000 copies
of its own edition, an additional issue of 20,000 copies was also to be
printed in London at the expense of the English Society. Be that matter,
however, as it may, it is clear that the two editions were printed from
types manifestly different. Both editions were published in 1807, but
the Scotch edition has a somewhat larger page and type than the English.
The former uses throughout the long old-fashioned s, like /, in the text
and notes, whereas the latter has the modern form of that letter. The
sheets, moreover, are differently numbered for the binder, and the num-
ber of sheets in the two editions is not the same. But there is a more
material difference between them. " In many places," as Keid observes,
of the British and Foreign Bible Society's edition, Dr Daniel Dewar,
afterwards the learned Principal of Marischal College in Aberdeen, on
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
193
whom devolved the labour of putting it through the press, " follows the
original translation of Smith in preference to the altered one of Stewart."
These deviations from the Scotch Society's revised version are not so many
or of so great moment as Eeid's words would seem to imply. JFor the
most part they are not more serious than the change by Principal Dewar
in Isaiah i. 25, of shalchar and staoin in Stewart's version to sliloit and
shalchar respectively. The only changes of note that we have marked
are in Isaiah ix., where it may be well to compare the three versions of
Smith, Alexander Stewart, and Principal Dewar : —
Stewart.
Gidheadh clia bhi an
doillearachd mar a bha il
linn a hamhghstir, an uair a
bhuail e gu h-eutrom an
toiseach talamh Shabuloiu
agus talnmh Naphtali, agus
na dheigh sin bhuail e ni
bu truirae e air slighe na
fairge, taobh thall lurdain,
Galile nan cinneacb.
Dewar.
Acb cba bbi dorchadas
innte-san a bba ann an tains :
oir anns an aimsir caidh
seachad, dh'islicb e talamh
Sbubuloin agus talamh
Naphthali, ach anns an aim-
sir dbeireanaicb rinn e
glormbor e, air slighe na
fairge, taobh thall lurdain,
Galile nan cinneach.
Smith.
1. Ach cha bhi 'na dheigh
so dorchadas aims an fhear-
ann a bha 'na theinn : anns
an aimsir a chaidh seachad
dh' isliuli e fearann Shebu-
loin, agus fearaun Naphthali;
ach anns an aimsir dheirean-
aich riiin e glormhor e :
eadhon slighe na fairge, taobh
thall lordain, Galile nan
cinneach.
Similar changes may be seen in verses 2, 3, and 5 of the same chapter.
After all, however, Principal Dewar's changes 011 Dr Alexander
Stewart are small game indeed compared with the latter's changes on the
original version of Dr Smith. We hope ere long to bring out a reprint
of that most interesting work. Meanwhile such readers of the Celtic
Magazine as cannot turn to the book itself may compare the rival versions
in the following extracts, which are taken at random : —
Alex, Stewart.
Is truagh dhoibhsan a ta 'g orduchadh
reachdan eucorach, na scriobhuichean a
ta 'g aithneadh fomeirt.
Smith.
Isaiah x. 1. — Mo thruaighe iadsan a ta
breithneachadh brt-itheanais eucoraich ;
na scriobhuichean a ta 'g orduchadh
foirueirt.
5. Ho! do'n Asirianach,slatmochorruich,
an lorg aig am bheil 'na laimh acfuinn 'm
fheirge !
Isaiah ix. 5. — Oir luireach-luirgnean a'
ghaisgeich armaichte fa chomhrag, agus
an trusgan air a thumadh ann am moran
fala, bithidh air son losgaidh, eadhon nan
connadh air son an teine.
Isaiah i. 1. — Faisneachd Isaiah rnhic
Amois, a dh' fhoillsicheadh dha, &c.
Isaiah i. 5. — Ciod am ball air am buail
sibh a ris, air an leag sibh tuille smach-
dachaidh ? tha'n ceann uile tinn, &c.
Isaiah i. 13 (last clause). — ... an trasg
agus la an toirmeisg.
Isaiah i. 17. — Leasaichibh an ni a ta air
a thruailleadh.
Isaiah i. 27. — A braighdean.
Isaiah i. 30. — Mar chiaoibh chuilinn.
Ho Asirianaich, slat mo chorruich — agus
am bata nan laimh 's e sin m'fhearg.
Oir tha gach uile chath an fhir chogaidh
le cruaidh iomairt, agus eudach air a
thumadh ann am fuil ; ach bithidh so le
losgadh, agus connadh air son an teine.
Taisbeanadh Isaiah mhic Amois, a chun-
naic e, &c.
G'ar son a bhuailear sibh mi 's mo? theid
sibh ni 's faide agus nis faide air seacharan.
Tha' ceann uile tinn, &c.
... is eu ceart eadhon an co-ghairm
naomha.
Deanaibh fuasgladh air an fhear tha
saruichte.
A muinntir iompaichte.
Mar dharaig.
The changes in Isaiah ii. are even more numerous ; but let us open the
book elsewhere —
Isaiah xli. 1. — Do 'm' ionnsuidhsa thig-
eadh ua cinnich iomallaoh le ur-ueart inn-
tiuu ; is atk nuadhaicheadh na sloigh an
neart. Thigeadh iad am fugus ; labhradh
iad ; tionnsgnamid ar tagradh cudromack
le cheile.
Bithibh 'n' ur tosd a' m' lathair, O
eileana, a£;us ath-nuadhaicheadh na sloigh
an neart ; thigeadh iad am fagus, an sin
labhradh iad ; dluthaickeamid r'a cheile
chum tagraidh,
194 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Those who compare Isaiah xxxviii. as rendered by Smith, Stewart, and
Dewar, respectively, and all the more if they are at home in the literature
of that remarkable " and very difficult chapter, will find therein much
food for reflection. In verses 12, 13, 14, and 16, Smith's translation
differs materially from the other two ; and he gets rid of the topical diffi-
culties of verses 21 and 22 by bodily transplanting them so as to stand,
the former between verses 8 and 9, and the latter between verses 6 and
7. Dewar deals with the same difficulty, practically to the same effect,
but by the simpler contrivance of treating as one long parenthesis the
whole passage from verse 7 to verse 20 inclusive, which, accordingly, he
encloses within brackets. Stewart's version stands in our Gaelic Bible
unchanged to this day. Even Clerk and Maclachlan let it alone.
If now the reader who has access to an Irish Bible will compare it
with even the meagre extracts here given, he cannot fail to observe
that, though Stewart had Smith's version before him, he yet goes back in
his choice of words and phrases to lean on the staff of Bedel rather than
take the arm of his countryman. How is this ? It comes not, we believe,
of chance. Nor is it all due to the instinctive sensibility with which a
man like Stewart, deeply imbued with the high evangelical views of
Simeon, would shrink from anything that to his mind savoured of
heterodoxj-, powerful as in his case such an influence must certainly have
been. We believe that all through the Eastern Highlands Kirke's Bible
had by this time rooted itself deeply in the religion of the people. Not,
as will be seen further on, that it was largely read by the people, but it
was read to them largely by catechists and exhorters — read to them especi-
ally in the regular ministrations of the " reader " on the Lord's-Day, Nay,
it was read often at firesides, sick-beds, and late- wakes, by readers, if one
may so speak, who could not themselves read, but who as listeners,
entranced by the reading of others, and often as they trod life's weary
way meditating what they heard read, had learned to recite from memory
large portions of the Scriptures. The peculiar phrases of Kirke's Bible,
all the more perhaps that their very peculiarity separated them by deeper
lines from the secular phrases of this mundane moil and from " the wicked
songs of their half-heathen sires," became thus embalmed in their memory
as the cherished symbols of the things of God and the soul and heaven —
the lingua sacra of their seasons of sweet communion, holy meditation,
and high angelic ecstasy. Well do we remember a remarkable instance
of this in the person of an aged relative who died forty years ago on the
banks of the Nairn, at the great age of 87. He could not read the Gaelic
Bible, or like the famous minister of Coll in Samuel Johnson's day, he
did not like it.* But he ever held family worship in Gaelic, with the
English Bible open before him ; and it seems now to us as if the strange,
old-world Gaelic he thus used to read were none other than Kirke's,
which he had learned in the way just described from the reading of
Alasdar Vaus or other like worthies of Strathnairn in the olden time.
* "Mention was made of the Erse translation of the New Testament, which has
lately been published, and of which the learned Mr Macqueen of Skye spoke with com-
mendation, but Mr Maclean said he did not use it because he could make the text more
intelligible to his auditors by an extemporaneous version." — Johnson's Journey in the
Highlands, by Macnicol, p, 187,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 195
Not many Sabbaths ago a similar instance flashed back upon us in the
pulpit like the light of other days. The text was 1 Kings xvii. 14,
" Cha chaithear an soitheach mine agus cha teirig an corn olaidh." But
in the swell and swing of rising thought this strange phrase ever more
rang out, "Ni 'n caithear barille na mine 's ni 'n teirig do chruisgin na
h-ola." Whence came the phrase ? Bedel being dead yet speaketh.
Those who in his words first found light and life unto their souls, spake
them to my relative, and the old man, dead these forty years, was now
speaking them again back to me. And here is something written in the
Society's minutes which looks not unlike a corroboration of the theory :
The General Assembly had ordained some years in advance that, as soon
as the Gaelic Bible of 1 807 was ready, none other should be used in the
public worship of God. But from the north-eastern -Synod there came to
the Assembly a strongly -Avorded overture praying the Assembly to rescind
this order. Why 1 What other Bible could they use but Kirke's 1 And
when they could not take the book to the pulpit they just rehearsed it
without the book, or their favourite portions of it, by the help of the
English Bible. This was, we believe the popular feeling in Stewart's
day all through the Eastern Highlands from Perth to Strathnaver.
Stewart himself, if he drank not of that feeling with his mother's milk,
yet spent his life in the focus of its influence. What wonder, then, if,
being human, though a prince among Gaelic scholars, he should on this
sacred ground lean back from the living, clear-cut, idiomatic, every-day
•Gaelic of Dr Smith to the lingua sacra of the people among whom he did
his life-work ?
DONALD MASSON, M.A., M.D.
BUSIED GAELIC SONGS.
o
IT is too commonly supposed that all the Gaelic poems which have been
printed are accessible to the reading public. Such is far from being the
case. The old collections of Gaelic poems are very scarce. It was with
great difficulty that I procured a copy of Ronald Macdonald's work. I
had to pay fifteen shillings for it. Gillies' work cannot be purchased at
all. I got my copy of the work, not for money, but by good luck. I
have the copy which belonged to the Rev. Dr Macgregor. I know of
only two copies of this collection on this side of the Atlantic ; Mr Camp-
bell, in his Leabhar na Feinne, says he knows of only thirteen copies in
the old country. Even Stewart's collection, Turner's collection, the
Inverness collections, and Macfarlane's collection, are scarce works.
Our late collections, such as Leabhar na Feinne, Sar-obair nam Bard,
and the Oranaiche, contain the greater number of the best poems in the
old collections, but they do not contain all the good poems in those works,
196 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Why should good poems lie buried in books which, cannot be obtained ?
Any person -who would collect and publish those poems in the old col-
lections which do not appear in the new collections, would be doing good
service in the cause of Gaelic literature, and also conferring a great favour
upon all readers of Gaelic, by giving them access to new fields of pleasure.
Eonald Macdonald's collection was published in the year 1776. It
contains 106 poem?. Of these 53 appear in Sar-obair nam Burd, 3 in
Menzies's collection, 2 in Munro's Adleagan, 1 in Leabhar na Feinne, 1
in. the Melodist, and 1 in Mac Mhaighstir Alastair's work. Of the re-
maining 45 poems- 1 cannot find any in our present collections. Four of
them are by Iain Dubh Mac Iain Mine Ailein, 2 by Iain Lorn, 2 by Iain
Mac Aileiu, 1 by Euairidh Mac Mhuirich, and 1 by Mairearad Nighean
Lachainn. Iain Dubh Mac Iain Mhic Ailein was a Macdonald ; Iain
Mac Ailein was /a Maclean.
Gillies' collection was published in 1786. It contains 117 poems.
Of these 22 are in Leabhar na Feinne, 20 in Sar-obair nam Bard, 3 in
Sinclair's Oranaiche, 1 in Menzies' collection, and 1 in Mackenzie's Jaco-
bite Songs. There are 61 poems in this collection which are not to be
found elsewhere. Three of these are by Iain Lorn.
A. & D. Stewart's collection was published in 1804. It contains 128
poems. Of these there are 34 in Sar-obair nam Bard, 9 in Leabhar na
Feinne, 9 in Menzies' collection, and 2 in Mackenzie's Jacobite Songs. Of
the remaining poems, 22 are by Rob Donn, and 13 by William Ross.
These, of course, are in the works of those poets. There are 39 poems
in this collection which do not appear elsewhere.
The first Inverness collection was published in tlie year 1806. It
contains 64 poems, all of which, except eleven, are in our present collec-
tions.
Turner's collection was published in 1813. It contains 122 poems.
Of these only 51 are to be found in our late collections. Of the 71 which
have not been reprinted, 3 are by Mairearad Nighean Lachainn, 8 by
Iain Lorn, 5 by Ailean Buidhe, 3 by Shaw, and 1 by Mairi Nighean
Alastair Ruaidh.
Patrick Macfarlane's collection was published in the year 1813. It
contains 45 poems. They are all, except six, in our present collections.
Two of the poems which have not been reprinted are by the Rev. Mr
Maclagan, and possess much merit.
The six collections I have examined contain 238 poems which are not
in the works which can be now purchased. A few of these poems are
doubtless Avorthless, and do not deserve to be reprinted. I do not think,
however, that there is even one utterly worthless poem either in Ronald
Macdonald's, Gillies', or Macfarlane's collection. I would like to see
everything in these very excellent works reprinted.
But could a collection containing those poems in the old collections
which do not appear in the new collections, be sold 1 I should think so.
Would not every person who reads Sar-obair nam Bard like to have it 1
For my own part I would gladly take ten copies of the work It could
be sold, I suppose, for about ten shillings a copy.
A. MACLEAN SINCLAIR.
PlCIOU, NOVA SCOIIA, January 22, 1879.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 19?
/iterate*.
0-
GENEALOGICAL TABLES OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE. By Major JAMES
D. MACKENZIE of Findon ; from the Author, or JOHN NOBLE, Inverness.
WE sometimes feel that the good old saying, that one can have too much
of a good thing, may, with no little force, be applied to the quantity of
matter appearing in the Celtic Magazine for the last seventeen months
about the Clan Mackenzie. While we sometimes felt this, we found our-
selves very much relieved by the fact that only one solitary voice reached
us daring the whole of that period with a complaint of the nature here
indicated. This may possibly be due more to the characteristic long-
suffering of our countrymen than to any merit or attractiveness which our
continued lucubrations possessed. At the same time we felt that the
reader would soon find out for himself that though those articles were
only designated a " History of the Clan Mackenzie," they were, in point
of fact, a great deal more — were, to a great extent, a history of the North
West Highlands of Scotland ; for it Avould be impossible, even were it
desirable, to write a history of any important clan without relating a
great deal concerning the others, and about many of the feuds and con-
tentions so long chronic north of the Grampians. If, even after these
preliminary remarks, any one be left who can yet find an excuse
for objecting to so much Mackenzie literature, we vouchsafe the informa-
tion, that it is our intention to give such an opportunity of retaliation.
We intend to continue the history of the various clans ; and, when we
have finished the Mackenzies, we shall present them, in their turn, with
a strong dose of Cameron or Macdonald, and so on, until we have given a
separate history of all the principal clans in the North. With this ex-
planation we proceed to notice briefly the valuable and laborious work
before us ; and we do so with the greater pleasure from its being the work
of two gentlemen of a class who generally prefer dignified ease or wild sport
to labour of this description. A gentleman in Findon's position would
never be induced to enter such a difficult field, unless he felt that he owed
a duty to his clan, and, especially, to the memory of his late brother, who
worked so hard for many years collecting materials among old MSS.,
sasines, deeds, in the Register House, and elsewhere, which, in conse-
quence of his sudden death, it was feared, would, never see the light.
Persons like ourselves have often to work in such fields from a double
motive — the necessity of securing a return for our labour perhaps being
sometimes as great an inducement as mere love for the work itself; and
this is why we feel specially grateful to Major Mackenzie for placing be-
fore the public, from purely patriotic motives, the valuable and extensive
materials collected by his late brother, with what additions he was him-
self able to make to them.
The work consists of thirteen large sheets of Tables, showing the
origin and descent of all the principal families of Mackenzie, and their
matrimonial connections with the other powerful houses throughout the
Highlands, such as the Earls of Boss, Macdougalls of Lorn, and other
198 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
distinguished families. The descent of the clan from the early Kings of
England, Scotland, and Man, is carefully traced. The traditional progenitor
of the clan, Colin Fitzgerald, of Ireland, is placed at the top of the tree, and
his ancestry traced back to the year 800, over many impossible heights,
and across wide and unbridgeable valleys of history and tradition — first to
Ireland, and then to the famous Gherardini of Florence. Onr own views,
supported by the best modern authorities, of this fabulous and misty
origin of the clan is already well known to the reader, and the only re-
ference to it with -which we shall burden this notice, is to remark that
we have, in our Introduction to the History of the Clan Mackenzie in
numbers xxv. and xxvi. of the Celtic Magazine, devoted more space to
the discussion of the origin of the clan and its founder than Major Mac-
kenzie has devoted in all his letter-press to the whole clan; and while we
think he said all that could be said for the Fitzgerald origin, and said it
well, we cannot avoid pointing out the error, or oversight, into which he
has fallen when he wrote the footnote on page 8 — on the face of it an
after-thought — and where he describes the writer of the History in the
Celtic Magazine as " begging the whole question," of the origin of the
clan, in the face of the fact, well known to the reader, that we devoted
about twenty pages of closely printed letter-press to the discussion of it.
Without this explanation, readers of Findon's pamphlet would naturally
assume that the question was never discussed by us at all. That assump-
tion would be incorrect; we discussed it fully, and to that discussion
we refer the reader. Poor Colin Fitzgerald is fast disappearing, for even
Findon has now reduced him to " the Colin of tradition." But we can-
not resist the temptation to quote the late editor of the Inverness Courier,
Robert Carruthers, LL.D., as a set-off against the views adopted by the
reviewer of the Tables in a recent issue of that paper. The Doctor says
— " This chivalrous and romantic (Fitzgerald) origin of the Clan Mac-
kenzie, though vouched for by certain charters and local histories, is now
believed to be fabulous. It seems to be first advanced in the seventeenth
century, when there was an absurd desire and ambition in Scotland to
fabricate and magnify all ancient and lordly pedigrees. Sir George Mac-
kenzie, the Lord Advocate, and Sir George Mackenzie of Tarbat, the first
Earl of Cromarty, were ready to swear to the descent of the Scots nation
from Gathelus, son of Cecrops, King of Athens, and Scota, his wife,
daughter of Pharoah, King of Egypt ; and, of course, they were no less
eager to claim a lofty and illustrious lineage for their own clan. But
authentic history is silent as to the two wandering Irish knights, and the
reported charters (the elder one being, palpably, erroneous) can nowhere
be found. For two centuries after the reigns of the Alexanders the district
of Kintail formed part of the lordship of the Isles, and was held ly the
Earls of Ross."
Major Mackenzie informs us that the materials from which the Tables
were made up were collected by his late brother, LeAvis Mark Mackenzie
of Findon, whose intention of connecting the whole in a history of the
clan was frustrated by his early death, and in order to save from the
wreck of time such details as remained, Findon drew out the tables as they
are now presented, and published them for the benefit of his clan and
countrymen, and by doing this he has earned, and we tmst is receiving,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 199
their gratitude in the only appropriate manner — purchasing the work.
To put the tables in their present shape Avas itself no light task,
and it would be found almost impossible to do even that, were the ma-
terials otherwise perfect, without committing errors. No doubt a few
such will be discovered, but they are trifling in comparison with the vast
mass of correct information given. Findon himself is sensible of not a
few faults, and modestly thinks that the arrangement could also be
improved. This is likely enough, but it is much easier to suggest im-
provements on a completed work than to prepare and finish it as this
one is finished, if the great difficulty is considered of tracing the rami-
fications of a hundred families for six hundred years, and of placing them
clearly in view. Possibly few people can appreciate these difficulties
more than we do, and, knowing them, it would be most ungenerous to
cavil at trifling errors that were, in the circumstances, unavoidable. The
amount of authentic information and detail given is simply marvellous,
and it is quite impossible that any one who takes an interest in Highland
family genealogies ca i be without a copy of Major Mackenzie's Tables.
The " History of the Clan Mackenzie," now passing through the press,
by the writer of this article, is, in its scope and aims, quite a different
work to Findon's, while it also will contain complete genealogies of all
the principal families of Mackenzie. Its general character may be seen
from the following reference to it by Major Mackenzie : — " It was the
intention of my brother also to write a complete history of the clan and
its branches, but as this portion of his design is actually being executed
in a highly interesting work now publishing at Inverness, I have not
deemed it necessary myself to add much letter-press to the tables, believ-
ing that authentic and full information will be given in that work re-
garding the origin and the possessions of the various families." This
paragraph illustrates, by no means too favourably, the kindly spirit
which Major Mackenzie exhibited towards our labours from the beginning;
and it is only right to say that he never hesitated to give us any informa-
tion in his power on any obscure point on which we had occasion to con-
sult him, while he, in the most courteous manner, sent us for perusal all
the Mackenzie MSS. histories in his possession.
EEAL HIGHLAND HONOUES.— Cluny Macpherson of Clnny
ought to be, if he is not, the proudest man in the Highlands. We do not
know any other at this moment who occupies such a proud and honourable
position. While he is himself Colonel of the Inverness-shire Rifle
Volunteers, his eldest son and heir, Lieutenant-Colonel Duncan Macpher-
son, is in command of the 42d Eoyal Highlanders, or Black Watch, and
his second son, Lieutenant-Colonel Ewen Macpherson, commands the 93d
Sutherland Highlanders — two of the finest regiments in the world. Long
live Cluny and his gallant sons I
Another Highland Chief, one of the good old sort of whom we often
read, but now seldom see, Duncan Davidson of Tulloch, has been appointed
by Her Majesty Lord-Lieutenant of the County of Eoss, a real and well-
merited honour. Gu ma fada beo an Sar Ghaidliecd.
200
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
ORAN DO SHIR COINNEACH GHEARRLOCH.
With Spirit.
Gn'm bu slan do dheadh Shir Coinneach, Sheas e 'choinneamh mar a b' abhaist,
Long life and health to good Sir Kenneth, Who graced our festival as usual,
N-frT7?
z*=i
Cridheil, uasal, eolach, cliuteach, Mar cheann-iuil do Chlann nan Gaidheal.
Cheerful, noble, learned, honoured, Worthy guide to Claim na Gaidheal.
KEY D.
|m.s : 1 ., r | t ., s : 1 . r | m . s :l.rjt,s : m ., d
I r . r : m . m I s ., s : r1 ., r1 | 1 . d1 : s ., d1 1 s ., m : r ., r II
Ochd ceucl deug, naoi deug 's tri Behead,
Sin a bhliadhua 's math leinn aireamh,
Fhuair sinn urram bho Shir Coinneach.
'N gaisgeaeh tapaidh 's Triath air < ! earrloch.
Gu'm bu slan, &c.
luchair-ghliocais an taobh tuatha,
Gu'm a buan an t-urram dhasa,
Ceann na ceille, steidh nam buadhan —
Deadh Shir Coinneach uasal Ghearrloch.
Gu'm liu slan, &c.
Cha'n eil goill aige dha 'n arach,
'S iad na Gaidheil fliein bu chinntich,
Sheas iad cruadalach ro dhileas
Le craobh-shinnsridh Oighre Ghearrloch.
(Ju'in bu slan, &c.
Tha gach tighearn' is duin' uasal,
'S an taobh tuath gu leir ag ratainn,
Nach eil uachdaran cho buadhach
Ri Sir Coinneach uasal Ghearrloch.
Gu'm bu slan, &c.
Tha gach oganach 's gach buachaill,
Tha gach tuathanach 's gach armunn,
Deas gu eiridh, ealamh, uallach,
Mar bu dual do mhuinntir Ghearrloch.
Gu'm bu slan, &c.
"S mairg a dhuisgeadh aim 's an uair sin
Aobhar gruaim no culaidh thaire ;
'S grad a chlosaichte gach fuathas
Le "Clann Karhaiim Ruaidh a Gearrloch.
Gu'm bu slan, &c.
Fhad sa ruitheas uisg a fuaran,
Fhad sa ghluaiseas tonn air saije,
Gus an tfaigh na h-eoin na cuaintean,
Gu'n robh buaidh air teaghlach Ghearrloch.
Gu'm bu slan, &c.
The year we love to mind and cherish
Is eighteen hundred and seventy -nine,
When we were honoured by the presence
of Sir Kenneth, Chief of Gairloch.
Long life and health, &c.
In the North he's Wisdom's key,
Long that honour be his portion,
Sauarious head and source of virtue.
Good Sir Kenneth, pride of Gairloch.
Long life and health, &c.
He keeps no Lowlanders to foster,
Native Celts he finds more faithful,
Always standing brave and trusty
Round th" ancestral-tree of Gairloch.
Long life and health, &c.
It's maintained by all the gentry,
And the chiefs throughout the Highlands,
There's not a laird with all the virtues
Of Sir Kenneth, laird of Gairloch.
Long life and health, <fec.
From the farmer to the shepherd,
From the stripling to the hem,
All are willing, swift, and ready,
As of yore, to rise with Gairloch.
Long life and health, &c.
Woe to him who roused at that time
Ghost of shamefulness or anger,
Quick subdued would be the spectre
By Clann Eachainn Ruaidh of Gairloch.
Long life and health, &c.
Long as water flows from fountain,
Long as billows roll on ocean,
Till the birds the sea drink empty,
Let virtue grace the House of Gairloch.
Long life and health, Ac.
NOTE. — The above song, in praise of Sir Kenneth S. Mackenzie of Gairloch, Bart., was com-
posed by Mr Colin Chisholm, Inverness, and sung by him at the late dinner of the Gaelic Society,
amidst unbounded enthusiasm. The air is a spirited one, and is well known in the West Hi,i;ii-
|inds. For the benefit of the Knglish reader a literal translation, by the Editor, is given.
W. M'K.
THE
CELTIC MAGAZINE.
No. XLIF. APRIL, 1879. VOL. IV.
HISTORY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE.
BY THE EDITOR.
[CONTINUED. |
THE CHIEFSHIP.
IT would have been seen that the male line of Colonel Alexander Mac-
kenzie of Assynt became extinct on the death of Francis Huinberston
Mackenzie, the last Lord Seaforth, who died in 1815, surviving all his
male issue. It will also be remembered that the male line of George,
second Earl of Seaforth, who died in 1G51, terminated in Kenneth, nine-
teenth Baron of Kintail, whose only issue was Caroline, married to Count
Melfort. It was previously shown that the lineal descent of the original
line of Kintail was directed from heirs male in the person of Anna,
Countess of Balcarres, daughter of Colin, first Earl of Seaforth ; and the
male line of Colonel Alexander Mackenzie of Assynt having terminated
in " the Last of the Seaforths," we must again carry the reader back to a
collateral branch to pick up the legitimate succession, and, as far as
possible, settle the question of the present Chiefship of the Clan.
Various gentlemen have been and are claiming this highly honourable
position, and this is not to be wondered at, when it is kept in mind that
whoever establishes his right thereto, establishes at the same time his
right to the ancient honours of the House of Kintail. It has been already
pointed out elsewhere that the original title of Lord Mackenzie of Kintail
did not come under the attainder which followed on the part which Earl
William took in the Rising of 1715, and it follows that the present Chief
of the Maekenzies in virtue of that position, as heir male of the first Lord
Mackenzie of Kintail, is entitled to assume that title ; and it therefore
becomes a very important duty in a work like this, to make the ques-
tion as clear as possible and finally dispose of it once and for all.
We have before tis the claim and pedigree of a Captain Murdoch
Mackenzie, " of London," who claimed " the titles, honours, and dignities
of Earl of Seaforth and Baron Mackenzie of Kintail," in virtue of the
claimant's pretended descent from the Honourable John Mackenzie of
Assynt, second son of Kenneth, third Earl of Seaforth. According to
this pedigree the Honourable John Mackenzie had a son, "Murdoch
Mackenzie of Lochbroom, who, having shown a disposition of enterpris3
R
202 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
like his kinsman Earl "William, left his native parish in 1729 or 1730,
first for Aberdeen and afterwards for Northumberland, where, in conse-
quence of the unsettled state of Scotland, he resided with his family."
Murdoch had a son, John Mackenzie, " born, in Beadnall, Parish of Barn-
borough, County Northumberland in 1738, married Miss Isabella David-
son in 1762, and died in 1780, in his forty-second year." This John
had a son, " Captain Murdoch Mackenzie, the claimant, born at Beadnall,
County of Northumberland, 1763, married 1781, Miss Eleanor Brown,
of the same place, and has issue. He commanded the ship, Essex, trans-
port, 81, of London, during the late war (1815). Being desirous to see
his clan in the North, in 1790 he visited the late Francis Lord Seaforth,
who, in the true spirit of Scotch sincerity, hospitality, and nobility, re-
ceived him with demonstrations of pleasure. After talking over family
matters, his Lordship candidly said that Captain Murdoch ought to have
been the peer in point of primogeniture." A short account of the family
accompanies the pedigree, which concludes thus : — " In consequence of
the death of the last peer it has been discovered in Scotland that the
titles and family estates have devolved upon Captain Murdoch Mackenzie,
of London. This gentleman is naturally anxious to establish his rights,
but being unable to prosecute so important a claim without the aid of
sufficient funds, he has been advised to solicit the aid of some individuals
whoso public spirit and liberal feelings may prompt them to assist him on
the principle that such timely assistance and support will be gratefully
and liberally rewarded. Captain Mackenzie hereby offers to give his
bond for £300 (or more if required) for every £100 that may be lent
him to prosecute his claim — the same to become due and payable within
three months after he shall have recovered his title and estates." It will
appear from the last clause that Captain Murdoch was a most cautious
man. We have not learnt the result of this appeal, but Captain Mur-
doch Mackenzie certainly did not establish his claim either to the titles
or to the estates of the last Lord Seaforth.
It is, however, placed beyond doubt by the evidence produced at the
Allangrange Service in 1829, that Kenneth, not Murdoch, was the name
of the eldest son of the Honourable John Mackenzie of Assynt, and there
is no trace of his having had any other sons. By an original Precept
issued by the Provost and Magistrates of Fortrose, dated 30th October
1716, the son of the late John Mackenzie of Assynt is described as
" Kenneth Mackenzie, now of Assynt, grandchild and apparent heir to
the deceased Isobell, Countess Dowager of Seaforth, his grandmother on
the father's side." In the same document he is described as her " nearest
and lawful heir." It will thus appear that Captain Murdoch Mackenzie's
genealogy is incorrect at the very outset, and if further proof be wanted
that the descendants of John Mackenzie of Assynt are extinct, it will be
found in the fact that the succession to the representation and honours of
the family of Seaforth devolved on the male issue of Colonel Alexander
of Assynt and Conansbay — a younger sou, and in the parole evidence
given by very old people at the Allangrange Service.
The claim of Captain Murdoch Mackenzie having failed, we must go
back another step in the chain to pick up the legitimate succession to the
honours of Kintail, and here we are met by another claim, put forward
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 203
by the late Captain "William Mackenzie of Gruinard, in the folio Aving
letter : —
"11 Margaret Street, Cavendish Square,
" London, 24th October 1 829.
" My dear Allangrange, — Having observed in the Courier of the 21st
inst., at a meeting at Tain, that you were proceeding with the Seaforth
Claims, I take the earliest opportunity of communicating to you a cir-
cumstance which I am sure my agent, Mr Eoy, would have informed you
of sooner, did he know that you were proceeding in this affair; and
which, I think probable, he has done ere this ; but lest it might have
escaped his notice, I deem it proper to acquaint you that on Mr Eoy
having discovered, by authenticated documents, that I was the lineal
descendant of George, Earl of Seaforth, he authorised an English counsellor
to make application to the Secretary of State to that effect, who made a
reference to the Court of Exchequer in Scotland to examine the evidence
— Mr Roy having satisfied them with having all which he required to
establish my claim. I therefore am inclined to address you in order that
you may be saved the trouble and expense attending this affair. Indeed,
had I known you were taking any steps in this business, be assured I
would have written to you sooner.
" I had not the pleasure of communicating with you since your mar-
riage, upon which event I beg leave to congratulate you, and hope I shall
soon have the pleasure of learning of your adding a member to the Clan
Kenneth. — Believe me, my dear Mac, yours most sincerely,
"(Signed) WM. MACKENZIE.
" George F. Mackenzie of Allangrange,
by Munlochy, Eoss-shire."
The Gruinard claim is founded on a Genealogical Tree in possession of
the representatives of the Family, by which John, first of Gruinard, is
made out to be the son of George of Kildun, second son of George, second
Earl of Seaforth. It is generally believed among the clan that the de-
scendants of this George, who was the second George of Kildun, are long
ago extinct ; but whether this be so or not, it can be conclusively shown,
by reference to dates, that John, first of Gruinard, could not possibly have
been his son. And to the conclusive evidence of dates may fairly be
added the testimony of all the Mackenzie MSS. which we have perused,
and which make any reference to John of Gruinard. In every single
instance where he is mentioned, he is described as a natural son of
George second Earl of Seaforth. Before he succeeded Earl George was
known as (first) George of Kildun, hence the confusion and the error in
the Gruinard^Genealogical Tree. The "Ancient" MS. so often referred to in
this work, and the author of which must have been a contemporary of
John, first of Gruinard, says, that Earl George " had also am naturall son,
called John Mackenzy, Avho married Loggie's daughter." The author of
the Ardintoul MS., who was the grandson, as mentioned by himself, of
Farquhar Macrae, Constable of Islandonain Castle in Earl Colin's time,
and consequently almost, if not contemporary with John of Gruinard, de-
scribing the effects of the disastrous battle of Worcester, informs us that
Earl George, who was then in Holland, was informed of the result of the
battle " by John of Gruinard, his natural son, and Captain Hector Mac-
204 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
kenzie, who made their escape from the battle," and that the tidings
" unraised his melancholy, and so died in the latter end of September
1651." The Letterfearn MS. is also contemporary, as the author of
it speaks of Earl Kenneth as "now Earl of Seaforth," and of Kiklun, in
the present tense, while he speaks of his father in the past, and says, " He
(Earl George) left ane natural son, who is called John, who is married
with Loggie's daughter."
It may be objected, however probable it may appear that these MSS.
are correct, that they are not authentic. We have before us, how-
ever, a certified copy of a sasine, dated 6th day of February 1658, from
the Part. Eeg. Sasines of Inverness, vol. 7, fol. 316, from which we quote
as follows : — " Compearit personally John M'Kenzie naturall broyr to
ane noble Erie Kenneth Erie of Seaforth Lord of Kintail, &c., as bailzie in
that part," on behalf of " the noble Lady Dame Isabell M'Kenzie Countess
of Seaforth, sister german to Sir George Mackenzie of Tarbet, Knight,
future ladie to the said noble Erie." There is still another document
having a most important bearing on this question, recently discovered
in the office of the Sheriff Clerk of Tain. It is a discharge by
Patrick Smith of Bracco to Lord Seafort and his Cautioner, John
Mackenzie of Gruinard, dated and registered in the Commissar Books
at Fortrose, on the 4th December 1668. In this document Patrick
Smith states that " Kenneth, Earl of Seafort, Lord Kintail, as principal,
and John Mackenzie of Gruinyard, designit in the obligatione vnder-
wrytten his naturall brother as cautioner " by their band of 22 January
1656, band them to pay to him (the said Patrick), 6000 merks Scots,
which band is registered in the Books of Council and Session, and ane
decreet of -the Lords thereof interponit thereto upon the 25 July 1665
by virtue of which he raisit letters of horning against them, and had the
said John denuncit a rebel and at the home, and thereupon obtained the
gift of his escheit and life-rent ; and that the said noble Earl, for relief of
himself and his Cautioner, had made payment of the said 6000 merks,
&c., for which said Patrick discharges them of the band, and resigns to
the said John the gift of the escheit," the discharge being subscribed and
registered, as already stated, at Fortrose, on the 4th December 1668,
witnessed by Alex. Mackenzie " of Adross " (? Ardross), and written by
Alexander Davidson, " writer in Fortrose." Further, George of Kildun
married, first, Mary Skene, daughter of Skene of Skene, in 1661, as will
be seen by a charter to her of her jointure lands of Kincardine, &c. (see
Part. Keg. Sas. Invss.. vol. ix., fol. 9). He married, secondly, Margaret,
daughter of Urquhart of Craighouse. It will at once occur to the reader
how absolutely impossible it was that George of Kildun, who only married
his first wife in 1661, could have had a son, John of Gruinard, who
obtained a charter in his favour of the lands of Little Gruinard, &c., in
1669, and who is, in that charter, designated " of Meikle Gruinard," while
John of Gruinard's wife has lands disponed to her in 1655, i.e., six years
before the marriage of his reputed father George of Kildun ? Further,
how could John of Gruinard's second son, Kenneth, have married, as he
did, the widow of Kenneth " Og," fourth Earl, who died in 1701, if John,
his father, had been the son by a second marriage of " George of Kildin,"
who married his first wife in 1661 ? This is absolutely conclusive.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 205
Kenneth, third Earl of Seaforth, according to the Gruinard gene-
alogy John of Gruinard's uncle, Avas Lorn at Brahau Castle in 1635.
He is described as "a child" in 1651 by a contemporary writer, who
informs us that the Kintail people declined to rise with him in that year
during his father's absence on the Continent, "because he was but a
child, and his father, their master, was in life." Colin, first Earl of Sea-
forth, died in 1G33, and, the author of the Ancient MS. informs us that
" Earl George, being then the Laird of Kildun, married before his
brother's death, the Lord Forbcs's daughter." Thus, George of Kildun
could not have been born before 1636 or 1637 — and the date of his
first marriage, twenty-four years later, tends to corroborate this. How then
could he have a married son, John of Gruinard, whose wife obtained lands
in 1655, i.e., when Kilduu himself was only about 18 years of age, and
when John, then designated of Gruinard, was, in 1656, old enough to be
cautioner for Earl Kenneth? Proof of the same conclusive character could
be adduced, to any extent, but, in the face of the authentic documents
already quoted, it appears qiiite superfluous to do so.
John first of Gruinard could not possibly have been a son of the second
George Mackenzie of Kildun. He was undoubtedly the natural son of
the first George who succeeded his brother Colin, as second Earl of
Seaforth, and it necessarily follows that the representatives of John
of Gruinard have no claim whatever to the Chiefship of the Clan
or to the ancient honours of the family of Kintail. But the claim
having been made it was impossible, in a work like this, to pass it over,
though we would have much preferred that the question had never "been
raised.
ALLANGRANGE LINE.
HAVING thus disposed of the Gruinard claim, and the legitimate represen-
tation of the later Peers in the male line having become extinct, to pick
up the chain of the ancient House of Kintail, we must revert to Kenneth
first Lord Mackenzie of Kiutail. It will be remembered that Kenneth
had seven sons, three by the first and four by his second marriage, namely,
by Anne Ecss of Balnagowan, (1), Colin, his successor; (2), John of Loch-
linn, who left an only daughter Margaret ; and (3), Kenneth, who died
unmarried. By his second wife, Isabel, daughter of Gilbert Ogilvie of
Powrie, he had (4), Alexander, who died young; (5), George, who succeeded
his brother Colin as second Earl of Seaforth, and whose line terminated
in Lady Caroline ; (6), Thomas of Pluscardine, whose male line is
also extinct, and represented in the female line by Arthur Robertson now
of Inshes, Inverness ; and (7), Simon, after the death of his brother
designated of Lochslinn, and whose representative has become and now
is the male heir of the ancient family of Kintail, and Chief of the Clan
Mackenzie.
SIMON MACKENZIE OF LOCHSLINN married, first, Elizabeth, daughter of
the Rev. Peter Bruce, D.D., Principal of St Leonard's College, St Andrews,
son of Bruce of Fingask, by Elizabeth, daughter of Alexander Wedder-
burn of Blackness. By her he had five sons and one daughter. The
first son was the famous Sir George Mackenzie of Rosehaugh, Lord Advo-
cate. His history is well known, and it would serve no good purpose to
give a meagre account of him such as could be done in the space at our
206 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE,
disposal. He wrote various works of acknowledged literary merit, and
his " Institutes" is yet considered a standard work by lawyers, lie left
an autobiography in MS., published in Edinburgh by his widow in 1716.
The small estate of Eosehaugh, where his residence lay, was in his time
profusely covered over with the shrub known as the Dog Rose, which
suggested to the famous lawyer the idea of designating that property by
the name of " Vallis Eosaruni," hence Eosehaugh.
Sir George married, first, Elizabeth, daughter of John Dickson of
Hartree, and by her had three sons — John, Simon, and George, all of
whom died young, and two daughters — Agnes, who married James Stuart
Mackenzie, first Earl of Bute,* and Elizabeth, who married, first, Sir
Archibald Cockburn of Langton, with issue, and, secondly, the Honour-
able Sir James Mackenzie of Eoyston, Bart., with issue — George, who
died without succession, and two daughters, married, with issue. Sir
George married, secondly, Margaret, daxighter of — Halliburton of Pitcur,
by whom he had two sons and two daughters, all of whom died without
issue except George, who succeeded his father as second of Eosehaugh,
married, and had an only daughter who died without issue. It will
thus be seen that the male line of Sir George Mackenzie of Eosehaugh
also became extinct.
SIMON MACKENZIE, second son of the Honourable Simon of Loch-
slinn, married Jane, daughter of Alexander Mackenzie, first of Ballone,
brother to Sir John Mackenzie of Tarbat, and uncle to George, first Earl
of Cromarty. The marriage contract is dated 1663. Simon died at
Lochbroom in the following year, and left an only and posthumous son,
I. SIMON MACKENZIE, first of Allangrange, an advocate at the
Scottish Bar. The property of Allangrange was acquired in the follow-
ing way: — Alexander Mackenzie, first of Kilcoy, who was third son of
Colin Cam, eleventh Baron of Kintail, had four sons, of whom the young-
est, Eoderick, obtained the lands of Kilmuir, in the Black Isle, and be-
coming a successful lawyer, Sheriff Depute Uhd Member of Parliament,
and was knighted by Charles II. Sir Eoderick Mackenzie, then of Fin-
don, acquired by the purchase of several properties, a very considerable
estate, which, at his death in 1692, and on that of his only son the fol-
lowing year, were divided among his daughters, as heirs-portioners. The
third of these daughters, Isobel, married (August 22, 1693) Simon Mac-
kenzie, the Advocate, and brought him as her portion the Estate of
ALLAN, formerly the property and residence of Seaforth, and which was
thenceforth called by the name of Allangrange. By her he had issue (1),
Eoderick, who died before his father, unmarried ; (2), George, who suc-
ceeded ; (3), Kenneth ; (4), "William, a captain in the Dutch army, mar-
ried, issue extinct ; and (5), Simon, died in the West Indies, without
issue.
Simon of Allangrange had also four daughters — Lilias, died unmarried ;
Elizabeth, married, in 1745, John Matheson of Fernaig ; Eliza, married
Ludovic, son of Eoderick Mackenzie, fifth of Eedcastle ; and Isobel,
married Murdo Cameron at Allangrange, with issue.
* For the (iucceision, see Eetours of Jamei, Marquis of But*, 1721,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 207
He married, secondly, on the 28th August 1718, Susanna Eraser,
daughter of Colonel Alexander Eraser of Kinneries, known as the
"Coroner"; male issue extinct. He was drowned in the river Orrin,
returning from a visit to Fairburn, in February 1730, and was succeeded
by his eldest surviving son,
II. GEORGE MACKENZIE, who, in May 1731, married Margaret, grand-
daughter* of Sir Donald Bayne of Tulloch. The male representation of
the Baynes terminated in John, and his daughter, Margaret, carried
the lineal descent of that old and respectable family into the house of
Allangrange. The Baynes were not originally a Eoss-shire family, but a
branch of the Clan Mackay which settled in the vicinity of Dingwall in
the sixteenth century. By Margaret Bayne George had issue, five sons,
(1), Simon, who died young in 1731 ; (2), William, who became a Captain
in the 25th Eegiment, died unmarried, in 1764; (3), George, died young ;
(4), Alexander, died unmarried, in 1765 ; and (5), John, who succeeded his
father. He also had several daughters, (1), Margaret, who married, as his
second wife, Alexander Chisholm of Chisholm, and by him had issue, his
successor, William Chisholm of Chisholm, who, in 1795, married Eliza,
daughter of D. Macdonell of Glengarry, and by her had Alexander
William Chisholm of Chisholm, M.P,, who died, unmarried, in 1838;
and Duncan Macdonell Chisholm, who succeeded his brother as Chisholm.
of Chisholm, and, in 1859, died unmarried ; also Jemima Chisholm, who
married Edmund Batten, with issue; (2), Isobel, who married, in 1767,
Simon Mackenzie of Langwell, a Captain in the 4th Eegiment, with issue.
George had six other (laughters, all of whom died young or unmarried.
He died in J 733, and was succeeded by his eldest surviving son,
III. JOHN MACKENZIE, at an early age appointed Examiner of Cus-
toms in Edinburgh. He married, first, in 1781, Catherine Falconer,
eldest daughter and co-heiress of James Falconer of Monkton, and grand-
daughter of the Eight Honourable Lord Halkerton and the Honourable
Jane Falconer. By the acquisition of this lady's fortune Allangrange was
able to devote himself to agricultural pursuits, for which he had a strong
prediliction, and in which he was eminently successful. His wife died in
1790. By her he had issue, (1), George Falconer, who succeeded him ; (2),
Jane Falconer, who married John Gillanders of Highfield, with issue;
and two other daughters, both named Margaret Bayne, who died young.
He married, secondly, Barbara, daughter of George Gillanders first of
Highfield, relict of John Bowman, an East India merchant in London,
without issue. He died in 1812, and was succeeded by his only son,
IV. GEORGE FALCONER MACKENZIE, who was, in 1829, served male
heir to his ancestor, the Honourable Simon Mackenzie of Lochslinn, and
heir male in general to Simon's father, Kenneth, first Lord Mackenzie of
Kintail, as also to Lord Kenneth's brother, Colin, first Earl of Seaforth.t
* See Marriage Contract, Allangrange Charter Chest.
t The following gentlemen composed the jury in the Allangrange Service:— Sir
James Wemyss Mackenzie of Scatvrell, Bart., M.P. ; Sir Francis Alexander Mackenzie
of Gairloch, Bart. ; Coli* Mackenzie of Kilcoy, advocate ; William Mackenzie of Muir-
ton, W.S. ; Alexander Mackenzie of Millbank ; Hugh Ross «f Glastullich ; Aleiauder
Mackenzie of Woodside ; Simon Mackenzie-Kosg, younger of Aldie ; Hugh James
Cameron, banker, Dingwall ; Alexander Gair, banker, Tain ; John Mackenzie, David
ROM, Hugh Leslie, William Fraser, and Donald Stewart, the last five, writers in Tain.
208 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
He matriculated his arms accordingly in the Public Register of the Lyon
Office of Scotland, and on the 9th of January 1828, married Isabella Reid
Fowler, daughter of James Fowler of Eaddery and Fail-burn, in the
County of Ross, and Grange in Jamaica, and by her had issue, (1), John
Falconer, who succeeded him; (2), James Fowler, now of Allangrange ; (3),
George Thomas, married Ethel Newman in London ; (4), Sophia Catharine,
died young ; and (5), Anna Watson. He died in 1841, and was succeeded
by his eldest son,
V. JOHN FALCONER MACKENZIE, Avho died, unmarried, in 1849, and
•was succeeded by his next brother,
VI. JAMES FOWLER MACKENZIE, now of Allangrange, Chief of the
Mackenzies, and heir male to the dormant honours of the ancient family
of Kintail and Seaforth. He is yet, 1879, unmarried.
The Honourable Simon Mackenzie of Lochslinn had three other
sons by the first marriage — Thomas, first of Logic ; John, first of Inch-
coulter, or Balcony ; and Colin, Clerk to the Privy Council and Com-
missioner in Edinburgh. Issue of all three extinct.*
THE OLD MACKENZIES OF DUNDONNELL.
THE Honourable Simon Mackenzie of Lochslinn, fourth son of Kenneth,
first Lord Mackenzie of Kintail, married, secondly, in 1650, Agnes,
daughter of William Fraser of Culbokie, relict of Alexander Mackenzie
of Ballone, brother of Sir John Mackenzie of Tarbat. Failing the line
of Allangrange, all the male issue of the Honourable Simon Mackenzie
by his first marriage will have become extinct, when the Chiefship must
be looked for among the descendants of his second marriage with Agnes
Fraser, as above.
By this marriage the Honourable Simon Mackenzie had issue, Ken-
neth Mor, who became first of Glenmarksie and Dundonnell, and two
daughters. The eldest daughter, Isobel, married Murdoch Mackenzie,
sixth of Fail-burn, with issue ; and the other, Elizabeth, married the Rev.
Roderick Mackenzie, laird and minister of Avoch, grandson of Sir
Roderick Mackenzie, Tutor of Kintail, with issue — John, second of Avoch,
forfeited for having taken part in the Rising of 1715 ; several other
sons, all of whom, except Roderick, predeceased their father, and four
daughters; (1), Christian, married Sir Kenneth Mackenzie of Scatwell;
(2), Isobel, married Alexander Matheson of Bennetsfield ; (3), Margaret,
married John Macrae of Dornie ; and (4), Anne who married the Rev.
Lewis Grant.
I. KENNETH MOR MACKENZIE had the lands of Glenmarksie, and, in
1690, acquired the lands of Dundonnell from the Mackenzies of Redcastle.
He afterwards acquired the lands of Meikle Scatwell, of which he had a
Sasine, in 1693. He married Annabella, daughter of John Mackenzie first
of Gruinard, by whom he had issue (1), Kenneth, his heir ; (2), Alexander,
of whom nothing can be traced ; (3), Colin Riabhach of Ardinglash, who
married Annabella, daughter of Simon Mackenzie of Logie, issue extinct;
(4), Simon, of whom nothing is known ; (5), Barbara, who married Alex-
ander second of Ballone, with issue; (6), Sibella, who married John
* See FiucUm's Genealogical Tables and the Allangraage Service,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 209
Mackenzie second of Ardloch, with issue; and (7), Annabella, who married
James Mackenzie of Keppoch, in Lochbroom, brother of Ardloch, with
issue. Kenneth Mor was succeeded by his eldest son,
II. KENNETH MACKENZIE, second of Dundonnell, Avho married Jean,
daughter of the Chisholm of Chisholm, by whom he had (1), Kenneth, his
heir ; (2), Alexander, a Captain in the 73d Eegiment, who died in 1783 ;
and (3), John, who married Barbara, daughter of Mackenzie of Ardloch,
with issue, several sons, who died young, and two daughters, one of
whom married Alexander Mackenzie of Eiabhachan, Kishorn, with issue.
He was succeeded by his eldest son,
III. KENNETH MACKENZIE, who married, in 1737, Jean, daughter of
Sir Kenneth Mackenzie, first Baronet of Scatwell, by whom he had (1),
George, his successor; (2), Kenneth, a W.S.,died in 1790 ; (3), William, an
Episcopalian Minister, with issue; (4), Eoderick, with issue; (5), Alex-
ander, a Captain in the army, who died in India, without issue ; (6), Simon,
a Captain, who married, and died in Nairn in 1812 ; and (7), Lewis, also
a Captain, who died in India. A daughter, Janet, married, in Jamaica,
Colin Mackenzie, brother to George Mackenzie of Kildonan, Lochbroom.
She died in 1783. Another daughter, Isabe.Ua, died unmarried. Ken-
neth's wife died in 178G. He died in 1789, and was succeeded by his
eldest son,
IV. GEORGE MACKENZIE, who married Abigail, daughter of Thomas
Mackenzie, fifth of Ord, by whom he had (1), Alexander, who died young ;
(2), Kenneth, who succeeded his father ; (3), Thomas, who succeeded his
brother Kenneth ; and (4), Jane, who married the Rev. Dr Eoss, min-
ister of Lochbroom, with issue. George was succeeded by his eldest
surviving son,
V. KENNETH MACKENZIE, who, in 1817, married Isabella, daughter
of Donald Roy of Preeton, without issue. He left the estates to his
brother-in-law, Robert Roy, W.S., who lost it after a long and costly
litigation with
VI. THOMAS MACKENZIE, second surviving son of George, fourth of
Dundonnell, and next brother of Kenneth. The estate was ruined
by law expenses, and had to be sold. It was purchased by Murdo
Munro-Mackenzie of Ardross, grandfather to the present proprietor,
Murdo Mackenzie of Dundonnell. (See Mackenzies of Ardross.)
Thomas Mackenzie, sixth and last of the old Mackenzies of Dun-
donnell, married Anne, eldest daughter of Alexander Mackenzie, sixth of
Ord, and by her had issue — (1), George Alexander, born in Ceylon, 10th
July 1818, and married Louisa, daughter of Captain Stewart, Ceylon Rifles,
without issue ; (2), Thomas, who went to California, and of whom no
trace ; (3), John Hope, now residing at Tarradale, Ross-shire, married, in
Ceylon, Louisa, daughter of Captain Stewart, and relict of his deceased
brother, George Alexander, without issue ; (4), a daughter, Helen, married
the Honourable Justice Charles Stewart, in Ceylon, without issue j and
(5), Isabella, who resides in Elgin, unmarried.
210 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
OUE GAELIC BIBLE.
IV.
COULD THE HIGHLANDERS OF 1807 READ IT?
" THE late publication of the Bible, in Gaelic, in a portable form, and at a
very moderate price, and which those who cannot afford to purchase, may
procure for nothing, has led many to inquire if the natives of the High-
lands and Islands are very generally capable of making use of it." Such was
the opening sentence of the first circular letter issued, on 27th December
1810, by the committee of the promoters of the Gaelic School Society.
Before proceeding further with our history of the Gaelic Bible, and of the
process of change and growth, so to speak, by which it reached its present
form, it will be well to turn aside for a moment, and repeat the same in-
quiry. As we saw last month, no fewer than 40,000 copies of the Gaelic
Scriptures were printed in 1807 for the use of the Scottish Gael ; 20,000
by the Society in Scotland for Propagating Christian Knowledge, who,
with much labour and expense, had prepared the translation ; and 20,000
by the British and Foreign Bible Society in London, who, as regards the
cares and expense of translation, may almost be said to have entered into
the labours of the sister Society.
But to what extent could it be said that the people for whose use this
good work had been executed were sufficiently educated, especially in the
reading of Gaelic, to profit by the inestimable boon ?
Our search for the materials of an accurate reply to that question has
been productive of more than the needful information. It has brought to
our knowledge a vast mass of material, illustrative of the educational con-
dition of the Highlands from 1600 down to the early years of the present
century, on which we offer no apology for making much larger drafts
than a bare answer to the question just asked would either require or
permit. Indeed it may be well to state at once that this paper deals but
remotely with the " Gaelic Bible," and mainly concerns itself with the
general subject of
EARLY EDUCATION IN THE HIGHLANDS.
Before the Eeformation it does not appear that in Scotland the educa-
tion of the common people was ever, in any sense, a matter of State con"
cern. But from early times the importance to the nation of an educated
ruling class did not escape recognition. Thus it happened that as early as
1496 it was enacted that all barons and freeholders, under a penalty of
£20, should put their eldest sons to school till they were competently
grounded in Latin, after which they were obliged to study law for three
years.
The General Assembly of 1597 gave to the state of the Highlands
and Islands an amount of enlightened consideration from which great
results might have been expected, were it not for the miserable embroglio
of folly and wrongdoing with which James VI. compensated his native
land for his corporeal absence in England. The condition of Scotland
during the reign of this priggish, pig-headed monarch was truly deplor-
able. The hereditary feuds to which he found it a prey at the commence-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 211
mont of his reign were unspeakably aggravated and embittered by his
absurdly pedantic and truculent rnisgovernment. Unblushing greed, un-
tamed ferocity, fiendish revenge, all licensed and protected at the cheap
expense of unlimited flattery, tilled the land with misrule and oppression ;
while ever and anon the people were ' startled with some new caprice,
some wild fantastic antic, of the King's paradoxical vanity and wrong-
headedness — the personal rule run mad — at whose grotesqueness we
might well laugh, were not its meanness, or its cool remorseless cruelty,
more likely to make us blush for shame or burn with indignation. The
flood of ecclesiastical pitch, emptied on the bosom of his mother-land,
from " the fountain of honour" by this " defender of the Faith," we for-
bear to touch. For at its best it was very unsavoury, and it is still hot
enough to burn unwary fingers. That burn over Scotland's heart is not
yet sufficiently healed to admit of the crust being removed, and the red
scar mollified with ointment.
In times more recent than the seventeenth century, ecclesiastical con-
fusion necessarily implied educational disorganisation. But the civil and
social state of the Highlands in the reign of James VI., even if there ex-
isted no ecclesiastical hindrances, made the education of the people practi-
cally impossible. The merest glance at the history of the times yields
ample proof that it was so. Think, for example, of the king's wild
scheme for civilising the Western Isles by an invasion of Fifeshire
farmers and fishermen, who, not so much by arms as by fomenting the
basest treachery in families, and instigating to fratricide and murder, were
to drive out the islanders and their chiefs as they would, to use his own
words, " so many wolves and wild boares." Think of the later expedition
in his name by Lumsden of Airdrie and Hay of JSTethercliff, by means of
the like treachery and bloodshed, to "colonise" the Lews. Or look at
that edifying spectacle : the Catholic Earl of Huntly higgling with the
king, whether for ten thousand pounds Scots, the price demanded by the
royal and saintly bloodseller, or for four hundred, he could buy the
privilege of letting loose the claymores of Badenoch to convert to the
true Protestant faith " the barbarians" of Uist, Harris, Barra, and Benbe-
cula. Or turn to the cruel feuds of the Colc[uhouns and the Campbells
with the Macgregors, and the treacherous murder of the Macgregor Chief
in cold blood, and by prostituted forms of law, with seven of his lieuten-
ants, soon to be followed by the wholesale slaughter of his clan. Or take
that outrageous episode in the Synod of Perth, when the infuriated Lord
of Scone, as the King's Commissioner to the Synod, " roaring, gesticulat-
ing, protesting, and blaspheming" over the praying moderator, upset
in his rage the table around which the worshippers were kneeling, and
covered their persons and stifled their devotions with the green cloth
from the overturned table. Or, in fine, weigh the significance of such
daily occurrences as the banishment of the godly Eobert Bruce to Inver-
ness, and the public-spirited bailie, "William Rigg, to some outlandish
place in Caithness, just as the pious head of the Holy Eastern Church,
who is also Emperor of Russia, would bundle off a brace of obnoxious
subjects to Siberia. What conceivable scheme of popular education
could be originated or carried out in such a state of national confusion ?
And yet to that period we owe the formal enactment of the scheme of.
212 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
national education which has been well called the crown of Scotland's
glory. A school in every parish was the cherished idea of John Knox.
But it remained for the Privy Council of James VI. to embody that
grand idea in an Act. This was done in 1616. For more than a hundred
years, however, the Act was in the Highlands at least a dead letter. It
proceeds on the following narrative: — "For samikle as the King's Ma-
jestie, having a special care and regard, that the true religion be advanced
and established in all partis of this Kingdom, and that all his Majestie's
subjects, especially the youth, be exercised and trayned in civilitie, godli-
ness, knowledge, and learning ; and that the vulgar Ingleshe toung be
universallie planted, and the Irishe language, which is one of the chieii
and principall causes of the continuance of barbaritie and incivilitie,
among the inhabitants of the Isles and Heylandis, may be abolished and
removit. And whereas there is no means more powerful to further this
his Majestie's princelie regard and purpose, than the establishing of
schools in the particular paroches of this Kingdom, whair the youth may
be taught at the least to write and reid, and he catechised and instructed
in the grounds of religion. Therefore the King's Majestie, with advise
of the Lords of his Secret Council, has thought it necessar and expedient
that, in every paroch of this Kingdom, quhair convenient means may be
had for intertayning a scoole, a scoole sail be established." Afterwards
confirmed and modified by Parliament in 1633, 1646, and 1696, this
enactment, after the clays of James, was attended with most beneficial
effects in many parts of the Kingdom. But in the Highlands and Islands,
as we have seen, it long remained a dead letter. The clause last quoted
of the Act, it will be observed, is so expressed as practically to anticipate
our modern invention of a " permissive bill." The Act was to come into
force only "quhair convenient means may be had for intertayning a scoole."
And its avowed intention to supplant at once the language of the High-
land people and their ancient religion, must have arrayed against it their
strongest prejudices, even where the excuse of their poverty could not be
pleaded. In point of fact, the poverty of the Highlands in these times is
undoubted. Not only was money scarce, but famines and actual starva-
tion were of common occurrence. And thus the number of parishes,
"quhair convenient means" could not be found " for intertayning a scoole"
must have been great. To obviate this undoubted difficulty some weak
attempts Avere made to nibble timidly at the fringe of the rich embroidered
pall which the barons and landowners had snatched from the coffin of the
ancient Eoman Church, and, rending it roughly asunder, had parted be-
tween them for their own adornment. Thus, in 1690, one year after
the Eevolution, vacant stipends within the Synod of Argyle were
ordained to be applied, " with the consent of the heritors, for training
young men at schools and colleges, as a necessary means for planting
and propagating the gospel, and for introducing civility and good
order into that country." In furtherance of the same end William
III. gave to the same Synod, in 1696, a grant of the rents of the
Bishopric of Argyle. In the same year the king gave also a grant
of £150 a year out of the rents of the Bishoprick of Dunkeld, for
erecting schools and schoolmasters' houses, and for the better endowment
of schoolmasters " in the Highlands of the shires of Perth, Stirling, and
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 213
Dumbarton." But in the three cases the proverbial " slips 'twixt cup and
lip " intervened as usual between the schoolmaster and the king's bene-
ficent purpose, which somehow " was in great measure defeated."* In
the same year the king erected a school in Maryburgh, now Fort-William,
with a salary of £30 sterling ; but in a few years the salary was with-
drawn and the school was given up.
Such was the unhappy state of education in the Highlands when, in
1701, a few private gentlemen in Edinburgh, " who usually met as an
association for the reformation of manners," agreed to use their endeavours
to remedy these evils, and in the endeavour formed the first modest begin-
ning of that great Society whose name occurs so often in these papers. The
first experience of these gentlemen showed how great were the difficulties
and how powerful the prejudices, which they essayed to combat. The
requisite funds were readily provided by voluntary subscription. But
they soon found that a force more powerful than poverty was at work to
keep the School Act of 1616 a dead letter in the Highlands. This is the
short history of the Society's first school : — " Part of the money was
applied towards the erection of a school in the parish of Abertarph, in
Inverness-shire, being the centre of a country where ignorance and Popery
did greatly abound ; but the schoolmaster met with such discouragements
from the inhabitants that, after a trial of a year and a-half, it was found
necessary to suppress the school. "t " Not disheartened," however, " by
so inauspicious an event, the original contrivers of this design extended
their views to the plantation of schools in other parts of the Highlands."
" They published a memorial (1703) setting forth the disorders in those
countries, and proposing various methods for redressing them, chiefiy
by promoting religion and virtue ; they likewise pointed out how funds
might be raised for those ends from vacant stipends, a general collection,
and private subscriptions and mortifications. Copies of this memorial
were dispersed among the members of the Scottish Parliament, and the
draught of a bill for rendering effectual the scheme therein suggested, was
prepared, but never passed into an Act."J
"While thus it was evident that the Scottish Parliament would hear
of nothing that implied the disgorging of ever so small a portion of the
ill-gotten spoils of its members, it is gratifying to observe that the Gene-
ral Assembly very heartily took up the matter. In 1704 an Act of
Assembly was passed, " recommending a contribution " for the purposes
above-mentioned. In 1706 the Commission of Assembly was instructed
to " inquire how the Highlands and Islands were provided with schools,
what places did most need them, and what encouragement might be ex-
pected by those who were inclined to form a Society for maintaining
charity schools in those countries;" and, in 1707, the Assembly "ap-
pointed a select committee to consider this matter, who, after several
conferences " with the promoters of the scheme, " published proposals for
propagating Christian knowledge in the Highlands and Islands of Scot-
land, and in foreign parts of the world." The result was eminently
* An Account of the Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge, p. 3. Edin-
burgh 1774.
t An Account. &c.. p. 4.
± Ibid.
214 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
satisfactory. From the old endowments of the Church, now firmly
clutched by the nobles and landowners, not a shilling could, of course, be
obtained. But " Her Majesty Queen Anne was graciously pleased to
encourage the design by her royal proclamation" (1708); and, in 1709,
on the funds from church collections and voluntary subscriptions exceeding
the goodly amount, for the times, of £1000 sterling, she granted letters-
patent, under the great seal of Scotland, for erecting certain of the sub-
scribers into a corporation.
Thus was founded the great religious and educational charity, the first
of all our countless similar societies in Scotland, whose name, in addition
to many other inestimable blessings to the Highlands, will ever be
honourably associated with the translation of the Holy Scriptures into
the tongue of the Scottish Gael. In 1711, their capital now amounting
to £3700, the directors of the Society settled a school in the lone isle of
St Kilda, with a salary of 300 merks (£16 13s 4d). In the same year
they resolved to erect "eleven itinerant schools, which, in order to be
more extensively useful, should be stationed by turns in the places fol-
lowing : — One in Abertarph ; two in the Highlands of Aberdeenshire, in
and about the Braes of Mar, on the heads of the rivers Don and Dee ; a
fourth in the boundsof the Presbyteryof Sutherland; a fifth in the parishes
of Duirness and Farr, in the Presbytery of Caithness ; a sixth in the Pres-
bytery of Skye ; a seventh in some part of the Duke of Athole's High-
lands, which should be specified by his Grace ; the eighth in the parish
of Glenelg ; the ninth in the south isles and continent of Orkney ; the
tenth in the north isles thereof; and the eleventh in the isles and conti-
nent of Zetland."* The schoolmasters of the eight schools first named
were to have each a salary of 300 merks and the other three of only 150
nierks " until the Society's stock should be increased." The teachers
were to remain for at least two years in the same station, and their circu-
lation in their several districts was to be determined, "on proper infor-
mation," by a committee of the Society. This committee was also em-
powered to provide school buildings, to appoint teachers, and furnish " a
sufficient number of Bibles, New Testaments, Proverbs, Catechisms, &c.,"
for the schools. In 1712, five of these eleven schools were already in
operation ; next year there were twelve schools ; and two years later
twenty-five.
In 1717 the Society represented to the General Assembly that "in
many places where the Society's schools are settled, there are no parochial
schools, as provided by law, by which means it so happens, that the
Society's schools serve only to ease the heritors and parishioners of the
burden imposed on them by statute." The General Assembly of the
same year " remitted the said matter to a committee," on whose report, in
1719, the Assembly passed an act " recommending to the several Presby-
teries and Synods to carry into execution the powers vested in them by
the Acts of Parliament in that case made and provided." In the same
year the Assembly gave the Society £742 9s 7§d, and also renewed
former recommendations in favour of its benevolent and patriotic objects.
At this time the Society's capital had grown to £8168, and the number
* Society's minutes.
THE CELTIC MAGAZIKE. 215
of schools, from 25 three years before to 48. The year 1825 witnessed
the beginning of what has ever since been known as the Royal Bonnty,
in a donation to the General Assembly by King George I. of £1000, to
be employed for the " reformation of the Highlands and Islands and other
places where Popery and ignorance abound,"
Balked in their design to procure an endowment for schools out of the
secularised wealth of the disendowed and disestablished Roman Church,
the friends of education in Scotland were now looking for money in
another direction. They claimed a share of the forfeited estates of de-
capitated or fugitive Jacobites. In this movement the Society took an
eager interest. Its minutes teem with resolutions, reports, and volumi-
nous memorials on the subject. When the Act 1, George L, cap. 54, was
passed " for the more effectual securing of the peace in the Highlands of
Scotland," the Society was at great pains in furnishing His Majesty's
Commissioners with all needful information for their report, That report
stated that 151 schools, exclusive of those already established, were
absolutely necessary in the Highlands. Through information furnished
by the Society the Commissioners were enabled to embody in their re-
port a minute specification of the circumstances, and a " geographical
description" of each of these 151 stations, where schools were most
urgently needed. The amount required for the support of these schools
was stated at £3000 per annum. Following on this report came the Act
4, Geo. I., cap. 8, which provides that out of the monies arising from
the sale or rents of the forfeited estates, a capital stock of £20,000 be
appropriated " towards erecting and maintaining schools in the Highlands
of Scotland."
To secure the proper application of the money thus appropriated by
Parliament, the Society used its utmost efforts and influence. It made
repeated applications to the members of both Houses of Parliament for an.
Act directing the manner in which the £20,000 should be applied to the
purposes to which it had been appropriated, and they even approached
His Majesty by petition on the subject. But the result was only another
experience of the difficulty of securing the application of " forfeited" funds
to any useful public purpose. This was to the Society a great disappoint-
ment and sore discouragement, which was shown by withdrawing all its
schools on or near the forfeited estates. But in stead of despairing, it only
set itself more earnestly than ever to its pious and patriotic work. From
48 schools and a capital of £8168 in 1719, its progress in 1728 had
reached 78 schools, with 2757 scholars, though its capital was still not
more than £9131 15s 9d. In 1733 the Society had 111 schools, and a
capital of £14,694. In 1738, with the view of "curing that habit of
idleness too prevalent in the Highlands," the Society obtained its "second
patent," whereby it was empowered to instruct poor children " in hus-
bandry, trades, and manufactures." This new enterprise resulted in a few
salaried smiths, carpenters, millers, shoemakers, and other mechanics,
being sent down to different parts of the Highlands ;* but the scheme
* There were schools for (1), agiiculture in Callander ; (2), flax-dressing, weaving,
spinning, &c., at Portsoy ; (3), for linen manufacture at Logierait ; (4), agriculture
and gardening at Craig, near Montrose ; (5), a blacksmith, shoemaker, cartwright,
and ploughman at Lechcarron, in conjunction with the Board of Fisheries and
216 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
speedily fell through, and survives only in the form of schools for sewing
and knitting. March 8, 1739, is memorable for a minute to the effect
that Alexander Macdonald, one of the Society's schoolmasters (Mac
Mhaighstir Alasdair), by recommendation of the Presbytery of Lorn, had
composed a Gaelic and English vocabulary, printed for the use of the
schools ; the first schoolbook, so far as we can learn, that ever was printed
in Scotch Gaelic. In 1748, the schools were 140, and the capital, by
careful management, had grown to £22,237. In the same year it is re-
corded that Joseph Darner, Esq., an Irish gentleman, besides a donation
to the funds of the Society, was at the expense of translating and printing
1000 copies of Baxter's Call in Gaelic. In 1753 the schools were 152,
and the stock £24,308. In 1758 the Mother's Catechism was translated
into Gaelic, and published by the Society for use in its schools. In the
same year it is recorded that the Society, " finding that all endeavours
used by them for having parochial schools settled in every parish, had
hitherto proved ineffectual, and that no fewer than 175 parishes, within
the bounds of 39 Presbyteries, where the Society's schools were erected,
have no parochial schools, represented this matter to the General Assembly;
who, having taken the same into consideration, made an act, appointing
the several Presbyteries to inquire, whether or not a parochial school is
established in every parish in their bounds, and where such schools are
wanting, to make application to the Commissioners of Supply, in terms
of law ; and also appointing the Procurator and Agent of the Church, at
the public charge, to carry on all processes necessary for that purpose."
The peremptory character of this act is in marked contrast to the mere
" recommendation" of that of 1719.
Thus, by the labour of the schoolmaster, who in most cases was also
the Christian missionary, was the Society for Propagating Christian
Knowledge preparing the untutored Highland people of these rude, un-
settled times to enter with intelligence on the heritage of God's Word in
their native tongue, the history of whose preparation has occupied us in
the three previous papers of this series. How far the education thus im-
parted was really effectual in fitting the Highlander to read the Gaelic
Bible, which, in 1807, was placed freely at his disposal, is an inquiry
which must still be postponed to a future paper.
While correcting the proof of this paper I cannot help being struck
with the great extent of quoted matter which it contains. And yet this
quoted matter has cost me much more labour than that which is original.
But where the page is most speckled with the inverted commas of quota-
tion it is hoped that the thoughtful reader will not find the least of real
historic interest. At all events the quotations are the fruit of a search
whose labour has to the searcher not been devoid of pleasure. For not a
little of this pleasure he desires to acknowledge his indebtedness to Mr
James Grant of the Historical Department of the General Register House,
the learned author of the History of the Burgh Schools, and Mr Donald
Macpherson of the Advocates' Libraiy.
Manufactures ; aad (6), a smith and a gardener at Glenmoriston. A legacy for the
purposes named in this second patent was applied partly in " buying wheels and reels,
to be distributed in different places, and partly iu putting out promising lads " from the
Society's schools as apprentices to tradesmen and manufacturers. In this way " many
young women have been taught to spin, and many young men have been initructed in
various branches of trade and manufacture."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 217
Will the readers of the Celtic Magazine allow me to submit to them
a practical suggestion, which I think of some importance ? Why should
not the work of which this episode in our history of the Gaelic Bible is
but a hasty and accidental specimen be gone about in a deliberate and
systematic way ? My somewhat promiscuous search for the materials of
this paper has led me into vast quarries of precious historical matter,
which a fire, such as raged the other day among the oldest records of the
student life of our University, may any day put for ever beyond our
reach 1
Let us then have some sort of new SPALDING CLUB to look after these
records of the past, which are fast mouldering to decay. They are not
dead though buried : they are dumb only because the dust and rubbish
of years sit heavily on their lips : clear this away and their mouth will
discourse wonderful things of the bygone days and ways of our people.
DONALD MASSON, M.A., M.D.
IAN" MACTAYISH.
NESTLING in a beautiful and secluded glen, sheltered by the surrounding
hills, near the picturesque Loch Riven in Strathnairn, might be seen, dur-
ing the latter part of the seventeenth century, a small, yet comfortable
homestead. The exceptional tidiness of the outhouses, the cleanliness of
the cottage, and the evident attention bestowed upon the garden, plainly
indicated that its occupant was a man of very different habits and tem-
perament to the great majority of his fellow countrymen of that period.
In fact, Ian Roy Mactavish was a man far in advance of his age in his ideas
of political economy, though doubtless he was innocent of the meaning
of the term. While the rest of the clan were thinking of nothing but
fighting and destroying, preferring to raid into other territories for their
supplies of cattle and forage, leaving their own land untilled and unpro-
ductive, Ian chose this, the most secluded and fertile spot he could find,
built his cottage, planted his garden, sowed his crops, and brought home his
young wife, Jessie, desiring to live at peace with all men. Little more than
a year had elapsed in the most perfect happiness and security, when the
summit of lau's felicity was reached by becoming the proud father of a
fine healthy boy. His wife was attended to on the auspicious occasion,
by an elderly woman, Janet Macdougall, a noted character in the district,
her fame having spread far and wide, as a successful midwife, or "howdie."
Having also an extensive knowledge of the medicinal properties of herbs,
combined with great experience and shrewdness, she was universally applied
to in cases of accident or illness — such a personage as a doctor being
then unknown in the Highlands. Janet was a remarkable-looking woman,
a tall spare figure, slightly bowed with advancing years, a pale, grave
face, in which care and sorrow had drawn many a wrinkle, expressive
a
218 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
black eyes, fearless and bright when work was to be done, but which, in
moments of repose, wore a sad, far-away, and eerie look. No one knew
her age, and few her history, which, though humble, had been tragic.
She was once a happy wife and mother, but her husband had fallen,
claymore in hand, and face to the foe ; her dwelling was burnt over her
head, and herself and children were turned adrift helpless and alone on
an iinsympathetic world. By the time when she came to Strathnairn she
was childless as well as widowed, and she ever after remained the same
lonely woman, devoting her time and attention to the physical wants of
those around her, in the capacity of midwife and general physician for the
district. She was treated with considerable respect, combined with no
little amount of awe, for she was popularly believed to be a Saibhscar, or
gifted with second-sight, and many were the wonderful tales related of
her visions and their strange fulfilment.
It was the afternoon of a fine autumn day, the parting rays of the
declining sun illumined and beautified the scene, and played on the
wavelets of the loch, till the water looked like molten gold, shining on
the heather-clad hills, till they appeared crowned with a halo of many-
coloured glory. Ian was engaged tending his cows, quietly grazing by
the side of the loch, and chewing the cud with that air of placid content-
ment so characteristic of these docile animals when well cared for. Mac-
tavish being an industrious man was enjoying himself and utilising his
time fishing, as well as tending his cattle, which he could easily do with
the valuable assistance of his faithful and well trained collie. As he
angled in the loch or glanced at his herd, he felt supremely happy, free
from any anxiety about his beloved \vife, now so far convalescent, that
Janet was leaving them that same day. He mused with pleasure on the
thought of his infant son, IIOAV he would train him up with the same ideas
as his own, that he might prove a blessing to him in his old age. These
agreeable meditations were suddenly interrupted by old Janet, who had
left the cottage and came to bid him farewell. While thanking her for
her kind attention to his wife, he was struck with astonishment at the
change that came suddenly over her countenance. She stood and looked
earnestly in his face, her grey head bent forward, with a pair of staring
eyes, which appeared to look through and beyond him, as it were, while
her face became deadly white and drawn up as if with pain. For a moment
or two she stood thus ; then, with a low moan, she removed her fixed
gaze, and trembling violently, sat down on the grass, moaning and
lamenting, " Ochan ! ochan ! sad and sorry am I to see such a sight, and
the poor young creature with the dear babe, what will she do, alas, alas."
Ian was quite unable to comprehend what ailed her, and begged her to
explain what was the matter. This Janet appeared most unwilling at
first to do, continuing to lament to herself in half-broken sentences of
which Mactavish could make no sense. When she became more com-
posed she asked him if he had an enemy, from whom he had any reason
to dread violence. He assured her that, to the best of his knowledge, he
had no personal enemy, at the same time asking an explanation of her
strange behaviour. Being so urgently pressed, she told him that she
feared his life would not be a long one, for that she had a vision concerning
him, and " Oh," she continued, while her voice trembled, "Oh, Mactavish,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 219
it will not be long before you are called, for I saw tlie death shroud
covering you up to your head, and ochan ! ochan ! there was a big rent in
it tco, which showed that it will be a violent death you will come to.
Indeed, I am extremely sorry for you and your poor young wife, but it's
too true, too true."
Mactavish was naturally startled and somewhat unnerved at this
dreadful communication, but being by no means so superstitious as most
of his countrymen, he soon rallied, and attempted to treat the matter
lightly. Janet, however, was not to be shaken in her belief, and, getting
annoyed at his incredulity, took leave of him and went on her way.
Mactavish resumed his sport, and tried hard to drive the ill-omened
prediction from his mind. The day waned, and the shades of evening
began to gather, throwing the valley into shadow, and making the hills,
now dark and dull, stand out in bold relief against the grey sky. Ian
had just succeeded in hooking a fine large fish, when a low growl from
his faithful collie caused him to look hastily around to discover the cause
of the dog's uneasiness. To his surprise and annoyance he observed a
large party of armed Highlanders approaching, driving before them a great
number of bl*ck cattle, whom he rightly conjectured were some of the
aliens, who then neld possession of the upper part of Stratherrick, return-
ing from a successiul foray. He felt vexed that they should have dis-
covered his retreat, but he apprehended no danger until he saw two or
three of the men detaching themselves from the rest, and beginning to
drive his own small herd away to swell their creach from the Southron.
In vain he ran and shouted, asking them to desist. It was by their
captain's orders, they said, so with hurried footsteps, his heart beating
with dread and burning with indignation, Ian approached the leader, and
demanded the restoration of his cattle. " Why," he exclaimed, " why
should you harry me ; I am no enemy of yours, and have never injured
any of you?"
" You are no friend of ours, and consequently good and fair game,"
answered the alien chief, a tall fierce-looking man, whose daring and
adroitness in planning and executing raids, had made his name well-known
and detested.
" But," pleaded Mactavish, " my few cows can make but little dif-
ference to you. You have already such a large booty, and these are all I
have, restore them and leave me in peace ; perhaps I may be able to do
you as good a turn another day."
" Stop your talking and stand out of my way, fellow, or it will be
worse for you," roughly answered the leader, at the same time pushing
Mactavish aside.
" Well then," persisted Ian in despairing tones, " at least leave me
one cow for the sake of my family, only one."
" No," roared the alien in a terrible voice, " not one, and if you hinder
me any longer I'll burn your house over your head, and scatter the ashes
to the four winds of heaven, and you and your family can dwell with the
wild fox, where you'll have no need of a cow ; take that, and hold your
tongue," and, suiting the action to the word, he finished this brutal speech
by giving Ian a back-handed blow in the face as he moved forward to pasa
him.
220 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Such an insult was not to be tamely submitted to, and with an' inar-
ticulate cry of rage Mactavish darted forward, and, forgetting all prudence,
struck madly at the chief with his fishing hook, which he still held in his
hand. Before the blow could fall, however, one of the party interposed,
and with the ever ready dirk, stabbed Mactavish in the side.
"With a deep groan poor Ian sank on the purple heather, and without
halting to see if the wound was fatal, or even to draw the dirk out of it,
the aliens hurried on, grudging the time they had already spent over
what they considered but a very small affair.
" Alas !" moaned, poor Ian, as he lay helplessly on the ground, his life-
blood crimsoning the fragrant heather, till it seemed to blush for the foul
deed, and call aloud for vengeance against the cruel murderer, " alas, old
Janet spoke the truth, though little did I think her vision would so soon
come to pass. Woe is me, must I die here like a wild beast, with no
friendly hand to close my eyes or to wipe the dews of death from my brow.
My forefathers fought against the Keppochs, and fell gloriously on the
fields of Mavil Roy and Inverlair, but I shall die like the goat on the hill
top, and my flesh shall become the prey of the wild cats and the eagles.
My poor wife, my beloved Jessie, who will tell you of your husband's
death, who will speak words of comfort to the widow1? Must I never see
you more ! never more see my darling boy ! My treasures of love and
hope, how can I die without seeing you once more ! Oh, mo ghaoil,
mo ghaoil, what have I done that I should be torn from your side, and
crushed like an adder under the foot of the stranger? Cursed be the hand
that struck me, may his arm wither and no, I will not curse, I leave
vengeance to a Higher Power, it may be that my son will yet avenge the
murder of his father,"
Here the attention of Mactavish was claimed by his faithful collie,
who had followed the cows for some distance, in the vain hope of turning
them back, and now exhibited the utmost distress at seeing his master in
such a sad condition, licking his hands and face, and whining and howl-
ing in the most dismal manner.
The sight of the dog roused in the dying man's breast such a longing
once more to reach his home and see its beloved inmates, that with an
energy born of despair, he rose to his knees, and with one arm resting
round the dog's neck, attempted to crawl towards his cottage.
His young wife was waiting and watching for his return, the usual
time of his coming arrived, but no Ian ; an hour passed ; Jessie wondered
what was keeping him, perhaps she thought one of the cows had strayed,
he would sure to be home soon now ; so she mended the fire and sat nursing
her baby, looking at him and discovering new charms, with the absorbed
attention and concentrated love of a young mother for her first born ; an-
other hour passed ; she began to get more anxious ; and laying the child
down, she went to the door and looked in every direction, but no sign
could she see of husband, cows, or dog. Perplexed and alarmed she knew
not what to do, or what to dread from this strange occurrence. There
was no one to advise her or to console with her.
In fear and anxiety she wandered aimlessly through the house, or
stood at the door watching in vain for the beloved form that would never
more hasten to me^ her. With troubled voice broken with sobs, she
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 221
called aloud again and again her husband's name. In vain ; in vain !
The night wind carried the sound away, and the cold pale moon looked
calmly down, as if in mockery of her passionate grief. The feeble cries
of her infant recalled her to the fireside, where she continued her weary
vigil until midnight, when, hark ! what was that 1 a scratching at the
door ! the pitiful whine of a dog ! Quickly she opens the door, and calls
the dog by name ; he bounds in, barks furiously, and catching hold of
her dress, attempts to draw her back again towards the door. She stoops
to pat him, his shaggy coat is covered with dew, but it is not dew that
leaves those dark footprints on the floor ; and what mark is this that he
leaves on her hand as he licks it 1 Ah ! horror ! it is blood ! gracious
heavens ! what has happened ? Overpowered with emotion she sinks
into a chair, but the honor of the night is not yet passed, her cup of
misery is not yet filled. The dog runs again to the door ; with the dull,
stony look of despair, she sees him re-enter, but who or what is it that
accompanies him ? A ghastly object, crawling slowly and painfully on
hands and knees, bedabbled with blood, with dishevelled hair hanging
over the deathly face; can this be her Ian 1 the stalwart, cheery man she
parted with a few hours back. Spell-bound with terror she stands
motionless, while slowly, painfully, the figure draws nearer her, with sad,
sorrowful eyes, over which the film of death is rapidly drawing, it gazes
on her, and essays to speak, but no sound comes from the parched lips.
With a great effort it seizes her hand in its cold clammy palm, and at the
touch the spell is broken. Jessie realizes that this is indeed her husband,
and with a terrible cry falls senseless to the ground.
Day was dawning before Jessie recovered from her swoon, and oh !
what a terrible awakening it was. As she slowly opened her eyes the
first object that met her gaze was the staring eyes of a corpse, and as con-
sciousness returned, she found her hand clasped by the cold stiff fingers
of her murdered husband.
When she collected her scattered senses, so rudely shaken by this aw-
ful event, and began to realize her great loss, she gave way to the most
extravagant grief, wringing her hands, tearing her hair, and beating her
breast, while uttering the most piercing cries, at one time apostrophising her
beloved one with every endearing term, while she bathed his cold face
with torrents of tears. Anon, with dry eyes and outstretched hand, she
would call down curses on the head of the perpetrator of the cruel deed,
and cry aloud for vengeance ; then again she would melt into lamentations.
" Oh Ian ! my love ! my love ! will you never speak to me more, shall I
never again see the love-light in your eye, or feel the warm pressure of
your lips, never, never, your eyes are fixed and your lips are cold in
death, and I am alive to see it ; oh ! would that I were dead, how shall
I live without you ? my husband, my first and only love."
The Availing cries of the neglected infant now recalled her attention
to it. " Cry on, poor babe," she exclaimed, " you little know the loss
you have sustained, never will you feel the watchful love and care of a
father. Ochan ! ochan ! I will cherish you that you may live to revenge
his untimely death ; see this dirk I draw from the gaping wound, see it
covered with the life-blood of your father, may you live my child, and
one day sheath it in the black heart of his murderer,"
222 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
As she became calmer she began to think what was best for her to do.
There was no dwelling within several miles, and besides, being in perfect
ignorance from whom, or for what cause, her husband had met his death,
she was afraid to go to strangers for help ; at last she concluded to go to
her father's house, where she would be sure of assistance.
Having, with many tears and choking sobs, performed the last sad
duties to the dead, she left the faithful dog in charge of his beloved
master, and taking her infant in her arms, set out on her long and lonely
journey.
"Wearily she plodded on, weak from her recent illness, and, borne
down with grief, she felt at times as though she must give up the attempt,
and lie down and die, but then the thought of her dead husband lying in
the desolate cottage would nerve her to make still another effort to obtain
assistance, and have his remains, properly interred. At length she
reached her father's house, and told her sad tale, which was listened
to with the greatest horror of the deed, and sympathy for herself. Her
father and some friends at once started to fetch the body of poor Mac-
tavish, and a sad, sad, sight it was for the young widow to see the funeral
cortege return. First came, with solemn tread, the piper, the mournful
wailing notes of the lament announcing the approach of the iuncral
party long before they came in sight; then came four strong young men
bearing on their broad shoulders the mortal remains of their murdered
friend. Behind followed Jessie's father and a large party of friends and
relatives, all armed with dirk and broadsword, for in those wild, unsettled
times they were never sure but they might be interrupted, even on such
a melancholy and peaceful errand as they were now engaged in.
The broken-hearted Jessie could not bear the id«a of returning to her
cottage, where every object would constantly remind her of her bereave-
ment She therefore decided to remain with her father, and after the
furniture and plenishing had been removed, the cottage, which had been
built and furnished with such loving care, and bright hopes of happy
years to be spent in it, was left to ruin and decay, a striking monument
of the uncertainty of man's life and enjoyment.
Jessie called her boy Ian, after his father, and when he grew old
enough to understand her, she would talk to him by the hour together, of
his dead father, praising his virtues and deploring his untimely end. This
sort of conversation made a great impression upon the child's mind, end-
ing, as it usually did, by the dirk being shown to him encrusted with the
blood of his father.
Thus, his mother fired his imagination, and incited his young mind
to thoughts of revenge and retaliation. The dirk being the only clue
they had to the murderer, she gave it to young Ian when he was old
enough to wear it, and told him to always have it ready until he should
find the man, and sheath it in his heart. As he grew up, and his disposi-
tion and temper became more developed, it was seen that he was in tem-
perament the very opposite to his father. Bold and courageous, he
rather courted than shrunk from danger, Eestless and daring, he looked
with disdain upon the simple life of a husbandman. His ardent nature
made him burn to distinguish himself in deeds of warlike skill and daunt-
less courage. These qualities, combined with a hardy robust frame, and
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE, 223
very handsome features, made him conspicuous among his companions,
and attracted the attention of the Laird of Gorthlick, who was so taken,
with his appearance and manner, that he determined to save him from the
drudgery of a farmer's life, and give him a chance of pushing his fortunes
in a more congenial sphere. Ian was, accordingly, much to his own de-
light and to the satisfaction of his mother, admitted an inmate of the
castle, as a sort of confidential attendant or page to its master.
Here several years passed swiftly and happily ; young Mactavish daily
growing in the favour of his patron, who, having no son of his own, gra-
dually came to treat Ian as one, and took a great pride in seeing his
protege acquit himself so bravely in the frequent skirmishes they had
with the aliens, a large number of whom still held possession of the upper
part of Stratherrick, and were continually making raids on the neighbour-
ing territories. Evan Dubh, their captain, was a bold unscrupulous man,
somewhat advanced in years, but still full of energy and enterprise.
When our hero was about eighteen, his patron was called away with
the best part of his followers, to attend a grand meeting of the Clans, held
at some distance, and before leaving home, called young Mactavish, and
told him that he should leave him in charge at home, during his absence.
And young as he was, yet he had every confidence in his courage and
prudence, and not only left him in command of the men who remained
behind, but also entrusted to him the safe keeping of the castle; and,
most precious of all, the charge and safety of his only daughter, the lovely
Catharine, then just blooming into womanhood. lan's heart beat high at
the great honour paid to him by this signal proof of his Chief's confid-
ence, but especially at being considered worthy of being constituted the
guardian and protector of the beautiful and fascinating Catharine, whom
he had long worshipped at a distance, as if she were a superior being of
another world ; and now he was actually her guardian, and on him de-
pended her safety and well-being, until the return of her father. His brain
was in a whirl with ecstasy, and his heart thrilled with emotion, as a vision
of possible future bliss rose in his agitated breast. " If her father deems
me worthy of being her protector for a time, is it not just possible, if I do
my duty and deserve her, that I may be yet considered worthy of her for
life. Little need had he to urge me to watch over her carefully. I would
lay down my life at any moment to do her service."
Eor a few days after the Chief had left everything was quiet and se-
cure, and Ian began secretly to wish that some danger might arise to af-
ford him an opportunity of showing his devotion to the fair Catharine.
On the evening of the fifth day, however, the alarm was given at the
castle that a large party of the aliens, headed by the renowned captain,
Evan Dubh himself, was driving the cattle from their pasture, molesting
the men in charge of them, and threatening to attack the castle. Hastily
summoning his men, and bidding Catharine to keep close indoors and
have no fear, Mactavish, with his trusty band, rushed out to meet and
chastise the intruders. Evan Dubh, fully acquainted with the Chief's
absence from the castle, had expected an easy victory, and was consider-
ably taken aback by the sudden and impetuous onslaught of Ian, but,
noting the smallness of the defending body, he determined to give fight,
and recalling the men engaged in driving off the cattle, a regular pitched
224 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
battle ensued. The aliens largely outnumbered the defending party, and
for a time Ian seemed to be getting the worst of it, when Mactavish
signalling out the alien leader, worked his way to where he stood, hew-
ing doAvn every one who came in his way, A fearful hand-to-hand com-
bat took place between them. Evan Dubh was a strong built man, some-
what under the middle height, whose life had been spent in warfare.
With iron sinews, eagle eye, and a ready hand, which constant practice
had rendered perfect in the use of his weapon, he was a formidable oppo-
nent to the youthful Ian, who, however, never yet flinched. What he lacked
in weight, he made up by extra agility, and his want of experience was
compensated by his impetuosity and daring. His eye was quick, and his
courage as high as that of his enemy. Evan Dubh first looked with disdain
at the youthful appearance of Mactavish, and contemptuously exclaimed, —
"Fall back, thou presumptuous stripling, ere I kill thee at one blow.
Wait till thy beard has grown before thou cross swords with me." lan's
only answer to this was a furious blow at Evan's head, which he parried
with difficulty, and he soon found that he had a foeman worthy of his
steel, boy though he was. The strife was severe, and the ultimate result
seemed doubtful, but the fiery energy and quick movements of Ian began
to tell on the older warrior, who, with labouring breath, gathered himself
together for a final blow, which he hurled with all his remaining strength
at the devoted Ian. The stroke descended with lightning-like rapidity,
but our hero quickly parried it, and, with a sudden thrust, wounded Evan,
who dropped on his knees, his broadsword falling from his nerveless
grasp. Dropping his own sword, young Ian drew his dirk, and springing
upon his opponent, bore him to the earth, and, holding his dirk before
the eyes of the prostrate man, demanded if he would now submit himself
as a prisoner, and save his life. Instead of replying, the wounded alien
glared with glazed eyes and horror-stricken look upon the blood-stained
dirk which Ian held before him.
" Do you yield ]" shouted Ian.
Still Evan Dubh answered not, but keeping his eyes fixed on the dirk,
muttered incoherently, " It is, it is, the same, my own. Many a year has
passed since last I used it !N'
Mactavish losing patience, and fearing he should lose his advantage,
in the excitement of the moment, buried his dirk in the breast of his
antagonist. The blow did not prove immediately fatal, and, as Ian drew
it back from the dying man's breast, Evan seized his arm, and in faltering
tones, exclaimed — "Where got ye that dirk? Well do I know it, long
have I carried it, and many a brave enemy has felt its point, and now it
has done for myself at last ! Ah, poor Mactavish, I left it embedded in
thy side, by the bank of bonnie Loch Eiven, which I am now doomed to
see no more." "What," cried Ian, in terrible excitement and rage, "what
did you say 1 Was it your hand that shed the innocent blood of my fa-
ther ? Speak ! speak ! you shall not die until you tell me :" and, in his
eagerness and passion, he violently shook the expiring alien, who faintly
replied, " Your father ! was that your father ? Ah, I see him. I remem-
ber him. Look ! he is pleading with our captain. Ah, ha ! he might as
well have asked mercy from the woll ! I see him now raise his arm to
strike — fool, your father, he soon got his answer. And yet I wish I had
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 225
not killed him in that way. It was not a fair fight — raise me up, I am
choking ; keep off Mactavish ! Why do you glare on me so 1 Give me
back my dirk ! I did not mean to kill you — keep off ! away ! away !
Oh ! I did ." The feeble voice was choked, and with a deep groan,
Evan Dubh, who had hitherto never yielded to mortal man, succumbed to
the king of terrors, and, with one last convulsive struggle, his guilty spirit
took its flight.
It would be difficult to analyze lan's feelings as he saw the murderer
of his father expire by his own hand. Deteftation of the man became
mingled with gratified revenge, and awe at the presence of death in such
a fearful form, was mixed with a grim satisfaction that he had been able,
though unwittingly, to avenge the fate of his father.
The aliens., seeing their leader fall, became disheartened, and were soon
put to flight, followed by Mactavish and his men, who made most of
them kiss the sod with Evan Dubh.
Catharine met her youthful and brave champion at the door of the
castle with a veritable April face, smiles and tears struggling for the mas-
tery. She tried hard to command her feelings, and welcome him with a
proper dignity of demeanour, but her emotion on seeing him wounded
overcame all ceremony, and, seizing his hand, she exclaimed with fervour
" Thank heaven ! you have returned. I feared you would have been
killed, and then what would have become of me." Then, as if fearing
she had said too much, she turned and flew to her own apartment, send-
ing a parting glance from under her fringed eyelashes that thrilled through
and through the susceptible heart of Mactavish, and raised him to the
seventh heaven of enchantment.
When Ian related to his mother the strange manner in which he had
discovered the man for whom he had been looking all his life, and showed
her the dirk, now stained with the blood of the slayer of his father, as
well as that of the slain, the widow was satisfied that at long last her be-
loved husband was avenged, and that by the hand of her son ; and both
were still more pleased that Evan Dubh had met his death in fair fight,
and that lan's conscience was clear from bloodguiltiness.
On Eraser's return home, he was extremely pleased at the bold man-
ner in which Mactavish had met and defeated the raiders ; and when his
daughter, in glowing and eloquent terms, dwelt on the devotion and
heroism of young Ian, the old man soon guessed the secret which she
thought was yet safely locked in her own breast' ; and being well pleased
that her choice should be such a worthy one, he cheerfully agreed to
his daughter's proposed alliance, and left Ian to plead his own cause with
the maiden, which he, rendered eloquent by love, did to such good pur-
pose, that the marriage-day was soon fixed ; and, amid the congratula-
tions of friends, and the blessing of lan's widowed mother, the lovely
Catharine was led to the altar, a blushing bride, by the young and gal-
lant Ian Ban Mactavish.
M. A. ROSE.
226 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
THE CROFTER'S LAMENT.
Oh ! weep not, my Mary, thy tears give me anguish,
And break the proud spirit that dwells in my heart ;
Tho' doomed in the land of our fathers to languish,
Thy sorrow wounds more than our Fate can impart : —
Ochon ! from our shieling we're ruthlessly driven,
And reft of our little with pitiless scorn,
The God of the homeless in merciful Heaven,
Shall surely give bread to his children forlorn; —
Banished we'll weary roam,
Seeking another home,
And strangers shall wander where happiness dwelt,
Ruins shall mark the spot,
Where stood our lowly cot,
And silence shall tell of the wrongs we have felt.
Yon lordly oppressor may smile at our grieving,
And laugh at the tears which the helpless have shed ;
The wealth that he craves from injustice, is leaving
The withering curse of the poor on his head ; —
No more shall the love of the humble give glory,
The hall of his sires is o'ershadowed with shame,
The winds from the mountains shall whisper the story,
That clings with dishonour around the old name : —
Loveless for ever then,
Hateful to Highlandmen,
No beauty remains where cold avarice sways,
Heedless of love's reward,
Honoured with no regard,
All joyless the life where no tongue can give praise,
Ah ! weep not, my Mary, tho' now we are going
From all that we cherished for many long years ;
The grasp of the proud, tho' our sorrows bestowing,
Can crush not the love which is told in thy tears ; —
Farewell, ye blue mountains ! ye mourners forsaken,
How oft have ye echoed the wails of the sad ;
Farewell, ye green valleys ! no more shall ye waken
The songs of the happy or shouts of the glad : —
Ever in glow and gloom,
Telling of dool and doom,
Wild breathing the tale of your children opprest,
Crushed 'neath the Saxon's thrall,
Silent and sadly all,
We leave ye, but love ye for ever the best.
STJNDEBLAND. WM. ALLAN.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 227
GENEALOGICAL NOTES AND QUERIES.
o
ANSWERS.
THE CUTHBERTS OF CASTLEHILL.
THE enquiry concerning the Cuthbert Family, which occurs among the
Genealogical Notes and Queries in the last Celtic Magazine, opens up a
somewhat lengthy subject, for this family seems to have occupied a promi-
nent position in this district for 300 years from the close of the 15th cen-
tury. The Great Seal Index contains a quantity of charters, and there are
Eegisters of Sasines and innumerable deeds in their favour during that long
period. There is frequent mention of the Cuthberts also in the Lovat
Charters ; while they appear to have intermarried with most of the neigh-
bouring families ; and Cuthberts were oftentimes Provosts of Inverness.
Their genealogy is given by an Act of Parliament of Scotland, vol. viii.,
James VII., A.D. 1686, entitled, "Warrant of Bore Brieve to Charles
Colbert of Seignelay." They had their rise in the South — whither they
ultimately retired — and their names are written both as Colbert and
Cuthbert ; the latter invariably in the North.
The following Memoir is extracted from a MS. volume in the Advo-
cates' Library, Edinburgh, entitled " Materials from a Baronage of Scot-
land":—
" The family has held the Barony of Castlehill from the Crown of Scot-
land as a Royal feu, for services rendered, and for services to be rendered,
to the King. Other lands they held in vassalage from particular supe-
riors, such as the Town of Inverness, the Barons of Dacus, &c., as appears
from Charters granted by these. Also the lands of Drakies, Stonifield,
Mucovie, and other tenures.
" The representatives of the Castlehill family have always been called
by the Highlanders, " Maclrish " or MacGeorge. The armorial bearing
of the principal family is a Serpent erect, azure • the former motto was
Perite et Rede ; but in 1411, a Cuthbert led the forces of the Town of
Inverness with the King's troops against Macdonald of the Isles, and for .
his behaviour at Harlaw there was added to his shield, a Fess Gules on a
field Or, and for a crest, a Hand in a gauntlet, holding a weapon like an
arrow, and the former words was added for motto, Nee minus Fortiter.
Two bay-coloured horses were granted him for supporters.
" The oldest Charter known of the family was by King James III. in
1478, of the lands of Auld Castlehill, to William Cuthbert, son to John,
and grandson of George, who had distinguished himself at Harlaw. The
next, by Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1548 to George, nephew and apparent
heifi of John Cuthbert of Castlehill, and to his heirs male. The family
has subsequently obtained other Charters, of which the most explicit is
that granted by King James VI in 1592, which was confirmed by King
Charles I. in 1625.
" The Bailiff of the family administered justice in the name of the
228 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
owner of the estate to his dependents, and representatives of the family
filled the offices of High Sheriff of Inverness and Eoss, Knights of the
Shire, &c. They were founders of a Chapel at Inverness, under the In-
vocation of St Cuthbert, which was afterwards destroyed by the Cal-
vinists. The family of Castlehill, however, has always preserved its right
of sepulture in the site of the old chapel.
"Cuthbert of Drakies, new Inverness, possessed also Loch Line (ILinnhe)
and Auchintua in Eoss. The branch was extinct by the death of George
Cuthbert of Drakies, who, having no issue, disposed of his property in
favour of Jam«s Cuthbert, second son of George of Castlehill, whose des-
cendants are in Georgia and South Carolina. Another branch is supposed
to have settled in Angus-shire, there being on record a Charter of the
lands of Eoscoby, near Forfar, to N. Coubert, A.D. 1588,
"The lands of Mains and Ochterton, in Aberdeenshire, were granted by
Charter to N. Cudbert, in 1610 ; those of Nether Cloquart in Perthshire,
to N. Cuthbert of Cloquart in 1634.
" The most considerable branch, however, of the family is in Cham-
pagne, in France, established there since the 13th century, when Nicolas
Cuthbert of COLBERT went from Scotland to France, and fixed his residence
near Eheims, where his tomb is to be seen in the Church of the Monks
of St Eemi ; with the inscription — " Ci gist le preux chevalier Nicolas
Colbert, dit ly Ecossois : priez pour 1'ame de Ly." From this Nicolas
descended the great Jean Baptiste Colbert, ' le grand Colbert,' minister of
State to Louis XIV. He, and after him, his son, the Marquis of Seig-
nelay, sent to Scotland a request for their pedigree. The Bore-brief was
drawn up by George Cuthbert, Provost of Inverness, and presented to
the States of Scotland, in 1687.
I. JOHN CUTHBERT of Castlehill, when a youth, served in the Wars of
Sweden, under Gustavus Adolphus, 1630 ; and, on the death of
his General at Lutzen, returned to his estate, when he married N.
Cuthbert, a daughter of Cuthbert of Drakies, by whom he had a
son and nine daughters, who were mostly married to neighbouring
gentlemen.
II. GEORGE CUTHBERT, son of John, succeeded his father, and married
Magdalen, daughter of Sir James Fraser of Brae, niece to Lord
Lovat, by whom he had three sons and a daughter, Magdalen,
married to Hugh, fifteenth Baron of Kilravock, as third wiffe.
III. JOHN, the eldest, succeeded his father, and married Jean Hay, only
daughter of the Eight Eev. N. Hay of Dalgetty, last Bishop of
Moray ; by her he had four sons. (This lady appears as a claimant
on the Estate of Simon, Lord Lovat, in 1757, in the Frazerdale
case.)
IV. GEORGE, the eldest, succeeded his father, and married Mary Mac-
kintosh of Blairvie, a cadet of Holme. By her he had a great
many children, of whom eight were living at their father's death.
" John, the eldest, in the army. He served first as an officer in Hol-
land, in one of the Scotch-Dutch Regiments ; next, in the British army,
and was killed at the siege of Louisberg, where he fought under General
Wolff. He left no issue.
" James, the second son, went to South Carolina, where he died, leav-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 229
ing an estate, a widow, and several children, who are now the representa-
tives of the family.
" Seignelay, the third son, after his father's death, went into France,
where he embraced the ecclesiastic state, and became Grand- Vicar of Tou-
louse, and afterwards Bishop of Rodez, and was appointed President of
the Provincial Assembly of the Haute Guyenne. In 1787 he was called to
the ' Assembly of Notables ' by the King ; after which he was deputed by
the Clergy of Rovergne to the States General at Versailles in 1789. Re-
fusing to take the Revolutionary oath, he was proscribed by the Party,
and took refuge in England.
" Lewis, the fourth son, went to Jamaica, where he became a Member
of the Legislative Assembly. The last Proprietor of the Cuthbert lands.
" LacJilan, the fifth son, was an officer of Artillery at Belle Isle, where
he received the thanks of the General Commanding. He died a few
years after (without issue) in France, whither he had gone on account of
his health.
" George, the youngest, went to Jamaica, where he became High Pro-
vost-Marshal. He died without issue.
" Madalen, eldest daughter of George, married Major James Johnstone,
65th Regiment. Issue, two sons and one daughter, viz. — Robert, Cap-
tain 39th Foot ; died at Guadaloupe. George, Major 4th or King's Own
Infantry. Mary Ann, married Hon. Francis Grey, brother to Lord Grey,
a Major of the 1st battalion of Breadalbane Fencibles.
" Rachel, 2d daughter of George of Castlehill, married Simon Fraser of
Daltullich. Issue ; John, Alexander, and Seignelay ; Mary ; Catharine
married to Lieut. Robertson of the Hopetown Fencibles ; Helena married
Hannah, officer of Excise at Inverness ; Magdalen and Jean.
" Sons of John III., supra.
11 George, his heir ; Lauchlan, second son, went to France, where he en-
tered the army, and became Marechale de Camp, or Major-General. He
married in France, — Hereford, by whom he had a son, Roger, Baron de
Colbert; and a daughter, who died unmarried.
" Alexander, third son, went to France, and became L'Abb6 Colbert.
"James, fourth son, went to America, to South Carolina, where he twice
married, and had a numerous family.
" Jean, the eldest daughter, married Thomas Alves of Shipland, Inver-
ness. Her issue — 1st, John Alves, Physician at Inverness, married first,
— Campbell of the Calder family. Issue — 1, Thomas, in Jamaica; 2,
Archibald, of Springfield, Edinburgh ; 3, Alexander, in Jamaica, d.s.p. ;
4, Jean, married an Irish Presbyterian minister. John Alves, married
2d, — Baillie of Dunain. Issue — 1, William, in Demerara, distinguished
in the defence of St Vincent against the French, when he was wounded ;
2, Ann ; 3, Helen, married — Inglis, brother to William Inglis, Provost
of Inverness.
" Jean, 2d son Thomas, and 3d James.
" After the death of George IV. supra, the Estate, burdened with heavy
debt, was left by his children to the creditors, and came to a judicial sale
in 1 780, when it was purchased by Alexander Cuthbert, third son of John
and brother to George. He died in 1782, and from his heirs-at-law the
estate was again purchased by George, youngest son of the late George
230 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Cutlibert of Castlchill. He was hardly in possession of the estate, when
he died in Jamaica, without issue, having married Ann Pinnock. His
lauded property devolved on his brother, Lewis, who married Jean Pin-
nock, sister to his brother's wife, of an honourable family in Jamaica, by
whom he had two sons and three daughters. 1st, George, Provost-Mar-
shal and Admiralty Judge at Jamaica ; 2d, Seignelay. Daughters, Eliza-
beth and two others.
" The above is from Deeds, vouchers of which are lodged in the Lyon
office."
Lewis Cuthberfr of Castlehill sold his estate at Inverness, and after-
wards failed in business as a West Indian merchant, and died in a lunatic
asylum. Other branches of the family survive. One member of it was,
in 18GO, living in London, a retired Bengal Civilian. The late General
John Mackenzie of Gahioch (born 1763, died 1860) remembered enter-
taining the then Cuthbert of Castlehill, and the Bishop of Rodez, when
with the left wing of the 78th Regiment at Putney in 1795.
I am not in possession of any information regarding members of the
family still existing ; but in a number of the Courier, published perhaps
a year ago, there was a notice of a sale of some land in Inverness, the
last remnant of the old Cuthbert property.
JAMES D. MACKENZIE.
Meuntgerald, Dingwall, March 1879.
THE Rev. George Seignelay Cuthbert, vicar of Market-Drayton, Salop,
writes, " In answer to the query relative to the Cuthberts of Castlehill, I
am the lineal representative of this ancient family — at all events in Eu-
rope. My father was Seignelay Thomas Cuthbert (H.E.I.C.S.), son of
Lewis Cuthbert, the third son of George Cuthbert, the last of the Barons
of Castlehill, who resided there and possessed the property. Whether
there are any descendants of James Cuthbert, the eldest son of the said
Baron, still living in America, I do not know ; but the second son, Seig-
nelay, my great-uncle having been Bishop of Rodez in France, and so, of
course, unmarried, I have the honour of being now the direct lineal de-
scendant of the Cuthbert family in the United Kingdom."
THE CHIEF OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE. — We refer "Cabar" to the
article on the CHIEFSHIP, which appears in this number, for an answer to
the principal points in his query. He will find that, failing the family
of Allangrange, the Chiefship reverts to the Old Mackenzies of Dundon-
nell, the representative of which, in this country, is John Hope Macken-
zie, now residing at Tarradale. An elder son went to California, of whom
there is no trace. [Ed. C.M,]
THE CAMERONS. — In "Smibert's Clans" appears the following, on page
101: — "An ancient manuscript History of the Clan Cameron commences
with these words — 'The Camerons have a tradition among them that
they are originally descended of a younger son of the Royal Family of
Denmark, who assisted at the restoration of Fergus II. He was called
Cameron from his crooked nose, as that word imports. But it is more
probable that they are of the Aborigines of the ancient Scots or Caledo-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 231
nians that first planted the errantry.' Mr Skene quotes these words, and
concurs in the latter conclusion, which indeed seems the most feasible in
the case." I do not know where this manuscript History of the Came-
rons is now to be found ; but, unless it was given, like many other
Highland MS. histories, to the late Mr Donald Gregory, and, in consequ-
ence of his death, never returned, it will probably be found in Lochiel's
possession, or in that of Mr "W. F. Skene, who, it is understood, obtained
possession of Gregory's papers and manuscripts. M.
Q V E R I E S.
(9) CHISHOLM OP TEAWIG. — "Wanted, information respecting the Origin and Pedigree
of the Family of Chisholm of Teawig, parish of Kilmorack, Inverness shire. The head
of the family at the end of the seventeenth century was Alexander Chisholm, who was
succeeded by his son of the same name. Hev. Thomas Chisholm and the Rev. David
Chisholm, ministers of Kilmorack, were of this family, which was a landed one, holding
the property of Teawig in fee or in wadset. C.D.A.
(10) GILDONICH. — A somewhat common surname in Kilmorack at the end of the 17th
and beginning of the 18th centuries was that of " Gildonich," sometimes spelt "Mhaol-
donich," sometimes " MacGildonich " and " MacOldonich." The name disappears alto-
gether, so far as the Church Registers are concerned, before 1720. What surname did
the family assume, and what are the members of it now known by? The name "Gildo-
nich " appears to mean "servant of St Dominick." How did it originate in the Aird?
A.C.D.
(11) REV. WILLIAM PHASER OP KILMORACK.— What family of Frasers was this minister
derived from ? He was minister at the end of the 17th century. A.D.C.
(12) CLAN GDNN. — Would any reader of the Celtic Magazine inform me who the
younger sons of Donald Gunn of Killernan (sixth MacHamisb) were — and also who their
descendants were for three generations ? MAClAN.
(13) FERNE, in Ross-shire, at one time the seat of a Monastery was also a Regality, and
as such was competent to Register Deeds as Commissary or Sheriff Courts. Deeds re-
gistered in the "Regality Books of Feme " are frequently named in Highland records.
Does anyone know what became of these books at the absorption or extinction of the
Regality powers? LEX.
(14) THE CCTHBERTS OF INVERNESS.— Mr Fraser-Mackintosh tells us that " Alexander
Cuthbert, predecessor to the Cuthberts of Drakies, was slain at Pinkie (1547)." Will
any grubber amongst the ashes ef ancestors kindly give the predecessors of that gentle-
man and his successors up to Alexander, who died soen after 1600 ; also, the wives and
their families ? The last-named Alexander's spouse was a Christian Dunbar ; was she
of an Inverness family ? F. MEDENHAM.
(15) THE ROSSES OF INVERCHARRON.— Can any Ross, Munro, or Mackenzie Seannachie
fill up the following gaps : — There was a younger branch of Balnagowan called Ross of
Invercharron from the 15th or 16th century until about 1797 (when it was sold to ano-
ther family of Rosses). A William thereof married a daughter of Mackenzie, first of
Davochmaluak. Was this William the first owner or was he William, son of Alexander
of Invercharron— the latter two died from 1620 25 ? Alexander's relict was a Macken-
zie ; of what family was she, and was she a second wife? His grandson, Walter, was =
an Isobella [or Elizabeth] ilonro, telict of Innes of Calrossie, and daughter of Andrew
Monro or George Monro of Miltown ; which is correct ? Any information about this
family previous to 1620 is anxiously sought. QuiLl.
(16) THE PEERAGE AND BARONETCIES OF CROMARTY AND TARBAT.— Will you or any of
the numerous Mackenzies or other antiquarian readers of the Celtic Magazine inform
me who is the present representative of the Cromarty and Tarbat honours in the male
line. The present Duchess of Sutherland, descended from the Earls of Cromarty in the
female line was, in 1861, created Countess of Cromarty, but it is generally believed that
a family of Mackenzies in Lochinvar represent the old family of Tarbat and Cromarty.
I shall esteem it a favour if any one can give me correct information regarding this, and
full particulars about the Lochinvar family and their families, heirs, &c., if any, in your
query column ? TABBAT.
232 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
DUNVEGAN CASTLE.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
The Manse, Narracoorte,
South Australia, 1 4th December 1 878.
DEAR SIR, — I send you the following lines, which I heard recited by an
old friend in my youth, but which I have never seen in print ; and I have
much pleasure in making you a present of them, if you think them wor-
thy of a place in the Magazine. Of their authorship I know nothing —
nor of the subject of his eulogy, — but there must surely be some record
in Skye of the magnificent mansion described by the bard : —
A dhaoine seallaibh air an aitreabh,
'Tha raise faicinn le'm shuillibh !
Cismaol Mac Neill a Barra
An deigh's teachd a steach do'n duthaich^
Teaghlach muirneach, rioghail, ceutach,
Anns am biodh cinn-fheadhna 's diucan,
Piob ga spreigeadh ann ad thrannsa
Srannraich each is fathrum chruithean.
S ann an Steinn a thog thu 'n aitreabh
Far am faighte 'n gloine lionta,
Ruma glas is fion na Frainge,
Uisge beatha 's branndai riornhach
'S ma dheoghainn gach seorsa bidhe
Cha 'n urrainn mi dhuibh ga chunntas :
Cruithneachd, 's briosgaidean nan Innsean,
Muc ga Sgriobadh 's moilt ga'n rusgadh.
A thalla nam buadhanna mora,
S' eibhinn na sloigh 'tha mu'n cuairt duit,
S mor a chi iad do gach ioghna,
Cuir seachad an t' saoghail gun ghruaman ;
Beannachd do'n laimh 'thog na clachan,
Dh'f hag e iad gu daingeann laidir,
'S uair a measa 'shaor a ghiuthais,
Gur buidheach mi dh' obair a laimhe,
'S nam b' urrainn mo bheul innse,
Mar a ta m' inntinn ag raitinn
Cha togar s' cha deanar aitreabh
An taic ris a Chaisteal so lamh ruinn.
[Hero my memory fails me a little.]
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 233
. . . An Eaglais rnlior a tlm'n Glaschu,
. . . S' air a chaisteal a tha'n Struila,
An tur Uaine 'bha 'n Lunainn,
Gum b' iongantach an gniomh dhaoin' e,
Bha aitreabh ann an Hanover,
Le ursnaibh oir s' le comlila airgid,
Ach a leithid so do aitreabh
Cha'n f hacas an taice ri fairge,
Air dheanamh le aol 's le clachan
Cho geal ri sneachda nan garbhlach.
Nuair a chaidh mi stigh '11 'ad thrannsa,
Sheall mi os mo cheann gu diblidh,
Chunnaic mi gach ni bha aghmhor,
'S cha nar dhomh teannadh-r' a innseadh,
Coinnlean ceir a bhi gan lasadh,
Air bord snaighte do'n f hiodli riomhach,
Airgiod is or fad mo sheallaidh,
Sgathanna glaine gu lionmhor.
Thig loingeas nan gunnacha mora,
Le 'n cuid sheol, a stigh fo'cl dhorus,
Theid gach Caiptin sios ga gheolaidh
'S eighidh e, gur mor an f annas,
An aitreabh ucl a tha air tir,
Sa slios cho li ri cli na h'eala,
Teannamaid a steach da h' ionnsaidh,
Sgu'm faiceamaid surd a balla.
Theid iad a steach air a dorus
S' cuiridh iad an ad fo'n cleoca
Suathaidh iad am brogan mine, dubha,
'N Carpat buidhe 's fiamh an oir air,
Siubhlaidh iad gu ciallach, samhacb, modhail, narach,
Feadh do sheomar, an ad s' am brogan fo'n achlais,
'S cha bu lapach an ceann sgoid iad.
Thig iad a mach air a dorus,
Bheir gach fear a shoitheach fein air,
Togaidh iad an siuil ri crannaibh,
Siubhlaidh iad air tonnaibh bronnach uaine,
'S cha stad iad gus an ruig iad Lunainn,
Toirt urram do aitreabh Ruairidh.
I hope the Bard will get into print, and I shall not regret that I have
been the means of introducing him to your readers. — I am, yours faith-
fully, D. M'CALMAN,
Presbyterian Minister.
On receipt, we handed the above to our venerable friend, the Rev.
Alexander Macgregor, M.A., that he might throw what light he could on
the subject of this excellent composition, and he supplied the following
T
234 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
notes, which will no doubt prove interesting to others, as well as to our
friend at the Antipodes : —
There is much interest attached to the ancient Duns or Forts, which
are so numerous on the coasts of the "Western Isles. Some of these are of
very remote antiquity, and may have been built in the pre-historic ages.
Others very probably were erected during the Fingalian wars, while others
were reared as places of defence, at less remote periods, and the Isles,
were seized upon by their Scandinavian invaders. In Skye alone there
are no fewer than about one hundred ruins of various descriptions of forts,
and all of them are situated in suitable localities near the sea. Dun-
Scaith, on the west coast of Sleat, is alluded to by Ossian, and was a very
extensive building, connected with which the remains of a prison and
draw-well are still visible. Of all these forts, that of Dunvegan, in the
parish of Duirinish in Skye, is the only one still inhabited. No doubt it
is the Dun alluded to by the bard in the beautiful Gaelic poem herewith
given. A brief but minute description of this interesting monument of
primeval ages cannot fail to edify the readers of the Celtic Magazine, and
particularly so such as admire the descriptive effusions of Gaelic bards in
praise of their heroic chieftains, and lordly residences. The period v, Lui
the oldest part of this fort was built is buried in remote antiquity. A
portion of it is said to have been erected in the eighth or ninth century.
Subsequently, a lofty tower was raised over the fort by Alasdair Crotach,
about the middle of the thirteenth century, to correspond with an ancient
tower built on the opposite side of the square. For hundreds of years
these two towers were separated from each other, except by a secret pas-
sage excavated from the solid rock ; but, eventually, they were united by
a row of less elevated edifices erected by Euairidh Mor, who received the
honour of knighthood from James VI. It was, no doubt, during the life-
time of Euairidh Mor that the Gaelic song hereto attached was composed,
as that gallant chieftain is evidently the one alluded to in it. Probably it
is the composition of the celebrated poetess, Mairi Nighean Alasdair Euaidh,
who lived in the days of her distinguished relative and chief, Euairidh
Mor, and sung his praises in poems of rousing energy and beauty. The
Macleods of Dunvegan had likewise a race of pipers, from time immemorial
— the MacCrimmons, who officiated in that capacity all along from sire to
son. They had for centuries their training college at Boreraig, near Dun-
vegan, where they communicated their masterly knowledge of bagpipe-
music to numerous pupils from all quarters of the kingdom. At the date
under review, Patric Mor MacCrimmon was piper to Euairidh Mor, for
whom he composed a salute, as celebrated for its melting pathos, as ever
were the poetic strains of Mairi Nigheau Alasdair Euaidh.
] Hmvegan Castle or fort is built upon an isolated, precipitous rock of
about two hundred feet in height. In olden times, tradition says, that
the sea surrounded it, by dashing through a dark narrow chasm that se-
parated the castle-rock from the land. On the opposite side, the sea was
deep, and capable of allowing boats or galleys of any size to sail to the
very base of the perpendicular precipice. There was no entrance of old
into tin' fiii-t but from the sea-side, and that was by a steep narrow stair
cut in the rock, and both difficult and dangerous to climb.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 235
In latter times this entrance ceased to be used, as it could not easily
be approached by sea, and a massive draw-bridge was thrown across the
chasm already alluded to. At a still more modern date, this chasm was
filled up with stones and rubbish, and a substantial roadway now leads to
the castle on the north side. "Within the quadrangle of this fortalice a
well was excavated in the solid rock to the depth of about t\vo hundred
feet, out of which an abundance of pure water could be drawn up to sup-
ply the fort. This well resembles that in Edinburgh Castle, and is still
open and frequently used. As already stated, Dunvegan Castle is to this
day inhabited by Macleod of Macleod, and a very romantic, yet comfort-
able residence it is. The walls of the great dining-hall in the old tower
are fourteen feet thick, and large parties may dine in the angular recesses
of the windows.
As the Castle is situate near the terminus of Loch Foillart, the anchor-
age close by it for large vessels is not at all times safe ; and the conse-
quence was, that ships of considerable size resorted to the adjacent har-
bour of Lochbay, where they might lie in safety in all weathers, under
the shelter of Isay Isle, and opposite to the village of Stein.
There are several relics of considerable interest in the ancient Castle
of Dunvegan to which a bare allusion may now be made. The principal
ones among these are Euairidh Mor's drinking-horn, .TSTiall Glundubh's
chalice, and the Saracen Fairy flag. Euairidh Mor's horn is immensely
large, and will contain five English pints of Mountain dew, or any less
powerful liquid. It is beautifully carved and chased, and mounted with
silver. The chalice or cup of Niall Glundubh is hollowed out of a block
of solid ebony, sits upon four pedestals of silver, and is splendidly mounted
with silver and precious stones. It bears the date of 991, and has an in-
scription on it in Latin. It is said to have been taken by one of the
Macleods from an Irish Chief, named Niall Glundubh. The Bratach-
Shith, or Fairy flag, is still carefully preserved, although much decayed
through age, and the pilfering of shreds of it by curious visitors. Tradi-
tion has it, that the flag was taken during the Crusades, from a Saracen
chief, and that it is possessed of various miraculous properties. The fate
and fortune of the Macleods depend upon this mystical flag, and it is the
palladium of their clan. These interesting relics have been alluded to by
Sir Walter Scott in his diary, and also in his notes to the Lord of the
Isles, and tourists and visitors may still inspect them, and many things
besides, if they pay a visit to the elevated hoary Castle of Dunvegau.
Mo Euairidh Mor, Mo Euairidh Mor !
Bithidh ceol is dain ann talladh 'n f hir f heill,
Deochan o chein, sitheann beinne,
Dreosach dhe'n cheir, is pioban 'gan gleus,
'S ann aros mo ruin cha bhi gainne !
Mo Ruairidh Mor, Mo Euairidh Mor !
236 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
THE KILT AND BONNET BLUE.
My harp I'll strike for Scotia brave,
Fair Freedom's loved abode ;
Proud are her sons, the foot of slave
Their heather never trode ;
Staunch loyalty, whate'er betide,
Their manly breasts imbue !
They love the bonnie tartan plaid,
The kilt, and bonnet blue.
The kilt, and bonnet blue, hurrah !
The kilt, and bonnet blue,
They love the Dannie tartan plaid,
The kilt, and bonuet blue.
There are across the stormy sea
More genial climes — what then ?
Their inuids are not so fair and free,
Nor jet as bold their men ;
For Scotia's sons, both far and wide,
High honour's path pursue,
Robed in the bonnie tartan plaid,
The kilt, and bonnet blue.
The kilt, and bonnet blue, hurrah !
The kilt, and bonnet blue,
Robed in the bonnie tartan plaid,
The kilt, and bonnet blue.
Our liberty was dearly bought —
Enthralling chains we spurn !
Remember how our fathers fought
And bled on Bannockburn !
A fame-wreath, ever to abide,
They bound — the gallant few ! — »
Round Freedom's brow, twined with the plaid,
The kilt, and bonnet blue.
The kilt, and bonnet blue, hurrah !
The kilt, and bonnet blue,
Round Freedom's brow, twined with the plaid,
The kilt, and bonnet blue.
If foemen, then, cross o'er the main,
And land upon our shore,
They'll come to be forced back again,
Or fall in battle's roar ;
"We'll belt the claymores to our sides,
That won famed Waterloo,
And conquer in our tartan plaids,
Oar kilts, and bonnets blue.
Our kilts, and bonnets blue, hurrah !
Our kilts, and bonnets blue,
And conquer in our tartan plaids,
Our kilts, and bonnets blue.
EDINBURGH. ALEXANDER LOGAN.
THE CELTIC MAGAZIKE. 237
literature.
THE ROSE AND THISTLE. Poems and Songs by WILLIAM ALLAN. London :
Siinpkin, Marshall, & Co.
THIS is a handsomely got-up, illustrated volume of four hundred pages, by
our friend and valued contributor, Mr William Allan, of Sunderland. It
is as unnecessary, as it would be out of place, to discuss Mr Allan's merits
as a poet in the Celtic Magazine. He has long ago established himself
as a great favourite with those of our readers who care for poetry that has
a sterling ring in it ; and a good many of his contributions to our pages
are included in the beautiful and attractive volume before us — "The Doom
of Dunolly," and "The Death of Ossian," forming the first 57 pages of
the book. An amount of domestic felicity is presented by the author in
the praises of his own " Jean," which is most agreeable and refreshing.
The following is only one of many genuine tributes of the same kind : —
LIGHTSOME JEAN.
Tichtsome, lichtsome, winsome Jeanie,
Smilin', wilin' ever ;
Genty, tenty, canty Jeanie,
Frownin', gloomin' never,
Frownin', gloomin' never.
Life's wee burdens a' are blessin's,
Sae I lo'e them aye to tease me ;
A' to pree the fond caressin's,
O' the heart that aye can please me ;
Frowns are foes unto her nature,
Loveless looks she canna thole,
Happiness wi' couthie feature
Owre the house maun hae control.
Tichtsome, lichtsome, winsome Jeanie,
Smilin', wilin' ever ;
Genty, tenty, canty Jeanie,
Frownin', gloomin' never,
Frownin', gloomin' never.
Ilka morn is aye affordin'
A' the joy that brings anither ;
Ilka day maun dee recordin',
A' our bliss unto its brither ;
Life wi' us has nocht o' rancour,
Hamely peace is a' we prize,
Trustin' to ae mutual anchor,
Earth to us is paradise.
The " Wee Toom Shoon," is truly touching. The sorrowing young mother
mourns for her departed child, draws a picture of "his bonnie curly
head," and " dark love-lowiu' e'e, his chubby cheeks of glowin' red, an' lips
sae sweet to me." She looks into the " wee toom shoon " worn by her
lost one, and pathetically exclaims. —
I see him aft in gowden dreams
Sweet cuddlin' doon to rest ;
His ae wee han' fu' aften seems
Still lyin' on my breast.
Ah me ! whan dawns the brichtest morn
Dark sorrow is my only boon j
I wake to feel he's frae me torn,
For death keeks oot frae the wee toom Bhoon—
His wee toom shooc.
238 THE CELTIC MAGAZIXE.
Though the reader is already so well acquainted with Mr Allan's poems,
as to make it superfluous to discuss his merits here, we may be permitted
to say that the late Dr Carruthcrs expressed his opinion to us when " The
Doom of Dunolly" was parsing through these pages, that nothing of e<[iial
merit of the same kind appeared since Sir Walter Scott wrote on kindred
themes. He afterwards expressed the same opinion to " Xether-Loch-
aber," and, if we correctly remember, did so also in the Inverness Courier.
This is a far higher tribute than any commendations of ours could be.
The illustrations are really good. The frontispiece is an excellent repre-
sentation of Duuolly Castle and Fingal's Stone. " Here, Hector fell."
While we are indisposed to say so much about the merits of the book as,
in other circumstances, we might have done, the reader may not be un-
willing to have a short review of the author himself. He recently paid
us a visit in Inverness, in connection with which he composed that sweet
little piece, " lie.st in the Fight," which appeared in the February number.
He is certainly a remarkable looking man for a poet, — a powerfully
built, herculean frame — such a one as we would imagine Vulcan himself to
be — considerably over six feet in height, with a fine open countenance
full of good-natured humour. He is a very store-house of information
on almost every subject, and the perfect impersonation of a true actor
and mimic relating his endless laughter-producing tales and personal
reminiscences.
Mr Allan has teen a good deal of the world ; was bred an engineer,
in which capacity he was employed during the late American War, in
one of the Southern blockade runners. He was ultimately captured, and
for a considerable time incarcerated in the old Capitol Prison of Washington.
After various vicissitudes, he was employed as foreman engineer in the North
Eastern Marine Engineering Company's Works at Sunderland, of which he
is now, and has been for several years past, the managing partner, having
over a thousand men under his charge, among whom are to be found
the sons of the first gentlemen in England. While engaged in this iron-
manner all day, he, as soon as the day's work is over, leaves the cares of
the world behind him ; goes home to enjoy the comforts of his fine
mansion, " Scotland House," which is nearly all carved into Scotch thistles
inside and out. He is seldom or ever found out of his literary corner of
an evening, surrounded by all the comforts a frugal, happy, Highland
wife, a hopeful family, and plenty of this world's goods, can procure, and
he knocks off a lyric every night almost with the same facility as he would
write a letter to a friend. In this manner Mr Allan has thrown oil' enough
for four volumes, already published, and much more besides which has
not yet seen the light. The reader will not be sorry, we feel sure, to
get this peep into the position and habits of their favourite bard, which
are, in every respect, as unlike those of most poets as they can well be ;
and we know that many of his friends only want to know that he has
published the volume before us to induce them at once to secure a work so
highly meritorious as a literary production, and which, at the same time,
exhibits such a delightful picture of domestic happiness and home com-
fort,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
239
I
A jf
ttO NIGHNEAG GHEAL
OG.
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ian • High nam maighdean, a
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dhaoimein nan seud
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tv 1* 1* 1*
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ainnir a's cuimir 'tha
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'g imeiichd an fheoir,
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'S tu 'n
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t nil li : - . t
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/ V V 7
t-ailleagan priseil mo
, :1, 1 d :- :d.d 1
, :1, I 1 :- :1 .1 t
: m | 8 : f : m i
nighneag gheal og.
, : a, : s, | s, : —
. : -.m : m | m : —
• : m : d | t, : —
:d.r m :-.f
: m I ra :-. m : r <
1 :-.!, ; 1, |1, : - II
Gur aoidheil, gur flathail, 's gvir maiseach do ghnuis
Do mhin-ghruaidh cho boidheach ri ros 'a e fo dhriuchd,
Gur daite na bileaa o 'm milis 'thig ceol,
'S do dheud mar an ibhri mo nighneag gheal og.
Gur mor 'tha ri leughadh 's an aodann a's ailt,
Thu tuigseach 'n ad chomhradh, gun mhor-chuis gun straichd,
Tha buaidhean ri innseadh le firinn gu leoir
'Hinn reul a measg mhiltean de m' nighneag gheal og.
'S i 'n ur-shlat 's a' choill thu, mo mhaighdean deas donn
Gun choire ri luaidh ort o d' chuailean gu d' bhonn,
Mar ubhal tha d'anail, bias meal' air do phoig
'S do bhriathran Ian millseachd mo nighneag gheal og.
Mar anail nan ainglean 's na speuran a' snamh
Bi neoil gheal an t-samhraidh mu 'n ghrein anns an aird,
'S e sud an t aon choimeas a bheir mi le deoin
Do d' bhraighe caoin min-sa mo nighneag gheal og.
'S tu 'n euchdag dheas, donn, thogadh fonn air mo chridh
Le misneach do naduir, 's do mhannranaich bhinn,
'S 'n uuir dhisgte piano, gu h-ard le d' chaol mheoir
Bhiodh ra' acaiu air di-chuimhn' mo nighneag ghea og.
240 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Gur buidhe g' ad leannan O ainnir nara buadh !
Gur boidheach do mhala, seimh banail gun ghruaim,
Gur iomadh duin' uasal gu d' bhuannachd tha 'n toir,
'S gur lion tha 'cur pris air mo nigbneag gheal og.
Gur buidhe g' ad leannan o ainnir an nigh
'N uair gheibh e gu deonach uait coir air do laimb,
Gur fearr dha le cinnt na ged sgriobhte dha or
'Bhi 'g eisdeachd do bhriodail mo nighneag gheal og.
Gur binne na coin learn an doire nan cuach
Fonn oran o d' bhilean mar shirisd nan bruach,
'S do ckeum tha cho eutrom air reidhlean an fheoir
Hi eilid na fridhe mo nighneag gheal og.
O ciamar a chuirinn do mhaise an ceill
No buaidhean do naduir ged 's ard duit mo speis ?
Cha ruig air do sgiamh mi le briathran mo bheoil
'S cha 'n urrain mi 'n sgriobhadh mo nighneag gheal og.
Mo shoraidh 's mo bheannachd dhuit ainnir nam beus,
Am meangan a's cubhraidh tha 'n dlu choill' nan geug
Ge b'e co ni do bhuain gheibh e duais a bhios mor
'S tu 'm beartas 'a an iochd-shlaint mo nighneag gheal og.
NOTE. — The above verses— Mo Nighneag Gheal Og— are the composition of Mrs Mary
Mackellar. To the Gaelic reader it is needless to speak of their great beauty ; and any
endeavour to convey an idea of that beauty to one not conversant with Gaelic would
ail. Suffice it to say that they fully sustain Mrs Mackellar's reputation as a
Gaelic Banabhard. The air is well known to Highlanders and Lowlanders, and needs
no comment here. "W. M'K.
DE SMITH'S GAELIC PROPHETS.— We have much pleasure
in calling attention to an intimation on another page, that the Ecv. Dr
John Smith's Gaelic Prophets are about to be reprinted by, and under
the supervision of, the Eev. Donald Masson, M.A., M.D., of the Gaelic
Church, Edinburgh, whose interesting and valuable articles on "Our
Gaelic Bible," and now passing through this Magazine, are giving so much
satisfaction to our readers. Dr Masson deserves to be supported and
relieved of any risk in his plucky and patriotic venture, by an early and
large subscription list. It will be seen that the edition is to bo strictly
limited.
THE CLAN GTJNN.— A series of articles on this old Highland Clan,
by a gentleman who has devoted years of research to the subject, will be
commenced in an early number.
HIGHLAND AND ISLAND SCENEEY.— The first article on
this subject, by the Eev. Alexander Macgregor, M.A., Avill appear in our
next.
THE
CELTIC MAGAZINE.
No. XLIIL MAY, 1879. VOL. IV.
HIGHLAND AND ISLAND SCENEKY.
BY THE KEY. ALEX. MACGREGOR, M.A.
I.
SCOTLAND has been called the land of mountain and flood, and no
land more richly merits the name. It is the land of wild, blooming
heather, and of the tangled wilderness of hill and dale, formed in all the
prodigality of natural beauty. It is the region of " mountains, and of
glens, and of heroes," which, if taken all in all, has no parallel perhaps in
all the regions of the globe. In no other country does nature exhibit
herself in more various forms of sublimity and grandeur than in the
Highlands of Scotland.
But here it is my intention merely to make rapid allusion to some of
the most prominent features of our dearly beloved country, and to its
scenery in general — its mountains and lakes, its glens and dales, its
rivers and waterfalls — and then J shall ask the reader to follow me, to
the remarkable formation of nature in the scenery of Skye, and others
of the Hebride Isles.
The county of Ayr, with its Celtic topography, constitutes a large
part of the "Western coast of Scotland, and may appropriately be noticed
in a paper like this. Forming one large inclined plain towards the sea,
it is intersected in its breadth by several rivers, such as the Irvine, the
Ayr, and the Boon, all of which are rich in poetical association. This
county is rendered memorable by the defeat of the Norwegians at Largs
in their last invasion of this country, made in the year 1263, with a fleet
of 160 sail, and an army of 20,000 men, commanded by Haco, King of
Norway. His ravages on the coasts of Ayr, Bute, and Arran, arrested
the attention of the Scottish Court, when an army was immediately as-
sembled by Alexander III., and a bloody engagement took place at the
village of Largs, where 16,000 of the invaders were slain in battle. Haco
escaped to the Orkneys, where ho soon after died of grief. The entrench-
ments of the Norwegian camp may still be traced along the shore of this
place, and the burial-place of the Scottish commanders who fell in battle
is on a rising field near the village, still marked out by a few large stones.
But this county is rendered nothing less memorable, as the birth-place of
the immortal Burns. The poet was born in a clay-built, thatched cottage
U
242 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
on the high-way which leads from Ayr to tin; south, and about two miles
and a-halt' from that town. There may still bo seen the small farm occu-
pied by the pott's father, and near it are the ruins ot Alloway Kirk,
formerly a parochial place of worship. The road, immediately after
pas.-ing the cottage and the mined church, crosses the Doon by a modern
bridge of one arch, and at the distance of a hundred yards further up the
river, is the " Auld Brig," so noted in the tale of "Tarn O'Shanti-r."
Alloway Kirk, with its little inclosed burial-ground, well merits the
traveller's attention. It has long been roofless, but the walls are well
preserved, and it still retains its bell at the east end. But, upon the
whole, the spectator is struck with the idea, that the witches must have
had a rather narrow stage for the performance of their revels, as described
in the poem ! The " winnock bunker in the east," where sat the awful
musician, is still a conspicuous feature, being a small window divided by
a thick mullion. Upon a field about a quarter of a mile to the north-
west of the kirk, is a single tree inclosed with a paling, the last remnant
of a group which covered—-
The cairn,
Whar hunters fand the murder'd bairn —
And immediately beyond that is —
The ford,
Whar in the snaw the chapman smoored.
These are two spots which Tarn O'Shanter is said to have passed on his
solitary way. Close to this is the thorn on the wayside, at the place
where " Mungo's mother " committed suicide. It is surprising with what
interest these localities are visited by the admirers of Burns and of the
poem of Tam O'Shanter. The Auld Brig o' Doon, which is approached
by a steep way, forming Tarn's line of inarch when pursued by the
witches, is a fine old arch, which is still kept in excellent order. About
forty years ago the parapets had suffered considerable injury, when the
Eev. Mr Paul of Broughton, author of a Life of Burns, wrote a poetical
petition for the " Auld Brig " to the Eoad Trustees, to obtain means for
repairing it. The petition ran as follows : —
Unto the Honourable the Trustees of the Koads, in the County of Ayr, the petition
and complaint of the Auld Brig o' Doon. —
Must I, like modern fabrics of a day,
Decline, unwept, the victim of decay ?
Shall my bold arch, that proudly stretches o'er
Doon's classic stream, from Kyles to Carrick's shore,
Be suffer'd in oblivion's gulph to fall,
And hurl to wreck my venerable wall ?
Forbid it ! every tutelary power !
That guards my Keystane at the midnight hour.
Forbid it ! ye who charna'd by Burns's lay,
Amid these scenes can linger out the day !
Let Nannie's sark, and Maggie's mangled tail,
Plead iu my cause, and in that cause prevail.
The man of taste, who comes my form to see,
And curious asks, but asks in vain, for me,
With tears of sorrow will my fate deplore,
When he is told—" The Auld Brig is no more."
Stop then, O stop — the more than vandal rage,
That marks this revolutionary age ;
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
And bid the structure of your father's last,
The pride of this, the boast of ages past ;
Nor ever let your children's children tell
By your decree the ancient fabric fell.
May it therefore please your honours to consider this petition, and grant such, sum
as you may think proper for repairing, and keeping up the Auld Brig o' DOOD.
But we must take leave of the pretty classic scenes of Ayr, and take
a cursory glance at other parts of the country, We will make brief men-
tion of a few of the most prominent objects that meet us on the way, such
as the highest hills, the most beautiful lakes, the principal Avaterfalls, and
such other localities as are worthy of the tourist's admiration. The Isles
of Bute and Arran, Ailsa Craig, and the romantic Kyles of Bute, have
all of them their features of beauty and interest. The ancient Castle of
Dumbarton, a strong fortress, crowns a lofty and precipitous rock which
rises from a plain at the conflux of the Clyde and Leven. On the top
of this remarkable rock are several batteries, the Governor's residence, the
barracks, and, store houses. In the days of the venerable Bede, it was
considered impregnable, but was reduced by famine in 756. This
fortress was long looked upon as the key to the West Highlands, It
stood many sieges, but during a thick fog in April 1571, it was surprised
and taken by escalade, when held by the adherents of Queen Mary.
The Scottish lakes, of which many are very picturesque, are nearly one
hundred in number. Of these, until of late, not a few were seldom or
ever visited and little heard of, while others were quite a " terra incognita"
to tourists. By the extension of railways, particularly our Highland system,
as well as by D. Hutcheson's magnificent fleet of steamers, thousands have
an opportunity of becoming better acquainted with a country posessing an
inexhaustible variety of lake scenery, as well as hundreds of other objects
of the most attractive and romantic interest. " A country thus consti-
tuted," says an eminent writer (Wilson), " and with such an aspect, even
if we could suppose it without lochs, would still be a glorious region ;
but its lochs are indeed its greatest glory. By them its glens, its moun-
tains, and its woods, are all illuminated, and its rivers made to sing aloud
for joy. In the pure element, overflowing so many spacious vales, and
glens profound, the great and stern objects of nature look even more sub-
lime, or more beautiful in their reflected shadows, which appear in that
stillness to belong rather to heaven than earth ! Such visions, when
gazed on, in that wonderous depth and purity which they are sometimes
seen to assume on a still summer day, always inspire some such faint feel-
ing as this; and we sigh to think how transitory must be all things,
when the setting sun is seen to sink beneath the mountains, and all its
golden splendour at the same instant to vanish from the lake."
The first that takes possession of the imagination, speaking of the
Highlands as the region of lochs, is the Queen of them all, Loch Lomond.
Among the many points from which a general view of the lake can
be obtained, the best perhaps is from the top of " Mount Misery,"
a little hill near its southern extremity, and about three miles above
Balloch, Here, lopking northward, towards the head of the lake,
it is beheld in its greatest breadth, stretched out like a scroll beneath the
feet. A variety of beautiful islands are interspersed over its surface, and
244 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
on its eastern and western banks are seen different ranges of hills, which,
• seeming to meet towards the north, shut up the prospect, and mingle
their hold and broken outlines with the sky. Nor can it be forgotten,
that within a few miles of this locality, Smollet, the novelist, Buchanan,
the historian, and Napier, the inventor of logarithms, first saw the light
of day, each of whom has, in his own way, added a lustre to the litera-
tuie and science of Scotland. Smollet was born on the banks of the
Leven, Buchanan on the banks of the Blane, and Napier was born at
Garlics, near the river Endrick. The lake is guarded by mountains
around, and as they recede, they become more and more majestic, yet
their beauty never deserts them, and her spirit continues to tame the
•wildness of the growing cliffs. Far off as they are, Ben-Lomond and
Benvoirlich are seen to be giants, each magnificent in his own dominion,
and clear as the day may be, both are diademed with clouds.
The next, perhaps, in point of magnificence is Loch-Katrine. It is
impossible for the imagination to conceive a succession of scenery more
sublime and imposing than is displayed around this splendid lake.
Nature seems to have assumed her wildest and most romantic aspect.
Mountains, precipices, and lofty rocks appear as if thrown around in the
rudest form, while trees and shrubs give variety and grace to the land-
scape. It forms the receptacle for hundreds of rivulets and streams, that
tumble down into it, " white as the snowy charger's tail."
The scenery of Loch-Katrine was but comparatively little known
until the publication of the "Lady of the Lake," by the great " Unknown,"
but the splendid descriptions of that exquisite poem soon spread its fame
wherever the English language is understood. The Trossachs form the
chief point of attraction Avith strangers visiting Loch-Katrine. " This
portion of the scenery," says the Minister of Callander, " beggars all des-
cription." Such an assemblage is there, of wildness, and of rude grandeur,
as fills the mind with the most sublime conceptions. It seems as if a
whole mountain had been torn in pieces, and frittered down by a convulsion
of the earth ; and the huge fragments of rocks, and woods, and hills, lie
scattered in confusion at the east end of the loch. Ben-Venue rises ma-
jestically from the side of the lake to the height of 3000 feet, and is con-
sidered to be one of the most picturesque mountains in the Kingdom.
The celebrated and well-known "Cor-nan-Uriskin," or Cave of the Goblins,
rendered venerable from Highland tradition and superstition, is situated
at the base of Ben- Venue, where it overhangs the lake in solemn grandeur.
It is a deep circular hollow in the mountain, about GOO yards in diameter
at the top, but narrowing towards the bottom, surrounded on all sides by
stupendous rocks, and overshadowed with birch trees, which render it
impenetrable to the rays of the sun. It is a horrible spot, which affords
ample shelter — if not to fairies and hobgoblins— assuredly so to foxes,
wild cats, and badgers !
The " Urisks," from whom this cave derives its name, were supposed
to be dispersed over the Highlands, each in his own wild recess, but the
solemn stated meetings, or general assemblies of the order, were regularly
held in this fearful den. These beings were, according to Dr Graham, a
sort of Inbberly supernatural, who, like the Brownies, might be gained over
by kind attention, to perform the drudgery of the farm. Sir Walter Scott
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 245
says that " tradition has ascribed to the ' Urisks ' a figure between a goat
and a man, in short, however much the classical reader may be startled,
precisely that of the Grecian Satyr." Further up the mountain than
Cor-nan-Uriskin is " Beallach nain b6," a magnificent pass across the
northern shoulder of the mountain. The imagination, lost in astonish-
ment, is apt to conceive it as an avenue leading from our lower world to
another and a higher sphere !
When passing through the narrow defile of the Trossachs, the spot is
seen where Fitz- James's horse exhausted fell, as also " the narrow and
broken plain," at the eastern opening, where Sir Walter supposes the
Scottish troops, under the Earls of Mar and Moray, to have paused ere
they entered that dark and dangerous glen, nor will the vivid description
of the scene which took place, when the archers entered the defile, be
ever forgotten. JS~o trace of a foe could at first be seen, but all at once,
There rose so wild a yell,
Within that dark and narrow dell ;
As all the fiends from heaven that fell,
Had peal'd the banner-cry of h — 11.
Forth from the pass in tumult driven,
Like chaff before the wind of heaven
The archery appear ;
For life ! for life ! their flight they ply,
And shriek, and shout, and battle-cry,
And plaids, and bonnets waving high,
And broadswords flashing in the sky,
Are maddening in the rear.
Onward they drive in dreadful race,
Pursuers and pursued.
Although this is merely a description of an imaginary fight between the
Scottish troops and the men of Clan Alpine, yet, by the Wizard's wand,
it has become so familiar to every reading mind as almost to be considered
the account of a real transaction. And we believe that few pass now
through the Trossachs without thinking of Eoderick Dubh and his Mac-
gregors. But there is little reason to doubt that many such encounters
have in reality taken place. This formed one of the passes from the
Lowlands to the Highlands, and it was in such places that the indomitable
Highlanders usually made their stand against what they of all things
abhorred, Saxon men, their laws, and their government.
There are several other lakes and localities of interest in this quarter,
upon which we cannot at present enlarge. On our way JS"orth we shall
accompany the reader through the celebrated Pass of Killiecrankie, in
Athole, near the junction of the Tumrnel with the Garry. It is formed
by the lofty mountains overhanging the Garry, which rushes below in a
dark, deep, rocky channel, forming a scene of exquisite grandeur. This
was formerly a pass of great difficulty and danger, a path hanging over a
tremendous precipice that threatened instant destruction to the least false
step of the traveller. Eventually a good road was formed to give access
to the Highlands, and the two sides of the defile wc.re joined !>v -\ s ib-
stantial bridge. More recently the Highland K,iil\va\ Uomp n
constructed a substantial railway through the pass. On a held ovo the
pass, called " Raon-Kuairidh," was fought the celebrated battle of Killie-
crankie in 1689, between the adherents of James II., under Viscount
Dundee, and those of William III., under General Mack ay, wherein the
246 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Viscount fell, and with him the hopes of the House of Stewart. It was
a dreadful place for a battle. The slain on both sides lay in heaps in the
swollen pools and eddies of the Garry. It is said that in the morning
after the battle, a number of the native Highlanders went with pok-.s to
push the dead bodies of the Southerns down the stream, and were en-
couraged in their ghastly work by an aged female standing on the pinna-
cle of a rock, and crying out with, all her might " Sios leis na coin, sios
iad, sios iad, dh' ionnsuidh an cuideachd fein " — " Down with the dogs,
down with them, down with them, to their own people."
As we pass along, the mountain of Lochnagar, which towers proudly
pre-eminent over Her Majesty's Castle at Balmoral, may be noticed. It
is certainly one of the most sublime and picturesque amongst our " Cale-
donian Alps." Its appearance is of a dusky hue, and it overhangs a deep,
dark lake, called " Loch Muick," at the east end of which Her Majesty
has built a large, comfortable shiel, or summer-house, which she often
frequents. Lord Byron spent some of the early part of his life near this
romantic mountain, the recollection of which caused him to commemorate
his visit by a beautiful song, in the following strains : —
Away, ye gay landscapes, ye gardens of roses !
In you let the mirions of luxury rove ;
Restore me the rocks, where the snow-flake reposes,
Though still they are sacred to freedom and love ;
Yet, Caledonia, beloved are thy mountains,
Bound their white summits tbough elements war ;
Though cataracts foam 'stead of smooth-flowing fountains,
I sigh for the valley of dark Lochnagar.
Ah ! there my young footsteps in infancy wander'd ;
My cap was the bonnet, my cloak was the plaid ;
On chieftains long perish'd my memory ponder'd,
As daily I strode through the pine-cover'd glade.
I sought not my home till the day's dying glory
Gave place to the rays of the bright polar star ;
For fancy was cheer'd by traditional story,
Disclosed by the natives of dark Lochnagar.
Shades of the dead ! have I not heard your voices
Rise on the night-rolling breath of the gale?
Surely the soul of the hero rejoices,
And rides on the wind o'er his own Highland vale.
Round Lochnagar while the stormy mist gathers,
Winter presides in his cold icy car ;
Clouds there encircle the forms of my fathers ;
They dwell in the tempests of dark Lochnagar.
Ill-starr'd, though brave, did no visions forboding
Tell you that fate had forsaken your cause ?
Ah ! were you destined to die at Culloden,
Victory crown'd not your fall with applause ;
Still were you happy in death's earthly slumber.
You rest with your clan in the caves of Braemar ;
The pibroch resounds, to the piper's loud number,
Your deeds on the echoes of dark Lochnagar.
Years have roll'd on, Lochnagar, since I left you,
Years must elapse ere I tread you again ;
Nature of verdure and flowers has bereft you
Yet still are you dearer than Albion's plain.
England ! thy beauties are tame and domestic
To one who has roved o'er the mountains afar ;
Oh ! for the crags that are wild and maj«stic !
The steep frowning glories of dark Lochnagar.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Of waterfalls there are hundreds of a larger and lesser degree over the
length and breadth of our land, but it has been said that the Fall of
Foyers, near Inverness, is the most magnificent cataract, out of sight in.
Britain. The din of it is quite loud enough in ordinary weather to be
heard for miles distant, and it is only in ordinary weather that any one
can safely approach the place, from which a full view of its grandeur is
obtained. When the fall is in flood, to say nothing of being drenched to
the skin, you are so blinded by the sharp spray-smoke, and so deafened
by the dashing and clashing, and tumbling and rumbling thunder, that
your condition is far from enviable, as you cling, " lonely lover of nature,"
to a shelf by no means eminent for safety, above the horrid gulf. In
short, it is worth walking 100 miles to behold the Fall of Foyers.
But of all the places in Scotland, there is none perhaps, where the
mind can be more impressed with a variety of feelings, than when visiting
that dreadful glen — " Glencoe ! " The memory reflects at once on the
desperately bloody and diabolical plot that was transacted there, the
greatest, the cruelest, and the most inhuman that ever stained the page of
history. At five o'clock in the morning of 13th February 1692, the
storm howled from cliff to cliff, the snow drifted furiously over the
shelving slopes of these barren hills, and the wreaths settled deeply in
the tractless valley below. The Cona flowed sluggishly on, impeded
in its rugged course by the accumulating snow. The soldiers, like as
many fiends of darkness, lay concealed, and under such shelter as they
could procure. They were under the command of the perfidious Captain
Robert Campbell of Glenlyon and others, and at the instigation of Dal-
rymple of Stair, Breadalbane, King William, and their confederates, went
unto the Glen some days before, and, with murderous intent, concealed
and sheltered themselves that night in caves and crevices of the rocks,
until the appointed hour. M'lan, the aged chief, was fast in his slumbers,
after having treated the officers with Highland hospitality the evening
before. At length the stipulated moment for destruction and murder had
arrived, the command was given, and the deadly onset was made simul-
taneously in the different hamlets of the glen. Captain Campbell, with
a heart full of Satanic treachery, and with a barbarity which has few
parallels in the annals of cruelty, undertook to murder his own hospitable
landlord, the aged M'lan. Having obtained admission into the house,
the venerable chieftain was, of course, still in bed at that dark and dismal
hour, and while in the act of rising, to entertain, as he intended, his
bloody visitors, he was basely fired at by two of the soldiers, and he fell
lifeless into the arms of his wife. We cannot dwell on this scene.
There was no house in the glen in which there were less than one or two
murdered, and in some all. Women and children who had escaped the
bayonets and lead of these inhuman monsters, fled to the rugged hills,
where many of them died in the storm. It was a dreadful morning.
Imagination still fancies that the gloomy atmosphere of that wild region is
tainted with gunpowder smell, and that the moans of the innocent dying
victims are still wafted upon the cold breezes of that dismal glen.
General Stewart, in his sketches, states in regard to the late Colonel
Campbell of Glenlyon, that he was an officer of the 42d Regiment, and
grandson of the Captain Campbell who commanded the military at
248 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Glencoe. In 1771 Colonel Campbell was ordered to execute the sentence
of a court martial on a soldier condemned to he shot. A reprieve was
procured, but the whole ceremony of the execution was to proceed until
the criminal was upon his knees, with a cap over his eyes, prepared to
receive the volley. It was then that he was to be informed of his pardon,
and no one was to be told of it previously, not even the firing party,
whose signal to fire was the waving of a white handkerchief by the com-
manding officer. When all was ready, and the firing party were looking
with eager eyes for the signal, Colonel Campbell put his hand into his
pocket for the reprieve, and on pulling it out, the white handkerchief
accompanied it, and catching the eyes of the party, they fired, when alas !
the unfortunate prisoner was shot dead. Colonel Campbell, in deep
agony, clapped his hand on his forehead, and exclaimed, " The curse of
God and of Glencoe is here, I am an unfortunate, ruined man !" He
instantly quitted the parade, and in a few days retired from the service.
"We will not enlarge upon the beautiful Loch-Ness, guarded as it is by
its mountains on either side, forming the Great Glen, of which the rotund
" Meall-fuar-mhonaidh " is not the least conspicuous. The hills of Mona-
liath, Strathnairn, Stratherrick, Glen-Uiquhart, LTrquhart Castle, Duncan,
and the vitrified Craig-Phadrig, are all objects of much interest and.
historic research. And where can be found more picturesque scenery
than in Strathglass, Glenaffric, Strathfarrar, Falls of Kilmorack, and all
along to the mountains and lochs of Morar, Glennevis, Glenelg, Kintail,
and Lochalsh ? The Skye railway has opened up landscapes in its course,
that are a marvel to the tourist as ho speeds along from Dingwall to
Strome.
The most celebrated of all our Northern lakes is Loch-Maree, a noble
sheet of water, about twenty miles long, and from three to four in breadth.
The mountains around it are of great height, and of a beautifully charac-
terised and irregular outline. It is ornamented by twenty-seven islands
of varied size and appearance. In a calm summer evening at sunset the
lake has an enchanting appearance. The lofty mountains, at their summit,
are tinged with golden rays, while in the hollows, nearer their base, they
are wreathed in mist, and light-floating clouds. It is a scene of enchant-
ment never to be forgotten. The white piqued summits of the File
mountain sparkle like the spires and turrets of an emerald palace, the
work of an Eastern magician, or of the Genii of Arabian romance, all
forming a splendid contrast to the dark and rugged " Sle"ugach,"* which
towers aloft from the opposite side of the lake.
Having thus taken a rapid glance at some of the most prominent
sights and scenes in Scotland, from south to north, we now proceed to
change the arena of our sketch. We bid farewell to the romantic land
of heroes — that land of mountain and of flood, of tradition and of song,
of daring deeds and of warm-hearted hospitality, and ask the reader in our
next to accompany us to the Isles, where we shall see before us many
specimens of natural scenery in its wildest and most fantastic forms. In
the far-famed Isle of Skye we shall find all but inexhaustible examples
of all that is great and grand in the workmanship of nature.
(To be Continued.)
*Sliabhach=Slioch.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 249
HISTORY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE.
BY THE EDITOR.
[CONTINUED. |
-o-
THE MACKENZIES OF HILTON.
I. DUNCAN MACKENZIE, first of Hilton, and second son of Alexander
" lonraic," sixth Baron of Kin tail, by his first marriage with Anna Macdougal
of Dunolly, was designated by the title of the barony of Hilton, in
Strathbran, bounded on the north by Loch Fannich, on the south by
the ridge of the northern hills of Strathconan, on the east by Ach-nan-
Allt, and on the west by Ledgowan. A part of this barony lay in
Redcastle. He married a daughter of Ewen Cameron, XII. Baron of
Lochiel, and by her had one son, Allan, from whom the lineal suc-
cession of the family of Hilton runs as follows : —
II. ALLAN MACKENZIE (after whom this branch of the Mackenzies was
called the " Clann Allan ") married a daughter of Alexander Dunbar of
Conzie and Kilbuiack, third son of the Sheriff of Moray. She afterwards,
on his death, married Kenneth, first of the barony of Allan, second law-
ful son of Hector Eoy, first Baron of Gairloch. By her Allan of Hilton
had two sons —
1. Murdo, his heir.
2. John, ancestor of the Mackenzies of Loggie. [See genealogy of
this family.]
He was succeeded by his eldest son,
III. MURDOCH MACKENZIE, who married a daughter of Innes of Inver-
breakie, and by her had one son,
IV. JOHN MACKENZIE, who married Margaret, daughter of Dunbar of
Inchbrock, and by her had two sons and two daughters —
1. Murdoch, his heir.
2. Colin, who, being educated at the University of Aberdeen, where
he received his degree of Master of Arts, applied himself to theology, and
became minister of Killearnan, in which station he died. He married a
lady of the name of Dundas, by whom he had several children, and of
whom was descended Kenneth Mackenzie, well known as deacon of the
goldsmiths in Edinburgh.
3. His eldest daughter married John Sinclair, a Caithness gentleman.
4. His second daughter married John Matheson, Lochalsh, father to
Farquhar Matheson, Fernaig, whose son John Matheson, first of Attadale,
was the progenitor of Alexander Matheson, now of Ardross and Lochalsh.
John was succeeded by his eldest son,
V. MURDOCH MACKENZIE, who married Mary, eldest daughter of
Murdoch Murchison of Auchtertyre, minister of Kintail, and by her had
five children —
1. Alexander, his heir.
2. Roderick, married the eldest daughter of Alexander, thud son of
250 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Mimlo Mackenzie, second of Redcastle, by whom lie had a son, Colin,
who died unmarried in 1682.
3. Colin, married Isobel, daughter of Donald Simson, Chamberlain of
Ferintosh, and by her had two sons, Alexander and Roderick, whose
lineal succession will be particularly detailed hereafter, when it has to be
shown how the grandson of Roderick came to carry on the main line as
XI. of Hilton. He also, had one natural son.
4. Murdoch, married Agnes Helen, daughter of Donald Taylor, one of
the Bailies of Inverness (1665), and by her had a son and daughter.
His son Alexander entered young into the service of Kenneth, Earl of
Seaforth, and in the year 1709 was made one of the chamberlains to
AVilliam, Earl of Seaforth. He married, in 1709, Katherine, daughter of
the Viscount of Stormont, by whom he had several children, whose
succession is unknown. The daughter, Jean, married Hector Mackenzie,
and by him had a son, Kenneth (a Jesuit in Spain, who died without
issue), and several daughters.
5. Isobel, married Donald Macrae, minister of Kintail.
Murdoch was succeeded by his eldest son,
VI. ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, who was twice married : first, to
Aunabella, second daughter of John Mackenzie, I. of Ord, without issue ;
secondly, to Sibella, eldest daughter of Roderick Mackenzie, I. of Apple-
cross. She was previously married to Alexander Macleod of Raasay,
and also to Thomas Graham of Drynie. By her he had one son and
successor,
VII. EVAN MACKENZIE, who married Elizabeth, daughter of Colin
Mackenzie, IV. of Redcastle, and by her had two sons and one daughter —
1. John, his heir.
2. Colin, who after John carried on the line as IX. of Hilton.
3. Florence, who married Alexander Macrae, son of Donald Macrae,
minister of Kintail.
He was succeeded by his eldest son,
VIII. JOHN MACKENZIE, who married a daughter of Thomas Mackenzie,
IV. of Ore], by Mary, fourth daughter of John Mackenzie, III. of Apple-
cross. He joined the Earl of Mar in 1715, and was killed in the
Chevalier's service at Sheritfmuir, where he commanded a company of the
Mackenzies. Having no issue, he was succeeded by his next brother,
IX. COLIN MACKENZIE, who married Catherine, daughter of Christo-
pher Macrae of Arrinhugair. He matriculated himself in the Lyon
Herald's office, and received for his armorial bearing, AZURE, a hart's head
caboss'd, and attired OR, a Highland dirk, shafted gules between the atter-
ings for difference. Above the shield a helmet befitting his degree, with
a mantle gules doubling argent and a wreath of his colours is set. For
his crest, two hands holding a two-handed sword in bend proper. He
died in 1756, aged 65 years, leaving two sons and one daughter —
1. John, who married Helen, daughter of Roderick Mackenzie, VII. of
Fairburn. He had no issue, and pre-deceased his father in 1751.
2. Alexander, who succeeded his father.
3. A daughter, married to John Macdonell, XIII. of Glengarry.
He was succeeded by his eldest surviving son,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 251
X. ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, who married Mary, daughter of George
Mackenzie, II. of Gruinard. He died without legitimate issue, but left
a natural sou, Alexander, well known and still kindly spoken of as
" Alastair Mor Mac Fhir Bhaile Chnuc," or " Big Alexander, son of the
Laird of Hilton." He was Seaforth's principal and most successful re-
cruiting sergeant when raising the 78th Highlanders, and many curious
stories are still related of Alastair Mor's generally successful efforts to
procure willing, and sometimes hesitating, recruits for the regiment of his
chief, Alexander married Annabella Mackenzie, who long outlived him,
and was well known and highly respected for many years as " Banntrach
an t-Shearsan," in Strath bran. Alastair was always a conspicuous figure
at the Ross-shire markets, where his popularity and address secured many
a recruit for the famous " Buffs." Many of his descendants, in the third
generation, occupy responsible positions throughout the country.
He was succeeded in the estates and barony by the heir of line (next
of male kin), Alexander Mackenzie, great-grandson of Colin, third son of
Murdoch Mackenzie, V. of Hilton.
The male line of Alexander Mackenzie, the sixth baron, having be-
come extinct, the heir and representative was sought for among the issue
of his brothers. The next brother was Roderick, who, as already shown,
left one son, Colin, who, in 1682, died without issue. The next was Colin,
who, by Isobel Simson, his wife, left two sons —
1. Alexander (Sanders), who became chamberlain to Culloden. He
married Helen, daughter of William Munro of Ardullie, and by her had
two sons and two daughters — (1) Colin, who died unmarried, but left a
natural son, Alexander, from whom are several respectable families in
Ferrintosh. (2) Donald, who married Jean, daughter of Thomas Forbes
of Raddery, and of the Fortrose lands as far as Ethie, His burying-
ground was within the Fortrose Cathedral, on the western gable of
which is a tablet in his memory, erected by Helen Stewart his wife. By
her he had one son, Alexander, drowned with his father in 1759
when fording the Conon opposite Dingwall, and then — the son being
unmarried — perished the legitimate male succession of his paternal
grandfather, Alexander. Donald had also several daughters — (1) Mary,
married Colin Mackenzie, minister of Fodderty, and first of the family
of Glack. She was with her father, but was saved Avhen he was drowned,
proceeding to visit her mother who was at the time ill ; (2) Jean, married
Colin Murchison ; (3) Isobel, married David Ross ; (4) another married
Mr Mackenzie of Ussie, and had two sons, Donald and Frank ; (5) Anne,
married Lewis Grant ; and (6) Helen, married Alexander Mackenzie of
Ardnagrask, afterwards at Logic-side, from whose son, Bailie John. Mac-
kenzie of Inverness, are numerous descendants. Alexander's (Sanders)
eldest daughter, Mary, married Donald Murchison, son of John Murchison
of Auchtertyre; the second, Elizabeth, married William Martin of Inch f lire,
whose daughter, Annie, was celebrated for her beauty, and married Norman,
XVIII. Baron of Macleod.
,;.y!j 2. Roderick, who in wadset acquired Brea in Ferintosh, which remained
in the family for two generations. By marriage he acquired the ruined
castle of Dingwall (the ancient residence of the Earls of Ross) and its
lands, as also the lands of Longcroft. He was called Mr Rory Mackenzie
252 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
of Brea, and married Una (Winifred), daughter of John Cameron, town-
clerk of Dingwall, by whom he had three sons — (1) John Mackenzie of
Brea, called, "John the Laird," who married in 1759, Beatrix, daughter
of Alexander Mackenzie, eighth of Davochmaluak, by Magdalen, daughter
of Hugh Rose, XIII. of Kilmvock, and by her had seven sons and four
daughters. He resided at Tarradale. The sons were Eorie, died un-
married ; Alexander, who succeeded as XL of Hilton, and of whom here-
after ; Kenneth of Inverinate, who married Anne, daughter of Thomas
Mackenzie, IV. of Highfield, and VII. of Applecross (by a daughter
of Mackenzie, V. of Kilcoy) by whom he had two sons and six daugh-
ters— Thomas, who succeeded as X. OF APPLECROSS [see Geiicalo^y
of that Family] ; Alexander, who married Harriet, daughter of Newton of
Curriehill, by whom he had four children — Kenneth, 'died unmarried ;
Alexander, a lieutenant in the Eoyal Engineers, died unmarried ; Marion,
married Charles Holmes, barrister, without issue ; Harriet, unmarried.
Kenneth's six daughters were — Jane, died unmarried ; Elizabeth, married
her cousin, Colonel John Mackenzie, XII. of Hilton; Flora, married Rev.
Charles Downie ; Catherine, Mary, and JoKanna, died unmarried.
The other sons and the daughters of " John the Laird " were — Colin,
"the Baron," born at Tarradale, 3d December 1759, died unmarried;
Peter, died unmarried ; Duncan, married Jessie Mackenzie, daughter of
Mackenzie of Strathgarve, without issue ; Arthur died unmarried ; Mag-
dalen, died unmarried ; Marcella (Medley), married the Rev. Dr Downie ;
Anne, died unmarried; Mary, married, in 1790, the Rev. Donald Mac-
kenzie, minister of Fodderty ; Elizabeth, died unmarried.
Roderick's second son was (2) Colin Mackenzie, minister of Fodderty,
first of the family of Glack [see Glack Genealogy] ; his third was (3) Peter
Mackenzie, M.D., a surgeon-general of the Army, and a knight of Nova
Scotia — died unmarried.
Alexander was succeeded by
XL ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, second son of John Mackenzie of Brea,
already shown to be the great-grandson of Colin, third son of the V.
Baron of Hilton, and his heir of line, who succeeded as XL of Hilton.
He was born at Tigh-a-Phris, Ferintosh, on the 3d July 1756 ; educated
at the University of Aberdeen, and afterwards bred a millwright, to
qualify him for the supervision of family estates in the West Indies.
He became a Colonel of local militia in Jamaica. Subsequently, upon
the death of his maternal grandfather, and of his cousin, Lieutenant
Kenneth Mackenzie, at Saratoga, he succeeded to the estate of Davoch-
maluag. The adjacent properties of Davochpollan and Davochcairn, hav-
ing been already acquired by his father, were by him added to Davochmaluag,
and to the combined properties he gave the name of Brea, after the former
possession of his family in the Black Isle. He was a distinguished agricul-
turist, and was, with Sir George Mackenzie of Coul, and Major Forbes Mac-
kenzie, the first to introduce Cheviot sheep to the Highlands, for
their waste lands. He greatly improved the estate of Brea, in Strathpeft'er,
and laid it out in its present beautiful form. His land improvements,
however, proved unremunerative ; and his Hilton estates were heavily en-
cumbered in consequence of the part taken by the family in the Risings of
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 253
1696, 1 715, and 1745, and great losses having been incurred in connection
with the West Indian properties, this laird got into pecuniary difficulties,
and the whole of his possessions, at home and abroad, were sold either by
himself or by his trustees. He married Mary James in Jamaica, and by
her had four children —
1. John, his heir.
2. Alexander, who married his cousin Charlotte, daughter of the Rev,
Dr Downie, and died in Australia, leaving issue eight children — (1) Alex-
ander, unmarried ; (2) Downie, died unmarried ; (3) John ; (4) Kenneth,
who married Miss Macdonald, a grand-daughter of Macleod of Guesto ; (5)
Charles, unmarried ; (6) William, unmarried ; (7) Mary James, married
to her cousin, Kenneth Mackenzie, XIV. of Hilton; and (8) Jessie,
unmarried.
3. Kenneth, a W.S., who married Anne Urquhart, without issue. He
married, secondly, Elizabeth Jones, with issue, and died in Canada, where
his widow and children reside, in Toronto.
4. Mary, unmarried, living in Australia, very aged, in 1878.
He died at Lasswade, and was succeeded as representative of the
family by his eldest son.
XII. JOHN MACKENZIE, Colonel of the 7th Kegiruent of Bengal
Cavalry, and for many years superintendent of the Government breeding
stud at Buxar. He married, in 1813, Elizabeth, daughter of his uncle,
Kenneth Mackenzie of Inverinate, and died at Simla in 1856, leaving two
sons and three daughters —
1. Alexander, his successor.
2. Kennetli, who became XIV. of Hilton.
3. Mary, who married Dr James, late of the 30th Eegirnent of Foot.
4. Anne, married General Arthur Hall, late 5th Bengal Cavalry,
5. Elizabeth Jane, unmarried.'
He was succeeded by his eldest son,
XIII. ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, who died in 1862, in New South
Wales, unmarried. He was succeded by his brother,
XIV. KENNETH MACKENZIE, the present representative of the ancient
family of Hilton, residing at Tyrl-Tyrl, Taralga, near Sydney. He married
Mary James, a daughter of Alexander Mackenzie, his uncle, and by her
he has three sons and two daughters —
1, John; 2, Kenneth; 3, Downie; 4, Flora; and 5, Jessie.
THE MACKENZIES OF GLACK.
The second cadet of the House of Hilton, of whom any family of note
is descended, was COLIN MACKENZIE, third son of Murdoch, the V. of
Hilton. This gentleman had two sons. The eldest was Alexander, whose
male issue — as appears in the Hilton genealogy — became extinct in 1759,
when his grandson Alexander was drowned, but his succession in the
female line was carried on by his grand-daughter, Mary, who married
Colin Mackenzie, first of Glack. The second son was Roderick, desig-
nated of Brea. He married Una (Winifred), daughter of John Cameron
of Longcroft. -His grandson, Alexander, succeeded as XI. of Hilton.
The second son of Roderick of Brea, born in 1707, became
254 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
I. COLIN .MACKENZIE, first of Glack. Ho was educated at the University
of Aberdeen, and afterwards, in I 734, settled as minister of Fodderty. He
was on terms of intimacy with Duncan Forbes of Culloden, the celebrated
Lord President, with whom he maintained a constant correspondence ;
and this, with his clerical calling, kept him from taking any part in the
Eising of 1745, although all his sympathies were with the Jacobites.
He, in his district, received the earliest news of the landing of Prince
Charles, which, reaching him at night, he at once crossed Knockfarrel
to Brahan, where, finding Seafbrth* in bed, without awaking his lady, he
told him what had. happened. Seaforth having only lately had his estate
restored to him, Avas not disposed to show ingratitude to the Government,
and was easily prevailed upon to disappear from Brahan at least for a timo.
He therefore left for the West Coast during the night unknown to
any one, accompanied by Colin Mackenzie, just as^the Prince's army
was on its march eastward. Both were in retirement near Poolewe
when two ships laden with Seaforth's retainers from the Lews sailed
into the loch, who were at once directed to return to Stornoway, Sea-
forth waving towards them with the jaw-bone of a sheep, which he was
picking for his dinner. In this way, it is said, was fulfilled one of
the predictions of the Brahan Seer — " That next time the men of Lews
should go forth to battle, they would be beaten back by a weapon
smaller than the jaw-bone of an ass."
Meantime, Seaforth's lady, not knowing the whereabouts or intentions
of her husband, entertained the Prince at Brahan Castle, and urged upon the
aged Earl of Cromarty and his son, Lord Macleod, to call out the clans-
men. Subsequently, when the Earl of Cromarty and Lord Macleod Avere
confined in the Tower of London, for taking part in this rebellion, and
when the Countess with her ten children, and bearing a twelfth, Avere suffer-
ing the severest hardships and penury, it Avas this Colin Mackenzie who,
at great risk to himself, voluntarily collected the rents from the tenants
(giving them his own receipt, in security against their being required to make
second payment to the Government commissioners), and carried the
money to her ladyship in London. In recognition of this, he Avas after-
wards appointed, by Lord Macleod, chaplain to Macleod's Highlanders,
raised by his lordship — now the 71st Highland Light Infantry. This
appointment proved more honorary than lucrative, as he had to furnish a
substitute, at his own expense, to perform the duties pertaining to the
office. It was also he who first recognised the health-giving properties of
the Strathpeffer mineral spring, and Avho, by erecting a covered shed
over it, placed it in a condition from that day to benefit the suffering. He
inherited a. considerable fortune in gold from his father, and from his mother
the ruined castle of Diugwall (the old seat of the Earls of Ross) and its
lands, as also the lands of Longcroft. He gave the site of the castle of
Dingwall, then valued at £300, to Henry Davidson of Tulloch, as a con-
tribution towards the erection of a manufactory Avhich he proposed to
establish for the employment of the surplus male and female labour in
Dingwall and its neighbourhood, but Avhich Avas never commenced. He
sold its other lands, and those of Longcroft, to his nepheAv, Alexander
* We shall continue, as the must couveuitnt course, to call him Seafortb, though at
this period the title bad been forfeited,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Mackenzie, XI. of Hilton. Subsequently, he purchased the estate of
Glack, in Aberdeenshire, by the name of which he was afterwards des-
ignated. Shortly before his death in 1801, in his ninety-fifth year,
he conducted the opening services of the Parish Church of Ferintosh
(Urqubart), towards the erection of which he largely contributed, to
commemorate the saving and washing ashore of his wife upon her horse
near its site, when her father and only brother were drowned. He was
twice married. First to Margaret (not Jean, as stated in the Spalding
Club volume of the Kilravock papers), daughter of Hugh, IV. of Clava,
by whom he had issue an only daughter, Margaret, who, on 22d Septem-
ber 1746, died young. He married, secondly, his second cousin, Mary,
eldest daughter of Donald Mackenzie, at Balnabeen, by his wife Jean,
daughter of Thomas Forbes of Raddery, a Bailie of Fortrose, in whose
memory a tablet is erected on the Cathedral there, bearing the following
inscription : — " Sub spe beatae resurectionis in Domino, hie conduntur
ceneres Thomae Forbesii quondam ballivi Fortrossensis, mortui 21,
Sepulti 25 Maii J699, qui in indicium grati erga Deum animi et
charitates erga homines 1200 lib. Scot, ad sustentandam evangelii prsedica-
tionem hac in urbe dicavit. Monumentum mariti unpeusis extmendum
curavit Helena Stuart relicta conjux hie etiarn sexpeleindiam sperans."
By her — who, as already shown, carried on, in the female line, the suc-
cession of Alexander (Sanders), eldest son of "Colin, third son of Murdo,
fifth of Hilton — he had three sons and eight daughters —
1. Roderick, his heir.
2. Donald, educated in theology at the University of Edinburgh,
appointed minister of Fodderty and chaplain to the 71st Regiment of
Highlanders — his father having resigned these offices in his favour. He was
noted as a humourist, and said to be at heart more imbued with the spirit
of a soldier than with that of a minister. He was twice married ; first,
to Mary, daughter to his uncle, John Mackenzie of Brea (" The Laird "),
and by her had two sons and two daughters — Colin, a Colonel of Royal
Engineers, married Anne Petgrave, daughter of John Pendril of Bath,
without issue ; John, of whom afterwards as IV. of Glack ; Elizabeth,
who married Lieutenant Stewart, R.N., with issue ; and Mary, died un-
married.
3. Forbes, a Captain in the North British (Ross-shire) Militia, after-
wards Major in the East of Ross Militia, and for thirty-seven years a
Deputy-Lieutenant of the county. He was a noted agriculturist. It
was he who, at Muirton of Barra, in Aberdeenshire, first cleared land
of large boulders, by blasting with powder, then building them
into fences. He reclaimed and laid out the greater part of StrathpefTer,
where, on Fodderty, he was the first to apply lime to land, and to grow
wheat north of the Forth. He was the first to import Clydesdale horses
and shorthorn cattle into the Northern Counties ; and was, as mentioned
elsewhere — with Sir George Mackenzie of Coul and his cousin Hilton —
the first to introduce Cheviot sheep into the Highlands. He married
Catherine, daughter of Angus Nicolson, Stornoway, and grand-daughter
of the gentleman who commanded and brought to Poolewe, for Prince
Charles's standard, the 300 men sent back by Seaforth to the LBAVS, already
mentioned. By her he had three sons and three daughters — (1) Nicolson,
256 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
a surgeon in the Army, unmarried, wrecked near Pictou, in 1853,
and there drowned attempting to save the lives of others ; ('2)
Roderick, heir of entail to Foveran, a Colonel in the Royal Artillery,
married, in 1878, to Caroline Sophia, daughter of J. A. Beaumont of
Wimbledon Park ; (3) Thomas, a Major in the 78th Highlanders ; (4)
Mary, married the Rev. John Kennedy, D.D., Dingwall, by whom
she has two daughters — Jessie, unmarried ; and Mary, married John
Matheson, Madras, son of the late Rev. Duncan Matheson, Gairloch ;
Dorothy Blair, died unmarried. (5) Catherine Eunice, married to the
late Adam Alexander Duncan of ^aughton, Fife, by whom she has one
daughter ; and (6) Catherine Henrietta Adamina.
4. Anne, married Hector Mackenzie, a Bailie of Dingwall, and son of
Alexander Mackenzie of Tollie, by his second wife, Catherine, daughter
of Bayne of Delny, and younger half-brother of Alexander Mackenzie,
first of Portinore.
5. Mary, married John Mackenzie of Kincraig, and IX. of Redcastle.
6. Joanna, married Dr Millar, in the Lews.
7. Una, died unmarried.
8. Beatrix, married Peter Hay, a Bailie of Dingwall.
9. Isabella, died unmarried.
10, Jean, married the Rev. Colin Mackenzie, minister of Stornoway.
He was succeeded by his eldest son,
II. RODERICK MACKENZIE, who was twice married ; first to Margaret,
daughter of Sir Alexander Mackenzie, Bart., IX. of Gairloch, without
issue ; and secondly, to Christina, daughter of John Niven, brother to
Clava, by whom he had four sons and four daughters —
1. Harry, died unmarried, in 1828.
2. John, of whom afterwards as III. of Glack.
3. Roderick, of Thornton, died unmarried, in 1858.
4. James, a Major in 72d Highlanders, died unmarried, in India, in 1 857.
5. Mary, became Lady Leith of Westhall, Inveramsay and Thornton,
in her own right, and is now the widow of the late General Sir Alexander
Leith, K.C.B., of Freefield and Glenkindie — without issue.
6. Racliael, died unmarried.
7. Christina., of Foveran, died unmarried.
8. Jean Forbes Una, died unmarried.
He was succeeded by his second and eldest surviving son,
III. JOHN MACKENZIE, who inherited Thornton from his brother
Roderick, Foveran from his sister Christina, and acquired Inveramsay by
purchase. He died unmarried, in 1877, and was succeeded by his cousin,
a son of his uncle Donald,
IV. JOHN MACKENZIE, fourth and now of Glack, who was twice
married ; first to Anne, daughter of Thomas Macgill, without issue ; and
secondly, to Margaret Campbell, daughter of John Pendrill, Bath, by
whom he has three sons and two daughters —
1. Duncan Campbell, Rector of Shephall, married to Louisa, daughter
of Colonel 0. G. Nicolls, by whom he has three sons and four daughters
— Donald, a Lieutenant in the Royal Marines ; Alan, Lieutenant in the
Highland Rifle Militia ; Malcolm, Helen, Edith, Lilian, and Amy,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 257
2. John Pendrill, married to Adelaide, daughter of Colonel Henry
Thornton, by who he has two daughter* — -Lucy Eleanor, and Margaret
Pendrill.
3. Roderick B., married Josepha P., daughter of R. Ignatius Robert-
son, without issue.
4. Margaret Campbell Pendrill, unmarried,
5. Mary, unmarried,
THE MACKENZIES OF LOGGIE.
ALLAN MACKENZIE, second of Hilton, had, by his wife, daughter
of Alexander Dunbar of Conzie, third son of the Sheriff of Moray, two
sons. The eldest, Murdoch, we have seen, succeeded him, The second,
John, was served heir to and designated of Loggie, a barony situated in
the parish of the same name, now forming the western portion of the
more modern parish of Urquhart, in the Black Isle.
I. JOHN MACKENZIE, first of Loggie, was the oldest cadet of the Housa
of Hilton. From him descended several persons distinguished for their
literary attainments and valour. He married a daughter of Mackenzie
of Gairloch (supposed to be John, the second baron), by whom he had one
son, who succeeded him,
II. ALLAN MACKENZIE, who married a daughter of Alastair Roy
Mackenzie of Achilty, by whom he had two sons—
1. Donald, his heir.
2. Will lam (Murdoch ?) who left an only daughter married to Murdoch
Mackenzie, first of Little Findon, third son of Alexander Mackenzie of
Killichrist, II. of Suddie.
He was succeeded by his eldest son,
III. DONALD MACKENZIE, who was three times married ; first to
Catherine, fourth daughter of Murdoch Mackenzie, II. of Redcastle,
without issue. He married secondly, Annabella, eldest daughter, by his
second marriage, of Alexander Mackenzie, IV. of Gairloch. By her he
had four sons and three daughters —
1. Colin, educated in medicine at the University of Aberdeen, and,
going abroad, studied at Lyden and Paris unde1' the most famous pro-
fessors. Having received his degree of Doctor of Medicine at Hie Uni-
versity of Rheims, ]\Q returned to his own country. But his adoption of
extravagant theological doctrines, and his immoral conduct in his youth,
caused him to be 'disinherited by his father, whereon he again returned to
his travels. Having stayed abroad for several years, he returned to Inver- •
ness, where he practised medicine with good success, and had a yearly
pension settled on him until his death, which happened there, at a great
age, in February 1708. Although a great admirer of the fair sex,
and even made choice of one of them for his spiritual guide, the learned
gentleman died unmarried. The lady was the famous Antonia Bourignon
who pretended to show that Christianity was quite worn out in the world,
and that she was sent by God to restore it upon the old footing, as it was
established at first by Christ and his Apostles, She left behind her
258 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
nineteen volumes upon spiritual u;utters, published iu several languages,
of which there were in English, " The Light of the .World," " Solid
Virtue," and " The Light risen in darkness."
2. Alexander, his successor.
3. John, educated in theology at the University of Aberdeen, and for
several years chaplain to General Major Mackay's Regiment. After the
Revolution he was appointed minister of Kirkliston, near Edinburgh, from
which he soon retired to London, arid having died there unmarried, was
buried in St Martin's Church, Westminster.
4. Murdoch, who succeeded as V. of Loggie.
5. Margaret, first married to Eorie Mackenzie, IV. of Fairburn ;
secondly, to Hector Mackenzie of Bishop-Kinkell.
6. Christian, married John Mackenzie, I. of Gruinard.
7. Annabella, married Mackenzie of Loggie, in Lochbroom.
He married thirdly, Anne, daughter of the Rev. Donald Morrison,
minister in the Lews, by whom he had an only daughter, who married
Angus Morrison, minister of Contin. He had also a natural son, Rory, a
captain in the confederate army under King William, who dird m
Holland unmarried, and is said to have been a gentleman of groat iuuuur
and generosity. He was succeeded by his second son,
IV. ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, who was twice married; first, in 1667, to
Jean, daughter of Alexander Mackenzie of Ballone ; and secondly, to
Catherine, second daughter of William Mackenzie of Belmaduthy, without
issue by either. He was succeeded by his brother,
V. MURDOCH MACKENZIE, who was educated at the University of
Aberdeen, but his inclination leading him to the Army, he entered
the Earl of Dumbarton's Regiment, where, by his merit and valour,
he soon raised himself to the rank of captain. In Moninouth's rebeDion,
he and his company attacked the enemy with such bravery and resolution,
that — excepting the officers — there were only nine of his men who were
not either wounded or killed; and he himself had the honour of taking
the Duke of Moninouth's standard, wresting it out of the standard-bearer's
hand, and afterwards presenting it to King James VII. at Whitehall.
For this service he Avas promoted to a colonelcy. He died in London,
and was buried at St Martin's Church, Westminster. Ho married an
English lady, by whom he had two sons and three daughters —
1. Murdoch, his heir.
2. George, a youth of promising parts, killed in a duel.
There is no record of the names or marriage of the daughters. He was
succeeded by his son,
VI. MURDOCH MACKENZIE, who continued to reside in London. If
any representatives of his line still exist, they will confer a favour by
forwarding a note of their descent, that the succession of this old family
may be continued in the History of the Clan Mackenzie, r.ow passing
through the press in book form.
(To be Corttlnwd.)
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 259
CUE GAELIC BIBLE.
V.
COULD THE HIGHLANDERS OF 1807 READ IT ?
ON the 23d of March 1825 was held at Inverness the first General Meet-
ing of the "Northern Institution for the Promotion of Science and Litera-
ture." The Institution was ushered into the world with a good deal of
eclat, and with the promise of a career which we fear has not been rea-
lised. Its published list of honorary members contains the names of Sir
James Mackintosh ; Sir Walter Scott ; Henry Mackenzie, the Man of
Feeling ; General Stewart of Garth ; Sir John Sinclair ; Corrymony ;
Glengarry ; and Professors Hooker, Buckland, Brewster, and Tulloch.
The first name on its list of corresponding members — Rev. Charles Clou-
ston, Stromness, Orkney — has well fulfilled the promise of its place. To
an old Clach-na-cudain boy its list of ordinary members reads like a roll-
call of the dead : Provost Robertson ; Dr Rose ; Mr Clark; Dean Fyvie;
Roderick Reach, father yet the prince of the whole tribe of " Own.
Correspondents;" Rector Scott; George and James Suter; DrNicol;
Parson Duncan Mackenzie ; Rev. Hugh Urquhart, Montreal ; Shepherd,
Belford, the Mactavishes, and John Macandrew, of the local bar ; Banker
John Mackenzie, Banker Ross, and Robert Logan; Rev. Donald Mac-
kenzie of Foddsrty ; Charles L. Robertson ; Lachlan Camming of the
Customs ; Dr Mackintosh ; Dr Tolmie of Campbelltown ; and, perhaps
the best beloved of them all, James Murray Grant of Glenmoriston.
These have all gone over to the majority. A few, like Mr Joseph
Mitchell and " Duncan Davidson, younger of Tulloch, M.P.," still serve
the generations of their children, and could perhaps a tale unfold of the
life and work of the all-but-torgotten Northern Institution. But we must
not linger, whether in the shade of the cypress or with the light on the
laurel. Nor can we stop as much as to glance at the other published lists,
viz. — communications read at the meetings of the Institution, and dona-
tions made to its once flourishing Museum. We owe our introduction to
the Institution to a little work with a long title, which we now introduce
to the readers of the Celtic M<.itj<tzliM. It is entitled a " Prize Essay on
the State of Society and Knowledge in the Highlands of Scotland, parti-
cularly in the Northern Counties, at the period of the Rebellion in 1745,
and of their progress up to the Establishment of the Northern Institution
for the Promotion of Science and Literature in 18'25. By John Ander-
son, AVriter to the Signet, Secretary to the Society of Antiquaries. Edin-
burgh : William Tait, 1827."
At page 108 of this book we have the following statement: — "The
instruction in the schools till the commencement of the present century
was entirely in the English tongue" ; and again, " the efforts of the teacher
were confined to training his pupils to read instead of leading them to
comprehend the import of English composition." Then comes on
the same page in a foot-note the following extract from the letter of
a Highland clergyman, addressed to an intimate friend of the writer.
" As to the Education of the Highlanders, it will never be accom.-
260 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
plished until a different system from the present one bj adopted. Pray,
what is the use of forcing children to read and repeat what they do not
understand ? I could find thousands in the Highlands of Scotland who
will read the English Bible tolerably well, but cannot understand more
than 'yes or no.' Being thus obliged to continue reading a language
completely unintelligible to them, it gives them no pleasure, but rather
disgust ; and the moment they leave school, if they remain at home in
those districts where nothing but their mother-tongue is spoken, they lay
their books aside, and never look at them more. I know some men who
were at Inverness at their education sixty years ago ; they could read and
write when they left school, and to-day they cannot read any. How, in
God's name, could the people be expected to read even in their own lan-
guage, when their pastors could not read or write that language, although
they preached it to the poor people ? The clergy read no more than the
text, whereas if they would read every Lord's-day, a chapter or two out
of the Holy Scriptures, the people in that case would be inclined to bring
their Bibles to the Kirk, and they would follow the minister. Even in
the present day, I venture to say that there are a few of the Presbyterian
clergy in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, that cannot read a cliap-
ter out of the Gaelic Bible." It is to be regretted that Mr Anderson does
not give the name of the writer of this letter. As it stands it is not only
anonymous, but it shows an evident tendency to exaggeration of state-
ment, and does not altogether conceal the cloven foot of odium theologi-
cum as regards the " Presln/terian clergy." But, on the other hand, it
must be remembered that the letter is practically indorsed, not only by
Mr Anderson, who uniformly expresses his views with moderation, but
also by the Northern Institution, which adjudged him a prize for his
essay. And it cannot be denied that the stories, always ludicrous and
sometimes very indelicate, still circulating in the northern Highlands,
whose point turns entirely on some outrageous blunder of the pigeon Gaelic
once spoken from the pulpits of, say Gairloch or Petty or Kingussie, do
undoubtedly lend some colour to the taunt that, at the beginning of the
century, a few of the Highland clergy could not read a chapter of the
Gaelic Bible from which they gave out their text. At the same time, it
is only fair to say that, although the memory of men now living goes
easily back to a period when the clergy of the north, at least in the rural
parishes, never read a chapter of the Gaelic or the English Bible in the
ordinary service of the sanctuary, there were yet the "readers" who, as to
this day in the Protestant Church of France, regularly read large portions
of Scripture to the people before the minister entered the pulpit. We,
ourselves, remember well that this was the uniform practice in the parish
Church of Knockbain, in times as recent as 1842. Mr Colin Mackenzie,
afterwards minister successively of Petty and Contin, was then the paro-
chial schoolmaster of Knockbain, and for about an hour every Sunday
morning, before the arrival of the minister, he regularly read the Gaelic
Bible to a large assembly of devout and deeply interested Highlanders.
And in the Gaelic Church of Edinburgh, down to 1843, a part of the pre-
centor's salary was regularly entered in the; cash book of the Church as
paid to the "reader" of the congregation.
But when, from such considerations, the largest possible allowance has
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 261
been made, there still remains the fact that a great part of the indictment
just quoted from Mr Anderson's essay against the early educationists of
the Highlands stands unchallenged and uuchallengable. Our readers have
not forgotten that as early as 1616 it was the belief of the Privy Council
of Scotland, solemnly embodied in the Parochial School Act, that " the
Irishe language was one of the chieff and principall causes of the continu-
ance of barbaritie and incivilitie among the inhabitants of the Isles and
Heylandis"; and that therefore it ought peremptorily to be "abolished
and removit," and "the vulgar Inglishe toung universallie planted." And
there can be no doubt that the founders of the Society for Propagating
Christian Knowledge had not emancipated themselves from the bonds of
the same unhappy error. The most conclusive evidence of this will be
found in " An Account of the Eise, Constitution, and Management of the
Society. Edinburgh: William Brown, 1720": a publication which was
widely circulated by the Society as its official appeal for increased public
support. For example, No. 8 of the Rules for Schoolmasters, as set forth
in this publication, enjoins " that as soon as the scholars can read compg-
tently well, the master shall teach them to write a fair legible hand, and
also instruct them in the elements and most necessary rules of arithmetic,
that they may thereby be rendered more useful in their several stations in
the world, but not any Latin or Irish," p. 35. Again, rule 14 enjoins
that " the Society's Schoolmasters are discharged to teach Latine or Irish,"
p. 37. There can be no mistake as to the real intention of this rule. The
writer of the work was himself an office-bearer of the society. It was in
fact the Society's Official Manifesto. And yet it points with pride, and
as a brilliant proof to the efficiency of the schools, to a certain Presbyte-
rial Report — happily not named, — which states that within the bounds of
the Presbytery the Society's Schools had been so successful " that Barba-
rity and the Irish Language in that place by their means are almost rooted
out," p. 43.* The same work makes 110 secret of the Society's design
on the old religion of the Highland people: for " the first proposal was
that, as Popish parents would not send theii children to be taught the
Bible and Catechism, therefore little hospitals should be erected where the
children of Popish parents should be taken in, and provided for with all
necessaries while at school. But this was found too great an expense,"
p. 38.
Up to 1738, when Alexander Macdonald's Gaelic and English Voca-
bulary was published, there was no Gaelic book of any kind used in the
* Contrast with this the following extract from Dr John Gonlou's " Education
Scherap of the Church of Scotland from its origin in 1825 to 1872. Black wood— 1878."
An inspection of the Assembly Schools in Argyleshire enabled the Convener and Secre-
tary (1832) to report how far, and in what manner, the rule in regard to Gaelic reading
was observed in the schools of that district : — " One feature of these schools is not com-
monly found elsewhere — the pupils of all ages are for the most part instructed in two
languages — in Gaelic, because it is the spoken language of the place, and in obedience to
the instructions of the directors. The English, again, is taught, and almost from the
commencement, because the people desire it, and will nowhere be without it. Accord-
ingly, there is in all these schools the interesting sight of children engagid in a conflict
with two languages. The compound nature of the task exhilarates their spirits, begets
a habit of activity and alertness, and develops their understandings— e.g., when a pupil
has become able to read, he translates alternately from the one tongue to the other, till
the language he has learned from books becomes only not so familiar as that which lie ia
accustomed to speak. He is taught to render not merely word for word, but, in some
instances, to convert whole sentences involving differences of idiom," p. 40.
262 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Society's schools. The Mother's Catechism was translated in 1758, but
as late even as 1811 we find " that any who can read their own language
have been taught orally, there being no Gaelic Spelling-Book hitherto in
use, nor even in existence " (Gaelic School Society's Report.*, vol. i., page
10).
It is true that in 1774 the Society for Propagating Christian Know-
ledge did slightly relax the stringency of its rule against teaching Gaelic.
In a detailed statement then published (Edinburgh : A. Murray) of the
most material regulations respecting schoolmasters, the Society brings it-
eelf on this head so far as to say thai the schoolmasters are "to teach the
scholars to read and speak the English tongue and to translate Gaelic into
English." But that was the utmost relaxation that could be allowed.
Stringent precautions were to be taken in regard to the schoolmasters'
knowledge of the principles of religion, their skill in reading and writing,
their known prudence, loyalty, and piety, and their taking the oaths pre-
scribed by law. They were required also diligently to instruct their
scholars in the principles of the true Protestant Reformed religion. But
as regards the vital matter of the only language understood by the people,
the utmost point that had been reached, and reached apparently by slow
and reluctant steps, was "teach them to read and speak English and
translate Gaelic into English."
It is also true that forty years later this Society recognised very fully
the importance of using the language of the hearth in th<^ work of the
school. But by the time these more enlightened views came thus to be
generally adopted by educators, the educated, or rather the parents who
had the control of the children under education, had themselves firmly
adopted the opposite prejudice, against which at first they had proudly
rebelled. When, after a long transition period of neglect following upon
the Reformation, the schoolmaster was first sent down to the Highland
glens, his openly proclaimed mission was " English, Loyalty, the true
Protestant Faith." There was no attempt to gild the pill or sugar it.
The pill may be bitter, but you have just to take it : It's to do you good :
It's to purge you of the atrobilious dregs of rebellion, Popery, and your
wild Irishe tongue, that "chieff and principall cause of barbaritie and in-
civilitie." Open your mouth then and swallow. No wonder that the
Highlanders resisted, and in some cases resented with violence so drastic
a system of education. But like the conquered Germans of Alsace and
Lorraine, who soon became more French than their conquerors, the High-
landers, unconquered and unconquerable on the battle-field, adopted as
true Gospel the educational heresy which at first they spurned with in-
dignation. The double change of front thus not unnaturally effected
makes a pretty educational show in the following extract, which is taken
from the report of " a sub-committee on the visitation of schools " em-
bodied in the General Report of the Society for 1825 : — " The sub-com-
mittee regrets to find that the teaching of Gaelic has been very much
neglected, even in districts where that language is almost exclusively
used and understood by the inhabitants. The committee is satisfied that
this arises from the feelings and prejudices of the people, in whose minds
there is a strong prejudice against the use of Gaelic as a school language
—a prejudice which has been found in full strength even where the
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 263
older people could themselves use no other language. The Society, how-
ever, observe that so long as the children talk no other language but
Gaelic, it is a mere waste of time and entirely vain to burden their
memories with a vocabulary of dead and unmeaning English sounds.
The Society therefore resolve that in Gaelic districts it is most essentially
necessary that that language should be taught in the first instance, and
that the English should not be taught to any till they, have made such
proficiency in the -former as to enable them fully to comprehend the
meaning of what they learn to read in the latter." [p. 26.]
By this time the Gaelic School Society had been thirteen years
in existence, and it is not unlikely that the experience of the daughter
Society may have had some effect in modulating to this altered key the
later music of the mother.
Be that as it may, we do not know of any picture of the educational
state of the Highlands at the commencement of the present century so
complete and so expressive as that which is presented in the first volume
of this younger Society's reports (1810-1816). The great aim of this
new Society is thus expressed in the first public declaration of its
founders : " The translation of the Sacred Scriptures into Gaelic, and their
publication under the patronage of the Society for Propagating Christian
Knowledge, the late erection of the British and Foreign Bible Society,
and the publication by them of an edition of this Version of the Sacred
Scriptures, constitute an era in the history of this country, big, we trust,
with the most important and beneficial events. To produce these, how-
ever, ability to read the Gaelic Scriptures must be diffused as extensively
as copies of them"
It is worth mentioning here that the new Society professed to be
strictly unsectarian. But human nature seems to be incurably tinctured
with the sectarian spirit. And so it comes that an MS. note, facing the
title-page on the volume before us, must needs classify the membership
of the Society as follows: —Established 12, Baptist 4, Secession 5, Judges
2, Lady G(lenorchy ?) 1, Epis(copal) 1. Rule VII. is expressed in these
words : " that the teachers to be employed by this Society shall neither
be preachers nor public exhorters, stated or occasional, of any denomina-
tion whatever." The school books to be used were a spelling book in
Gaelic, prepared by the Society, and the Gaelic Psalm Book — to be suc-
ceeded by the Sacred Scriptures of the Old and New Testament, in that
language. The schools were to be " ambulatory," i.e., the school stations
were to be changed at periods varying from six to eighteen months.
The first report of the Gaelic Society contains an appendix of 30
pages, about 10 pages of which are occupied with an account of the Welsh
Circulating Schools, on which the new Gaelic schools were to be modelled.
The remaining pages are occupied with twenty-two parochial returns,
descriptive of the educational state of the Highlands, contributed
by the parish ministers, in answer to the Society's first circular letter,
issued on 27th December 1810. Let us endeavour to focus a bird's-eye
view of these returns. From Glenshiel the Rev. John Macrae reports
the population as 750 ; of these 209 could read English, and most of the
209 could also read Gaelic ; none could read Gaelic alone, From Harris
the Rev. Alexander Macleod reports the population as 3000 ; of these
204 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
200 only could read English and Gaelic. " As to the query ' what num-
bers understand and are capable of reading Gaelic alone V you will be
surprised to hear that of this class I cannot find any in Harris, and few
are to be met with in Scotland who read Gaelic alone." From Kintail
the Rev. Roderick Morison reports the population as 1000 ; of these 192
could read English, and of the 192 as many as 133 could also read Gaelic;
" two men who could not read English were able to read the Gaelic Psalm
Book, not by power of letters, but by observation of them and dint of
memory." From Bracadale the Rev. Roderick Macleod reports that 373
could read English ; that only one could read Gaelic alone ; " and that
otic acquired it while in a regiment of fencibles in Ireland, which shows
that people could in time be brought to read Gaelic if they had proper
teachers." From Stornoway the Rev. Colin Mackenzie reports the popu-
lation of (1) the town district as 2000, of whom 600 could read English,
and " scarce twenty " Gaelic : (2) Uii (Uig 1) population 800, ticenty only
of whom could read English and six Gaelic ; (3) Gress, population 700,
of whom but six could read English, and two Gaelic. From Kilmuir,
Skya, the Rev. Donald Ross reports 2728 souls who could read neither
English nor Gaelic, 162 who read English and Gaelic, and 2 who read
Gaelic alone. From Torosay, Mull, the Rev. Alexander Fraser reports a
population of 2000 ; of these 386 could read English, and 298 English
and Gaelic. From the lowland parish of Fearn, near Tain, the Rev.
Hugh Ross reports that seven-eighths of a population of 1500 could
read neither English nor Gaelic ; of the remaining eighth who read
English only 20 could read Gaelic. From Applecross the Rev. John
Maequeen reports that from a congregation of 2000 assembled on a com-
munion occasion not more than 60 attended the English service. It is
interesting to note that, contrary to the experience of others, he knew
" several instances of persons without the least knowledge of English
reading who learned to read Gaelic with facility and fluency." From
Lochcarron the Rev. Lachlan Mackenzie reports that 232 read English,
many of whom also read Gaelic ; 2 only read Gaelic alone ; and 645
read neither English nor Gaelic. From Gairloch the Rev. James Russel
reports 324 who read English, 72 who read Gaelic alone, and 2549
who read neither. From Contin the Rev. James Dallas reports 1200 as
being unable to read Gaelic or English ; in the low parts of the parish 1
in 6 could read English ; in the heights 1 in 11. "All the natives under-
stand Gaelic, but I know not twelve persons among them who can read
Gaelic alone and are not able to read English."
Thus briefly have we summarised the ample details which many cor-
respondents, some of them at great length, had communicated to the new
Society from all parts of the Highlands. And be it remembered that what
we have here is the testimony of eye witnesses. Each minister describes
the state of his own parish. One calculates, indeed, in round numbers,
and another figures out his return with arithmetical exactitude to the last
unit. But all speak of the things of which for years they had the fullest
personal knowledge. What a picture 1 And that the picture was not an
overdrawn appeal wl misericordiam, but a faithful transcript of the sad
and pitiful reality, there is unhappily no lack of evidence. Then in the
next report of the Gaelic School Society (1812) we find the following
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
extracts from letters written by gentlemen who enjoyed opportunities
specially favourable foi acquainting tlieinselves with the state of the
Highlands. The Eev. William Eraser of Kilchrenan writes: — "The
picture of Highland parishes so faithfully drawn by your correspondents
in the north, I have had occasion often to contemplate with emotions of
pity and regret." Mr Eraser thus testified from personal knowledge,
acquired by him "as teacher, missionary, and clergyman," in the wide
district extending from " Applecross, in Koss shire, to Kintyre, in Argyle-
shire, including some of the largest, and several of the small adjacent,
islands." And the Rev. Daniel Dewar, then labouring at Strontian,
afterwards so well known as the successor of Dr Chalmers in Glasgow,
and Principal of the Marischal College of Aberdeen, is quoted in the re-
port to this effect: — "I have made, in company with some English friends,
an extensive tour through most of the Hebrides, as well as through
Arisaig, Moidart, North and South Morar, Knoydart, &c., and I am now
most deeply convinced of the utility and the necessity of your Society.
I have made it my business to make enquiries as to the abilities of the
people to read, and have seldom met with any one of the common people
in the districts I have mentioned capable of reading either English or
Gaelic. There is no school in Cana, containing \ipwards of four hundred
souls — no school in the extensive district of Moidart. The moral and
religious state of this people must be truly pitiable, since between the
parish church of Ardnamurchan and that of Glenelg there is but one
missionary minister. Pray unfold the map and look at the immense
regions which intervene. I mention this with no other view than to
excite the pity of your Society towards the moral condition of a people
who are labouring under great disadvantages." The learned and vener-
able Principal, then but a stripling with the world before him, closes his
letter with a sentence which may appropriately close this long digression:
" It is in vain that the benevolence of Christians gives them the Bible,
in their own language, unless you extend to them the power of reading
it,"
The benevolence of the Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge
gave the Highlander, in 1807, a complete and cheap edition of the Gaelic
Bible. Scarce was the ink dry on this first really available impression of
the sacred volume, when the British and Foreign Bible Society took it
up ; doubling, and ere long quadrupling the gift. In like manner the
Gaelic School Societies of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness, though
they never attained to any remarkable vigour, held out a helping hand
in the mother society's parallel and preparatory work of education, till in
1825 the grand scheme of the General Assembly's Education Committee
crowned the edifice. Thousands of Highlanders, at home and all over the
world, are to-day the living witnesses of the solid strength and graceful
proportions of that noble edifice, with its 327 schools supported by £5881 of
annual voluntary contributions, which the Church, in 1872, handed over
gracefully and trustfully to the care of the Highland people, acting through
their statutory school-boards. Let us trust that the day is now at hand
when all our people will read the Bible with equal ease in Gaelic and
English. And let us pray that then they may all so know and love it as
to become themselves living epistles of its truth and power.
DONALD MASSON,
266 THE CELTIC MAGAZLXK.
DONALD MACDOUGALL.
WE Lave much pleasure in placing on permanent record an account of the well-deserved
honours conferred upon our excellent and remarkable townsman, Mr Donald Macdougall,
of "Royal Tartan Warehouse" celebrity, by bis fellow citizens, on the evening of the
18th March, in the Hall of the Workmen's Club. He was presented with a marble bust
of himself, subscribed for by friends at home and abroad, and prepared by a rising
townsman, Mr Andrew Davidson, sculptor, to whom the work does the highest credit.
The bust is an excellent and striking likeness, executed in the finest Carrara marble, and
set on a small base of polished white marble. There is also a yellow pedestal 2 feet 9
inches high, of Scagliola marble, highly polished and moulded. On the face of this
pedestal is a brass plate, beautifully engraved by Messrs Ferguson Brothers, and bearing
the following inscription :—
This bust of Donald Macdougall, Esq., Inverness, originator of the Tweed trade in
Scotland, was freely subscribed for by all sections of the community, and presented to
the Working Men's Club, of which he was the founder, at a public gathering of his
fellow citizens on the 18th March 1879. It is designed to commemorate the good deeds
of one whose active benevolence daring a long life, conferred lasting benefits on his
native town, and whose energy, sacacity, and commercial ability, elevated an insignificant
branch of trade into a national industry that continues to command a first place in the
markets of the world.
The chair was occupied by the Primus, with Mr Macdougall on his right hand, and
supported by the Provost, Bailie Black, Bailie Macdonald, the Rev. Dr Black, Mr
Dallas, Town-Clerk ; Councillor Burns, Mr Ross, architect ; Mr William Ferguson,
Chairman of the Club ; and Mr George Wood of the Courier, Tea and fruit having
been served, the choir of the Cathedral sang " God Save the Queen," Mr Money playing
the piano accompaniments.
The PRIMUS announced that letters of apology had been received from Mr Mackintosh
of Raigmore ; Dr Brougham, Culduthel ; Mr James Brougham, Mr Robert Carruthers,
Mr Galloway, and Colonel Cameron, Clifton Lodge, who all expressed their deep regret
that they were unable to be present.
The CHAIRMAN said — Having done homage to our most gracious Majesty the Queen,
the next work in which we are to be engaged is to offer a mark, a d .'e;> nj.trk, of respect
and veneration to him who is the immediate cause of our gathering this i-veuing. (Ap-
plause.) We are assembled to offer a token of real respect and regard to one — and I
speak with a deep affection for him, and I mean each word that I say — to offer, I repeat,
a token of respect and regard, not only to an honourable and a good man, but to a man who
has spent mauy years of his life in endeavouring to promote the best and the highest
interests among those whom he lived. (Applause.) While speaking iu the presence of
Mr Macdougall, I feel that it is necessary to limit the expressions that I could otherwise
make use of, lest they should be painful and offensive to him ; and yet I must speak of
something connected with him, in order to remind you of his real merits. Mr Mac-
dougall has again and again told me of his earliest life with gratitude for the gifts and
blessings which he has received. He has told me that, when a boy, he ran about the
streets of Inverness without shoes or stockings. Now, when we think of that, and then
look upon this hall, we have some evidence in our mine's, not only of the manner in
which God has blessed and prospered the career of this man, but of the use which he bfcs
made of the blessings which Got! has bestowed upon him. (Loud applause.) There are
many incidents iu Mr ALicduu^.tll's life to which reference might be made, but it would
occupy too much of your time were I to mention any but the more salient points,
aiid those connected witn tbe special object of our meeting. There is one incident in Mr
Macdougall's life wliich, in the present day, ought to he prominently brought before the
public mind. But that very incident is not the first incident of the kind which has oc-
curred in Mr Macdougall's family. Mr Macdougall's father, like himself, began business
a poor man. Like many a ^ood man before him, after a time he failed in business, and
was obliged to enter into an arrangement with his ci editors. He paid them a composi-
tion. He resumed business and went on and prospered— though not to the extent in
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 267
which his son has prospered — and the result of his prosperity was this, that, though com-
paratively a poor man, he cailed together his former creditors, and paid them with in-
terest the remainder of his obligations to them. (Loud appl.ime ) And, if I am not
misinformed, that good man in his dying hour, left a legacy to his son who is now our
guest — that legacy bein? a desire, that if his son should be ever placed in similar circum-
stances, he was to" do the same thing. What use the son has made of that legacy you all
know. (Applause.) He turned that legacy to good account; for he, too, like many
another good man, failed in business, and was compelled to meet his creditors with a
composition of 15s in the £1. He subsequently prospered. God blessed him, and as
soon as it was in his power he called together his creditors, and paid to them the re-
mainder of his obligations with interest. Many a man might have expressed readiness
and willingness to act in this way towards his creditors — many a man might have said
that his creditors might come forward and avail themselves of his readiness to pay them.
But Mr Macdougall sought out his creditors. (Applause.) He took the greatest pains
and trouble to discover them— he sought them out even in Australia— and paid them
every one. (Loud applause.) At the time Mr Macdougall did this, perhaps there was
greater commercial honesty in the world than now. But his action was felt to be de-
serving of note by hw commercial brethren, aad, in consequence, his commercial friends
in Glasgow invited him to a special feast. They presented him also with a testimonial,
indicating their high sense of his honourable conduct, and I will i ead to you the inscription
which was put upon the service of plate which was at that time given him : — " Presented,
with a tea service and ether articles of silver plate, to Donald Macdougall, Esq., by a
numerous circle of commercial friends, as a testimonial of their respect, and more par-
ticularly as an expression of their sense of his honourable conduct in paying the balance
of his obligations of the year 1837, from which he had been fully discharged. 30th
Apiil 1857." (Loud applause.) In the present day such an example as that deserves to
be held up before the public— (applause)— and I trust that there may be many ready and
disposed to follow it. (Applause.) Time passed on, and Mr Macdougall retired from
the business in which he had been so long engaged — a business which really has brought
honour and reputation on the capital of the Highlands. (Applause.) I believe that in
the first great Exhibition of 1851, Mr Macdougall, though with very great difficulty,
was enabled to bring specimens of our Sootck tartans before the public notice, by his
obtaining permission to exhibit his Scotch tartans ; and from that time forward the
Royal Tartan Warehouse in Inverness has been a place known, I may say, throughout
the world— known not only in England, but in the Colonies and in India. And what-
ever advantage and credit we derive from that, it is entirely owing to the exertions of Mr
Macdoufcall. (Applause.) Well, as I said, time passed on, and Mr Macdougall retired
from business, but not from work. From that time forth— and it has been my happy lot
to have observed his carter for more than five-and-twenty years — he appeared to me to
devote himself, with singleness of purpose and with a noble heart, to good works. (Re-
newed applause.) Whenever there was any good work to be done in Inverness I have
ever found Mr Macdougall one of the first and heaitiest to take it up. Amongst other
things I would point to the hall in which we are now assembled. From the fact that Mr
Macdougall had climbed to the top of the tree through all its vaiious branches, he had
known the many trials and difficulties of working men. He had known how of ten the work-
man's heart yearned, after his hard day's toil, for some quiet rest — for something of an
evening such as might divert his thought from the day's toil, and help to improve the
mind, which could not be improved during the drudgery of his daily woik. Mr Mac-
dougall knew and felt that there was a want in this respect in Inverness, and he resolved
to supply that want. (Applause.) He determined to establish this Woiking Men's
Club. (Renewed applause.) And he succeeded in establishing it by the great labour
•which he bestowed upon obtaining subscriptions from Scotchmen and Englishmen all
over the world. I don't like to s*y how many letters Mr Macdougall once told me he
had written in his endeavours to establish this Club; and he began almost before the
penny post was introduced. But not only by these great exertions, but by his own un-
bounded liberality— (applause) — he was enabled to raise this building in which we are
now met. (Renewed applause.) And many and many are the hard wrought workmen
whe have found, I am sure, in this Workmen's Ciub many a moment's happy rest and
quietness, and many an evening of personal and individual improvement from the books
which are here provided, and which books came here from or through Mr Macdougall.
He sought books everywhere. He is a loyal subject, but he did not mind going to the
Queen and troubling her Majesty with the wants of those whom he was desirous to benefit.
(Laughter and applause.) And he succeeded— (applause) - as he has succeeded in every
thing he has put his hand to. (Renewed applause.) feuch work, such active work, did
really demand recognition, and, accordingly, some time ago friends of Mr Macdougall,
who were attached and devoted to him, and who recognised his value, determined to
raise the means to offer him some substantial token of their regard and affection ; and,
with a view of making that an enduring token, they resolved that part of the means
raised should be laid out in a marble bust of the founder of this Workmen's Club. (Ap-
268 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
plause.) That bust has been executed, I am thankful to say, by an eminent sculptor, a
sculptor in Inverness— (applause) -one who has given many instances of his taste, power,
and genius. (Renewed applause.) You will have an opportunity now of seeing a speci-
men of his sail in his admirable representation of our well-known guest — a representa-
tion which in every respect will be a peimari'iit likeness of him, wanting only that by
which we all know him— namely, his hat. (Laughter and applause.) However, we are
always glad to see him with or without the hat. (Renewed laughter.) lam sure, ladies
and gentlemen, I am only expressing your feelings, as well as my own, when I s;iy that
we all most heartily pray that his green old age may be a happy one, and that when we
shall begin to see that well-known face no more in the streets of Inverness, we may feel
that he has obtained a higher rest and reward than that which he sought in tkis world.
I now ask the Provost to unveil the bust. And [turning to Mr Macdougall] on behalf of
the public of Inverness, and of a much larger public than that of Inverness, I have the
honour to present you, Mr Macdougall, with this marble bust as a token of the esteem,
regard, and affection which is universally entertained towards you. (Loud applause.)
The PROVOST, amid cheers, unveiled the bust, and read the inscription on the pede-
stal.
Mr MACDOUGALL, rising to reply, was received with loud applause. He said — Your
lordship's kind and flattering remarks have so overpowered me, that I fear I shall
scarcely find words adequate to the expression of what aiy full Highland heart at present
feels. I ought to give bumble and devout thanks to the Source whence all blessings
flow, that He has so preserved my health and nerved my arm as to enable me, though
with a severe struggle, to do a simple act of duty, in presenting this large and well-
furnished Club to the working classes of my native town. (Applause.) I feel much in-
debted to your lordship, the metnbsrs of committee, and the public generally, far and
near, for this additional honour conferred on me in the shape of this life like bust,
which I am happy to say has been executed by a townsman, Mr Davidson. (Applause.)
After my long and busy career, the bust is an honourable acknowledgment of my endea-
vour to provide for the requirements and recreations of the working classes after the
day's toil is over. This Workmen's Club is one of the most successful of the kind in
Scotland, possessing a large library of 4000 books, a spacious reading and lecture room,
a room for innocent games, and a playground behind, also the principal daily and
weekly newspapers and magazines, and some foreign newspapers. (Applause.) There
are about 400 member?, and a vast number of penny daily visitors. (Applause.)
I am sure that each member of the Town Council, and of the Club Committee,
will exert himself to increase its usefulness. After the toil and business of the
day are over, what a pleasant thing it is to have such a cheerful place to spend an
evening in. The workman feels more keenly than any other man the need of social
enjoyment after bis day of labour is at an end. (Hear, hear, and applause.) This
Club has had the high honour of receiving a spiendid gift of books of the best kind from
her Majesty, our royal mistress. (Applause.) The building being the property of the
town, 1 would earnestly beseech the members of the Town Council to assist Messrs
Ferguson, jewellers, who, for some time past, have taken an active part in the manage-
ment of the Club. When I was in business, my motto was, There is nothing reasonable
and honest impossible, if you bend all the powers of your mind and body to it— (applause)
— energy, invincible determination and purpose, once fixed, then death or victory !
(Renewed applause.) It is pleasant to a man at the close of his life to receive a mark of
appreciation from his fellow-townsmen, and the bust, which so many friends have com-
bined to present, is most gratifying to my feelings. I receive it also as a proof that the
Workmen's Club has not been without benefit to the classes for whom it was built.
(Applause.) Many, very many, kind and heartfelt thanks to you, my Lord Bishop, for
your many kind wishes and complimentary remarks. The recollection ot this evening
will, while I live, be engraved on the tablets of my memory. (Applause.) Mr Mac-
dougall, before concluding, presented the bust to the Club through the chairman, Mr
William Ferguson. He trusted the Club would place it in some suitable position, for
nothing would please him more than the thought that, after he had gone from amongst
them, some memorial had been left to show those who came after him the kindness with
which they had regarded his efforts to do some little good in his day — (applause)— and
how those efforts were more than repaid by the proceedings of this night — the proudest
night of his life. (Renewed applause.) Referring to the assistance which the Club,
through him, had received from the Queen, Mr Macdougall said the Queen was one of
his very best customers for many vears — (laughter and applause)— and a more delightful
lady he never had the honour of serving. (Laughter and applause.) He took the liberty
some thirteen years ago of writing to the Dowager Duchess of Athole, asking her
Grace to bring the Club under the notice of her Majesty, and the result, as had been
said, was an excellent gift of books. (Applause.) He had also received much valuable
assistance from the Primus and his friends. He mentioned that one day walking down
a street in London he met a gentleman whom he knew. He stopped to speak with him,
and the gentleman said, " Ah, books." (Laughter.) Nothing more passed, but he (Mr
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 269
Macdougall) followed his acquaintance to his residence in Albeinaile Street, and they
went up the stairs, and the gentleman opened his library door and said, "Take these
four shelves." (Laughter and applause.) The Primus was then in London; Mr Mac-
dougall mentioned the circumstance to him, and he said that the gentleman was to dine
•with him, and that Mr Macdougall could meet him next day at the same place and time.
This he did — followed the gentleman again — and on reaching the top of the stair, the
library was once more opened, and he was told to take " these three shelves." (Laugh-
ter and applause.) These incidents he mentioned as an encouragement to be always on
the alert and attentive. (Applause.)
Mr WILLIAM FERGUSON, Chairman of the Club, formally accepted the bust, and
thanked Mr Macdougall. The bust, he said, would henceforth become one of the
principal attractions in the hall. As a work of art, it could not be surpassed, and while,
to the present and future members of the Working Men's Club, it would always be a
speaking likeness, reminding them ot the donor, to whose benevolence and energy the
Club owed its existence, it would, at the same time be appreciated as the work of a
sculptor, Mr Andrew Davidson, one of ourselves, of whom we are truly proud— (applause)
— and whose talents were not only the admiration of his fellow-townsmeo, but un-
doubtedly placed him in the highest rank_ of his profession. Mr Ferguson again ex-
pressed gratitude for all that Mr Macdougall had done for them, as the original founder
of the Club. (Applause.)
The rest of the evening was occupied with a musical entertainment, in which Mrs
Kenrick, Airs Wilson, Miss Lizzie Macbean, Canon Medley, Mr Money, and Mr Bulmer
took ),art. All the songs were loudly applauded and some of them encored. The meet-
ing was wound up with votes of thanks to the chairman and the choir, and with three
cheers for the sculptor of the bust, Mr Davidson.
MY II I E L A N' H A M E.
I wandered in a foreign clime, where wild flowers blossomed fair,
An' socht for Scotia's swees blue bell, but fand nae blue bell there ;
Syne, as a tear frae love's pure fount warm trembled in mine e'e,
My spirit to my hielan' hame was wafted owre the sea.
My hielan' hame, my hielan' hame !
Oh ! hoo it fans affection's flame !
On earth there is nae spot the same
To me, as my dear hielan' hame !
Where mountains towered, and foaming floods their channels deep had worn,
Wi' throbbing breast I lang surveyed the cot where I was born,
My kindly mither blest my view, wha nursed me on her knee,
An' happy made oor hielan' hame far, far across the sea.
My hielan' hame, my hielan' hame ! &c.
Companions, loved langsyne, I saw around the hearth convene,
The silver tresses o' my sire threw rev'rence owre the scene;
Truth glowed in ilka honest face, like sunlicht on the lea,
Thus rilled wi' joy my hielan' hame far, far across the sea.
My hielan' hame, my hielan' hame ! &c.
Upon that cherished spot, again, to dwell my bosom burned ;
Drawn by love chains, time couldna break, I to my freends returned,
Their gladsome souls the darkest day adorn wi' purest glee ;
My hielau' hame I'll leave nae mair to cross the stormy sea.
My hielan' hame, my hielan' hame
Oh ! hoo it funs affection's flune !
On earth there is nae spot the same
To me, as my dear hielan' hame !
EDINBURGH. ALEXANDER LOGAN.
270 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
GENEALOGICAL NOTES AND QUERIES.
o
ANSWERS.
THE RF,V. WM. FRASER OF KILMORA.CK.
IN answer to "A.D.C.," Bishop Hay, maternal uncle to Agnes Lovat,
carried away by Kenneth Mackenzie (a Bhlair), VII. Baron of Kintnil, when
he sent away his first wife, Margaret, daughter of John, Earl of Ross,
advised Kenneth 'and the lady's friends that a commission should be sent to
the Pope in 1491, to procure the legitimation of their union. This was
agreed to, and the foil wing account of the Commissioners sent is taken
from the "Ancient" Allangrange MS. of the Mackenzies in my possession :
— "To that effect one called Donald Dhu M'Chreggir priest of Kirkhill was
imployed, which accordingly he performed. This priest was a native in
Kintail, descended of a clan there called Clan Chreggir, who being a
hopeful boy in his younger days was educat in Mackenzie's house and
afterwards at Beullie be. the fore-mentioned Dugall Mackenzie (natural
son of Alexander "lonraie " VI. of Kintail) pryor yrof. In end (he) was
made priest of Kirkhill. His successors to this Jay are called Erasers. Of
this priest is descended Mr William and Mr Donald Eraser." The author
of the Avdintoul MS. gives a slightly different version, and says : — 'To
which end they sent Mr Andrew Eraser, Priest of Kintail, a learned and
eloquent man, who took in his company Dugal Mackenzie, natural son to
Alexander Inrig, who was a scholar. The Pope entertained them kindly
and very readily granted them what they desired, and were both made
knights to the boot by Pope Clement VIII., but when my knights came
home they neglected the decree of Pope Innocent III. against the mar-
riage and consentricate of the clergy, or, otherwise, they got a dispensa-
tion from the then Pope Clement VIII. for both of them married. Sir
Dugal was made priest of Kintail and married nien (daughter) Dunchy
Chaim in Glenmorriston. Sir Andrew likewise married, whose son was
Donull Du Maelntagard (Black Donald son of the Priest) and was priest
of Kirkhill and Chapter of Ross, llitt tacks of the Vicaraye of Kil-
iiKinick to John ChisJiolm of Comar stands to this day. His son was .Mi-
William Mac Ahoulding, alias Eraser, who died minister of Kiltarlady.
His son was Mr Donald Eraser, who \\asniinistcr of Kilmorack. So that
he is the fifth minister or ecclesiastical person in a lineal and uninter-
rupted succession which falls out but seldom and than which, in my
judgment can more entitle a man to be really a gentleman, for that blood
which runs in the veins of four or five generations of men of piety and
learning and breeding cannot but have influence, and it confirms my
opinion that the piv.-ent Mr William Eraser (who is the fifth) ha-? the
virtues and commendable properties <»f his predecessors all united in him."
This latter MS. was written by the Rev. John Mac.lia, minister of Dingwall,
who died in 1704. I am informed that five others of this family succeeded
the Rev. William Eraser, last named, in Kilmorack, in du
the last of whom was the Rev. Simon Eraser of Kilmorack, who.-e widow
and family now reside in ln\ . . It would be iiitcie.-fing to know
whether the present Rev. Mr Eraser, Eree Church Minister of Kirkhill,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 271
lias any connection with the old Erasers of Kirkhill and Kiimorack;
for he is also fifth in descent of another line of Erasers as ministers of
Kirkhill. The prefix " Mr " is in. all old MS. equivalent to the modern
"Rev." A.M.
BOSSES OF INVERCHARRON.
THE following sketch of the family of Ross of Invercharron, in reply to
Query (11) in last Celtic, is gathered from various Sasines, copied from
the Registers of Sasines for Inverness, between the years 1G06 and
1769 :—
The first mentioned is Alexander Ross of Invercharron, Bailie for the
Lady Annabella Murray, daughter of John, Earl of Tullibardine. His
wife's name is given as Isobell Ro*s. (Sas., Dec. 16, 1606, vol. i., fol.
139.) He appears to have h.ul four sons; William, his heir; Thomas
(Sas. 1606), and two sons, David and Nicholas, who are mentioned by
Sir Robert Gordon as proceeding to the wars in Germany in 1627.
(Hist. Earldom of Sutherland, pp. 402, 450.)
The eldest son, William Ross of Invercharron, married a daughter of
Alexander Mackenzie, first of Davojhmaluak (who died 1531), by Mar-
garet, daughter of Sir William Munro of Eowlis.
The next is Walter Ross of Invereharron, eldest son of the last,
who appears to have sold ihe property in 1625 to " AndreAv Ross, burgess
of Tayne," but to have recovered it the same year on payment of 5000
mei-ks. (Sas. 1625, May 31, vol. iii., fuls. 103, 103, mentioning " Lsobeli
Ross, relict of Alexander Ross of Invercharron, ' mei avi.' ") He married
Isobel, daughter of Andrew Munro of Milton (mentioned in the Sasines
quoted) ; but in a Sasine of 1663 (vol. ii., fol. 57), wherein his father,
William, now a very old man apparently, alienates the lands to his son
Walter, a second wife, evidently, is mentioned, Margaret Gray, relict of
George Murray of Pulrossie.
There is also a sister mentioned, Isobel, married to Andrew Ross of
Sandvaik. (Sas. 1660, vol. vii., fol. 20.)
The children of Walter Ross seem to have been — William, his heir ;
Walter ; Hugh (called Tutor of Invercharron, Sas. 1695, vol. vi., fol. 22);
Janet, married fir-st to Thomas Ross of Priesthill (Sas. 1639), and se-
condly, to Kenneth Mackenzie, first of Scatwell (Sas. 1664) ; and Chris-
tian, mariied to Hugh Macleod of Cambuscarry (Douglas Baronage, page
387).
William Ross of Invercharron married Christian Ross, but does not
seem to have left an heir, as, after the Tutory of Hugh (Sas. 1680, vol. v.,
fol. 61), the next laird mentioned is William Ross ot Invercharron, "sun
of Walter Ross of Invercharron." (Sas. 1708, vol. xiv., fol. 476.) This
William married Helen, daughter of Hugh Ross of Braelang \vell ; and,
after him. there seems an hiatus, since the next Sasine is dated 1763
(vol. xix., fol. 309), and mentions the names only of William Ross of In-
vercharron, and his wife, Anne, daughter of David Ross of Inverchastley.
The last Sasine (1769, Dec. 9, vol. xx., fol. 376) gives the name of las
eldest son only, David Ross.
The above are all the particulars I possess regarding the family in
question, and among them are contained answers to some of the queries
requested by your correspondent " Quill." J. D. M'K.
272 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
THE CIIIE/ OF THE MATIIESOXS.
I EXPECTED that you would yourself have answered in the April number
the query which Appeared in the March issue of your Magazine, as, judg-
ing by your communications to recent numbers of the Courier, you ap-
pear to be well posted up in the History and Genealogy of this ancient
family. You there indicated an opinion that the Chiefship was to be
found among the representatives of the Bennetsfield Mathesons, and you
are probably correct. In any case, it is gratifying to learn, as the result
of the publication of your letters, that male representatives of that branch
still exist in a good position ; the Chief — assuming your deductions
to be well-founded — being Eric, son of the late Colonel James Brook
Young Matheson, of the H.E.I.C.S., now residing on the Continent.
Your correspondent, " Mathon," is quite correct in saying that the
present Matheson of Ardross and Lochalsh does not claim the Chiefship,
although he is undoubtedly descended from a younger son of the ancient
family of Lochalsh. The late Sir James Matheson of the Lews was not
chief of the Mathesons of Sutherland, but he belonged to the principal
family in that county, one of whom was elected Chief of the Sutherland
Mathesons in the beginning of the 17th century, on the recommendation
of Sir Eobert Gordon, author of the " History of the Earldom of Suther-
land."
You are probably acquainted with the " Imaire " MS. History of the
Mathesons, in which the author, Roderick Matheson, claims the honour
of the Chiefship for himself; and it seems clear that his claim must be
disposed of belbre even the Bennetsfield Mathesons can come in ; for he
makes himself out as descended from an elder brother of John Matheson
of Fernaig, from whom you have shown the Bennetsfields to be descended.
There is considerable difficulty in giving a satisfactory answer to such
queries as those asked by " Mathon," and from what I have seen and
heard, you are yourself, perhaps, better able to deal with them than most
people. Might I suggest that you give us a sketch of this Clan in the
Celtic Magazine. It would be a most appropriate sequel to your exhaus-
tive History of the Clan Mackenzie, with whom the Mathesons were in
the past so closely connected. " 0 CHIAN."
[We intend, some day, to adopt the suggestion of our correspondent,
and to give a pretty full sketch of his Clan in the C.M. Wo must, how-
ever, finish the Mackenzies before we can feel in a position to inflict more
of the same kind upon the reader. Meanwhile, we shall be obliged
to " 0 Chian " and others interested, to supply us with any informa-
tion in their possession. We have two copies of the " Imaire " MS. and
other valuable information about the Mathesons in our repositories, but
no doubt much more is procurable. We shall have no great difficulty in
disposing of the " Imaire " claim to the Chiefship when Ave take the mat-
ter up.]
CUTHBERTS OF DRAKIES.
IN reply to " F. Medenham's " query (No. 14) in your last : — In the His-
tory of the Roses of Kilravock (Spalding Club), p. 68 is a mention of
1. Alexander (or James) Cuthtort of East Drakics. who urn-rifil Mar-
garet Vaus of Lochsliu, and died 1547, I find no earlier mention of lids
THE CELTIC MAGAZIKE. 273
family. The next of the name is found in one of the earliest Sasines (see
Secy. Eeg. Sas., Inverness, vol. i., fol. 61, A.D. 1606, June 2), viz. —
2. To Alexander Cuthbert and Christen Dunbar, his spouse, by John
Winchester do Alterlie. over the one part of the lands of Alterlie, called
Brachinche, — and mentioning Margaret Cuthbert, spouse of John Win-
chester. Alexander is called " burgess of Inverness." A sister of his,
Isobel, married John Mackenzie, first of Ord (Seaforth Charters, fol. 207,
1607-39).
3. James Cuthbert of Alterlies and Easter Drakies, son of Alexander
Cuthbert and Christen Dunbar, was Provost of Inverness in 1621, sold the
lands of Lochslin to John Mackenzie (Sas. 1625, fol. 144) ; his wife was
Marie Abercrombie, and he appears as witness in charters or in deeds from
1619 to J638. In 1634 he obtains the lands of Culloden. (Great Seal
Index, 53-153, Sas. 1657.) His children were— Alexander, his heir;
Margaret, married to John Mackenzie of Davochkairne (Gairloch) ;
Christine married David Eose of Earls-miln, who died 1669 (Roses of
Kilravock, p. 530) ; and Mary married William Mackenzie, first of Bel-
maduthy (Sas. to them 1657, fol. 304).
4. Alexander Cuthbert of Easter Drakies has a Sasine, as eldest son
of the last, dated 1650, June 24 ; and his children were, his eldest son,
5. John Cuthbert of Alterlies (Sas, 1666, vol. iii., fol. 55), and Jean,
married to Lachlan Mackinnon of Strorne (Sas. 1680, fol, 70). John is
given as a witness in the Lovat Charters (395) in 1676.
In 1706, among the Lovat Papers (MSS.) appears the sale by
6. David Cuthbert of Drakies of a tenement to the Magistrates of Inver-
ness. This must be the son and successor of John Cuthbert, and in the
Douglas Baronage (p. 361-1) there is mentioned a daughter, Isobel, mar-
ried to John Macpherson of Dalraddie.
These are all the particulars I can find respecting the above family.
J. D. M'K.
a U E R I E 8.
(17) CAPTAIN HUMBERSTONE MACKENZIE. — The enclosed inscription was found on a
tomb near Ahmednugger. I wish to know who the Capt. Humberstone Mackenzie men-
tioned therein was, as he is not named in Findon's " Mackenzie Genealogies." It would
seem from the iuscription that his father was Capt. Mackenzie Humberstoue, the elder
brother of the last Lord Seaforth, but both in the Celtic Magazine and in the " Macken-
zie Genealogies," that gentleman is said to have died unmarried. I have a photograph
of the tomb, with the " Caber Feidh " carved on it : — " On this spot fell at the Storm-
ing of Ahmednugger, on the 8th August 1803, Captain Humberstone Mackenzie, Captain
in H.M. 78th Regiment of Ross-shire Highlanders, son of Captain Mackenzie Humber-
stone, who was killed at his gun in the Mahrattah War in 1783.
"This tomb is also consecrated to the memory ef Captain Grant, Lieutenant Ander-
son, and the non-commissioned officers and privates of the same Regiment, who fell on
that occasion."
7 St Ann's Park Terrace, Wandsworth, S.W. K. E. M'K.
The usual Gaelic Song, with Music, is unavoidably left over.
Y
274 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
DUNTULM CASTLE— A TERRIBLE REVENGE.
IN tlie early history of the Highlands, the Clan Macdonald holds by far
the most prominent position, both as regards numbers and extent of
territory.
At different periods during the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries
we find them holding possession of, or exercising authority over, the
whole of the North West Islands, as well as the Sudereys — the name by
which the southern part of the Western Isles was then called— besides many
places on the mainland, particularly in Argyllshire, whence they got their
secondary title of Thanes of Argyle. From the Island of Lewis southward
to the Isle of Man, they ruled at one time or other. They did not own
subjection to the king of Scotland, but, as Lords of the Isles, and repre-
sentatives of the ancient Earls of Ross, actually entered into treaties and
alliances with the English and other foreign Courts on the footing of
independent princes.
It can easily be understood that, owing to their great numbers and
the scattered and detached character of their possessions, disputes and
divisions were rife amongst them, the chieftains often quarrelling and
engaging in petty wars on their own account, when not actively employed
in fighting the battles of their superior, the Lord of the Isles.
On the death of one of the chiefs, a dispute arose among his followers
as to his successor there being two claimants to the honour — one the
son of the late chieftain, who was supported by the majority of the clans-
men on that ground, but as his character and antecedents had made him
very unpopular, being of an avaricious, cruel, and treacherous disposition,
a good many of the olan espoused the claims of his cousin, a brave, out-
spoken, gallant young man, who had already proved himself a good
soldier and a wise politician.
Finding themselves in a minority, the cousin and his adherents retired
to Uist, whoso inhabitants were favourable to him, for the purpose of
concerting with each other, and organising a scheme for obtaining pos-
session of the Island of Skye and its Castle of Duntulm.
There Was enmity, deep and deadly, between the two cousins, but
their hatred had a longer and deeper root than the contest for supremacy
now raging between them — they were rivals in love as well as in power.
The hoary Castle of Duntulm held a lovely prize, which both the
young men coveted to call his own. Margaret was an orphan, and a
ward of the late Chief. Beautiful, amiable, and accomplished, in addition
to being an heiress, she was the admiration of all the eligible young
gentlemen for miles round ; and often had her hand been sought by the
neighbouring chiefs, but by the terms of her father's will she was to re-
main a ward at Duntulm until she became of age, when two courses were
open to her choice — either to marry the young Lord of the Isles, or to
take the veil Now, as the fair Margaret was a lively, merry girl, fond
•f gaiety and society, the thought of being immured in a convent was
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 275
most distasteful to her ; at the same time she had conceived a great dislike
to her destined husband.
Cupid, that blind and fickle god, had indeed shot one of his random
arrows, which had deeply pierced fair Margaret's breast ; but it was the
cousin instead of the chief to whom her heart owned allegiance.
The knowledge of being beloved by the object ef his adoration spurred
this youth on in the slippery paths of ambition, for, as the fond pair of
lovers would argue, if he could attain to the chiefship, then the letter of
her father's will would be kept, though perhaps not the spirit.
It was no easy task for her admirer to leave his betrothed behind him
when he went to Uist, but there was no help for it. After a few weeks
had passed he determined to risk paying a stolen visit to his beloved
Margaret. He chose a favourable night, and, with only one attendant,
set sail for Skye. On arriving, he left the boat in charge of his com-
panion and carefully made his way to the Castle. Stealthily he moved
forward ; warily he picked his footsteps, keeping well in the shadow of
the Castle walls, for well he knew his life was not worth a moment's
purchase were he discovered by its lord ; yet he dared risk all for one
look, one word, of his dearest Margaret. His well-known signal was
heard with delight ; and with the quickness of a woman's wit a plan was
formed to enable her to meet her lover, whom she lovingly eluded for
running such a danger for her sake.
After the first few joyful moments at thus meeting once more was
over, her lover began to speak seriously of their future movements, and
confided to her a scheme he had been concocting to surprise the Castle
and make himself master of the Island. It was arranged that Margaret
should go to visit the Convent at , the lady superior of which was a
relative of her own, and thus be out of danger during the intended attack
on the Castle. " My plan is," continued he, speaking with earnestness
and determination, " My plan is to cross the sea with all my men at
night, land quietly, and immediately begin to build up with stones every
means of exit from the Castle, and then dig under the foundation until it
is so undermined that it will fak by itself, burying beneath its crumbling
walls our enemy and his principal followers. This will strike such a
panic into the rest of the clan that I have no doubt we shall easily sub-
due them. But now, dearest, I must tear myself away, or I shall be dis-
covered ; haste back to thy chamber, I will wait till I see the light at your
window — I shall then know you are safe."
With loving words and lingering caresses, which seemed to say
Parting is such sweet sorrow
That I could say good night till it be morrow,
the lovers at length separated, full of hopes of a speedy and happy re-
union, which, alas ! was never to be realized. So absorbed were they in
their conversation that neither of them observed the crouching figure of
one of the chief's retainers dodging their footsteps, and listening with
bated breath to all that was spoken at their secret tryst. ,
Nor did anything occur at the Castle to excite Margaret's suspicions
of a discovery. She was allowed to pay her proposed visit to the con-
276 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
vent unopposed, where she waited with ill-concealed impatience the
looked-for news of the attack on the Castle.
The night fixed upon arrived — a stormy, gusty night, the thick drift-
ing clouds obscuring the light of the moon, the dark lowering sky being
fitfully illumined by livid streaks of lightning, Avhile the sound of the
distant thunder re-echoed from the weather-beaten rocks.
Her lover and his men were embarking in spite of the threatening
state of the weather, for, he argued, the more tempestuous the night, the
better chance he would have of taking the castle by surprise, so he and
his willing comrades battled with the wind and waves, and at length
reached the rocky coast of Skye. As their boats grated on the shingly
beach, each man sprang out quietly, and without a word of command be-
ing given, he took his place in the ranks ; freed his right arm from the
folds of his plaid, drew his claymore, and stood waiting the signal to ad-
vance.
" ISTow, my friends, forward," said their leader, as the last man took
his place, "follow me."
They advanced swiftly and noiselessly for about five hur.dred yards,
when the front rank paused in dismayed astonishment, for a flash of
lightning had revealed a momentary glimpse of what appeared a long dark
wall between them and the castle. " What is this, a dyke !" exclaimed
the leader in accents of surprise, " why, there was never a dyke here."
Again the electric fluid illumined the landscape with a vivid glare ; again
the invaders saw the dyke, but they saw it mowng and advancing towards
them ; then the truth burst like a thunderbolt upon the reckless youth
and his party. " 'Tis the Macdonalds — the Macdonalds are upon us !"
were the cries from the bewildered men ; but above all rang out the clear
loud voice of their commander. " Steady, forward, did we not come to
meet the Macdonalds ; why do you hesitate then, forward, my friends ?"
^Recovering from their temporary panic, the courageous clansmen rushed
forward to meet the foe, and also, alas ! to meet their fate ; for the Mac-
donalds came in overwhelming numbers, and after a short but determined
fight, the would-be chief found himself a prisoner, with only three alive
out of his brave band, who were prisoners along with him.
The grey light of early dawn was struggling with the darkness of
departing night as he and his companions in misery were marched under
the frowning portals of gloomy Duntulm ; and before the first rosy gleams
of the rising sun had appeared, ths bodies of his three friends were hang-
ing on the traitors' gibbet in front of the castle, while he was ushered
into the presence of his enraged cousin, who received him with mock
courtesy, thanked him. with a sneer for the honour he had paid him by
coming to visit the castle with such a large retinue ; and with sham apo-
logies for such poor accommodation, conducted him to tho top of the high-
est turret of the building, and, showing him into an apartment, said,
pointing to the table on which was a piece of salt beef, a loaf of bread,
and a large jug, " There is your dinner, which I trust you will enjoy, and
I will now leave you to take a long repose after your late exertions."
The youth bore all these gibes and sneers in silence, and, as the door
closed behind his vindictive kinsman, he threw himself on the floor and gave
way to the gloomy forebodings induced by his melancholy situation,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 277
After a while, he began to speculate on what his fate was to be, and why
his life had been spared. Then, in spite of his despondency, he began to
feel hungry, and going to the table made a hearty meal. " Well," he
soliloquized, " they don't mean to starve me at ariyrate." The beef being
very salt, he soon became thirsty, and he reached out his hand and took
hold of the big stone jug. What means that sudden start 1 why does he
gaze upon the jug with such despairing looks? why doe? he groan so
heavily 1 — the jug is empty ! not a drop of water to quench his raging
thirst ! This, then, is the cruel fate reserved for him. Overpowered with
the dreadful discovery, he sits stunned and motionless, but, hark ! some
one is approaching ; he hears voices, perhaps, after all, it was an oversight.
The hope, faint as it is, inspires him with fresh vigour, and springing up,
he calls loudly to those he hears outside the door. No response is
given to his repeated entreaties for a drink of water ; no response, yet he
plainly hears mens' voices speaking to each other, and a strange inexplicable
noise that he cannot at first comprehend, but as it goes on, he understands
it too well. 'Tis the noise of masons building up the door oi his prison,
evun as he had contemplated building up the doors of the castle, had he
been the victor instead of the vanquished.
Now, indeed, he feels there is no hope for him — that he is doomed to
die one of the most painful and agonising deaths that his enemy's re-
lentless cruelty could suggest — death from thirst made more intense by
the salt beef which the cravings of hunger compelled him to devour.
We draw a veil over his sufferings. No pen, however graphic, could
describe his lingering agonies. Many years after, when the turret was
again opened, there was found a skeleton grasping in its fleshless hands,
part of a stone water jug, the other part of which had been ground to
powder between the teeth of the poor thirst-maddened victim of Duntulm.
Margaret waited at the convent for the news that came all too quickly.
She heard of her lover's defeat, and that he was a prisoner of the cruel
Lord of Dultulm — it was enough. She sought refuge in the cloister,
but her loving heart soon broke under its weight of sorrow ; and, in spite
of the care and attention of the kind nuns, their tender sister pined away,
and in a few short months Margaret was laid to rest in the peaceful
cemetery of the convent.
M. A. ROSE.
DUNVEGAN CASTLE.
TO THE EDITOR OP THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Sm, — Be good enough to allow me to give a short explanation regard-
ing the Gaelic poem, under the above heading, in your last issue. The
278 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
poem was originally composed by my late father, Donald Macleod, the
Skye bard, and has no reference whatever to Duuvegan Castle.
It was published by him in his collection of 1811, and is to be found
on page 173 of that book, under the title of " RANN MOLAIDH DO THIGH
UK." There is also an engraving of the cottage on which it was com-
posed. The circumstances of the case are these : — Their lived in Stein,
on the west coast of Skye, a prosperous country merchant, named Rode-
rick M'Xeill, who was inclined to be a little conceited and vain. My fa-
ther was quite a stripling at the time, and was looked upon as one able
to " make a rhyme and sing a sang " on any worthy occasion. He hap-
pened to go to Stein when Mr M'lfefll'a new house was in course of erec-
tion. The merchant met him, and promised a handsome present
if he would compose a complimentary duan on his new house ; but,
behold, when the duan came to light, instead of my father being presented
with a gift, Mr M'Xeill swore vengeance against him and against his
poetry, for having ridiculed him and his new cottage, in such strong and
extravagant language. I don't think, however, your readers will be dis-
appointed at the result of your investigation about the origin of this poem,
as it served to procure such an interesting note from the pen of one of the
best Celts of the day, the Rev, Alexander Macgregor, M. A., of your good
town of Inverness. The true and graphic account given by him of Dun-
vegan Castle and its romantic surroundings, are valuable items of
information regarding the strange traditions of the past,
As your reverend contributor, Mr M'Calman, admits, there are several
omissions and errors in the copy of the poem he so kindly sent you, but
not sufficiently important to demand particular notice. But if Mr
M'Calman or any of your friends wish for a correct copy of it, I shall be
very glad to supply them. — I am, &c.,
EDINBURGH. N. MACLEOD.
literature.
THE EP1STLK OF PAUL TO THE CHURCHES OF GALATIA, with Introduc-
tion and Notes, by the Rev. JAMES MACGREGOR, D.D., Professor of Systematic
Theology in the New College, Edinburgh. Edinburgh : T. & T. Clark.
THIS is one of a series of Handbooks for Bible Classes, edited by the Rev.
Marcus Dods, D.D., and the Rev. Alexander "Whyte, M.A., designed to
assist "those whose business it is to teach Bible Classes, whether in the
Church, the School, or the Family," and, if the one before us is a fair
specimen of the rest of the series, they will be found eminently suited for
this purpose. It is, howi-vrr, quite outsi.lt' the limits which we have laid
d<>\vii lor ourselves to criticise the general character of such works as these.
We leave Theology and cognate questions to those whose position and
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 279
training qualify them in a proper nunner to deal with such important
themes. The Celtic Magazine, is not inlendrd, nor is it suitable for such
a purpose. Theology is not our forte. We are, however, particularly
struck with Professor Macgregor's learned and most interesting " Intro-
duction " to his Epistle to the Galatians, and being, as it is, purely criti-
cal and historical, it is quite within the legitimate scope of our labours.
The author holds that Galatia, or the Galatian land, is simply another
name for Gaeldachd or Gaeldom — that the Galatians were purely Celtic
in blood as well as in name. They are, on this account, most interesting
to us. They. have been claimed as a Teutonic race ; but in favour of this
contention nothing can be alleged that is not obviously the fond inven-
tion of the vanity of modern Teutons — the Galatian race being the only
one which has been addressed in any Epistle as a race. The Eomans
were a mixed multitude of nationalities. But everything of real evidence,
and of reasonable divination, attainable through language, institutions,
manners, and temperament — all so strangely marked in the Epistle to the
Galatians ; and relative indications of ancient history " point to the con-
clusion that Paul's Galatians were purely Celtic in blood as well as in
name."
The following quotation will give the reader a fair idea of the learned
and interesting nature of this work : —
The name of Galatians (Galatae), of which Celts (Keltac) was a more ancient form
applied to all of Gaulish blood, has somewhat puzzled critics ignorant of Celtic language.
" Why," they perplexedly ask, "not say Gauls (ffalli), not Galatians?" Galatia (Gael-
dachd) is the only name known by a Scotch Highlander for his own "land of the Gauls"
(Gaels) ; while for Scotland at large he has no name but Albania (Albanachd), from
Albion (which he calls Alba), the ancient name of Britain. Galatia (Gaeldachd, as if
Gaeldom) is simply the Gaul country, domain or land of the Gaels ; and Galatae, or
Celtae, the people of that land, is a secondary formation, by foreigners, from this name
of the land. Observe that there never has been a king " of Scotland," nor emperor " of
France." It is " of Scots," " of the French" — the people giving their own name to the
land. Jerome, who had dwelt among European Gauls in his youth, and afterwards
visited Asiatic Galatia, says that the original word Gaul itself was understood to be des-
criptive of fairness or blondness, characteristic of the Gauls in respect of skin and hair.
This suggests geal (" white," whence yealach, " the white one," or " fair one," as proper
name of the moon) ; and this geal, which is nearly the same in sound, is probably asso-
ciated etymologically with the Teutonic gclb (pronounced "yelb," and anciently "yelv,"
whence our " yellow "). Jerome's etymological suggestion may tiius be well-foundtd.
Gaul, or Gael, may originally have meant the "white" or "blond:" Albion (near in
form to yelb) has long been understood to mean " the white land."
The movement of Celts into Asia, about 280 B.C., was a sort of backward eddy of
that great wave of Celtic migration which, after oveispreading Gaul proper, had over-
flowed the Alps and the Pyrenees (witness Gallia Cisalpina and Spanish Cdtiberia), had
travelled south and east along the course of the Danube, and ravaged Northern Greece
in a raid made ever memorable by the pillaging of Delphi. Those Gauls who then crossed
into Asia, at first mere roving invaders, soon became mercenary soldiers, and by and bye
settled down into a district allotted to them, — there are "soldiers' settlements " near
Callander, — which is described a» "bounded by Faphlagonia, Cappadocia, Pontus, andBi-
thynia, and having as its chief cities Ancyra, Pessinus, and Tavium." It will be seen on
the map that this district is a high land, embracing the head waters of the great streams
of Asia Minor. Secure in their mountain fastnesses, the new-comers were troublesome
neighbours, occasionally making forays far into the surrounding lowlands. Though tri-
butary to local monarchs, they retained a certain rude freedom under their own chief-
tains, with a constitution not unlike that of Swiss Cantons under the Hapsburgs. When
overcome by the Romans, 189 B.C., they had far degenerated from that valour, and soft-
ened from that fierceness, which at one time had made them the terror of Upper Asia.
But even after they became a .Roman province, 26 B.C., they retained their Celtic tongue,
with features of character markedly Celtic.
Though addressed by Paul in a Greek Epistle, they may have been preached to only
280 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
in Celtic even by Paul. All over the civilized world knowledge of Greek was then, far
more thai, knowledge of French is now in Europe, an accomplishment of a gentleman ;
BO that the leading men in the Galatian churches would be able to understand a Greek
letter, as leading men in the Outer Hebrides can understand an English letter, — such as
may be sent to the churches of Long Island by the General Assembly. But no minister
who can speak Gaelic will think of preaching there in anything but Gaelic, the language
of the people, which alone they can take in with ease and pleasure. Now we are in-
formed by Jerome that the Galatians spake their own original tongue when he visited
them, four hundred years after they had listened to Paul. (The second of his prefaces
to his Commentary on Gal.)
Ireuaeus, in the preface to his great work on Heresies, apologises for the rustiness of
his Greek on the ground that he has long been in familiar use only of the language of the
Celts. Greek must, have been well known to many inhabitants of his district, whose
chief city, Marseilles, was reckoned almost a Greek city, and Latin to many more, wit-
ness the very name of the district, Provincia (Provence). But Celtic was the common
language of the people there. It is the plan of Providence for the diffusion of the gospel
thtt the peoples should everywhere, so far as practicable, hear in "their own" respect-
ive "tongues the great things of God." A people's " own tongue," the mother tongue,
the language of home, fragrant with memories of home and of childhood with its won-
dering delights, has for the purposes of popular instruction and impression an inimitable
power ; especially when that ton™ue — like Greek, Hebrew, Gorman, Celtic— is one of
those original or uncompounded tongues in which almost every word has a picture for
the imagination and a song for the heart. Hence Irenaeus, learned Oriental though he
was, in his pastoral labours would use only the language of the Celts. Hence our mis-
sionaries labour to attain free use of the mother tongues of heathenism. Hence the
Pentecostal effusion, of preparation for the grand campaign, was characterised by a
miraculous gift of tongues. And there seems no good reason to regard as chimerical the
suggestion that Paul for preaching purposes may hare used the gift in Galatia.
Professor Macgrogor concludes this part of his Introduction thus : —
Unauthentic history, or vague unaccredited tradition, may suggest the not unplea-
sing thought that the Galatian church, though disappearing from the records of the new
kingdom, may have contributed to its progress. That progress was markedly rapid and
great among Celts. Irenaeus, in a letter to the churches of Smyrna and Asia generally,
about a persecution of the Celtic church of Lyons and Vienne, circa A.D. 171, describes
a state of things implying that Christianity must then have been r&oted in that district
for some time. Not long after, Teitullian boasts that in (then Celtic) Britain Christ
has gone with His gospel farther than the Romans have been able to penetrate with tire
and sword. This places a widespread Celtic Christianity within a lifetime of the apos-
tles : Irenaeus was a pupil of Polycarp of Smyrna, who had sat at the feet of John the
Divine. The Celtic churches (e.g. of the Scottish Culdees) long continued to retain some
traces of Orientalism of oiigin, pointing towards Asia Minor as the source of Celtic
evangelization. And the heart as well as the imagination is gratified by the suggestion
thus arising, that the Galatian churches may have sent the gospel to the Celts of Europe.
"We learn from Jerome that in his day their spoken language was in substance what was
spoken by the Treviri— European Celts of Trdves. There is a vague tradition about a
mysterious visitor who came to Britain with the gospel, round by the Straits of Gibraltar
from the Mediterranean Sea. May not this mysterious visitor have been a Christian of
Galatia, perhaps a convert of Paul and a student of this Epistle, who, driven by perse-
cution or constrained by love of Christ, bore the gospel from a Celtic land near the
cradle of mankind, and preached it in the mother-tongue to that Britain which was the
then recognised motherland of the Celts ?
The book is neatly got up in every respect, and, as already said, emi-
nently suited for the purpose for which it is intended.
McCHEYNE IN GAELIC.— We understand that the Eev. Allan
Sinclair, Keumore, is preparing for the press the Sixth Thousand of his
Gaelic Edition of M'Cheyne.
THE
No. XLIV. JUNE, 1879. - VOL. IV.
HIGHLAND AND ISLAND SCENEEY.
BY THE KEY. ALEX. MACGBEGOR, M.A.
II.
WHILE most of the parishes in Skye have natural curiosities peculiar to
themselves, Kilmuir in the north end has its own. The island at large
has deservedly attracted the attention, not only of those who diligently
pry into the "arcana" of science, but also of such tourists as delight in
the contemplation of nature's rudest and most romantic forms. Here are
presented to the stranger's view a variety of most magnificent points of
original beauty. Its lofty hills of rugged outline, covered in part with
blooming heath, and in part denuded of all their verdure by the chilling
blasts of winter, display in their formation a grandeur of figure and form,
which seldom can find a parallel anywhere. In one place the foaming
cataract precipitously rushes over the shelving rocks, and presents a grand
and pleasing contrast to the gentle rivulet that quietly pursues its course
in the valley below. In another, the lofty mountains rear their towering
pinnacles into the clouds, and from their immense altitudes, are seen at
great distances. Here and there valleys are found interspersed with sheets
of water, or little lakes, which beautifully reflect the ragged images of the
impending cliffs. This is truly the " land of mountain and lake ;" yea, it
is, as the poet says :
The land where the cloud loves to rest,
Like the shroud of the dead, on the mountain's cold breast ;
Where the wood girded rocks to the eagles reply,
And the lake her lone bosom expands to the sky !
There are many scenes in the Isle of Skye which merit particular notice,
but of all
In the Hebride Isles,
Placed far amid the melancholy main —
There are none that can exceed Quiraing in the north end of the Island,
as to its particular features. My own humble description of it in the
" New Statistical Account of Scotland," written about 40 years ago, was
the first notice that called the attention of tourists to its romantic beauties.
It is indeed a remarkable formation of nature, and evidently the result of
282 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
some primaeval volcanic eruption. It consists of a secluded piece of level
and fertile ground, concealed in the face of an almost inaccessible preci-
pice. The hill in which it is situated is about 1000 feet in height, and
slopes by a steep declivity towards the west ; but towards the north-east
it presents a face of rugged precipices, much variegated, by being here
and there composed of huge basaltic columns, or massy fragments of fluted
rocks. In other parts larger spaces formed into concave sections, present
themselves to the view, and have a majestic appearance from being ribbed
transversely either by small fissures, or protuberant seams over which a
little rividet drizzles in the moist seasons of the year. In the face of this
huge precipice, Quiraing is enshrined and entirely hidden from the
view of the visitor. He may be told that it is there, but without a guide
he might fail to discover it. This interesting spot consists of a green plot
of ground, as level as a bowling-green, formed into an oblong platform of
sufficient extent to contain six or seven regiments of soldiers. It is
studded all round with massive fragments of rock, jutting up into lofty
peaks, by the intervention of deep chasms, which are, for the most part,
inaccessible. Oil approaching the great inlet to the eagerly looked-for
platform, the passage is much obstructed by heaps of stone and rubbish
which have been washed down from the crevices by the gradual waste of
successive ages. When these obstacles are overcome, the visitor finds
himself at the entrance of a steep passage, which would seem to lead him
to the top of a hill To the right of this entrance stands an isolated pyra-
mid of rock, called the " Needle," which rises perpendicularly to some
hundred feet in height. By considerable exertion the tourist gains
the top of the pass, and beholds with indescribable wonder the scene
which opens to his view. Instead of seeing, as he would expect, some
narrow cave, he beholds, with pleasing disappointment, a spacious opening
before him, in the centre of which stands the already-mentioned platform.
By descending a short distance and threading his way by a small path,
he is instantly led to the beautiful green plain, which was all along his
object to attain. He now stands utterly bewildered, and quite at a loss
what to examine first, or to admire most. He beholds the rocks frowning
aloft, and the rugged cliffs ranging themselves in huge circles around him.
Rocky pyramids like a bulwark encompass the fairy plain on which he
stands. All is felt to be a dreary solitude, yet there is a pleasing beauty
in the silent repose. The golden eagle is seen soaring aloft in the blue
firmament. A panoramic view of the distant sea and district below, is
visible only in detached fragments through the rugged clefts and chasms
between the surrounding pyramids. The rocks which compose these huge
columns are so streaked and variegated, that the visitor's imagination can-
not fail to delineate hundreds of grotesque figures of the wildest description
on their surface. The nature of the day on which this interesting place
is visited has a great effect on its appearance. It is so studded and en-
compassed with columns and pinnacles of all heights, sizes, and figures,
that their flickering shadows on a sunshiny day have an enchanting
effect on all who behold them. Light and shade are then so uncommonly
divided, and so constantly changing positions, that the place in conse-
quence is greatly enhanced in beauty ; but should a dense mist envelope
the spot, as is frequently the case, the scene is greatly changed. Instead
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 283
of being lovely and enchanting, a night-like gloom falls over it, like a
shroud of darkness. The thick mist slowly floating through the pyramids,
and intercepting their rugged pinnacles from the view, give a sombre ap-
pearance to the whole. The visitor's imagination will lead him to think
that the gloomy pyramids before him bind earth a^d heaven together.
He cannot but admire, yet at the same time he is filled with a sort of awe
which causes him to ascribe the marvellous Avorks which lie shrouded be-
fore him to the wonderful doings of that Omnipotent Being Avho created
all things.
At the distance of a feAV miles from Quiraing is a small lake called
" Loch Miaghailt," which discharges its Avaters into the sea by an unseen
subterraneous passage through the rocks. Near where the stream from
this lake spouts out from the precipice may be seen the form of a High-
lander, in full costume, in the face of the rock. From the striking re-
semblance of this cliff to a completely garbed Highlander, it received the
name of " Creag-na-feile," or " the liock of the Kilt," and has been fre-
quently admired by tourists. It can only be seen to advantage from a
little di.sta.nce at sea. In this district of the island, as Avell as around the
west coast of Skye in general, the land is hemmed in by tracts of lofty
perpendicular precipices, mostly formed into huge, parallel, square, round,
and triangular pillars of basalt. South-east of Quiraing is a large and
lofty mountain ridge called the " Storr," Avhich is one of the most inter-
esting formations of nature in the island. The isolated peak of Storr,
projecting to an immense height from the bosom of the adjacent hill, is
seen from afar, and its ragged, irregular outline cannot fail to attract the
traveller's notice at the distance of many miles. To Avar; Is the east, the
Storr presents a range of rugged cliffs, broken into irregular formations,
and rising to an immense height. The various recesses and projections of
this remarkable place render it a scene highly grand and picturesque.
While a fog happens to SAveep the bosom of Storr, appearances like those
of lofty spires, Avails, and turrets, are seen emerging in majestic forms
from the driving mists.
Skye is studded all round with ancient " Duns," or forts, and it is
evident from the situation of these forts that they AArere intended to give
each other an alarm at the approach of an enemy, as they are invariably
found to be in sight of each other. The signal which Avas given, as may
be gathered from ancient tradition and songs, consisted of something
which Avas set on fire, and the burning light Avas held up on the turrets
of the fort by Avhat Avas called the " Crois taraidh," or " Crann-taraidh,"
that is, a fiery-cross or gathering-beam. At times this beam, Avhich con-
sisted of a piece of Avood, half burnt, and dipped in the blood of some
animal, was circulated by emissaries, as a signal of distress. It is spoken
of by Ossian and Ullin, as Avell as by several modern Celtic bards —
Ach ciod so'n solus ann Innisfail,
O chrann taraidh an fhnathaia?
Togaibh bhur siuil, tairnibh bhur raimh —
Grad-ruithibh gu traigh, is buaidh leibh !
But what light is this in Innis-fail,
From the gathering- beam of terror?
Unfurl your sails, ply your oars —
Make haste to- the beach, and may victory be yours !
284 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
The most entire ruin in the north of Skye is the splendid castle of Dun-
tulm, the ancient residence of the illustrious descendants of " Somerled
Rex Insularuin," the Lords of the Isles. Most of these renowned charac-
ters were interred in a plot in the parish burying-ground, called " Eeileag
Mhor Chloiun Donihnuill," or " the large cemetery of the Macdonalds,"
being the spot where a splendid lona cross was lately erected as a monu-
ment to the celebrated Flora Macdonald. In this quarter also is the lake
of St Columba, with its ruined monastery — but the lake is now drained
and converted into arable land. A few miles southward is the beautiful
Bay of Uig, the Castle of Peinduin, Kingsburgh, the Prince's Well, and
other localities of interest. Portree, or " the King's harbour," the capital of
Skye, is a. neat little village, with its three or four banks, as many lawyers,
as many ministers, as many churches and schools, as many hotels, thrice
as many merchants, and one sheriff, one fiscal, one pdson, one mill, — in
short, it is a complete little place with its splendid harbour. It derived
its name from James V., who anchored and remained for some time in
the bay. The scenery all around is romantic and beautiful. Close to the
village is Prince Charles' cave, and opposite to it is the Island of Eaasay.
The south-western portion of Skye is possessed of various objects of
interest. The promontory of Waternish, where a bloody battle took place
between the Macleods of Dunvegan and the Macdonalds of Clanranald
ftom Uist, is well worthy of a visit. At the time of this invasion many
of the Macleods were assembled for worship in the church of Trumpan,
which the enemy surrounded, set on fire, and destroyed the worshippers.
The flames of the church and the fiery-cross soon gathered together a
powerful band of the Macleods, who took full revenge of the Macdonalds
for the cruel slaughtering of their friends. The battle was fought on the
sea-beach at Ardmore. The Clanranalds were cut off to a man, and their
slain received no burial, except a covering of stones from a wall or dyke
that stood near. To this day quantities of their bones are to be seen
among the loose stones on the shore. The Clanranalds received their
reward for this, as we shall see afterwards.
Dunvegan Castle, built on a rock at the head of Loch-Failloirt, and
still the residence of the Macleods, is a very interesting monument of
antiquity. A certain tower in this venerable fortress is said to have been
built in the ninth century, and another tower still higher, was erected by
"Alasdair Crotach " (hump-backed Alexander) in the twelfth century,
but Eory Mor, who was knighted by James VI., united the two towers
by a substantial building erected between them. The fortress was well
guarded by a steep precipice towards the sea, and by a wide and deep
moat behind. There are some ancient relics in this castle to which much
interest is attached, and which are well worthy of inspection. These are
" A Bhratach-Shith," or. the Fairy flag, made of strong yellow silk. Ac-
cording to tradition it is the palladium of the Macleod family, and all their
fortunes hinge upon it. It is said to have been taken as a prize by one
of the Macleods from a Saracen Chief during the crusades, and to possess
great miraculous properties. The second relic in the castle is a cup or
chalice, called "Niall Ghin-Dubh," and it is said to have been taken by
one of the Macleods from an Irish chief of that name. It stands on four
legs, and is belted round Avith silver elegantly engraved, having sockets
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 285
for precious stones, a few of which still remain. The next relic is Eory
M6r's horn — a drinking cup of great dimensions. It is mentioned by
Burns in one of his songs, arid is minutely described by Sir Walter Scott,
in his Lord of the Isles. It requires three ordinary quart bottles to fill
it. The quaffing of its contents in claret, has been reckoned an indis-
pensable ceremony at the inauguration of any of the chiefs of Macleod.
Dunvegan is surrounded by hills. The Greater and Lesser " Helvel," or
Macleod's Tables, are remarkable mountains, that are perfectly flat on the
top, and slope regularly down to their bases. The points of Galtrigil, of
Idrigil, and Waterstein, present huge cliffs towards the sea, and are very
bold and romantic. Near the point of Idrigil, three very romantic basaltic
pillars rise perpendicularly out of the sea, and the highest is upwards of
200 feet in height. They are known as " Macleod's Maidens," and the
natives designate them as the mother and her two daughters, and the old
lady, the highest of the group, is known by the name of " Nic Cleosgeir
Mhoir." The Maidens are seen at great distances, and many curious
legends are connected with them. Sir AV Scott compares them to the
Norwegian. Eiders, or chusers of the slain. The landscape altogether is
one of exquisite grandeur. The scenery shifts at every step, and each
successive view seems to excel the rest. The cloud-capped " Cullin "
rises its inaccessible pinnacles far beyond the other mountains, and is
visible in almost every part of the island. Next in order, Marsco, Beilig,
Blath-Bheinn, Scor-nan-Gillean, Beinn-na-Caillich, Glamaig, and others,
shoot themselves forth in every variety of figure and appearance. But
the most astonishing perhaps of all the scenes is the far-famed " Loch-
Coir- Uisge." On entering the bay of Sgabhaig, the spectator is struck
with the rugged outline presented by the spiry and serrated peaks of the
lofty Cullin. He finds himself surrounded by huge lead-coloured rocks
denuded of all verdure. As he advances, a valley, enclosed by mountains
of the most precepitous character opens to the view, thus encircling and
forming the dark lake of Coir-Uisge. A wonderous place ! It reminds
one of the black Stygian waters of the nether world. Here the poet's
pen and the artist's pencil are at fault, and seem powerless to delineate
the scene aright. The Great Wizard, with his magic pen, has said : —
Rarely human eye has known
A scene so stern as that dread lake,
With its dark ledge of barren stone.
Seems that primeval earthquakes' sway,
Had rent a strange and shatter'd way,
Through the rude bosom of the hill.
And that each naked precipice,
Sable ravine, and dark abyss,
Tell of the outrage still.
The wildest glen, but this, can show
Some touch of Nature's glow ;
On high Benmore green mosses grow,
And heath bells bud in deep Glencroe,
And copse on Cruachan Ben ;
But here, above, around, below,
On mountain or in glen,
Nor tree, nor shrub, nor plant, nor flower,
Nor aught of vegetative power
The weary eye may ken,
For all is rocks at random thrown.
Black waves, bare crags, and banks of stone,
286 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
As if were here denied
The summer sun, the spring's sweet dew,
That clothe with many a varied hue
The bleakest mountain side.
At the base of the Cullins is what is called Loch-Sligachan, a lake
that is much frequented by botanists, as a peculiar plant grows in it,
which is technically called the " Eriocaulon septangulare " — a plant said
to be so rare that it is found in one other place only in all Europe.
Not very distant from the fairy scene of Loch-coir-Uisge is the cele-
brated Spar-cave of Strathaird, called " Slochd-Altraman " by the natives.
It must be viewed by torch-light, and cannot fail to be admired by every
visitor. Its lofty vault is really grand. It is resplendent, with pure white
icicles of semi-transparent spar, and has its roof supported, and its sides
decorated, with massy columns of the same sparkling material. At the
inmost recess is a circular pond formed of shining spar, like a huge marble
basin, several feet deep and wide, and surrounded by the most beautiful
mouldings, as if of pure molten tallow solidified into stone. " This pool,"
says Sir W. Scott, " distinguished by the depth and purity of its waters,
might have been the bathing grotto of a Naiad."
Opposite to this cave, after crossing Loch Eisort to the Sleat district,
is the ancient fortress of " Dunskaith," whose extensive ruins can still be
traced. Ossian relates that Cuchullin, the son of Semo, had his palace at
Dunskaith, and there is a large stone near the castle called " Clach-Luath,"
said to be the stone to which Cuchullin chained his favourite dog,
" Luath," after the chase. The district of Sleat is more like Lowland
than Highland scenery, yet Armadale Castle, the scat of Lord Macdonald,
Isleornsay, the ivy -clad castle of Knock, the view of the opposite coast
of Glenelg, Loch-Hourn, Loch-Nevis, Arisaig, and Morar, are all romantic
and interesting.
All this is but a mere glance at the scenery of this interesting " Isle
of Mist," wherein the forms and colouring of nature are frequently mag-
nificently grand, for even in Skye it does not always rain. Who can view
without a pleasing elevation of mind the tempestuous Atlantic battling
with the fury of the elements ! The Long Island, from the Butt of Lews
to Barra-head — more than a hundred miles — stretches along to the west
of Skye, guarding it, as it were, from the wild swellings of the Atlantic
deep. What can be more beautiful than to witness the clouds of mist
receding, in thickening folds from the mountains to the higher regions of
the atmosphere, and leaving the landscape again to rejoice in the bright-
ness of sunshine. At times they present phenomena-like celestial moun-
tains, tinged with the riches and variety ol prismatic colouring. The
splendour of the morning and evening drapery baffles all description.
The Aurora Borealis, or Polar lights, are often exceedingly brilliant, as
are likewise the solar rainbow, and the lunar halo. Such luminous
meteors certainly surpass in magnificence any appearances of the kind
in other parts of the Kingdom.
The natives have frequently to encounter many storms in their boats
and sailing crafts, and are at times exposed to great dangers. Mr Robert
Buchanan beautifully describes a night on Loch Eribol, and translates
the Gaelic melody sung by one of the boatmen. He says : — " It is a
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 287
summer night ; and we are lying in the stem of the fishing skiff, rowed
by two stalwart boatmen. As we glide along under the black shadow of
the hills, one of the men is crooning to himself, in a low sort of under-
tone, a weird Highland melody, one of those exquisitely beautiful tunes,
which are half a recitative, half a melody, oratory set to cadence, and
sparkling into music, just as a fountain tops itself with spray. The ditty
he is singing may be rendered into English words as follows, but no
translation can convey the deep pathos arid subtle sweetness of the
original : —
O mar a tha mi ! 'tis the wind that's blowing,
O mar a tha mi ! 'tis the sea that's white, —
'Tis my own brave boatman was up and going
From Uist to Barra at dead of uight.
Body of black and wings of red,
His boat went out on the stormy sea.
O mar a tha mi ! can I sleep in my bed ?
Mo ghille dubh ! come back to me !
O mar a tha mi ! is it weed out yonder ?
O ! is it weed or a tangled sail ?
On the shore I wait, and watch, and wonder,
It's calm this day, but my heart is pale.
O ! this is the skiff with wings so red,
And it fl >ats upturned on the glassy sea.
O ! mar a tha mi ! is my boatman dead ?
O ! ghille dhuibh ! come back to me !
O ! mar a tha mi ! 'tis a corpse that's sleeping,
Floating there on the weeds and sand ;
His face is drawn, and his locks are dreeping,
His aims are stiff, and he's clenched his hands.
Turn him «p on his sandy bed,
Clean his face from the weed o' the sea.
O ! mar a tha mi ! 'tis my boatman dead !
O ! ghille dhuibh ! won't you look at me ?
O ! mar a tha mi ! 'tis my love that's taken !
O ! mar a tha mi ! I am left forlorn !
He'll never kiss, and he'll never waken,
He'll never look on the babe unborn.
His blood is water, his heart is lead,
He's dead and slain by the cruel sea.
O ! mar a tha mi ! I am lone in my bed,
Mo ghille dxibh ! is away from me !
Many things of deep interest might be related of the other islands
southward of Skye. Eigg, Eum, Soa, Muck, Canna, have all their fea-
tures of beauty. Around the coast of Eigg there are numerous caves, and
some of them are wide and spacious. Among these is " Uamh Fhraing,"
or the Cave of Erancis, which is so narrow in the mouth that a person
must creep on hands and knees to obtain an entrance ; but within it is
loity and wide, and extends in length to about 220 feet. Of old the
island belonged to Clanranald, and it was peopled with about 500 souls.
The natives one day observing a number of galleys approaching the isle,
knew well that they were filled with their feudal enemies, the Mac-
leods of Dunvegan. They knew well that they had left Skye, to be
revenged of them for the massacre and burning at the church of Trumpan.
Trembling with fear, the Eigg men retired in despair to this cave, their
only refuge. The Macleods landed, traversed the whole island amid
a densely falling snow, and as they could not discover a human being
288 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
in all the place, they concluded that they had nvide their escape to the
mainland. They ransacked and pillaged the whole isle — every house
and hamlet ! Disappointed and enraged they set sail at day-break next
morning for Skye. Unfortunately the prisoners in the cave sent out a
messenger that morning to spy the motions of the enemy. Not seeing
their galleys in the bay of Laig, where they had anchored, he ascended to
the top of Sguir, a lofty, precipitous hill in the island, to ascertain if the
hostile lleet had sailed for home. He was observed by the Macleods on
the pinnacle of Sguir, when immediately they turned back to the bay
which they had left, and found the foot prints of the ill-fated spy in the
snow. By this means they soon discovered the place where the wretched
inhabitants lay in concealment. With the most savage barbarity the
Macleods collected the furniture, straw, bedding, and all such combus-
tibles from the hamlets around, set fire to the whole at the mouth of the
cave, and suffocated to death every soul of th". miserable inhabitants. I
visited the cave about forty-five years age, and then the skulls and scat-
tered bones within it — ghastly to look at — would fill a large van.
With Ardnamurchan, Mull, Oban, Inveraray, the whole coast of Argyle-
shire, and the southern Hebrides, I shall not weary the reader. Islay,
Colonsay, and Jura, and the dangerous whirlpool of Corriebhreacain, have
individually their objects of interest, but none so much so as Staffa, with
its thundering cave, and lona, with its many sacred relics. So much was
the stern moralist, Johnson, himself affected by the scene, that he walked
with uncovered head over the graves of kings, and through the ruins of
the religious edifices, and was forced to exclain : — " We are now treading
that illustrious island which Avas once the luminary of the Caledonian
regions, Avhence savage clans, and roving barbarians derived the benefits of
knowledge and the blessings of religion."
Tradition says that St Columba, a little before his death, uttered the
following prediction to his dj.sciples :
Ann I mo chridhe, I mo ghraidb,
Ann aite guth Manaich, bithidh geum ba ;
Acb mu'n tig an saogbal gu cricb,
Bithidh I mar a bba !
In tbe Isle of my heart, the Isle of my love,
Instead of a Monk's voice, there shall be the lowing of cattle,
But ere the world comes to an end,
lona shall flourish as before.
We have noAv finished our notes on the scenery of the Highlands, and
regret the hurried and imperfect manner in which this interesting subject
had been treated. That scenery is IIOAV happily Avithin the reach of every
lover of nature's works, Avho can afford the means and time to visit it.
"Now," says Wilson, "the Avhole Highlands, Avestern and northern, may
"be commanded in a month. Xot that any one Avho knows Avhat they
are Avill imagine that they can be exhausted in a less time. Steam has
now bridged the Great Glen, and connected the two seas." Railways
have reached to the far north, and haAje brought John O'Groat's and the
Land's End into close felloAvship. Salt and fresh Avater lochs, the most
remote and Inaccessible, are brought Avithin the reach of a summer day's
voyage. In a Aveek, or tAVo at the most, a joyous company can gather all
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 289
the mainland shores, leaving not one magnificent bay uncircled, and hav-
ing rounded St Kilda and the Hebride Isles, and heard the pealing anthem
of waves in the cave-cathedral of Staffa, may bless the tolling of St
Mungo's bells on the following Sabbath day.
We would fain say a few words 011 the character and life of the High-
landers, but are at present unable even to touch that interesting subject.
It is impossible that the minds of travellers through those wonderful
regions can be so occupied with the contemplation of mere inanimate
nature, as not to give many a thought to their inhabitants, both now and
in the olden times ! " We love the people too well," said Wilson, " to
praise them. We have had too heartfelt experience of their virtues to
forget them. In castle, hall, house, manse, hut, hovel, shieling, on moun-
tain and moor, we have known, without having to study their character."
They are now, as they ever were, affectionate, faithful, and fearless — and
severe as have been the hardships of their condition, they are contented
and peaceful — yet nothing short of dire necessity can dissever them from
their dear mountains and glens ! While the fierceness and ferocity which
characterised them in the turbulence of feudal times, have vanished away,
long may they prosper as loyal subjects, retaining their places, their pro-
fessions, their chiefs, their songs, their traditions, their peculiar customs,
their dress, and above all, that noble language of theirs, which is the sub-
ject of so much general interest and excitement in the present day !
THE HIGHLAND DRESS AND THE DISARMING ACT
AFTER THE FORTY-FIVE.— Some opinion may be formed of the
importance Avhich Government attached to the garb by the following oath,
administered in 1747 and 1748 in Fort-William and other places where
the people were assembled for the purpose, those who refused to take it
being treated as rebels : — " I, A. B., do swear, 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 whatsoever, and never use tartan, plaid, or
any part of the Highland garb ; and if I do so, may I be cursed in my
undertakings, family, and property, — may I never see my wife and child-
ren, father, mother, or relations ; may I be killed in battle as a coward,
and lie without Christian burial in a strange land, far from the graves of
my forefathers and kindred ; may all this come across me if I break my
oath." The framers of this oath understood the character of the High-
landers. The abolition of the feudal power of the chiefs, and the Dis-
arming Act, had little influence on the character of the people in com-
parison Avith the grief, indignation, and disaffection occasioned by the loss
of their garb. — Stewart's Sketches of the Highlanders.
290 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
DEATH OF DR NORMAN MACLEOD.
THE following lines on the death of the late l)r Norman Macleod, of the
Barony Parish, Glasgow, were written by me in St Petersburg, in Sep-
tember 1873, but they have never been in print ; and I send them in case
you might like to give them a corner in the Celtic Magazine : —
Thy warfare's o'er, great chieftain, now's thy rest,
" Beyond the voices " of tumultuous time,
Quenched is the genial glow that warmed thy breast,
And made the beauties of thy life sublime.
Sleep soundly near the old beloved home,
Where often thou life's golden dream did weave ;
Sleep soundly by the hills o'er which did roam
Thy youthful feet on many a joyous eve.
We mourn the silence of thy noble voice,
That charmed the ears, and swayed the hearts of men,
That made their souls with purest joy rejoice,
And brought life's hidden things within their ken.
Ah ! thou, Avith sympathy's own magic touch,
Could heal life's broken springs, and bring again
Sweet music from the chords where over much
Of care and sorrow had left only pain.
And with thine eloquence thou couldst unlock
The worldling's heart, and bring his hoarded gold
Like streams of water from the flinty rock
To bless life's poor ones — hungry, faint, and cold.
And 'midst thy greatness and thy power, thou
With grace and tenderness did'st rich abound,
Like a great rock whose high majestic brow
With simple ivy and with heath is crowned.
Thou, like thine own " Wee Davie," had become
A glorious centre Avhere affections met,
Where sweet good-will had found a gladsome home,
From which to scatter drizzling clouds of jet.
Monarch and peasant claimed thee as a friend,
Their loves met, beauteously around thee twined ;
And as in life, so in thy latter end,
Sweetly Avas lowliness with state combined.
They laid thee to thy rest beneath thy plaid,
The Highland plaid that thou didst love so well,
And o'er it proudly gentle hands had laid
The Queen's sweet offerings of immortelles.
Sleep soundly near thine old beloved home,
Till the great morn in golden light Avill break,
Sleep soundly till God's mighty voice Avill come
In joy and gladness to bid thee awake.
MARY MACKELLAB.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 291
HISTORY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE.
BY THE EDITOR.
[CONTINUED. |
THE MACKENZIES OF GAIRLOCH.
THE family of Gairlocli is descended from ALEXANDER, SIXTH BARON OP
KINTAIL, known among the Highlanders as "Alastair lonraic," by his
second Aviie, Margaret, daughter of Macdonald of Morar, called by the
Highlanders " Mac Dh.ugb.ail," or Son of Dougal. There is a considerable
difference of opinion among the genealogists and family historians respect-
ing Alexander's wives. Edmonston, in his " Baronagium Genealogicum,"
and Douglas, in his " Peerage," says that Alexander's first wife was Agnes,
sixth daughter of Colin, first Earl of Argyll. This, we think, can be
shown to be absolutely impossible. Colin succeeded as a minor in 1453,
his uncle, Sir Colin Campbell of Glenurchy, having been appointed his
tutor. Colin of Argyll was created Earl in 1457, probably on his coming
of age. He married Isabel Stewart of Lorn, and had two sons, and, ac^
cording to Crawford, five daughters. If he had a daughter Agnes she
must have been his eighth child. Assuming that Argyll married when
he became of age, about 1457, Agnes, as his eighth surviving child, could
not, in all probability, have been born before 1470. Her reputed hus-
band, Alexander of Kintail, was then close upon 70 years of age, having
died in 1488, bordering upon 90, just at a time when his reputed wife
would barely have arrived at a marriageable age, and Avhen her reputed
son, Kenneth a Bhlair, pretty well advanced in years, had fought the
famous Battle of Park. John of Killin, her reputed grandson, was born
in 1480, when at most she could only have been 10 to 15 years of age,
and at the age of 33 he fought at Flodden, where Archibald, second Earl
of Argyll, this lady's brother, and at least ten years younger than her,
was slain. How could these things be? Further comment would be
superfluous.
The same difficulty has arisen, from what appears to us to be a very
simple cause, about his second marriage. The authors of all the family MS.
histories are unanimous in stating that Alexander's first wife was Anna,
daughter of Macdougall of Lorn, or Dtmollich. Though the direct line
of the house of Lorn ended in two heiresses, who, in 1838, carried away
the property to their husbands — the Stewarts of Invermeath — the Mac-
dougalls of Dunollich became the male representatives of that ancient and
illustrious house ; and this fully accounts for the discrepancy and con-
fusion about the families of Lorn and Dunollich in some of the family
histories.
Regarding Alexander's second marriage the same authorities, who
affirm that Agnes of Argyll was his first wife, assert that Anna Macdou-
gall was his second. There is ample testimony that she was his first,
though some confusion has again arisen in this case from a similarity of
names and patronymics. Some of the family MSS. say that Alexander's
second wife was Margaret, daughter of "M'Couil," "M'Chouile," or " Mac-
292 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
dougal " of Morir, or Morar, while several others, among them the Allan-
grange " Ancient " 31 S., say tliat she was " MacRanald's daugliter." The
Ardintoul M.S. has it that she was "Muidort's daughter." One of the
(Jail-loch M-SS. in our p-is-n-ssion say.s that she was "Margarite, the
daughter of the Macdonald of Morar, of tlie Clan Ranald Race from the
Stock of Donald, Lord of the .Klnuhe Islands," while in another, also in
our possession, she is described as " Margaret Macdonald, daughter of
Macdonald of Morar." There is here an apparent contradiction, but it
can be shown, we think, Avith perfect accuracy, that the lady so variously
described was one and the same person. Gregory, in his " Highlands
and Isles of Scotland," p. 158, clearly shows that this Macdougalwas the
patronymic of one of the Families of Clan Ranald of Moydart and Murar.
Speaking of Dougal MacRanald, son and successor to Ranald L'an Ran-
aldson of Moydart, he says, " Allan, the eldest son of Dougal, and the
undoubted male heir of Clan Ranald, acquired the estate of Morar, which
he transmitted to his descendants. He and his successors were always
styled, in Gaelic, MacDhughaiJ Mhorair, i.e., MacDougal of Morar, from
their ancestor, Dougal MacRanald." At p. G5 he informs ns that " the
Clan Ranald of Garmoran comprehended the families of Moydart, Morar,
Knoydart, and Glengarry," and that they were descended from Ranald,
younger son of John of the Isles, by his marriage with the heiress of the
MacRorys, or MacRuairies of Garmoran, whose ancestry, from Somerled
of the Isles, is as illustrious as that of any family in Britain. A district
north of Arisaig is still known among the Western Islanders as " Mor-thir
Mhic Dhughail," or the mainland possession of the sou of Dougal. The
MS. histories of the Mackenzies, having been all written after the pat-
ronymic of " MacDhughail" was acquired by the Macdonalds of Moydart
and Morar, naturally enough called Alexander of Kintail's second wife, a
daughter of Macdougal of Morar, or Muidort, and of Clan Ranald indis-
criminately, for all these designations applied to the same family.
Alexander was twice married, first to Anna, daughter of Macdougall
of Dunolly ; secondly to Margaret, daughter of Clan Ranald, by whom
he had
I. HECTOR ROY MACKENZIE, generally known as " Eachainn Ruadh,"
the first of the family of Mackenzie who obtained possession of Gairloch.
Hector played such an important part in the history of his time that it
will be necessary to describe somewhat in detail the various matters of
moment in which he was concerned. This has been, to some extent,
already done in his capacity of Tutor or Guardian to his nephew, John of
Killin, IX. of Kintail.
It has been conclusively established that Kenneth Mackenzie
(a Bhlair), VII. of Kintail, died in 1491, and that his son, Kenneth Og,
killed in the Torwood by the Laird of Buchanan in 1497, outlived him
and became one of the Barons of Kintail, though there is no account of
his ever having been served heir. It has been affirmed that Duncan,
Kenneth a Bhlair's elder brother, predeceased him, and that, consequently
Hector Roy succeeded in the usual way, he being the eldest surviving
brother of the Chief, as legal guardian of Kenneth Og. We have not
been able to establish this assertion ; but Duncan's name does not appear
after his brother's death in 1491 in any of the MS. histories of the Clan
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 293
nor in any official document that we have seen in connection with it. The
writer of the Ardintoul MS. informs us distinctly that Duncan was dead,
and that Hector, his (John's) younger uncle " meddled with the estate."
The Earl of Cromarty says that " Hector Eoy, being a man of courage
and prudence, was left Tutor by his brother to Sir Kenneth, his owin
brother-vterin Duncan being of better hands than head. This Hector
heiring of Sir Kenneth's death, and finding himself in possession of ane
estait, to which those only now haid title whose birth-right wes debatable,
viz., the children begot by Kenneth the 3d on the Lord Lovat's daughter,
with whom he did at first so irregularly and unlawfully cohabit." This
objection, however, could not have applied to Duncan, nor to his son
Allan, and it is difficult to understand on what ground Hector could have
attempted to obtain possession of the estates for himself, unless it be true,
as established to some extent hereafter, that he was joint heir of Kintail ;
for it is beyond question that Allan, Duncan's eldest son and heir, who
was entitled to succeed before Hector, was then alive. There is no evidence
whatever to show that Hector Eoy was at any time appointed Tutor to
John of Killin until an arrangement was finally made between themselves,
by which Hector was to act as such, and to keep the estates in his own
hands, until John came of age.
Hector was undoubtedly in possession of vast estates in his own right
at this period. When the factious party of the nobility, known as the
Lords of the Association, took up arms against King James III., Alex-
ander of Kintail sent his sons, Kenneth and Hector, with a retinue of 500
to join the royal standard ; but Kenneth, hearing of the death of his aged
father on his arrival at Perth, returned home at the request of the Earl of
Huntly; and the Clan were led by Hector Eoy to the battle of Sauchie-
burn, near Stirling ; but after the defeat of the King's forces, and the
death there, in 1488, of the King himself, Hector, who narrowly escaped,
returned to Eoss-shire and took the stronghold of Eedcastle, then held by
Eose of Kilravock for the rebels, and placed a garrison in it. He then
joined the Earl of Huntly and the other clans in the North who were
again rising, to avenge the death of the King ; but meanwhile orders
came from the youthful James IV., who had been at the head of
the conspirators, ordering the Northern chiefs to lay down their arms,
and to submit to the existing state of things. Thereupon Hector, yielding
to necessity, submitted with the rest, and he was "not only received into
favour, but, to reward his past fidelity, and also to engage him for the
future, the young King, who at last saw his error, and wanted to reconcile
to him those who had been the friends of his father, made him a present
of the Barony of Gairloch in the western circuit of Eoss-shire, by knight-
service after the manner of that age. He likewise gave him Brahan in
the low country, now a seat of the family of Seaforth, the lands of Moy,
in that neighbourhood, and, afterwards, Glasletter (of Strathglass), a royal
forest which was made a part of the Barony of Gairloch. Not far from
the pleasant valley of Strathpeffer is the Castle Leod, part of Hector's
paternal estate, afterwards a seat of the Earl of Cromarty ; Achterneed,
near adjacent, also Kinellan, were likeAvise his, and so was the Barony of
Allans, now Allangrange, a few miles southward. In the chops of the
Highlands he had Ferburn the Wester, and both the Scat wells, the
294 THE CELTIC MAGAZIXE.
Greater and the Less. Westward in the height of that country he had
Kenlorhew, a district adjoining to Gerloch on the east, and southward
on the same tract lie had the half of K'ntinil, of which he was left joint-heir
icith Ills brother Kenneth, Chief of the family"*
The original charters are now lost, hut a "Protocol" from John de
Vaux, Sheriff of Inverness, whose jurisdiction extended to the Northern
counties, is conclusive as to their having existed : — " To all ande
syndri to quham it afferis to quhays knawledge thir present letres sail to
cum Johnne the Vaux hurges off Dygvayll and Shireff in this pairt sendis
gretyng in Gode cuerlastande to yhur vniuersite (you universally) I make
it knawyne that lie the commando off our souerane lordis letres and
precess under his quhyt wax direct(ed) to me as shireff in that part past,
and grantis me to half gwyne to Hector McKennych herytabyll stayt and
possessioune of all and syndri the landis off Gerloch with tliair pertinens
after the forme and tenor off our souerane lordis charter nmide to the for-
saide Hector tharvpone the quhylkis land with their pertinens extendis
yherly to tuelff inerkis off aulde extent lyande betwix the watteris callyde
Innerew and Torvedene within the Shireffdoinc of Inuerness ande I grant
me to haffgyffyne to the for.sr.ide Hector Herytabyll state and possessioune
of all and syndri the forsaide landis with thair pertynens sail'unde vtheris
menis rychtis as owys (use) and custum is charge — and in our souerane
lordis nayme and myn as Shireff that nay man vex inquiet nor strubyll
(trouble) the said Hector nor his ayris in the pecyabyll brukynge and
joysinge (enjoyment) of the landis forsaide* vnder all payne and chargis
that eftcr may folow in wytness off the quhylkis I haff append to thir
myn letres off sesyng my seyll at Alydyll ('? Talladale) in Garloch the x
day of the moneth off December the zher off Gode ane thousande four
hundreth nynte and four zheris befor thir witnes Schir Doull Kurysone
vicar of Urch.irde, Murthy beg, Mak murquho, Johnne Thomassone,
Kenneth Mcynleyssoune ; Donalde Mcynleyssoune ; Doull Euresone,
and Duncan Lachlansoune serieande with vtheris diuerse."
The next authentic document in his favour is a Precept, by the King
to the Chamberlain of Ross, commanding him to obey a former precept
given to Hector Eoy Mackenzie of the males, &c., of Braane and Moy, as
follows : — " Chalmerlane of Eoss, we grete you weill fforsamekle as we
direct(ed) oure speciale letres to you obefor (of before) making mentioun.
that we had gevin to oure louit Hector Roy Makkenze the males and pro-
ifites of oure landis of Braane and Moy with ariage cariage and vther
pertinence tharof lyand within oure lordschipe of Rosse for his gude and
thankfull service done and to be done to us induring oure will and that
it was oure will that he had broukit and joisit (enjoyed) the saidis landis
with all proffitis tharof induring our will and sa the tenandis now inha-
bitaris tharof brouk thare takkis and nocht removit tharfra, the whilk
letres as we are sekirlye (surely) informit ye disobeit in great contemp-
tioun and lichtleiug of our autoritie riale (royal authority). Herfor we
charge you zit as obefor that ye suffir the said Hector to brouk and jois
the saidis landis and tak vp and haue all males fermez proffitis ariage
* MS. History of th« Family of Gairloch. Another MS. says that bis possessions
in Kintail were " bounded by the rivers of Kilfilene an Croe."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 295
cariage and deu serui.ce of the saidis landis and that the tcnandis and in-
habitaris tharof to answer and obey to him and to nane vthcris quhill
(till) we gif command be our speciale letres in the contrar, and this on na
wise ye leif vndone as ye will incur our indignatioun and displeasour.
Thir our letrez sene and vnderstand deliuer thame agane to the berar to
be kepit and schevin be the said Hector apoun compt for your warand
befor our Comptrollar and auditoriouis of our chekkev at your nixt
compt, and after the forme of our said vther letres past obefor gevin
vnder our signet at Edinburgh the fift day of Marche (1508) and of Eegne
the tuenty zere. (Signed) " JAMES E."
It will thus be seen that Hector Roy had extensive possessions of his
own, and the dispute between him and his nephew, John of Killin, fully
described in previous numbers,* has probably arisen in respect of Hector's
rights to the half of Kintail which his father had left him jointly with
his eldest brother, Kenneth a Bhlair, VII. of Kintail. He kept posses-
sion of Islandonain Castle until compelled by an order from the Privy
Council to give it up to John Of Killin in 1511,t and it appears from
proceedings before the Privy Council that, from 1501 to 1508, Hector
continued to collect the rents of Kintail without accounting for them ;
that he again accounted for them for one year, in 1 509 ; and for the two
following years the second time retained them, while he seems to have
kept undisturbed possession of the stronghold of Islandonain throughout.
"VVe can find no record of his answer to the summons to appear before the
Privy Council, if he ever did put in an appearance, but in all probability
he kept possession to compel his nephew to come to terms with him
as to his joint rights to Kintail, without any intention of ultimately
keeping John of Killin out of possession. This view is strengthened by
the fact that John obtained a new charter under the Great Seal granting
him Kintail anew on the 25th of February 1 508-9 J — the same year in
which Hector Eoy received a grant of Jirahan and Moy — probably fol-
lowing on an arrangement of their respective rights in those districts ;
also from the fact that Hector does not appear to have fallen into dis-
favour with the Crown for his conduct towards John of Kintail ; for
only two years after he brought the action against Hector before the
Privy Council, he receives a rew charter, under the Great Seal, of
Gairloch, Glasletter, and Coirre-nan-Cuilean, dated 8th of April
1513,§ "in feu and heritage for ever," and he and his nephew appear
ever after to have lived on the most friendly terms. Gairloch, originally
the possession of the Earls of Eoss, and confirmed to them by Eobert
Bruce in 1306 and 1329, was granted by Earl William to Paul M'Tyre
and his heirs by Mary Grahame, for a yearly payment of a penny of silver
in name of blench feme in lieu of every other service except the foreign
service of the King when required. In 1372 King Eobert the II. con-
firmed the grant. In 1 430 King James I. granted to Nele Nelesoun (Neil
son of Neil Macleod) for his homage and service in the capture of his
deceased brother, Thomas Nelesoun, a rebel, the lands of Gaiiioch.||
* Celtic Magazine, vol. hi., pp. 216-221 and 242-244.
t Acts of the Privy Couucil xxii., fol. 142. For copy of Decree see Celtic Magazine,
vol. iii., pp. 2423.
J Reg. of the Great Seal, vol. xv., fol. 89.
§ The original charter is in the Gairloch Charter Chest.
|1 Origines Parochiales Scotiae, vol. ii. p. 406.
296 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Though Hector Hoy Avas in possession of Crown Charters to Gairloch,
he found it most difficult to obtain possession from the Madrods, and
their chief, Allan MacRory Macleod, This Allan married, first, a daughter
of Alexander lonraic, VI. of Kintail, and sister of Hector Roy, by whum
he had issue two or three sons. He married, secondly, a daughter of Rode-
rick Macleod of the Lews, by whom he had one son. Roderick deter-
mined to murder all the male iss\ie of the Macleods of Raasay, and those
of Gairloch by Mackenzie's daughter, that his own grandson, by Allan's
second marriage, might succeed. With this view he invited all thejnem-
bers of the two families — Avith whom lie was connected by his marriage
with the widow of Mackay of Reay, a daughter of Mackenzie of
Kintail — to the Island of Isay,* pretending that he had matters of great
consequence to communicate to them; All the members of both families
and their more immediate relatives and friends accepted the invitation.
Roderick feasted them sumptously, on their arrival, at a great banquet.
In the middle of the festivities he informed them of his desire to have
each man's advice separately, and that he would afterwards make known
to all of them the momentous business to be considered, and Avhich con-
cerned each of them most closely. He then retired into a separate apart-
ment, and called them one by one, when they were each, as they entered,
stabbed with dirks through the body by a set of murderous villains whom
he had appointed for the purpose. Not one of the family of Ruasay was
left alive except a boy nine years of age, who was being fostered from
home, and who had been sent privately, when the news of the massacre
had gone abroad, to the Laird of Calder, who kept him in safety during
his minority. He afterwards obtained possession of Rnasay, and became
known as Gillechallum Garbh MacGhillechallum. Macleod of Gairloch's
sons, by Hector Roy's sister, were all murdered. Roderick placed his
own grandson in an inner room, where, walking with his brutal relative,
he heard one of his brothers cry on being stabbed by the assassins
dirk, and said " Yon's my brother's cry." " Hold your peace," old Rory
replied, " yonder cry is to make you laird of Gairloch; he is the son of
one of Mackenzie's daughters." The boy, dreading his own life might
be sacrificed, held his tongue, " but afterwards he did what in him lay in
revenging the cruel death of his brothers and kinsmen on the murtherers."t
The same writer informs us that "this was the first step that Hector Roy
Mackenzie goto to Garloch His brother-in-law, Allan Mac-
leod, gave him the custody of their rights, but when he found his
nephews were murdered, he took a new gift of it to himself, and going to
Garloch with a number of Kintail men and others, he took a heirschip
Avith him, but such as Avere alive of the Shiol 'ille Challum of Garloch,
foiloAved him and fought him at a place called Glasleoid, but they being
beat Hector carried away the heirschip. After this and several other
skirmishes they Avere content to allow him the tworthirds of Garloch,
providing he would let themselves possess the other third in peace, Avhich
he did, and they kept possession till Hector's great-grandchild put them
from it."
The Earl of Cromarty, and the other MS. historians of the family, cor-
* This island is near Dunvegan in Skye. t Ancient MS. History.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 297
roborate this. Earl George says that Hector " incited to revenge " by the
foul murder of his nephews, made some attempts to oust the Macleods
from Gairloch during John of Killin's minority, but was not willing to
engage in a war with such a powerful chief as Macleod of Lews, while he
felt himself insecure in his other possessions, but after arranging matters
amicably with his nephew of Kintail, and now being master of a fortune and
possessions suitable to his mind and quality, he resolved to avenge the
murder and to " make it pioductive of his own advantage." He sum-
moned all those who were accessory to the assassination of his sister's
children before the Chief Justice. Their well-grounded fears made them,
absent themselves from Court. Hector, according to another authority,
produced the bloody shirts of the murdered boys, whereupon the mur-
derers were declared fugitives and outlaws, and a commission granted in
his favour for their pursuit, " which he did so resolitly manadge that in
a short tyme he kiled many, preserved some to justice, and forced the
remainder to a compositione advantagious to himselt'e. . . His successors,
who were both active and prudent men, did thereafter accquire the rest
from their unthrifty neighbours." The greatest defeat that Hector evev
gave to the Macleods " was at Bealach Glasleod, near Kintail, where most
of them were taekin or killed." At this fight Duncan Mor na Tuaighe,
who so signally distinguished himself at Blar-na-Pairc, was present with
Hector, and on being told that four men were at once attacking his son
Dugal, he answered, " Well, if he be my son there is no hazard for that,"
a remark which turned out quite true, for the hero killed the four Mac-
leods, and came off himself without any serious wounds,*
In acknowledgment of the King's favour, Hector gathered his imme-
diate followers in the west, joined his nephew, John of Killin, with his
vassals, and fought, in command of the Clan, at the disastrous battle of
Flodden, from which both narrowly escaped ; but most of their followers
were slain. Same time after his return he successfully fought the des-
perate skirmish at Druim-a-chait, already referred to, Avith only 140
men against 700 of the Munros, Dingwalls, Maccullochs, and other tribes,
under the command of William Munro of Fowlis, on which occasion Sheriff
Yass of Lochslin was killed at a bush near Dingwall, " called to this day
Preas Sandy Vass," or Alex. Vass's bush, a name assigned to it for that
very cause.t This battle has been already fully described.^
Hector, during his life, granted to his nephew, John of Killin, his
own half of Kintail, Kinellan, Fairburn, Wester Brahan, and other pos-
sessions situated in the Low Country, which, as will be seen hereafter,
brought his son, John Glassich, into trouble. §
Hector Eoy was betrothed to a daughter of the Laird of Grant, but
she died before the marriage was solemnised. He however had a son by
" Duncaa in bis old days was very assisting to Hector, Oarlock's pi edecessor,
against the Macleods of Garloeh, for he, with his son Dugal, whe was a strong, prudent,
and courageous man, with ten or twelve other Kintuilrnen, were alwise, upon tk'e laast
advertisement, ready to go and asei«t Hector, whenever, wherever, and in whatever he
had to do, for which cause th^re hns been a friendly correspondence bstwixt the family
of Gerloch and the MacR is of Kintail, which still continues."— Genealogy of the Mac-
Ras.
t Gairloch MS. History.
J Celtic Magazine, vol. iii. pp. 217 18.
§ Gairloch MS.
A 2
298 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
her called Hector Cam, he being blind of one eye, to whom he gave
Achterneed and CulteLeod, now Castle Leod, as his patrimony. Hector
Cam married a daughter of Mackay of Farr, by whom he had two sons,
Alexander Koy and Murdo.* Alexander married a daughter of John Mor
na Tuaighe MacGillechallum, a brother of Macleod of Raasay, by whom
she had a son, Hector, who lived at Kinellan, was nicknamed the Bishop,
married a daughter of Macleod of Eaasay, and left a large family, one of
whom was afterwards married to Murdo Mackenzie of Achilty. Hector
Cam's second son, Murdo, also left issue.
Hector Eoy, after the death of Grant's daughter, married Anne Mac-
donald, a daughter of Ronald MacRanald, generally called Ronald Ban,
Laird of Moidart. She was widow of JWilliam Dubh Macleod of Harris,
Dunvegan, and Glenelg, by whom she had a daughter, who, by Hector
Roy's influence at Court, was married to Rorie Mor of Achaghluineachan,
ancestor of the Mackenzies of Fairburn and Achilty, after she had a
natural son, Murdoch, by him, who became progenitor of the family of
Fairburn. By tliis marriage Hector had four sons and three daughters.
1. John Glassich, his heir.
2. Kenneth of Meikle Allan, now Allangrange, who married a daugh-
ter of Alexander Dunbar of Kilbuyack, and widow of Allan Mackenzie,
II. of Hilton.
3. John Tuacli, who inherited Scatwell, and
4. Dougal Roy.
The daughters married respectively, Bayne of Tulloch, John Aberach
Mackay, and James Bayne Fraser of Bunchrew, a natural son of Lord
Lovat, killed at Blar-na-Leine, ancestor of the Frasers of Reelick. Hector
had also a son, John Beg, who, according to some authorities, was illegi-
timate, and from Avhom descended some Mackenzies who settled in Berwick
and Alloa.
Hector died in 1528. On the 8th of September of that year, a
grant is recorded to Sir John Dingwall, "Provost of Trinity College,
besyd Edinburgh, of the ward of the lands of Gaiiocht, quhilkis pertenit
to umquhill Achinroy Mackenzie." He was succeeded by his eldest
lawful son,
II. JOHN GLASSICH MACKENZIE, who appears from the above quoted
document to have been a minor at his father's death. His retour of
service is not extant, but an instrument of sasine, dated 24th of June
1536, in his favour, is in the Gairloch charter chest, in which he is
designated "John Hector-son," and in which he is said to be heir, served
and retoured to his father, Hector Roy Mackenzie, of the lands of Gair-
loch, and the grazings of Glasletter and Coirre-nan-Cuilean. John is said
* "These were both succeeded by the son of the former (Alexander), a slothful
man who dotiugly bestowed his estates on liis foster child, Sir Roderick Mackenzie
of Coigeaeh, in detriment to his own children, though very diserving of them,
Captain Hector Mackenzie, lute of Dumbarton's Regiment, and also a tribe in the
Eisteru circuit of Ross, surnamed, from one of their progenitors, Mac Eauiu,
i.e., the descendants of John the Fair.— Gairloch MS. Another MS. girts the aditional
names of — " Richard Mackenzie, vintner in Edinburgh, grandson of Alexander Mac-
kenzie of Calder, Midlothian ; Duncan Mackenzie, an eminent gunsmith in London ; and
James Mackenzie, gunsmith in Dundee." It also adds that of the successors of the
Mac Eanius in Exster ROSP, were "Master Alexander Mackenzie, an Episcopal minister
in Edinburgh ; and preceptor to the children of the present noble family ef Cromarty,
whose son is Charles Mackenzie, clerk to Mr David Munio of Meikle Allan."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 299
to have objected to his father's liberality during his life in granting,
at the expense of his own successors, to his nephew, John of Killin,
so much of his patrimonial possessions. According to the Gairloch
MS. already quoted he gave him his half of Kintail, Kinellan, Fair-
buni, the Wester Brahan, and " other possessions in the Low Country
besides." John thought these donations exorbitant, and therefore "sought
to retrench them, by recovering in part what with so much profusion his
father had given away, and for that, a feud having ensued betwixt him
and his chief, he was surprised in his house by night, according to the
barbarous manner of the times, and sent prisoner to Hand Downan, and
there taken away by poison in A.D. 1550. His brother Dugal, who sided
with him, and John (Beg), his natural brother, were both slain in the
same quarrel."*
A bond, dated about 1544, has been preserved by the Spalding Club,
to which John Glassich's name, among others, is adhibited, undertaking
to keep the peace, and promising obedience to Kenneth, younger of Kin-
tail (Kenneth na Cuirc), as the Queen's Lieutsnant.t John's obedience
does not appear, however, to have been very complete. Mackenzie of
Kintail having, according to another authority, received information of
John's intention to recover if possible part of the property given away by
his father, sent for him to BraLan, where he came, accompanied by a single
attendant, John Gearr. The Chief charged him with designs against
him, and John's asseverations and vindication proving unsatisfactory,
he caused him to be apprehended. His attendant, John Gearr, seeing
this, drew his two-handed sword and made a fierce onslaught on the Chief
who sat at the head of the table and smartly bowed his head under it, or
he would have been cloven asunder. John Gearr was instantly seized
by Mackenzie's guards, who threatened to tear him to pieces, but the
Chief, admiring his fidelity, strictly charged them not to touch him. John
Gearr was questioned as to why he had struck at Mackenzie himself and
took no notice of those who apprehended his master, when he boldly replied
that he " saw no one else present whose life was a worthy exchange for that
of his own Chief." The sword made a deep gash in the table, and the
mark, which was deep enough to admit of one's hand being placed edge-
ways in it, remained in it until Colin, first Earl of Seaforth, caused the
piece to be cut off, saying, that " he loved no such remembrance of the
quarrels of his relations."
John Glassich, by all accounts, was neither too circumspect in his
conduct at home and among his neighbours, nor a dutiful and loyal sub-
ject to his Sovereign. In 1547 his property was forfeited to the Crown,
for refusing to join the Royal Standard, and the escheat thereof granted
to the Earl of Sutherland, as will be seen by the following account : — ''Ane
lettre maid to Johnne Erie of Suthirland his airis assignais ane or ma of
the gift of all gudis mouable and vnmouable dettis takkis stedingis cornis
obligationis sowmes of money gold silver cunzeit and vncunzeit and vtheris
gudis quhatsurneuir quhilkis perlenit to Johne Hectorsoune of Garloch
and now perteining to our souerane lady be reson of eschete throu the
said Johnis tresonable remaning and byding at hame fra the oist and
* Gairloch MS. Another MS. says that John Tuach was assassinated the same
night.
t Spalding Miscellany, vol. iv., p. 213.
300 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
army devisit to conuene at Peblis the x day of Julii instant for recotiering
of the hous at Langhalme furth of oure auld Inymies handis of Ingland
in contrare the tcnnour of the lettres and proclamationis maid thairupon
Incurrand thairthrou the panis contenit thairuntill or ony vthcr wise sal
happin to pertene to us our souerane be resoun foirsaid wyth power etc.
At Sauct androis the xxiiij day Julii The year of God Im- Vc- xlvij.
(1547) yeris."*
There is no trace in the Privy Council Records of the reversal of this
forfeiture ; but it does not appear to have affected the succession. Indeed
it is not likely that it even affected the actual possession, for
it was difficult, even for the Earl of Sutherland, backed up by Royal
authority, to wield any substantial power in such an out-of.the-way region
as John Glassich's possessions iu the west. We have already stated
that in 1551 the Queen granted to John Mackenzie of Kintail and
his apparent heir, Kenneth na Cuirc, a remission for the violent taking of
John Glassich, Dougal, and John Tuach, his brothers, and for keeping
them in prison, thus usurping " thairthrou our Souerane Ladyis autorite."
Neither of them is spoken of in this remission as being then deceased,
though tradition and the family MS. history has it that John Glassich was
poisoned or starved to death at Islandonain Castle in 1 550.t It is possible,
however, that Kintail found it convenient to conceal John's death until the
remission had been already secured. Only six weeks after the date of
the <l respitt " we find John Glassich, referred to in the Council Records,
under date of 25th July 1551, as the "omquhile (or late) Jolme McCanzo
of Garlocht," his lands having then been given in ward to the Earl of
Athol, " ay and quhill (till) the lauchful^entre of the rychtuis air or airis
thairto being of lauchfull age."|
Though Hector Roy Mackenzie obtained a charter of Gairloch in 1494,
the Macleods continued for a time to hold possession of a considerable
portion of it. According to the traditions of the district they had all to
the east and south-east of the Crasg, a hill situated on the west side
of the churchyard of Gairloch, between the present Free and Estab-
lished Churches. At the east end of the Big Sand, on an elevated and
easily defended rock, stood the last stronghold occupied by the Macleods
of Gairloch — to this day known as the " Dim " or Fort. The foundation is
still easily traced. It must have been a place of considerable importance,
its circumference being over 200 feet. Various places are still pointed out
in Gairloch where desperate skirmishes were fought between the Macleods
and the Mackenzies. Several of these spots where the slain were buried
look quite green to- this day. The " Fraoch Eilean," opposite Leac-na-
Saighid, where a naval engagement was fought, is a veritable cemetery
* Reg. Sec. Sig., xxi. fol, 31&.
t One of the family MSS. lias it that by his marriage " he got the lands of Kinkell,
Kilhokie, Badinearb(?) Titlunuie, Davochcairn, Davochpollo, and Foynish, with others
in the Low Country, for which the family has been iu the use to quarter the arms of
Fraser with their OWH. This John, becoming considerably rich and powerful by these dif-
ferent acquisitions, became too odious to and envied by John, Laiid of Mackenzie, and
his son Kenneth then married to ytewart, Earl of Athole's daughter, that they Bet upon
him, having previously invited him to a Christmas dinner, kaving got no other pretence
than a fit of jealousy on account of the said Earl's daughter, bound him with ropes and
carried him a prisoner to Iclandownan, where his death was occasioned by poison admin-
istered to him in a mess of milk soup by one MacCalman, a clergyman and Deputy-Con-
stable of the Fort."
J Reg. Sec. Con., vol. xxiv., fol. 84.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 301
of Macleods, ample evidence of which is yet to be seen. Of this engage-
ment, and of those at Glasleoid, Lochan Neigh, Leac-na-Saighid, Kirkton,
and. many others, thrilling accounts are still recited by a few old men
in the district ; especially of the prowess of Doinh'ull Odhar Mac Ian
Leith, and the other Kintail heroes who were mainly instrumental in
establishing the Mackenzies of Gairloch permanently and in undisputed
possession of their beautiful and romantic inheritance. Hector Roy
and John Glassich succeeded in driving the Macleods out of the country,
but they often returned, accompanied occasionally by their relatives, the
Macleods of Lews, whose Chief, until the death of Torquil Dubh Mac-
leod of the Lews, the Macleods of Gairloch and Eaasay acknowledged
as their superior.
John Glassich married Agnes, daughter of James Eraser of Foyness,
with issue —
1. Hector,
2. Alexander, and
3. John, who succeeded each other in succession. He had also two
natural sons before his marriage,
Alexander Roy and Hector Gaol.
Alexander Roy had a son John, who lived at Coirre Mhic Dhomhnuill in
Torridon, and who had a son, Mr Murdoch Mackenzie, Chaplain to Lord
Reay's Regiment in the Bohemian and Swedish service, under Gustavus
Adolphus. This clergyman was afterwards made Bishop of Moray and
Orkney in succession. He had a son, Sir Alexander of Broomhill and
Laird cf Pitarrow in Kincardine, father of Colonel Alexander Mackenzie
of Hampton, Virginia, who left his English estates to his nephew, Mr
Young of Castleyards, Kirkwall. He had also a daughter, Jacobina
Mackenzie, who settled in Dundee. The Bishop had a brother, Alexander,
who settled in Strathnaver, at that time the property of Lord Reay, of
whom were descended Mr Hector Mackenzie, an Episcopal clergyman at
Inverness, and father to James and Alexander, ministers in Edinburgh.
The learned Dr James Mackenzie of Drumshiuch, a distinguished physi-
cian, and author of "The History of Health," and Mr William Mackenzie,
schoolmaster, afterwards lost on the coast of Guinea, were also grandsons
of this Bishop Mackenzie. He had another son, Mackenzie of Ground-
water, who left a son, Thomas Mackenzie, a merchant in Kirkwall, whose
brothers were the learned Murdoch Mackenzie, navigator to his Majesty
" known by his accurate surveys of the Western Coasts of Great Britain
and Ireland, and whose abilities will render him famous to posterity,"
and James Mackenzie, a writer, once in the service of the Earl of Morton,
in the Orkney Islands, and author of a treatise on Security. Another of
the Bishop's descendants was James Mackenzie, author of one of the
Gairloch MS. histories, to whose services we are not a little indebted,
though he attempts to make his ancestor legitimate at the expense of
correct genealogy.
Hector Gaol left a numerous tribe in Gairloch, still known as Clann
Eachainii Chaoil, and said to be distinguished by their long, slender legs.
John Glassich died in 1550, as already stated, at Islandonain Castle
was buried in the Priory of Beauly and succeeded by his eldest lawful son,
(To be Continued.)
302 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
OUR GAELIC BIBLE.
VI.
DIGRESSIONS, like delays, are dangerous. When in the third paper of
this series we ventured to turn aside and ask whether the Highlanders of
1807 were able in large numbers to read the Gaelic Bible then so freely
open to them, we did not anticipate a longer digression than could easily
be closed within the compass of a few short paragraphs. Instead of this
we have been carried away from our main purpose through the long pages,
all crowded with facts, figures, and references, of the two longest papers
of the series. And with the writer at least the growing interest of this
long digression had to some extent succeeded in thrusting aside the claims
of the original inquiry. Warned by the pile of MS. accumulating at his
left elbow that it was high time to bring the last paper to a close, he woke
up rather suddenly to find himself face to face with this startling fact ;
and he must now confess that, in pulling up precipitately, and all too
hurriedly dismounting from the driving box, he was not so careful of the
bystanders' corns as he ought to have been. Of course he knew that
everywhere throughout the Highlands good work was done by the Parish
school and its vis-a-vis of the Free Church, as well as by the old Gaelic
schools, mainly administered in these latter times by the Free Church, by
the new Gaelic schools of the Established Church, and by the ladies'
schools of the former body. He was anxious only to bring his paper to
a close, and had no thought of disparaging the work of these schools.
He has indeed ample materials beside him for a history of these schools
and their creditable share in the great work of Highland education, which
may some day be turned to good account. But for the present the edu-
cational digression must close. It has already overflowed all reasonable
bounds. And we must return to the Gaelic Bible,
Reid has the following paragraph at page Iviii. of the introduction to
his Bibliotheca Scoto-Celtica : — " During the present century various
controversial pamphlets on the subject of the different Gaelic translations
of the Scriptures and Psalter have been printed, and although for the
most part they are conducted in a very acrimonious manner, yet much
may be gleaned from them on that topic." Much of our leisure time has
for the last month been spent in searching for these pamphlets ; but the
labour has hitherto been in vain. The authorities of the Advocates'
Library have kindly given us every facility for prosecuting the search
among their miles of richly laden, well ordered book shelves. So have
also the curators of other libraries. But the search has been bootless.
The library of the Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge has been
broken up and dispersed ; their minutes only, and a set of their volumin-
ous reports being retained. May we therefore appeal to the readers of the
Celtic Magazine for help in this matter ? In the manses and old mansion
houses of the North there must still remain many sets of these pamphlets.
The family of the late Reverend Dr Thomas Ross of Lochbroom may be
indicated as likely in pre-eminent measure to be the depositary of the
interesting treasure ; for of the Gaelic Bible controversy which seventy
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 303
years ago raged so fiercely, the issue being mainly between the factions of
the JN"orth and the South- West Highlands, the learned, versatile, and
pugnacious doctor could well say " pars magna fui."
Driven from this field for want of materials, and pressed for time by
reason of the precious hours wasted in vainly searching for them, we
must make a virtue of necessity and present this month a paper whose
brevity will compensate for the undue length of its immediate predecessor.
It will be remembered that the first portion of the first translation
into Scotch Gaelic of the Old Testament, extending from Genesis to
Deuteronomy, was published in 1783, under the care of Dr Stuart of
Luss. Before being published, however, Dr Stuart's proof sheets were
submitted for revision to a committee, of which the Eev. Donald Mac-
queen of Kilmuir, in Skye, the " learned friend " of Dr Johnson, was a
prominent member. The other members of the committee will be found
correctly named in Reid's Bibliotheca. The part of this first portion
of the work entrusted for revision to Mr Macqueen appears to have
embraced the books of Numbers and Deuteronomy. By good fortune
three sheets of his proposed corrections have been preserved, and are now
in the safe keeping of the Advocates' Library, They are dated respectively
14th February, 25th February, and — May, 1783. The proof as finally
adjusted appears to have been presented to the General Assembly of
the same year, which is also the date inscribed on the title page.
The first of the three sheets of proposed corrections is entitled —
" Observations on the Gaulic (sic) Bible." The corrections run thus : —
1. " Numbers, chap. 22, v. 41. Er an La maricli rather, or Er an a
Lali, the next day." This correction Dr Stuart adopted, correcting in his
turn Mr Macqueen's primitive orthography. What was Dr Stuart's first
rendering, in absence of his proof sheets, we cannot tell Probably it did
not materially differ from the Irish, which reads ".Agus tarla ar na
mharach." As finally adjusted, the verse stands thus: " Agus air an la
maireach ghabh Balac Balaam, agus thug e suas e gu aitibh arda Bhaail,
a chum as gu faiceadh e o sin a' chuid a b'iomallaiche do'n t shluagh."
2. "Chap. 23, v. 28. Agaigh rather than aise." In absence of the
proof the relevancy of this correction is not perceptible.
3. " Chap. 24, v. 4. To your tuitam, the mode of adoration among
the true prophets, I would add anna paislionagli, into an ecstasy, for I do
not take Balaam to have been an upright prophet, tho' the Lord, who
opened the mouth of his ass, was pleased to make use of him to reveal
some truth much against his will," This correction is not adopted by
Stuart. "v. 14. Sainfhios is a whisper. Taisbonigh me dhuit." In
adjusting the text, Stuart, though not adopting this correction, yet gives
effect to it indirectly. Sanas and jfos are put alternatively in a foot-note,
and the text is altered to Iheir mi rabhadh dliuit. "v. 15. Instead of
duinte say fosgoilte" Duinte is retained.
4. "Chap, 25, v. 14 and 15. We know nothing of priomh, which
seems to be derived from primus. I would say ard tealach." Priomh is
retained in both verses, but ceud and ard are put as a foot-note.
5. " Chap. 26, v. 10. I would say bal-cohiright." The word objected
to appears to have been comhara, which is retained with ball-sampuill as
a foot-note.
304 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
6. "Chap. 27, v. 19. I would rather say no. fionoish." This
as adjusted, reads : " Agus cuir e 'an lathair Eleasair an t-sagairt, agus 'an
lathnir a' cho' chruinnich uile ; agus thoir aithnc dha 'iiam iianuis."
7. "Chap. 28, v. 18. Shaoraclwil is very good: is not trailltu'd at
least as good a word 1 " The suggestion is accepted, and the word
excepted to is removed from the text and given as a foot-note.
8. "Chap. 30, v. 2. Boinn is indeed used in the Gaulic version of
the Psalms, yet cuibhreach is, I think, a better word." Boinn is rejected
(the Irish is banna) in favour of ceanyal, and Mr Macqueen's cuibhreach
is put at the foot of the page.
9. "Chaj). 31, v. 10. An duin is to be taken into the text, for ba-
dhuin is a fortified fold for cows, of which AVC have many under that
designation, and [they] were necessary when Danes and natives were
mixed together. It is the ciiballum (cow-wall) of the Galatians in Phrigia,
where cows' dung, as in Huskar, an island in our neighbourhood, became
a necessary article for fireing. See Livy, b. 38, 18. From that very
word I am apt to believe these were Teutonic Ganls." This savory pellet,
so learnedly interlarded, did not miss the mark. Badhuin was rejected
in favour of an duin, caistealan and daighnichean being given as alterna-
tive readings at the foot of the page. " v. 50. Usyair is our word for
bracelets both in common language and in songs." The Irish is Iraisleid.
Dr Stewart finally adopted Mr Macqueen's suggestion, putting the word
in the text as usgraicliean. But it is evident that he was not satisfied
that the word would be generally intelligible to his countrymen ; for,
besides giving another word lamh-fhailean, at the foot of the page, he is
fain to add the English (bracelets, Sasg.)
10. " Chap. 32, v. 28. Muthadh we do not use. I heard it for
changing money. We would say air an ahirachagh." This correction
has puzzled us immensely. If it had been made on a proof-sheet of Dr
John Smith's we should have hastened at once to the Hebrew Bible for
some explanation of it. But in the case of a proof-sheet emanating from
the worthy minister of Luss, it was best to go to the English, taking a look
in passing at the Irish. And there, sure enough, stand invitingly obvious
the ready-made elements of an ingenious, fine-spun theory. The Irish has
"d' aithribh onoracha threabh chloine Israel," and the English "the chief
fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel." Some careless transcriber
of Dr Stuart's notes must have changed aithrichcan, or perhaps aithrichibh,
to atharrachadh. This in turn would be corrected into mnihadh on the
proof now passing through the hands of Mr Macqueen. What could be
more natural or obvit>u« ? But like many another fine spun theory it has
no foundation in fact. By a slip of the pen Mr Macqueen has written 28
for 38. And on turning to the latter verse, which records the change of
the names of Nebo and Baal-meon, the reader will see that Dr Stuart en-
riched his translation by adopting the judicious correction of his learned
brother of Kilmitir.
This closes, on one page, the first of the three sheets of Mr Macqueen's
corrections, which are preserved in the Advocates' Library.
The letter is subscribed by "your affectionate and humble servant,
Don. Macqueen," and is dated from "Kilmuir, Feby. 14th, 1783, But,
like the young lady's letter, Mr Macqueen's has a 2iost script, — and such a
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 305
postscript! It extends to five closely- written quarto pages, all on the
theme, "Was Balaam a real prophet or not1?" Besides a great many
quotations from Greek and Latin authors in reference to oracles, augurs,
and auspices, this learned essay in the form of a post-script contains
not a little that is full of interest in regard to popular cursing and
ecclesiastical excommunication as practiced of old among our Highland
ancestors. We may return to it.
The second sheet is dated February 25th, 1783. Like its predeces-
sor it has a long and learned post-script, chiefly on the subject of Prayer,
and is copiously illustrated with Greek and Latin quotations. In it
occurs, also, the well known Gaelic charm for the toothache, which needs
not here be reproduced. Of corrections on " the Gaulic version of the
Pentatuch," it contains but the two following : —
1. " Chap, 35, v. 6. Didean, defence, is a good word, if there were
no better. Comrigh is a sanctuary, and is the name of the principal farm
on the estate of Applecross, because it was one. You have it also in the
poems of Ossian — Gabham do Chomrigh, fhir mhoir, I embrace your pro-
tection, great man. The term in our old laws is girth hug e an girt er,
we still say of a man who runs away fast from destruction. Any of the
words will do. I prefer the second." Dr Stuart retains didean, but gives
comruicli and girt at the foot of the page.
2. " v. 20. A fuilmsah is more intelligible than plaide-luidlie. Le
run mealtah would answer." The English is, " if lie thrust him of hatred,
or hurl at him by lying of ivait, that he die." Plaid-luighe, in this sense
of lying in ambush is certainly not a common expression in the living
Gaelic of the day. Nor has it been borrowed from the Irish Bible. The
Highland Society's "Dictionary gives it solely on the authority of the
Gaelic Scriptures. While retaining the word in the text, Dr Stuart
yields to Mr Macqueen so far as to give also le fath-fhcitheamh and le run
mealltacli at the foot of the page. Plaid-luighe is also given as an alter-
native reading in Proverbs i. 11, and Acts xiii. 16. In the latter passage
the text reads feall-fholach. Is the word simply plaid-lying — wrapping
one's self up in his plaid, and, crouching under cover, thus to lie in wait
for his victim 1
The third sheet, dated — May 1 783, has just six half lines of corrections
to forty-six lines of a post-script. The corrections suggested are these : —
1. " Deut., chap. 16, v. 11. Here you have omitted the Levite."
2. "Deut., chap. 17, v. 16. Dho fein is left out,"
3. " Deut., chap. 17, v. 17. The same words are left out."
These three corrections are duly attended to.
4. " Chap. 18., v. 19. Why not tayraiga me e rather than iaraidh ?"
No notice is taken of this correction.
5. " Chap. 21, v. 14. Antighearnas is tyranny. I would say creaidh
orra." Not adopted.
6. " Chap. 22, v. 10. Troiayh is the word here and in Koss-shire,
I find ar is used in Broadalbin." Dr Stuart retains ar, but gives treabh-
adh (ploughing) at the foot of the page.
It is hoped that these specimens of the mode of working followed by
the first translators of our Gaelic Bible will have some intrinsic interest
for the readers of the Celtic Magazine. It is hoped also that they will
306 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
minister some true comfort to the mind of the pious Highlander as show-
ing that, not merely the meaning of his Bible, but indeed its every word
and phrase have reached him after the careful review and scrutiny of
many competent scholars. Nor will the student of philology scorn,
from a comparison of the -widely-differing orthography of Stuart and
Macqueen, to cull some scraps of linguistic significance, not unworthy of
a place in his graduated pigeon-holes of accumulating well-ordered fact,
from which, in time, important results may emerge.
DONALD MASSON.
THE MACKENZIES OF HILTON.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
SIR, — In the May number of the Celtic Magazine you give a long
account of the Mackenzies of Hilton. By some oversight you omitted to
notice a most worthy member of the Hilton family. I allude to Mr
Alexander Mackenzie, who was one of the leading foremen stone-masons
at the building of the Caledonian Canal. Soon after the completion of
that great national work, the Government of Sweden made preparations
to commence a similar undertaking. When their plans were fully
matured and ready to be carried into effect, they communicated with Mr
Telford, the engineer who so successfully completed the Caledonian Canal,
and requested him to recommend to them a superintendent for the various
descriptions of work in connection with the Swedish Canal. Out of the
hundreds of stone-masons employed on the Caledonian Canal, young
Alexander Mackenzie, grandson of Alexander, X. of Hilton, and son of
" Alastair Mor Mac Fhir Bhaile Chnuic," was selected to superintend the
mason-work of the Swedish Canal, which took eight years to build ;
during which time Mackenzie was sole superintendent of the mason-work.
On the successful termination of the undertaking, Mackenzie not only
received the thanks of the King and Government of Sweden, but in ad-
dition had special presents from the King as well as pressing invitations
to remain in the country. He, however, preferred his native country, to
which he returned, and commenced business as a wine merchant and
vintner in Liverpool, where I knew him personally for many years.
After Mackenzie settled in Liverpool, a massive gold medal was struck
in commemoration of the building of the canal. The Swedish Ambassador
in London made special enquiries regarding him, and Lord Sandon, then
M.P. for Liverpool, satisfied him as to the identity of Mackenzie, when the
Ambassador handed the medal to Lord Sandon, who presented it to Mr
Mackenzie, — and in whose possession I have repeatedly seen it, — in the
name of the King and Government of Sweden. — I am, &c.,
INVERNESS. COLIN CHISHOLM,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 307
GENEALOGICAL NOTES AND QUERIES.
ANSWERS.
(16) THE PEERAGE AND BARONETCIES OF CROMARTY AND TARBAT. —
In answer to " Tarbat's" query in the April number of the Celtic Magazine,
the representative of the Mackenzies of Ardloch, (Sir) John Mackenzie,
farmer, Lochinver, is heir-male to the above honours, after his cousin,
the late Sir Alexander Mackenzie, Baronet of Tarbat and Eoyston. Sir
John, however, never assumed the title. He is the only surviving male
issue of his father, his brothers having all pre -deceased him without male
issue. He has no male issue of his own. S.
(17) CAPTAIN HUMBERSTON-MACKENZIE. — In answer to "K. E. M'K.V
query in last issue, this officer, killed at the storming of Ahmednugger,
on the 8th of August 1803, was a natural son of Colonel Thomas Frederick
Mackenzie-Humberston, XX. of Kintail, who died of his wounds at Geriah,
on the 30th April 1783, unmarried. Captain Colin Mackenzie, late of
the 78th, who wrote the history of the regiment for Fullarton's " High-
land Clans," adds the following footnote: — "It may not be known to the
public, and perhaps not to the 78th Regiment itself, that the handsome
black granite slab inserted in the Pettah wall of Ahmednugger, bearing
an inscription that on this spot fell, at the storming of the fort, Captain
Thomas Mackenzie-Humberston (son of Colonel Mackenzie-Humberston,
who was killed at the close of the Maharatta war, 1783); also to the
memory of Captain Grant, Lieutenant Anderson, the non-commissioned
officers, and privates of that regiment who fell on that occasion, was
placed here as a memorial by the Honourable Mrs Stewart-Mackenzie
(then Lady Hood), eldest daughter of Lord Seaforth (brother of Colonel
Humberston), when she visited this spot on her way from Poonah to
Hyderabad, in March 1813. — Memorandum found among the papers oj
the late Colonel C. Mackenzie-Fraser of Castle Fraser." A.M.
HIGHLAND ANCESTEY OF MR GLADSTONE.
IT will be seen that Mr Gladstone is descended on the mother's side from
the ancient Mackenzies of Kintail, through whom is introduced the blood
of The Bruce, of the ancient Kings of Man, and of the Lords of the Isles
and Earls of Ross ; also from the Munros of Fowlis, and the Robertsons
of Strowan and Athole, His descent on the father's side from the anci-
ent Scottish family of Gledstaines is better known. According to Dou-
glas's Baronage, the . Robertsons are descended from the Lords of the
Isles, while Skene derives them from King Duncan, eldest son of Mal-
colm III. of Scotland. Smibert agrees with the former. The first of the
family was
(1) Duncan, from whom the Robertsons are by the Highlanders called
"Claim Donnachaidh," or the descendants of Duncan. He was one of the
greatest warriors of his time, and was in great favour with Robert Bruce.
He fought, as a very old man, with his eldest son, Robert, with King
David at the battle of Durham in 1346, where they were both taken pri-
308 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
soners. He was succeeded in his extensive possessions in Athol by his
eldest son
(2) Robert, who obtained a charter from David Bruce, under the
Great Seal, dated 24th May 1362. He had a sou and successor
(3) Duncan, who married a lady of the family of Graham, by whom
he had three sons, the second of whom
(4) Duncan, became the progenitor of the Eobcrtsons of lushes, In-
verness. This Duncan settled at Inverness, in the reign of James L, as a
merchant. He married, and had a son
(5) Robert, who carried on his father's business, and being very suc-
cessful, he acquired lands and houses in the neighbourhood of the town.
He married, and had a son
(6) John, who assumed the surname of Robertson. He sold some of
the lands acquired by his predecessors to a Mr Thomas Mushet, by char-
ter dated 24th April 1448. He died in the reign of James III., and was
succeeded by his eldest son
(7) Laurence, who, in 1517, purchased a slated house in Inverness,
from the monastery there, and which, until recently, remained in the pos-
session of the family. He was succeeded by his son
(8) John Robertson, served heir to his father in the reign of Jam
He died without issue, and was succeeded by his uncle
(9) William Robertson, second son of John No. 6, in 153G, who was
succeeded in turn by his son
(10) John Robertson, a man of great strength and courage, in conse-
quence of which he was called " Stalwart John." He was standard-bearer
to Lord Lovat at the sanguinary battle fought at Loch Lochy, between
the Frasers and the Macdonalds, known among the Highlanders as " Blar
na Leine" — the battle of the shirts. Here he remarkably distinguished
himself, and the service by him on that occasion has always been acknow-
ledged by the family of Eraser. He was Provost of Inverness, and, be-
ing a very successful merchant, he acquired considerable property in the
neighbourhood, and resided at a place still called " Robertson's field," at
Kinmylies, close to the burgh. He married, first, a daughter of Hugh
Rose of Kilravock, by whom he had an heir and successor. He married,
secondly, a daughter of Eearn of Pitcullen, by whom he had three sons
and one daughter, one of whom —
(11) William Robertson became first of the Robertsons of Kindeace,
who carried on a most extensive business in Inverness, acquired vast
wealth, and purchased the lands of " Orkney " (? Urchany), in the county
of Nairn, in 1615, and the lands of Kindeace, of which this branch has
been since designated, in the county of Inverness, in 1639. He married
Elspeth, daughter of the Rev. Thomas Howison, minister of Inverness, by
whom he had six sons and three daughters. The first two, William and
George, died unmarried before their father, who was succeeded by his
third and eldest surviving son
(12) Gilbert Robertson II. of Kindeace, who married Margaret, eldest
daughter of Colin Mackenzie, I, of Kincraig, second son of Roderick M Mi-
Mackenzie, I. of Redcastle, by his wife Florence, daughter of Robert
Munro, fifteenth Baron of Fowlis, Roderick Mor Mackenzie of Redcastle
being the third son of Kenneth Mackenzie, tenth Baron of Kintail, by
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 309
Lady Elizabeth Stewart, daughter of John, second Earl of Athol. By
this marriage Gilbert Eobertson had two sons and several daughters. The
eldest son, William, died before his father, unmarried. He was succeeded
by his second and only surviving son
(13) Colin Robertson III. of Kindeace, who married a daughter of Sir
Robert Munro, Bart, of Fowlis, by whom he had two sons, William and
George. He was succeeded by the eldest son, William Eobertson IV. of
Kindeace, a cornet of Dragoons, who married, first, Catherine, daughter
of Robert Robertson of Shipland, a cadet of Inshes, by whom he had two
sons and several daughters. He married, secondly, Anne, daughter of
Sir John Munro, Bart, of Fowlis, without issue. The second son,
(14) George Robertson, was Sheriff-Depute and Commissary of Ross,
and married Agnes, daughter of John Barbour of Aldourie, by whom, he
had four sons, the eldest of whom,
(15) Andrew Robertson, a writer in, and Provost and Sheriff-Substi-
tute of Dingwall, married Anne Mackenzie, daughter of Colin Mackenzie,
a Bailie of Dingwall by his wife Mary, only daughter of Kenneth Mac-
kenzie, II. of Torridon, sister to John Mackenzie, III. of Torridon, pater-
nal grand-aunt to the late Bishop Mackenzie, of Nottingham, and to the
Rev. Charles Mackenzie, Prebendary of St Paul's Cathedral, London.
By this marriage Andrew Robertson, Provost of Dingwall, had, among
others, a daughter Anne, who married, as his second wife, the late Sir
John Gladstone, Baronet of Fasque, Kincardineshire, by whom she had
issue, among others, the Right Honourable William Ewart Gladstone.
M.P. A. MACKENZIE.
The above was originally addressed to, and appeared in the
Scotsman. It was cut out and forwarded to the right honourable gentle-
man, who sent the following courteous acknowledgement : —
"A. Mackenzie, Esq., Celtic Magazine Office, Inverness, N.B.
" Sm, — I thank you very much for your courtesy in sending me the
extract in which you have kindly given me my place as a descendant,
through my mother, of the Mackenzies. — Your faithful and obedient
"May 7th, 1879." (Signed) "W. E. GLADSTONE."
-o
QUERIES.
(18) MACKENZIES OP APPLECROSS.— On 17th August 1737, Kenneth Mackenzie, brother
to John Mackenzie of Applecross, was entered apprentice to Thomas Gordon, clock and
watchmaker, for six years. Can any of your readers give any information regarding the
subsequent career of the above K. M'K., and, if so, are any of his descendants in
existence ? J. MACLAGAN.
(19) THE MACLEANS OF DOCHGABEOCH.— There was a James Maclean, merchant, burgess
of Inverness, whose daughter Margaret married a Mackenzie of Highfield in the last
century. Is it the case that he was of the Macleans of Davochgariocb ; if not, of what
family was he, who was his wife, and of what stems were their male and female ancestors
generally ? F. MEDENHAM.
(20) THE CHIEFSHIP OP THE MATHESONS.— In regard to the question of the Matheson
chiefship, which is being canvassed in your Magazine, is there not some story setting
forth that one claimant is the descendant of the son of a favourite old servant, who was
brought up in the family and bore the same name ? He did not succeed to the estate —
a younger son did. QUILL.
310 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
(21) "DAVID ROSE IN BALCONIE" resided there in 1687 before and after. He was
brother of Rose of Clnva and tenant of Francis Robertson of Kiltearn. Can any one
kindly give a clear account of his descendants ? LEX.
(22) ROBERTSONS OF KINDEACK. — Can any of your readers state in your Genealogical
Query column what was the relationship or other family connection between Andrew
Robertson, formerly Provost of Dingwall, and the Rev. Dr Harry Robertson, minister
of Kiltearn, who died about 1813. I think his father was Professor, if not Principal, of
the College or University of Aberdeen. WM. R. SANDBACH.
10 Prince's Gate, Hyde Park, London.
(23) CAMPBELL OF GLENLTON. — In Burke's Peerage the following entry occurs : —"Ro-
bert Campbell, Esq. of Glenlyon, directly descended from Archibald Campbell of Glen-
lyon, son of Sir Duncan Campbell of Glenurchy. was great grandfather of Archibald
Campbell, an officer in the army, who was father of General Sir Archibald Campbell,
Bart, of Garth, G.C.B.," the hero of the Burmese War. Can any of your correspond-
ents answer the following questions: — Was this Robert Campbell the commander at the
massacre of Glencoe ? What were the Barnes of the Glenlyons between the first Archi-
bald and Robert ? Who were their wives ? Where is the full pedigree of the Glen-
lyen family to be found? The ancestors of Sir Archibald Campbell of Garth were tacks-
men of Carie in Rannoch. I am descended from the family through a female, and I
would be deeply grateful to any one who could favour me with any information regard-
ing the wife or family of Sir Archibald's great-grandfather, the soa of Robert Campbell
of Glenlyon. C.J.L.
Dundee.
(24} The two songs, of which the following verses form a part, were composed by a
Mackenzie in Kishorn, Applecross, about the beginning of the present century. To the
best of my knowledge he was a lineal descendant of the old family of Applecross, and
when the land was taken from the people of the Highlands, he urged them with song
and every kind of persuasion to go to America. To set them the example he emigrated,
at an advanced age, either to Nova Scotia or Carolina about the beginning of the present
century. Can any of your readers supply a correct version of these, or give any in-
formation about the author ? COLIN CHISHOLM.
Tha mi 'n duil ri dhol thairis
Mar dean aon rud mo mhealladh,
Bithidh mi fein air an luing
Gabhail fuinn air mo leabaidh.
Ach a Righ th' anns na Flathas
Glac an stiuir na do lamhan,
Agus reitich an cuan
Gus an sluagh 'leagail thairis
Bits a Choirneil nach maireann
A mhill oirne na barail,
Na 'm biodh tuath air an giullachd
Cha bhiodh gluasad air duine.
Tha gach uachdaran fearainn
San taobh -tuath air am mealladh,
Chuir iad bhuatha 'n cuid daoine
Air son caoirich na tearra.
(Second Song).
Bhean an Ugh na biodh sprochd ort,
Faigh am botul a nuas,
Gu 'm bheil m' iuntinn ro-dheonach,
Dbol a sheoladh thar chuan,
Dol a dh-ionusuidh an aite,
Gus na bhrachd am mor-shluagh,
Gu iosal Naomh Maiii,
'S cha bhi mill ga thoirt bhuainn.
Bithidh am bradan air linue ann,
'S na milltean do dh-fheidh,
Bithidh gach eun air na crannaibb.
'S ann am barraibh nan geug,
Bithidh an cruiueachd a fas ann,
Bidh an t-al aig an spreidh,
'S an am na Feill-patric,
Bithidh .an t aiteach dim reir.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 311
JOHN MACKAY, OE IAN MOB AIREACH,
BY THE LATE SlR THOMAS DlCK LAUDER, BART,
MY old Highland major .told me, what perhaps you know better than I
do, I mean, that some half century or more ago, before sheep were quite
so much in fashion in the Highlands as I believe they now are, and when
cattle were the only great staple of the country, the proprietors of the
glens had them always well filled with cows. In those times it was the
custom in Eoss-shire to allow one calf only to be reared for each two cows
of the herd. Each calf with its pair of cows was called a Cauret (Caraid) ;
and these caurets were let to renters, who, as they might find it most
advisable, took one or more of them in lease, as it were, according as their
circumstances might dictate ; and the renter being obliged to rear one calf
for the landlord for each cauret he held, he was allowed the remainder of
the milk for his own share of the profit. These milk-renters Avere called
arrachs ; and John Mackay, the hero of my story, was called Ian Mor
Aireach, from his lofty stature, and from his being one of these milk-
renters. According to my informant the major, who personally knew
him, Ian well merited the addition of Mor, for he declared that he was
the most poAverful man he had ever beheld.
It so happened that Ian went down on one occasion into Strath-
Connan, to attend a great market or fair that was held there, probably to
dispose of his cheese ; and as he was wandering about after his business
was over, his eye was caught exactly like those of some of our simple
trouts of the lake here, by the red and tinsel, and silk and wool, and
feather glories of a recruiting sergeant and his party. He had never seen
anything of the kind before, and he stood staring at them in wonderment
as they passed. Nor did his solid and substantial form fail to fill the
sergeant's eye in its turn ; but if I am to give you a simile illustrative of
the manner in which it did so, I must say that it was in the same way
that the plump form of a well-fed trout might fill the greedy eye of a
gaunt pike. He resolved to have him as a recruit. The party was ac-
cordingly halted immediately opposite to the spot where Ian was stand-
ing ; and after one or two shrill shrieks of the fife, and a long roll of the
drum, the martial orator began an oration, which lasted a good half hour,
in which he largely expatiated on the glories of a soldier's life, and the
riches and honours it was certain one day or other to shower on the heads
of all those who embraced it. The greater part of this harangue was lost
upon Ian Mor Arrach, partly because he but very imperfectly understood
English, and partly because his senses were too much lost in admiration.
But when the grand scarlet-coated gentleman approached him with a
smiling air, and gaily slapping him on the back, exclaimed, —
" Come along with us, my brave fellow, and taste the good beef aud
mustard, and other provender, that King George so liberally provides for
us gentlemen of his army, and drink his Majesty's health with us in his
own liquor. Come, and see how jollily we soldiers live ! "
312 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
His wits returned to him at once, and he quickly understood enough
of what was said to him, to make him grin from ear to ear, till every
tooth in his head was seen to manifest its own particular unmingled
satisfaction, and his morning's walk from his distant mountain residence
having wonderfully sharpened his appetite, he followed the sergeant into
a booth with all manner of alacrity, and quietly took his seat at a table
that groaned beneath an enormous round of beef, flanked by other
eatables, on which the hungry recruits fell pell-mell, and in demolishing
which Ian rendered them his best assistance. The booth or tent was
constructed, as such things usually are, of some old blankets stitched
together, and hung over a cross stick, that was tied horizontally to the
tops of two poles fixed upright in the ground. It was the ambulatory
tavern of one of those travelling ale and spirit sellers who journey from
one fair or market to another, for the charitable purpose of vending their
victuals and drink to the hungry and thirsty who can afford to pay for
them. The space around the interior of the worsted walls of this confined
place was occupied with boxes, vessels, and barrels of various kinds ; and
whilst the landlord, a knock-kneed cheeseparing of a man, who had once
been a tailor, sat at his ease in one corner reckoning his gains, his wife,
a fat bustling red-nosed little woman, was continually running to and fro,
to serve the table with liquor. Many were the loyal toasts given, and
they were readily drank by Ian, more, perhaps, from relish of the good
stuff that washed them down, than from any great perception he had of
their intrinsic merit. His head was by no means a weak one. But the
sergeant and his assistants were too well acquainted with all the tricks of
their trade not to take such measures as made him unwittingly swallow
three or four times as much liquor as they did.
" Now, my gallant Highlander," exclaimed the sergeant, when he
thought him sufficiently wound up for his purpose, " see how nobly His
Majesty uses us. Starve who may, we never want for plenty. But this
is not all. Hold out your hand, my brave fellow. See, here is a shilling
with King George's glorious countenance upon it. He sends you this in
his own name, as a mark of his especial favour and regard for you."
" Fod, but she wonders tat sae big an' braw a man as ta King wad be
thinkin' on Ian Arrach at a', at a'," said the Highlander, surveying the
shilling as it lay in the palm of his hand ; " but troth, she wonders a
hantel rnair, tat sin King Shorge was sendin' ony sin till her ava, she
didna send her a guinea fan her hand was in her sporran at ony rate.
But sic as it be, she taks it kind o" ta man ; " and saying so, he quietly
transferred into his own sporran that which he believed to have come
from the King's.
" That shilling is but an arnest of all the golden guineas he will by
and bye give you," said the sergeant; " not to mention all those bags of
gold, and jewels, and watches which he will give you his gracious leave
to take from his enemies, after you shall have cut their throats."
" Tut, tut, but she no be fond o' cuttin' trotts," replied Ian ; " she no
be good at tat trade at a' at a'."
" Ha ! no fears but yon will learn that trade fast enough," said the
sergeant. " You mountaineers generally do. You are raw yet ; but wait
till you have beheld my glorious example — wait till you have seen me
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 313
3 heer off half-a-dozen heads or so, as I have often done, of a morning be-
fore breakfast, and you will see that there is nothing more simple."
" Och, och ! " exclaimed Ian, with a shrug of his shoulders, that
spoke volumes.
" Aye, aye," continued the sergeant, " 'tis true, you cannot expect
that at the very first offer you are to be able to take off your heads quite
so clean at a blow as I can do. Indeed, I am rather considered a rare one
at taking off heads. For example — I remember that I once happened to
take a French grenadier company in flank, when, with the very first slash
of my sword, I cut clean through the necks of the three first file of men,
front rank and rear rank, making no less than six heads oif at the first
sweep. And it was well for the company that they happened only to be
formed two deep at the time, for if they had been three deep, no less than
nine heads must have gone."
" Keep us a' !" cried some of the wondering recruits.
" Nay," continued the sergeant ; " had it not been for the unlucky
accident that by some mistake the fourth front-rank man was a leetle
shorter than the other, so that the sword encountered his chin-bone, the
fourth file would have been beheaded like the rest."
" Och, och !" cried Ian again.
" But," continued the sergeant, " as I said before, though you cannot
expect to take up this matter by nattral instinck, as it were, yet I'll be
bail that a big stout souple fellow like you will not see a month's sarvice
before you will shave off a head as easily as L shave this here piece of
cheese, and confound it I have cut my thumb half through."
" Her nanesell wunna be meddlin' wi' ony siccan bluidy wark," said
Ian, shaking his head, and shrugging his shoulders. " She no be wantan'
to be a boutcher. But noo," added he, lifting up a huge can of ale, " she
be biddin' ye a' gude evenin', shentilmans, and gude hells, and King
Shorge gude hells, an' mony sanks to ye a' ; and tell King Shorge she
sail keep her bit shullin' on a string tied round her neck for a bonny die."
And, so rising up, Ian put the ale can to his head, and drained it slowly
to the bottom.
"But, my good fellow," said the sergeant, who had been occupied,
whilst lan's draught lasted, in tying up his thumb in a handkerchief, and
giving private signals to his party, "you are joking about bidding us good
evening — we cannot part with you so soon."
" Troth, she maun be goin' her ways home," said Ian, " she has a far
gate to traivil."
" Stuff!" cried the sergeant ; " surely you cannot have forgotten that
you have taken King George's money, and that you have now the great
privilege of holding the honourable and lucrative situation of a gentlemen
private in his Majesty's infantry, having been duly and volunteerly en-
listed before all these here witnesses."
" Ou, na," said Ian, gravely and seriously ; " she didna' list — na, na,
she didna' list ; troth, na. So, wussin' ta gude company's gude hells
wanss more, an' King Shorge's hells, she maun just be goin' for she has a
lang gate o' hill afore her."
" Nay, master, we can't exactly part with you so easily," said the
sergeant, rising up. "You are my recruit, and you must go nowhere
without my leave." B 2
314 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
" Hoot, toots," replied Ian, making one step towards the door of the
booth ; " an' she has her nane leave, troth, she'll no be axan' ony ither."
" I arrest you in the King's name ! " said the sergeant, laying hold of
Ian by the breast.
" Troth, she wudna' be wussin' to hort her," said Ian, lifting up the
sergeant like a child, before he knew where he was ; " but sit her doon
tere, pot o' ta way, till her nane sell redds hcrsell of ta lave, an' wun.s awa'."
flaking two strides with his burden towards a large cask of ale that
stood on end in one corner of the place, he set the gallant hero down so
forcibly on the top of it, that the crazy rotten boards gave way, and he
was crammed backwards, in a doubled up position, into the yawning
mouth of the profound, Avhile surges of beer boiled and frothed up around
him. Ian would have charitably relieved the man from so disagreeable a
situation, which was by no means that which he had intended him to
occupy ; but, ere he wist, he was assailed by the whole party like a swarm
of bees. The place of strife was sufficiently narrow, a circumstance much
in favour of the light troops who now made a simultaneous movement on
him, with the intention of prostrating him on the ground, but he stood
like a colossus, and nothing could budge him ; whilst, at the same time,
he never dealt a single blow as if at all in anger, but ever and anon, as
his hands became so far liberated as to enable him to seize on one of his
assailants, he wrenched him away from his own person, and tossed him
from him, either forth of the tent door, or as far at least as its bounds
would allow, some falling among the hampers and boxes — some falling
like a shower upon the poor owners of the booth — and some falling upon
the unfortunate sergeant. The red-nosed priestess of this fragile temple
of Bacchus, shrieked in sweet harmony with the groans of the knock-
kneeded and broken downtailor, and in the midst of the melee, one unhappy
recruit, who was winging his way through the air from the powerful pro-
jectile force of Ian Mor, came like a chain-shot against the upright poles
of the tent — the equilibrium of its whole system was destroyed — down
came the cross-beam — the covering blankets collapsed and sank — and, in
a moment, nothing appeared to the eyes of those without but a mighty
heap, that heaved and groaned underneath like some volcanic mountain
in labour previous to an eruption. And an eruption to be t>ure there was
— for, to the great astonishment of the whole market people, Ian Mor
Arrach's head suddenly appeared through a rent that took place in the
rotten blanket, with his face in a red hot state of perspiration, and his
mouth gasping for breath. After panting like a porpoise for a few seconds,
he made a violent effort, reared himself upon his legs, and thrusting his feet
out at the aperture, which had served as a door to the tent, he fled away with
all the effect of a fellucca under a press of sail, buffetting his way through
the multitude of people and cattle, as a vessel would toss aside the oppos-
ing billows ; and then shooting like a meteor up the side of the mountain
that flanked the strath, he left his flowing drapery behind him in frag-
ments and shreds adhering to every bush he passed by, bounded like a
stag over its sky line, and disappeared from the astonished eyes of the
beholders.
It were vain to attempt to describe the re-organization of the discom-
fited troops, who, when their strange covering was thus miraculously re-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 315
moved, arose singly from the ground utterly confounded, and began to
move about limping and cursing amidst the bitter wailings of the unhappy
people, whose frail dwelling had so marvellously fled, from them.
The attention of the party was first called to their gallant commander,
who, with some difficulty, was extracted from the mouth of the beer
barrel, dripping like a toast from a tankard. His rage may be conceived
better than told. His honour had been tarnished, and his interest put in
jeopardy. He, whose stirring tales of desperate deeds of arms and fearful
carnage, had so often extended the jaws of the Highland rustics whom he
had kidnapped, and raised their very bonnets on the point of their brist-
ling hair with wonder — who could devour fire as it issued from the mouth
of a cannon — and who could contend single-handed against a dozen of
foes, to be so unceremoniously crammed, by the arm of one man, into a
beer barrel, in the presence of those very recruits, and to be afterwards basely
extracted from it before the eyes of the many who had listened to his
boastful harangues. And then, moreover, to be chouched out of the an-
ticipated fruits of his wily hospitality, as well as of a silver shilling, by
the flight of the broad-shouldered Celt, whom he thought he had secured,
and of whom he expected to have made so handsome a profit. All
this was not to be borne ; and, accordingly, wide as was Ross-shire, he de-
termined most indefatigably to search every inch of it until he should
again lay hands on him. From the enquiries made on the spot, it was
considered as certain that Ian Mor had gone directly home to his lonely
bothy, in a high and solitary valley, some dozen of miles or so from the
place where they then weie ; and as one of the recruits knew the mountain
tracks well enough to act as guide, he collected the whole of his forces,
amounting to nearly double the number of those who had been engaged
in the battle of the booth, and after having refreshed and fortified them
1 and himself with all manner of available stimuli, he put himself at their
head, and set forward on his expedition at such an hour of the night as
might enable them to reach the dwelling of Ian Mor Arrach before he
was likely to leave it in the morning in pursuit of his daily occupation.
Ian Mor was but little acquainted with the tricks of this world ; and
no wonder, for the habitation in which he lived, and from which he rarely
migrated, was situated in one of those desert glens which are to be found
far up in the mountains, where they nurse and perhaps give birth to the
minuter branches of those streams, which, running together in numbers,
and accumulating as they roll onwards through wider and larger valleys,
go on expanding with the opening country, until they unite to water the
extended and fertile plains in some broad and important river. The
ascent to the little territory of which Ian Mor was the solitary sovereign
was by a steep and narrow ravine among rocks, down which the burn
raged against the opposing angles, like a wayward child that frets and fumes
against every little obstacle that occurs to the indulgence of its wishes.
Higher up its course was cheerful and placid, lice the countenance of the
same child perhaps, when in the best humour and in the full enjoyment
for the time being of all its desires, laughing as it went its way among
water-lilies, ranunculuses, and yellow marygolds, meandering quietly
through a deep and well swarded soil, that arose from either side of it in
a gently curving slope to the base cf two precipitous walls of rock, with-
316 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
in the shelter of which the caurets of Ian Mor had ample pasture for a
stretch of about a quarter of a mile upwards to the spot where the cliffs,
rising in altitude, and apparently unscalable, shut in the glen in a natural
amphitheatre. Ihere the burn issued from a small circular lochan ; and
it was on the farther margin of this piece of water, and immediately at the
foot of the crags behind it, that the small sod hovel of Ian Mor Arrach
was placed, so insignificant a speck amid the vastness of the surrounding
features of nature, as to be hardly distinguished from the rock itself,
especially when approached, as it now was, in the grey light of the morn-
ing, until the sergeant and his party had come very near to it.
(To be Continued.)
PROPOSED VISIT TO OUE TRANSATLANTIC COUSINS.
WE are not in the habit of publishing in these pages the various com-
munications of a nattering character which reach us from many whose
good wishes we value none the less highly on that account — nor the
approving notices which we have almost invariably received since the
origin of this periodical from the home and foreign press. We, how-
ever, feel that we would neither be doing justice to our warm-hearted
friends on the other side, nor to ourselves, in the circumstances, if we did
not show our appreciation of the following warm, though perhaps, on the
whole, somewhat more complimentary tribute than our merits would
entitle us to expect or accept, without some little qualification : —
" A HIGHLAND WELCOME. — Scotsmen living on this side of the Atlantic
— and especially such of them as are of Highland birth or extraction —
will be happy to know that Alex. Mackenzie, the talented editor of the
Celtic Magazine (a periodical of wide celebrity, published in Inverness,
Scotland), intends to spend a portion of the coming summer in a holiday
tour through Canada and the United States, with a view to seeing and
reporting the prose and poetry of life in the bush. Mr Mackenzie, in
addition to his editorial laurels, has earned for himself a very enviable
reputation as the author of a ' Histoiy of the Clan Mackenzie,' ' The Pro-
phecies of the Brahan Seer,' and ' Historical Tales and Legends of the
Highlands,' He Avill be open to engagements as a lecturer, on such sub-
jects as ' Flora Macdonald — her life and times,' ' The present state of the
Highlanders at home and abroad,' 'Higliland valour as exhibited in the
renowned deeds of the Highland Regiments.' &c. We have good ground
for believing Mr Mackenzie to be a gentleman admirably well qualified to
win popular favour as a lecturer on such themes as these. Which, of all
our Caledonian and St Andrew's Societies, will be the first to do itself the
honour of engaging his services ! " — The British Daily Whig, Kingston,
Canada.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 317
EEMNANTS OF GAELIC POETEY.
o
No. IV.-CAITIR BHAN.
THE following verses are by Lachlan Macpherson of Strathmashie. The
subject of them is Caitir Bhan, or Fair Catherine, The poet tells us how
deeply he himself is in love with her. In this, however, he is not singu-
lar. She has among her admirers the minister of the parish, Mr Duncan,
and his assistant, Mr Martin. The former rests his hope of being the
successful suitor on his professional position as the superior in office, the
latter on his personal appearance. A keen contention having arisen be-
tween the clerical rivals as to which of them has the better claim to the
hand and heart of the fair Catherine, the poet, happening to come the
way at the time, tries to put an end to their unseemly strife by making
the ridiculous proposal that they should have her alternately, and by
promising that unless another suitor, who is for the present beyond the
seas, returns home, she will never be taken from them. He accounts for
the great admiration in which Catherine is held, by describing her various
accomplishments and her uncommon personal attractions : —
Mile failt air Caitir Bhan !
Am bheil thu 'd shlaint a' mairsinn 1
0 na dh'f hag mi thu air airidh
Ann an Gleann na Pataig,
Eiamh o 'n la sin, ged bu nar e,
Cha robh caileachd agam,
Cha 'n fhaighinn cadal no pramh
Gun thu bhi teann a' m' ghlacaibh.
'S tu thog an aimhreit ann mo cheann
A chuir air chall an t-acras,
Cha 'n 'eil meadhail dhomh ach gann
0 na theann mo bheachd ort,
Cha 'n 'eil leirsinn, cha 'n 'eil geireid,
Cha 'n 'eil feum no taic annam,
'S ged bhiodh agam spionnadh cheud
Gu 'n chuir mo speis dhuit as da.
'S mor an sarachadh mar tha mi
Anns gach la air m' aiseag,
Tuirseach trom, 's mo chridhe fas,
Ag iarraidh blathais air Caitir,
'S mur toir do chairdeas fein a mhan
Mo shlainte air a h-ais dhomh,
Cha leighis sagart mi no papa,
Ged robh grasan aca.
'S lughaid a tha dhomhsa naire
Gradh a thoirt do Chaitir,
318 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
'S na daoine 's crabhaich' anns a' bhraighe
0 cheann raidhe glact' aic,
'S mor an call 's an seors' a th' ann
Mur dean iad sampuill cheart dhuinn,
'S gur iad a chairich air ar ceann
Na chuir fo cheannsal peacadh.
Maighstir Donncha 's Maighstir Mairtiu
Air an saradh aice,
Chosdadh fear dhiubli searmon Ghaelig
Hi aon ghair thoirt aisde,
Thuirt maighstir Mairtin, 'S tusa 's grainnde,
'S i mo lamh-s' a ghlacar,
Thuirt maighstir Donnch', Tha thusa meallta,
'S mise 's airde facal.
Thainig mis' orr' anns an uair
'S an robh an tuasaid aca,
'S cha b' fhasa learn na 'n to bhi uam
Cho fuathasach 's a dh' at iad,
Thuirt mi, Uaibh e, bithibh sttiama,
'S gheibh sibh uair mu'n seach dhith,
'S mur tig am fear tha thall an cuan
Cha toirear uaibh am feasd i.
Am fear tha aineolach mu ?n te ud
Bheir e beum gun airceas
Do na beisdibh dh' f has an deidh oirr'
'S nach robh feudail aice,
Ach e fein bhi dh' ionnsuidh ceile,
'S eolas feille aige,
Feuch dha 'h-eudann am measg cheud,
'S gu 'n toir e fein a mach i.
Aghaidh mhaiseach, gruaidhean dathta
Suil mar dhearcaig aice,
Ciochan corrach air uchd soluis,
'S moran toil' thombaca,
Muineal ealla, mar an canach,
Deudach gheal mar chailc aic,
A beul dearg tana o 'n cubhr' anail
Cha tig mearachd facail.
Meoir a 's grinne, lamh a 's gile,
Nach bi milleadh anairt,
A siosar daor 's a snathad chaol
Ni 'n greim nach sgaoil air chabhaig,
Thug Nadur caoin gach gibht mhaith saor,
Tha 'm faolum ud barraiclit',
Cha 'n 'eil barr aobhachd, caoirnhneis, daonnachd
Ann an aoraibh aintnl.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 319
Corp seang fallain 's cuimte tarruing,
Calp mar alabaster,
Troidh cliruinn chuimir, a ceum innealt',
Brog nach ceannaich letli-chrun,
TeaBgadh ghasd' a labhras taitneach,
0 'm pailt Beurl a's Laidinn,
'S ami duit is ceirt 'thig peann a ghlacadh
Na do 'n chlarc a th' againn.
'S mor an sabhaladh 's an tabhachd
Do mo chairdibh 'n taic rith'
1 bhi tamli am baile braighe
Ann an aite leth-taoibh,
Cha 'n 'eil mac mna 's an anail blath ann,
'S a chiall-nadair aige,
Ma 's ann a Adhamh, gu bhi 'n gradh
Nach d' f hogliainn dim a faicinn.
Mar chloich daoimein no 'n t-or foinidh,
Bu tu '11 saoi gun choimeas,
Cridhe gaolach, nadur faoilidh,
Inntinn aonta thairis,
'S mor am faobhachadh air saoghal
'N uair a ghlaodbar d' anam,
O nach faod a bhi chloinn daoiue
Bean a chaoidh cho ceanalt.
The minister of Laggan, above-mentioned as " Maighstir Donncha,'
was probably either the predecessor or the successor of the Rev. Andrew
Gallie, to whom reference is repeatedly made in the famous controversy
concerning the authenticity of Ossian's poems.
SEANACHAIDH.
" STEWART'S SKETCHES OF THE HIGHLANDERS.— A new
edition of the ' Sketches of the Highlanders and Highland Regiments/ by
General Stewart of Garth, is being prepared by Mr Alex. Mackenzie, the
zealous editor of the Celtic Magazine, The ' History of the Highland
Regiments ' will be brought down to date, and additions made in the
shape of notes and appendices, but otherwise the work will be reproduced
verbatim from the edition of 1823. The publishers are Messrs A. & W.
Mackenzie, Inverness. — Athenceum. [We learn that, very appropriately,
the 78th will be dealt with by Captain Colin Mackenzie, late of that
regiment, and author of its History in Fullarton's ' Highlands and High-
land Clans.' ' Stewart's Sketches ' has been for some time a rather scarce
work, and we are therefore very glad that this opportunity is to be
afforded to Highlanders at home and abroad of having it in their libraries.
There is no book in existence better entitled to a place there.] " —
Highlander.
320
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
MAIRI CHREAG-A'-GHARAIDH.
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an Ian - daimb, Dhaibh -san leis an aill sud,
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Dhomksa snamh an t - saile, 'S ailm mo ghraidh na m' chumail.
Cfwrus. :g: Fine.
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an iubhrach, Dh'fhas siubhlach
murrach
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Key G.
: m ., m
: f ., f
$ Chorus.
: m ., r
r . d
s . f
d .s
: f ., f s . f
t, ., s,
m ., r
1,
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1, ., 1, I d . d
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Fine.
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m . r
"8 trie, mo leannan cliuiteach,
Chaidh mi 'a ceaon le surd leat,
'S each le acfbuinn bhruite,
Fo chroinn ruisgte ruitk leis.
Sud thu 'n suil na h iar ghaoitb,
Gu d' cbeann uidbe dian dliol,
Mar troimh-neoil na h-iarmailt,
Chitear triall na b-iolair.
Ri am ruith Han reisean,
Mach 'sa chomh stii gheur tbu
Mar gum faicte faoileann
'Snambadb caoil 'measg tbunnag.
Coma co 'm fear uaibbreacb
Bheireadh dbiot am fuaradb,
Bu leat fuliicb-cuain air
Aig ceauu shuas do tburuis.
'Nuair thig tim an iasgaicb,
Co acb tbusa chiad aon,
Fear nan lann ag iarraidh
Cbeart cbo dian ri sulair.
Cba bu tusa mballag
Tbilleadh mar a dh-fhag thu,
'S ann a chleacbd mo Mbairi,
Liontan lau o'n blminne.
NOTE. — The author of the above song is Evan MacColl, the well known Gaelic Bard
who still tunes his lyre in distant Canada as musically and blithely as he did in big
younger days on Lochfyne side. The above song relates to those early days, and is in
praise of his boat, "Mairi Chreag-a' Gbaraidh." — "Bata," he adds in a note accompany-
ing the song when sending it to us, " leis an trie a lean am Bard iasgach an sgadain air
Loch-Fine ann an laithean oi«e." The air ia popular all over the Highlands, and many
songs are sung to it. — W. M'K.
THE
No. XLV. JULY, 1879. VOL. IV.
MEMOIE OF A HIGHLAND OFFICER.
WE regret having to record the death, on the 27th May last, at 41
Queensborough Terrace, London, in his 53d year, of Major-General Alex-
ander Mackay Mackenzie, only surviving son of the late Colonel Alexander
Mackenzie of Gruinard, scion of a family which has produced several distin-
guished officers. General Mackenzie's father was wounded in the neck,
lost an eye, and had two horses killed under him in the Peninsula. His
grandfather on the mother's side was Colonel Mackenzie of Lochend, a
cadet of the family of Gairloch, and a distinguished soldier. John Mac-
kenzie, V. of Gruinard, and uncle to Major-General Mackenzie, sold the
property in 1795, to Henry Davidson of Tulloch, who re-sold it to
Meyrick Bankcs of Letterewe, the present proprietor. Thus the later re-
presentatives of the family had to fight their way in the world, and
honourably did they do it, maintaining the soldierly character of their an-
cestors. General Mackenzie obtained his commission as ensign on the
31st of May 1842. In 1843 and 1844 he served against the insurgents
in Bundelcund, and on the 1st of December 1846 obtained his com-
mission as a lieutenant. He commanded the 8th Irregular Cavalry at the
mutiny of the native troops, at Bareilly, on the 31st May 1857. He tried
hard to induce the regiment — "a regiment," according to Colonel
Malleson, " remarkable for their discipline and intelligence " — to charge
the guns, but failed in doing so. The regiment hitherto stood out loyally,
ar.d Captain Mackenzie had every confidence in them, even after the
other regiments mutinied. He had previously been with them for several
years, as adjutant and second in command. He was devoted to
the regiment, gave to it his undivided care, and "was unsurpassed in
all the qualities of a commanding officer." At ten o'clock on the morning
of the 31st of May, it was reported to Captain Mackenzie by a Hindu
Rissalder of his regiment, that some of the Hindus of his troop had heard
the Sepoys of the 18th and 68th say that they intended to rise that day
at eleven o'clock, and "to murder every European — man, woman, and
child — in the place, seize the treasury, and open the jail." Eeports of the
same kind had been circulated for a fortnight previously which turned out
to be unfounded, and Captain Mackenzie did not, although he had some
suspicions, implicitly believe that the danger was so near. He, however,
took precautionary measures, and sent orders to his native Adjutant to
322 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
warn the native officers commanding troops to be ready to turn out their
men at a moment's notice. He at the same time wrote to Colonel Troup, the
officer in command, informing him of the reports in circulation. He then
ordered his own horse, Lieutenant Becher's, his second in command, and Dr
Currie's to be saddled; breakfasted ; and donned his uniform, so as to be
ready, in any emergency, for immediate action. Scarcely had he done so,
than Captain Brownlow rushed in to inform him that the row had already
began. The reports of the battery guns and the discharge of musketry
immediately confirmed the messenger. Colonel Troup came in. Captain
Mackenzie mounted and rode down where his men were to turn them out.
Colonel Malleson in his " History of the Indian Mutiny " describes the
subsequent action of officers and men as follows : —
"The 1st, 2nd, and 3d troops of the 8th, forming the right wing, were
soon drawn up in front of their lines facing the station. But it seeming
to Mackenzie that the troops of the left wing showed unusual delay, he
proceeded amongst them to hasten their movements. Meanwhile, the
confusion was every moment increasing. From all parts of Barelf, officers,
civilians, and others, were running and riding into the lines for protection.
The artillery and infantry were keeping up a constant and rapid fire on
the fugitives, whilst all around bungalows were beginning to smoke and
blaze. Keeping his head cool all this time, Mackenzie, gallantly aided by
Becher, had turned out the troops of the left wing, and was getting them
into order, when happening to look round, he saw the troops of the right
wing go ' threes right,' and move off at a trot to the right and rear of the
lines. Digging his spurs into his horse, Mackenzie quickly headed the
wing, halted it, and asked by whose order they had moved. The Eissaldar,
commanding the 1st squadron, replied that Colonel Troup had given the
order. Upon this, Mackenzie rode on to Colonel Troup, who had moved
ahead in company with some officers and civilians, and asked what he
proposed to do. Troup, who by the death of the brigadier had become
the senior officer in the station, replied that he proposed to retire on
Nainf Tal. Mackenzie, still feeling sure of his men, earnestly requested
permission to be allowed to take his regiment back and try and recover
the guns. Troup replied that it was useless ; but yielding at last to Mac-
kenzie's urgent pleadings, he consented in these words : ' It is no use ;
but do as you like.'
" The fact was that Colonel Troup, influenced by the information he
had received on the night of the 30th of May and the impression then
formed having been strengthened by the delay of the left wing to turn
out, entirely mistrusted the 8th Irregulars. Mackenzie on the other
hand, whilst thoroughly believing in them, felt satisfied that the order
given to them by Colonel Troup to follow the Europeans to Naini Tal was
the one order which would try theii fidelity to the utmost, as the carrying
it out would impose upon them the necessity to leave all their property,
and, in some instances, those for whom they cared more than for their
property, at the mercy of the rebels. There can be no doubt now that
the information on which Colonel Troup acted was partly true. There
were traitors amongst the 8th Irregulars. Prominent amongst these was
the senior native officer, Mahomed Shaffi. This man had been gained
over by Khun. Bahadur Ivhan, and had in his turn done his best to gain
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 323
the men. Yet it is to be regretted, I think, that Mackenzie's arrangements
were interfered with before the temper of the men had been actually
tested. The movement to the right, and the remonstrance with Colonel
Troup, lost many precious moments at a most critical period.
" The value of a few moments was never more clearly demonstrated
than on this occasion. Whilst Mackenzie had been talking to Colonel
Troup, the left wing had been drawing up in line. The moment they
were quite ready, the traitor, Mahomed Shafff, watching his opportunity,
gave the order to the men of the wing to follow him, and at once rode
towards the cantonment. Mackenzie heard the tramp of their horses'
feet the moment after he had received Colonel Troup's permission to do
as he liked. He did not at once realise the cause of their action, for
almost simultaneously with it arose the cry that they had gone to charge
the guns. Mackenzie at once addressed the men of the right wing,
and told them he was going to take them to recover the guns. The
men received the intelligence with apparent delight, and followed Mac-
kenzie— accompanied by Mr Guthrie, the magistrate, and some officers* —
at a steady trot to the parade-ground. On arriving there they found the
left wing draAvn up, apparently fraternising with the rebels. It was
necessary to bring them back, if possible, to their allegiance, so Macken-
zie, leaving his right wing under charge of Becher, rode up to them and
addressed them. Whilst, however, in the act of speaking, and after the
men had shown a disposition to follow him, there arose from the magazine
of the 18th Native Infantry — the point where the mutinous sepoys were
massed, and where a gun had been placed — a cry summoning all the sow-
ars to rally round the Mahomedan flag and to uphold their religion,
' otherwise,' shouted the speaker, ' the Mahomedans will be forced to eat
pork, and the Hindus beef.' At the same time a green flag was hoisted.
The cry and the sight of the flag arrested the favourable disposition of
the men of the left wing, and Mackenzie finding his efforts with them
hopeless, rode back to the right. Here, however, a new disappointment
awaited him. The men of this wing had felt the influence acting on the
left, and had began to steal off. By the time Mackenzie returned, men
to the number of about one troop alone remained. Amongst these were
most of the native officers. With so small a body it was hopeless to
charge, and it was almost certain that an order to that effect would not
have been obeyed. Mackenzie retired then in the direction taken by
Colonel Troup and the others. As he passed his regimental lines more
men dropped away, and before he had gone half a mile, the number of
the faithful was reduced to twenty-three, of whom twelve were native
officers ! t They overtook Colonel Troup and his party twenty-three
* Their names were Captain Kirby and Leutenant Fraser of the Artillery ; Captain
Paterson and Lieutenant Warde, 68th Native Infantry ; Lieutenant Hunter, 18th Native
Infantry.
t It is due to these twenty-three men to place on record that though every possible
temptation was held out to them to desert the Europeans not o»e of them yielded to it.
Amid many trials they remained faithful, and managed to do excellent service. The
Rissaldar, Mahomed Nazim Khan, not only left all his property, but three children be-
hind, to obey the call of duty. Mackenzie's orderly, a Mahomedan, rode throughout the
retreat of sixty-six miles Mackenzie's second charger, a magnificent Arab, on which it
would have been easy for him to ride off. But he was faithful, and when the horse
Mackenzie was riding dropped dead, the orderly at once dismounted and came on on foot.
32 1 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
miles from Bareli. Troup was warm in his acknowledgments. In truth
he never expected to sec them. ' Thank God,' he exclaimed to Mac-
kenzie, as the latter rode up, 'I feared you had gone to cer'ain death.'
The retiring party, now united, proceeded without a halt to Nairn T.-il,
accomplishing the distance , sixty-six miles, in twenty-two hours."
On the 20th October 1857, an order is issued by Colonel M'Ausland,
in which he says that he cannot allow Captain Mackenzie, with his regi-
inent, to leave the Province of Kumoan " without acknowledging tin'
valuable services performed by that regiment, from the period they so
nobly protected and escorted the officers and European residents from
Biireilly to Nynee Tal after the mutiny of 31st May last, to the present
date." The Colonel brought "the loyal and gallant conduct" of the
officers and men " prominently to the notice of his Excellency the ( \>m-
mander-iii-Cliief," and tendered to Captain Mackenzie and his men his
best thanks and acknowledgements "for their services, which have so
mainly contributed to the safety of the province." Colonel Troup, ('.I'..,
senior surviving officer of the Bareilly Brigade, wrote to Captain Mac-
kenzie on the 24th January 1858 : — "I beg to acknowledge the receipt of
the gratifying intelligence that the Supreme Government of India Lad
been pleased to confer on the Native officers and men of the regiment
under your command the ranks and distinctions to which, as a mere matter
of justice, I deemed it my duty to recommend them, as some reward for
their most extraordinary devotion and gallant conduct on the 3 1st of May
last, under trials and temptations such as, in my opinion, soldiers were never
before exposed to, and for their marked uniform good conduct, under no
ordinary difficulties, from that to the present date. I would fain hope t hat ,
when matters become more settled to admit of your superiors having leisure
to look into matters of perhaps less importance than those which, at present,
engross their valuable time, your own indefatigable and unwearied exer-
tions, and the gallant example you set your men on the occasion above
referred to, and to which I can at all times bear the most ample and un-
deniable testimony, will not long remain unrewarded by Government."
He now joined Mr J. C. Wilson, and, in command of the faithful
remnant of the 8th Irregulars, aided in preserving 48 Christian refugees
who had been sheltered by friendly Hindoos at Eohilcund, He became
brevet captain December 9, 1857, and raised the new 8th Irregular
Cavalry (afterwards the Gth Bengal Cavalry), and served throughout the
siege and capture of Luckuow, commanded a portion of the regiment on
These men had their reward when the regiment was re-organised, and they redeemed, on
the Gth of April 1858, the good name of their regiment, being commended for the
" marked gallantry " they displayed at Harha in Oudh under the command of Captain
Mackenzie. In the text I have recorded a plain and unadorned statement of the conduct
of Captain Mackenzie and Lieutenant Becher on this trying occasion. It is but just to
both those officers that the opinion of the officer commanding the brigade to which they
belonged should be added. In his report on the events recorded in the text Colonel
Troup thus wrote : — " In justice to Captain Mackenzie and Lieutenant Becher I consider
it my duty, however much they, like others, may have been deceived by their men, to
state that in my opinion no two officers could have behaved better towards, or shown a
better or more gallant example to their men than they did. I was in daily, I may say
hourly, communication with them, and I have great pleasure in stating that from the
vi-iy lirst to the last they were unremitting in the performance of the many harassing
duties required of thi'in.'1 Colonel Troup further recommended them to the favourable
notice of tlit (JyiMijKiider-in-Cbief.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 325
the 5th April 1858, on which occasion he charged the rebels, and after a
desperate resistance cut up the rebel leader, Lullah Singh, and the whole
of his body-guard. Upwards of one-fourth of his men Avere killed or
wounded, and his own charger wounded. Major-General Sir J. E. AV".
Inglis, Deputy Adjutant-General of the Army, sends a report to the Se-
cretary of the Indian Government, dated Cawnpore, 6th April 1858, which
ends thus : — " In conclusion, I beg to be permitted to bring to the
favourable notice of his Excellency the Commander-in-Chief the excellent
services rendered by Captain Mackenzie, who, with the faithful remnant
of his corps, most gallantly charged and destroyed a troublesome enemy
(Lullah Singh) and 'his body guard, all of whom rallied round their leader
and fought desperately." Captain Evans, Deputy Commissioner of Oonao,
in reporting the result of this engagement, says: — " The death of the
rebel leader, Lullah Singh, who, with all his immediate clansmen, was cut
up by the Irregular Cavalry under Captain Mackenzie, is likely to hava
the best effect in causing that part of my district to become more settled."
Captain Mackenzie was called upon, in a letter, dated 9th April 1858,
from the Deputy Adjutant-General of the Army, to recommend to his
Excellency the Commander-in-Chief two of the soldiers engaged under
him at Hurha who most distinguished themselves, with a view to their re-
ceiving the " Order of Merit " for their gallantry.
In 18G2 we find him commanding the Deolee Irregular Force, on
which occasion the agent for the Governor-General at llajpootaha, after
having made a minute inspection of the force under his command, ex-
presses his " entire satisfaction with the efficiency of the force, which re-
flects considerable credit on yourself, the second in command, and adjutant."
And he is especially pleased to find over 200 Meenas in the Infantry, and
that Mackenzie was carrying out one of the chief objects in the raising and
maintenance of the force, " by entirely recruiting from this wild clan." In
the same year the gallant officer obtained his majority, and in 18G8 he is
lieutenant-colonel. In 1869 he was appointed to make enquiry as to the
condition of the Banswarra State on which occasion the duties have been
" both efficiently and carefully carried out," and his report "is exhaustive in
detail of particulars regarding the Government, and the state of the country
and its people. " In 1 870 he commanded the Mey war Bheel Corps, while he
was at the same time first Assistant Political Agent at Mey war. Brigadier-
General Montgomery, after inspecting the force, speaks most highly of
them, and writes to Colonel Mackenzie that while he saw " a great deal to
admire, he saw nothing to find fault with." The drill and discipline is
" all that can be desired," and a spirit of cheerfulness and contentment
pervaded all ranks which impressed General Montgomery most favourably.
He never saw a regiment go better past at the double and " there is a
spring and life in the movement of the Bheels, which show that they
must take a pride in their work." Colonel Mackenzie was not, however,
satisfied with the ordinary drill routine, but introduced games among his
men, with which the inspecting officer is highly pleased, and on which he
remarks as follows : — " My report on your corps would be incomplete if I
neglected to notice the games which followed the inspection. I think the
institution by you of these games most praiseworthy, and, the hearty way
in Avhich the Bheels join shows that they are highly appreciated by them
326 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
I believe they will do more than merely amuse, for the people will think
well of the officers who enter so cordially into their sports. The shooting
for prizes will draw out skill in their weapons, and the other sports will
draw out hearty, manly qualities The corps was originated to
introduce civilization among the Bheels, and I believe your management
will tend to further that object, and to make the Bheels appreciate serving
under British officers."
He was appointed Political Superintendent of the Hilly Tracts of
Meywar, in addition to his other offices, and on the 20th of February
1871 Lieutenant-Colonel J. P. Nixon, Political Agent at Meywar, wrote
to him as follows : — " As the time is now at hand Avhen you are about to
make over the command of the Bheel Corps and vacate your political ap-
pointment as the 1st Assistant Political Agent and Political Superintend-
ent of the Meywar Hilly Tracts, I think it my duty to place on record
the great regret I feel at losing the services of so efficient and valuable an
assistant as you have proved yourself to be, and at the same time to
tender you my thanks for the able and masterly way in which you have
conducted the duties of your office. I must especially notice the tact and
discretion you have displayed on all occasions, as also the cordial good
feeling you have fostered and sustained, not only among the chiefs and
native gentry of the Hilly Tracts with whom you have been associated,
but also amid the wild tribes whom you have had to control. It is to be
hoped that the beneficent and kindly sway with which you have managed
the Bheels will increase their attachment to our Government, and continue
to justify us in that policy of humanity which dictated our acceptance of
the position of trust we hold towards them. His Highness the Maha
Eana of Oodeypore has requested me to convey to you his sentiments of
regret at your departure, and his acknowledgements of the cordial good
feeling which has prevailed between yourself and the Durbar during your
tenure of office, which has not only facilitated the transaction of official
business, but has greatly simplified the difficulties inherent in a dual
Government. I can only hope that at some future period your high
abilities will procure you promotion in the Political department, in which
you have served for the past eight years so devotedly and zealously." The
folio win <r conveying the thanks of the Government of India is addressed
to him by the officiating Agent Governor-General, Rajpootana : — " Camp
Palee, 25th March 1871. — Under instructions from his Excellency the
Viceroy and Governor-General of India in Council, I am. directed to com-
municate to you the cordial thanks of the Goverinent of India for your
exertions during the calamitous famine in Eajpootana in the years 1868
and 1869. The care and attention you bestowed on the relief of distress
prevented any outbreak or plunder in that most difficult part of the
country, the Bheel Tracts, which were sorely oppressed by the famine.
The orderly quiet which prevailed during the whole period of the distress
reflects much credit on you, and I am commanded to acknowledge it on
the part of Government." In 1873 he became full colonel, and major-
general in 1874.
It will be seen from the above quoted official documents that the late
Major-General Mackenzie, who was heir-male of the family of Gruinard,
descended from flie Earls of Seaforth, was a most distinguished officer, and
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 327
that he rendered excellent service to the Government. And as it is part
of our object and intention to commemorate such men and such services
among our Highland countrymen, where the means are available, we make
no apology for the length of this notice. The form in which we have
given it will, we feel sure, be considered much more valuable than if we
had given the substance of the documents and other information in our own
phraseology. General Mackenzie married Marion, daughter of the Rev.
William Colville of NeAvton, Cambridge-shire, by whom he had issue, two
sons — John, now the representative of the family of Gruinard, and Stuart ;
also, two daughters, Lilias and Sybil, all of whom survive him. He took
a great interest in the history of his ancestors, as well as in everything per-
taining to the Highlands ; and on all occasions his great ambition was to
send down to his successors, untarnished, as far as he was concerned, the
honour of his ancestors and the good name of his beloved Highlands.
A. M.
RETURNED.
Drooping lilacs nod and sway
All your fragrant purple plumes ;
Robins sing your sweetest lay
'Mid the dainty apple blooms ;
Golden sunshine flowerets rare,
Smile and blossom bright I pray ;
Smile, O sky ! O winds, blow fair !
For my lover comes to-day.
Comes from sailing o'er the main,
Back to wed bis promised bride ;
From the casement once again
I 'shall see his swift bark glide
Up the silver-crested bay,
Where the ripples dance and gleam
'Till beneath the sunlight they
Waves of liquid silver seem.
Just one little year ago
Since we parted on the strand ;
Then, as now, like perfumed snow,
Blossoms strewed the meadow land ;
Earth hath donned her robe of green —
Daisy broideted, gemmed with gold.
Ah, how like a troubled dream
Seem the months that since have rolled
Hasten, darling, o'er the sea,
For to-day is due thy vow ;
" Love, you whispered, look for me
When upon the eritus(on bough
Of the mnple, blue birds sing ;
When the swallow 'neath the eaves
Toy crowned are twittering,
And the zephyrs woo the leaves."
Drooping lilacs nod and sway
All your fragrant purple plumes ;
Robins sing your sweetest lay
'Mid the dainty apple blooms ;
For my own true lover now
Clasps me closely to his heart :
Whispers, kissing cheek and brow,
" Darling, mine, no more we part."
-American Scotsman. MARY J. MACCOLL.
328 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
JOHN MACK AY, OK IAN MOR AIREACH,
BY THE LATE SlR THOMAS DlCK LAUDER, BART,
[CONCLUDED.]
THE leader of the enterprise felt that no time was to be lost in a
survey, lest, whilst they were hesitating, Ian might perceive them, and
again make his escape. A simultaneous rush, therefore, was made for
the door ; but albeit that Ian generally left it unfastened, lie had some-
how or other been led to secure it on this occasion, by lifting a stone of
no ordinary size, which usually served him as a seat, and placing it as a
barricade against it on the inside. Their first attempt to force it being
thus rendered altogether unavailing, —
" John Mackay, otherwise Ian Mor Aireach, open to us in the name of
King George," cried the sergeant, standing at the full length, of his pike
from the door, and poking against it with the point of the weapon.
" Fat wud King Shorge hae wi' Ian Mor?" demanded the Highlander.
" Come, open the door and surrender peaceably," cried the sergeant ;
"you are the King's lawful recruit. You have been guilty of nu.l'ny
and desartion ; but if you will surrender at discretion, and come quietly
along with us, it is not unlikely that, in consideration of your being as yet
untaught, and still half a savage, you may not be exactly shot this bout ;
though it is but little inarcy you desarve, considering how confoundedly
my back aches with the rough treatment I had from you. Keep close to
the door, my lads," continued he, sinking his voice, " and be ready to
spring on him the moment he comes out."
Whilst the sergeant yet spoke, the whole hovel began to heave like
some vast animal agonized with internal throes. The men of the party
stood aghast for one moment, and in the next the back wall of the sod
edifice was hurled outwards, and the roof, losing its support, fell in-
wards, raising a cloud of dust so dense as utterly to conceal for a time the
individual who was the cause and instrument of its destruction.
" Ha ! look sharp, my lads !" cried the sergeant, " be on your mettle."
The words were scarcely out of his mouth, when the herculean form
of Ian Mor arose before his eyes, from amidst the debris and dust, as did
the figure of the Genii from the jar, before those of the fisherman in the
Eastern fable.
" There he is, by Jupiter ! " cried the sergeant, involuntarily retreat-
ing a step or two. " On him ! — on him, and seize him, my brave boys !"
The nature of the spot seemed to forbid all hope of escape. The party
blocked up the space in front of the bothy, and the narrow stripe of
ground that stretched along between the lake on the one hand, and the
cliffs on the other, grew more and more confined as it ran backwards,
until it disappeared altogether at a point about an hundred yards distant,
where the crags rose sheer up out of the water. In this direction Ian
Mor moved slowly off, after throwing on the throng of his assailants a
grim smile, which, however, had more of pity than of anger in it. Before
he had taken a dozen steps, the most forward of the party were at his
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 329
skirts. He turned smartly round, and suddenly catching up the first man
in his arms, he sent him spinning through the air into the lake, as if he
had been a puppy clog. The next in succession was seized with astonish-
ment, but before he could shake himself free of it, he was seized by some-
thing more formidable, I mean by the iron hands of Ian Mor, Avho flung
him also far amid the waters after his fellow. A whole knot of those
who followed then sprang upon him at once, but he patted them off, one
after another, as if they had been so many flies, and that he had been
afraid to hurt them ; but, as it was impossible for him to accommodate his
hits with mathematical precision to the gentleness of his intentions, some
of the individuals who received them bore the marks of them for many a
day afterwards. The ardour of the attack became infinitely cooled down.
But still there were certain fiery spirits who coveted glory. These, as they
came boldly up, successively shared the fate of those who had gone before
them. Some were stretched out, as chance threw them, to measure their
dimensions on terra firma, whilst others were hurled hissing hot into
the lake, where they were left at leisure to form some estimate of their
own specific gravity in a depth of water which was just shallow enough
to save them from drowning. Meanwhile, the object of their attack con-
tinued to stalk slowly onwards at intervals, smiling on them from time to
time, as he turned to survey the shattered remains of the attacking army,
that now followed him at a respectful distance, and halted every time he
faced them. The sergeant, like an able general, kept poking them on in
the rear with his pike, and upbraiding them for their cowardice. Mean-
while Ian gradually gained ground on them, and having produced an in-
terval of some twenty or thirty yards between himself and them, just as
they thought that he had arrived at a point where further retreat was
impossible, he suddenly disappeared into a crack in the face of the cliif,
hitherto unobserved, and on reaching the place, they found that the fear-
less mountaineer had made his slippery way up the chimney-like cleft,
amidst the white foam of a descending rill, that was one of the main
feeders of the Lochan, into which it poured.
" The feller has vanished into the clouds," said the sergeant, shuddering
with horror as he looked up the perilous rocky funnel, and at the same
time, secretly congratulating himself that Ian had not stood to bay. "'He
has vanished into the clouds, just out of our very hands, as I may say.
Who was to think of their being any such ape's ladder as this here ?"
The party returned, sullen and discomfited, to the strath, and their
leader now gave up all hopes of capturing Ian Mor Aireach, either by
stratagem or force. But his thirst for the large sum which he expected
to realize by producing such a man at head -quarters, rendered him quite
restless and unremitting in his inquiries, the result of which was that he
found out that Lord Seaforth, then, I believe, Lord-Lieutenant of the
county, might do something towards apprehending the runaway. He
accordingly waited on his Lordship to request his interference for pro-
curing the seizure of John Mackay, surnamed Ian Mor Aireach, a deserter
from his Majesty's service. Lord Seaforth enquired into the case, and
believing that the man had been fairly enlisted, he procured his immedi-
ate appearance at Brahan Castle, by going the right way to work with
him. There, it so happened, that Lord Eae was at that time a visitor,
330 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
and Lord Seaforth called in his aid to work upon Ian Mor, who bowed to
the ground in submission to the wishes of his chief.
•' Tliis is an unlucky business, Ian Mor," said Lord Eae, " it seems
that you have deserted from the King's service, after having accepted his
money, and that moreover, you have twice deforced the officer and part}'-.
Your case, I fear, is a bad one. Depend upon it, they Avill have you, if
it should cost them the sending of a whole regiment after you ; and then,
if you give them so much trouble, no one can say what may be the con-
sequence. Take my advice, and give yourself up quietly. I shall write
to your commanding officer in such terms as will save you from any very
bad consequences ; and with the recommendations which you shall have,
there is no saying but you may be an officer ere long. All the Mackays
are brave fellows ; and if all I have heard be true, it appears that you are
no disgrace to the name."
Ian was too proud of the interest taken in him by his noble chief, to
dispute his advice or wishes for one moment. He would have sacrificed
his life for him. And accordingly, abandoning his mountain-glen and his
caurets, he surrendered himself to the sergeant, who implicitly obeyed the
instructions he received from Lord Rae to treat him kindly, particularly
as they were backed up with a handsome douceur ; and Ian was soon
afterwards embarked to join his regiment, then quartered in Guernsey.
The regiment that Ian Mor was attached to was almost entirely a new
levy, and the recruits were speedily put on garrison duty, frivolous per-
haps in itself, but probably given to them more as a lesson, in order that
they might become familiar with it, than from any absolute necessity for
it. It so happened, that.the first guard that Ian mounted, he was planted
as a night sentinel on the Queen's Battery. The instructions given to his
particular post were to take especial care that no injury should happen to a
certain six-pounder, which there rested on its carriage ; and when the
corporal of the guard marched Ian up as a relief, he laughed heartily to
hear the earnest assurances which he gave, in answer to the instructions
he received from the man he was relieving, " Tat not a bonn o' ta body o'
ta wee gunnie sould be hurt, at a', at a', while he had ta care o' her."
And Ian kept his word ; for he watched over the beautiful little piece
of ordnance with the greatest solicitude. It so happened, however, that
whilst he was walking his lonely round, a heavy shower of rain began to
fall, and a bitter freezing blast soon converted every particle of it into a
separate cake of ice, which cut against his nose and eyes, and nearly
scarified his face, so that much as he had been accustomed to the snarling
climate of the higher regions of the interior of Scotland, he felt as if he
would lose his eye-sight from the inclemency of the weather ; and then
he began to reason that if he should lose his eye-sight, how could he take
care of the gun ? His anxiety for the safety of his charge, united to a
certain desire for his own comfort, induced him gravely to consider what
was best to be done. He surveyed the gun, and as he did so, he began to
think that it was extremely absurd that he should be standing by its side
for two long hours, whilst he might so easily provide for its security in
some place of shelter ; and accordingly he quietly removed it from its
carriage, and poising it very adroitly on his shoulder, he earned it de-
liberately away.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE, 331
Strong as Ian was, the position and the weight of the six-pounder,
considerably more than half a ton, compelled him to walk with a stiff
mien and a solemn, measured, and heavy tread. He had to pass by two
or three sentinels. These were all raw unformed recruits like himself, and
full of Highland superstitions. Each of them challenged him in succes-
sion as his footstep approached ; but Ian was too much intent on keeping
his burden properly balanced to be able to reply. He moved on steadily
and silently therefore, with his eye-balls protruded and fixed, from the
exertion he was making, and with his whole countenance wearing a strange
and portentous expression of anxiety, which was heightened by a certain
pale blue light that fell upon it from one part of the stormy sky. Instead
of attempting to oppose or to arrest such a phantom, which came upon
them in the midst of the tempest, like some unearthly being which had
been busied in the very creation of it, each sentry fled before it, and the
whole rampart was speedily cleared.
It was not many minutes after this that the visiting sergeant went his
rounds. To his great surprise, he was not challenged by the sentry upon
Ian Mor's post ; and to his still greater astonishment, he was permitted to
advance with impunity till he discovered that Ian Mor was not there.
But what was yet most wonderful of all, the gun of which he was especial
guardian was gone.
" Lurd ha' mercy on us !" exclaimed the corporal, " I see'd the man
planted here myself alongside the piece of ordnance ; what can have be-
come of them both 1"
11 'Tis mortal strange," said the sergeant. " Do you stand fast here,
corporal, till we go down the rampart a bit, to see if we can see anything."
" Nay, with your leave, sergeant," said the corporal, " I see no use in
leaving me here to face the devil. Had we not better go and report this
strange matter to the officer of the guard ?"
" Nonsense, — obey my orders ; and if you do see the devil, be sure
you make him give you the countersign," said the sergeant, who had had
all such fears rubbed off by a long life of hard service.
On walked the sergeant along the rampart. The other sentries were
gone also. One man only he at last found, and him he dragged forth from
under a gun-carriage.
" Why have you deserted your post, you trembling wretch ? " de-
manded the sergeant.
" Did you not see it, then ? " said the man, with a terrified look.
" See what ? " asked the sergeant.
" The devil, in the shape of Ian Mor Aireach, with his face like a
flaming furnace, shouldering a four-and-twenty pounder," replied the
man ; " och, it was a terrible sight."
" By jingo, my boy, your back will be made a worse spectacle of be-
fore long, if I don't mistake," said the sergeant.
By this time a buzz of voices was heard. The guard had been alarmed
by the fugitive sentries, whose fright had carried them with ghastly looks
to the guard-room. The guard had alarmed the garrison, and the whole
place was thrown into confusion. Soldiers, non-commissioned officers,
and officers were seen running and heard vociferating in all directions,
lanterns and flambeaux were everywhere flitting about like fire-flies, and
332 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
soldiers' wives and children wore heard screaming and crying. The cause
of the tumult was reported in a thousand different ways. Some of the
least rational of the women and juveniles even believed and asserted that
an enemy had lauded on the island ; whilst those who leally were awaiv
that the true cause of the uproar was Ian Mor's mysterious disappearance,
were employed in searching everywhere for him and the six-pounder ; Imt
he was nowhere to be found, and wonder and astonishment multiplied at
every step.
At length the tumult rose to such a height, that the commanding-
officer was roused, and hurrying on his clothes, he came running to the
Queen's "Battery to know Avhat all the hubbub was about. The place was
filled with a crowd of all ranks, each individual of which was ready to
hazard his own conjecture in explanation of this most unaccountable
event. All gave way at the colonel's approach. After hearing what had
happened, he enquired into the circumstances so far as they were known;
he listened calmly and attentively to the various accounts of those who
had been making ineffectual search, and having heard all of them patiently
to an end —
" This is very strange," said he ; " but well as you have searched, it
appears to me that none of you seem, to* have ever thought of looking for
him in his barrack-room. Let us go there."
Off went the colonel, accordingly, to the barrack-room, followed by as
many curious officers and soldiers as could well crowd after him; and
there, to be sure, snug in bed, and sound asleep, lay Ian Mor Aireach, with
the piece of artillery in his arms, and his cheek close to the muzzle of it,
which was sticking out from under the blanket that covered both of them.
The spectacle was too ridiculous, even for the colonel's gravity. He and
all around him gave way to uncontrollable bursts of laughter, that speedily
awaked Ian from the deep sleep in which he was plunged. He stared
around him with astonishment.
" What made you leave your post, you rascal 1 " demanded the
sergeant of the guard, so much provoked as to forget himself before his
commanding officer.
" Nay, nay," said the colonel, who already knew something of Ian,
from the letter which he had received from his chief, "you cannot say
that he has left his post; for you see he has taken his post along with
him."
" Is na ta wee bit gunnie as weil aside her nanesell here," said Ian,
with an innocent smile. " Is she na mockell better here aside her nane-
sell, nor wi' her nanesell stannin cauld an weet aside her yonder on ta
Pattry?"
" Well, well," said the colonel, after a hearty laugh. " But how did
you manage to bring the gun here ? "
" Ou troth her nanesell carried her," replied Ian.
" Come, then," said the colonel, " if you will instantly carry it back
again to the place whence you took it, nothing more shall be said about it. "
" Toots ! but she'll soon do tat," said Ian, starting out of bed, and
immediately raising the gun to his shoulder; he set out with it, fol-
lowed by the colonel and every one within reach ; and, to the great
astonishment of all of them, he marched slowly and steadily towards tlu>
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 333
battery with it, and replaced it on its carriage, amidst the loud cheers of
all who beheld him.
As Ian. was naturally a quiet, sober, peaceable, and well-behaved man,
a thorough knowledge of his duty soon converted him into a most invalu-
able soldier ; and nature having made him a perfect model, both as to
mould and symmetry of form, the colonel, who took a peculiar fancy to
him, soon saw that he was altogether too tall and fine looking a man to
be kept in the ranks. Accordingly he had him struck oif from the
ordinary routine of domestic duty, and drilled as a fugleman, in which
distinguished situation Ian continued to figure until his services were
terminated by an unlucky accident.
It happened one evening that the colonel of an English regiment
dined at the mess of the Highland corps. In the course of conversation
this gentleman offered a bet that lie had a man who would beat any in-
dividual who could be picked from among the Highlanders. One of the
Highland officers immediately took him up and engaged to produce a man
to meet the English champion next moining. By break of day, there-
fore, he sent for Ian Mor Aireach, and told him Avhat had occurred, and
then added —
" You are to be my man, Ian ; and I think it will be 110 hard thing for
you who shouldered the six pounder to pound this boasting pock-pudding."
" Troth, na," said Ian, shaking his head, " ta pock-pudden no done
her nae ill, — fat for wad she be tighten her ? Troth her honour may e'en
fight ta man hersell, for her nanesell wull no be doin' nae siccan a thing."
" Tut ! nonsense, man," said the officer, " you must fight him, aye
and lick him. too ; and you shall not only carry off the honour, but you
shall have a handsome purse of money for doing so."
" Na, na," said Ian, " ta man no dune her nae ill ava, an she'll no be
fighten for ony body's siller but King Shorge's."
'• Surely you're not afraid of him,", said the officer, trying to rouse his
pride.
" Hout, na ! " replied Ian Mor, with a calm, good-humoured smile ;
" she no be feart for no man livin'."
" So you wont fight," said the officer,
" Troth, na," said Ian, " she canna be fighten wissout nae raison."
" Surely your own honour — the honour of the regiment — the honour
of Scotland — the purse of gold — and my wishes thus earnestly expressed,
ought to be reasons enough with you. But since you refuse, I must go
to Alister Mackay ; he will have no such scruples, I'll warrant me."
This last observation was a master-stroke of policy on the part of the
officer. Alister Mackay Avas a stout athletic young man ; but he was by
no means a match for the English prize-fighter. Nor did the officer mean
that he should be opposed to him ; for he only named him, knowing that
he was a cousin of Ian Mor's, and one for whom he had the affection of a
brother ; and he was quite sure that his apprehension for Alister's safety
would be too great to allow him to be absent from the field, if it did not
induce him to take his place in the combat. And it turned out as he had an-
ticipated. Ian came, eagerly pressing forward into the throng ; and no
sooner did he appeal1, than the officer pointed him out to the Englishman,
as the man that was to be pitted against him ; and as the Highlanders
331 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
naturally took it for granted, that the big fugleman was to be their man,
they quickly made a ring for him amidst loud cheering.
" Come away, Goliath ! come on ! " cried the Englishman, tossing his
hat in the air, and his coat to one side. Ian minded him not. But the
growing and intolerable insolence of the bully did the rest ; for, presum-
ing on lan's apparent backwardness, he strode up to him with his arms a-
kimbo, and spit in his face.
" Fat is she do tat for ? " asked Ian simply of those around him.
" He has done it to make people believe that you are a coward, and
afraid to fight him," — said the Highland officer, who backed him.
" Tell her no to do tat again," said Ian seriously.
" There ! " said the boxer ; repeating the insult.
AVithout showing the smallest loss of temper, Ian made an effort to
lay hold of his opponent, but the Englishman squared at him, and hit him
several smart blows in succession, not one of which the unpracticed High-
lander had the least idea of guarding.
" Ha ! " exclaimed the Highland officer, " I fear you will be beaten,
Ian."
" Foo ! " cried Ian coolly, " she be strikin' her to be sure, but she be
na hurtin' her. But an she disna gie ower an her nanesell gets one stroak
at her, she'll swarrants she'll no seek nae mair."
The Englishman gave him two or three more hard hits that went
against his breast, as if they had gone against an oaken door ; but at last
Ian raised his arm, and swept it round horizontally with a force that broke
through all his antagonist's guards ; and the blow striking his left cheek,
as if it had come from a sledge hammer, it actually drove the bones of the
jaw on that side quite through the opposite skin, and, at the same time,
smashed the whole skull to fragments. The man fell, like a log, dead on
the spot ; and horror and astonishment seized the spectators.
" Och hone ! och hone ! " cried Ian Mor, running to lift him from the
ground, in an agony of distress, " She's dootin' she kilt ta poor man."
Ian Avas thrown into a fit of the deepest despair and sorrow by this sad
catastrophe, sufficiently proving to every one around him, that his heart
was made of the most generous stuff; and, indeed, the effect of the horrible
spectacle they had witnessed, was such as to throw a gloom on all who
were present, and especially on those who were more immediately con-
cerned Avith the wager. The case was decidedly considered as one of
justifiable homicide. It was hushed up by general consent, and a pass
was granted to Ian to return to Scotland.
As he was slowly journeying homeward, Ian happened to spend a
night at Stonehavcn, and, as he was inquiring of his landlord as to the
way he was to take in the morning, the man told him that he might save
some distance by taking a short cut through the park of Ury, the residence
of Mr Barclay of Ury, who, as you probably know, was even more remark-
able for feats of bodily strength than his son, Captain Barclay, the cele-
brated pedestrian.
" Ye may try the fut-road through the park," said lan's host ; " but
oddsake, man, tak' care an' no meet the laird, for he's an awfu' chiel,
though he be a Quaker, and gif ye do meet him 1 rauken that ye'll just
hae to come yere ways back again."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 335
" Fat for she do tat ? " demanded Ian.
" On, he's a terrible man the laird," continued the landlord. " What
think ye 1 — there was ae night that a poor tinker hotly had pntten his hit
patiney into ane of the laird's inclosures, that it might get a sly rug o' the
grass. Aweel, the laird comes oot in the mornin', an' the moment he
spied the beast, he ga'ed tilt like anither Samson, and he lifted it up in
his ainns and flang it clean oot ower the dyke. As sure as ought, gif he
meets you, an' he disna throw you ower the dyke, he'll gar ye gang ilka
fit o' the road back again."
" Tuts ! she'll try," replied Ian.
Soon after sunrise, Ian took the forbidden path, and he had pursued
it without molestation for a considerable way, when he heard some one
hallooing after him, and turning his head to look back, he beheld a
gentleman whom he at once guessed to be the laird, hurrying up to him.
" Soldier !" cried Mr Barclay, " I allow no one to go this way, so thou
must turn thee back."
" She be sorry tat she has anghered her honour," said Ian bowing sub-
missively, " but troth it be ower far a gate to gang back noo."
" Far gate or short gate, friend, back thou must go," said Mr Barclay.
" Hoot na ! she canna gang back," said Ian.
" But thou must go back, friend," said the laird.
" Troth, she wunna gang back," replied Ian.
" But thou must go back, I tell thee," said the laird, " and if thou
wilt not go back peaceably, I'll turn thee back whether with thy will
or not."
" Hoot, toot, she no be fit to turn her back," said Ian with one of his
broad good-humoured grins.
" I'll try," said the laird, laying his hands on lan's shoulders to carry
his threat into immediate execution.
" An she be for tat," said Ian, " let her lay doon her wallet, an' she'll
see whuther she can gar her turn or no."
" By all means, good friend," said the laird, who enjoyed a thing of
the kind beyond all measure. " Off with thy Avallet, then. Far be it
from me to take any unseemly advantage of thee."
The wallet being quietly deposited on the ground, to it they went ;
but ere they had well buckled together, Ian put down the laird beside the
wallet with the same ease that he had put down the wallet itself.
" Ha ! " cried the laird, as much overcome with surprise at a defeat,
which he had never before experienced, as he had been by the strength
that had produced it. " Thou didst take me too much o' the sudden,
friend, — but give me fair play. Let me up and I will essay to wrestle
with thee again."
" Weel, weel," said Ian coolly, " she may tak' her ain laizier to rise,
for her nanesell has plenty o' sun afore her or night."
" Come on then," said Mr Barclay, grappling again with his antagonist
and putting forth all his strength, which Ian allowed him full time to
exert against him, whilst in defiance of it all he stood firm and unshaken
as a rock.
" Noo ! — doon she goes again ! " said Ian, deliberately prostrating the
laird a second time, " an' gif tat be na eneugh, she'll put her doon ta
tird time, sae tat she'll no need uae niair puttens toon."
y:JG THE CELTIC MA(JAZINT?.
"No, no," said the laird panting, and, notwithstanding hU il featj
much delighted not only Avith the exercise he had had, but that he had at
last discovered so potent an antagonist. " K"o, no, friend ! — enough for
this Lout. I own that thou art the better man. This is the first time
that my back was ever laid on the grass. Come away with me, good
fellow, thou shalt go home Avith me."
lan's journey was not of so pressing a nature as to compel him to re-
fuse the laird's hospitable offer, and he spent 110 less than fourteen days
living on the fat of the land at Ury, and Mr Barclay afterwards sent a
man and horses with him to forward him a feAv stages on his Avay.
On his return to Strath-Conan, Ian was Avelcomed by many an old
friend ; and he speedily felt himself again rooted in his native soil. Ho
soon re-edified his bothy ; but he did so after that much improved and
much more comfortable style of architecture, which his large experience of
civilized life had IIOAV taught him to consider as essential. He again took
readily to his caurets, and to the simple occupations attendant on the care
and management of them, which he forthwith increased to a considerable
extent by increasing their numbers ; and every day he grew wealthier
and Avealthier by means of them. The taste which he had now had of
society, led him more frequently to visit the gayer and livelier scenes of
the more thickly inhabited straths ; and it Avas seldom that a market, a
marriage, or a merry-making of any kind occurred, where lan's sinewy
limb and Avell turned ankles were not seen executing the Highland lling
to a degree of perfection rarely to be matched. These innocent practices
he continued long after he Avas a husband and a father, — yea, until he
was far advanced in life.
If Ian had a spark of pride at all, it Avas in the circumstance that the
calves of his legs Avere so Avell rounded, that, however much his limbs
might be exercised, they always kept up his hose Avithout the aid of a
garter, an appendage to his dress Avliich he always scorned to wear. One
night a large party of friends were assembled in his house to witness the
baptism of a recently born grandson. After the ceremony and the feast
were both over, the young people got up to dance, and, old as he Avas, Ian.
Mor Aireach Avas among the foremost of them. To it ho Avent, and danced
the Highland lling Avith his usual spirit and alacrity, snapping his lingers
and shouting with the best of them. But alas ! Avhen the dance Avas over,
he suddenly discovered that his hose had fallen three inches from their
original position, betraying the sad fact that his limbs had lost somewhat
o!' their original muscle. This was to him a sad sinking in the barometer
of human life. Ho surveyed his limbs for some time in silence with a
melancholy expression ; and then, Avith something like a feeling of bitter-
ness, Avhich no one had ever seen take possession of him before, he ex-
claimed—
" Tamm her nanesell's teeths ! — She may Avcel gie ower ta fling, noo
tat her teeths wunna hand up her hose ! " — 21 if/hi and Ramlles.
[The work from which the above Story is taken is IIOAV very rare ; and
we intend, occasionally, to re-prndiin; some, of the excellently-told
tales preserved in it by the late Baronet, Sir Thomas Dick
Lauder,]
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 337
HISTOEY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE.
By THE EDITOR.
[CONTINUED. |
o
THE MACKENZIES OF GAIRLOCH.
III. HECTOR MACKENZIE, in whose favour there is a sasine dated 6th
May 1563,* in Avhich he is described as " Achyne Johannis McAchyue,"
and bearing that the lands had been in non-entry 1 2 years, and thus
carrying back the date of his succession to the year 1551, when they were
given in ward to John, fourth of the Stewart Earls of Athol. Hector
died — probably killed, like his brother — without issue, in September
1566, and was succeeded by his next lawful brother,
ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, who has a re tour, as heir to " Hector his bro-
ther-german," in the lands of Gairloch — namely, "Gaiioch, Kirktoun,
Syldage, Hanigildail, Malefage, Innerasfidill, Sandecorran, Cryf, Baddi-
chro, Bein-Sanderis, Meall, Allawdall, with the pasturage of Glaslettir and
Cornagullau, in the Earldom of Ross, of the old extent of £8;" but not to
any of the other lands which Hector Roy is said to have left to his des-
cendants. This retour is dated 2d December 1566.t Alexander did not
long possess the estates, for he died, to all appearance, and probably
killed — a few weeks after his succession, without making up any titles.
It is not, therefore, thought necessary to reckon him as one of the Barons
of Gairloch.
It is more than likely that the brothers Hector and Alexander met with
the same treatment as their father and uncles, John Glassich, John Tuach,
and John Beg, and by the same authors. This is in accordance with local
tradition, and an old MS. which says that Agnes Eraser fled with
John Roy " to Lovat and her Eraser relatives," adds regarding the fate of
his brothers — " In those days many acts of oppression were committed
that could not be brought to fair tryalus befor the Legislator." " She was
afterwards married to Chisholm of Comar, and heird his family, here she
keepd, in as conceald a manner as possible, and, as is reported, every
night under a Brewing Kettle, those who, through the barbarity of the
times, destroyed the father and uncles, being in search of the son, and in
possession of his all excepting his mother's dower. He was afterwards
conceald by the Lairds of Moydart and of Farr, till he became a hand-
some man and could putt on his weapon, when he hade the resolution to
waitte of Colin Camme Mackenzie, Laird of Kintail, a most worthy
gentleman who established him in all his lands, excepting those parts of
the family estate for which Hector and his successors hade an undoubted
right by writs."
He was succeeded by his brother,
IV. JOHN ROY MACKENZIE, Hector Roy's third son, who was still a
minor, though his father had been dead for 15 or 16 years, and the estate
* Gairloch Charter Chest.
t lug. Retour Reg., vol. i., fol. 22, and Origines Parochiales.
D2
338 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
was, in 15G7, given in ward by Quean Mary, who "granted in heritage to
John lianennau of Cardeyne, the ward of the lands and rents belonging
to the deceased Hector Makkenyeh of Garloch, with the relief of the same
when it should occur, and the marriage of John Eoy Makkenych, the
brother and apparent heir of Hector."* In 1569, John Eoy being then
of " lauchful age," is served and retoured heir to his brother-gcrman,
Hector, in his lands of Gairloch,t as specified in the service of 156G,
passing over Alexander, undoubtedly because he never made up titles
to the estate. The retour of 15G9 gives the date of Hector's death as 30th
September 15GG. In 1574 John Roy has a sasine which bears that the
lands were seven and a- half years in non-entry. This takes it back to the
date of Hector's death, three months before the gift of ward to John
Bannerman. In the same year he acquired half the lands of Ardnagraskfrom.
Lovat, partly in exchange for the rights he had inherited in Phoineas from
his mother, he being described by Lovat in the disposition, according to
an old inventory, as "the son, by her first husband, of his kinswoman
Agnes Fraser." From this it may be reasonably assumed that John
Glassich's widow had made over her rights to her son during her life, or
that she had by this time died.
We find from the old inventory already quoted that there was a Char-
ter of Alienation by Hugh Fraser of Guisachan, dated 29th May 1582,
and it appears from it that John Eoy acquired Davochcairn and Davoch-
pollo, in Strathpeffer, in 1574, from this Hugh Fraser, and that in the
first-named year he also obtained from him the lands of Kinkell-Clarsach
and Pitlundie, in terms of a Contract of Sale dated 26th of January 1581.
The charter is confirmed by James VI. in 1583. It appears from his
daughter's retour of service! that the baron's eldest son, John, died in 1601.
He had been infeft by his lather in Davochpollo and Pitlundie, and mar-
ried Isabel, daughter of Alexander Mackenzie of Fail-burn, by whom he
had a daughter, also named Isabel, who married Colin Mackenzie of
Strathgarve, brother to Kenneth, first Lord Mackenzie of Kintail, and
first of the Mackenzies of Kinnock and Pitlundie. Colin entered into a
lawsuit with Alexander of Gairloch, probably in connection -with this
marriage, "to cut him out of his Low Country estate. "§ In 1G57 she
mortgaged Davochpollo and Pitlundie to her cousin, Kenneth of Gair-
loch ; and her successor, John Mackenzie of Pitlundie, completed the sale
to him, which brought the property back to the Gairloch family. ||
* Origines Parochiales Scotiae, p. 406, and Reg. Sec. Sig., vol. xxxvi. fel. G.
t Ing. Retour Keg., vol. i., fol. 22, and Origines Parochiales.
£ Ing. Retours Reg., vol. viii. , fol. 2846.
§ Colin of Kinnock, wlio entered a lawsuit against Alexander Mackenzie of Gair-
locli, meaning to cut him out of his Low Country estates, and being powerfully supported
by Mackenzie of Fairbmn and Mr John Mackenzie of Tolly, minister of Dingwall, a plod-
ding clergyman, kept him sixteen sessions at Edinburgh ; the last year of which Gairloch
and his brother Kenneth seeing Lord Kintail insulted by the Earl of Glencairn, who
was supported by most of those on the street, put on their armour and came directly to
his assistance, and rescuing him from imminent danger brought him te their lodging.
No sooner was the tumult ovei than they embraced very cordially, and the whole
matter in debate was instantly taken away, and Gairloch got a present of 600 merks
to finish the Tower of Kinkell, of which his father (John Roy) only built three stories.
—Vttii'lock MS.
|| Papers in the Gairloch Charter Chest.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 339
In 1606 John Roy received a charter of resignation in favour of him-
self in life-rent, and of his son, Alexander in fee, erecting Gairloch into a
free barony; and in 1619 he obtained another charter,* under the Great
Seal, by which Kinkell is included in the Barony, and constituted its
chief messuage. John Eoy built the first three stories of the Tower of
Kinkell, " where his arms and those of his first wife are parted her pale
above the mantelpiece of the great hall."t
The only son of Roderick MacAllau of Gairloch, who survived the
massacre by his uncle, Roderick Macleod of the Lews, in. the absence of
young Macgillechallum Garbh of Raasay, under the care of the Laird of
Calder, possessed himself of Raasay and took up his quarters in Castle
Brochail, the ancient residence of the Chiefs of the Macleods ; and of
which the ruins are still to be seen on the east side of the island. Seeing
this, Donald Macneill, who previously sent young Macleod of Raasay to
be under the protection of Calder, broil./. L back the rightful heir, and
kept him, in private, until an opportunity occurred by which he could
obtain possession of the castle. This ho soon managed by coming to
terms with the commander of the stronghold, who preferred the native
heir to his relative of the Gairloch Macleods. It was arranged, that when
Macneill should arrive at the castle with his charge, access should be given
to him. The commander kept his word, and Macgillechallum Garbh was
soon after proclaimed Laird of Raasay.
In 1610 the severe skirmish at Lochan-Jleigh, in Glen Torridon, was
fought between the Mackenzies — led by Alexander, since his brother's
death in 1601, the apparent heir of Gairloch — and the Macleods under
command of John MacAllan Mhic Rory, only surviving male representa-
tive of Allan Macleod of Gairloch, accompanied by his uncle, John Tol-
mach Macleod. John MacAllan was taken prisoner ; many of his follow-
ers were killed, seventeen or eighteen taken prisoner, and the few who
escaped with John Tolmach were pursued out of the district. In the
following year (1611) Murdoch Mackenzie, a younger son of Gairloch,
accompanied by~Alexandcr Bayne, apparent heir of Tulloch, and several
men from Gairloch, sailed to the Isle of Skye in a vessel loaded with
wine and other commodities. It is asserted by some that Murdoch's in-
tention was to apprehend John Tolmach, while others maintain that his
object was to secure the daughter of Donald Dubh MacRory, who was a
cousin of John MacAllan, at the time a prisoner in Gairloch, and his heir
of lin;1, in marriage. The latter is the most probable, and is the unbroken
tradition in Gairloch. By such a union, failing issue by John, who was
well secured in captivity by John Roy, the ancient rights of the Macleods
would become vested in the Gairloch family, and a troublesome dispute
would be settled for ever, especially if John Tolmach was secured at the
same time. We may easily conceive how both objects would probably
become combined ; but whatever may have been the real object of the
trip to Skye, it in the end proved fatal. The ship found its way — inten-
tionally on the part of the crew, or forced by a severe storm — to a sheltered
bay off Kirkton of Raasay, where the young laird, a son of Macgillechallum
* These charters are in the Gairloch Charter Chest.
t Gairluch MS.
340 Till: CELTIC MAC1A/LNK.
Garbli, at tin- time resided. Here it was deemed advisable to cast anchor ;
and young liaasay, hearing that Murdoch Mackenzie was on board, con-
sulted a friend, Macgillechalluin Mor MacDhomhnuill Mhic Xeill, who per-
suaded him to visit the ship as a friend, and arrange to secure young
Mackenzie by stratagem, Avith the view to get him afterwards exchanged
for their relative, John MacAllan Mhic Eory, still a prisoner in Gairloch.
Acting on this advice, young Eaasay, Gillecallum Mor, and twelve of
their men, started for the ship, leaving word with his bastard brother to
get all' the men in Eaasay in readiness to go out to their assistance in
small boats as soon as the alarm was given. Mackenzie received his
visitors in the most hospitable and unsuspecting manner, supplying them
with as much wine and other viands as they could consume, and sat down
with them himsolf. Four of his men, however, felt a little suspicious, and
fearing the worst consequences, abstained from drinking. Alexander
Bayne of Tulloch and the rest of Murdoch's men partook of the good
things to excess, and ultimately became so drunk that they all retired to
sleep below deck. Mackenzie sat between liaasay and Macgillechallum
Mor, without any concern, when the former, seeing him alone, started up,
turned suddenly round upon him, and told him that he must become his
prisoner. Murdoch instantly got up in a violent passion, laid hold of
Eaasay by the middle and threw him down, exclaiming, " I would scorn
to be your prisoner." One of Kaasay's followers seeing his chief treated
thus, drew his dirk and stabbed Mackenzie through the body, who, find-
ing himself wounded, jumped back to draw his sword, and his foot coming
against some obstruction, he stumbled and fell overboard. Those on
shore having heard the row, came out with their small boats, and seeing
Mackenzie, who Avas a dexterous swimmer, manfully making for Sconsar
on the opposite shore of Skye, pelted him with stones, and drowned him.
The few of his men who kept themselves sober, seeing him thus perish,
resolved to sell their lives dearly, and fighting like heroes, they killed the
young Laird of Eaasay, Macgillechallum Mor, author of all the mischief,
and his two sons ; but young Bayne of Tulloch and the six inebriated
companions who followed him under deck hearing the uproar, attempted
to come up, and were all killed by the Macleods as soon as they presented
themselves through the hold. But not a soul of the Eaasay men ulti-
mately escaped alive from the swords of the four heroes who kept them-
selves free from the influence of the viands, and were ably supported by
the crew of the vessel. The small boats now began to congregate around
the ship, and the Eaasay men attempted to get on board ; but they were
thrown back and slain, and pitched into the sea without mercy. The
shot and ammunition having become exhausted, all the pots and pans,
and other articles of furniture which could be made of any service were
hurled at the Macleods, while our four abstainers plied their more warlike
weapons with deadly effect. Having procured a lull from the attempts of
the enemy, they began to pull in anchor, when a shot from one of the
boats at a distance killed one of the four heroes, Hector MacKenneth, " a
pretty young gentleman." The other three seeing him killed, and all of
them being more or less seriously wounded, they cut their anchor cable,
hoisted canvas, and sailed away before a fresh breeze, with their horrid
cargo of dead bodies lying about the deck. As soon as they got out of
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 341
danger, they determined to throw the bodies of Eaasay and his men over-
board, that they might receive the same treatment as their own master,
Avhose body they were unable to search for. It is reported that none of
the bodies were ever found, except that of Macgillechallurn M6r, which
came ashore, and was afterwards buried in Eaasay. They carried the
L bodies of Bayne of Tulloch and of his companions to Lochcarron, where
they were properly buried. The three survivors were John MacEachainn
Chaoil, John MacKenneth Mhic Eachainn, and Kenneth MacSheumais.
The first named lived for thirty years after, dying in 1641 ; the second
died in 1662 ; and the third in 1663 — all very old men. Amongst the
slain was a son of Mackenzie of Badachro, a cadet of the House of Gair-
loch, who is said to have signally distinguished himself.* This sanguine
skirmish seems to have been the last which took place between the
Mackenzies of Gairloch and the Macleods, and the former appear to have
held undisputed possession of the whole of Gairloch from that day to this.
Their conduct has, however, for years been such that they deemed it pru-
dent to obtain a remission from the Crown for their lawless conduct,
which was duly granted, in 1614, by James VI. t
John Roy purchased or rented the tithes of his lands, which appear
to have led him into no end of disputes. A certain Mr Alexander Mac-
kenzie was appointed minister at Gairloch — the first after the Reforma-
tion; and in 1583 he had to get a decree from the Lords of the Privy
Council and Session ordaining the teind revenue to be paid to him. At
the Reformation Sir John Broik appears to have been rector of the Parish ;
after which it was vacant until, in 1583, King James VI. presented this
Alexander Mackenzie to " the paisonage and vicarage of Garloch vacand
in our Souerane Lordis handis contenuallie sen the reformatioun of the
religiouii within this realme by the decease of Sir John Broik. "J In
1584 Mr Alexander Mackenzie let the teinds to John Roy for three lives
and nineteen years more, for an annual payment of £12 Scots. In 1588
the Crown granted a similar tack for a like payment. In 1612 Mr
Farquhar MacGillechriost raised an action against John Roy and his son
Alexander for payment of teiud. A certain Robert Boyd became cautioner
for the Teind of 1610 ; but the action went on for several years, and was
apparently won by Mr Earquhar Macgilleclniost, who, in 1616, let the
^ teind of Gairloch, for nineteen years, to Alexander Mackenzie, Eiar of
Gairloch, for £80 Scots yearly. Alexander then surrendered to Colin,
Lord Mackenzie of Kintail, the tithes of the lands of Letterewe, Inver-
ewe, Drumchorc, and others, Avho, on his part, as patron of the parish,
bound himself not to sanction the set of the tithes to any other than the
said Alexander and his heirs. §
John Roy Mackenzie married, first, Elizabeth, daughter of Angus
Macdonald of Glengarry, by his wife, Mary, daughter of Kenneth Mac-
* Allangrange, Anlintoul, and Letterfearn MSS., and Sir Robert Goidon's Earldom
of Sutherland. For traditional Gaelic account, taken down from the recitation of Ken-
neth Eraser in Gairloeh, see Celtic Magazine, vol. iii., pp. 192-4.
t For this document sre Foot-note, pp. 321 2—" History and Genealogies of the
Mackenzie?," to be issued in a handsome volume tlii.s month (July), by A. & W. Mac-
kenzie, publishers of this Magazine.
i Keg. Sec. Sig., vol. xlix., fol. G2.
§ Papers in the Gairloch Charter Chest.
342 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. •
kenzie (nu Cuirc), X. of Kintail, "by Ins wife, Elizabeth, daughter of John,
Earl of Athol. and by her had issue —
1. John, who married, as already seen, Isabel, daughter of Alexander
Mackenzie, II. of Fairburn, by whom he had an only daughter, also
named Isabel, who married Colin Mackenzie of Kinnock. John died be-
fore his father in 1G01.
2. Alexander, his successor.
3. Murdoch, killed unmarried, at Eaasay, in 1611.
4. Kenneth, I. of Davochcairn, who married, first, Margaret, daughter
of James Cuthbert of Alterlies and Drakies, Inverness, with issue — present
representation unknown ; and secondly, a daughter of Hector Mackenzie,
IV. of Fairburn, also with issue — present representation unknown. Ho
died at Davochcairn in 1643, and was buried at Beauly.
5. Duncan of Sand, who married a daughter of Hugh Fraser of Bella-
drum, by whom he had issue, two sons and three daughters. He died at
Sand of Gairloch from the bite of a cat at Inverasdle, in 1635, and is
buried at Gairloch. The sons were Alexander, who succeeded him at
Sand, and John, who married a daughter of Mr George Munro, minister
of Urquhart, and resided at Ardnagrask. Katharine, the eldest daughter,
married, first, a son of Allan MacEanald Macdonald, heir male of Moydart,
then residing at Baile Chnuic, or Hiltown of Beauly, and secondly,
"William Fiaser of Boblanie, with issue, seven daughters, all married ; one
to Eoss of Bindale ; another of Sand's daughters married Thomas Mac-
kenzie, brother of Alexander Mackenzie, V. of Achilty ; and the third
married Duncan Maclan vie Eachainn Chaoil.
Alexander, who succeeded his father at Sand (retour 1647), married a
daughter of Murdo Mackenzie of Kernsary — situated at the northern ex-
tremity of Loch Maree — fifth son of Colin Cam, XL of Kintail, by his
wife, Barbara, daughter of John Grant, XII. of Grant. Murdoch married
a daughter of Alexander Mackenzie, II. of Fairburn, by whom he had, in
addition to the daughter who became the wife of Alexander Mackenzie of
Sand, an only lawful son, John, killed in 1645 at the Battle of Auldearn,
in command of the Lews Mackenzie Eegiment, whereupon the lineal and
rolo representation of the Kernsary family reverted to the descendants of
Alexander Mackenzie of Sand, .through Mary, his wife. By her Sand
had two sons and two daughters. He was succeeded, in 1656, by the
eldest son, Hector, who also appears to have succeeded his uncle John in
Ardnagrask. He married Janet Fraser, with issue — John, who died at
Ardnagrask in 1759, and left a son, Alexander, who got a new tack of
Ardnagrask for forty years, commencing in May 1760 ;* and who married
Helen Mackenzie, daughter of Donald, great-grandson of Murdo Mac-
kenzie, V. of Hilton (by his wife, Jean Forbes of Eaddery), by whom he
had a large family of five sons and six daughters. The eldest son, John,
a merchant in, and Bailie of, Inverness, was born at Ardnagrask in 1762.
He married Prudence, daughter of Eichard Orel, Merkinch, Inverness, by
his wife, Elizabeth, daughter of John, third son of Alexander. VII. of
Davochmaluag,t by whom lie had five sons and two daughters. Three of
* Gairloch Papers.
t See DavocLmaluag genealogy in "History and Genealogies of the Mackenzies " by
tho present writer.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 343
the sons died without issue, one of whom was John, a merchant in
Madras. Alexander married Maria1 Lascelles of Blackwood, Dumfries,
with issue — John Fraser, who married Julia Linton, with issue ; Alex-
ander, who married Adelaide Brett, Madras, with issue ; and four daugh-
ters, Margaret, Jane, Frances, and Maria, two of whom married, with issue.
Bailie John's second surviving son, the Eev. William Mackenzie,
married Elizabeth Maclaren, by whom he had issue — John Ord, married,
without issue ; James, married, with issue ; Richard, married • Louisa
Lyall, with issue ; Henry, of the Oriental Bank Corporation ; Gordon, of
the Lidian Civil Service ; and Alfred, of Townsville, Queensland ; also,
Louisa, Isabella, Maria, and Williamina, all of whom married, the first
three with issue.
The Bailie's daughters were Elizabeth, who married Montgomery
Young, with issue ; and Jane, who married Provost Ferguson, of Inver-
ness, with issue — John Alexander, married, with issue ; Mary, married
"Walter Carruthers of the Inverness Courier, with issue ; and Agnes
Prudence, married the Eev. G. T. Carruthers, one of Her Majesty's
Chaplains in India.
G. William Mackenzie of Shieldag, who married a daughter of the
Eev. Mr Murdo Mackenzie, minister of Kintail, with issue, seven sons
and seven daughters, and a natural son, John M6r, who married a natural
daughter of Murdo Mackenzie of Eedcastle.
7. A daughter, married Fraser of Foyers.
8. Katrine, married Fraser of Culbokie.
9. Another Katrine, married Fraser of Stray.
10. Janet, married, first, George Cuthbert of Castlehill, Inverness
(marriage contract 29th June Kill) ; and secondly, Neil Munro of
Findon.*
11. A daughter married Alastair Mor, brother of Chisholm of Comav.
John Eoy married, secondly, Isabel, daughter of Murdoch Mackenzie,
I. of Fairburn, and by her had issue —
12. Captain Roderick of Pitglassie, who served in the army of the
Prince of Orange, and died unmarried in Holland, in 1624.
13. Hector of Mellan, who married the widow of the Eev. John Mac-
kenzie of Lochbroom ; and secondly, a daughter of Alexander Mackenzie,
IV. of Achilty, by whom he had issue, five sons.
1 4. John, a clergyman, who married a natural daughter of Alexander
Mackenzie, I. of Kilcoy, with issue, four sons and two daughters. He
died at Ehynduin in 1666.
15. Katrine Og, married Fraser of Belladrum.
16. Isabel, married, first, Alastair Og Macdonaldt of Shirness, or
Cuidreach, brother-gerrnan to Sir Donald Macdonald oi Sleat, and ancestor
of the Macdonalds of Cuidreach and Kingsburgb, in the Isle of Skye.
She married, secondly, Hugh Macdonald of Skirmish.
* Marriage contract iu Gairloch Charter Chest, dated 5th February 1627.
t The marriage contract is in the Gairloch Charter Chest, dated 23rd Jan. 1029.
This gentleman, in the month of November 1625, killed a man in Uist named Alexander
Mac Ian Mine Alastair, for which he received a remission from Chavlca I., dated at
Holyrood, the first of August 1027, and which Macdonald appears to have uojjo^ited
in the Gairloch Charter Chest on his marriage with Isahel of Gairlocli.
344 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
John Eoy had also a natural son, Kenneth Buy, by a woman of the
name of Fraser, who married a daughter of Alexander .Mackenzie, IV. of
Achilty ; and two natural daughters, one of whom married Donald Bain,
Sealbrth's Chamberlain in the Lews, killed in the battle of Auldearn in
1645 ; and the other, Margaret, married Alexander, "second lawful son"
of John Mackenzie, IV. of Hilton.
He died at Tarradale in 1028, in the 80th year of his age ; was buried
in the churchyard of Gairloch, and succeeded by his eldest surviving son,
V. ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, who was advanced in years at his father's
death. He appears to have been most active in the duties pertaining to
the head of his House during the life of his father, and led his followers
against the Macleods in their repeated incursions to re-possess themselves
of Gairloch. " He was a valiant worthy gentleman. It was he who
made an end of all the troubles his predecessors were in in the conquer-
ing of Gairloch from the Shiel Vic Gilie Challurn."* Very little is known
regarding him, his career being so much mixed up with that of his father.
Under the charter of 1619 he was infeft in the barony as Fiar, and he
immediately succeeded on his father'.^ decease. In 1627, while still Fiar
of Gairloch, he obtained from his son-in-law, John Mackenzie oi' Apple-
cross (afterwards of Lochslinn), who married his daughter Isobel, a dis-
clamation of part of the lands of Diobaig, previously in dispute between
the Lairds of Gairloch and Applecross.t In 1637 Alexander proceeded
to acquire part of Logic Wester from Duncan Bayne, but the matter was
not arranged until 1640, in the reign of his successor.
Alexander married, first, Margaret, daughter of Roderick Mor .'
kenzie, I. of Eedcastle, by his wife, Finguala, or Florence, daughter <•!'
Munro of Fowlis, with issue —
1 . Kenneth, his heir.
2. Afurdo, "predecessor to Sand and Mungastle,"J who married a
* Applecross MS.
t In the Gairloch Charter Chest there is a feu chatter of endowment by John
Mackenzie of Applecross, in implement of the contract of marriage with his betrothed
Bponse, I*ob*I, daughter of Alexander Mackenzie, younger of Gairloch dated 6th of June
1022. After John of Lochslinn's death, she married, secondly, Colin Mackenzie of
Tarvie ; and there is also a sasine in favour of Margaret, second lawful daughter of this
Colin of Tarvie, by Isobel of Gairloch, and spouse of Matthew Eobertson of Davoch-
carty, in implement of a marriage contract. A little piece of scandal seems, from an
extract of the Presbytery Records of Dingwall, of date 3d of March 1666, to have arisen
about this pair — Matthew Robertson and Margaret Mackenzie. " Rorie McKenzie of
Dochmaluak, compearing desyred ane answer to his former supplication requiring that
Matthew Robertson of Dochgarty should be ordained to make satisfaction for slandering
the said Rorie with alledged miscarriage with Matthew Robertson's wife. The brethren
considering that by the witness led in the said matter there was nothing but suspicion
and jealousies, and said Matthew Robertson being called and inquired concerning the
said particular, did openly profess that he was in no wayes jealous of the said Rorie
Mackenzie and his wife, and if any word did escape him upon which others might put
such a construction, he was heartily sorry for it, and was content to acknowledge so
much to Rorie Mackenzie of Dochmaluak, and crave pardon for the same, which the
Brethren taking into their consideration, and the Bishop referring it to them (as the
Moderator reperted), they have, according to the Bishop's appointment, ordered the
said Matthew Robertson to acknowledge so much before the Presbytery to the party,
and to crave his pardon in anything he has given him offence. The which being done
by the said Matthew Robertson, Rory Mackenzie of Dochmaluak did acquiesce in it
without any furuer prosecution of it."
J There is great confusion about the families of the various Sands which we have
not been able to clear ui>. The following is from public recerds : — "In 1718 on the fu»
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 345
daughter of John Mackenzie, III. of Fairburn, with issue — a daughter,
Margaret, Avho married Colin Mackenzie, I. of Sanachan, brother to John
Mackenzie, II. of Applecross.
3. Hector, " portioner of Mellan," who married a daughter of Donald •
Maclver, and " of whom a small tribe in Gairloch."
4. Alexander, a cornet in Sir George Munro's Regiment ; " an officer
under Cromwell, whom he afterwards left, and was wounded on the
King's side at the battle of Worcester, leaving a succession in Gairloch by
liis wife, Janet, daughter of Mackenzie of Ord." He lost an eye at Wor-
• cester, and was consequently ever after known as " Alastair Cam," or One-
eyed Alexander. That he was not killed at Worcester, as stated in one
of the Gairloch MSS., is conclusively proved by the marriage contract, in
the Ord charter chest, which shows that he married Janet, daughter of
John Mackenzie, I. of Ord, in 1652, a year after the battle of Worcester,
fought in 1651. The marriage contract is dated "Chanonrie 21 July
and 6th August 1652." His descendants are still well known in Gairloch
as " Sliochd Alastair Chaim," or the descendants of Alexander the One-
eyud, one of them being the late John Mackenzie, of the "Beauties of
Gaelic Poetry," who was fifth in legitimate male descent ; as also the
Author of this History, who is, both on the male and female side, sixth
in succession. Alexander Cam's immediate successors settled -in North
Erradale, Gairloch, the half of which they held down to the beginning of
the present century. He died in Gairloch, and was buried with his de-
scendants in the Eastern Chapel, in the churchyard there.
5. Isabel, married John Mackenzie of Applecross (afterwards of Loch-
slinn), brother-gerrnan to Colin, first Earl of Seaforth, poisoned at Tain.
By him she had issue, a daughter, who married Sir Norman Macleod,
father of John Macleod of Muiravenside and Bernera, advocate. Isobel
married, secondly, Colin Mackenzie of Tarvie, third son of Sir Eoderick
Mackenzie of Coigeach, Tutor of Kintail, with issue. She married, thirdly,
Murdoch Mackenzie, V. of Achilty, without issue.
6. Margaret, married Alexander Eoss of Cuilich, from whom came
the family of Achnacloich.
7. Another married Eobert Gray of Skibo, with issue.
Alexander of Gairloch married, secondly, Isabel, daughter of Alexander
Mackenzie, progenitor of the families of Coul and Applecross, with issue —
8. William of Multafy and I. of Belmaduthy.
9. Roderick, married Agnes, daughter of Alexander Mackenzie, I. of
Suddie, with issue.
feiture of the Fairburn estate, Alexander Mackenzie of Sand appeared and deponed
tbat Murdoch Mackenzie of Sand, his father, had a wadset of Mungastle and certain
other lands frora Fairburn. In May 1730 Alexander Mackenzie of Sand purchased
Mungastle for 3000 merks from Dundonell, who had meantime become proprietor of it.
In January 1744 Alexander Mackenzie of Sand, son of the preceding Alexander, was
infeffc in Mungastle in place of his father. In 1741 the above Alexander (the younger)
being then a minor, and John Mackenzie of Lochend being his curator, got a wadset of
Glenarigolach and Kidorch, and in 1745 Alexander being then of full age, apparently
purchased these lands irredeemably. In March 1765 Alexander Mackenzie of Sund,
with consent of Janet Mackenzie his wife, sold Mungastle, Glenarigolacb, &c. One
of the witnesses to this deed of disposition is Alexander Mackenzie, eldest sou to Alex-
ander Mackenzie, the granter cf the deed."
346 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
10. Angus* married the eldest daughter of Hector Mackenzie, IV. of
Fairburn, without issue.
11. Annabella, married Donald Mackenzie, III. of Logie, with issue.
12. Janet (? Isabella), married Alexander Mackenzie of Pitglassie, pro-
genitor of the Mackenzies of Ardross.
Alexander had also a natural daughter, who married George, fourth
son of John Mackenzie, I. of Ord.
He died, as appears from an entry in an old inventory of his succes-
sor's retour of service, on the 4th of January 1638,* in the Gist year of
his age, at Island Suthain, in Loch Maree, where traces of his house are
still to be seen. He was buried with his wife " in a chapel he caused
built near the Church of Gaiiioch," during his father's lifetime and was
succeeded by his eldest son.
(To be Continued.)
RONALD MACGREGOR.
o
Hast thou forsaken me, Ronald Macgregor ?
Hast thou forgotten thy Mary for aye?
If thou hast pity, my Ronald Macgregor,
Give back the heart thou hast taken away : —
Little I thought when we wandered together,
Blest with the sunshine of love's jo\ous ytars,
That thou would'st leave me in anguish to wither
'Neath the cold blight of love's sorrows and tt ars : —
Leave me not, Ronald Macgregor ! Macgregor !
My poor heart is breaking, oh ! liear its last prayer;
Come again, Rouald Macgregor ! Macgregor,
Leave not thy Mary to die in despair.
Lone is my shieling, my Ronald Macgregor,
Sadness is dwelling where joy had its home ;
Dark is the glen now, my Ronald Macgregor,
All that was lovely has weary become : —
Where are the vows that I fondly did cherish?
Still on each breeze is thy love-promise borne ;
Are the bright dreams that once filled me to perish,
Never to cheer me as sadly I mourn? —
Leave me not, Ronald Macgregor ! Macgregor I &c.
Deep runs the river, my Ronald Macgregor,
O ! there is pity for me in its song ;
Tho' thou art happy, my Ronald Macgregor,
Ever 'twill whisper to thee of my wrong : —
Ever 'twill tell thee my peace thou hast taken,
Soon it will give me the lore that I crave,
Death is the joy of thy Mary forsaken —
Ronald ! I'll love theo tho' cold in the grave : —
Fare thee well, Ronald Macgregor ! Macgregor ! &c.
SUNDERLAND. WM. ALLAN.
* This Angus " was a brave soldier, and commanded a considerable body of High-
landers under King Charles the Second at the Torwood. He, with Scrymgeour of
Dudhope and other loyalists, march td at a great rate to assist tha Macleans who were
cut to pieces by Cromwell's dragoons at Inverkeithing, but to their great grief were
recalled by the Earl of Argyll, general of the army. — Gairloch MS.
* In this service we find "Kirktoun with tlie manor and gardens of the same,"
and, after a long lixt of the townships, the fishings of half the water of Ewe, and the rivers
Keny and Bitdachro, wo have "the loch of Lochmarov, with the islands of the snme.
and the manor place and t/ardcit* in the Island of Ilinrory, the loch of Garloch, witli the
fishings of the same," from which it appears that the residence on Island llory Uef.r,
the walls of which and of the large garden are yet distinctly traceable, was at least
as early as that on Island Suthain in which Alexander died.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 347
OUE GAELIC BIBLE.
VII. AND LAST.
THROUGH the good offices of a friend, whose similar kindness on former
occasions has already been acknowledged in these papers, there lies now
before us a thin octavo volume of 102 pages, entitled " Letters and other
Documents, on the subject of a New Translation of the Sacred Scriptures
into Gaelic ; with notes : by the Rev. Dr Thomas Ross, minister of Loch-
broom. Edinburgh : printed by John Moir, Eoyal Bank Close, 1821,"
This volume contains (1) a short "Report of the Proceedings of the
General Assembly, extracted from the Inverness Journal of 2d June
1820," (2) nine hotly controversial letters thereanent, written chiefly by
Dr Ross of Lochbroom on the one hand, and Dr Irvine of Little Dunkeld
on the other, (3) certain relative minutes of the Presbytery of Lochcarron
and the Synod of Glenelg, and (4) private letters to Dr Ross from Dr
Irvine and Dr John Stuart of Luss, published apparently without their
consent.
The occasion of this formidable controversy was an overture trans-
mitted to the General Assembly by the Synod of Ross. The overture is
of some historic interest, and, in these pages, passing reference has already
been made to it, in connection with a philological question which pro-
mises to yield important scientific results : the influence, to wit, of Kirke's
Irish Bible on the living Gaelic of the day in the Scottish Highlands.
We therefore make no apology for quoting the overture at length. It is
as follows : — " The Synod of Ross having observed with much satisfaction
the anxious desire entertained by all descriptions of people within their
bounds for the knowledge of the Word of God in their native language,
and the hourly increasing capacity which they are acquiring for the peru-
sal of the Scriptures with understanding and delight ; considering also
the generous and benevolent exertions made by all descriptions of Chris-
tians throughout the British Empire for the extension of the Gospel; con-
sidering also that many of the people in their bounds are removed at a
great distance from places of public worship, and bereaved of every earthly
means of enjoying the light and knowledge of the Word of God in their
own language ; viewing also with great alarm the exertions made by the
enemies of religion for the extension of infidelity, error, blasphemy, and
irreligion, towards overturning the great foundation of the faith and hope
of Christians, cannot now but lament that any means by which a know-
ledge of the Word of God could be extensively and iisefully promulgated
have been opposed by any of the friends of Christianity or of social order
in this country ; considering also that from a variety of circumstances, as
extraordinary as they are unaccountable, various obstacles have been
thrown in the way, to retard the publication of a translation of the Scrip-
tures, by the Rev. Dr Thomas Ross, minister in Lochbroom. a man emi-
nently qualified for translating the Bible into that dialect of the Gaelic
language best understood in this district of the Church ; — feel themselves
called upon, by every legal and constitutional means in their power, to for-
ward and promote the publication of a work FO much wanted, so loudly
348 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
called for, and so anxiously expected by every considerate and impartial
friend of the Gospel. Having also good reason to believe that the wants
of the Christian public can be supplied by this translation, within a much
shorter time than by any other, the Synod therefore humbly overture the
Very Reverend the General Assembly, praying that they may be pleased
to express their approbation of Dr Ross' labours in this great undertaking,
and give permission to all Ministers, Teachers, and private Christians con-
nected with the Church of Scotland, to use this translation of the Bible,
in those districts of the country where it shall be best understood, or
otherwise preferred ; provided always that the author shall be considered
bound to submit his translation to the examination of persons properly
qualified to judge of its correctness; and that these persons do report to
the General Assembly, declaring that the work is executed in such a man-
ner as shall render it deserving of the countenance and patronage of this
Church."
Summarily stated, the object of this overture was to induce the As-
sembly, (1) in the interest of free- trade in Gaelic Bibles, to repeal an in-
terim Act obtained by the Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge,
prohibiting the use of any Gaelic version of the Bible other than the So-
ciety's in any Church, Chapel, or School within the Church of Scotland,
and (2) to procure the countenance and patronage of the Church, through
the General Assembly, for a new Gaelic Bible which Dr Ross of Loch-
broom was understood to have ready for the press.
In support of the overture, "a clergyman of Ross-shire" (p. 3), des-
cribed in the minutes of the Society as Mr Donald Mackenzie, stated
" that a great part of the people of Ross-shire could not understand Dr
Stuart's translation" — " that almost every district in the Highlands had
a separate dialect, and that were he, who had the Ross-shire dialect, to
preach in Perthshire or Argyleshire, he would be unintelligible." He
stated farther that Dr Ross had long been engaged on a translation of the
Scriptures, adapted to the dialect of Ross-shire, and, though this new
translation was still unpublished, " he read various recommendations of it
from synods, presbyteries, and individual clergymen."
Dr Irvine thought that " a more unnecessary and improper overture
was never laid on the table of the Assembly." Were this overture listened
to, the consequence would be that as in the county of Ross various dialects
prevailed, and as Dr Ross' translation could not be adapted to all of them,
yet another translation would be demanded, and " the same complaint
would never cease." He denied that the Highlanders of Perthshire could
not understand the Ross-shire dialect. Besides, if everyone who thought
fit were allowed to make translations of the Scriptures "there would be
great danger of misleading and bewildering the people." There were
many preachers in Ross-shire who "could neither write nor read Gaelic."
Dr Macfarlane of Drymen moved that the overture be dismissed.
The assertion that the Society's translation was unintelligible to a part of
the county of Ross he met, by pointing to the fact that in the Gaelic
chapels in their great cities, people from every quarter of the Highlands
worshipped together without complaint of their not understanding the ser-
vice. Hut even it' the people of Ross really had a difficulty in understand-
ing the Society's translation, was it possible to allow a new version for
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 349
every separate district 1 And would they allow the Bible to be translated
into every "jargon and provincial dialect" of the Lowlands?
Dr Cook seconded, observing that, as was well known to all acquainted
with ecclesiastical history, there never was a more successful mode of pro-
pagating heresy than by " venting translations of the Scriptures."
The overture was accordingly dismissed.
Into the newspaper controversy which ensued, and which is embalmed
in the book before us, we shall not enter. An exhibition of its plentiful
flowers of rhetoric and piquant personalities might amuse a leisure hour,
but would certainly not be for edification. That, however, to many in the
North the Society's Gaelic Bible was in part unintelligible, and in large
measure unpalatable, is a fact which cannot be denied. It must not, indeed,
be overlooked that the minutes quoted by Dr Ross in the book before us ap-
pear, as of set purpose, to carefully avoid the expression of an opinion on this
question. The truth is that the cautious terms in which these minutes
are expressed form a significant contrast to the strong and sweeping asser-
tions of Mr Donald Mackenzie in the Assembly. The Presbytery of Loch-
carron, while abundantly complimentary to Dr Ross and his contemplated
translation, urge no stronger objection to the Society's Bible than its "very
small type, equally unfit for being read by the aged, and used in families,
as it is for the use of the clergy in the pulpit." And the Synod of Glenelg,
while vaguely pointing to "some imperfections in point of translation,"
rest their opinion of its being " by no means adapted to general use," on
" the smalliiess of the type and the coarseness of the paper."
But we can, ourselves, recall many occasions on which truly pious
people could not conceal their dislike for it. The dislike of it expressed
to Dr Johnson, by the minister of Coll, already referred to, is also a case
in point. And the Editor of the Celtic Magazine has recently informed
us that his distinguished relative, John Mackenzie of Gairloch, even on
bis death-bed, could not repress a similar feeling. As the lamented au-
thor of the " Beauties of Gaelic Poetry " lay helpless on the weary bed
from which ere long he was carried to the grave, his devoted sister often
read to him from her Gaelic Bible, but ever and anon she came to phrases
and turns of expression which grated on his too sensitive ear, when he
would interrupt her with the request — •" not that one " — and pointing to
Kirke's Bible — "read from my own one." It was with no ordinary feel-
ings that during a recent visit to the North we gazed on this precious re-
lic of one whose memory is dear to every true-hearted Highlander — the
bright, red-edged, beautiful, little London Edition of Kirke's Bible, in
whose dainty pages the bruised spirit of the dying poet found full oft,
•what ott it sorely needed, the true heart's-ease and the sweet balm of Gilead.
It has the following inscription : — " John Mackenzie, Edinburgh, March,
1848" — in the handwriting of the famous compiler of the "Beauties," — the
year in which he died, and in Avhich the Bible has all the appearance of
having been newly bound. Long may the beautiful volume remain, as
it now is, the treasure prized above all others in our editor's sanctum !
But beyond recording such facts as may afterwards avail for its deli-
berate treatment, the inquiry as to the influence on our living Scotch
Gaelic of the Irish Gaelic of Kirke cannot here be farther discussed. "We
must proceed with the history of our Gaelic Bible, and, if possible, close
it within the limits of this paper.
350 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Dr Ross' new transl-.itum — which, it is but i'air to add, lie liiinsolf be-
lieved to be "not merely adapted for every district of Ross-shire, but also
intelligible wherever the Gaelic language is known " — being thus
shunted by the General Assembly, the Society for Propagating Christian
Knowledge pressed forward with uew vigour the publication of what was
to be their mar/num opus.
The first volume of this work — a handsome quarto edition of the 1807
version to the end of the Pentateuch, carefully revised by Dr Stuart of
Luss and Dr Stewart of Ding\vall, was printed, and presented to the same
Assembly which so unceremoniously snuffed out the aspirations of Dr
Ross. On the very same day on which the Overture of the Synod of Ross
was dismissed — 27th May 1820 — a Committee of the Assembly reported
that this first volume of the new quarto Bible had been stereotyped, that
by competent judges it was considered to be "nearly unrivalled in its
close adherence to the original, and in the felicity with which the spirit
of the original had been transferred into the native language of the High-
lands," This committee also congratulates the Church on the promotion
of Dr Alexander Stewart from Dingwall to the Canongate, " as a circum-
stance peculiarly favourable for expediting the completion of the work,"
and it notices with exultation " a grant of £1000 to Dr John Stuart by
the Lords of his Majesty's Treasury in acknowledgment of his valued ser-
vices." This chorus of triumphant congratulation was fitly closed with
three several votes of thanks, unanimously accorded by the Assembly,
and with all due ceremony conveyed by the Moderator from the chair,
(1) to Dr John Stuart " for his continued attention and accuracy in this
pious undertaking," (2) to Dr Alexander Stewart for " the valuable aid "
he had given in the work, and (3) to the Society and its Secretary, Dr
Campbell. Thus signally did Dr Stuart and the Society triumph over Dr
Ross and his friends, who all too rashly had ventured to assail them in the
Assembly, by that awful weapon of ecclesiastical warfare borrowed by the
Scotch Church from its French allies under the name of an Overture. Nor
did Dr lioss' heavy broadsides in the Inverness Journal in one whit abate
from the exultant vigour with which his enemies in the South and West
shouted their lo Triumplie over his discomfiture. We forbear to give il-
lustrations. We give rather an extract from the Society's Sermon for
1821, which, while it will gratify all who like ourselves sat under the
preacher's academic prelections at Aberdeen, will specially interest the
transatlantic readers of the Celtic Mcujazinf. The preacher was the Rev.
Daniel Dewar, LL.D., afterwards Principal of Marischal College in Aber-
deen, and his eloquent words are well worthy of being quoted and kept
in remembrance : —
" It is in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, which form the nur-
sery of emigration to a new world, and from which thousands have so long
removed annually to this Xew World, that those in the service of this
.society, whether missionaries or schoolmasters, are labouring to promote
Christian knowledge. The prospect of usefulness thus opened up is un-
bounded. Tim schools of your Society have trained up, and are still con-
tinuing to train up those that are to people other and distant lands, and
to bear along with them the principles in their hearts, and the Bibles in
their hands which you have conveyed to them, and by which they arc to
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 351
be the means of conveying the knowledge of salvation to millions yet un-
born. In one respect we cannot behold, without regret and sorrow, the
warm-hearted Highlanders leaving for ever the dwelling-places of their
fathers, and the rocks and streams and mountains which met their earliest
view, and taking the last look of the friends of their youth, and of the
scenes endeared to them by all they love, which they cannot forget, and
withdraw slowly and with faltering steps to the ship that waits to carry
them across that mighty deep over which they are never again to return ;
the wind passeth over them, and they are gone, and the place of their
habitation shall know them no more. But when I remember that the
greater part of those who are thus borne away have received Christian in-
struction and Christian feeling through the means of this venerable So-
ciety— that every one of them bears along with him, as his treasure, a copy
of that blessed book which has been translated and circulated at its ex-
pense, I begin to regard them as so many Christian Missionaries carrying
the light of the glorious gospel to the Western A\rorld, to diffuse it over
its remote and newly-peopled regions, and to confer on their future and
numerous inhabitants the privilege of hearing in their own tongue, the
wonderful Works of God. "
But the exultation of Dr Stuart's party in the Assembly on 27th May
1820 was sadly and solemnly changed on 27th May 1821. The promo-
tion of Dr Alexander Stewart from the hyperborean shadows of 15en-
Wyvis to the classic slopes of Arthur Seat had indeed fulfilled the predic-
tion of his friends in the visible acceleration of his joint work with the
learned minister of Luss. The second portion of that work was in type,
and had been distributed for revisal among the friends of the translators.
Everything looked as if prospering gales and a speedy entrance with Hy-
ing colours into the desired haven were to be the lot of the literary ven-
ture which Dr lioss had described as " that monopoly of translating the
Sacred Scriptures into Gaelic recently made by a certain description of
consecrated translators " (p. 7). But on the 24th May, Dr John Stuart
was suddenly cut down by the hand of death ; and three days later, Dr
Alexander Stewart entered after him the shadows of that mysterious
land, where now both they and their doughty antagonist are at peace,
and at last see eye to eye.
The death of two such men, happening as it did, fell on the Church
with a shock of surprise and grief. To the Society, coming as it did in
the crisis of their great work, it was a terrible disappointment and an ir-
retrievable loss. " They were assured that it would be extremely difficult
to find in one man that extensive acquaintance, both with Oriental and
Gaelic literature which were necessary " for taking up the broken threads
of the work. They felt that it would be highly inexpedient to commit
the revisal of the text of 1807 to " hands less judicious " than those by
whom the work had hitherto been conducted. The Society therefore re-
solved to complete the work by simply reprinting what remained undone
of it from the J 807 Edition, no change being allowed but such only as
was necessary to bring the spelling into harmony with that which in the
new work had been systematically observed. By the General Assembly
this arrangement was materially altered. The revised Pentateuch, pub-
lished in 1820, was put aside, and the Old Testament of 1807, with the
352 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
second Luss Edition of the ISTev.- Testament, was ordered to be reprinted
verbatim, under the supervision of the following committee: — Dr Thomas
Fleming, Dr Eobert Anderson, Mr Norman Macleod, Dr Grahaii. , !»r
Irvine, and Duncan Macneil, Esq. (Lord Colonsay ?). To these the So-
ciety added the name of Principal Dewar, and they continued as corrector
of the press Mr John Macdouald (afterwards the Kev. Dr Macdonald of
Comrie) : " the young gentleman who performed the same service under
the eye of the late Dr John Stuart, and performed it to his entire satis-
faction." The Society's Keport for 1823 states that "the Committee met
with unexpected difficulties respecting the mode in which the work should
be carried on, unavoidably delaying its commencement. But the printing
is now commenced, and is proceeding with all practicable speed under the
care of Mr John Macdonald." Whatever may have been the difficulties
encountered by the committee in regard to " the mode of carrying on the
work," it is no secret that Mr Macdonald, with the sanction of the Com-
mittee, exercised a wise discretion in dealing with the strict injunctions
of the Assembly. These were that he should produce an exact reprint,
in quarto size, of the version of 1807. But on that version material
changes were made — e.g., Neh. v. 18; Obad. 18; Heb. xii. 1. That
when such changes were made they were made but sparingly,
and that they were all changes for the better, are fads which
reflect much credit on the young scholar to whose watchful care, sound
judgment, and perfect knowledge of pure idiomatic Gaelic, we owe that
splendid work, the quarto Gaelic Bible of 1S2G. . Though now out of
print, it is still not exactly a rare book. Most of our readers must have
access to it. There is, therefore, no call to describe it at any length. A
marked feature of this edition is the use of special forms of the liquid 1.
n, r; the liquid 1 being crossed by a thin horizontal bar, and the n and
r surmounted with a dot. On the direct authority of Dr Macdonald we
arc able to say that the expense to the Society of providing these three
specially marked letters for the Avork amounted to not less than forty
pounds sterling
The next notable Edition of the Gaelic Bible was that published by
the Scottish Bible Society in 18GO, under the care of Drs Clerk and Mac-
lachlan. Of the hot dead-sea swell of incrimination and recrimination,
surging for years in sulphurous waves about this edition in a joint-com-
mittee of the National and Free Churches, until at last the committee,
simmering so long in its own fat, was happily stifled in the re-
sulting fumes, we have only too vivid, and, truth to speak, too unpleasant
a recollection. We touch it tenderly, but not '• as if we loved it." Three
uid copies of it were printed, but except among the Highlanders of
Canada and the outlying Hebrides, a copy of it is now but rarely met
with. The great grammatical improvement which it professes to have in-
troduced is the change of do into de in such sentences as this : " Smuain-
Ih a leithid sin de dhuine so, mar a tha sinne arm an focal tre lit-
richibh," &c. — 2 Cor. x. 11. It also makes much store of a distinction
insisted upon between a nominative plural, written as "nithean," and the
dative plural as "nithibh": e.g. — "Ni h-eadh ach anus na nlthibh sin
uile."- -liom. viii. 37, and "no nithean a tha lathair no nithean a tha ri
teaclul," 37. It also ventures upon some small attempts at emendation on
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE, 353
the sense, as set forth in former editions. Thus it reads " An toiseach
chruthaich Dia '' for " San toiseach chruthaich Dia." — Gen. i. 1 ; and
" Agus cha robh aon de phreasaibh na macharach fathasd anns an talamh,
ngus cha d' f has fathasd aon de lusaibh na machar "; for " Agus cha robh
uile phreasan na macharach fathast amis an talamh, agus cha d' fhas
fathast uile lusan na macharach." — Gen. ii. 5. The work abounds with
typographical errors, of which the awkward misprint of " mor-f hear " for
"mortair" in Job xxiv. 14, where the panel is raised to the bench and
the judge swept summarily into the dock, is destined to give this edition
a name among collectors not a whit less characteristic than the well-known
name of the " Breeches Bible !" It is right to add that these misprints
were carefully corrected in the Scottish Bible Society's Edition of 1868.
In an early paper of this series it was stated that the versions of 1860
and 1868 rest only on the authority of the editors. To this statement
grave exception has been taken in certain quarters, and some readers of
the Celtic Magazine have been at pains to bring under our notice the fact
that the work bears prominently on its title-page the Avords " air an cur a
mach le h-ughdarras ard-sheanaidh Eglais na h-Alba," i.e., "issued with
the authority of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland." "We
were all along quite aware that the book is so inscribed. Nay, the very
anomalous fact that it is so inscribed was made the ground of grave com-
plaint, and that publicly on the floor of the General Assembly, not less
than nineteen years ago, by the late learned and amiable Dr Colin Smith
of Inveraray. But none the less is the fact as we stated it. Neither from
the Established Church nor from the Free Church has this version of the
Gaelic Bible the least vestige of sanction.
To many readers it will be satisfactory to learn that the Scottish Bible
Society has at present in the press a reprint of the 1826 Bible, in which
it is proposed to change nothing but the exceedingly few misprints which
escaped the careful eye of Dr Macdonald.
And now, in closing this series of papers, we must apologise to the
reader for the great length to which they have extended. In treating the
subject from month to month it has grown upon our hands far beyond
the limits at first contemplated. In dealing with it we felt from the first
that it was a ticklish subject to discuss in a periodical addressing itself to
all classes of Highlanders. To the utmost of our ability we have studied,
while dealing honestly with facts, to offend the sensibilities of no class of
our countrymen. Our main object has been to strengthen the hands of
the Celtic Magazine, and help in our humble way to make it even more
worthy of public support. We hope that many able Highlanders all over
the world who can wield a pen will follow our example. At home and
in the colonies there are many cultured Highlanders, wielding in other
pages the pen of a ready writer, who could do more for our own Magazine
than hitherto they have done.
Ere saying adieu for the present, we would like to pay our debt of
warm affection to one, a wise and loving friend, whose name occurs more
than once in this paper. Dr John Macdonald of Comrie, last survivor of
the noble band of learned and pious men who gave us our Gaelic Bible,
now rests from his labours. Let the noble quarto of 1826 be his monu-
ment. It will outlive even the fair marble slab raised in his memory by
E2
354 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
weeping friends and flock. Thus fitly sings, and sweetly, one who knew
and loved him well : Mr Andrew Young, of Edinburgh, the author of the
beautiful and well-known hymn, "There is a happy land": —
Weep, Comrie, weep, and shed the bitter tear,
The gloom of sorrow hangs around thee now ;
Thy faithful Pastor is ne longer here,
And sad, indeed, and desolate art thou.
Long in thy hallowed Fane has he proclaimed
The holy truths, he ever loved to tell ;
A Workman needing not to be ashamed
Of the dear Master, whom he served so well.
A man of virtue, piety, and love —
His daily converse was of sacred things : —
His lofty theme, the higher life above,
And all the blessings that Salvation brings.
A faithful friend was he to all around,
To rich and poor, to young and old — the same ; —
IH him the sorrowful a solace found,
And words of wisdom to the erring came.
How oft was seen, upon that comely face,
The smile of true benignity, that shed
On all his life, the dignity of grace,
And hung, a halo, round his honoured head.
And for that land, where sorrow is unknown,
How oft has he divine direction given ;
And many ransomed, now around the throne,
Were led. by him, to find a home in Heaven.
His noble work is done, and he has gone
To join the sainted, on the sinless shore ;
To wear a crown of glory— all his own,
And live supremely blest, for evermore.
Ye rugged hills, ye ancient mountains high,
Ye heath-clad guardians of old Comrie's plains, —
In moaning mood reverberate the sigh,
And echo back Affection's mournful strains.
And thou, sweet stream, on whose pellucid breast —
When Nature's beauty all around is spread —
The setting sunbeam ever loves to rest,
Oh ! gently murmur of the much-loved Dead.
Around the pillow where the good man sleeps,
The purple heath will shed its sweetest bloom
And with the tears that fond Affection weeps
Will mingle dew-drops, on his lowly tomb.
Oh ! may the balm of heavenly comfort come
To wounded hearts, with soothing, healing power,
And shed a radiance o'er that saddened home,
Where now the clouds of sore bereavement lower.
Dear, loving Friend ! we sadly sigh Farewell
Our bitter loss is thy eternal gain ;
But in our Father's house we hope to dwell,
And meet with thee, in perfect bliss to reign.
EDINBURGH. DONALD MASSON.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 355
JAMIE GOW, THE PIPER
A FAIRY LEGEND.
THERE lived at Niskisher in Harris, many years ago, a brave and fearless
young man called Jamie Gow, a celebrated piper. Jamie's croft was a
tolerably good one, but he was so much taken up with his drones and
chanter that his croft was entirely neglected. The result was that it
scarcely yielded anything but weeds. But Jamie did not want for all
that, for there was no rustic ball, harvest-home, wedding or fair, from one
end of the Island to the other, considered complete unless Jamie and his
pipes were present. It was, in short, by these means that he earned his
bread.
Jamie Gow's house was about five mibs from Rodel, near which was
a famous knoll, called Tom-na-Sithichean, or the Fairy Knoll. That
thousands of fairies inhabited the " Tom " from time immemorial, was ad-
mitted on all hands to be a fact well known to the whole people of Har-
ris, many of whom by all accounts listened for hours at a time to the
sweet notes of song and the melodious music that proceeded from the
knoll of an evening, and was wafted on the wings of the wind over hill
and dale ; but no one ever, till Jamie's time, could find the door or en-
trance to this fairy bower. It was said, however, that if a piper played
a certain tune three times round the base of the knoll, going against the
sun, he would discover the door; but this, for obvious reasons, no previ-
ous hero of the chanter ever attempted.
Sitting among a number of drouthy neighbours on a certain day, after
a great gathering, at which there was plenty of that which generally makes
one both jolly and brave, a hot debate arose upon the nature of the inte-
rior of Tom-na-Sithichean. Jamie Gow declared that he would, for a gallon
of brandy, play round the knoll, walking against the course of the sun,
and that if he should find the door he would enter in and play the fairies
a tune better than anything they ever danced to. " Done, done," cried a
score of voices, and the bargain was at once made fast and sure. It need
scarcely be said that a Highlander who does not keep his word is not con-
sidered a man worthy of the race from which he sprang, and Jamie Gow
was a real Highlander. He would keep his word cost what it might.
About noon on the following day, Jamie, after quaffing a coggieful or
two of pure gin, to brace up his courage, proceeded to Tom-na-Sithichean.
He was accompanied by scores of people, some of whom cheered him
lustily for his great pluck, while not a few counselled him to desist, cha-
racterising his attempt as a most foolhardy one. But to these Jamie gave
a deaf ear. On reaching the " Tom," he emptied two other coggies ;
took up his position at the south-west side of the knoll, and began to blow
into his sheepskin. As soon as the first skirl of his pipes was heard, all
the people who had accompanied him thither fled to the top of an adjoin-
ing hill, to watch the result. With a slow but steady step, Jamie com-
menced his march round the "Tom." Twice he completed his journey,
without a mishap of any kind, and he had now almost finished the third
and last one, when within two or three paces of the goal he was seen to
356 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
stand for a moment, and then disappeared. He saw an opening at his
sidi' which admitted him into a long dark passage, so rugged and uneven
as to make it most inconvenient to a piper inarching, and playing a parti-
cular tune, such as Jamie was then doing. The air too in this chamber
was chilly and disagreeable ; drops of water were continually trickling
down its cold clamp roof and sides. Along the gloomy passage, Jamie
fearlessly pushed his way, and, strange to say, as he afterwards told, the
farther he advanced the lighter grew his step, and the livelier his tune.
But, by and bye, the long passage became gradually illumined with a faint
light by which he was enabled to see that the roof and sides of the ca-
vern was thickly covered with short and long sparry pendants, which
shone white and radiant, like Parian marble. Forward he still marched,
but at length he reached a door which opened of its own accord, and led
to a chamber of indescribable splendour. The floor looked as if of solid
silver, and the glittering walls as if of pure gold. The furniture seemed
to be of the most costly kind. Around a rich table sat hundreds of lovely
women and smiling gentlemen, all perfect in form, and clothed in spotless
green, brilliant and rich beyond description. They were apparently after
a sumptuous dinner, and were now quailing the purple juice of the grape
out of diamond-mounted cups of exquisite beauty.
At the sight of such splendour the piper, for a moment, stood amazed ;
the drones of his pipes fell doAvn powerlessly on his arm, for, lie stood
Avith gaping mouth, looking at the gay company, and ceased to blow into
the bag. Noticing this, one of the green gentlemen rose from his seat,
and, smiling coyishly, handed him a cup of wine, a drink which Jamie
too dearly loved to refuse. So, taking the proffered cup with thanks, ho
said, " I am a piper to my trade — I have travelled and played from one
end of the Island to the other, but such a pretty place as this, and such
lovely people, I never saw," and then quaffed off his cup at one draught.
The green attired gentleman now asked if he would favour them with
the tune called " The Fairy Dance," at which they knew he excelled all
other performers. Nothing pleased Jamie better than a little pulling ;
this, probably, the inhabitants of the "Tom" knew, and hence their
praise of Jamie's skill — a praise which had the desired effect. No sooner
was the question asked, than he cried cut lustily, " And by my faith I
will, and I will play it as true as any piper ever played a tune." In a
moment a vast assemblage was on the floor, swinging from side to side in
a long country dance. Nothing that Jamie ever saw before could half
compare to the graceful manner in which both ladies and gentlemen per-
formed their several evolutions, and footed the dance " on fantastic toe !"
This encouraged him to blow with might and main, and stamp lustily
with both his feet, as if he had been inspired with a similar feeling to the
performers, who whirled and flew through the mazy reel, as if they could
never tire.
Meantime, the people who accompanied Jamie to Tom-na-Sithichean
surrounded the knoll in search of Jamie and the door, but failed to find
either. They saw the spot where he had disappeared, and some of them
asserted that they actually saw the door where he went in. They con-
tinued thus for days and weeks — looking alternately for the fairy door
and Jamie, and listening in the hope of hearing the notes of his well-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 357
known chanter, till their eyes grew dim, and their ears dull, without
success.
Years passed away, but Jamie did not return. The news of his sud-
den and mysterious disappearance at the Tom had spread far and wide,
and his probable fate formed the chief subject of conversation at "lyke-
wakes " and similar gatherings for a long time after, throughout the whole
Western Isles. But, though he was sadly missed at balls and weddings,
and other social gatherings, no one missed or pined for poor Jamie like
his widowed mother — the sole occupant of his house, and iipon whom
now devolved all the duties of the house and farm. There was another
who missed him not a little too, Mairi Nighean Uilleam with Avhom he
was to have been married a few weeks after his mad journey to Tom-na-
Sithichean.
For several years Jamie Gow continued " The Fairy Dance," and the
dancers seemed as fresh as when it began. At long last the piper, wea-
ried almost out of breath, cried, " May God bless you, friends ! my breath
is almost gone." The great name produced a revolution ; in a moment
the lights were extinguished ; the beautifully clad assemblage, and the
gorgeous hall immediately disappeared, and Jamie found himself standing
on the top of Tomnahurich at Inverness. Until he enquired at a little
cottage in the vicinity, he was quite ignorant as to his whereabouts ; but
as soon as he found out where he was he directed his course to his native
Harris. The manner in which he was transported, quite unknown to
himself, from Eodel to Inverness, formed sufficient matter for his thoughts
until he arrived at home — which took six weeks from Inverness to
Niskisher.
Jamie was seven years with the fairies. "When he reached his hum-
ble cottage at Niskisher, he found it quite deserted, for his mother had
died in his absence, a year previously. No one in the place recognised
him — he was so changed. His beard reached down to his girdle — his
cheeks bulged out to a prodigious size by the continual blowing of his
bagpipes, while his mouth was twice its original proportions. But " Mairi
Nighean Uilleam " at once knew him by his voice, for there was no
change in it. A few weeks afterwards Jamie and Mairi became man and
Avife, and it need hardly be said that from that day to this, Jamie never
again visited Tom-na-Sithichean.
MAO IAIN.
DE SMITH'S GAELIC PROPHETS.— We are glad to learn that
Pr Masson is likely soon to be able to go to press with this Avork, as he
is getting up a goodly list of subscribers. Among recent names are —
The Marquis of Bute ; Lord Colin Campbell ; Mr Charles Fraser-Mackin-
tosh, M.P. ; Mr J. F. Campbell of Islay ; Mr Campbell of Inverawe ; Mr
D. Grant, Great St Helens, London ; Mr John Mackay, Swansea ; and
other well-known patrons of matters Celtic. It would be well that in-
tending subscribers should not delay sending in their names, and so enable
the Editor to proceed with his laudable work at once.
358 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
"STEWART'S 'SKETCHES OF THE HIGHLANDERS.'
[The following letter appeared in the Highlander of 20th June, from one
who has long ago secured for himself, by good deeds, the highest esteem.
of his countrymen — John Mackay, "Shrewsbury":] —
" SIR, — I noticed in lite Highlander, a few weeks ago, that Mr Mac-
kenzie, of the Celtic Magazine, intended to bring out a reprint of General
Stewart's Sketches 'of the Highlands and Highland Regiments. A most
desirable and laudable idea, and one in which he should command the
support of every true Highlander who sets a value upon the heroism of a
past generation. Without any doubt, Stewart's Sketches is one of the
best, if not the very best book, published upon the subject. It has
formed the groundwork for all subsequent publications upon the High-
lands, Highland Clans, and Highland Regiments, such as Brown's History
of the Highlands and Eullarton's Highlands and Highland Clans and
Regiments. It is largely quoted by English authors who write upon
military events. It ought to be in the hands of every Highland lad ; it
should be on the bookshelf of every Highland home, next to the Bible.
It is invaluable to every one who has a mind to know all about the heroic
past of the Highlands and Highlanders — the most interesting race of peo-
ple in Great Britain. The General, born amongst the hills of Perthshire,
was reared amidst the people he loved so well, respected so much, before
they became contaminated with Saxon ideas and manners, before chiefs
divorced themselves from their retainers, before sheep became the golden
image to be worshipped, before the lust for gold took the place of love for
the people, and respect and affection for the gallant defenders of the coun-
try in danger ; when Avilling hands and brave hearts, like himself, were
pouring out, year after year, from every hill and vale to sustain the hon-
our of the country, to preserve its freedom, to conquer or die for it in
every battlefield from Fontenoy to Waterloo. This was the heroic era of
the Highlands and Highlanders. Well did they deserve of their country
and chiefs. Ill, very ill, were they requited. General Stewart sets all
this forth in his sketches, in his own kindly language. Fortunate it was
for the Highland regiments to find in their midst such a historian of their
prowess and heroic conduct as the gallant General, whose pen was as ready
to do them justice and to record their valour as his sword was keen to
lead them into battle. Fortunate, too, it was for the Highlands and
Highlanders to find such a matchless defender of their character as Sir
Walter Scott. It was the incomparable heroism of the Highland soldier,
and the majestic scenery of his country, that roused and awakened the
genius of Scott. Sir Walter Scott and General Stewart have done to
Highlanders the justice denied them by others. The magic wand of the
one, and facile pen and intimate knowledge of the other, painted their
character and heroism in letters of gold, ineffaceable, imperishable.
'Wavcrley,' < The Lady of the Lake,' ' The Lord of the Isles,' arc \\vll
known productions of Sir Walter Scott. Stewart's Sketches of the High-
lands and Highland Regiments are worthy of ranking beside them : oven
more worthy of being read, for facts are stronger than fiction. Stewart's
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 359
Sketches ought to be found in every library, whether in the hall or in the
cottage. Every Highland lad should have the book in his hands as soon
as he is able to read. Every Highlander should now subscribe towards
its reprint. All associations of Highlanders should encourage the editor
of the Celtic Magazine by immediate subscription, to set about the work
as speedily as possible. I subscribe for five copies of it.
"JOHN MACK AY.
"Rogart House, Walter's Eoad, Swansea, 14th June 1879."
GENEALOGICAL NOTES AND QUERIES.
QUERIES.
(21) ANGUS, OR ENEAS, MACBEAN, YR. OP KINCHYLE, was married about 1718 to Isa-
bella Mackenzie, eldest daughter of Roderick Mackenzie of Redcastle. Can any of your
genea'o<,'ical readers furnish me with the posterity of this couple ? One daughter,
Griz-'l, «:is married <o Tbrmas Mackintosh, tacksman of Ruthven. in Stratherrick, and
had ist,r.fi — Donald, Margaret-, and Janet, born respectively 17SO, 1753, and 1756 (Regr.,
Dores). Donald, farmer at Ealnaird, by his marriage with Katharine Mackintosh, had
Alexander, John, and Isabella. The aforesaid Angus, or Eneas, was the son of William
Macbean of Kinchyle, who, in 1718, gave sasine to Aneas and Isabella of his own right
to Kinchyle. Was Gillion Macbean, who fell at Culloden, a son of Aneas and Isabella
Macbean, and when did the family become divested of Kinchyle ? FIT VIA vi.
(22) Of what family of Mackenzies was the Rev. John M aekenzie, minister of Kil-
learnan, circa 1688 ? KILCOY.
(23) THE MACKINTOSHES OF KYLLACHY.— Can any of your readers give the descent of
this family ? A. D. C.
(24) MACDONALD OF ABEEAEDER. — In the January, 1878, number of the Celtic
Magazine, p. 109, there occurs :--" Genealogies, songs," &c., "evoke tales and mem-
ories," &c., " of that fine race of Macdonalds of Brae Badenoch — the Gellovies, Tullich-
Croms, and Aberarders" — and this leads me to suppose that some one of your contribu-
tors may be able to trace the ancestry of John Macdonald of Aberarder (" Black John")
whose son, Macdonald of Moy, captain, — th Regiment, was father of Angus Mac-
donald of Tullich, captain, — th Regiment. Captain Macdonald, Killiechonan, and
Captain Macdonald, Inverlair, were also descended from "Black John" of Aberarder.
Any information about the family would oblige " COBBY AEDER."
[We regret being obliged to delay the publication of various answers
to Queries — especially the valued notes by Lex. on the Eosses of Inver-
charron — until our next issue.]
THE HISTORY AND GENEALOGIES OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE, which
has been for some time passing through these pages is now, much im-
proved and enlarged, in the hands of the binder, and will be ready for
delivery to subscribers about the middle of this month (July). It forms
a handsome volume of 468 pages, demy Svo., printed on toned paper,
Eoxburgh binding, gilt top. In these circumstances, on the completion
of the Genealogy of the Mackenzies of Gairloch, no further instalments
will appear in the Celtic Magazine ; but in our next volume, beginning
with the November number, a " HISTORY OF THE MACDONALDS," by the
same author, will be commenced and continued throughout the year.
360
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
TUIREADH NAN EILTHIREACH.
Slow, with feeling.
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Cion graidh ! Ochdin nam b'e sud an fhirinn
Cha bhiodh ar gruaidhean 'dol bhuait cho fiorfhliuch,
Cha bhiodh ar n osnaidhean 'brath ar mi-ghean,
'S cha b' uaigh gu leir leinn tir chein uan Inns'nach !
C' ait' 'eil na feidh ? chaidh gu leir cur as doibb,
Bocbd ruadh no earb cba taobh learg no leachduinn
O'n thain' an t-ainmhidh do 'n ainm am factor,
Mheath 'h-uile ni ach e-fein 'a am bragsaidh !
Nam biodh tu 'tighinn uair eile, 'Thearlaich,
'S na glinn 'san d' fhuair thu fir cbruaidh gun aireamh,
Cha n fbaiceadh tu ach na Dubh-Ghaill ghtanda,
'S " a' bhrigis lachdunn" air Bon glas-mhais orr'.
Air son gach comhnaigh 'sam faighte 'n aoidheachd,
Tha 'n laraeh dhuaichnidh— O ! naigh na feileachd !
Mar nead na cmeoraich 'am bun na geige,
'An deigh do 'n fhoc'lan a fh al a reubadh !
A thir ar gaoil ! leis gach caochladh cruaidh ud,
'Nan deigh gu leir, tha na ceudan buaidh ort ;
'S ged b' ann do dh-Eden a bhiodh ar gluasad,
Bhiodh tir ar graidh 'toirt nan deur bho 'r gruaidhean.
O beantfachd mil' uair le tir nam fllidh —
Nan Jaoch gun fhaillinu— nan oigh a's gile —
Ar n oig'— ar n-abbaist — ar daimh — ar n-uile !
" Cha till, clia till, O, cba till sinn tuille" !
NOTE. — The above song is the composition of Evan MacColI, and is taken from bis
;mach nam Beann." The wouls are effective and characteristic of the bard, whilst
the air is well known to all lovers of Highland minstrelsy.
W. M'K.
THE
CELTIC MAGAZINE.
No. XL VI. AUGUST, 1879. VOL. IV.
PRINCE CHARLES EDWAKD AFTER CULLODEN.
CHARLES fled from the fatal field of Culloden along the great Caledonian
Valley — the most direct route to the West Coast of Scotland ; whence he
hoped to make his escape to the Continent, and wait for better times.
An aged female, who died within recent years in Stratherne, recollected
the terrified appearance of Charles and his companions in flight, as like
so many apparitions, they appeared on the plain on which, at the time,
she gazed with the unsuspecting composure of childhood. The party
made direct for the old house of Gortuleg. Here Simon, Lord Lovat,
compromised so deeply in the plot to restore the Stewart dynasty, was
waiting in the greatest anxiety for tidings of the action that was fought
on that eventful day. The unexpected arrival of the Prince in the plight
he was now in, threw the crafty old politician into paroxyms of rage and
fear; and, on meeting Charles, he exclaimed in agony of mind, "Cut off
my head, your Royal Highness, cut off my head !" — truly anticipating the
fate that awaited him so soon thereafter on Tower Hill. Charles, not-
withstanding his own predicament, was self-possessed, behaved with
dignity, and used all his pleasant arts to calm down the affrighted old
man, assuring him that the reverse was temporary, and that he woxild
soon return to Scotland with a force that would carry him in triumph to
the British throne. Whether Simon believed this or not, he became
more composed for the nonce, kissed the Prince in parting, and showered
good wishes upon him, destined, alas ! never to be realised.
Charles and his companions continued their course westwards, and
arrived at Invergarry Castle early on the morning of the 17th April — the
day after the battle. Here they found scant accommodation, and had
to lie down in their clothes on the bare floor, on which they slept soundly,
without feeding or bedding, till it was far on in the day. This was the
first tasting Charles had of those almost unparalleled hardships of the
next five months ; which he survived almost by miracle. Whoever
reads the story of his escapes will not wonder, though the belief, never
to be realised, remained on his mind, that Providence reserved him for
playing an important part in the future of his life. On awaking from
their slumbers, tormented with the cravings of hunger, there was not a
morsel of food to be found. But fortunately one of the party spied a net
in the Garry, drew it to land, and found in it a beautiful salmon. This.
P 2
362 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
was a most acceptable circumstance. A fire was kindled upon the cold
hearth, and with the help of a broken iron pot they managed to cook
the fish, and dine thereupon -without either salt or bread. From Inver-
garry they continued their weary journey westwards to the coast of Aris-
aig. Here Charles expected a vessel to take him to France. But he was
disappointed ; and to be at as great a distance as possible from his eager
pursuers, on the 24th he embarked in a boat for the Long Island — the
concatination of islands consisting of Barra, the two Uists, Benbecula, and
other smaller islands of this western archipelago. After two months of
incredible hardships, Charles left the Long Island, and on the 29th of
June, in company with Flora Macdonald, landed on the coast of Water-
ntsh, in the Island of Skye. He was dressed in a coarse printed gown,
a light coloured quilted petticoat, and a mantle of dun camblet with a
hood. A native of Skye — the father of the late Donald Macdonald,
pipemaker, Edinburgh — then a boy, told Mr Eobert Chambers that he
distinctly remembered the landing of Charles and his companion, Flora.
He was herding cattle at the time; and on observing him, the better
dressed lady, Flora, enquired for a well which she said was near hand.
The herd-boy led them to it. The taller of the two ladies, Charles, put
her hand, he said, into her pocket, produced a leathern drinking cup, and
having satisfied her thirst, gave the boy a silver coin — the first, he said,
he ever possessed ; and which, he added, " I did not think the less of,
that it was given by my dear Prince ;" an instance of the enthusiasm for
Charles that remained in the hearts of these true men to their latest
breath. This man survived till the year 1827, and died at the great age
of 107. Charles wandered in Skye till the 5th of July, and then sailed
for the mainland, and landed in the neighbourhood of Lochnevis. Here
he was closely pursued ; and he shifted from place to place till the 30th of
July. At this juncture he was in greatest danger; and was nearer
capture than he was at any other period of his wanderings. So hemmed
in was he and his companions, and so near were his pursuers, that they
could be seen in the light of their watchfires. He and his guides escaped
on all fours, along the course of a ravine on a dark night. Macdonald of
Glenalladale, who was one of his guides, made the experiment alone to
begin with ; and having succeeded unperceived, returned to his friends,
whom he led along the same rugged path, and so they escaped their
watchful pursuers once more. But dangers were accumulating on all
sides ; and Glenalladale was utterly at a loss what to do, or whither to
go ; when, fortunately, he met a Glengarry man who recognised him — a
fugitive from the persecutions of Cumberland and his bands. To this
man he unbosomed himself — told him of his extremities and those of
young Clanranald, his companion, as he called Charles — and was informed
to his great relief, of the Glenmoriston men ; " who," the Glengarry man
said, " he was sure would befriend him and young Clanranald." After
the battle of Culloden about seventy Glenmoriston men were induced by
fair promises, to go to Inverness and deliver up their arms, in the belief that
they would, on these conditions, receive a Government " protection," and
be permitted to return peaceably to their own homes. Several of them
had taken no part in the rebellion. These complied in order to escape
the indiscriminate persecution waged even against such as were only sus-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 363
pected of complicity in the late " Rising." No distinction, however, was
made. They were all deprived of their arms, imprisoned, and soon after
shipped for the British plantations, whence, with two exceptions, none of
them returned. Several, however, who suspected the good faith of Go-
vernment, escaped the trap into which their less fortunate companions
had fallen ; and these banded themselves together in self-defence, and for
self-preservation by arms, in case this should be necessary. Accordingly
they took an oath " never to yield, and to fight to the death for each
other, and never give up their arms." They were, Patrick Grant — Patric
dubh Chrascie; John Macdonell, Alexander Macdonell, Alexander, Donald,
and Hugh Chisholm, brothers; and Gregor Macgregor. Subsequently,
Hugh Macmillan joined the party, and took the same oath. They were not
robbers as they have been represented by certain of the historians of the
Rebellion ; simply so many crofters and small farmers who were driven
by the necessities of those times to take measures for self-preservation.
To them Glenalladale introduced Charles as young Clanranald. But
those of them who " had been out," recognised him at once ; his wretched
habiliments notwithstanding, and welcomed him with the most profound
demonstrations of loyalty. At Charles' special desire they took the fol-
lowing oath, which shows how apprehensive of danger he was at this
crisis of his history. The oath was, " That all the curses in the Scriptures
should come upon them and their children should they not prove faithful
to him in the greatest dangers, or should they discover him to man, woman,
or child, till they were assured he was beyond reach of his enemies." So
well did these humble but faithful men. keep their word, that after parting
with Charles, they did not speak even to each other of his having been
with them, till a whole year after he had lauded on the shores of France.
At this period of his wanderings the Prince and his attendants
had their headquarters in the wilds of Coiregho, in the mountainous
range that separates Glenmoriston from KintaiL Far back in this unin
habited region there is a cave, large and spacious, with a fountain of pure
water gushing out at its furthest extremity. It was anciently known as
" Uaimh Ruairidh," Rory's cave, a celebrated hunter in his day, and who
lived in this cave. But ever since it afforded shelter to Prince Charles,
it has retained the name of " Uaimh Phrionns'," the Prince's Cave.
Unto this place of nature's own construction, his new friends brought his
Royal Highness, and after a fast of forty-eight hours, entertained him at
a feast of mutton, butter, cheese, and whisky. The day following one of
them shot a large deer, and others brought a live ox, which they had
taken from a party of soldiers, who were carrying provisions to the
garrison of Fort- Augustus. With no bread, and little salt, Charles, as he
said, "feasted like a Prince on beef and venison." On the 2d of August,
three days after his arrival at Coiregho, they removed from this cave to
one equally romantic in another secluded wild, called "An Coire
Sgreamhach." This cave is a double one. It- has a rocky recess like a
closet, opening from the side of it. In this rocky chamber they make a bed
for their Royal guest ; turf covered with heather, brush upwards. Charles
said he slept on this bed more luxuriantly than ever he did on bed of
down. In this primitive dwelling he remained four days. Having as-
certained from his watchful attendants that a detachment of militia was
364 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
\vithin four miles of him, he considered it prudent to remove to a greater
distance ; and on the evening of the 6th, ho and his men set out for the
north ; travelled all night, and at dawn of the 7th, arrived at Strathglass.
Here they met two of their number sent to watch the movements of the
militia, and who brought the welcome tidings that no danger was to be
apprehended ; and that apparently there was not even a suspicion that
the object of their search was in that neighbourhood. Reassured, the
party halted, repaired a neighbouring hut, made a bed for the weary
Prince on which he slept soundly, the men watching him by turns. On
the morrow Charles despatched two of them to Poolewe, to ascertain if a
French vessel had touched there — the whole party meantime moving
slowly in the same direction by the most unfrequented routes. On the
10th, at noon, they arrived at Glencannich; where they remained for the
rest of the day in a wood ; and at night retired to a neighbouring ham-
let. Early on the morning of the llth they resumed their journey, as-
cended the hill of Beinn-a-chaorainn, whence other two of them were
despatched in quest of provisions. Here they passed two days, anxiously
waiting the arrival of the messengers sent to Poolewe ; and whom, by-
and-bye, they joyfully espied approaching them. The information they
brought was that a French vessel had touched there ; and after having
landed two men, who had gone to Lochiel's country in quest of his Royal
Highness, weighed anchor and sailed away. This information at once
determined Charles to retrace his steps, and on the night of the 12th they
began their journey southwards, and on the morning of the 14th arrived
at Fasnacoill. Here they tarried till the 17th, to ascertain the state of
the country, and whether -the search for the Prince had in any measure
abated. At Fasnacoill they were supplied with provisions by a man of
the name of Chisholm, " who was out." Charles expressed a wish to see
this man. Chisholm recognised him at once ; and in honour of the inter-
view, produced a bottle of wine, which, he said, " a priest had given him."
Patrick Grant placed the bottle in the Prince's own hands, adding " I do
not remember that your Royal Highness has drunk my health since you
came among our hands," ("'On thainig sibh am measg 'ar lamhan.") The
Prince then put the bottle to his mouth and drank health to Patrick and
all his friends. Chisholm took the same oath as the Glenmoriston men.
Meantime their scouts arrived with the welcome intelligence that the
party of soldiers, whose proximity to the Coiregho cave had alarmed
them, had retired to Fort- Augustus. There was therefore a prospect of
his being able in safety to cross the great Caledonian Valley, and join
Lochiel, with whom he expected to find the despatches supposed to have
been conveyed by the men who landed at Poolewe. Accordingly they
departed from Fasnacoill on the morning of the 17th, by unfrequented
routes, and arrived at the Braes of Glenmoriston on the afternoon of the
same day. The day following the 18th, two of them were sent to Loch-
aber to arrange a meeting between the Prince and Cameron of dunes.
Another of the men was appointed to watch the movements of the Fort-
Augustus garrison — a detachment of which had been sent to Glengarry.
On the 19th he returned with the intelligence that they had retired, and
that the route to Lochiel's country was open and safe. Accordingly the
whole party — now ten in number — started for the south, and under cover
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 365
of a dense fog, crossed the valley of Glenmoriston and the minor valley
of Glenluinne, and arrived in the evening in the Braes of Glengarry.
The Garry was in full flood from bank to bank, in consequence of recent
heavy rainfalls. Nevertheless, these hardy and resolute men ventured
into the stream, breast high, keeping firm hold of their charge, who now
and again lost his footing, and but for their skilful management and
personal prowess, would have been carried down the stream. In this
uncomfortable plight they ascended the hill on the opposite side, where
they remained all night in concealment, and in their saturated raiment
under torrents of rain. On the 20th they cautiously advanced six miles ;
and about ten at night came to the appointed place of rendezvous — a hill
above Achnasaul, where they hoped to meet the men despatched to
Lochiel's country. Here the party passed the most uncomfortable day
they had since they took charge of the Prince. They had no shelter ;
the rain fell in torrents, and their clothes were never dry since they
crossed the Garry. Besides, their distress was aggravated by anxiety for
the men who, according to appointment, should have met them on arrival
at the place of rendezvous. Their suspense was at length relieved by the
arrival of their messengers, who reported that Clunes could not meet
them that day as the Prince had expected, but would do so on the morn-
ing of the following day in a wood about two miles distant. Patrick
Grant and Alexander Macdonell were sent to reconnoitre this wood ; and
finding it free of danger a pioneer party went towards the place appointed
by Clunes. They had just one peck ot meal for all of them, and not an
idea how to replenish their empty commissariat. But their good luck did
not even now fail them. Patrick Grant, who was the leading spirit and
a good marksman, shot a fat hart, and by the time the Prince arrived,
there was awaiting him one of the best meals he had since he joined the
party.
Charles now found it necessary to place himself under the care of other
friends. Therefore, with many expressions of gratitude for their faith-
fulness and loyal service, he parted with his Glenmoriston men, all except
Patrick Grant, whom he retained till his purse was replenished, to enable
him to show his sense of their services, by a substantial token of his
gratitude. Accordingly he gave twenty-four guineas to Grant — a large
sum in those days — to be distributed equally among his faithful friends.
These Glenmoriston men saved Charles from inevitable capture. At
the time he incidentally fell in with them, his case was all but a desperate
one. He had traversed those regions of the west of Scotland that offered
any prospect of safety from his pursuers, but was tracked and badgered
out of every one of them. And at the time Glenalladale introduced him
to these men, hardly a ray of hope for him seemed to remain. To their
fidelity, fortitude, and skill, together with their own attitude of necessary
defence, Charles owed his safety. Subsequently, in company with the
fugitive chiefs, Lochiel and Cluny, he passed most of his remaining time
in Scotland, in the rocky recess of Benalda, called "the Cage:" after
which, along with all his unfortunate officers whom he could collect, he
embarked for France a disappointed man, almost at the very place at
which, a little more than a year previously, he landed with such high
hopes of possessing the throne of his ancestors. Nor were these hopes so
366 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE,
desperate or groundless aa they have been represented. The Court of St
Germains wae well informed of the state of feeling, both in England and
Scotland; and it was owing to two men, more than to all others, Sir
Robert Walpole, King George's minister ; and President Forbes of Cul-
loden, that the enterprise, humanly speaking, did not succeed. Both in
England and in Sootland, at the period of Charles' landing, high hopes
were held out to him ; and but for the exertions of President Forbes,
there is but little doubt the rising in Scotland would have been a for-
midable one. This again would have reacted upon the state of feeling in
his favour in England. His advance south after the victory of Preston-
pans, was in response to the desire of his partisans there ; and but for
the influence of Walpole, and his own small Highland following, there is
every reason to believe that his chances were far from being chimerical
But the powerful influence of Forbes in Scotland ; of "Walpole in Eng-
land ; and the wretched tergiversation of the French Court, who played
him off for its own purposes, sealed the fate of Charles. It was a crisis
— a turning point in the history of our country ; and it was fortunate for
us that we had not another Stuart regency inflicted upon us. No
doubt they were the legitimate sovereigns by descent. But they were
faithless, ungrateful, and tyrannical, and we are far better off under the
sceptre that is now swayed over us.
The writer's father was acquainted with some of the older survivors
of the party who sheltered Prince Charles, and heard them often reciting
anecdotes of his stay with them.
When he joined them his dress was wretched in the extreme. An
old yellow wig and bonnet, and soiled cravat, His vest, which was of
tartan, was threadbare ; and his toes protruded through a pair of very
ordinary Highland brogues. His shirt was of the colour of saffron ; and
as he slept in his clothes he suffered the usual annoying consequences.
But he bore it all with the greatest patience. Morning and evening he
retired for devotional exercises. Charles, who insisted upon knowing
everything his men said, discovered they were addicted to swearing.
This he strictly forbade. Some of them smoked, one of them snuffed,
and a third chewed tobacco. The supplies of the smoker having failed,
Charles suggested that he who chewed should share his chews with the
smoker. During the absence of his men, he superintended all tho de-
partments of their simple cookery, and taught them many useful lessons
in the culinary art. These little traits of Charles' character greatly
endeared him to his followers. But with all their affection for him these
men were most resolute and determined in opposing him, when they con-
sidered it necessary for his safety. When Charles, as they thought, re-
solved prematurely to leave their retreat, and insisted on being obeyed,
they told him plainly, that such were their convictions of danger, that
they would sooner bind him than carry out his wishes. He had, of
course, to acquiesce, remarking, that he had the most absolute Piivy Coun-
cillors a Prince ever had. Notwithstanding, Charles appreciated the
services of his Glenmoriston friends, and assured them when onco settled
in St James's, he would not forget their services. One of them remarked
that his ancestor, Charles II., made similar promises, as a priest
told him, and forgot them. Charles assured thum on the word of a
Prince he would act very differently.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 367
The future of Charles Edward, on whom such devoted loyalty was
lavished, is melancholy. The habit of intemperance which, in course of
his wanderings, he had formed, he seems never to have got the better of.
The French Court, which had used him ungratefully, abandoned him
when it suited them, and forcibly banished him from Paris. His English
and Scotch friends found it absolutely necessary for personal safety to
abandon all correspondance with him ; as, against all their remonstrances,
his domestic establishment consisted of persons who were notoriously un-
faithful to his cause. Charles died at Eome within the memory of some
who have recently passed away, and in the year 1788, at the age of sixty-
eight. His remains were interred in the Cathedral Church of Frescati,
of which his brother, Cardinal York, was bishop. They were afterwards
removed to St Peters ; when a monument, by Canovo, was reared to his
memory, it is said, by the munificence of George IV. He left no legiti-
mate issue, and his widow, who afterwards married the poet Alfien, died
in 1824.
KENMOBE. ALLAN SINCLAIR.
THE MAEQUIS OF LORNE AND GLENCOE.
A GOOD story is told of the Marquis of Lome and two Glengarry High-
landers who called on him recently. Ever since the massacre at Glencoe,
in which the Campbells did the bloody work of the Crown, the clan
Campbell have been in bad odour with the clan Macdonald and other
sects ; indeed, it is a proverb that the Macdonalds and Campbells, " canna
eat oot o' the same kail-pot." The Glengarry men, Macdonalds to the
back-bone, were in Ottawa on business, and after much debate resolved
to pay their respects to the Marquis of Lome as the Governor-General,
not as the son of the Cailean Mor. On their way to the Hall they talked
the matter over again, and one of them suggested that perhaps the Mar-
quis, being a Campbell, would refuse to receive a Macdonald, in which
case their position would be humiliating. At the gate they met the Mar-
quis with Major de Winton, and taking them for servants the Highland-
man asked if the Marquis would care to meet " twa Macdonalds" to call
on the Marquis. His Excellency replied that the Marquis bore no malice
to the Macdonalds and that Sir John Macdonald being his first Minister
it was clear the Macdonalds had forgiven the Campbells. " Forgiven the
Campbells !" cried one of the visitors, " forgotten Glencoe ! Sir John is
paid for that, mon ; he has eight thoosan' dollars a-year for it ; but the
diel take me 'gin we forgie or forget !" and with this the choleric Gaels
turned their faces toward Ottawa. The Marquis, however, disclosed him-
self, and after a hearty hand-shaking, the feud was temporarily healed.
The visitors were turned over to the Argyleshire piper, who is a promi-
nent member of the household, and by him treated so handsomely that on
their departure they frankly acquitted the Marquis of all responsibility
for the massacre. — American Scotsman.
3G8 THE CELTIC
THE CLANDOtfALD OF KEPPOCH.
BY DONALD C. MACPHERSON.
CJiief— MAC-MHIC-EAONAILL.
Seat — KEPPOCH, BRAELOCHABER.
I. Tlie founder of the family of Keppoch — Clanndonaill a' Bhraighe,
was ALASTAIR CARRACH, third son of John, 1st Lord of the Isles, by his
second wife, the Lady Margaret, daughter of Eobert, High Steward of
Scotland, who, in the year 1370, ascended the throne by the title of
Eobert II. On the 5th of September 1394, Thomas Dunbar, Earl of
Murray, and Alexander de Insulis, Dominus de Lochaber, bind them-
selves to support each other. In 1398, he seizes the Church lands of
Kinmylies, and takes upon himself the partition of them. In the com-
plaint which William, Bishop of Moray, lodged against him, he is styled
" Magnificus vir et potens, Alexander de Insulis, Dominus de Louchabre."
In 1402, he robbed the Canonry of Elgin and burned the town, for which
he afterwards made amends. In 1431, he was forfeited for joining Donald
Balloch. That he was well-known in Lochaber seems clear from the
author of the " Comhachag " —
" Chunnaic mi Alastair Carrach,
An duin' a b' allail a bha 'n Albainn ;
'S minig a bha mi ga 'eisdeachd
'S e aig reiteach nan tom-sealga."
" Alexander Carrach, the fyfte house of Clan Donald — neirest this
descendit frae the house of Clan-Donald is Alexander Carrach, that is,
Shawit Alexander sua that be the countrie's custome, because Highland-
men callit the fairest haired, and sua furthe, for this Alexander was the
fairest hared man as they say of aney that ever was ; and this said Alex-
ander was brother to this Donald of the Isles foresaid, and to John Moir,
fra quhome James Kyntyre descendit, and brother of the father syde to
Eaynald of quhome came the Clan Eanald.
" And this Carrach hes maney come of him, and good succession in
Lochaber called ClanEonald McDonald Glasse vie Alexander, quilk bruikes
a pairt of Lochaber sinsyne."
Alastair Carrach was succeeded by his son —
IL AONGHUS NA FEAIRTE. This chief is styled " Angus de Insulis,"
in a charter of confirmation granted to " Alano Donaldi capitanei de Clan-
Cameron et heredibus inter ipsum Alanum et Mariotam Angusii de Insu-
lis." The author of the " Comhachag " says that Angus was not inferior
to Alastair his father, that his seat was at Eerset, and that he had a mill
erected on an adjoining stream — Allt-Laire — as if to indicate that he had
turned his attention to improvements —
" Chunnaic mi Aonghus na 'dheaghaidh,
'S cha b'e sin roghainn 'bu taire ;
'S ann 's an Fheairt a bha 'thuinidh,
'S rinn e muilionn air Allt-Laire."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 369
He had two sons and a daughter —
1. Donald, who succeeded him.
2. Alexander, father of Donall Glas, V.
3. Mariot, married to Allan MacDhonaill Duibh, who figured at In-
verlochy, 1431. Their son, Ewen Mac Ailein Mhic Dhonaill Duibh, was
captain of ClanChameron, in 1495.
III. DONALL MAC AONGHAIS was one of the chiefs who made their
submission to James IV. at Castle Mingary, Ardnamurchan, on the 18th
of May 1495. In 1496 or 1497, he was killed in a battle about the head
of Glenurchy. The Maclarens of Balquhidder had made a foray into
Braelochaber : but the Braerians turning out in force to revenge the in-
jury, they — the Maclarens — sent to their kinsman and ally, Dugald
Stewart, first of Appin, to come to their assistance, which he hastened to
do. The two chiefs, Donald and Dugald Stewart, fell by each other's
swords. Donald was succeeded by his son —
IV. IAIN ALAINN. This chief was deposed by the Clan. Donall Euadh
Beag Mac-Gille-Mhanntaich, a Braerian, frequented the hills of Badenoch,
and in various ways annoyed the Catanaich. Mackintosh, as Steward of
Lochaber, ordered Iain Alainn to deliver him up, which he did. The
Catanaich, accordingly, had Donall Euadh Beag hanged from a tree near
Clach-na-diolta, Torgulben, a townland at the end of Loch Laggan, in the
march between Lochaber and Badenoch.
A difficulty now arose as to a successor. Donall Glas Mac Alastair
Mhic Aonghuis, the deposed chief's cousin-german, was the heir-male pre-
sumptive, and was supported in his claim by Sliochd Alastair Charraich.
But the kinsmen of Donall Euadh Beag — a numerous tribe who claimed
their descent from Donnail who occupied Ferset before Alastair Carrach,
and whose descendants, Clann-Mhic-Gille-Mhanntaich, are still in the
Braes, sent to Uist for Goiridh, a descendant of Godfrey, 1st Lord of Uist,
second son of Iain nan Eilein, by his first wife, Amie Nic Euairidh.
Donald Glas however was chosen. Goiridh settled at Tir-na-dris. His
descendants, not yet extinct, are called " Sliochd Ghoiridh." Iain Alainn,
the deposed chief, removed to " An Urchair," an out-of-the-way place,
which his descendants, " Sliochd Dhonaill," so called from Donall his fa-
ther, continued to occupy till the end of last century, when they settled
in various parts of the Braes. Of this tribe, styled also " Sliochd a' bhra-
thar 'bu shine," was the celebrated Iain Lorn, whose father was Donull
Mac Iain Mhic Dhonaill Mhic Iain Alainn.
V. DONALL GLAS was well advanced in years before he succeeded.
He married a daughter of Lochiel, and resided at Coille-Diamhainn, on
Torran-nan-Ceap, within a mile of the present Keppoch House. He was
succeeded by his son —
VI. EAONULL MOR, who married a daughter of Mackintosh. Miss
Mackintosh brought with her one of her kin. He was the progenitor of
Toisich a' Bhraigho, who are of the family of Kyllachie. Of this chief
the authoi? of the " Comhachag " says —
" Eaonall Mac Dhonaill GhlaiSj
Fear a f huair foghlum gu deas ;
Deagh Mhac-Dhonaill a' chuil chais,
Cha bheo fear a dh'eirich leis."
370 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Eaonull Mor had —
1. Alastair Bhoth-FJdoinn.
2. Raonull.
3. Iain Dubh (Gille-gim-iarraidh), progenitor of Tigh-Bhoth-Fhionn-
tain.
For assisting Iain Muideartach in 1544, at Blar-Leine, and for sup-
porting the Earl of Lennox, he was, with Lochiel, beheaded at Elgin in
the year 1547. It was about this time " Slol Dughaill" settled in the
Braes of Lochaber.
VII. ALASTA'IB BHOTH-FHLOINN died without issue. It is doubtful
whether he survived his father. In 1552, Alexander McRanald of Ca-
poch witnesses an agreement between Huntly and Donald McSoirley of
Glennevis ; but the presumption is that this Alexander was Alastair nan
cleas, his nephew. Tradition says, that while hunting in the woods of
Lag-Learohan, Achadh-a'-mhadaidh, he was accidentally wounded between
the toes by an arrow ; that the wound festered ; and that he was sent to
a medical man at Kingussie, where he was poisoned. This would be be-
fore his father's death, as he was unable to lead the Braerians against the
Camerons at the feud of Boloyne. His father was confined to bed at the
time, and Iain Dubh had to take his place. This is partly borne out by
the author of the " Comhachag," with whom he seems to have been a great
favourite. —
" 'An Cinn-a'-ghiubhsaich na 'laidhe,
Tha namhaid na greighe deirge ;
Lamh dheas a mharbhadh a' bhradain,
Bu inhath e 'n sabaid na feirgc."
The following stanzas, from, an old song, commemorate the feud of
Boloyne : —
" Ho o ho, na ha o he,
An d'f hidir, an d'f hairich, ro 'n cuala sibh ;
Ho o ho, na ha o he,
Mu'n luid nach toir cuideachda gluasad air ?
" Bha gnothach beag eile mu dheighinn Bholoinne,
'S gu'n innis mi soilleir 's an uair so e :
Bha creach Mhic-an-T6isich aig muinntir Shrath-Lochaidh,
'S na gaisgich Clanndonaill thug bhuapa i.
" 'S math is aithne dhomh 'n t-aite, 's na choinuich na h-armainn,
Fir ura a' Bhraghad 's an uair sin iad ;
Bha iubhair Loch-Treig aig na fiurain nach goilleadh,
'S bu shunntach na'n deigh fir Ghlinn-Iiuaidh leatha.
" Tha comhdach air fhathast, far am beil iad na'n laidhe,
Gu'n d'f huirich Clach-Ailein gun ghluasad as ;
Gu'n robh iad na'n sleibhtrich aig ianlaith an t-sleibhe,
'S na chaidh dhachaidh le sgdul diubh bu shuarach e.
" Ceann-feadhna air maithibh, Iain Mor Shliochd-an-tighe,
'S ioma ceann bharr na h-amhaich a dh'f huadaich e ;
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 371
Ma's fhior mo luchd-sgeoil-sa, chuir e tliairis air L6chaidh,
Am beagan 'bha beo dhiubh, 's an ruaig orra !"
VIII. RAONALL, second son of Eaonall Mac Dhonaill Ghlais, mar-
ried a daughter of Duncan Stewart, who would have been 4th of Appin,
but by a stroke of " Tuagh bhearnach Mliic-Artair," a Eraerian, he pre-
deceased his father. This chief built a house on " Tom-mor," n^ar the site
of the present Keppoch House. In 1564, Rannald McEannald McConil-
glas assisted Glenurchy against the Clangregor, when that chief invaded
Rannoch. In the same year, an the 26th November, in the Records of
the Privy Council we find, " Obligation by Rannald McRannald Mc-
Conillglasche of Keppach to hold good rule, etc. Colin Campbell of
Glenurchy, cautioner." In 1569, in the same records, we find — " I, Lach-
lane McYntosche of Dunnauchtane, be the tennour heirof bindis and ob-
leisses me and my airis, that I sail mak securitie to Rannald McRannald
of Keppach of sic landis and rowmes as he has of me.'' This was done
before the Regent at Inverness. On the 12th of June 1572, at the Isle
of Moy, Ronaldus filius Ronaldi Makdonald Glaish a Gargochia gives his
bond of service to Mackintosh. Among the witnesses to this document
is Niall Mac Dhonaill Mhic ISTeill, Ranald's Gille. In 1577-8, he is one
of the chiefs charged to defend Donald MacAngus of Glengarry against
Argyle. This chief repaired Tigh-nan-fleadh in the Eidirloch at the north
end of Loch-Tre"ig — a tigh-chrann or " crannog " which has escaped the
notice of our antiquaries. He was thus contemporary with the author of
the " Comhachag." Along with Miss Stewart came the first of the Dubh-
shuilich, murdered by Turner, p. 1 43, into Duileach, a sept of the Stew-
arts, so named from their dark, heavy eyebrows. They were ever after
the " Fir-bhrataich," as were the Campbells the Leiue-chrios. Their de-
scendants are still in Lochaber. Ronald had —
1. Alastair-nan-cleas.
2. Raonall Innse.
IX. ALASTAIR-NAN-CLEAS is said to have studied abroad, where he
acquired a knowledge of the " Black Art " — hence his name. In the
public records he is best known as " Alexander McRanald off Garaw-
gache," from the name of a place — a' Gharbh-dhabhach — on the confines
of Glennevis. He married a daughter of Macdougall of Dunolly, by whom
he had —
1. Raonall Og.
2. Donall Glas.
3. Alastair Buidhe.
4. Donull Gorm lonar-Ruaidh, of whom "Tigh Mhurlagain."
5. Donald of Insh ?
6. A daughter, married to Robertson of Struan.
7. A daughter, married to John Stewart, 1st of Ardsheal.
In 1588, on the 25th of February, Alexander Makranald a Garrochia
gives his bond of service to Mackintosh. In 159 J, instigated by Huntly
he made a foray into Strathspey, seized the Castle of Inverness, which he
was obliged to evacuate in a short time. On hearing of the approach of
Mackintosh, he and his followers made for " Canonach " (Chanonrie of
Fortrose) in two open boats. Ranald of Insh was taken and sent to the
372 THE CELTIC MAGAZIKE.
Castle of Inverness, but managed his escape. Dughall na Sgairde was
immediately hanged from one of the oars, and on the following day
Goiridh Dubh and his son were hanged ; Mackintosh entered Lochabcr
and carried off the creach of the Braes. In 1593, with Lochiel, Alexan-
der backs an assurance given by Huntly to Kilravock. In the same year
Eaonull Innse at the affair of "Petty," deserts William Mackintosh.
Alexander was at the battle of Allt-Chuailleachain, 1594. In 1595 he
gave his bond of service to Argyle, delivering one of his sons as a hostage.
Three years after he assists the Dunbars. He is mentioned in the act
ordaining a levy of Highlanders to assist the Queen of England in her
wars in Ireland, 1602. In the same year his name occurs in the Act of
Privy Council anent Wapponshawings in the Highlands. With Allan
Cameron of Lochiel he assisted Argyle in supressing an insurrection of the
Clangregor. At Tirndris, ten miles east of Fort- William, may be seen
below the coach road to Kingussie, a small enclosure planted with a tuft
of Scotch firs. It is called Cladh Chlanna-Ghriogair. Several of that
brave clan took refuge at a place hard by, called Eas Chlanna-Ghriogair.
They were taken, probably about this time (1610), and despatched by a
party of the Braerians. The following verse records the sad occurrence : —
" Nach cuala sibh mar thachair e,
Do Ghriogair Odhar, ard ;
Gu'n d' rug Mac-a'-Ghlasraich air
Aig bial na glaic ud thall ;
Bha fear de Chlanna-Chamrain ann,
'S a dhealg na 'bhroit gu teann ;
'S fear mor de'n chinneadh dhroch-bheairteach,
'S b'e 'm brosgal dha dol ann."
In 1615 he, with Eaonall Og his son, and the eldest son of Mac-
Mhic-Ailein, assisted Sir James Macdonald in his escape from Edin-
burgh Castle, accompaning him through the Isles into Ireland. When
Sir James went to Spain, Alastair-nan-cleas and his son returned to Loch-
aber. In 1616, commission was given to Lord Gordon for the seizure of
McEanald and his son. MacVuirich gives this chief's pedigree as follows:
— "Aaois antighearna 1616 an treas la do samhradh .... Alas
duir Mac Eaghnaill Mhic Eaghnaill Mhic Dhonaill Ghlais Mhic Aonghuis
Mhic Alasduir Charraich Mhic Eoin Mhic Aonghuis Oig, i.e., tighearna
Lochabar." In 1617-18, Alexander and his son, Donald [Eonald], made
their escape to Spain. In 1620, Alexander is recalled from Spain, and
receives a pension of 200 merks sterling.
Eaonall Innse was cruelly murdered by his nephew, Eaonull Og, at
Glac-an-Domhnaich, Achaderry. When taken, he was accompanied by
Iain Odhar, a hero of the Campbell tribe, who refused to interfere. He
was of the Glenurchy family, and though a tenant under Keppoch, he
paid his yearly Cctlp to Glenurchy. With him ceased this custom among
the Campbells of the Braes.
" Eug lad ort aig ceann Loch-earba,
B'e Iain Odhar do thargaid,
'S bu mhath na'm biodh e dearbhte."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 373
X. RAONULL OG, am fear 's an deach an daol-chridhe, married an Irish
lady, "a' Bhaintighearna Bheag," who hrought with her a Tochar of Irish-
men, to whom the townland of lonar-Odhair was allotted. Here their
descendants continued to reside, as a colony, till the end of last century,
when they emigrated to America. Of this Tochar are the Boyles and the
Burkes, still in the Braes. Na Burcaich have now changed their name into
Macdonald. The Baintighearna Bheag somehow mysteriously disappeared ;
but she is still seen, by favourites, of a winter evening in the woods of
Coille-Diamhain. Eaonull Og having been almost always an outlaw may
be said not to have succeeded his father at all. He hid himself for a long
time in Uamha-an-Aghastair, in the hills of Lochtreig ; but managed to
escape to Spain : —
" Bha mi la air lorg taghain,
'S thug i mi gu cro ;
Aite nach bu mhiste learn —
Cidsin Raonnill 6ig.
Bha tuagh, 'us tal, 'us tora ann,
'Us coire 'bhruicheadh feoil ;
'S gu'n robh de bhoicinn ghobhar ann
Na dh'fhoghnadh dhomh ri m' bheo."
The manner and place of his death are uncertain. He was succeeded by
his son —
XL AONQHUS ODHAR. In 1639 the Campbells laid waste the Braes
of Lochaber ; to revenge the injury some 120 of the Braerians made a foray
into the lands of the Campbells. On their way homewards this Chief fell
in a skirmish with the Campbells at Stronchlachain, in the year 1 640. Iain
Lorn (Turner, p. 98) laments the loss of this chief. Angus composed a
number of songs, one of which may be seen in Leabhar Raonaill Duibh,
1776, p. 266. He left a young family, but his son, Angus Og, did not
succeed him. He was the progenitor of Achnancoichean, and died at an
advanced age. His grand-daughter, M Mhic Aonghuis Oig, was the
authoress of "An ulaidh phriseil 'bha bhuainne" (Turner p. 128).
Aonghus Odhar was succeeded by his uncle —
XII. ALASTAIR BEJIDHE, in the absence of Donall Glas, his elder
brother, who is properly XII. Donall Glas married a daughter of
Forrester of Kilbagie, Clackmannan, by whom he had —
1. Alastair.
2. Raonall.
3. A daughter, died unmarried. She composed " Cumha M Mhic
EaonaiU."
Donald Glas figured at Inverlochy, for which he was forfeited. To
return to Alastair Buidhe ; in 1647 a letter of Lawburrows is issued
against him by Chisholm of Comar. In 1650, as Tutor of Keppoch, he
is ordered to command those bearing his name, or who are his friends.
He married, first, a daughter of Angus M6r of Bohuntin, and when not
acting Tutor of Keppoch, he resided first at Glac-a'-bhriogais ; secondly
at Tom-an-tighe-mhoir, Bohuntin. By his first wife, who was drowned
on Bun-Ruaidh, he had —
1. Ailein Dearg.
374 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
2. Gilleasba-na- Ceapaich.
By his second wife he had uo issue. He was succeeded by his
nephew —
XIII. ALASTAIR MAC DHONAILL GHLAIS, who, with his brother
Raonall, was murdered at Keppoch. See Iain Lom's " Murt na Ceapaich."
This Alastair was succeeded by his uncle —
XIV. ALASTAIR BUIDHE, of whom, supra. XII. Alastair Buidhe, who
was dead before 1665, was succeeded, though only for a few months, by
his son —
XV. AILEIN DEARG, murdered at Tulloch before 1666. He left no
issue, and was succeeded by his brother —
XVI. GILLEASBA NA CEAPAICH, who married a daughter of Letterfinlay,
by whom he had —
1. Colla na Ceapaich.
2. Raonall Mor Thir-na-dris.
3. Mor.
4. Seonaid.
5. Catriona, grandmother of Lachlan Macpherson of Strathmashie.
6. Sile na Ceapaich, the poetess, who married the Laird of Beldorney,
Banffshire.
Gilleasba was educated at Torres. He had the reputation of being
a shrewd man, In 1667 some of the Braeiians made a foray into Glen-
esk, but seemingly without his permission. In September 1675 he
joined Glengarry and Lochiel when they went to Mull to assist the Mac-
leans against Argyll The following verses, composed by (?) " the witch-
wife who had promised the McLains that, so long as she lived, the Earl
of Argyll should not enter Mull," refers to that occasion —
" Hi haori ri iu,
Hiri am boho hug 4ile,
Chall oho hi iu.
" Chunnacas long seach an caolas,
Hi haori iu,
Hiri am boho hug eile,
Chall oho hi iu.
" Ceart aogasg Mhic-Cailein,
Chall oho hi iu.
" Ach gu'n till an Righ m<5r e,
Hi haori ri iu,
Hiri am boho hug eile,
Chall oho hi iu.
" Ma tha Dubhart air 'aire,
Chall oho hi iu.
" Guidhim tonn thair a tobhta,
Hi haori ri iu,
Hiri am boho hug eile,
Chall oho hi iu.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 375
" Dh'f hiach an tog i dheth 'marachd,
Chall oho hi iu."
He was one of the chiefs who had to present themselves at Inverlochy in
November 1678. In 1679, in conjunction with Argyll, he calls for Calder.
He composed many songs, a few of which are still extant. He died in
the year 1682, and was succeeded by his son —
XVII. COLLA NA CEAPAICH. He was only eighteen years of age
when, at his father's death, he was taken home from St Andrew's Uni-
versity. In 1685-6 he joined the Duke of Gordon, the Marquis of Athole,
and Lord Strathnaver, when they invaded Argyll. He fought Mulroy in
1688 ; took the Castle of Euthven, besieged the Castle of Inverness, and
plundered the town, for which he was ordered to restore 4000 merks to
the burgh ; was at Killiecrankie ; and again at Sheriffmuir, where he
routed the English cavalry. He was living in 1723. He married Bar-
bara, daughter of Sir Donald Macdonald of Sleat, by whom he had —
1. Alastair, who succeeded him.
2. Donall.
3. Mairghread.
XVIII. ALASTAIR studied at the University of Glasgow. He is
entered thus : Alexander M'Donald filius natu maximus Domini de Kea-
pach, 1713. He and his brother Donald fell at Culloden. He married
a daughter of Eobert Stewart of Appin, " Nic Iain Stiubhart," by his
second wife, a daughter of Eobert Campbell of Lochnell. Besides a
Gille-gun-iarraidh, Aonghus Ban, he had by Miss Stewart —
1. Raonull Og.
2. Alastair, "Am Maidseir M6r,"
He had several daughters, of whom
1. Married John Macdonald of Killichonate.
2. Married Alexander Macdonald of Tullochchrom.
3. Married Alexander's son.
4. Clementina, married Macnab of Innish-Eobhainn.
5. Barbara, who married, on the 28th December 1757, Patrick Mac-
donald, minister of Kilmore, who edited a collection of Highland vocal
airs collected by his brother, Joseph Macdonald, 1781, "She was a
Eoman Catholic, and attended neither public nor family worship with
the family." She died in 1804.
XIX. EAONDLL OG was with his brother, Alastair, through the
American "War. He was dead before 1798, and is buried on the top of
Tom-Aingeal, in Cille-Chaorraill. He married Miss Cargill of Jamaica,
by whom he had several children, of whom —
1. Alastair, died in the army without issue.
2. Richard, died without issue.
XX. ALASTAIR AM MAIDSEIR MOB, married a daughter of Donald
Macdonell, who was executed in 1746, at Carlisle. He emigrated to
America, where his descendants are still flourishing.
376 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
A PHILOLOGICAL EAMBLE THROUGH A HIGHLAND GLEN.
IN these days of rapid travelling, when a trip to what our forefathers
called " foreign parts," is reckoned but the work of a busy man's brief
holiday, travellers' tales are plentiful enough ; but I am inclined to think
that, from the facilities afforded by the railway for speedy transit, the
narratives of the travels of modern tourists lack much of the minute and
careful record of observation that was wont to characterise the journals of
" the old school " of pedestrian sight-seekers. From the force of circum-
stances, therefore, the idea conveyed to the mind of the modern traveller
of the country through which he passes must be indistinct, hazy, vague.
A general impression of the outlines of the country, relieved, it may be,
by, here and there, a more clearly defined memory of some striking
feature in the landscape, is all that he can retain, and therefore (unless
indeed he draw on his imagination) all that he can set down in writing
for the instruction of his readers. That such a method of gathering in-
formation is utterly unsatisfactory to one who really wishes to know a
country will be readily admitted, for we are all aware that, behind the
first and general impression conveyed to the mind, there ever lies the
most valuable and, as a rule, the most interesting matter to be gathered
from the close discriminating study of details. I have frequently been
amused by the hastily gathered and rashly printed impressions of travel-
lers of the kind in question. As a rule their confidence is only equalled
by their ignorance. Cursory observation, I may add, is only valuable
where close and careful scrutiny is impossible. In countries that are un-
explored, like the interior of Africa for example, the former method (the
cursory and desultory) is of great value, but only because, as yet, the
latter way is not practicable. By and bye the results of the explorations
of a Livingstone and a Stanley will cease to be of value except from a
historical and antiquarian point of view, not so much because of the
changes that will take place in the condition of the country, as because of
the necessarily superficial views of the portions traversed that those
travellers are restricted to giving. Of course in these cases the fault lies
with the obstacles presented to the explorers by their position as the
pioneers of civilization, and not, as in the case of ordinary travellers
through well-known countries, from the great facility of rapid progress.
The result is the same, however, in both cases — another example of the
adage that "extremes meet"
Not the least useful, though certainly not the most honoured, tra-
veller is he who carefully notes every fact in connection with his journey,
even those that might seem trivial and valueless to the ordinary wayfarer.
By such men have been gathered the treasures of folk-lore (the value of
which is only beginning to be understood), and the tales and legends
which, while they may be regarded as in themselves somewhat puerile,
and only worth treasuring for the sake of the amusement they afford, are
yet of great value in throwing light on the turn of mind, the modes of
life, and even the religious beliefs of the people among whom they wore
originated — or if not originated — at least retained.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 377
I am convinced that there is much work of this kind for minds of the
type that I have indicated yet remaining to be done in our own country,
and that invaluable treasures of much and abiding interest are daily slip-
ping away from our grasp, purely from lack of what I call the oltservative
faculty in the inhabitants of our glens. In some cases, I am aware, good
work has been done in the direction of rescuing from oblivion such pre-
cious waifs, notably by Mr Campbell of Islay, but much remains yet un-
done that might easily be done if men could be found ready and willing
to do it. I myself have listened to tales of adventure and of foray by a
Highland cottage fireside that would have furnished material for several
Waverleys, and of ghost, witch, and fairy legends, enough to fill a large
volume, and quite as wonderful as those of the famous " Thousand-and-
One Nights."
My purpose in this paper is as much to call attention to this field for
gleaners as to offer a very small contribution of the results of a hurried
glance over one part of it. I do not pretend to do more than point out
what might be done in this direction. Unfortunately, I have little op-
portunity to follow up my inclination to make further researches in what
is a very instructive and at the same time pleasing study.
Shakspere asks "What is in a name?" asserting, implicitly at least,
that there is nothing in it. Most of us will differ with him there. In
the names of places, I submit, there is a great deal Who of us but will
own that in many instances we find the clearest and best defined of the
existent traces of history in the nomenclature of localities. The most
permanent traces of the Roman occupation of England are found not in
the camps that are scattered at intervals over the country, nor in the
crumbling remains of the walls of Antonine and Hadrian, but in such
names as Chester, Rochester, Lancaster, &c. These names are historical
fossils that have long survived the glory of the age of which they are the
deposit. Here and there over England ineradicable marks of its frequent
invasions are to be discovered. " The Den," at Tynemouth, in South
Devon, recalls the first inroad of the Norse Vikings on England's shore,
and the Danelagh, the name that designated the only part of it in which
they obtained anything like a permanent footing, is not yet forgotten.
We might multiply examples, but enough has been said to prove, if proof
were necessary, that " there is history in a name."
In the following attempt to trace the meaning of the names of the
small and comparatively insignificant localities of a Highland glen, no-
thing of general interest is to be expected. My remarks are, of necessity,
only the " breaking of the ground," in an untried and not historically-
interesting sphere. Yet, as the accidental discovery of a few grains of
gold-dust has sometimes led the way to the disclosure and opening up of a
rich mine, I am not without the hope that others may be induced to dig
where there is more promise of something to repay labour.
The glen which is the scene of my ramble is not without natural
attractions (as what Highland glen is ?), but these are apart from my pre-
sent purpose, and I pass them over. I begin at the head of it, that is to
say, at the head of the inhabited part of it, for there is a long stretch of
it away in the direction of Ben Muic Dhui, to which I care not to carry
my readers meantime. I begin at
G 2
378 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
INNIS-RUAIRADH. — The root of the name is obvious — "Kory's Isle,"
or more correctly (in this instance) " Rory's pasture or grazing-place." I
gather, with some considerable difficulty, from " the oldest inhabitant,"
whose memory is a perfect treasure-house of legends of the past, that this
name was given to the splendid " haugh " that stretches for two or three
miles along the side of the river, from the fact that it was the favourite
resting-place of the droves of a certain " Euairidh," a cattle dealer (and
possibly also cattle-stealer) of the Rob Roy type, who did a large business"
in kyloes with the Lowlands, and periodically took this route from the
hills to the markets of the south. On one unlucky occasion he was
slain on this haugh. Tradition does not say whether his death resulted
from treachery or occurred in open battle. He has, however, a monu-
mejntum aere peremtius in Inchrory. Many a far better man has a less
lasting memorial ; for those were " rieving " days, days of " rugging and
riving," and I confess to entertaining a shrewd suspicion that Words-
worth's " simple plan " formed " Ruairidh's " moral code. He fell, I am
afraid, in repelling the attack of some of the former owners of his
" bestial " bent on its recovery. Be that as it may, he is not forgotten nor
likely soon to be.
On this same haugh of Rory's I found a memento much more inter-
esting, if (possibly) less authentic. What think you1? The grave of
FingaTs wife ! A mound bearing that designation is actually pointed out,
and easily distinguishable among the long grass of Boy-luachrach.* The
legend tells that in the futile attempt to take the Linn of Aven " in her
stride," she slipt, fell in, was drowned, and carried by the flooded stream
to the place where her grave now is. From the incident the river, for-
merly known as " Uisge-geal," took its present name " Ath-Fhinn," or
" Fingal's Ford." If the mound be really the grave of Fingal's spouse,
we shall have no difficulty in believing that " there were giantesses (and,
a fortiori, giants) in those days," judging alike from the feat she attempted
and the length of her resting-place. I shall not soon forget the look of
horror with which I was regarded by the old man who pointed out the
spot, when I proposed to seek for some practical verification of the legend
by digging in the mound. His expression of face said as plainly as
possible, "sacrilege!"' and I am not to this day quite sure that he did
not regard the departed spouse of Ossian's hero as an ancient and eminent
saint. A more pronounced contrast to Edie Ochiltree and a more devoted
admirer of sacrosancta antiqidtas could not be conceived than was my
worthy guide. We next come upon
DALEISTIE, as it is now spelt. Originally it was " Daloisdeachd," or
the haugh of audience, or possibly " Dal-eisdibh." The legend connected
with it is curious. It is said to have been once on a time the abode of a
sagart, who, in default of a place of worship capable of housing his con-
gregation, or because (which is as likely) he was a missionary sent to
evangelize the dwellers in the remote glen, was compelled to address those
who came to hear him in the open air — to hold " a conventicle " in short.
Whether his hearers were Pagans, and therefore took dire offence at his
doctrines, or lax-living Christians who relished not the stricter rule of
* Reedy or rusby marsh.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 379
life enjoined by their teacher, is left to conjecture. This much only can
be ascertained, that they burnt him, securing him, in the absence of the
orthodox stake, to a large boulder, which still stands at the lower ecd of
the haugh (or did so until recently), and is known by the name Clach-an-
t-shagairt. Whether the fire was slow, or the executioners got sickened
of their task, it appears that only the lower half of his body was consumed,
and the rest of it was conveyed for Christian interment to the burial
ground attached to the chapel of Kirkmichael, twelve miles down the
glen. There a stone cut into the rude effigy ^of the upper half of a
man is still pointed out as indicating the place of his interment. My
cicerone (the same old man, and a sound Protestant) held firmly by the
opinion that this priest was an emissary from the monastery of Glenlivat,
who had come over with the design of perverting the dwellers in Glen-
avon from the Reformed faith. For various reasons I could not accept
this theory, but did not venture to express my divergence of opinion for
fear of causing my friend to become sulky (as he was apt to do), and, as
an inevitable consequence, silent.
There are various localities occuring on the one side or the other of
the Avon as we descend that have some degree of interest attaching to
their nomenclature, but for the present I pass them over and reach
DELAVORAR — Dal-a-Mhorar (1 mor-fhear) " The lord's haugh," takes
its name from having been, it is said, on two occasions the temporary
camping ground of the noted Marquis of Montrose during his
campaigns on behalf of the unfortunate Stuarts. I have been unable
(from want of means of reliable reference) to fix the exact dates on which
he rested on this fine haugh. It is said that within a few years the pile
of cinders left from his armourer's furnace was to be seen near the farm-
house that stands at the upper end of the haugh, but this I am disposed
to doubt, or at least to take cum grano salis. However little one may be
inclined to sympathise with the political views of Montrose or to approve
of his beheaviour as a citizen, it is impossible to withhold from him the
merit of being alike a dashing soldier and a most skilful general. But
the fates were against him.
I might enter into descriptions of many more localities, whose situa-
tion or associations have given them their names, but I am reluctant to tres-
pass on the patience of the reader. There is the burn of Fergie which
most fitly derives its name from fearg (anger) as it is the most tumultuous
and brawling stream that I know. There is also Alt-fliridh-mliath or Alt-
righ-mhath, the root of which is doubtful, though I incline to the former
spelling from the productiveness of the long valley through which it runs.
But I fancy I have done enough in the way of " breaking ground." It
may be that in a future paper I shall take up the other places whose
names have a philological interest in this remote Highland glen. It
seems to me to be a cause of great regret that fugitive legends of every
sort that are floating in the memories of many of the inhabitants of our
glens, arid which, though having for the nonce " a local habitation and a
name," are not being gathered up by those who have the opportunity of
doing so, and therefore inevitably melt " into the infinite azure of the
past," are not in some permanent way preserved for the perusal and in-
struction of coming generations. The grand old motto of " Highlanders
380 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
shoulder to shoulder ! " might surely be most serviceably brought to bear
in such a cause, and the result be a volume of universal interest — such
as was Sir John Sinclair's Statistical Account of Scotland, and for a
similar reason. Might not the members of the Comunn Gaidhealach
contribute, each his quota, for the formation of a volume of this kind.
If they did I would venture to predict for such a book (with a competent
and discriminating editor) an immediate preciousness (pecuniarily) and a
future pricelessness.
A. MACGREGOR ROSE.
THE HIGHLAND SPORTSMAN'S SONG-1879.
Give us of Sport and what reck we
If valiant men decay,
The land is ours and we are free
To lord it as we may.
We want no happy homesteads here,
We want no cultured fields,
'Tis ours alone to track the deer,
And feel the joy it yields.
Away with the men from every glen,
The game we must pursue,
No sentiment can sway us when
We pay for what we do.
Tho' 'neath the heather-blooming soil,
There may be mines of wealth ;
The land, unmarked with human toil,
We keep for sport and health.
If smoky fumes, or furnace glare,
Or Titan hammer-din,
Impermeate the Highland air,
'Twould be ! 'twould be a sin —
Away with the men from every glen, &c.
Where Science sets its golden foot,
There Labor reigns secure,
And we must bear its smut and soot,
Yea, keep the toiling poor.
We want no grimy Labor's sons,
In glens or valleys here ;
They're ours ! and while we love our guns,
We'll keep them but for deer.
Away with the men from every glen, &c.
We heed no tales of clansmen brave,
Or of the times gone by,
The Highland race we cannot save
If they are doomed to die.
Then why should we inducements give
For men to flourish here?
Tis only for ourselves we live !
So let them disappear.
Away with the mcu from every glen, &c.
SuNDERLAND. WM. ALLAN.
THE History of the Family of Gairloch, and an article on " The Early
Possessors and Writs of Culloden," by Charles Eraser-Mackintosh, M.P.,
have been unavoidably left over.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 381
OLomxiporibtntz.
THE SCOTTISH BIBLE SOCIETY'S 8vo. EDITION" OF THE
GAELIC SCEIPTUEES.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Edinburgh, 8th July 1879.
DEAR SIR, — I observe in a paper in your last issue by my neighbour, the
Rev. Dr Masson, some reference to the 8vo. edition of the Gaelic Bible,
published in 1860 by the National Bible Society, and edited by Dr Clerk,
of Kilmallie and myself. The statements in that reference should have
been made with more regard to accuracy. I am not going to say a word
about Dr Masson's criticisms of the Gaelic nor of his Miltonic account of
the Gaelic Scriptures' Committee, of which he was a member, and must
have contributed to the sulphur and the fat. Bat there are statements
made by him which cannot be allowed to pass as true.
He says " three thousand copies of it were printed, but except among
the Highlanders of Canada and the out-lying Hebrides, a copy of it is now
rarely met with." He says further, " It is right to add that these mis-
prints were carefully corrected in the Scottish Bible Society's edition of
1868."
Now, Sir, I have made enquiry at the office of the National Bible
Society, and find that the first 1860 edition is long out of print, but that
altogether 14,000 copies of it have been printed, and that there is an
edition of 3000 just gone to press now.
With regard to the second statement I never hoard of an edition by
the Scottish Bible Society in 1868, but I know that Dr Clerk and I cor-
rected the misprints in the 1860 edition, and that the edition of 1868
appeared with these corrections, of which very few were required.
Dr Masson further says that " it will be satisfactory to learn that the
Scottish Bible Society has at press a reprint of the 1826 Bible, in which
it is proposed to change nothing but the exceedingly few misprints which
escaped the careful eye of Dr Macdonald."
I can learn nothing of any such edition, but I know of an edition
by the National Bible Society with references for the first time
in Gaelic, on which Dr Clerk and I, aided by an excellent Gaelic
scholar, have been engaged for two years, and which we expect soon to
be out. It looks as if Dr Masson had mistaken the one Society for the
other. If so, this part of his paper is a tissue of blunders. I have a
very strong repugnance to controversy about Gaelic, having found it very-
unprofitable, but I feel it necessary to make some reference to these state-
ments of fact. — Yours faithfully,
THOS. MACLAUOHLAN.
TO THE EDITOR OP THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
SIR, — Dr Masson, in his last article on the Gaelic Scriptures, has fallen
into a mistake in regard to " the Scottish Bible Society's edition of 1868,"
in which he thinks the misprints of the edition of 1 860 were " carefully
382 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
corrected." What the Society did in 1808 was to issue, not a new edi-
tion of the Gaelic Scriptures, but a new impression of the stereotyped
edition of I860, with the date of 18G8 on the title-page. The ollbnsivc
edition of 1860 is, therefore, still in circulation, and the misstaternent to
which Dr Masson has referred as to its having been " authorised by the
General Assembly of the Church of Scotland," is still imprinted on its
title-page.
Previous to 1868 I furnished my friend, Dr Clerk, with a list of
typographical errors, including that in Job 24, 14, which I had detected
in the edition of 1860. When the impression of 1868 appeared I dis-
covered that there had been attempts, by making alterations in the plates,
to correct some of those errors. Some of the attempts succeeded, but
some of them are failures, and, in some instances, the alterations are worse
than the previous errors. As examples, I may refer to John xix., 29,
where the attempt to correct a typographical error in the edition of 1860
has produced two errors in the impression of 1868, and to Jeremiah xxv.,
1, where, in the impression of 1868, a large blank space, completely de-
stroying the sense, is the result of an attempt to correct an error in the
edition of 1860. I have also noted, in the impression of 1868, errors
which did not exist in the first impression, but which must have been
introduced by subsequent alterations in the plates. The last impression,
therefore, of the edition of 1860 can hardly be regarded as an improve-
ment upon the first impression, by which were introduced into the Gaelic
Scriptures innumerable errors and anomalies which are not to be found
in any previous edition.
It is very much to be regretted that, notwithstanding representations
made to the Directors of the Society and their Secretary, the Eev. Dr
Goold, by competent parties, such as the late Drs Mackintosh Mackay,
of Harris ; Smith, of Inveraray ; and Macdonald, of Comrie, they not
only have persisted in circulating the edition of 1860 with its errors, but
are, at the present time, preparing for publication an edition of the Gaelic
Scriptures with references, which is being revised by Drs Maclauchlan
and Clerk after the fashion of their revision of 1860. This new move on
the part of the Directors of the Society will necessitate, for the sake of
our Highland people, and in the interest of sound Gaelic scholarship, the
reviving of a controversy which, until a few weeks ago, I had hoped had
been for ever dead and buried. Whatever excuse there might have been
for the blunder of 1860, there can be no excuse for a repetition of it in
1879.
I purpose, as soon as possible, to republish, for circulation in the
Highlands, a lengthened criticism of the edition of 1860, which appeared
in 1870 in the columns oi' an Edinburgh newspaper, with Dr Clerk's
replies, that our Highland countrymen may have an opportunity of judg-
ing as to the value of the alterations which he and Dr Maclauchlan have
introduced, as improvements, into the Gaelic Scriptures. Meanwhile you
may be able to find space for the following statements, which are the
result of a careful and minute examination of the edition of 1860, includ-
ing the impression of 1868 : —
1. That edition contains numerous errors and anomalies which do
not occur in any previous edition of the Gaelic Scriptures. At the request
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 383
of the Society, I submitted lists of those errors and anomalies to Dr Mack-
intosh Mackay, who, as is well known, was the most eminent Gaelic
scholar of his time, and his report to the Society fully corroborated all
my statements as to the extremely inaccurate character of the edition of
1860. Several of the errors seriously afi'ect the meaning and structure of
the places in which they occur. My list of anomalous spelling, by no
means an exhaustive one, contains about 500 different words. Many of
these anomalies occur in previous editions, but many of them are found
only in the edition of 1860.
2. Many typographical errors, some of them destroying the meaning,
are to be found in the edition of 1860, which are not to be found in any
previous edition.
3. Typographical errors in the 4to. edition of 1826 are reproduced in
the edition of 1860 without being corrected,
4. Typographical and other errors in the 4to. edition of 1826, which
were corrected in subsequent reprints, remain uncorrected in the edition
of 1860.
5. In innumerable instances a part of a syllable, in forms, which
must invariably be read like monosyllabic words, are found at the end of
a line, whilst the remaining part of the syllable is found at the beginning
of the next line. The difficulty which this division of monosyllables
creates in reading Gaelic must be sufficiently obvious.
6. Numerous colloquial and corrupt forms of expression, some of them
of a most offensive character, were, for the first time, introduced by rule
into the edition of 1860.
7. Most, if not all, of the orthographical changes introduced, as im-
provements, into the edition of 1860, are the result of entirely erroneous
ideas of Gaelic and its stricture. The following are examples : —
(1) The preposition an (in), the modern form of the old Gaelic pre-
position in, cognate with Lat. in and Eng. in, is written with an apostro-
phe before it, to represent it as a contracted form. One of the editors
regarded it as a contracted preposition, " ann an " being the full form,
whilst the other regarded it as the article with the preposition ann before
it ! The ancient form in, of this preposition shews that both views are
erroneous.
(2) I find gu-n for gu'n in the impression of 1868 (1 Peter ii. 21) to
indicate that, as held by the editors in the joint committees of the Esta-
blished and Free Churches on the Gaelic Scriptures, the n is merely a
euphonic letter, and that therefore it is not essential to the construction.
The eclipse by Wi of the initial radical letter of the verb in " gu bheil,"
an expression founded upon as supporting the view of the editors, proves
conclusively that the n of gu'n, in Old Gaelic con, represents the relative,
preceded by the prep, gu, in Old Gaelic co.
(3) The editors have uniformly substituted cha-n for cha'n, to indicate
that they regard the n as merely euphonic. " Cha'n 'eil" is sufficient to
prove that their view is erroneous. The Scottish cha'n like the Irish
nocha, is from the Old Gaelic " ni con," n representing the relative, as in
gu'n.
(4) Ata, in old Gaelic ata and attd, a compound of ta (is), is common
in spoken Gaelic, in such phrases as " Ata sin f ior," " Ata mi ag radh
384 THE CELTIC MAGAZIXE.
riut." It is frequently used in all the editions of the Gaelic Scriptures
issued previous to that of I860, the editors of which regarded a before ta
as redundant. They, therefore, as a ride, deleted it, and thus an interest-
ing and expressive verbal form which still exists in the spoken language
has been removed from the Scriptures, and the weakened form tha has
been generally substituted in its stead.
In their eagerness to remove every trace of ata from the Scriptures,
the editors have sometimes deleted the relative a (cf. John iii. 4) mistak-
it for the a of ata, which, in some previous editions, had been erroneously
separated from ta. .
(5) In the edition of 1860 bhitheas has been substituted, as a general
rule, for Wiios (will be), the editors being of opinion that bios, the modern
form of the ancient future relative bias, is a contraction of bhitheas !
(6) In spoken as well as in written Gaelic, the nominative
plural frequently ends with a vowel, as nithe, briathra, beotha. In the
edition of 1860, n, which does not essentially belong to this case, is added
to the vowel termination, not causa euphonice, as in the edition of 1826,
but as a general rule. Thus, the regular nominative plural is banished
from written Gaelic, while it is still in use in spoken Gaelic.
(7) By an abundant use of apostrophes to mark inflections that often
have no existence, the editors of the edition of 1860 have converted in-
declinable into declinable words. For example, the noun tiglieama (lord),
in old Gaelic tigerne, is made tighearn in the nominative, and tigltt'«rna
or tiglieant in the genitive. I have reason to believe that one of the
editors has become sensible of the difficulty of changing the structure of
Gaelic, and that he is resolved, for the future, to let indeclinable words
remain indeclinable !
(8) Examples have already been give of the use of apostrophes in this
edition to mark elisions where there are no elisions. I shall now add
another of frequent occurrence, although erroneous. The infinitive in
Gaelic is a substantive, and is subject to the same rules of construction as
any other substantive. It governs the noun following in the genitive,
and is itself governed in the dative or the accusative according as the
governing word takes the dative or the accusative after it. For example,
the infinitive bith, (being) in old Gaelic buith, but now erroneously
written bhi, is preceded and governed by preposition?, as " a bhi,"
or " do bhi " (to be), " gu bhi " (to being, with being), " o bhi " (from
being), "le bhi" (by being), "gun bhi" (without being) "air bhi"
(on being). Overlooking this simple rule of Gaelic construction, the
editors of the edition of I860 imagined that this infinitive must always
be preceded by the preposition a or do, either expressed or represented by
an apostrophe. They, therefore, frequently wrote "gu 'bhi" for "gu bhi,"
"o 'bhi" for "o bhi," "le 'bhi" for "le bhi," "gun 'bhi" for "gun bhi,"
and "air 'bhi" for "air bhi," to indicate that they regarded "gu do bhi,"
" o do bhi," " le do bhi," " gun do bhi," and " air do bhi," as the full
forms of these expressions !
(9) The pronoun do (thy) is written f, in both ancient and modern
Gaelic, before nouns beginning with a vowel, as " t'6glach " (thy servant),
"t'urnuigh" (thy prayer). In the edition of 1860 d' has been substi-
tuted for t', contrary to the invariable pronunciation, and in disregard of
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 385
the important fact noticed by Dr Stokes (cf. Ir. GL, p. 80) that t must
have been the original letter, as shown by Sansk. tava, Lat. tuus, and
Eng. tin/.
(10) Dr Masson has happily remarked that the change of the prep.
do into de in such sentences as " Smuainicheadh a leithid sin de dhuine
so," &c., is "the great grammatical improvement" which the edition of
1860 professes to have introduced into the Gaelic Scriptures ! It must
be borne in mind that d, before or after a small vowel, has invariably its
soft sound, and that, therefore, de in the above sentence must be pro-
nounced very nearly like je in jelly, and exactly like Gaelic deth (of him,
of it). But the editors have not been satisfied with the introduction of
de into such sentences as the above, in which its use is contrary to
modern Gaelic pronounciation. They have also introduced it into places
in which it completely destroys the sense, as shown by the following ex-
amples : — "Duine de Bhetlehem ludah" (Ruth i. 1) ; "Agus anns an
treas bliadhna de Hoseah mac Elah righ Israeil " (2 Kings xviii. 1 ) ;
" Bithibh baigheil riu air ar son-ne, a chionn nach do ghleidh sinn de
gach fear a bhean anns a' chogadh " (Judges xxi. 22).
I do not object to the use of de in such sentences as "aon de 'n
t-sluagh " (one of the people, i.e., one from among the people), " ghearr e
geug de 'n chraoibh " (he cut a branch off the tree) ; but nothing can be
more contrary to Gaelic idiom than the general use of this preposition in
the edition of 1860.
(11) The tenacity with which old idioms retain their place in a
language is shown by the prevailing use in spoken Gaelic of the phrases,
"Tha fhios again," "Tha fhios agad," &c., where fios is aspirated because
it is preceded by the possessive pronoun understood. " Tha fhios agam "
thus means, literally, " I have its knowledge," or " I have the knowledge
of it." "Tha fhios agam gu bheil an la fuar " (I have the knowledge of
it that the day is cold). The attempts of former editors of the Gaelic
Scriptures to banish this idiom from written Gaelic have been fully en-
dorsed by the editors of the edition of 1860.
(12) But the editors' efforts in the direction of improving the Gaelic
language have not been restricted to the discarding of living idioms.
They do not hesitate, when they deem it expedient or desirable, to create
new ones. One example will suffice here. Puzzled, apparently, as to
the construction of such phrases as, "Co fhad as sin " (Psalm ciii. 12) ;
" Am fad is be6 e " (Rom. vii. 1, 2) ; " Am feadh is be6 a fear " (Rom. vii.
3) ; " Air chor as nach ban-adhaltranach i " ( Rom vii. 3) ; they consid-
ered that the introduction of the conjunction agits (and), or, at least, of a
part of agus, might help to clear up the difficulty. Accordingly, in the
edition of 1860, "am fad is be6 e " and "am feadh is be6 a fear" (Rom.
vii. 2, 3) have been altered, but not improved, into " am fad 's is be6 e,"
and " am feadh 's is beo a fear," the parallel construction, " air chor as
nach ban-adhaltranach i," in the same place, having been left as in former
editions. In all these places, the construction is plain ; but the ortho-
graphy, in all the editions, is irregular. The phrases should be written,
"Co fhad a's sin" ; "am fad a's beo e" ; "am feadh a's be6 a fear" ;
" air chor a's nach ban-adhaltranach i."
To the above examples others of a similar nature might be added, but
those given are sufficient to shew the kind of improvements on Gaelic
386 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
orthography, for which we are indebted to the editors of the 1860 edition
of the Gaelic Scriptures.
I may be permitted to add here that for both of the gentlemen, whose
editorial work I have criticised so freely, I entertain, on personal grounds,
very great respect, and that I regret that it is necessary, in the interest
of the Gaelic Scriptures, which Highlanders so highly prize, to make the
above remarks. — I am, &c.,
ALEXANDER CAMERON.
BRODICK, 16th July 1879.
GENEALOGICAL NOTES AND QUERIES.
ANSWERS.
BOSSES OF INVERCHARRON.
I AM unable to give at present authentic information regarding the Rosses
of Invercharron previous to 1 600 or so, but observing some inaccuracies
in " J. D. M'K.'s " note thereanent, I deem it right to supplement it at
once.
The first of the family was William Ross, second son of Sir David of
Balnagowan, Knight,1 who (Sir David) died in May 1527.2 He was
sometimes called William of Ardgay.1 His direct succession is non est.
But between 1600 and 1797 there were eight generations and nine Lairds
of Invercharron,2 the last being William, who was son of David, who was
son of William, who was son of William, who was immediate younger
brother of Walter, who were both sons of Walter who was son of William,
who was son of Alexander (Sas. Invss. Retours Deeds). Alexander of
Invercharron died in September 1619.3 Alexander was survived by his
spouse, Isabella Ross, who, on 26th February 1632, is mentioned as wife
to a " discrete young man," Alexander Ross Thomassoun, in Tuttumtar-
wigh.4 The facts of her discreet "young" husband in 1632 and of
Walter, Alexander's grandson, being married ante 1625 suggest she may
have been a second wife. His younger sons were Donald4 Alexander, in
1629 "in Balnagowan," and in 1641 "now in Drumgillie," whose wife
was Agnes Macculloch,5 George lived 1638 (Retours), Houcheon lived
1603 and 8,6 John lived 1603,7 Thomas lived 1 607-1 649.8 Sir Robert
Gordon mentions two sons, Nicholas and David, who went " to the wars"
with Sir Donald Mackay about 1626 (and possibly as he is neither prais-
1. Tables said to be in possession of Bal- 5. Sas. Invss., vol. 4. 167,20th. Oct. 1641,
nagowan. and llth Aug. 1652.
2. Kal Feme. 6. Sec. Sig., vol. 76, 253 and 77 221.
3. Kal Feme. 7. Sec. Sig., vol. 76, 73 243
4. Sas. Invss., 30th July 1637. 8. Sas. Invss., 21st May 1607, and 16th
May 1649.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 387
ing his ancestors nor dispraising their enemies, he may be credited),
David being appointed, in 1631, Adam Gordon's Lieutenant in Sweeden.
In 1595 remission oi slaughter is granted to Nicholas Eoss of Culnahal
and Walter Eoss of Cutumcarrach (Tutumtarwigh1?), brothers of William
Boss of Invercharron, for being art and part in the murder of Captain
James Ross,9 it not appearing whether they were brothers of William,
son of Alexander of Invercharron, who is frequently during his father's
lifetime designated "of" Invercharron, or of a previous owner. William
" appeareant " of Invercharron, has himself, in 1605, a lemission for being
art and part in the murder, in June 1593, of two savages called Gilli-
christ Makeondachie and Air, his son,10 and in 1606 the King grants him
escheit of the guids of Jon Eoss in Mulderg.11 William died 13th Octo-
ber 1622, and was buried at Kincardine on the 15th12 — the good monks
calling him " ane honorabil man." His younger sons were Hugh and
Alexander.13 Previous to 1625 Walter, William's son15 and successor,
also Alexander's grandson, had married Isobella (or Elizabeth) Monro,16
who, by 25th Febauary 1614, had been relict of James Innes of Cal-
rossie.17 Some printed authorities call her Christian, daughter of Andrew
son of George Monro of Milntoun. Her name, however, is not in the
pedigree in possession of Milntoun's representative. Of Walter's family,
Janet, on 7th October 1639, is about to marry Thomas Eoss of Priesthill ;18
by 15th April 1641 she is his wife,19 and by 12th August 1664 she is
relict of Kenneth Mackenzie of Scatwell.20 A Christian Eoss, who was
spouse of Hugh Macleod, 1st of Cambuscurrie is said to have been
another daughter. Walter and spouse continue to appear in record until
1652, and on 5th July said year, his son, William Eoss of Gruinyeard,
"consents" to a legal instrument granted by his father.21 William's
spouse was Jonet Innes.22 As will be seen from Cont. Mat. below,
William succeeded his father,
On 30th December 1661 William of Invercharron grants a charter of
Invercharron to his eldest son and apparent heir, Walter, and to Walter's
spouse, Margaret Gray, relict of George Murray of Pulrossie23 (daughter
of Alexander Gray I of Creich, by Isobel Bane, daughter to Alexander of
Logie.) Walter dies without issue, as is shown by his brother William's
contract of marriaga of 9th June 1677, with Christian Eoss, daughter
of Malcolm, 1st of Kindeis (previously called " portioner of Midganie "
and owner " of Knockan," younger son ot David Eoss, 2d of Pitcalnie), by
which he binds himself to be served, retoured, and infeft to the late
Walter of Invercharron, his grandfather, William of Invercharron, his
father, and Walter of Invercharron, his brother. William had a brother
Hugh,24 designed " of Glastullich," which he held on charter of apprysing
— "of Braelangwell" on contract of wadset — and "Tutor of Invercharron,"
who married Helen Dunbar, daughter of David of Dunphail,24A relict
9. Sec. Sig., 74 373. 18. Sas. Invss., 15th October 1639.
10. Sec. Sig., 74 373. 19. Sas. Invss., 22d AprU 1641.
11. Sec. Sig., 45-43. 20. Sas. Invss., 14th September 1664.
12. Kal. Feme. 21. Sas. Invss., 4th August 1652.
13 Sas. Invss., 31st May 1621. 22. Sas. Invss., llth August 1652.
15. Sas. Invss., 9th January 1620. 23. Sas. IHVSS., 30th April 1683.
16. Sas. Invss., 9th June 1625. 24. Sus. Invss., 26th August 1687.
17. Summons. 24A. Sas. Invss., 7th September 1678.
388 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
of, as second husband, Hugh Macculloch of Glastullich,25 eldest son,
of the second marriage, of Andrew Macculloch, 1st of Glastullich. A
sister, Janet, married George Baillie of Dimaiu, and another, Isobella,
married, in 1660, Andrew Eoss, then appearant of, afterwards 5th of
Shandwick. William died between 18th August 1687 and 15th August
1691. His relict married John Eoss of Gruinyeard (probably a wad-
setter).26 His daughter, Katharine, married John Macculloch, a Bailie of
Tayne, son of Angus of Bellacuith, and heir of his father, Sir Hugh of
Piltoun.
William, this William's son, has a charter of Easter and Wester
Gruinyeards from Sir David Eoss of Balnagowan, the superior in 1708,
as heir to his uncle Walter, being elder son of William, brother-german,
next by birth to Walter,27 those portions of the estate having apparently
been in non-entry since Walter's death ; and presently William grants
an infeftment in implement of his marriage contract, dated 22d August
1707, to his spouse, Helen Eoss, daughter to his uncle and Tutor, Hugh
of Braelangwell.28 They had a daughter, Janet, married, in 1745, Angus
Sutherland, residing in Gruinyeard, after tacksman of Kincardine ; a son,
George ; two younger children,29 and their eldest son, David, who, on 2d
October 1736, is granted a disposition from the superior, the Earl of Cro-
marty, of the lands of Invercharron, as eldest son and heir of deceased
William, his father. 30 David of Invercharron married Isobella, only d aughter
of Hugh Eoss, 8th of Auchnacloich (and Tollie), by Janet, sister of Sir
William Gordon of Invergordon, by whom he had David, who died at
Ballimore, America, in 179 — ; Margaret Janet married John Monro, ship-
carpenter in London ; Hannah and Hughina, and William, his heir. He
died in 1758,31 his relict re-marrying with Eobert Monro in Invercharrou.
On 12th March 1861 Lieut. William Eoss of Invercharron gives power
to Eoderick Macculloch, one of his curators, to " make up his titles to
David of Invercharron, his father, and William of Invercharron, his
grandfather, as by his military employment he must be abroad " (Deed),
and on 12th August 1763 he is granted precept from chancery for sasine
in Invercharron, which now holds of the Crown in place of the Earl of
Cromarty, by reason* of his forfeiture, and which had been granted by the
said Earl to David his father. On 2d October 173632 he married Anne
Eoss, daughter of the 2d, and sister of the last David Eoss of Innerchasley
(uncertain whether by first wife, Elspet Sutherland, or by second, Anne
Eoss) and by post-nuptial contract of 1762, he fixes the succession, failing
the heirs of his body, on David Eoss, his only brother-german.33 His
children were David, Captain 71st Foot ; Helen married David MaCaw,
Accountant of Excise in Edinburgh, and Elizabeth, his second daughter ;
all alive in 1797. A son, Charles, died ante (Deed). The estate was
sold between 1790 and 1800, William Eobertson of Kindeis purchasing
Easter and Wester Gruinyeards ; Major-General Charles Eoss, Inver-
charron, with its pendicle of Ehianstron and fishing of Polmorill. Glen-
calvie, the other portion of the estate, went to some one else.
25. Sas. Invss., 22d December 169L 30. Sas. Invss., 29th November 1736.
26. Deed. 31. Retours 1763.
27. San. Invsa., August 7, 1708. 32. Rekours, 2d November 17fi3.
28. Sas. Invss., 9th August 1708. 33. llotours, 2d November 17G3.
29. Deed.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 389
I have not counted Captain David a laird, although his father
denuded himself of the lands in the hoy's favour in 1769. During these
two centuries several owned the estate on apprysing — viz. : — Andrew
Boss, Provost of Tayne ; the Ealnagowans ; Hugh Macleod of Cambus-
currie ; Mr William Eoss of Shandwick, &c.
In reference to J. D. M'K.'s Note I may remark it is scarcely probable
that the daughter of the Davochmaluag, who died in 1534, was spouse of
William Eoss who died in 1622, and he gives no authority for the state-
ment. His assertion, giving as reference Sas. 1708, f. 476, vol. 14 (which
ought to be vol. 6 of the 4th series), is clearly founded on a misreading,
William in one part of the instrument being called heir " of his uncle,"
patnd not patris, and in another " son of William brother-german next
by birth to Walter." I have not noticed Isobel Monro mentioned, as he
says, as daughter of Andrew Monro, and should be grateful for a more
direct reference.
LEX.
MAOKENZIES OF APPLECROSS.
In reply to query 18, by J. Maclagan, the following from a footnote
(p. 440) of " The History of the Mackenzies," just published, will be a
sufficient answer : — " This John (V. of Applecross), the last of this (the
original) family, deprived his brother, Kenneth, of the property, and past
it in favour of Thomas Mackenzie of Highfield, his sister's son. In order
to set aside the legal succession, and in order to prevent his brother, Ken-
neth, from marrying, he allowed him only £80 yearly for his subsistence
during his lifetime, which small allowance made it inadequate for him to
rear and support a family, so that, in all probability, this has been the
cause of making the family extinct. After this Kenneth the succession
should have reverted back to Eoderick Mackenzie, a descendant of
Eoderick, second son of John, II. of Applecross, who went to Nova Scotia
in 1802, or, failing the family of this Eory, next to his brother's family,
Malcolm, who died a few years ago in Kishorn, and, failing heirs of that
family, to the other descendants of John of Applecross, viz.: — Kenneth
of Auldinie, and John, killed at Sheriffmuir iu 1715. MS. written in
1828." A. M.
OHISHOLMS OF TEAWIG.
In the Celtic Magazine of April last, "C.D.A." wants "information
respecting the Origin and Pedigree of the Family of Chisholm of Teawig,
parish of Kilmorack, Inverness-shire." Two of the best Seanachis in the
parish of Kilmorack (Christopher Macdonell, Struy, and John Mackenzie,
Croicheil) say that the Chisholms of Teawig came originally from Suther-
land. They cannot, however, give the pedigree of the Teawig family, nor
can they state for a certainty who the present head of the family is. I
may here say that I know very respectable descendants of the family
alluded to. Were it not that it might be considered a liberty, I would
append a list of their names and addresses. So far as I am aware there
390 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
is not a man in the parish of Kilmorack who can claim descent — in the
male line — from them. There is a lineal descendant (if the genealogists
are correct) of the Teawig Chisholms — a Stipendiary Magistrate in
the prosperous Colony of Queensland. There is also one of the same
stock in business in Greenock ; another in Glasgow, and several families
in Nova Scotia ; one in Fort-Augustus, and one holding a very respect-
able position in the Isle of Skye. "C.D.A," says that the Eev. Thos.
Chisholm and the Rev. David Chisholm, ministers of Kilmorack, were of
this family. The Rev. Donald Chisholm, minister of Boleskine, who
died a few years ago, was also of the Teawigs. Some members of the
family were considered very good soldiers, some good farmers, and others
were superior engineers. One Donald Ruadh Chisholm from Teawig had
three sons by his wife, respectively named, Hugh, Donald, and William.
Hugh remained in the Aird as engineer and millwright for the famous
Lord Lovat of 1745. Donald went in a similar capacity to Clanranald,
and lived and died in Arisaig. William went to The Chisholm, also as
engineer and millwright, and lived and died in Strathglass. An old man
who recollected some of the sayings and doings of the eventful 1745, told
me that William herein alluded to, was at the head of the Strathglass
men, building the old wooden bridge that spanned the river Cannich, with
its heavy, heavy, ten couples of the best imaginable native red pine, when
they observed a stalwart Highlander fast coming towards them. He en-
quired rather unceremoniously for The Chisholm. In his own tone of
speech, he was asked to explain himself. Instantly complying with this
piece of rough and ready etiquette, the stranger — who was a trust-
worthy man from the West Coast — handed a sealed letter to The Chis-
holm, announcing the arrival of Prince Charlie in Moidart ! Just imagine,
if you can, the excitement that news caused in the Jacobite district of
Strathglass ! But to return to the wooden bridge built at Invercannich in
July 1745. Suffice it to say that it stood until the present stone bridge
was built, within a gunshot of it in 1817. Thus, for the space of seventy-
two years, it stood firm and strong against all floods and storms, and
would probably stand for another seventy-two years, if it were required
to do so — showing the skill of the builder. It was this William Chis-
holm and his brother, Hugh, who were the contractors employed by Cap-
tain John Forbes for the wood and carpenter work of the present Beau-
fort Castle, when the Lovat Estates were in the hands of the Crown.
Such are a few of the reminiscences of the Teawig Chisholms,
COLIN CHISHOLM.
NAMUR COTTAGE, INVERNESS.
CORRECTION. — My last paper on " Our Gaelic Bible " was hurriedly
written, and very hastily corrected. Please note the following corrections
as material to the argument: — (1) at the foot of page 352 for 37 read 38 ;
(2) at line 12, page 353, for 18G8 read 18G3 ; and (3) observe that the
special forms of the letters 1, n, r, are used only when these letters are
aspirated. DONALD MASSON.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 391
THE GAELIC SOCIETY OF INVERNESS— PROFESSOR
BLACKIE ON THE SOCIAL ECONOMY OF THE HIGHLANDS.
THE most successful Annual Assembly of this Society which, in many re-
spects, was ever held, came off on the Thursday evening of the last Sheep
and Wool Fair. The attendance was the largest we have yet seen at
any of the Society's meetings, and the arrangements made by the Secre-
tary, Mr AVilliam Mackenzie, of the Aberdeen Free Press, were, simply
perfect. The singing, music, and dancing were quite equal to, if not in
some respects superior, and the speaking was of a higher order, and more
practical in its nature than on any previous occasion. The Chief, Lachlan
Macdonald, Esq. of Skeabost, dealt with the vexed question of the " High-
land Crofter," and the Rev. Alexander Macgregor delivered one of his
neat Gaelic speeches, principally dealing with the military spirit displayed
by the Highlanders of the past, and especially those of the Isle of
Skye, who sent such a large number of distinguished officers and men to
the British army in the beginning of the present century.
But the speech of the evening was that of Professor Blackie. It is
far too important for mere cursory perusal in the columns of an ordinary
newspaper, and we have much pleasure in placing it in extenso before the
reader, at the same time giving it a more permanent place of record
than it could otherwise have.
The Professor proceeded to say he seldom felt more embarrassed in
his life, and seldom more pleased, because nothing pleased him more than
when he was in the midst of people who were pouring out their souls —
gushing out their natural feelings as the waters flow from the breasts of
Ben-Nevis. He expressed in sweeping terms the deepest contempt for
two classes of Highlanders — those who fawned on the Saxon, who pro-
fessed they were born to be the humble servants of the Saxon, and who
tried to take as much money out of him as possible ; and those snobs and
sneaks — (laughter) — those fellows who were ashamed of being what God
Almighty made them, namely, Highlanders. (Applause.) Highlanders,
he said, were the noblest of men — the men who fought the battles of their
country in every quarter of the globe, and the men who were ever fore-
most in promoting the best interests of Great Britain. (Applause.) " I
can only say," he continued, " that I am heartily ashamed of those who
are ashamed of being Gaelic-speaking Highlanders. (Applause.) I know
of no creatures more contemptible, and God grant that I shall be kept a
hundred miles away from all such. (Laughter and applause.) I didn't
mean to say this, but I have said it ; and now I shall say that it gives me
the greatest delight and pleasure to be amongst people who respect them-
selves, and by their self-respect pass a vote of thanks to God Almighty
for having made them as they are, Hielanders." (Laughter and applause,)
He next denounced those who depreciated Highland music. " Nothing
stirs my indignation so much as the ignorance, the pedantry, and the in-
tellectual pride of professors, schoolmasters, and inspectors sometimes — no,
not Jolly, however, (Laughter.) No, no, Jolly is a very good fellow —
a capital fellow. (Loud laughter and applause.) But I say those pro-
392 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
fessors, schoolmasters, inspectors — some inspectors, I mean — (laughter) —
school boards, Eed Tape managers up in London — and the further away
the worse — (laughter) — these lellows imagine and tell you that there is
nothing in music and song." He likened the Gaelic songs to the psalms
of David. " But for all that some Hielan' ministers will tell you that
you have nothing to do but to listen to their stupid sermons. (Laughter.)
But I tell them here that when they try to put down or discourage the
cultivation of these fine old Gaelic songs, they stamp out all that is best
and noblest in the soul of the Scottish Highlander." (Loud applause.)
His real speech, he said, he had written for his friend Mr Murdoch, and
he would only indicate the heads of it. He agreed with Murdoch in
many things, but protested against some of his ideas, especially the idea
that a glass of water was better that a glass of wine. (Laughter.) " I
can't understand that. (Renewed laughter.) He must have borrowed
that idea from the ministers who speak against the Gaelic songs and
against a glass of wine because, very often, they have no wine — (laughter)
— but David said that a glass of wine maketh glad the heart of man ; and
so long as he said that, I'll enjoy a glass of wine in spite of Murdoch or
any one." The Professor continued — There was a noteable debate Upstairs
last week on agricultural distress. That is a theme which touches the
Highlands as much as the Lowlands ; we have had agricultural distress
to complain of long before John Bull began to dream of it, and some-
thing more than distress —
PRODUCTION AND PRODUCERS.
A few remarks on this subject, not especially touched upon Upstairs,
may not seem out of season at the present moment. Since the commence-
ment of the present century, and somewhat earlier, Great Britain and Ire-
land have suffered largely from the taint of a false principle of social
science, borrowed from the enconomists, which, though veiled for a season
by a growth of monstrous prosperity in certain limbs of the body politic,
is now beginning to reveal its essential hollowness, and to inspire the
most sanguine with no very cheerful forebodings as to the future, both of
our industrial activity and our agrarian culture. This false principle is
that the wealth of a country consists in money, not in men ; in the quan-
tity or quality of merely material products, without regard to the quantity
or the quality of the producers. As opposed to the old feudal principle
by which society was held together for many centuries, it is sometimes
called the commercial principle, and is generally represented by the
fashionable philosophy of the hour as an immense advance on that which
preceded it. But this is very far from being the case. The feudal bur-
dens and the feudal privileges that in France caused the great revolution
of 1 789, the starting point of our modern social movements, represented
not the feudal system in its natural vigour and healthy action, but in a
state of corruption and decadence ; besides that, in the Highlands at least,
it was not the feudal system which was supplanted by the commercial
system, but the old system of clanship which had its root, not in military
conquest, but in family kinship, Now, what does this commercial sys-
tem mean as an acting power in the great machine of society 1 I am
afraid we must distinctly say that if left to its own action, and unseasoned
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 393
by higher influences, it means mere selfishness. It means money; it
deals with purely material considerations, not only divorced from, but
not seldom altogether opposed to what is moral ; it means buying in the
cheapest market and selling in the dearest ; it means taking every pos-
sible advantage of a weak and ignorant neighbour for your own gain ; it
means not merely spoiling the Egyptians — which was a very legitimate
thing in the circumstances — but it means spoiling the whole world with-
out regard to the happiness, comfort, or well-being of your fellow-creatures,
provided you enrich yourself. If you think this strong language, remem-
ber what I have just said, that the pure commercial spirit, especially in a
country like Great Britain, composed of a remarkable variety and con-
trariety of social elements, is counteracted by a number of kindly influences
which temper its virus considerably, and shorten its range ; but funda-
mentally the proposition stands true — there is nothing generous, chival-
rous, or noble in trade ; the striking of a bargain and the making of a
profit is, or must be, a selfish business ; and if the whole world were con-
stituted up to the highest power on the commercial principle, society
would be divided into two great classes, one striving to overreach the
other and the other class too clever and too strong to be overreached ;
generally, however, as the world is constituted, men whose rule of life is
the trade principle, find a party on whose weakness and whose ignorance
they can act in building up a gigantic fortune for themselves at the ex-
pense of their poorer neighbours. For such a state of society, when the
whole world is viewed as a bazaar and the people of the world a congre-
gation of shopkeepers, there can be no room for any kindly considerations
of human kindness as a cement of society. The only bond of society in
a bazaar is cash payment. But the actual world is not a bazaar, neither
are all men always shopkeepers, and eager in every transaction of the
twenty-four hours for a pecuniary profit; the world, in truth, were not
worth living in if it were so. Society in the proper sense of the word
would not be possible ; a virtual war would take its place, of every man
against every man to cheapen his neighbour's value and to raise his own.
It is plain therefore that the commercial system as a binding principle of
human association is a mistake ; it is a principle in its nature essentially
anti-social ; for the only natural bond of society is mutual dependence,
mutual esteem, and mutual love. Of this true, natural, and healthy bond
between the different classes of society, there was a great deal in the so-
called feudal system of the clans ; in the modern commercial system,
borrowed from trade, there is none of it ; and we see the consequences.
Since the commercial inspiration became dominant in the Highlands,
money has increased, but men have decreased. Money, which in its legi-
timate sphere is a grand engine of social progress, and ought always to
mean, when applied to any given country, an acceleration of useful ex-
changes among the people of the country, has in the Highlands of Scot-
land asserted its presence by causing the people altogether to disappear,
among Avhorn exchanges were to be accelerated. How should this havo
taken place ? Simply because certain great landed proprietors, taught by
their owii natural unselfishness, and the doctrines of a certain school of
economists, usurping the throne of social science, after losing the autho-
rity, and the social status, which previous to the brilliant blunder of the
H 2
394 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Forty-five, they had enjoyed, began to make money their chief god, and,
descending from the moral platform of protectors of the people, to the
material level of traffickers in land, to look upon the swift increase of
rents as the only test of social well-being ; and with this view whenever
the existence of the people or the soil tended to retard the return of large
immediate pecuniary profit into their pockets, they did not hesitate to
sacrifice the people, and to respect their pockets. Of course, I am not
bringing any charge here against whole classes of men, nor do I by any
means intend to say that the landlords of Great Britain generally are the
wicked class of society, as John Stuart Mill said they were the stupid
class. I am merely stating the strong features of the case that you may
see how the commercial principle, according to undeniable statistical evi-
dence, did act when it became securely enthroned in the breast of certain
of our landed proprietors in the Highlands ; though at the same time I
am not so ignorant of the social history of this country, as to imagine that
the pure selfishness of the commercial spirit could have achieved the
destruction and degradation of our Highland peasantry, which we now
have to lament on so portentous a scale, had it not been assisted by other
influences all converging in a series of rash unreasonable plunges to the
same disastrous result. But favoured by these desocialising influences
and unhappy circumstances, a certain number, I fear a majority of our
landed proprietors, did what they did, and contributed more or less to the
agrarian ruin of the people whom it was their duty to protect. And now
let us see a little more in detail what forms this unsocial work of rural
depopulation in the special circumstances of the Scottish Highlands
naturally assumed. The first shape that the commercial inspiration took
was in a demand for
LARGE FARMS
of every kind, but especially sheep farms. What is the advantage of
large farms ? They enable the proprietor to fish his rent at one cast from
the pocket of one big tenant, rather than from the pockets of ten small
tenants ; with this convenience the laird is naturally very much pleased,
and his factor more so ; one big farm house also, with steadings, costs less
than ten little ones ; and further, when you have got rid of the poorer
class of the peasantry by shovelling them into the nearest burgh, driving
them into the Glasgow factories, or shipping them across the seas, you
will have no poor-rates to pay and no poachers to fear. It may be also,
in certain cases, that you increase the productiveness of your land by
diminishing the number of the producers. But this is by no means either
a clear or a general case ; and any person who doubts the superior pro-
ductiveness of small farms in many cases has only to divest himself of the
shallow cant of a certain class of easy factors and ignorant lairds, and cast
a glance into the agricultural statistics of Belgium, France, Tuscany,
Denmark, Germany, and other continental countries. Besides, even sup-
posing the laird and the big farmer could divide a few hundreds more be
I ween them, when the big farmer got possession of the whole district,
dispossessing all the original tenants, the State wants men, and Society
wants men, and the country demands its fair share of population as well
as the town ; and granting for the moment that so much greater produc-
tion in the shape of money is the supreme good, it is not the quantity of
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 395
money in the pockets of the few, but the money well distributed and
fairly circulating through the pockets of the many, in which the real well-
being of a district consists. If in one district, with a rental say of
£10,000, we were to find a population of two hundred families, small pro-
prietors or small tenants, all resident on the spot, applying themselves
assiduously with their own hand to the cultivation of the soil, forming a
pleasant society among themselves, and spending their money mostly in
the district, or not very far from it ; and if in another district of the same
rental we found one wealthy laird with only half-a-dozen big farmers,
does any person imagine that the latter represents a more natural or a more
desirable condition of agrarian life than the other ? In all likelihood the
proprietor with such surplusage of cash will begin to think himself too
mighty to live quietly with quiet people in the country ; he must go to
London and spend his money in idle luxury, slippery dissipation, and
perilous gambling there ; or he may go to Florence and buy pictures ; or
to Rome and traffic in antiquities ; or to Frankfort and swallow sove-
reigns for a brag in the shape of large draughts of Johannis Berger — all
ways of spending money, for which British society is little or nothing the
better, and the district of which God made the spender the natural head
and protector, certainly a great deal the worse. And in case you should be
inclined to think that my advocacy of small farms is the talk of an un-
practical sentimentalist, I refer you to the solid and sensible remarks of
the Earl of Airlie on the same theme, in the current number of the
Fortnightly Review. So much for the lamentable results of the commer-
cial spirit which, substituting the love of money for the love of men as
the alone bond of connection betAveen the different classes of society, has
culminated in that antagonism of tendencies and hostility of interests
which are so frequently seen in the Highlands between the lord of the
land and the cultivator of the soil. Another inadequate principle adopted
by the proprietor from our doctrinaire economists is the
DIVISION OP LABOUR :
a principle well-known to Plato and Aristotle, and which, within certain
limits, is essential to all progress of human beings in the utilities and the
elegancies of life, but which, when allowed full swing according to the
favourite fashion of our economical materialists, makes us pay too dearly
for the multiplication of dead products by the deterioration and degrada-
tion of the living producer. To create and perpetuate a race of men who
can do nothing but make pin heads, is no doubt a very excellent arrange-
ment for the pin heads, but a very bad arrangement for the heads of the
men who make them. Apply this to the Highlands and see how it works.
The old Highlander was a man who could put his hand to anything, had
always a shift for every difficulty, and has proved himself the foremost
man in any colony • but the existence of such a shifty fellow being con-
trary to the universal application of the doctrine to which modern society
owes the infinite multiplication of pin heads, dolls' eyes, brass buttons,
and other glorious triumphs of modern art, we must improve society in
the Highlands by his extermination, or certainly by his expatriation ; for,
according to the great principle of the division of labour scientifically ap-
plied to the Highlands, that part of the world once so absurdly populous
396 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
and so clumsily various, should contain only three classes of men — Low-
land shepherds to attend to Lowland sheep, English lords and million-
aires to run after Highland deer for two months in the autumn, and High-
land gamekeepers to look after the deer when the south-country Ni m rods
are not there. No person, of course, will imagine that in these remarks 1
wish to run-a-muck against such a native and characteristically Highland
sport as
STALKING THE DEER.
It is in the school of deer-stalking that our best military men and
great geographical explorers have heen "bred. It is only when deer-stalk-
ing is conducted on commercial principles that it interferes with the pro-
per cherishing of population in the country, and is to be looked upon with
suspicion by the wise statesman and the patriotic citizen. Certain exten-
sive districts of the Highlands are the natural habitation of the deer, and
na man objects to finding them there or shooting them there.. But when
extensive tracts of country are enclosed and fenced round, and sent into
the market as deer forests, the State has certainly a right to enquire whe-
ther this is done in such a way as not to interfere with the well-being of
the human population who have for centuries inhabited happy dwellings,
along the green fringes and sheltered nooks which belong to these wild
districts. Now, the fact I am afraid is, that under the action of commer-
cial principles the human kind are sometimes sacrificed to the brute kind,
and a whole district, once dotted with a happy population, systematically
cleared of men, that it may be plentifully stocked with deer. For it is
impossible not to see that the professed deer-stalker is the natural enemy
of the human population on his borders ; and, if he has paid down some
£2000 or £3000 a year for the monopoly of shooting stags within a cer-
tain range, he will think himself fairly entitled, on the mercantile prin-
ciple to demand from the proprietor, that as many of the poor tenantry as
hang inconveniently on the skirts of his hunting ground shall be ejected
therefrom as soon as possible, and no new leases granted ; while, if he is
the proprietor himself, he will gradually thin out the native crofters (whom
a patriotic statesman like Baron Stein would rather have elevated into
peasant proprietors), and plant a few big farmers at a sufficient distance
from the feeding ground of his antlered tavourites. This is the fashion
in which a materialistic economy, division of labour, and aristocratic sel-
fishness may combine to empty a country of its just population, carrying
out logically in practice the anti-social principles of Macculloch and other
doctors of that soulless science which measures the progress of society by
the mass of its material products rather than by the quantity and quality
of its human producers.
PRACTICAL REMEDIES.
Let us now enquire what hope there may be of recovery from these
errors, and what legislative measures in these reforming days may help us
to restore the social equilibrium of our agrarian classes which has been so
one-sidedly deranged. First of all the spokesmen of public opinion in the
press and the pulpit, and every man of any social influence in his place
should set themselves to preach on the housetops an altogether diil'ereut
gospel from that which the economists have made fashionable — the very
THE CELTIC MAGAZIKE. 397
old gospel that the love of money is the root of all evil, and that nothing
but evil can possibly spring to a society whose grossly material prosperity
grows luxuriantly, it may be, for a season out of such a root of bitterness.
Something may be done in this way, especially with a .class of people in
whom the selfishness of the mere merchant may be considerately tem-
pered by the generosity oi aristocratic traditions. But the mere preach-
ing of this gospel, even though all the pulpits should ring with it, will, I
am afraid with the great body of those to whom it is addressed, have little
effect ; for the moral atmosphere of this country has been so corrupted by
mercantile maxims that it is difficult to move one man out of twenty to
do the smallest thing for the benefit of his fellow-creatures unless you can
prove to him that it will " pay." More hopeful it may be to attempt in-
teresting the manufacturing population of the towns in the welfare of
their rural neighbours ; showing them how the home trade, when wisely
cultivated, acts with a more steady and reliable force on home manufac-
tures than the foreign trade, and that a depopulated country and an im-
poverished peasantry are the worst possible neighbours that an energetic
urban population can possess. An occasional sermon on this text, with a
few practical illustrations from European experience in various countries,
where our monstrous system of land monopoly does not prevail, might no
doubt be useful. As for the evil done to the agricultural population by
free-trade, there seems no doubt that the danger from this quarter, not
inconsiderable now, is likely to become greater. But however wise it
may be in France and Germany and other countries to protect their na-
tive manufactures against the overwhelming activity of British traders
who, for their own aggrandisement, would gladly see the whole countries
of the world remaining for ever on the low platform which belongs to the
producers of all raw material ; nevertheless, it is in vain to expect that states-
men in this country will ever revert to the policy of protection, when that
policy means the raising the price of food to the seething mass of people
in our large towns, whom our feverish manufacturing activity keeps con-
stantly in an unhealthy oscillation betwixt the two extremes of plethora
and want. What, then, is to be done? Plainly we must buckle our-
selves— submitting with a wise grace to a permanent lowering of rents
through the whole country — to the readjustment of our land laws which,
by universal admission, are in some respects the worst possible, and di-
rectly calculated to keep up rather than to break down the unnatural an-
tagonism of interests between the lords of the land and the occupiers of
the soil, to which our present abnormal agrarian condition is mainly attribut-
able. Our land laws, as a matter of history, were made by the aristocracy,
and interpreted by the lawyers for the aggrandisement mainly of the aris-
tocracy, and not for the preservation of the people. This was natural, and
we may say necessary ; for it is one of the most trite maxims of political
science, that any class of persons> entrusted for long periods of time with
unlimited and irresponsible power are sure to abuse it. Hence the gradual
diminution of small proprietors, the absolute non-existence in Great Bri-
tain of one of the best classes in all communities, the peasant proprietors,
and the maintenance of law of heritable succession, and certain forms of
heritable conveyance, which practically tend to lock up the land in the
hands of a few, and to remove it in a great measure out of the vital cir-
398 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
culation of the community, and thus we are found at the present moment
standing pretty nearly in the same position that Eome stood when Pliny
wrote the famous sentence — Latifundia perdideie Italiam ; " Our big
estates have ruined Italy." Of course no man will suppose that I wish
to philippize against all large estates in every case as an absolute evil.
Here and there, as a variety, especially when the proprietor is a public
spirited man, as happens not seldom in this country, they may do good ;
but in the main they are not to be commended, as tending neither to the
greatest utilisation of the soil nor to the greatest prosperity of the people.
Every resident proprietor is a centre of provincial culture, and a nucleus
of local society ; and in an extensive district it is plainly better to have
twenty such centres than to have only one. We must, therefore, look
upon the accumulation of large estates in the hands of a few as an excep-
tional phenomenon, which a wise Legislature will think it a plain duty
to counteract rather than to encourage ; and this can easily be done when
the duty is once clearly acknowledged, by modifying the law of succession,
by rendering illegal all testamentary dispositions of land under whatever
guise to persons yet living, by declaring war, root and branch, against the
entail system, by removing without mercy the artificial hindrances which
our system of conveyancing lays on the transfer of landed property, by
adjusting our laws of land tenure, so as to make them always lean with a
kindly partiality to the weaker rather than to the stronger party in the
contract, by setting a strict limit to the sporting propensities of idle
gentlemanship in every case when it tends to encroach on • the industrial
use of the soil, by imposing a swinging tax on all absentee proprietors, as
persons who, while they drain the country of its money, make no social
return to the district from which they derive their social importance, and
finally, if it should be necessary, by establishing a national fund for as-
sisting small tenants and crofters in favourable situations to buy up their
tenant right and constitute themselves into peasant proprietors with abso-
lute ownership. This last proposal will, of course, be laughed at by a
large class of persons in this country, who think everything unreasonable
and impossible that is contrary to their own traditions, prejudices, and
consuetudes; but men who have little foresight and no thinking are
precisely those who, when the hour and the heed comes, are found plung-
ing wholesale into the most violent changes. I said that the reversal of
our hereditary land policy in this country implied in such changes would
be as easy in practice as it is obvious in theory, if only there were an in-
sight and a will ; but as matters stand, I much fear the insight is confined
to a few, and the will to oppose all social moves in this direction is for
the present at least much stronger than the will to make them. Never-
theless, in the natural course of things, if Britain is not to be ruined,
these changes must come ; and it were the wisdom of our aristocracy,
than whom as a whole a more respectable body does not exist in Europe,
to take the lead in a series of well calculated reforms tending to give
more independence and manhood to the cultivators of the soil, rather
than by opposing them to fan the flame of a great agrarian revolution
which may break out volcanically and overwhelm them perhaps at no
distant date.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 399
MARY MACKELLAR AT SEA.
THE first day at sea, after a while ashore, is seldom a comfortable one. There is a feel-
ing of want of accommodation — of going to rough it — a smell of bilge water — the look of
tar about the hands of the cook, and divers other matters that jar disagreeably on a de-
licate organisation. However, after a day or two one who has been at all accustomed
to these things falls naturally into the old groove, and the small troubles disappear
apace — especially if the weather is anything good. Leaving harbour in a drizzling rain,
a foggy atmosphere, and the consequent growling of seamen, is one of the most miserable
things imaginable ; whilst going off on a dry day, with a breeze of fair wind, gives a most
delightful sensation. How grand it is to get right away out of sight of land with a five-
knot breeze ! The helm managed by a steady hand, the sails full, the salt water gur-
gling, pale green, in through the lee scuppers, and the sailors all full of buoyant life and
energy.
The sea seems to me to impart its own moods to those who sail upon it, and above all
do they get that restlessness that in all its moods belongs to the great and mighty deep.
How anxiously the sailor's eye is ever turned to the constantly changing face of the hea-
vens, watching every sign. And always, when in the cabin, scanning the face of the
barometer ia case it may have a sudden warning to give. Even in a calm this unrest
exists, for then the sailors go whistling about for wind with that low broken whistle
which a shepherd uses in calling his dog ; and it is a common habit among sailors to
stick a knife in the mast towards the "airt " from which they wish the wind to come.
A calm at sea is not really pleasant. Sometimes the undulating motion of the sea con-
tinues when there is not a breath of wind, and then it is most disagreeable. But even
when the ship lies gently on the bosom of a glassy sea it is not pleasant. The quiet is
so different from that of a mountain glen — for the sea has not the voices that make the
country glad. The continued flapping and rustling of the sails too becomes disagreeably
monotonous, and there is also the feeling that no progress is being made towards the
wished for goal But then how delightful it is when the calm is over — when a gentle
breeze springs up at night, filling the sails. Again the ship feels her helm and keeps her
course. The star light dances on the waves, and the moon makes a path of gold from
the ship's side to where the sea seems to kiss the gates of heaven. The rippling sound
on the vessel's prow, like a low crowing song of gladness, may well be likened to a lul-
laby ; and the lights and shadows blend so wonderfully all around. How difficult on
such a night to tear one's self away from the influence! of such magic beauty to go to
sleep. There is something so lofty and great in such surroundings. Away from the
noisy haunts of men. Alone with God. I have often sat up on such a night and watched
the coming of morning from the first streak of dawn until, amidst roseate and gold —
blue, silver, and grey — the sun arose, large and red, from the bosom of the deep ; then,
as he hastily climbed the heavens, he became quickly smaller, and lost the red hue — be-
coming once more the glory and blessing of our half of the world.
How strangely one gets to know all the sounds of the sea, and the ear ever strains
to catch the meaning of its voices. A dull thud upon the ship's bows, a " whish " from
the crest of a wave, as it sends its spray into the sailor's face, would even in my bed at
midnight make me listen for the moaning, and sobbing, and upheaving that told of ap-
proaching " heavy weather." Boisterous weather continuing is much more dishearten-
ing than a gale of wind. In a right storm there is a visible foe to combat, and the bat-
tle gives dignity and manliness — a sense of victory and independence. As the ship goes
down into the trough of the sea, and rises again upon the billow, proudly, like a sea-bird,
shaking off the foam, every breast expands, and the man at the wheel, steering her dry-
decked almost over the crest of the wave, feels like a conqueror. And it is very won-
derful the sense of security that exists in a severe gale among the crew of a staunch,
tight-built vessel, with a captain in whom they have confidence, and a ship made snug
to fight her battle bravely, without let or hindrance. — Aberdeen Weekly Free Press.
THE HISTORY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE, in the form of a handsome
volume of 463 pages, printed in clear bold type (old style), on thick toned paper, Rox-
burgh binding, gilt top, is now ready. A very limited number of unsubscribed copies
remain. In addition to the general history of the Clan, full notices and complete genea-
logies of the following families are given in the order in which they branched off from
the main stem of Kintail and Seaforth : — Allangrange, Dundonnell, Hilton, Glack,
Loggie, Gairloeh, Belmaduthy, Pitlundie, Culbo, Flowerburn, Letterewe, Portmore,
Mountgerald, Lochend, Davochmaluag, Achilty, Ardross, Fairburn, Kilchrist, Suddie,
Ord, Highfleld, Kedcastle, Kincraie', Cromarty, Ardloch, Scatwell, Ballone, Kilcoy,
Castle Fraser, Glenbervie, Applecross, Coul, Torridon, Delvine, and Gruinard.
400
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
HOBO CHA BHI MI GA D' CHAOIDH NI'S MO.
In moderate time.
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'S na'm faigbinn do lit - ir gu'n ruiginn thu nunn.
Key B Flat.
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:-.d :t, I 1, :-
'3 'n uair rainig mi 'n cladach bLa m'nigne fo phramh
A' cumba na maighdinn is caoimhueile gradh,
'S 'n uair ghabh mi mo chead di air f easgar Di' mairt,
Gu'n deacb' mi 'n tigh-osda a dh-ol a deocb-slaint'.
'S e so an treas turas dhomb fhein a bbi falbb,
A db-ionnsaidb na luinge, le sgiobair gun cbearb,
Le comblan math ghillean Bach tilleadh roimh atoirm ;
'S na'm biodh agam botal gu'n cosdainn sud oirbb !
Ged theid mi 'n bhal-dannsaidh, cha bhi sannt agam dha,
Cha 'n fhaic mi te anu a ni samhladh do m' ghradh ;
'N uair dhireas mi 'n gleann, bidh mi sealltainn an aird,
Ki dutbaich nan beann, 's a feheil m' annsachd a' tamh.
. Mar dhealbha na peucaig, tha'n te tha mi sealg,
'S 'n uair chi mi an te sin tha m' eibhneas air falbh j
Mar ros air a' mheangan, tha 'n ainnir 'n a dealbh
'S ged sgaineadh mo chridhe, cha'n innis mi h ainm.
NOTE.— The above song was sung at the last annual assembly of the Gaelic Society
of Inverness by Mr Donald Graham, Oban, the well-known Gaelic vocalist. Neither the
air nor the words appear to be generally known in the North, but in the South-West
Highlands both are deservedly very popular. W. M'K.
THE
CELTIC MAGAZINE.
No. XL VII. . SEPTEMBEE, 1879. VOL. IV.
MOENING IN THE HIGHLANDS.
No. L— THE CALEDONIAN CANAL-1872.
WHAT a monument of honest work, what a picture still of massive
strength, is General Wade's fine old bridge which spans the Tay at Aber-
feldy. For more than a century and a half it has withstood the fury of
many an angry spate in the swollen, raging river ; as with ordinary care
from the road trustees it is safe to do for a century to come. Standing
the other morning on the steep pinnacled" ridge of this historic landmark,
one of many planted between the grave of the system of clanship and the
cradle of modern reform, I fell into a reverie of the past. As in a dream
the features of the surrounding landscape were changed and wholly trans-
formed. The thin curling locks of snow-white mist wreathing the brow
of Drummond hill, the dark firs clothing the grey rock of Dull, in sharp
contrast with the masses of virgin green and white around the manse be-
low, the bosky ridge sheltering from the north the kirk of Weem, and
embowering the hoary turrets of Castle Menzies — these had all either
passed entirely away or become strangely mingled and distorted into the
frowning background of a wild scene of rapine and woe, or rather of a
confused procession of such scenes: lawless, warring clans; wild, unkempt
cattle reyers ; blackened rafters ; foul, insanitary hamlets, famished and
smallpox stricken ; shaggy little horses, curiously yoked to wooden-axled
cartlets of wicker-work, called lobans ; anxious, red-eyed women, with
hungry, half-naked children wallowing around, making a faint, sore-
hearted effort to be jolly, as songless they milked the lean-ribbed cows,
already bled for food. These and a hundred more dissolving views of
human woe and wrong, and wild revenge, and stark starvation, chased
each other in my day-dream through a frowning landscape of barren, ey-
ried crags, boiling cataracts, yawning, unbridged torrents, and scanty
patches of miserable attempts at agriculture.
But anon the scene was changed. And straightway there came a
sober procession of fattened beeves, well-laden coup-carts wending their
way to the busy mill, decent companies of cleanly, comfortable men and
women, clothed and in their right mind, walking together in peace to the
house of God, and bright companies of healthy, well-clad children, with
many a romp and much horse-play, scampering away to school. And far
as this fair procession stretched along massive bridges and solid well-bot-
i 2
402 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
»- — _ — ,
tomod roads, methouglit I saw the spectre of the old schoolmaster, who
in 1702 was stoned out of their bounds by the wild Highlanders of Aber-
tarff, standing on a rocky promontory, and murmuring complacently to
the passers by : " If you saw this road before that it was made-, you would
lift up your hands and bless General Wade."
Not all unlike this, perhaps, may be the reverie of some silent travel-
ler, lonely amid the brilliant crowds thronging the magnificent floating
palaces of Mr Macbrayne on the Caledonian Canal, as daily more than
fulfilling the wild prophecy of the Wizard of Brahan they scale the steps
of Neptune's Staircase at Banavie, and sail through the grand scenery of
the Great Glen of Scotland from the Atlantic to the German Ocean. To
the thousands of thoughtful passengers by these luxurious floating hostel-
ries, not less than to the ordinary readers of the Celtic Magazine, some
notes of " this road " too " before that it> was made " may at this time be
not unseasonable.
Whether the honour of being the General Wade of the Caledonian
Canal belongs to James Watt, whose survey in 1773 at the instance of
the Government first showed the practicability of the work, or to Telford,
who actually commenced in 1803 the grand enterprise which was com-
pleted in 1823, I shall not here attempt to decide. Let both be held in
everlasting remembrance by the Highlander, and if they have lineal de-
scendants, let Mr Macbrayne send forthwith to the head of each house, a
perennial free season-ticket for the " royal route."
What I at present purpose is to present the readers of the Celtic Maga-
zine with a brief resum6 of two papers, published in the first volume of
the Transactions of the Highland Society, to which more perhaps than to
arfy other advocacy we owe the Caledonian Canal. The first of these
papers is in the form of a " Letter from a Freeholder of Inverness-shire
to Lord Adam Gordon," dated 15th March 1792. The second is entitled
" On the Practicability and Advantages of opening a Navigation between
the Murray Frith at Inverness and Loch Eil at Fort- William, by the Kev.
James Headrick," the editor and general literary factotum, or wet nurse,
qf the infant Highland Society.
The author of the former paper thus opens his case : " The North
Highlands of Scotland have for several years past been considered as an
object of importance to Government ; and have since that period proved
an useful nursery of his Majesty's army." He then points, as " the first step
towards the civilization" of the Highlands, to the recent formation of roads
at the expense of the Government, which " had in some degree opened an
easy intercourse between the inhabitants thereof and those of the south,
and removed the prejudices which formerly narrowed their minds, and
fascinated them to clannish predilections and subordination."
But with all its ultimate benefits to the Highlands, this improvement
threatened at first to prove disastrous to the Highlander. It brought into
the country from the south men who saw at a glance, and soon proved to
their own great profit, that it was well fitted for sheep farming. To the
old Highlander who fought the battles of the Stuarts the poor sheep was
an object of the utmost contempt. The only industry worthy of men of
his descent and spirit was cattle rearing, and even to this was much to be
preferred the gentlemanly indasfcy of " lifting " cattle already reared to
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 403
his hand by some rival sept or cla#, or by the lowland carls of Moray,
Buchan, or Strathmore. The Highlanders " had such an inherent preju-
dice against sheep that the few kept by them were left solely to the
charge of the women, and in every matrimonial bargain they were allotted
as an appendix to the widow's division of the effects." (Highland Society
Transactions, vol. i. p. 346.) But the southern invaders everywhere in-
troduced their frugal, prolific flocks, paying the landed proprietors much
larger rents than the native cattle rearers could pay, till, by general con-
fession, it was discovered that " sheep can be reared with less expense,
are much more productive, and more capable of enduring the severity of
the climate, than black cattle." To most of the native farmers, however,
this discovery came too late, for, ousted from their ancestral farms, they
had already in large numbers emigrated to North Carolina and other
American settlements.
Another unavoidable consequence of opening up the country is
thus set forth by the Freeholder of Inverness-shire : — " The natives
now feel wants and -inconveniences which formerly gave them no uneasi-
ness, and it has in some measure diminished their local attachments ; and
if some mode is not adopted for enabling them to procure more readily in
their own country the necessaries and conveniences of life, the natives are
left in a more deplorable situation than before the commencement of the
improvements. For though the produce of their own country supplied
their wants when these were few and simple, and when their great leaders
placed a higher value on a number of dependants than on the extent of a
rent-roll, yet now that their great men have relinquished those ideas, and
find it their interest to enlarge farms and to let the same under a sheep
stock, it is obvious that if something is not done for their relief the small
tenants will be under the necessity of abandoning their native country.
In vain will any restrictions which may be imposed, either by the legisla-
tive body or private societies, remedy the growing evii of emigration.
Mankind cannot, with aay degree of justice, be compelled to reside in a
country where their wants cannot be supplied, merely because it has been
inhabited by their ancestors." (Ibid., p. 345.)
"Besides," adds this writer, the opening up of the country "has
taught the lowest rank their own importance, and on that account led
them to raise their wages to such a degree that few could employ them in
Highland counties for the cultivation of the soil, and though it will be to
no purpose to attempt to bring the natives back to their former system,
yet it would be political wisdom to take advantage of this change of man-
ners and allure the small tenantry, by a sense of their own interests, to re-
main at home and not to emigrate to foreign countries." This desired end
could, he thought, be effected by supplying them easily with the means
of a more improved husbandry, and by establishing manufactories in the
Highlands ; and as the opening of a navigable canal through the great
glen "must promote these particulars," he advocated it as an object
highly worthy of the attention of landholders, and even of the Govern-
ment, as it must necessarily increase the rentals of the one and the revenue
of the other, while retaining to the nation a number of useful hands who
otherwise must emigrate. (Ibid., p. 347.) The practicability of the un-
dertaking [had already been decided by persons of ^eat experience in
404 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
such matters, and was indeed self-evident, for the levels were favoiirable,
and of the fifty-nine miles to which the canal would extend, three-
fourths were already formed by navigable lakes. The expense would be
" but a mite to the Government of this country in the present flourishing
state of its revenue," and " money laid out within the nation in its own
internal improvement must necessarily revert to itself." The benefits of
the Canal were obvious. It would save the large number of vessels and
seamen that were annually lost in sailing round the Pentland Firth and
the Northern Ceast of Scotland, and " great commercial advantage must
result from it in the event of a war wHth any of our northern neighbours."
As to file beneficial effects of the Oanal on husbandry, there were " thou-
sands of acres contiguous to ft at present waste, that woidd yield rich re-
turns if employed in husbandry, provided the means of improvement could
be procured at a moderate expense." Again, " there is hardly any wood
in the inland parts of the district, and the little that grows on the banks
of the lakes is generally cut down before it comes to maturity." The
landowners had no encouragement to plant, " though the capacity of the
soil to raise timber of any magnitude is obvious from the large trunks of
firs and oaks found in the mosses," because, having only land carriage to
market, they could be undersold by imported wood from Riga. If a canal
were opened, the proprietors would have a powerful inducement to plant,
and, in the meantime, the natives would be supplied at a moderate ex-
pense from abroad. Moreover, " it must have been noticed by every tra-
veller that the covering of the houses in this district is mean and despi-
cable, and occiipies a great part of the labour of the inhabitants to keep
the same ki repair," but the canal, by briuging slates from the west and
lime from the south would, in a short time, enable the tenants to have
commodious and permanent habitations. Coals could also be imported
to supply the place of the " exhausted mosses," " the vast quantities of
shells on the western shores " would be invaluable as manure, in course of
time lime quarries would be worked both for use in the district and for
exportation, useful manufactories would spring up along the canal, and
proper implements of husbandry, now impossible to be got or kept in re-
pair for want of artificers, would then be available. " The introduction
of sheep-grazings, though at first it threatened to depopulate the country,
has brought along with it this beneficial change in the sentiments of the
natives, that it has reconciled them to labour, which they formerly reck-
oned unworthy of men of their descent and spirit : and the late instance
wherein Mr Dale of Glasgow displayed great benevolence and humanity,
demonstrates that the Highlanders when properly directed can be usefully
employed in any branch of manufacture." If they could have such em-
ployment among their relations at home they would doubtless prefer it to
" wandering abroad in search of new settlements." " The vast multitude
of sheep" might thus become a blessing to the Highlander, by furnishing
wool for countless busy factories, and " great quantities of flax could be
raised in parts contiguous to the canal." The necessaries of life would
also be procured at a cheap rate by opening a free access to "the fisli of
the western coast, and to the victual on the eastern coast of Scotland."
" I must be p^-mitted further to observe," continues this writer, " that, as
the Author of Mature has made nothing in vain, it is probable many of
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 405
the hills contiguous to the proposed canal may contain hidden treasures
that, if discovered, would prove a new source of national wealth ; and
from the state of the loch and river of Ness never being liable to freeze, it
seems to indicate that they flow on minerals of a mild temperature'' This
last statement almost matches the wonderful testimony of Mr Headrick,
the author of the second paper, in regard to the vast accumulations of
shell-marl which could be utilized by means of the canal. " The animals
which produce this substance are very prolific ; and many species of them
seem not to live longer than one season. I have opened many bivalves
of this class of animals in autumn, and often found five or six young
shell-fishes, perfectly formed, included within their parent. When winter
approaches, these animals retire to the deepest part of the pool, out of the
reach of frost. "When the warm season returns, the young animals con-
tinue to grow till they force open the shell of their mother. It would
therefore seem that these animals perish in the act of producing their
young!" p. 380.
The Freeholder of Inverness-shire thus sums up the argument of his
Letter to Lord Adam Gordon : the opening of the canal would promote
agriculture and manufactures, considerably advance the rents of the land-
holders, increase the revenue of the State, and be " a total check to the
progress of emigration."
Turn we now to the Essay on the same subject by MB Headrick, This
gentleman, it may be well to observe in the outset, is fiothfng if not prac-
tical and rigidly scientific. He is especially scientific on the subject of
limestone, which occupies seven pages of his Essay, including two pages of
a tabular analysis of various specimens of limestone taken from the lands
of " Sir James Grant of Urquhart, Captain Eraser of Fyars, and Mr Mac-
donnel of Glengarry." It is carefully stated tfeat these analyses were made
according to " an easy plan of analysing calcareous substances " which Mr
Headrick himself had discovered, and which was given to the world in his
Essay on Manures, published by the Board of Agriculture. He is also
profoundly technical on " the salt called Sulphate of Iron, vulgarly Cop-
peras" and recommends the erection of works for the manufacture of this
substance at Drumnadrochit, where is " a vast store of excellent materials"
for such a work.
On the subject of Iron ores, some of his observations will bear quota-
tion, and the proprietors of the lands indicated might find their interest
in verifying his references. " Very pure and rich ironstone appears
among the rocks behind Polmaily. What I saw is very porous and cel-
lular, hence has not much specific gravity. This ironstone has been
wrought to a considerable extent at some remote period, though I could
not find that the people have preserved any knowledge of the fact, even
in tradition. The adjoining moors are full of the refuse of old iron fur-
naces. These exhibit a specimen of the first and rudest attempts to con-
vert ironstone into its metallic form. The smelting of iron is so far from
being an obvious process, and is attended with so much difficulty, that
wherever it is practised we are always led to infer a very advanced state
of the arts. Gold, silver, copper, lead, and other metals, were discovered and
applied to use long before iron was known. But a warlike race, like the
ancient Highlanders, as soon as they acquired any knowledge of this art,
406 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
would practise it in the way their circumstances admitted, for the con-
struction of their military weapons, while other arts were either unknown
or in a state of infancy. For the first use men make of iron, the most
valuable of all the metals, and the greatest gift of a beneficent providence,
is to destroy each other." A careful examination of this ancient Gart-
sherrie of our Highland forefathers led Mr Headrick to the following con-
clusions as to the processes they followed. " The furnaces seem to have
baen composed of a pipe of wrought clay, with perhaps a building of loose
stones on the outside. They were always on high and exposed situations,
that the heat might be increased by a strong current of air blowing into
the apertures at the bottom of the furnace. Charcoal of wood was used
for fuel. Previous roasting of the stone does not seem to have been ne-
cessary, as what they used contains little or no sulphur. The fuel and the
stone, in small particles, being placed in the pipe in alternate layers until
the whole was filled, fire was applied below. What melted and dropped
to the bottom being occasionally taken out and hammered, was soon formed
into malleable iron or steel. But in this way they seem only to have ex-
tracted, as it were, the cream from their stone ; for they have left vast
quantities of refuse which, with more efficient means of working, would
yield a krge proportion of excellent iron." He also found " striking
symptoms of iron west of the ancient Castle of Urquhart," at Foyers,
and in various parts of the Foyers ridge of hills. At Abeitarff. he found
" a vein of very rich ironstone, which discovers no sensible proportion of
sulphur in its composition. Mr Raspe pronounced this place destined to
become a second Birmingham."
On the subject of the TisJieries Mr Headrick is careful to say that,
having no practical knowledge of that important branch of trade, he offers
only such information as he has been able to " collect from intelligent
professional men." He has, however, not a little to say on this subject
which, apart from its bearing on the proposed canal, is still, written as it
was almost a century ago, of considerable interest. " Might not herrings
and all the most delicious fishes which these seas produce be conveyed to
market in a fresh state packed in ice or snow ? At the base of Mam-
soul, a high mountain in the western parts of Inverness-shire, there is a
lake that is generally covered with ice, and seldom thaws during the life-
time of the oldest man. This lake is very near the great fishery, and it
would be easy to make a road to it, so that it might be got to preserve
herrings and other fishes at all seasons of the year." " One acre of sea,
if properly cultivated and improved, is worth many thousands of the con-
tiguous land ; but happily the land affords the means of sending the pro-
duets of the sea to very distant markets in their freshest and most delici-
ous state." " A few swift-sailing vessels, like the Berwick smacks, would
be sufficient to convey the fresh herrings to London, Dublin, and all the
great towns of Britain and Ireland." Let the reader remember that it was
not till 1807, several years after Mr Headrick wrote his essay, that Fulton
constructed his fir^; serviceable steamboat, and that to the essayist a Ber-
wick smack was the perfection of swift-sailing vessels. Had he then the
second-sight ? and, while labouring unconsciously to realize the dream of
the old Seer of Brahan by sailing a ship through the Great Glen of Scot-
land, was ho himself, with the supposed gift of old Coinneach Odhar, see-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 407
ing afar off the triumphs of steam and the refrigerator in carrying to our
markets the choicest products of the American stock farms ?
The student of Highland history, who would watch narrowly the
movements of that sharp social transition by which OUB people passed at
once from the tutelage and dependence of clanship to the fullest enjoy-
ment of personal liberty, but with personal liberty to the necessity of man-
aging their own affairs and providing for their personal and family wants,
should carefully study these two papers which I have thus creamed for
the general reader. He will find in them much curious information as to
the social and physical state of the Great Glen of Albyn, through which
it was proposed to carry the canal. But he will find also not a littte that
is fitted to throw light on the general state of the Highlands towards the
close of the last century.
He will find, for instance, that early Highland Emigration was not at
all the thing of cruel compulsion which it is usually supposed to be. On
the contrary, he will see that the early emigrations of the Highlander
were deeply regretted, as a " harrying of the land," and were indeed
strenuously opposed, by the class which at a later period became un-
doubtedly the urgent and interested promoters of expatriation. For the
early emigrants were men of position and substance : gentlemen farmers,
tacksmen and middlemen, each the natural protector, as he was also the
legal sponsor, and in most cases the near kinsman, of hundreds of sub-
tenants. "With these teeming thousands of helpless dependent sub-ten-
ants, who were thus left behind, the alien sheep-farmer had nothing in
common. Bereaved of their natural protectors, unaccustomed to think
and act for themselves, unused to toil, destitute alike of capital and ex-
perience, they were left in the position of squatters or crofters, forced
against his will and their own to deal directly with the great landlord —
a condition which was no less unwelcome to them thai; to him, as it was a
most irksome burden and a loss of rent which, in tlie altered spirit of the
times, he too often grudged and resented. Need we wonder that, as a
class, they soon felt the pressure of the inevitable, and that ere long mul-
titudes of them were driven by compulsion into an exile which their old
protectors had already, for their own supposed advantage, chosen freely
for themselves. The wheels of rapid, inexorable transition were every-
where crushing heavily through old Highland customs and institutions.
"What could the poor anachronous sub-tenants do1? The traditional three
courses were open to them. With steady eye and agile spring they might
leap into the galloping car and advance with the times ; they might get
out of the way and let the inevitable take its headlong course ; or, they
might lie or stand or brawl on the track, and be crushed to powder. Not
a few, to the credit of their agility, vaulted into the car, and to their in-
finitely greater credit, helped to guide its progress to some benevolent,
patriotic purpose ; many, stupid, helpless, or defiant, stood their ground
and went down beneath the wheels of the Jaggernaut ; and many more,
with the wail of Maccrimmon's Lament, went down to the white ship in
the offing, and their descendants are to-day the playmates and the body-
guard of a young Hercules among the nations. Without doubt this last
emigration was compulsory ; but whether compelled by famine or by the
factor 't were idle now very closely to inquire.
408 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
As to the Canal itself, the event showed that in every way the calcula-
tions of its promoters were tremendously at fault. Instead of the mere
" mite " of the Freeholder of Inverness-shire, the expense of opening the
Canal almost touched a million sterling.
But for two elements of success, which seem to have never once en-
tered the heads of its promoters, this great National Undertaking must,
in all probability, have by this time shared the fate of the first Suez
Canal. These two elements are steam navigation and the development of
the tourist traffic. Through the narrow funnel of the Great Glen, where,
however the wind blows on the mountains, you can never have but either
a wind dead ahead, or one full astern, it is evident that a sailing vessel
could never make her way with any approach to regularity. This was
from the first urged as a fatal objection to the canal, and experience shows
that it was well founded. And as to the wondrous tourist traffic, born of
the inspiration of Sir "Walter Scott, and so right royally ministered to by
Burns, and Hutcheson, and now by Macbrayne, the promoters of the
Canal do not appear to have even once dreamt of it.
Mr Headrick was a man of broad and varied culture. He had con-
siderable literary aptitude, dabbled largely in science, knew something of
the soul of poetry, and must have more than once- gone carefully over
every step of that paradise of tourists, the Great Glen of Albyn ; and yet,
for anything that concerns the thousand inspiring lights and shades, and
the multitudinous, ever-varying, ever-opening aspects of this divine un-
folding of glorious scenery, — towering peak and lowly lovely dell, rushing
cataract, calm mirror-like bosom of the crag-girt lake, sweet wimpling
fountain, hill and dale and wooded gorge, — he might just as well have all
the time been pottering among the slag heaps of the Black Country, or
plying his level and cross- stick among the canals and dykes of Dutcliland.
Finis coronat opus. The Caledonian Canal is made. Ask no ques-
tions how or why. Whether it came of Boeotian blunder, or pragmatic
politico-economical heresy, or of the wicked self-seeking "commercial
spirit," hated with lusty Johnsonian hatred by our own revered and
well-beloved Blackie, — however it came, the thing is there; and
big though it be, to a thousand tuneful souls it is a joy for ever.
"Where is the poet, English, American, German, who has not sung its
praise ? Where the gentle quiet heart, which having been permitted at
last to pass through the Great Glen of Albyn, has not sat down in secret
to sing, " Now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace ?"
Long be it so ! And increasingly evermore may the happy and
prosperous descendants in America and far Australia of the old High-
land fathers, to alleviate whose hardships the Caledonian Canal was
projected, come here from afar, and from its now classic banks, drink
this spiritual refreshment and eat this spiritual manna, the failure of
which in the material form of daily bread sent forth the pilgrim fathers
of Strathnaver and Breadalbane, and Skye and Kintail, and lonely
Uist, to seek new homes for the Gael in a land which they knew not.
DONALD MASSON.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 409
HISTOEY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE.
BY THE EDITOR.
[CONTINUED.]
THE MACKENZIES OF GAIRLOCH.
VI. KENNETH MACKENZIE, a strong loyalist during the wars of Montrosc
and the Covenanters. He was fined by the Committee of Estates for his
adherence to the King, under the Act of 3d February 1646, entitled
" Commission for the moneys of Excise and Processe against delinquents."
The penalty was a forced loan of 500 merks, for which the receipt, dated
15th March 1647, signed by Kennedy, Earl of Cassilis, and Sir William
Cochrane, two of the Commissioners named in the Act, and by two or
three others, is still extant. Seaforth was, at the time, one of the Com-
mittee of Estates, where probably his influence was exercised in favour of
leniency to the Baron of Gairloch : especially as he was himself privately
imbued with strong predelictions in favour of the Royalista Kenneth
commanded a body of Highlanders at Balvenny under Thomas Mackenzie
of Pluscardine, and his own brother-in-law, the Earl of Huntly ; but
when the Eoyalist army was surprised and disarmed, he happened to be
on a visit to Castle Grant and managed to escape.
In 1640 he completed the acquisition of Logic "Wester, commenced
by his predecessor, but not without having had recourse to the money
market. He granted a bond for 1000 merks, dated 20th of October 1644,
to Hector Mackenzie, alias Maclan MacAlastair Mhic Alastair, indweller
in Eaclill-fuill. On the 14th of January 1649, at Kirkton, he granted to
the same person a bond for 500 merks ; but at this date Hector was de-
scribed as " indweller in Androry," and, again, another dated at Stank-
house of Gairloch (Tigh Dige), 24th of November 1662 ; but the lender
is on this occasion described as living in Diobaig. For the two first of
these sums Murdo Mackenzie of Sand, his brother-german, was collateral
security.
In 1657 Kenneth was collateral security to a bond granted by his
brother, Murdoch Mackenzie of Sand, to Colin Mackenzie, I. of Sanachan,
brother-german to John Mackenzie, II. of Applecross, for 2000 merks,
borrowed on the 20th March of that year ; the one-half of which was to
be paid by the delivery at the feast of Beltane, 1658, of 50 cows in milk
by calves of that year, and the other half, with legal interest, at Whit-
sunday 1659. Colin Mackenzie, I. of Sanachan, married Murdoch's
daughter, and the contract of marriage is dated the same day as the bond,
and subscribed at Dingwall by the same witnesses.
From a discharge by Kenneth Mackenzie of Assynt, dated 17th Nov-
ember 1648, Kenneth of Gairloch appears to have been cautioner for
George, Earl of Seaforth, in a bond granted by him for a loan of 5000
merks.
In 1658, by letters of Tutorie Dative from Oliver Cromwell, he was
appointed Tutor to Hector Mackenzie, lawful son of Alexander Mackenzie
lawful son of Duncan Mackenzie of Sand, Gairloch. There is nothing
410 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
further to show what became of the pupil, but it is highly probable that
on the death of Alexander, son of Duncan of Sand, the farm was given
by Kenneth to his brother, Murdoch, and that the 2000 merks, borrowed
from Colin Mackenzie of Sanachan, who married Murdoch's only daugh-
ter, Margaret, may have been borrowed for the purpose of stocking the
farm. The dates of the marriage, of the bond, and of the Tutorie Dative,
so near each other, strongly support this view.
Kenneth of Gairloch married, first, Katharine, daughter of Sir Donald
Macdonald of Sleat, without issue. The contract of marriage is dated 5th
September 1635, the marriage portion being "6000 merks and her en-
dowment 1000 libs. Scots yearly." In 1640 he married, secondly, Ann,
daughter of Sir John Grant of Grant, by Ann Ogilvy, daughter of the
Earl of Findlater. There is a charter by Kenneth in her favour of the
lands of Logie Wester, the miln and pertinents thereof, with the grazings
of Tolly, in implement of the marriage contract, dated 4th of December
1640, with a sasine of the same date, and another charter of the lands
and manor-place of Kinkell and Ardnagrask, dated the 15th August 1655,
with sasine thereon, dated 5th September following. By her he had —
1. Alexander, his heir.
2. Hector of Bishop-Kinkell, who married Mackenzie of Fairburn's
widow, and with her obtained the lands of Bishop-KinkelL
3. John, who died unmarried.
4. Mary, who married Alexander Mackenzie, younger of Kilcoy.
5. Barbara, married, first, Fraser of Kinneries, and secondly, Alex-
ander Mackenzie, I. of Ardloch, by both of whom she had issue.
6. Lilias, married Alexander Mackenzie, I. of Ballone, by whom she
had an only daughter, Margaret, who married, first, Sir Eoderick Mac-
kenzie of Findon, with issue, and secondly, George Mackenzie, II. of
Gruinard.
He married, thirdly, Janet, daughter of John Cuthbert of Castlehill ;
marriage contract dated 17th December 1658 ; the marriage portion being
3000 merks, and her endowment 5 chalders victual yearly, with issue.
7. Charles, I. of Letterewe, who, by his father's marriage contract,
got Logie Wester, purchased by Kenneth in 1640. In 1696 it was ex-
changed by Charles, with his eldest half-brother, Alexander, VII. of Gair-
loch, for Letterewe. Charles married Ann, daughter of John Mackenzie,
II. of Applecross, with issue.
8. Kenneth, died unmarried.
9. Colin, I. of Mountgerald.
10. Isabella, married Eoderick Mackenzie, brother of John Mackenzie,
II. of Applecross, and
11. Annabella, married George Mackenzie, a younger brother of
Davochmaluag.
According to the retour of service of his successor, Kenneth died in
1669, was buried in Beauly, and succeeded by his eldest son,
VII. ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, who, by a charter of resignation, got
Logie Wester included in the barony of Gairloch. It had, however, been
settled on his step-mother, Janet Cuthbert, in life-rent, and after her on
her eldest son, Charles, to whom, after her death, Alexander formally
disponed it. They afterwards entered into an excambion by which
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 411
Alexander re-acquired Logie "Wester in exchange for Letterewe, which
became the patrimony of the successors of Charles.
In 1671 Alexander acquired Mellan Charles, and the second half of
the water of Ewe.*
A tradition is current in the family that when Alexander sought the
hand of his future lady, Barbara, daughter of Sir John Mackenzie of
Tarbat, and sister german to the first Earl of Cromarty, and to Isobel,
Countess of Seaforth, he endeavoured to make himself appear much
wealthier than he really was, by returning a higher rental than he actu-
ally received, at the time of making up the Scots valued rent in 1670, in
which year he married. This tradition is corroborated by a comparison
of the valuation of the shire of Inverness for 1644, published by Mr
Charles Eraser- Mackintosh, F.S.A.S., in "Antiquarian Notes," and the
rental of 1670, on which the ecclesiastical assessments are still based.
In the former year the rental of the Parish of Gairloch was £3134 13s
4d, of which £1081 6s 8d was from the lands of the Barony, equal to
34£ per cent.; while in the latter year the valued rental of the parish is
put down at £3400, of which £1549 is from the Barony lands, or 45£
per cent. It is impossible that such a rise in the rental could have taken
place in the short space of twenty-six years ; and the presumption is in
favour of the truthfulness of the tradition which holds that the rental
was over-valued for the special purpose of making the Baron of Gairloch
appear more important in the eyes of his future relatives-in-law than he
really was. In 1681 he had his rights and titles ratified by an Act of
Parliament, printed at length in the Folio edition.
He married, first, Barbara Mackenzie of Tarbat, with issue —
1. Kenneth, his heir.
2. Isobel, who married John Macdonald of Balcony, brother to Sir
Donald Macdonald.
He married, secondly, Janet, daughter of "William Mackenzie, I. of
Belmaduthy, on which occasion Davochcairn and Ardnagrask were settled
upon her in life-rent, and on her eldest son at her death, as appears from
a precept of Clare Constat, by Colin Mackenzie of Davochpollo, in favour
of "William, his eldest surviving son. By her he had —
3. Alexander, who died unmarried.
4. William, who got the lands of Davochcairn, and married, in 1712,
Jean, daughter of Eoderick Mackenzie, V. of Eedcastle, with issue, one
* Regarding this place there is the following reference in the records of the Presbytery
of Dingwall, under date, 6th of August 1678:— "That day Mr Roderick Mackenzie,
minister at Gerloch by his letter to the Presbytery declared that he had summonded by
his officer to this Presbytery, Hector McKenzie in Mellan in the Parish of Gerloch, as
also John, Murdoch, and Duncan McKenzie, sons to the said Hector, as also, Kenneth
McKenzie his grandson, for sacrificing a bull in ane heathenish manner in the Island
of St Ruffus, commonly called 'Ellen Moury, in Lochew,' for the recovering of the
health of Curstane McKenzie, spouse to the said Hector McKenzie, who was formerly
sick and valetudinarie ; who being all cited, an not compearing, are to be all summonded
again pro 2d." The case was called against them again on the third of the following
September, but they never appeared, and the matter was allowed to drop. The island
of St Ruffus is evidently Isle Maree, Lochmaree, being then designated Lochewe, as
Kenlochewe and Letterewe unmistakeably testify. The name Loch Maree must, how-
ever, have also been known then, for in a charter under the Great Seal to John Mac-
kenzie of Gairloch and his son Alexander, dated 26th of August 1619, it is called " Loch
Maroy."
412 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
son, Alexander, of the Stamp Office, London; and several daughters.
Alexander has a Clare Constat as only son in 1732. He died in 1772,
leaving a son, Alexander Kenneth, who emigrated to New South Wales,
where many of his descendants now reside; the representative of the
family, in 1878, being Alexander Kenneth Mackenzie, Boonara, Bondi,
Sydney.
5. John, who purchased the lands of Lochend (now Inverewe), with
issue — Alexander Mackenzie, afterwards of Lochend; and George, an
officer in Colonel Murray Keith's Highland Regiment ; also two daugh-
ters, Lilias, who married William Mackenzie, IV. of Gruinard, and
Christy, married to William Maciver, Turnaig, both with issue.
6. Ann, who married Kenneth Mackenzie, II. of Torridon, with issue.
She married, secondly, Kenneth Mackenzie, a solicitor in London.
He died in December 1694, at 42 years of age; for in his general
retour of sasine, 25th February 1673, he is said to be then of lawful age.
He was buried in Gairloch, and succeeded by his only son by the first
marriage,
VIII. SIR KENNETH MACKENZIE, created a Baronet of Nova Scotia,
by Queen Anne, on the 2d of February 1703. He was educated at Ox-
ford, and afterwards represented his native county in the Scottish Parlia-
ment. He strongly opposed the Union, considering it, if it should take
place, "the funeral of his country." After the succession of Queen
Anne he received from her, in December 1702, a gift of the taxed ward
feu-duties, non-entry and marriage dues, and other casualties, payable
from the date of his father's death, which, up to 1 702, appear not to
have been paid. Early in the same year he seems to have been taken
seriously unwell, whereupon he executed a holograph testament at Stank-
house, dated 23d May 1702, witnessed by his uncle, Colin Mackenzie
of Fin don, and by his brother-in-law, Simon Mackenzie of Allangrange.
He appoints as trustees his " dear friends " John, Master of Tarbat, Ken-
neth Mackenzie of Cromarty, Kenneth Mackenzie of Scatwell, Hector
Mackenzie, and Colin Mackenzie, his uncles, and George Mackenzie of
Allangrange. He appointed Colin Mackenzie, then of Findon, and after-
wards of DavochpoUo and Mountgerald, as his Tutor and factor at a
salary of 200 merks Scots. In the following May, having apparently to
some extent recovered his health, he appeared in his place in Parliament.
By September following he returned to Stankhouse, where he executed
two bonds of provision, one for his second son George, and the other for
his younger daughters.
He married, in 1696, Margaret, youngest daughter, and, as is com-
monly said, co-heiress of Sir Roderick Mackenzie of Findon, but the
Barony of Findon went wholly to Lilias the eldest daughter, who married
Sir Kenneth Mackenzie, 1st Baronet and IV. of Scatwell; another of the
daughters married Simon Mackenzie of Allangrange. There was a fourth
unmarried at the date of Margaret's contract of marriage ; and the four
took a fourth part each of Sir Roderick's moveables and of certain lands
not included in the Barony. At the date of his marriage Kenneth had
not made up titles ; but by his marriage contract he is taken bound to do
so as soon as he can ; his retour of service was taken out the following
year.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 413
By his marriage he had —
1. Alexander, his heir.
2. George, who became a merchant in Glasgow.
3. Barbara, married, in 1729, George Beattie, a merchant in Mon-
trose.
4. Margaret, who died in 1704.
5. Anne, who married, in 1728, Murdo Mackenzie, yr. of Achilty.
6. Katharine, who died young.
Sir Kenneth also had a natural daughter, Margaret, who married, in
1723, Donald Macdonald, younger of Cuidreach. Sir Kenneth's widow,
about a year after his decease, married Bayne of Tulloch. Notwith-
standing the money Sir Kenneth received with her, he died deeply in-
volved in debt, and left his children without proper provision. George
and Barbara were at first maintained by their mother, and afterwards by
Colin of Findon, who married their grandmother, relict of Sir Roderick
Mackenzie of Findon, while Alexander and Anne were in a worse plight.
He died in December 1703, only 32 years of age; was buried in
Gairloch, and succeeded by his eldest son,
IX. SIB ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, the second Baronet, a child only
three and a-half years of age. His prospects were by no means enviable ;
he and his sister Anne for a time, having had, for actual want of means,
to be " settled in tenants' houses." The rental of Gairloch and Glasletter
at his father's death amounted only to 5954 merks, and his other estates
in the low country were settled on Sir Kenneth's widow for life ; while
he was left with debts amounting to 66,674 merks, or eleven years' rental
of the whole estates. During Sir Alexander's minority, the large sum of
51,200 merks had been paid off, in addition to 27,635 in name of interest
on the original debt ; and thus very little was left for the young Baronet's
education. In 1708 he, his brother, and sisters were taken to the factor's
house — Colin Mackenzie of Findon — where they remained for four years,
and received the rudiments of their education from a young man, Simon
Urquhart. In 1712 they all went to school at Chanonry, under Urqu-
hart's charge, where Sir Alexander remained for six years, after which,
being then 18 years of age, he went to Edinburgh to complete his educa-
tion. He afterwards made a tour of travel, and returning home in 1730
married his cousin, Janet of Scatwell, on which occasion a fine Gaelic
poem was composed in her praise by John Mackay, the famous blind
piper and poet of Gairloch, whose daughter became the mother of William
Eoss, a bard even more celebrated than the blind piper himself. If we
believe the bard the lady possessed all the virtues of mind and body ;
but in spite of all these advantages the marriage did not continue a happy
one; for, in 1758, they separated on the grounds of incompatibility of
temper ; after which she lived alone at Kinkell.
When, in 1721, Sir Alexander came of age, he was compelled to pro-
cure means to pay the provision payable to his brother George and to his
sisters, amounting altogether to 16,000 merks, while about the same
amount of his late father's debts was still unpaid. In 1729 he purchased
Cruive House and the Ferry of Skuddale, In 1735 he bought Bishop-
Kinkell; in 1742 Logie Eiach ; and, in 1743, Kenlochewe, which latter
was considered of equal value with Glasletter in Kintail, which was sold
414 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
about the same time. He also, about 1730, redeemed Davochairn and
Ardnagrask from the widow of his uncle William ; and Davochpollo from
the widow, and son, James, of his grand-uncle, Colin of Mountgerald.
In 1752 he executed an entail of all his estates ; but leaving debts at his
death, amounting to £2679 13s lOd more than what his personal estate
could meet, Davochcairn, Davochpollo, and Ardnagrask, had eventually to
be sold to pay his liabilities.*
In 1738 he pulled down the old family residence of Stankhouse, or
" Tigh Dige," at Gairloch, which stood in a low marshy, damp situation,
surrounded by a moat, from which it derived its name, and built the
present house on an elevated plateau, surrounded by magnificent woods
and towering hills, with a southern front elevation — altogether one of the
most beautiful and best sheltered situations in the Highlands ; and he very
appropriately called it Flowerdale. He vastly improved his property,
and was in all respects a careful and good man of business. He kept out
of the Forty-Five. John Mackenzie of Meddat applied to him for aid in
favour of Lord Macleod, son of .the Earl of Cromarty, who took so pro-
minent a part in the Rising, and was afterwards in tightened circumstances ;
but Sir Alexander replied, in a letter dated "Gerloch, 17th May 1749,"
as follows : —
Sir, — I am favoured with your letter, and am extreamly sory Lord Cromartie's
circumstances should obliege him to sollicit the aide of small gentlemen. I much raither
he hade dyed sword in hand even where be was ingag'd then be necessitate to act such
a pairt. I have the honour to be nearly related to him, and to have been his companion,
but will not supply him at this time, for which I beleive I can give you the best reason
in the world, and the only one possible for me to give, and that is that I cannot.f
The reason stated may possibly be the correct one ; but it is more likely
that Sir Alexander had no sympathy whatever with the cause which
brought his kinsman into such a pitiable position, and would not, on
that account, lend him any assistance.
Several of his leases, preserved in the Gairloch charter chest, contain
some very curious clauses, some of which would make those who advo-
cate going back to the " good old days " draw their breath ; but notwith-
standing conditions which would now be called tyrannical and cruel the
Laird and his tenants understood each other, and got on remarkably well.
The tenants were bound to sell to him all their marketable cattle "at
reasonable rates," and to deliver to him at current prices all the cod and
*The state of religion seems to have been for a long time, and up to Alexander's
time, in a very unsatisfactory state in the Presbytery of Gairloch, now that of Loch-
carron. " In March 1725, we find the Presbytery of Gairloch obliged to hold a
meeting at Kilmorack, as the Presbytery, to use the language of the record, had no
access to meet in their own bounds, since they had been rabbled at Lochalsh on the
16th September 1724, that being the day appointed for a parochial visitation there.
From a petition which Mr Sage, the first Presbyterian minister of Lochcarron, settled
there in 1726, presents to the Presbytery, in 1731, praying for an act of transportability
— we see that he considered his life in danger — that only one family attended regularly
on his ministry ; and that he dispaired of being of any service in the place." The same
writer informs us that not further back than the middle of the eighteenth" century the
inhabitants of Lochcarron in this Presbytery " were involved in the most dissolute bar-
barism. The records of Presbytery, which commence in 1724, are stained with an
amount of black and bloody crimes, exhibiting a picture of wildness, ferocity, and gross
indulgence consistent only with a state of savagism." — New Statistical Account of Lock-
carron.
f Eraser's Earls of Cromartie, vol. ii., p. 230.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
ling caught by them; and, in some cases, were bound to keep one or
more boats, with a sufficient number of men as sub-tenants, for the pro-
secution of the cod and ling fishings. He kept his own curer, cured the
fish, and sold it at 12s 6d per cwt. delivered in June at Gairloch, with
credit until the following Martinmas, to Mr Dunbar, merchant, with
whom he made a contract binding himself, for several years, to deliver,
at the price named, all the cod caught in Gairloch.*
Sir Alexander married, in 1730, Janet, daughter of Sir Koderick
Mackenzie, second Baronet and V. of Scatwell, with issue —
1. Alexander, his heir,
2. Kenneth, who died in infancy.
3. Roderick, a captain in the army, killed at Quebec before he attained
his majority.
4. William, a writer, died unmarried.
5. James, died in infancy,
6. Kenneth of Millbank, factor and tutor to Sir Hector, the fourth
Baronet, during the last few years of his minority. He married Anne,
daughter of Alexander Mackenzie of Tolly, with issue — (1) Alexander,
County Clerk of Eoss-shire, perhaps the most popular, and, at the same
time, the most reckless member of the Clan that ever existed. His father
left him .£20,000, and, for years, he had about £1000 per annum as factor
for Lovat and Tulloch ; but he spent it all and a good deal besides, and
died in poverty in 1861. He married, and had issue — Alexander, in
New Zealand; Kenneth, married twice, in India, and died in 1877 ; and
Catharine, who married Murdo Cameron, Leanaig ; (2) Janet, who mar-
ried the Rev. John Macdonalcl, Urquhart, with issue ; (3) Catherine, who
* The following is an extract from a lease granted by Sir Alexander to the great-
great-grandfather of the writer, John Mor Mackenzie, grandson of Alastair Cam Mac-
kenzie, fourth son of Alexander, V. of Gairloch, by his wife, Janet Mackenzie of Ord.
The lease is for 20 years, " of the equall half of the quarter lands of Airidale a Pris, or
North Airidale. ... as presently occupied by him ;" is dated the 5th of September
1760 ; but is not to take effect until Whitsunday 1765, five years being, at the time, to run
of the old lease. John Mor binds himself to pay Sir Alexander " all and hail the sum
of one hundred and thirty-one marks and a half Scots meny, two marks three shillings
and fourpence money for said Crown rent, ten merks ten shillings and eightpence in
lieu of Peats, or as the same shall reasonably from time to time be regulated by the
proprietor, a mark of Grove mony, Twenty marks mony foresaid of Stipend, or as the
same shall hapen to be setled twixt the landlord and minister. Two long carryages,
Two custom wedders, a fedd Kidd, a ston of cheese and halfe a ston weight of Butter,
eight hens or as usuall eight men yearly at their own expense to shear Corn or cutt
Hay, a Davach of Ploughing, and four horses for mucking." John also " obleigs him-
selfe to attend Road duty yearly four days with all his servants and sub-tenants or pay
a yearly capitation, optional! to the Landlord, dureing the lease under break of tack,
and to sell all the cod and ling (that) shall be caught by him and his forsaids at the
current price to our order and to dispose of all mercat catle to our Drover at reasonable
rates, also under break of tack." He has also to pay " a fine or grassum " at the term
of Whitsunday 1765, "all and hail the sum of two hundred and fifty marks Scots mouy
and the like sum at the end of every five years of this tack making in all the sum of one
thousand marks Scots mony," &c., &c. The document is holograph of Sir Alexander;
and it is arranged that it shall be registered for conservation in the Books of Council
and Session, so that letters of horning and all needful executions may pass thereon in
proper form. The elder John Mor Mac Alastair died during the currency of the lease.
He was succeeded in it by his son, John Mor Og, to whom, in 1785, a lease is granted of
the whole of Erradale, jointly with his relative, George Mackenzie, at a rental of £24
and a grassum of 40 guineas. In 1790 the rent is increased to £32 and the grassum to
£50 ; in 1795 to £40 of rent and £50 of grassum ; and five years later the lease is
again renewed at the same rent.
416 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
married Alexander Mackenzie, a merchant in London, and grandson of
Alexander Mackenzie of Tolly, with issue, an only daughter, Catherine,
who married Major Eoderick Mackenzie, VII. of Kincraig, with issue ;
(4) Jane, who, in 1808, married the Kev. Hector Bethune, minister of
Dingwall, with issue — Colonel Bethune ; Eev. Angus Bethune, Hector
of Seaham ; Alexander Mackenzie Bethune, Secretary of the Peninsular
and Oriental Navigation Company ; and a daughter, Jane, who married
Francis Harper, Torgorm. Mrs Bethune died in 1878, aged 91 years.
7 and 8. Margaret and Janet, died young,
9. Another, Janet, married Colin, eldest son of David, brother of
Murdo Mackenzie, VII. of Achilty. Murdo leaving no issue, Colin ulti-
mately succeeded to Achilty, though he seems afterwards to have parted
with it, as, in 1784, he has a tack of Kinkell, and dies there, in 1813,
with his affairs involved.
Sir Alexander had also a natural son, Charles Mackenzie, ancestor of
the later Mackenzies of Sand, and two natural daughters, one of whom,
Annabella, by a daghter of Maolmuire, or Miles MacEae, of the family of
Inverinate, married John Ban Mackenzie, by whom she had a daughter,
Marsali or Marjory, who married John Mor Og Mackenzie (Ian M6r
Aireach), son of John Mbr Mackenzie, grandson of Alexander Cam Mac-
kenzie, fourth son of Alexander, V. of Gairloch, in whose favour Sir
Alexander granted the lease of North Erradale, already quoted.
He died in 1766, in the 66th year of his age, was buried with his
ancestors in Gairloch,* and succeeded by his eldest son,
(To be Continued.)
THE EDITOR'S TOUR TO CANADA.— By the time this number
shall have been in the hands of the public, the editor will be on his way
across the Atlantic to see his countrymen and describe their manner of
life in the Great Canadian Dominion. Arrangements have been made by
the proprietors of the Aberdeen Daily Free Press, by which at least one
special letter a- week will appear in that journal, under the title of " The
Highlanders of Canada," in which a faithful comparison will be drawn
between the position of those who have left their country and those, in
similar circumstances, who remained at home, and other information. Mr
Mackenzie has already made arrangements to deliver Lectures on Celtic
Subjects, such as " Prince Charles and Flora Macdonald " ; " Highland
Clearances"; "Highland Valour"; "Highland Superstition," &c., &c.,
and will be glad to do so in any City or Town in Nova Scotia, or on the
St Lawrence, where any Highland or Scottish Societies are willing to
make arrangements or patronise the lecture. Letters addressed to the
care of the Editor of the New- York Scotsman, New-York, will be promptly
replied to.
The Celtic Magazine will, meanwhile, be conducted by one of our
best Celtic scholars.
* The old chapel and the burying place of the Lairds of Gairloch appear to hare
been roofed at this date ; for in the Tutorial accounts of 1704 there is au item of 30
merles for "harling, piuuing, and thatching Garloch's burial place."
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 417
THE SCOTTISH BIBLE SOCIETY'S 8vo. EDITION OF THE
GAELIC SCRIPTURES.
TO THE EDITOR OP THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
DEAR SIR, — In my papers on our Gaelic Bible mention was necessarily
made of the two great Bible Societies of England and Scotland ; the British
and Foreign Bible Society and the National Bible Society of Scotland. But
I did not weary your readers by always citing the full official name of
either Society. I simply, and I think sufficiently, designated them as
the English or the Scottish Society, as the case might be. In this want of
technical exactness Dr Maclauchlan thinks he spies an opportunity for
the exercise of his dexterity. And so, in his own way, as if with painful
hesitation and infinite regret, he first insinuates, and straightway takes
for granted that I have committed the unpardonable " blunder " of mis-
taking the National Bible Society of Scotland for an entirely different
Society — a Society, useful enough in its own sphere, but which has
nothing to do with editing or publishing Gaelic Bibles !
Your correspondent knows perfectly well that he might just as reason-
ably taunt me with mistaking his own Christian name, on the ground
that, while there arc other Maclauchlans than himself, I, in these lines,
use only his surname. And this is the sole foundation of his suggestion
that a certain part of my last paper " is a tissue of blunders."
With that explanation the whole of his letter, if it does not exactly
become a tissue of blunders, is shown to be, what is worse, a bundle
of misstatements— which fortunately I can leave to the tender mercies
of the Rev. Alexander Cameron. For that gentleman has anticipated
them all, and fully disposed of them in the letter which, by good luck,
was the bed-fellow of my neighbour's bantling.
Dr Maclauchlan objects to what he is pleased to call my Miltonic
account of the Gaelic Scriptures committee. That is a very small matter.
And if, in looking back to the " copious eloquence " and other unparlia-
mentary arts by which he succeeded for years in obstructing the appointed
work of the committee, he now thinks that they smell more of the
dramatis persona?, of Milton's caverns of woe than of the demigods and
heroes of Homer and Ossian. I am sure I have no quarrel with him
about it. But one thing I venture to predict. If the old fight in the
committee between Dr Maclauchlan and other members of his own Church
is renewed in the Celtic Magazine with anything like the emphasis
which so often scandalized the meetings of the committee, your readers
will soon see for themselves that niy description was rather Pre-Raphaelite
than Miltonic.
But the combat may not be renewed. For somehow in these last
days, Dr Maclauchlan has come to " have a very strong repugnance to
controversy about Gaelic." He has in fact " found it very unprofitable."
That at least is truly spoken ; and cave canem is neither dog-Latin nor
unprofitable philosophy.
K 2
418 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Notwithstanding all his varied gifts, I fear Mr Cameron is not endowed
with a keen sense of humour. Else why take such stern exception to my
quieting statement that the blunders of the Gaelic Bible of 1860 were
" carefully corrected " in the editions of 1863-8 ? Surely on his own
showing, these successive corrections of the work must have implied no
small care and toil at least on the part of the tinsmith — I mean in so
largely tinkering and soldering up again those flimsy stereotype plates,
which, in 1860, had been warranted, and, I suppose, paid for as perfect.
As you can testify, my personal desire in regard to the edition of 1860
was either to ignore it (if that could have been done consistently with the
general character of the articles), or to despatch it with the barest possible
notice. And when it became necessary for me in some sort to characterise
the work, I certainly did so as shortly, and with as little offence to the
editors as the claims of honest and independent criticism would
permit. I knew, as every man knows with the least pretension to Gaelic
scholarship, that the work was blundered and botched irremediably.
But I did not say so in as many words. If I say it now, Dr Maclauch-
lan, when next he goes a-tilting, can saddle the right steed.
Dr Maclauchlan reminds me that many years ago I was myself a
member of this committee ; and I understand that I am still a member of
a similar committee of the National Church, whose meetings, if ever con-
vened, I do not remember having once had an opportunity of attending.
The actings of the former committee are now fair matter of history. But
while describing in a general way, and within but four lines of print, the
public character and the unhappy public results of the committee's labours,
it must be remembered that, in the paper which has occasioned this con-
troversy, I carefully avoided the least reference to individual members of
the committee, or to their opinions or actings at its meetings.
If I do otherwise now, be it still observed that I name only one who
first named himself, and that I unvail his conduct to the exttnt only that
may be required to repel his attack.
My statement that Dr Macdonald's Gaelic text of 1826 was being re-
published by the National Bible Society, after revision in a spirit strictly
conservative, was made on official authority. On the same auihority the
statement is repeated. To have set up again the text of 1860, or the
" corrected " text of 1863 or 1868, would have been not merely a blunder
but a grave offence. If Dr Maclauchlan, as his letter seems to imply, has
discretionary power from the Society as to the extent to which the autho-
rised text is to be tampered with, every devout student of the Word will
sincerely pray that this discretion may be used with reserve and reverence,
and that when the fruit of this fourth attempt has reached the public, we
shall not have to lament that the last state of our people's Bible is worse
than the first. — I am, dear sir, yours faithfully,
DONALD MASSON.
Edinburgh, 5th Aug. 1879.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
SIR, — I observe in this month's number of your magazine a letter
from the Rev. A. Cameron, F.C. Brodick, republishing charges which he
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 419
brought long ago against an edition of the Gaelic Scriptures, superintended
by the Rev. Dr Maclauchlan, Edinburgh, and me in 1860 ; and this letter
I must characterise as very extraordinary on various accounts ; for it is
written with the avowed purpose of guarding the public against a new
edition of the Scriptures which is still unpublished, which, therefore, he
cannot know, and which actually is not, in any sense, a re-issue of that
of '60. He condemns what he has not seen, and further while he brings
against '60 the very grave accusations that the changes which it has made,
corrupt the language, and " seriously affect the meaning and structure
of the places in which they occur," the proofs which he brings forward
are not only glaringly inconclusive, but are in themselves of so utterly
insignificant a character as to be undeserving of a serious answer.
I hope that the forthcoming edition will prove to be the most useful
hitherto published in Gaelic, for it will give copious references, maps, and
explanatory tables — helps to the understanding of the Bible which, while
some time ago furnished to the natives of the South Sea Islands, have
not until now been provided for the natives of the Highlands and Islands
of Scotland ; and as the repetition of Mr Cameron's charges, if left unre-
futed, may possibly prejudice some people against this work, I address
myself to the very distasteful task of discussing his twelve counts of in-
dictment. The task is most distasteful because I heartily hate contro-
versy, and of all controversies one about Gaelic matters — for a spirit is
generally manifested in these which fortunately has been banished from,
the discussion of all other languages; and specially because I can scarcely
imagine a poorer, a more profitless, or sterile employment for the human
mind than wrangling about Gaelic hyphens and apostrophes. But to be-
gin the dreary toil —
1. Mr Cameron says " the preposition an (in) is marked with an apos-
trophe to represent it as a contracted form." This statement is scarcely
correct ; but, taking it as it stands, I most willingly take the responsibility
of distinguishing an with the obnoxious mark, where I believe it to
stand for ami an. In the 1st Ps., e.g., we have ann an comhairle, $c.,
ann an slighe, fyc,; ann an caitliir, fyc. Where an comhairle alone is
used I think it right to mark the elision, and will continue to do so until
I see a better reason against it than that brought forward by my critic.
2. G,u-n for gu'n, as implying that the n is euphonic, is a grievous
charge. But the editors of '26, whom Mr Cameron used to extol as
" thorough grammarians," often treat it as euphonic. Thus in Ps. Ixvii.',
we have gu deanadli, gu tugadh, gu beannaiclieadh. In hundreds of other
instances the n is omitted before consonants, as well as vowels, a clear
proof that they regarded it as euphonic, and while I do not consider the
decision of the " Joint Committee on the revision of the Gaelic Scriptures7'
absolutely binding on any one, yet it is deserving of mention that they
declare gu-n the proper form. I think most people will prefer such sanc-
tions to the mere ipse dixit of Mr Cameron.
3. Gha-n eil is condemned on the same ground as the foregoing, the
n said to be the representative of the long obsolete ni con. But Stewart,
ill his grammar, gives Gha bheil as the right form, and says the n is
euphonic. All writers and speakers dispense with its aid in other nega-
tive expressions as Glia bhuail, Cha bhean, &c. The joint committee pro-
420 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
nounce it euphonic, and therefore I will continue to treat it as such, re-
gardless of the imaginary claims of the venerable fossil ni con.
4. Tha was at one time written atta, and is still sometimes written,
and spoken a ta, therefore the use of tha is a grievous offence. Such is
the fourth charge in the black list before us. Atta is certainly to be
found in old Irish MSS., but tha is universally used in Gaelic speech, and
has been so for scores of years back. What is all this, however, to Mr
Cameron's dictum ? His legislating on this, and on several other points,
assumes that language is to be denied all living power of modifying its
forms or expressions ; and his condemnation is as entirely unreasonable as
would be that of writers of English for daring to change the spelling
used by Caedmon, or Wycliff. Besides all which tha, as Mr Cameron is
well aware, is used hundreds of times over by the " thorough gramma-
rians" ot the '26. In the very last chapter of Eevelation it occurs eleven
times, while ta is used only five times. Yet he charges the use of it as
an offence against Dr Maclauchlan and myself !
5. Bhitheas is used for bhios. This trifling charge is not worth
mentioning except as illustrating the character of Mr Cameron's objections.
Both forms are used in '26, and also in '60. In the latter preference is
frequently given to the longer form as more emphatic, and therefore more
suitable to the language of Scripture.
6. The Norn. Plur. frequently ends with a vowel. In 1860 n, which
does not essentially belong to the case, i? added to the vowel, not euplioniaos
causa as in 1826) but as a general rule. Thus the regular Norn. Plur. is
banished from written Gaelic, while it is still in use in spoken Gaelic.
I am sorry to be obliged to contradict every assertion in this paragraph
except the first, and even it is here overstated. I maintain that in Gaelic,
as spoken in the Highlands, n is the characteristic termination of Plural
nouns, as opposed to a or e ; and I have the authority of Mr Skene, who
gives this as one of the facts which distinguish Scottish from Irish Gaelic.
" The Nom. Plur. frequently ends like Irish and Manx in an, as Slatan,
rods ; Maitlwan, chiefs." [Dean of Lismore's Book, p. 140.] E. is speci-
fically Irish. N. specifically Scottish. I assert that '26, while fre-
quently following the course described by Mr Cameron, departs from it
in instances difficult to count — e.g., Isaiah ix., 10 — we find clachan
creadha, craobhan sicamoir, craobhan seudair. Isaiah iv, I., ni seachd
nun/than greim, &c. In Isaiah iii, 18-23, amid the greatest irregularity,
we have Nom. and Gen. Plur. in n, and throughout both Old and New
Testaments, there are many hundreds of instances of Norn. Gen. and Voc.
Plur. in n before words beginning with a consonant, while there are just as
many instances of the same cases in a, or e before words beginning with a
vowel, so that the causa euphonice fare very poorly here as well as in
many other cases in '26. What '60 really does is preserving to some ex-
tent the genuine Highland termination against the Irish, so unfortunately
followed in '26, and so strongly patronised by Mr Cameron.
7. Mr Cameron is severe on treating what he calls the indeclinable
Noun Tighearna, lord, as declinable, making the Norn, improperly T!gh-
earn. If he looks at '26 he will find this word very frequently written
Tigheam in the Nom., and Tighearna in the Gen., while, with the usual
confusion marking that edition, he will find instances of the very opposite
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 421
treatment. The 29th Ps., not a very long one, affords proof of both.
Further, Mr Skene gives the Nom. Tighearn, as distinctively Scottish,
while Tigliearna is Irish [Dean's Book, p. 140], and I consider his autho-
rity at the least equal to Mr Cameron's. But whether the Noun is called
by grammarians declinable or indeclinable — whether Scottish or Irish —
I consider it a right thing to reduce it to some kind of order rather than
leave it in the absolute irregularity with which it is treated in '26.
8. The eighth accusation is writing air 'bhi for air bhi, &c. To this
it might be sufficient to answer that James Munro, whom I consider the
most accurate writer of Gaelic that I have ever known, used the form
condemned by Mr Cameron — that Stewart gives the infinitive of Bi as
do bhith, a bhith or gu bhith, and that in '26 we have Tit. i. 7., " Is c6ir
do easbuig a bhi," &c. II. Tim., vi., 17, 18. — " Gun iad a bhi ard-
inntinneach' ; iad a bhi saoibhir ann an deadh oibribh." Job xxiv., 23.
— " Bheir e dha a bhi ann an tearuinteachd," and many similar instances
might be given, while in conversation gun a bhi is the prevalent form at
least in Lochaber. I think it one of the smallest of very small things
to dispute about the question whether gun bhi, or gun 'bhi, be the better
form ; but from what I have said I feel bound to dissent from my critic's
dogmatic ruling on the subject.
9. As for the regular use of d° and discarding f as a form of the 2d
poss. pron., I have to say that, in every Gaelic Dictionary and Grammar
which I have ever seen, do is the form given — to never. Why t should
be introduced I cannot conjecture. The practice is condemned by
Stewart in his Grammar (p. 79). The pronunciation does not in the
least require it, and as to the important fact discovered by Dr Stokes,
that t must have been the original letter because we have tava in Sanskrit,
Tuus in Latin, and Thine in English, it is a very extraordinary as-
sumption that such facts in foreign languages should alter long-established
usage in Gaelic, The principle involved would deprive it of all indepen-
dent self-improving power. I may add that Zeuss (Gramm. Celt., p. 344)
gives do as the established form, while he adds in parenthesis (forsan pro
tho); and, what is more to the purpose, '26 often uses d' before a vowel
as well as before a consonant ; a' d' aghaidh, Ps. li., 4; a' d' ionnsuidh,
Job xv., 8, and in scores of other instances.
10. Mr Cameron says " Dr Masson has happily remarked that the
change of the prep, do into de . . . . is the great grammatical im-
provement which the edition of 1 860 professes to have introduced into
the Gaelic Scriptures ! " This iinhappily compels me to remark that, in
making the statement, Dr Masson drew as largely on his imagination as
he did in speaking of the number of copies of '60 sold by the Bible
Society — a misstatement amply confuted by Dr Maclauchlan in this
month's Celtic Magazine, and proved to be wrong by 11,000. But the op-
position to the use of de, is so very curious that it deserves a word or two
more regarding it.
In old Irish MSS., with which Mr Cameron is far better acquainted
than I am, de, or di, occurs as representing the Latin de, ex, ab ; do re-
presenting Latin ad, English to. In the spoken language of the High-
lands the distinction is preserved. Both our grammarians, Stewart and
Munro, recommend doing the same in the written language. The radical
422 Till-: CELTIC MAGAZINE.
difference between the two is represented in their compounds dhe and
dha, yet the editors of '26 have discarded de " of," and strangely imposed
on do the double duty of representing the two widely different meanings
of of and to, "Why this has been done and is now defended I never saw
explained. As to Mr Cameron's other remarks about pronunciation " that
de in the above sentence must be pronounced very nearly like jc in jelly,
and exactly like deth (of him, of it)," I have to say only that the must
exists merely in his own imagination, that as a simple matter of fact the
de is not so pronounced in many districts of the Highlands. The jelly pro-
nunciation may prevail in Arran, but it does not find a place in Lochaber,
nor have I ever heard it in de except from the unskilled lips of a South-
ron vainly attempting to master Celtic sounds.
11. Fios or Fhios. Both forms are very common in spoken Gaelic.
Both occur alike in '26 and '60, and why this matter should be charged
as an offence I know not.
12th, and fortunately lastly, as to his charge of altering am fad is beo
e to am fad 's i# beo e, he assigns a reason to which the editors of '60
are strangers. He may however in '26 find constructions entirely accord-
ing to that which he denounces. But this is a point on which I think
it very needless to consult either '26 or '60. I am in the constant habit
of conversing with men who speak far purer Gaelic than I, or, I will ven-
ture to say, even Mr Cameron can do — genuine old Highlanders Avhose
language is uncontaminated by any foreign taint. " Fhad 's is beo mi " ;
" f had 's is mairionn domh " they use regularly. The same occurs in many
of our free native songs ; and I hold formal rules, or verbal analyses of
very little value, in comparison with the usage of our pure vernacular.
And now, that I have gone over the whole of this formidable-looking
catalogue of alleged errors and corruptions, I ask any rational man (if such
may be expected to read it) to say whether even one of the charges is
borne out by the proof. I ask further, whether there can be any more
absolute waste of time and paper, than in wrangling about such thoroughly
trifling and microscopic points as these ? Is there any conceivable inter-
est affected by our writing cha-n'eil, or cha' n'eil ? gu-n or gu'n 1 "While
Gaelic lasts some will prefer one form, others another : and such is the
case in all languages. If, however, there be any language on which a per-
son should write with moderation, and tolerance of the opinions of those
who differ from him it is Scottish Gaelic ; for its orthography is still .^o
very unsettled that no two writers in it can be found who entirely agree
as to its minuter points. Nay, I have never yet seen five pages by the
same author free from variations and discrepancies, and in the various dis-
tricts of the country there are wide diversities as to words and inflections,
especially as to pronunciation. If people would allow each other to write
after his own fashion, the better expressions would in course of time com-
mend themselves to general acceptance. There would be " a selection of
the fittest," as in all other cultivated languages, and a uniform style would
establish itself in peace and goodwill ; but if I must judge of the future
by the past and the present, I see no hope of so happy a prospect for
Gaelic.
I feel constrained reluctantly to add a few remarks on the manner of
Mr Cameron's criticisms, as well as on the matter of the changes which he
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 423
proposes to stereotype. In doing so, I confine myself absolutely to his
controversial attitude, seeking in no way to diminish the respect due to
him personally.
That attitude is of the most despotic, autocratic description. No King
or Kaiser, no Patriarch or Pope, can issue laws with an air of more ab-
solute infallibility than he does. Grammars and dictionaries, authority
and usage, must yield to his laws ; and, as for the ignoramuses who pre-
petrated the obnoxious edition of '60, they have acted under "entirely
erroneous ideas of Gaelic and its structure." Quite in the lofty style of
the old rulers, who said — " This people that knoweth not the law are
cursed." Mr Cameron throughout all his laying down of absolute rules
on Gaelic writing appears to have completely forgotten the truth that
" There is no rule without an exception," not even his.
Further let us look at the improvement which he tries to make on our
language. It is to galvanize into activity mummy forms of words that have
for centuries been wrapped up in Irish swathing-bands, and to banish the
living, breathing forms, now familiar in the Highlands, for those dry ske-
letons. Even his power cannot effect this ; for whatever truth be in the
theory of " development " in the material world, it certainly holds in the
world of language. Every spoken language must, from the nature of the
case, develop and grow, and will break the rusty chains with which
learned antiquarianism vainly strives to bind it. Horaoe declares that,
"with usage is the judgment and the right, and the standard of language,"
and every succeeding century that has passed since his day, has proved
the truth of his sage observation.
But what I have especially to complain of and to protest against in
Mr Cameron's conduct is, that he charges against the edition of 1860 as
grievous transgressions, things that are to be found hundreds of times over
in that of 1826, and of all intermediate editions. I have proved that
fully one-half of his twelve counts of indictment against the former are to
be found in the latter In fact, I see only four "corruptions" for which '60
is exclusively responsible — the frightful ones of sometimes writing an
with an apostrophe, changing gu'n into gu-n, cha n'eil into cha-n'eil, and
using de in translating " of" instead of do which signifies " to." Yet, he
calls the editors of 1826 " thorough grammarians," those of 1860 he
places under the dominion of " entirely erroneous ideas of Gaelic." This
is glaringly in opposition to the very first principles of justice.
Mr Cameron says that he purposes to re-publish as soon as possible a
correspondence which passed between him and me in 1870 regarding this
doomed edition. I can have 110 objection to his doing so. All the zeal
and learning which he has hitherto bestowed on this matter have used him
as Balaam of old did the Moabite ruler — turning the eagerly-wished ban-
nings into blessings — and producing the very opposite effect to that which
he desired. The public have bought Fourteen Thousand Copies of that
edition (freed from the few typographical errors which appeared in the first
issue) — showing an undeniable majority against Mr Cameron ; and I
doubt not, whatever new heights he may yet climb, whatever new sacri-
fices he may offer to his idols, will be followed by the same results. At
the same time if, as his words seem to imply, he publish this correspond-
ence as showing all " the value of the alterations " made in '60, or in any
424 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
respect descriptive of the character of all " the alterations " made in that
edition, he will do what is entirely unworthy of him. Many foreign
words and foreign idioms are "altered" into vernacular Gaelic. Very
many anomalous sentences are written as he himself and all competent
scholars now write the language. Yet, of all these unquestioned and un-
questionable improvements, there is no mention made in that correspond-
ence ! Fair, full, and honest criticism is worthy of all respect. But cri-
ticism so partial as to condemn in one editor what is commended in an-
other, and representations that are misleading, are deserving of all reproba-
tion.
Lengthened as my remarks are, I must be allowed to state that, in the
1826 edition of the Gaelic Scriptures, there are matters of criticism very
different in importance from the " pin-points " discussed by Mr Cameron.
That translation, which within fourteen years of its publication, was or-
dered by the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland to be revised,
takes liberties with the " Received Text," which, as far as I am aware,
have not been ventured on in any other version. Various passages are
transferred from one historical book to another, apparently with the view
of reconciling discrepancies. The integrity of each individual book is com-
pletely disregarded, and one is used accordingly to correct the errors of
another. The Eeceived Hebrew text is frequently set aside for the Sep-
tuagint. Clauses are omitted which are to be found in Hebrew, and at
least one which is to be found in the Greek of the New Testament, while
there are additions not to be found either in the Hebrew or in the Septua-
gint. These are matters demanding serious consideration from those who
believe "that all Scripture is given by the inspiration of God," and will
I trust soon receive it. I may, if you allow me, take a future opportu-
nity of pointing out some of these in your pages — of showing what are the
real "corruptions" in the Gaelic translation of the Scriptures. But,
meantime, I am glad to stop and subscribe myself, yours truly,
ARCH. CLERK, LL.D.
KILMALLIE MANSE, 7th August 1879.
THE CLAKDONALD OF KEPPOCH.
BY D. C. MACPHERSON.
II.
ALEXANDER (the younger brother of Ronald) removed to Ireland, and
married, about 1781, Anne, daughter of James Anderson, Esq., M.D.,
County Antrim. In 1801 he settled in the United States of America,
where he died, 23d May 1840, in his 95th year, and was buried in the
Cathedral Cemetery of Baltimore. He had three sons — John (of whom
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 425
hereafter), James, and Chichester. James had no male issue, but there
are descendants of his in Canada by his female issue. Chichester, the
third son, who emigrated to Canada, married there, and had issue. Any
lineal male descendant of this Chic/iester now alive is the rightful head of
the Keppoch family.
John Macdonald (eldest son of Alexander) was born in 1783. He
was married, on 4th July 1818, to Margaret, daughter and heiress of
Alexander Coulter, Esq., by the Eight Rev. Enoch Fenwick, Eector of
St Peters, Baltimore. He died, 17th March 1824, at Baltimore, and was
buried in the Cathedral Cemetery there, leaving the following issue : —
1. Alexander, of whom presently, as heir to his father.
2. James Macdonald, born, 3d March 1784 ; married, 7th May 1814,
Grace, daughter of — . M'Henry, Esq. ; and died, 17th March 1832,
leaving issue — a daughter,
(1), Mary Elizabeth, born, 20th August 1815, who married, 28th
December 1841, Francis Von Damman, of Bremen, in Germany, and has
issue still living —
1. Catherine, married to John Dubh Aberdvar.
2. Sarah, married to Charles Carroll, Esq.
3. Maria, married to — . Johnston Smith, Esq.
ALEXANDER, said last lineal Chief of the Clandonalds of Keppoch,
was born llth Nov. 1818. He was married at St James' Church, Balti-
more, by the Eev. Father Guildea, on 9th April 1840, to Annie, daughter
and heiress of Thomas Walsh, Esq., of Co. Cork, Ireland. He died, 6th
June 1858, and was buried in St Patrick's Cemetery, Baltimore, U.S.A.,
and left issue1 —
1. Ferdinand Macdonald, who died without issue.
2. Annie Alexis, born 28th May 1845, who was married, 8th Sept.
1868, in the Cathedral of Baltimore, U.S.A., by his Grace the Most Eev.
Archbishop Spalding, to John, Marquis d'Oyley, of Paris, France.
By Brief, dated 9th February 1874, Pope Pius IX. granted to the
Marchioness d'Oyley the privilege of having a private chapel and chap-
lain, and by letters patent, dated 8th February 1877, he created her a
Matrone of the Holy Sepulchre. She has issue —
(1.) Reginald Donald, born, 9th August 1869. He was baptised, by
special permission from His Holiness, 25th December 1869, in the private
chapel of the Eoyal Palace of Marlia ; his sponsors being Martin John
Spalding, Archbishop of Baltimore, and Her Eoyal Highness Victoria
Augusta, Princesse de Bourbon.
(2.) Gilbert Raoul, born 13th February 1875, and baptised in the
Church of the Madeleine, Paris, 5th October 1876, his sponsors being
His Eminence Monseigneur Antonio Cataldi, Grand Master of Ceremonies
of Pope Pius IX., and Her Serene Highness Mary, Duchess of Hamilton,
Princess of Baden, &c.
3. Louise Macdonald, born 6th April 1859, and still unmarried,
426 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
ANCIENT POSSESSORS AND WRITS OF CULLODEN.
BY CHARLES ERASER-MACKINTOSH, F.S.A,, SCOT., M.P.
THE name of Culloden has, from many circumstances, an interest second
to no other locality in the Highlands, and it is here proposed to furnish
notes on the Possessors of the Barony, with some of the titles prior to its
acquisition by the present family. First, we believe, promulgated in the
Memorabilia of Inverness, all subsequent writers follow in alleging that
Culloden was acquired by the family of Forbes about 1625. The deed of
sale is dated however in 1637 ; Duncan Forbes, first of Culloden, being
therein designated " of Bught." It would appear that prior to the sale,
both he and James Cuthbert of Drakies had wadsets over portions of the lands.
The first time the name of Culloden appears on record is in the Char-
ter of Kildrummie, Nairnshire, by Alexander II. to the Bishop of Moray,
dated Roxburgh, 4th March 1238, where the following lands are men-
tioned in their order thus — " Drakies, Forest of Inverness ; Culloden,
Essich." From the time that the Mackintoshes settled in the north, and
were hereditary keepers of the Castle of Inverness, their retainers spread
over the lands of Culloden, Petty, and Ardersier having what was termed
" kindly possession," and not being moveable tenants. Connage was the
principal residence in that part, as mentioned in the MS. History.
The lands of Culloden were included in the Great Charter by Robert
Bruce to Randolph, Earl of Moray, and remained with the Dunbars,
successors in the Earldom until the forfeiture, in 1452, of Archibald
Douglas, who had married the heiress of line, and proprietrix of the lands.
Culloden having thus remained in the possession of the Earls of
Moray for about a century and a half, reverted to the Crown in 1452, and
was thereafter granted to Sir William Edmonstone. The family of Ed-
monstone of Duntreath, now represented by a well-known parliamentary
figure, Admiral Sir William Edmonstone, M.P. for the County of Stir-
ling, is of great antiquity. It is alleged that the first ancestor was Ed-
mundus, who attended Margaret, daughter of Edgar Atheling into Scot-
land in 1070, he being a younger son of Count Egmont of Flanders.
Receiving a grant of land near Edinburgh, he gave it the name of Ed-
mundeston, which became the distinctive appellation of the family. This
Edmund's descendant, John de Edmonstone, received several charters
from David II., in particular the Coronership of Edinburgh, and in 1368,
the Thanage of Boyne, County of Banff, being there styled knight. Sir
John's grandson, Sir William, received a grant of Culloden in the King's
hands, as aforesaid, some time betwixt the years 1452 and 1460, as ho
died in the latter year. He also received the lands of Duntreath in 1452,
which have since remained in the family. He was succeeded by his son,
William, who was appointed a Lord of Session in 1461, and died the fol-
lowing year. Archibald succeeded his father, William, and was in turn
succeeded by his son, William, who sold the lands of Culloden to Alex-
ander Strachan of the old family of Thornton.
From an Inventory, itself more than three hundred years old, we quote
the following items applicable to the period of the Edmonstones, when
proprietors of Culloden, having the English modernized : —
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 427
" Item, — A Charter under the Great Seal given by King James to
Archibald of Edmiston, son and apparent to William Edmonstone of
Duntreath, and Jonat Schaw, his spouse, upon the lands and Barony of
Culloden, dated 16th January 1469.
"Item. — An Instrument of Sasine proceeding upon a Eetour past upon
a service whereby William Edmonstone, son to Archibald Edmonstone of
Duntreath, was seized in the lands and Barony of Culloden, dated 2d
June 1503, under sign and subscription of Mr Andrew Sinclair, Notary
Public.
. " Item. — A Charter granted by William Edmonstone of Duntreath to
Alexander Strachan upon the lands and Barony of Culloden, dated at
Perth, the 1st July 1506.
" Item. — The Precept of Sasine following upon the said Charter, of
the day of the date of the foresaid Charter.
" Item. — The true Copy of the Precept of Sasine directed by William
Edmonstone for infefting of Alexander Strachan in Culloden, under sign
and subscription of Alexander Baxter, Notar Public. Primo Julii 1506.
" Item. — The King's Confirmation upon the foresaid Charter, under
the Great Seal, dated at Stirling, 3d July 1506."
The Edmonstones thus only retained Culloden for about fifty years.
The Strachans of Thornton are a very old Scottish family. Walterus de
Strachan is found as early as 1160. In the time of David II. is found
Walter's descendant, Sir James Strachan of Monboddo, who had two
sons — first, Duncan of Monboddo, and second, Sir John, who and his de-
scendants were styled of Thornton. Sir Alexander Strachan of Thornton
was created a Baronet of Nova Scotia, 28th May 1625, only two days
later than Gordon of Gordonston, the premier Baronet. The line of Sir
John having failed in 1663, William Strachan of Monboddo succeeded to
the Baronetcy. It is at present dormant, if not actually extinct.
The name of Strachan was very prominent in the Counties of Aber-
deen and Banif, in the 15th and 16th centuries. After their settlement
in Inverness-shire, several inter-marriages took place with neighbouring
families. George Strachan, the second of Culloden, married Hugh Rose
of Kilravock's eldest daughter by Agnes Urquhart of Cromarty. John
Oig Grant, brother of that respectable individual, James na-Creach, mar-
ried one of the Misses Strachan about 1509. Another married Grant of
Shewglie and Corrimony.
Alexander Strachan of Culloden was succeeded by his youngest son,
George, and the latter by three daughters — Marjory married to Alexander
Dallas of Budgate ; Elizabeth married to Thomes Gordon of Wrays ; and
Margaret married to Hucheon Rose, who resided at Kinray of Dalcross;
and from these ladies and their husbands the lands were purchased by
Lachlan Mor Mackintosh of Mackintosh, as noted in the titles alter quoted
between the years 1570 and 1582.
The intake from the river Nairn ex adverso of the lands of Culclachie
to serve the mill of Colquinnock, forming the subject of arrangement
'twixt the two heritors, as early as 1547 is still to be seen, a pleasant me-
morial of peace in disturbed times.
The following is an Extract from the Inventory before referred to, of
writs connected with Culloden during its possession by the Strachans : —
Ui THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
" Item. — An Appointment of March betwixt the lands of Cuiloden
a nd Robert Stewart of Clava, his lands of Easter Urquhil, dated 3d Oct.
I 508. Alexander Scheirar, notar thereto.
" Item. — An Instrument of Sasine whereby Alexander Rose son to
Walter Rose of Holme, was infeft in wadsett in one-fourth and an augh-
ten part of Cuiloden, dated 10th October 1530. John Scott, notar
thereto.
" Item. — Reversion granted by Walter Ogilvie to Alexander Strachan
of Cuiloden of the lands of Easter Cuiloden, dated at Banff", 27th Sept.
1531.
" Item. — A Charter given by Alexander Strachan to George Strachan
his son, for all the days of his lifetime of the half of the Mid-Davoch of
Cuiloden, to be holden of himself, dated 5th January 1538.
" Item. — The Precept of Sasine following upon the said Charter of
the same date.
" Item. — An Instrument of Sasine following upon, of the date 25th
February 1538. Magnus Waus and John Scott, notaries thereto.
" Item. — An Assignation made by Alexander Strachan of Cuiloden to
George Strachan, his youngest son, of the reversion made by Walter Rose
of Holme, and Margaret Grant, his spouse, for redemption of a quarter
and half and auchten part of Cuiloden in the Easter Davoch thereof, wad-
sett for a hundred merks, dated at Inverness, the penult day of May
1539.
" Item. — Another Assignation made by the said Alexander Strachan
of Cuiloden to his son — George Strachan, of a reversion made by Walter
Ogilvie of Strathnairn for redemption and out-quitting of all and haill the
half lands of Easter Cuiloden, and a merk land of the other half. Dated
at Inverness, the penult day of May 1539.
" Item. — An Instrument of Resignation whereby the lands of Easter
Cuiloden were resigned by Alexander Strachan of Cuiloden in the King's
lands, in favour of George Strachan, his son, dated the last day of August
1539. Mr William Jameson, notary thereto.
" Item. — A Charter under the Great Seal given by King James to the
said George upon the foresaid lands, dated at Dundee, the last day of
August 1539.
" Item. — The Precept of Sasine following thereon of the same date.
" Item. — An Instrument of Sasine following thereon, dated 27th Oct.
1539, under sign and subscription of John Scott, notary public.
" Item. — A Reversion made by Patrick Strachan to Alexander Strachan
his father of the Easter half Davoch of Mid-Culloden, in the sum of two
hundred merks, dated 25th April 1540.
" Item. — A Procuratory of Resignation made by Alexander Strachan,
23d October 1540.
" Item. — A Charter under the Great Seal made by James, King of
Scots, to George Strachan, son to Alexander Strachan of Cuiloden, upon
all and haill the lands of West Cuiloden, Mid-Culloden, and Colwhinnock,
dated Falkland, 16th December 1540.
" Item. — A Precept of Sasine under the Quarter Seal following upon
the said charter of same date.
" Item. — An Instrument of Sasine of the said lands, proceeding upon
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 429
the foresaid precept, dated last December 1540, under sign and subscrip-
tion of Magnus Waus, notary public.
" Item. — An Instrument whereby a noble and potent Earl, James — Earl
of Moray, assignee constituted by Walter Ogilvie in and to the said lands,
and sums of money, granted him to have received the same for redemp-
tion of the lands, dated 18th March 1542. Mr Alexander Ferries, notar
thereto.
"Item. — An Instrument of Eedemption granted by John Me Walter
for redemption of the lands of Culloden, dated the 18th day of March 1543.
" Item. — Another Instrument whereby Walter Ogilvie of Dunlugas,
knight, granter of the said reversion and assignee hereto, granted the re-
version made by him to the said Alexander Strachan, duly fulfilled and
therefore renounced the lands and the instrument; subscribed by Mr George
Duncan, notar, of the date the fourteenth day of April 1543.
" Item. — An Instrument of Eedemption of an aughten part of Cullo-
den redeemed from John Mac Walter, dated 20th May 1544. Gilbert
Hay, notar thereto.
" Item. — A License granted by James Ogilvie of Cardell, heritable
laird of the lands of Culclachie, to George Strachan of Culloden, to draw
a water gang to serve the miln of Colquinnock, dated at Edinburgh, 24th
July 1547.
" Item. — A Ee version granted by James Eose to George Strachan for
redeeming of a part of his lands of Culloden, in the sum of one hundred
merks, dated 13th Sept. 1554.
" Item. — A Eeversion granted by Donald McFerson to George Stra-
chan of Culloden of the lands thereof, dated 16th December 1555.
" Item. — A Gift of the Ward of Culloden, with relief thereof, given
by Queen Mary, to George, Earl of Huntly, by the decease of George
Strachan of Culloden, with the marriage of Marjory Strachan, Elizabeth
Strachan, and Margaret Strachan, daughters and heirs to the said George
Strachan, dated at Aberdeen 9th October 1556.
" Item. — An Instrument upon the back thereof, whereby the said Earl
of Huntly made George, Lord Gordon, his son, assignee to the said gift,
dated at Aberdeen, the 10th October 1556. Mr Thomas Keir, notary
thereto.
" Item. — The Assignation subscribed by the said George, Lord Gor-
don, thereafter Earl of Huntly, to Thomas Gordon of the Wrays, his heirs
or assignees, one or more of the said ward, non entry, relief and marriage,
dated at Huntly, 16th September 1569.
"Item. — A Contract betwixt Lachlan Mackintosh of Dunachton and
Thomas Gordon, anent the lands of Culloden, and marriage of the heirs
of the same, dated at Inverness, 18th Sept. 1570.
" Item. — A Charter made by Thomas Gordon of Wrays to Lachlan
Mackintosh of Dunachton upon all and haill the lands of the mid plough of
Wrays, in security of the disposition and simple alienation of the third
part of the lands of Culloden, sold by Elspet Strachan, his spouse, to the
said Lachlan, dated at Inverness, 19th Sept. 1570.
" Item.- -A Bond made by Thomas Gordon of Wrays to the said
Lachlan Mackintosh, whereby the said Thomas disponed to him the ward
relief and non entries of Culloden, with the marriage of the heirs thereof,
written on parchment, dated 21st Sept. 1570.
430 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
" Item. — A Charter containing Precept of Sasine therein, dated at
"VVrays, the 7th day of January 1571, made by Elizabeth Strachan, one
of the three heirs of umquhile George Strachan of Culloden, with consent
of Thomas Gordon of Wrays, to the said Lachlan Mackintosh and Agnes
Mackenzie, his spouse, of all and haill the lands of Easter Culloden, Mid-
Culloden, Wester Culloden, and Colquinnock.
"Item. — The Instrument of Sasine following thereupon, dated 14th
January 1571. John Gibson, notar thereto.
" Item, — An Instrument of Sasine whereby Elizabeth Strachan, one
of the heirs of umquhile George Strachan of Culloden, was seized in the
lands and Barony of Culloden, on precept furth of Chancery, dated 1 7th
Sept. 1571. John Gibson, notar thereto.
" Item. — A Charter made by Margaret Strachan, youngest daughter of
the three lawful heirs of umquhile George Strachan, with consent of
Hucheon Rose, her spouse, to the said Lachlan Mackintosh and Agnes
Mackenzie, upon all and sundry their three parts of the haill Barony of
Culloden, dated at Kinray, 22d March 1577.
" Item. — Two Instruments of Sasine following thereupon, under sign
and subscription of Mr Martyne Logye, notar public, dated 22d March 1577.
" Item. — Another Instrument of Sasine of the said lands following
upon the said charter, dated 22d March 1578. Mr Martyne Logye, no-
tar thereto.
'' A Charter containing Precept of Sasine of the date at Inverness,
4th December 1582, made by Marjorie Strachan, eldest daughter and one
of the three heirs of umquhile George Strachan of Culloden, with consent
of Alexander Dallas of Budzett, her husband, to Lachlan Mackintosh of
Dunachton, and Agnes Mackenzie, his spouse, and their heirs, of her, third
part of the lands of Wester Culloden, Mid-Culloden, Easter Culloden, and
Colquinnock.
" Item. — The Instrument of Sasine following thereupon, under the sign
and subscription of Mr Martyne Logye, notary, dated 5th December 1582.
" Item. — The King's Confirmation upon the said three Charters, un-
der the Great Seal, dated Holyrood House, 158G." It will be seen that
sixteen years elapsed from the time Lachlan Mor first negotiated for
Culloden, until in 1586 he received the King's confirmation of the various
charters of alienation. From this time, until his death in 1606, Lachlan
generally lived at Culloden, and left the estate in jointure to his spouse,
Agnes Mackenzie of Kintail. Agnes — Lady Dunachton, as she was
styled — must have been a woman of great ability. A member of her
establishment, diversely termed her servitor, doer, and secretary, bore the
singular name, for a Highland household, of Malcolm Ego.
Lachlan Mackintosh's eldest son, Angus, having predeceased, the suc-
cession devolved on Lachlan's death upon his grandson, Sir Lachlan Mac-
kintosh of Torcastle, who lived constantly at Culloden, and in whose time
occurred that well-known event, the hership of Culloden. On the death of
Lachlan, prematurely (it being commonly believed he was poisoned), in Sir
the 29th year of his age, he was succeeded by his son, William, who had
to part with Culloden in 1637, to Duncan Forbes of Bught, in order to
relieve the Lochaber Estates from a pressing debt, fraudulently incurred in
his minority.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 431
WILLIAM GKANT OF GLEN-UKQUHAKT.
MANY long years have passed away, and many changes have taken place
since Glen-Urquhart was the scene of the following legend. Then, the
Glen was thickly wooded with magnificent trees, under the spreading
tranches of which sported the graceful and lively fawn, the squirrel gam-
bolled amidst the green boughs, and the timid hare burrowed at the root,
without fear of molestation ; while the stately stag reclined under the
grateful shade, during the hot noon time of the summer day. But a
change came over this lovely sylvan retreat. Its solitude, rather
than its beauty, attracted the notice of a party of aliens, who found in its
forests a secure place from pursuit, as well as a grand hunting field, well
stocked with venison and game.
These aliens did not belong to any particular clan or sept, but were,
as their name implied, aliens from all the clans. Some of them had been
hounded from their home and people for misconduct ; others had volun-
tarily severed themselves from the ties of kindred and clanship, and, dis-
owning subjection to their own chiefs, lived in uncontrolled liberty, which,
alas ! only too often lapsed into license and lawlessness. As " birds of a
feather flock together," so did these men by degrees band together for
mutual protection, and, in course of time, became very formidable ene-
mies, not only to the Lowlanders, but to all the neighbouring clans. As
they owned allegiance to none but their self-elected captain, they plun-
dered their neighbours indiscriminately, except where they were bought
off by the payment of black mail. It not unfrequently happened, when
one clan opposed another, for one of the rival chiefs to engage the aliens
to fight on his side ; and, as they were free from all clan obligations
and hereditary feuds, they cared not on whose side they fought, provided
they were well paid ; and, according to the old proverb, " honour among
thieves " while so engaged, they not only served their temporary leader
faithfully, but held his property sacred from attack. But as soon as the
term for which they had been engaged had expired, they held themselves
quite as much at liberty as before to carry off his cattle and burn his barns
by a midnight raid.
At length their numbers increased so fast, and their depredations be-
came so frequent and formidable, that the surrounding proprietors com-
plained to the Governor of Strone Castle for allowing such a lawless set
of men to settle within his territories to be a source of annoyance to his
neighbours, and pleaded with him to order them to quit the Glen at once
and for ever.
The Governor accordingly sent one of his men to the alien Captain,
with a message to the effect that they must vacate the Glen, and seek
other quarters. A week would be allowed for their removal, but after
that time any of them found lingering in Glen-Urquhart, or any of the
lands under his- jurisdiction, would be proceeded against with fire and
sword.
The alien leader listened in grim silence to the message as it was in-
timated to him by the bearer ; then, breaking out in a rage, he bade the
432 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
man begone. " Go back," he thundered out, while his eyes flashed with
angry scorn, " go back to your master and tell him I care not for him nor
for his threats, and let him beware of sending such messages to me again.
Take back his letter, and tell him this is how I treated it," at the same
time throwing the paper on the ground and stamping his heel upon it.
" Yet stay ! perchance you might lose this precious epistle, to make sure
of it, you shall eat it." This proposal was greeted with shouts of laugh-
ter from the aliens, and, in spite of the expostulations and struggles of the
messenger, he was forced, amid the jeers of his persecutors, to chew and
swallow every atom of the document ; then, stripping him of his arms and
most of his clothes, they sent him back, warning him on peril of his life
never again to venture to carry such mandates to them. Thankful to
escape with his life from the hands of such desperate characters, the man
hurried back to Strone Castle and reported the ill-usage he had received.
The Governor was very naturally incensed at the recital of the indignities
inflicted upon his ambassador, and vowed that he would have vengeance
upon the insolent intruders. Collecting a large number of his depen-
dants, he placed them under the command of his only son, William
Grant, with orders to proceed up the Glen, and drive out the aliens at the
point of the sword, giving no quarter.
This William Grant was a singularly handsome young man, and con-
siderably over six feet in height. He was yet so well-proportioned, that
only by comparison with his fellows, one noticed his unusual stature.
With blue eyes and fair hair — a clear white skin, which any lady might
envy, and a graceful athletic form — he was a very Adonis personified ;
and his qualities of head and heart being in unison with his good looks,
he was loved and admired by the whole clan. The men selected for this
expedition to Glen-TJrquhart cheerfully placed themselves under his com-
mand, and started in high spirits, anxious to punish the interlopers for
their many acts of oppression and insolence. Beaching the Glen, they
proceeded with caution to prevent being taken unawares by the wily foe,
and after going some distance without seeing or hearing anything of the
aliens, they redoubled their vigilance, supposing the enemy was trying to
lead them into an ambuscade. But, when they had traversed the Glen
from end to end without any signs of opposition, they hardly knew what
to think. The young men of the party exulting in their strength and
courage, boastingly asserted that taking fright at the preparations made
against them, the aliens considering " discretion the better part of valour,"
had decamped en masse. The older men, knowing better the desperate
character of the men they had to contend with, shook their heads, and
gave it as their opinion that instead of flying, the aliens had merely
hidden themselves in the thickest part of the forest, among the numerous
caves and hiding places in the rocks, and were waiting an opportunity to
take their pursuers unawares.
William and his party continued their search for several days without
discovering any traces of the aliens, till, at last, they decided upon return-
ing home. William, however, was so delighted with the beauty of the
Glen and the appearance of good sport which it afforded, that he deter-
mined upon spending a little time to pursue his favourite pastime. Some
of the most prudent of his followers tried to turn him from his purpose,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 433
by suggesting that if the aliens were hiding near, they might possibly soon
return, and that his life would be in danger if he was found alone. But the
brave youth only laughed at their counsel, and telling them to inform his
father of the reason of his delay in returning to the castle, saw his com-
rades depart with a light heart, in which fear was unknown.
After spending the, day, enjoying the excitement of the chase, the
evening found him wandering slowly and pensively along the shady
avenues and leafy groves, formed by the drooping birch trees, admiring
the beauty of the scene, inhaling the sweet perfume of the floral treasures
which Nature had so profusely strewn around, while his ear was charmed
with the sweet notes of the nightingale, warbling her evening song.
As he strolled along, drinking in deep draughts of pure delight at the
beauty and sweetness around him, he heard the refreshing, cooling sound
of running water, and, shaping his course towards it, he soon reached a
clear, limpid, bubbling spring, issuing from the rock, and which, as if
glad to get free, rushed impetuously from the narrow opening in the rock,
rattling down over the stones with a deal of noise and bustle, and then,
getting more subdued, spread out, and formed into a very bonnie stream
winding and meandering through the. forest glades, growing slower and
quieter as it proceeded, sometimes even coyly hiding underground for a
few yards only however to re-appear with renewed life and beauty, until
it lost itself in the river. As William followed its devious windings, his
ears were assailed by the sound of a sweet female voice, singing one of
those pathetic half-mournful songs, peculiar to the Highlands. He stood
still with astonishment at hearing such a totally unexpected sound, and,
as he listened, he lelt a sort of superstitious awe stealing over him, for he
could scarcely bring himself to believe that it was not some supernatural
being that was producing such enchanting strains. Curiosity, however,
getting the better of his fear of the unearthly, he moved gently forward
to catch a glimpse of the singer— fairy or mermaid, or whatever else she
might be — saying in an undertone, " The cross be betwixt me and thee,"
and involuntarily laying his hand on his breast where he wore a charm
composed of a*piece of singed cow-hide, called " Caisean-uchd," and
some berries of the rowan tree, picked by moonlight, which was
a sovereign remedy against the arts and wiles of tairy, warlock,
or kelpie. Cautiously parting the bushes and intervening branches that
opposed his view, he caught sight of the vocalist. With suspended breath,
and dilated eyes, he gazed upon her. Again he pressed his hand on the
amulet ; again he mentally repeated his exorcism, for now he felt certain
that he beheld an inhabitant of another world, for nothing mortal could
be half so beautiful. Within a few yards of where he stood was a lovely
maiden, just budding into womanhood, sitting on the grassy bank of the
burn. She was cooling her feet in the clear running stream, while her
hands were deftly entwining fresh culled wild flowers in her long silken
tresses of jet-black hair, while ever and anon she bent forward to see her
beautiful form reflected in the crystal water. Her plaid lay on the grass
beside her, and her fair white neck and bosom were seen undulating, as she
sang the sweet plaintive notes of a Gaelic love song. All the stories about
fairies and their dread enchantment he had ever heard flashed across his
mind, but he felt so fascinated, that he could not tear himself from the
L 2
434 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
aptivating sight. Soon, however, tliis sylph of the wood relieved him
from his entranced state, by getting up, drawing her plaid over her
shoulder and slowly walking away, still singing as she went. With, a long-
drawn sigh, partly of relief at his escape from the influences of the fairy,
and partly at regret at losing sight of the fair vision, young Grant pulled
himself together, and continued his ramble. But all the beauty and
sweetness of the evening he had so enjoyed before seemed to have van-
ished with the nymph. Everything now appeared grey and cheerless, so
he improvised a hunter's bed, and lay down to rest.
Next day he resumed his sport, or at least attempted to do so, but in
reality his mind was occupied more with the lovely figure he had seen the
previous day. He often stood in a reverie listening for the sweet notes
which had so charmed him before, while the brown hare passed close to
him unheeded, and the gentle doe came within shooting distance un-
harmed— for his bow was held unstrung and the arrows rested in the
sheaf. The evening turning out wet and stormy, Grant looked about for
a better shelter than that afforded by the leafy bowers of the forest. He
at last discovered a natural cave among the rocks, and gladly availed him-
self of the protection it provided against the fast-coming storm. He found
the cave ran in a good distance, and, though the entrance was narrow, it
was a good size inside, and had evidently been made larger by the hands
of men, than it originally was ; and as Grant penetrated further, he was
surprised to see tokens of its being very recently occupied as a dwelling-
place. "Ah !" exclaimed he, "this no doubt was one of the aliens' hid-
ing-places, and not a bad one either. I shall rest like a prince here."
There were several beds made of dried heather, covered over with skins,
ranged round the walls of this natural cavern ; and selecting the best, our
hero stretched himself upon it, and was soon fast locked in the arms of
Morpheus. How long he slept, he knew not, but he awoke with a start,
by a light shining on his face, and the noise of men's voices in loud and
pager conversation. The new comers had lighted a fire, the smoke of
which circling round the cave to find an exit, made the place so dark that
the aliens had not perceived the intruder upon their hospitality.
William Grant was one of the bravest of men, yet his blood ran cold,
and seemed to curdle in his veins. His heart beat fast, while a cold pers-
piration broke from every pore, as the imminent danger of his position
became apparent to him. Here was he alone, far from his friends, sur-
rounded by dozens of his inveterate foes ; any moment the merest chance
might discover him, when he felt sure to meet with a sudden and inglori-
ous death, without the least opportunity of defending himself, and, worse
than all, his body would be cast out as carrion for the birds of the air to
devour, and his friends would never know his fate.
Shrinking down on his heathery couch, and making himself as small
and invisible as possible, young Grant lay hardly daring to breath, while
eye and ear were strained to the utmost, noticing every movement and hear-
ing every word of the aliens to see if, by any unlooked-for chance, he
might yet escape their deadly clutches. Suddenly another figure appeared
Upon the scene. The new comer was a tall, powerfully-built man in the
prime of life ; and as the fire-light played on his rugged features and fierce
countenance, Grant recognised him as the leader or captain of the aliens.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 435
He entered the cave with a quick footstep, and glancing angrily around,
demanded in a loud imperious voice, " What mean ye, fellows 1 idling
here, quarrelling among yourselves, when there is real work to be done !
Up ! every man of you, go instantly and discover whether there yet lurks
in our glen, as I suspect, one of the accursed Grants. Hasten ! and return
here at once, for I'll make the red cock crow in every byre for twenty
miles round, before another dajris over." At their leader's entrance, every
man had sprung up and stood silent, and, receiving his orders, they all
rushed from his presence, eager to atone for what he seemed to consider
their previous negligence, by extra agility in carrying out his present com-
mands. For a few moments the alien captain stood in deep thought ; his
compressed lips and scowling brow plainly indicated that his meditations
were not of the most pleasant ; then, with a yawn of utter weariness, he
threw himself on the nearest couch, and soon his stentorian breathing con-
veyed to Grant the pleasing intelligence that his foe was asleep. ]$Tow,
indeed, Fortune appeared to smile upon our hero ; his opponents were re-
duced from scores to one individual, and that one slept.
For a moment, William was tempted to bury his dirk in the heart of
the slumbering man, but he was of too chivalrous a disposition to take an
unfair advantage even of his bitterest foe, and besides, his main object at
present was to escape unnoticed from the toils his own imprudence had
entangled him in, and to make his way to the castle as speedily as pos-
sible to warn his father of the intended raid against him. He therefore
rose gently, and grasping his weapon adth a firm hand, stole on tiptoe to-
wards the entrance of the cave, to reach which he had to pass the still
sleeping alien. Holding his breath, and creeping with cat-like tread,
young Grant advanced step by step ; now he has reached the alien's
couch ; another instant he will have passed him when, as ill-luck would have
it, he stumbled over a half-burnt log of wood that had formed part of the
fire. He recovered himself in a moment, but the noise, slight as it was,
proved sufficient to arouse the alert captain, who, springing up, demanded
to know who of his followers had dared to disobey his commands by stay-
ing behind ? Then, as he caught sight of William, he fell upon him with
concentrated fury, exclaiming, "Ah ! a Grant ! did'st think to beard the
lion in his den 1 thou smooth-faced boy." Well was it then for the bold
youth that he had his trusty claymore ready ; with it he warded off the
first rapid blows of his antagonist, who, perceiving the advantage the
sword gave to Grant, and being only armed with the dirk himself, sud-
denly closed with the youth, and pinioning his arms with a bear-like hug,
essayed to bear him by sheer strength to the ground, but he miscalculated
the strength of his young opponent, who was. as well skilled in wrestling
as he was in the sword-exercise. Letting fall his now useless claymore,
Grant took a firm grip of his enemy, and now began the struggle for life
between them. With close-set teeth, knitted brows, from under which
darted the angry flashes of vindictive and deadly hate, with panting
breath and every muscle strained to the utmost, they reel to and fro ; now
backward, now forward. They soon reach the mouth of the cave, still
they cling to each other, with almost supernatural strength and determi-
nation • round and round they go, locked in their deadly embrace ; the
veins stand out like whipcord on their heated temples, their breath is
436 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
drawn in quick convulsive gasps ; but still their eyes glare on each other
with unflinching defiance ; the tremendous exertions they are making soon
begins to tell on both ; their limbs tremble, their heads are giddy, but
still they wrestle like two gladiators thirsting for each other's blood.
Turning and twisting they reach the edge of an ugly rock, which at that
place shelved down to a great distance. As they reach the blink of this
frightful precipice, Grant sees a yet fiercer gleam in the bloodshot eye of
the alien, who, collecting all his remaining strength, makes a final effort,
and attempts to throw Grant over the rock down to the yawning chasm
below. Our hero was unable to resist the sudden, impetuous attempt of
his foe, but determining that if he died, at least his enemy should not
survive to boast of his victory, he clung to the alien with a vice-like grip,
and together they rolled over the frightful precipice and disappeared.
M. A. ROSE.
( lo be Continued.)
PRINCE CHARLIES FAREWELL TO SCOTLAND.
Farewell, my loved Scotland, the land of my sires,
An exile I leave thee, ah ! ne'er to return ;
No more shall a Stuart awaken the fires
That still in thy children exultingly burn.
Ye bold Highland Chieftains, devoted and leal,
My warrior companions on dire battlefields,
I go broken-hearted, tears cannot reveal
The sadness my parting for evermore yields.
Farewell, bonnie Scotland, Culloden's dark day
Dispelled the bright visions I cherished with years.
The sun of my hope has gone down in dismay,
The merciless Saxon triumphant appears.
Ye valorous clansmen who fought as ye loved,
Who gloriously bled for the cause of the true,
Ah ! little I thought when as conquerors we moved,
That vanquished I'd bid ye in sorrow adieu.
Farewell, Caledonia, I weep for thy woes,
The chains of the tyrant around me are laid,
Thy cottages blaze 'neath the brand of thy foes,
Thy children are homeless, thy glory is fled.
Alas ! I must leave thee to vengeance and scorn,
No more in the land of the brave I must dwell ;
I go, and when wearily wandering forlorn,
My heart shall be with thee forever, farewell !
SONDEKLAND. WM. ALLAN.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 437
INVERNESS NEW TOWN HALL AND THE HIGHLAND
CLANS.
IT has been proposed by the architect and the contractors for the Glazing
of the New Town Hall Windows — Messrs Adam & Small of Glasgow —
to place the Arms of the various Highland Clans in the Hall Windows.
Nothing, in our opinion, could be more appropriate ; and we are quite
satisfied that no proposal could have been made which would meet with
the same unanimous approval among Highlanders at home and abroad.
The members of the Town Council themselves appear, from the minutes,
to have been quite unanimous in favour of this peculiarly happy proposal,
and they at once remitted the whole subject to a sub-committee of seven
members, with powers to carry their resolution into effect. This commit-
tee requested two of their number — Mr Alex. Mackenzie of the Celtic
Magazine and Mr James Melven, bookseller — to bring up suggestions as
to the best manner in which to carry out the instructions of the Council.
The report brought up by these gentlemen was unanimously, on the mo-
tion of the Provost, generally adopted. It may be found necessary to
alter some of the minor details. Meanwhile, we think the suggestions
worthy of being placed before our readers, all of whom will feel an inte-
rest in the subject ; and it is possible valuable suggestions may be received
from those who have devoted attention to Highland Clan history : —
SUGGESTIONS ADOPTED BY THE COMMITTEE.
" In conformity with the suggestion made at the last meeting of the
sub-committee, we have considered the best way of carrying out the archi-
tect's proposal to fill in the Windows of the New Town Hall Buildings
with the Arms of the Highland Clans. The Town Council having already
approved of Mr Lawrie's happy proposal, it only remains for the commit-
tee to recommend the best plan to carry the resolution of the Council into
effect. The idea is quite worthy of the building which, in future, will be
the most prominent and the principal centre of attraction in the Highland
Capital — for centuries the centre of the Clan system. Chiefs and Clans in
the sense in which it is here proposed to commemorate them, have long ago
become things of the past ; but the system has left its mark on our coun-
trymen, by engendering and stimulating a spirit of genuine devotion,
bravery, and loyalty, exhibited by no other race of people. Nothing can,
in our opinion, be more appropriate, in all the circumstances, than to il-
lustrate and commemorate in a complete and artistic form the best phases
of our ancient mode of government in the Highlands. But if this is to be
done, it should be carried out in such a way as to give a complete and correct
438 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
idea of the origin and development of the Clan system, as far as possible,
in the arrangement of the various Family Arms in the Town Hall
Windows.
" The best authorities, such as W. F. Skene, LL.D,, the late Donald
Gregory, and various others, agree as to the native Celtic origin of nearly
all the Highland Clans ; and Skene especially has classified them in a form
which we suggest should be carried out in decorating with their Arms the
Town Hall Windows. This proposal has the advantage that by it, in
addition to the importance of carrying out a complete idea artistically,
and in all its] parts, any controversy as to precedency or priority of posi-
tion is altogether avoided.
" It is not proposed to represent branches of the Clans — only the great
leaders or chiefs of families whom the minor septs of the respective Clans
acknowledged as their common chief and commander, and whose arms will
now sufficiently represent all the cadets of the various families. Dr
Skene, universally admitted to be the best living authority on everything
connected with the Highlands and Highland Clans, holds that the Celtic
races now occupying the Highlands existed as a distinct people, and oc-
cupied the same country from the earliest periods to which the records of
history reach ; that, before the thirteenth century, they were divided into
a few great tribes under chiefs called Maormors, by Saxon influence
changed at a later period to that of Earl ; that from these tribes all the
Highlanders are descended ; and that to one or other of them each of the
Highland Clans can be traced. After fully stating his reasons in favour
of these conclusions, and in support of a systematic grouping of the Clans
according to a certain order of descent fully described in his ' Highlanders
of Scotland,' he summarises the result of Ms researches in a table showing
the descent of the various clans from a Celtic source ; and we respectfully
recommend that this arrangement should be followed in placing the Arms
of the various Clans in the Windows of the New Town Hall. In case,
however, that Dr Skene may have found reason to deviate in any mate-
rial point from the conclusions arrived at in his ' Highlanders of Scot-
land,' we deemed it proper to communicate with him, as he is now en-
gaged on his great work, " Celtic Scotland," the third and only unpub-
lished volume of which, it is understood, is to be devoted mainly to the
Highland Clans. Any possible deviation, however, can only be a ques-
tion of detail, which can easily be arranged. Meanwhile, we recommand
the following arrangement : —
" Tlie Three, Windows facing Castle Street. — The round spaces in top
of each to be filled in respectively — the centre one by the Royal Arms,
and those on either side by the Scotch and Town, or perhaps the Stewart
Arms. The lower portion meanwhile to be filled in with floral designs
and scrolls. This will express loyalty and patriotism.
" East Window in front of Hall. — Round space at top — Lords of the
Isles. Panels below, on either side — Glengarry and Clanranald. These
will represent the Maormorship or Earldom of the Gallgall.
" It requires two windows to take in the Arms of the Clans which we
think ought to represent the Maormorship or Earldom of Moray, so we
propose that in the
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE, 439
" Second Window in front of Hall be emblazoned the Arms of the
Chiefs of the Mackintoshes, Macphersons, and Camerons, and in.
" The Third Window the Munros, Macleans, and Eobertsons, all of
whom belong to one Maormorship or Earldom. In the
" Fourth Window — The Rosses, Mackenzies, and Mathiesons. In the
" Fifth Windoio — Macgregors, Grants of Grant, and Grants of Glen-
moriston ; and in the
".Sizfh Window — Macleods, Campbells, and Mackays.
" This exhausts the great Clans, except the Erasers, the Forbeses, and
Chisholms, who, Skene maintains, are not of Celtic but of foreign origin.
Their connection with Inverness however, and the prominent part the
former two at least have played in Scottish, as well as in local history,
entitle them to a prominent position in such an arrangement as is here
proposed. We therefore recommend that these three Clans should occupy
the three Windows in the West end of the Hall — the Erasers occupying
the round space in the top of the centre window, with the Eorbeses and
Chisholms on either side in the other two, all opposite to, and in the same
position as the Royal, Scottish, and Town Arms in the East Windows of
the Hall in Castle Street, the lower part of these windows to be filled in
with floral designs and scrolls, as in those opposite. This would give ex-
pression to a complete idea and represent all the leading clans. There
would still be ample room, if it were thought advisable, to represent the
smaller clans or septs, such as the Macraes, Maclennans, &c., &c., in the
Windows of the Lower Flat. There are also six spaces in the Provost's
Room, and several in the Council Chamber, leaving ample room for re-
presenting the various Chief Magistrates of the Burgh, the Sciences, Great
Industries, or any other interests deemed suitable, and in keeping with
the character of the building.
" The various Family Arms can be found in the different ' Peerages,'
' Baronetages,' and such works ; but application should, in all cases, be
made to the chiefs or their representatives to secure accuracy, for their
respective arms, and to supply correct designs when not otherwise obtain-
able.
(Signed) "A. MACKENZIE.
"JAMES MELVEK"
Dr Skene has written to us that he has not been even re-considering
the conclusions arrived at and adopted in his "Highlanders of Scotland";
and he does not anticipate that his third volume of "Celtic Scotland" —
which we regret to find has been delayed in consequence of a long illness
from which, happily, our greatest Celtic authority is now recovering —
will enter much into Clan history.
440
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
FAREWELL TO FINARY.
My!
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Tha 'n latha maith, 's an soirbheas ciuin, Tha 'n uine 'ruith, 's an t-am dhuinn dhuth
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Tha 'n bat' 'g am fheitheamh fo a siuil, Gu m' thoirt a null o Fhionn-Airidh.
Chorus.
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agus tiugain O, Mo shoraidh, slan le Fionn - Airidh.
KEY A.
. s, : d ., d
.s, : 1, ., 1,
Chorus.
: d ., d
s ., m : r ., d I t, ., r : m ., 1, | 1, ., t, : 1, ., s, | s, :
d ., d : r ., ra | s . s : 1 ., s | s ., m : r ., d | d .11
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Tha ioma mile ceangal blath
Alar shaighdean aim am fein an sas ;
Mo chridhe 'n impis a bhi sgaint'
A chionn bhi 'fagail Fhionn-Airidh.
Bu trie a ghabh mi sgriob leam fhein,
Mu 'n cuairt air luchairt Fhinn an trein ;
'S a dh'eisd mi sgeulachdan na Feinn
'G an cur an ceill am Fionn-Airidh.
'S bu trie a sheall mi feasgar Mairt
Far am biodh Oisein, 'seinn a dhan ;
A' coimheadh grein aig ipma tra
'Dol seach gach la 's mi 'm Fionn-Airidh.
Allt-na-Caillich— sruthan ciuin
Le 'bhorbhan binn 'dol seach gach lub,
Is lionmhor aoibhneas 'fhuair mo shuil
Mu'd bhruachaibh clluth do Fhionn-Airidh.
Beannachd le beanntaibh mo gbaoil
Far am faigh mi 'm fladh le 'laogh, —
Gu ma fad an coileach-fraoich
A' glaodhaich ann am Fionn-Airidh.
Ach cha 'n iad glum is beanntan ard'
A lot mo chridh, 's a rinn mo chradh,
Ach an diugh na tha fo phramh
An teach mo ghraidh am Fionn-Airidh.
Beannachd le athair mo ghraidh
Bidh uii 'cuimhneach ort gu brath ;
Ghuidhinn gach sonas is agh
Do 'n t-sean fhear bhan am Fionn-Airidh.
Mo mhathair ! 's ionmhuinn t' ainm r'liluaidh,
Am feum mi tearbadh uait cho limtli .'
Is falbh a'm' allabanach truagh
An cian uait fein 's o Fhionn-Airidh.
Soraidh leat-sa,bhrathair chaoin,
Is fos le peathraichibh m* ghaoil ;
Cuiribh bron is deoir a thaobh,
'S biodh aoibh oirbh ann am Fionn-Airidh.
'llleasbuig bhig, mo Leanabh graidh,
Gu 'n coimhead Dia thu o gach cas ;
'S bu mhiann leam fein ma thill gu brath
Do ghaire blath bhi 'm Fionn-Airidh.
Am feum mi siubhal nait gun dail 1
Na siuil tha togta ris a' bhut' !
Soraidh, slan, le tir mo ghraidh ;
Is slan, gu brath le Fionn-Airidh !
THE
CELTIC MAGAZINE.
No. XL VIII. OCTOBER, 1879. VOL. IV.
THE EARLY SCENES OF FLORA MACDONALD'S LIFE,
WITH SEVERAL INCIDENTAL ALLUSIONS TO THE
REMARKABLE ADVENTURES AND ESCAPES OP THE UNFORTUNATE
PRINCE CHARLES EDWARD STUART.
By the Rev. ALEX. MACGREGOR, M.A., Inverness.
IT may be premised that a somewhat lengthy narrative has been given
already of the " Last Scenes of Flora Macdonald's Life," in Nos. xix.,
xx., and xxi. of the Celtic Magazine. Many parties, however, have ex-
pressed a desire to be put in possession of what may be ascertained and
known of this heroic female, as to her parentage, and the earlier years of
her eventful life. With a humble endeavour to gratify this desire, the
writer of these articles will do his best to lay before the readers of the
Celtic Magazine, what he has gathered from the most authenticated sources
of information relative to the object in view. In accomplishing his pur-
pose in this, he deems it quite unnecessary to make any apology for intro-
ducing the smallest events, and the most trivial incidents connected with
the chequered career of this lady, from infancy to old age.*
The various circumstances connected with the Rebellions of 1715 and
1745 are minutely recorded in the history of our country. James the
Sixth of Scotland and First of England, was the common progenitor of
the two families which so long and so fiercely contended for the throne
of Great Britain. That monarch was succeeded in 1 625 by Charles the
First, who was beheaded twenty-four years thereafter. His son, Charles
the Second, after the death of Cromwell, was placed on the British throne,
* Most of the facts contained in these articles were procured from Flora's daughter,
Anne, who became the wife of Major-General Alexander Macleod of Glendale. This
amiable and accomplished old lady was well known to the writer. She had in her pos-
session a great variety of scraps and diaries of her mother's adventures, and delighted
to relate a multiplicity of incidents and anecdotes in which her mother had aeted a
part. She died at an advanced age in her daughter's house, Miss Mary Maeleod, at the
village of Stein, in Skye, in the year 1834.
M 2
442 THE CELTIC MAGAZIJSTE.
iii the year 1660. Having died without issue, his brother, the Duke of
York, under the title of James the Second, succeeded him in 1685. His
reign, however, was but short He was dethroned four years thereafter
on account of his religion, and was compelled to leave the kingdom. His
daughter Mary, with William, grandson of Charles the First, then suc-
ceeded to the throne. After them, Queen Anne, another daughter of
James the Second, began to reign. She died without issue in the year
1714, leaving behind her a brother named James. This James, being of
course the son of James the Second, is well known in our national history
as the Pretender, or the Chevalier St George. He had naturally a keen
eye to the kingdom, and was strongly supported in his views to this end
by several powerful friends. Among those most devoted to his cause was
the Earl of Mar, who had forces of considerable strength in readiness for
action. Possessed himself of no small number of willing retainers, he
had the benefit of numerous allies from France. James, with no doubt of
success, unfurled his banner at Braemar, a district in the Highlands of
Aberdeenshire, in 1715, but notwithstanding all his careful preparations,
he was soon defeated. Like his father, the Second James, he was
banished from the kingdom, and his various schemes of success fell to the
ground. Amid all these bloody insurrections, the Parliament of the
nation bestowed the crown on the nearest Protestant heir, George, Elector
of Hanover, and great-grandson of James the First. This monarch, who
was styled George the First, died in 1727, and was succeeded by his son,
George the Second. In the meantime James, the Chevalier St George,
had married Clementina, granddaughter of John Sobieski, the heroic
King of Poland, by whom he had a son, Charles Edward, born 1720,
who eventually became the hero of the Rebellion of 1745. The Chevalier
had likewise another son, who is known in history as the Cardinal de
York.
The Chevalier St George is said to have been a man of little judg-
ment, and decidedly of weak and of vacillating character, to which may
be attributed the utter failure of his attempt in 1715. But, on the other
hand, the heroic blood of Sobieski seems to have invigorated his son
Charles Edward with greater mental powers, and to have inspired him
with that courage in his various campaigns, witli which he did everything
in 1745-6, but retrieve the fortunes of his family.
After the well-known defeat and ruin of the Chevalier St George in
1715, he escaped, and immediately fled to France, where he lived in
seclusion on the bounty of such friends and adherents as continued to
sympathise with him. He prudently made no further attempts to regain
the sovereignty which his ancestors possessed, and to which he was, no
doubt, legally entitled by the principles of pure genealogy. Far different,
however, was the conduct of his elder son, Prince Charles Edward,
although even he, on various occasions, betrayed a lack of prudence and
judgment, which was anything but favourable to his cause. To regain
the crown of his fathers was very naturally the dream of his youth, and
became the daring and romantic eifort of his early manhood. The dis-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 443
appointment of his father, and the abortive issue of the various schemes
resorted to by his father's friends, must have awakened him to a sense of
the position in which he stood. These things must have had a rousing
and inspiring effect upon his sensitive mind, when he had attained to the
age of taking cognisance of them, and when, no doubt, his ambition for
the British crown must have been mightily intensified by the unexpected
fruitlessness of his father's efforts. Thus influenced and excited, he
manifested a firm determination to make the bold attempt, and to embark,
perhaps prematurely, on his very dangerous enterprise. Consequently,
in the twenty-fifth year of his age, he landed in the Highlands of Scot-
land, utterly unprepared for his hazardous adventure. And how could he
have been otherwise, as he there stood without men or money, or the
multifarious munitions of war ? There indeed he appeared, and, but to
a very few, unexpectedly appeared — no doubt a highly pre-possessing
youth, amiable, affable, and active ; but there he stood, in a rough, lonely,
sequestered corner of the West Highlands — in the midst of strangers,
with only seven attendants — and all for the purpose of regaining the
crown, which had already occupied the head of a near relative, but which
had then been lost to his own family for fifty-seven years ! To the eyes
of the wise, this hasty .enterprise could hardly fail to appear as a forlorn
hope, — yet the youthful Prince was sanguine to the extreme, as he relied
implicitly on the justice of his cause, and perhaps not less so, on the
fidelity and valour of our Highland chieftains and their gallant vassals.
By his amiable manners and captivating address he very soon enlisted
the feelings and services of the majority of our Highland Clans. The
intelligence of his arrival spread with " fiery-cross " telegraphy over every
mountain and glen. The Highlanders were on the alert, and became
speedily aroused. Under the guardianship of their brave chieftains they
soon hied to the general rendezvous, where a halo of glory seemed to over-
shadow their arms, and a confidence of success to inspire their hearts !
The youthful Prince placed himself at the head of no insignificant
body of men, and displayed that magnanimity which might be looked for
in the descendant of a Bruce and of a Sobieski ! His soldiers were, no
doubt, untrained, but they were willing. They were, in a sense, unskilled
in the scientific modes of warfare, yet, notwithstanding, their valour and
endurances were great. It is well known that with these untutored but
devoted followers, the Prince took possession of Scotland, penetrated
England to Derby, and caused His Majesty, King George the Second, to
tremble on his throne ! Had he boldly entered London, as he had done
our Scottish towns, it is difficult to say what the result might have been ;
but for various causes he determined to retreat to our Highlands for the
winter, rather than advance on the Capital of the British Empire, although
he was within a hundred miles of it.
From that moment the prospects of the Prince commenced to look
gloomy. His once bright star began to wane, and eventually on the 16th
April 1746, it became completely extinguished on the bloody field of
Culloden ! On that ill-selected battlefield his army was broken to pieces
by the well-trained forces of the Duke of Cumberland. His brave High-
landers fell in hundreds by his side, and he himselt became a fugitive and
outlaw in the land of his fathers. Escaping from the scene of slaughter
444 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
and defeat, ho withdrew, with all possible speed, to the western parts of
the county of Inverness, in the hope of effecting his escape by sea to
France, in which, however, ho was for a time unsuccessful.
The field of battle, immediately after the desperate struggle, presented
a dismal sight ! The bodies of slain Highlanders lay in heaps of carnage
upon the gory plain. These brave sons of the mountains and glens fell
with their faces to the foe, after displaying, under every disadvantage, an
amount of stern heroism peculiar only to themselves. No power on their
part could withstand the artillery and horsemen of the enemy, as to them,
every circumstance of time and place was adverse as foot-soldiers, while
to Cumberland's trained forces, all things were favourable. All the events
of the day were sadly mismanaged for the Prince's cause, and although
the Highlanders stood bravely to the last, they were unable to overcome
impossibilities.
The following stanzas graphically delineate the harrowing scenes of
this battle-field. They are the very creditable composition of Mr T. P.
Fraser, near Melbourne, Australia : —
CULLODEN.
Wild waves the heatb on Culloden's bleak moor,
As it waved on that morn long ago —
When warriors proud on its bosom it bore,
That trembled and shook with theCamerons' loud roar,
And the shouts of each terrible foe.
Oh ! ill fated Stuart, the last of thy race,
Though nobly thy right thou did'st claim —
The tear starts unbidden, when round us we trace
The scene of thy ruin, unstained by disgrace,
Thy conquest untainted by shame.
And ye gallant spirits, the brave and the true,
Who stained the brown heath with the gore
That followed •each terrible stroke that ye drew —
Alas ! that your own should have mingled there too,
And your names pass from earth evermore.
Oh ! proudly and high waved your plumes as ye passed,
And high throbbed your hearts to the sound
Of the war-pipe that breathed out its soul stirring blast,
That to the firm onslaught hurried ye fast —
Ami alas ! to a hero's red mound.
Like leaves by the tempest all scattered abroad,
So here were ye scattered around,
And here were ye piled high on the red sward,
Still grasping in death each deeply dyed sword
That had reddened the cold murky ground.
And when through your ranks like an angel of death,
Poured the fierce storm of iron hail,
That levelled your bravest all low as the heath
As the forest leaves strewn by the whirlwind's wild breath,
Even then your stout hearts did not quail !
" To the charge, to the charge," was your answering cry,
"Lead us on, lead us on, 'gainst the foe,
Why stand we inactive thus tamely to die ?"
All powerless to fight, and disdaining to fly —
To the charge, to the charge !— weal or woe,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 445
Ah ! ne'er in all time, shall that charge be forgot,
Inscribed on the annals of fame ;
Your souls passed away all undimmed by one blot
Of one selfish thought from that blood-reeking spot,
Which still is embalmed with your name.
Notwithstanding the favourable issue of this engagement to the Royal
forces, still there was a dread that hostilities might eventually be in some
shape renewed. In order to counteract this as much as possible, very
stern measures were resorted to. The Government, sensible of the dan-
gerous nature of the Prince's claims, and of the number and power of his
friends in Scotland, immediately resolved to set the high price of £30,000
upon his head! This was indeed a great reward in those days, and
would be no insignificant fortune even in the present day; yet to the
immortal honour of our Highlanders, not one was found sufficiently mean
to betray their Prince, or sufficiently covetous to take this large and
tempting reward of blood. With all the advancement of civilization in
the present day — with all the advantages of the schoolmaster being
abroad — as well as with the much that is ado with ecclesiastical contro-
versies and religious attainments, it is very questionable indeed, should
the same munificent bribe be offered under similar circumstances to-day,
that it would be attended with the same honourable result.
Having thus briefly alluded to a few genealogical and historical inci-
dents in the eventful career of this unfortunate Prince, it may prove in-
teresting to many readers of the Celtic Magazine to lay before them a
rapid sketch of his many hair-breadth escapes, and severe deprivations
previous to his rescue from the Long Island, by the gallantry of the young
lady whose early life will form the chief subject of these papers.
Charles, deeply chagrined by the sad, and, by him, unexpected result
of the battle, lost no time in setting off for some place of safety. He
hastily assembled some of his steadfast adherents, and entreated them to
accompany him as quickly as possible from their present scene of danger.
Accordingly, he left the field thickly covered with the bodies of the
brave Highlanders, who lay dead after fighting so valiantly for his cause.
Having provided a considerable body of horse, as well as several foot
soldiers, he departed along with Sir Thomas Sheridan, Captain O'Neal,
Mr John Hay, Mr O'Sullivan, a faithful old Highlander named Edward
Burke, who acted as guide, and several others. He and his friends
crossed the river Nairn at the farm-house of Faillie between three and
four miles from Culloden, where there is one of General Wade's bridges.
Here the Prince halted to hold a consultation with his friends as to what
was best to be done. No doubt the Highland chiefs engaged in the in-
surrection did not as yet despair, but still expected that they might be able
to rally, and eventually succeed in gaining the great object in view. It
was, however, very apparent that the Prince did not at heart sympathise
with the plans of those gentlemen who had sacrificed so much already for
his cause. " His wish was,'' according to Chambers, " to make his way
as quickly as possible to France, in order to use personal exertions in
procuring those powerful supplies which had been so much and so vainly
wished for. He expected to find French vessels hovering on the West
Coast, in one of which he might obtain a quick passage to that country.
446 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE,
He therefore had determined to proceed in this direction without loss of
time."
Meantime it was agreed that the horse and the greater part of the
attendants shotdd part with the Prince at the bridge of Faillie, which
was done. The gentlemen present, with, no doubt, the concurrence of
several othe* absent adherents, resolved, contrary to the inclination of his
Royal Highness, to meet as soon as possible at Ruthven in Badenoch, in
order, if practicable, to prosecute the cause anew. After bidding farewell
with his faithful friends, lie set off for Stratherrick in company with
Sheridan, O'Sullivan, O'Neal, and one or two more, and were guided for-
ward by poor Burke, who was acquainted with the route. The country
was deplorably desolated. Dwelling-houses and cottages were deserted
by their inmates, who had fled to the rocks and mountains for shelter
from the reputed cruelty of the enemy. The whole scenery seemed to be
visited with the gloom of death ! Meanwhile the party, crushed with
fatigue and hunger, arrived at the steading of Tordarroch, but found the
dwelling shut up, and no living soul near. They wandered on to Aber-
arder, and found matters there to be the same. From Aberarder they
moved along to the house of Farraline, where they fared no better. At
length with much ado, they reached the house of Gorthlig, the residence
of Mr Thomas Fraser, who acted as manager and factor for Lovat. It
happened at this time that Simon Lord Lovat resided at his factor's
house, and very likely made a point of being present on that memorable
day, as, by his instructions, a great feast was in the way of being prepared
to celebrate the expected victory of the Prince that afternoon on the moor
of Culloden. How crest-fallen Lovat must have been when the Prince
had hastily revealed to him the sad tidings of the day, and the irretrievable
ruin of his person, his prospects, and his family ! Various accounts are
given of the effects that the intelligence produced on the aged chief. It
is said by some that he became frantic with alarm, and fled to the field
beyond the dwelling, exclaiming, " Cut off my head at once ! Chop it
off; chop it off!" But by another account, Lovat is represented as hav-
ing " received the Prince with expressions of attachment, but reproached
him severely for his intention of abandoning the enterprise."*
Having thus passed some hours in conversation with his lordship, it
was deemed utterly unsafe to remain there during the night, so after
liberally partaking of the excellent viands laid before them, which they
stood so much in need of, the Prince and his friends bade farewell to old
Simon, and set off to cross the hill to Fort-Augustus, where they made no
stay, but pushed on to Invergarry the romantic castle of the Macdonells of
Glengarry. They arrived at this place a little before sunrise, and found
everything with a cheerless aspect, The great halls of the castle, which
often resounded with the shrill notes of the piobaireachd, and lavished
their hospitality on high and low, were that morning desolate and empty.
The castle had, in short, been completely dismantled, the furniture
removed, the walls made bare, and the whole fabric made the emblem of
desolation and ruin ! One solitary man was found in this once lordly
mansion, but he had nothing to give the weary wanderers to refresh them,
* Vide Chambers' History of the Rebellion of 1745-6, pp. 268, also Burke's Narrative.
Jacobite Memoirs.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 447
but some fish to partake of, and the hard, cold floor for a bed. They
slept, however, for several hours in their clothes, for they had no way of
undressing, and on arising from their unrefreshing repose, the whole party
deemed it prudent to take leave of Charles with the exception of O'JNeal,
O'Sullivan, and Edward Burke. The Prince at this place received a long
communication irom Lord George Murray, dated at Euthven, recapitulat-
ing the numerous blunders that had been committed, and stating that
various chieftains, with an army of between two and three thousand men,
had assembled at Euthven, ready, no doubt, to commence the campaign
anew, on their receiving the commands of his Eoyal Highness to do so.
He sent back a message requesting the army immediately to disperse.
" In thus resigning the contest," says an historian, " which, by his incon-
siderate rashness, he had provoked, Charles showed that he was not pos-
sessed of that magnanimity which many of his followers ascribed to him."
On the evening of the same day the Prince and his now small party
left Glengarry's inhospitable mansion, and betook themselves to Loch
Arkaig, and the country of the Camerons. They arrived late at night at
Clunes, where everything possible was done for their comfort. Old
Cameron of Clunes was an officer in Lochiel's regiment, and was killed at
Prestonpans, fighting bravely for his Prince. Young Clunes felt much
for the misfortunes that lately befel the Prince's cause, and pitying his
forlorn condition, he devised a plan for his safety. A secure and suitable
cave was fitted up comfortably for the use of his Eoyal Highness and his
friends. Provisions were furnished for the occasion, and in order to
entertain the party well, Clunes killed an ox, ordered a part of it to be
immediately dressed and carried to the cave where the fugitives were con-
cealed. And besides all this, a substantial supply of bread, cheese, and
whisky was forwarded with the other viands, and was no doubt found
very acceptable. When it was necessary to depart, Clunes provided a
boat for the fugitives, as well as for Lochiel, who ventured to accompany
them a part of the way. This boat was the only one in the district, as
all the rest had been burnt to prevent the rebels from using them.
Lochiel and the Prince hesitated to cross the Lochy in this fragile, crazy
craft, but Clunes at once volunteered to cross first with a batch of his
friends, and having done it safely, the Prince and his party did the same.
In momentary terror that their route would be discovered, they made all
possible haste to arrive at Glenboisdale. They arrived late in the even-
ing of Saturday, 19th April, at the head of Loch Morar, where they
resolved to remain, as darkness had come on, and the night promised to
be wild and wet. They could find no house, no human dwelling wherein
to take shelter, until at last one of the party stumbled upon a lonely
little hovel in the corner of a wood, which had been used at the time of
sheep-shearing. There was no seat, table, or stool in it, but Burke con-
trived to kindle a fire with turfs which lay in a corner, and having made
seats of stones, the- party passed the night as well as they could. As
there was no boat at Loch Morar to ferry them across, they had no
alternative but to walk on foot, and to cross steep and rugged ranges of
mountains to accomplish their journey, which they did by arriving at
Arisaig in the evening.
(To be Continued.)
448 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
HISTORY OF THE CLAN MACKENZIE.
BY THE EDITOR.
[CONCLUDED. |
THE MACKENZIES OF GA1KLOCH.
X. SIR ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, third Baronet, called " An Tighearna
Ruadh," or Bed-haired Laird. He built Conon House between 1758 and
1760, during his father's lifetime. His mother, who continued to reside
at Kinkell, where she lived separated from her husband, on his decease
claimed the new mansion built by her sou eight years previously, on the
ground that it was situated on her jointure lands; but Sir Alexander re-
sisted her pretensions, and ultimately the matter was arranged by the
award of John Forbes of New, Government factor on the forfeited estates
of Lovat, who then resided at Beaufort, and to whom the question in
dispute was submitted as arbitrator. He compromised it by requiring Sir
Alexander to expend .£300 in making Kinkell Castle more comfortable,
by taking off the top storey, re-roofing it, and rebuilding an adition at
the side, reflooring, plastering, and papering all the rooms.
Sir Alexander, in addition to the debts of the entailed estates, con-
tracted others on his own account, and finding himself, in consequence,
much hampered, he tried, but failed, to break the entail, though a flaw
has been discovered in it since, to which Sir Kenneth, the present
Baronet, called the attention of the Court; whereupon the entail was
declared invalid. He then entered into an agreement to sell the Strath-
peffer lands and those of Ardnagrask, in contemplation of which Henry
Davidson of Tulloch bought the greater portion of the debts of the entailed
estates, with the view of securing the consent of the Court to the sale of
Davochcairn and Davochpollo to himself; but on the 15th of April 1770,
before the transaction could be completed, Sir Alexander suddenly died
from the effects of a fall from his horse. His affairs were seriously in-
volved, but having been placed in the hands of an Edinburgh accountant,
his creditors afterwards received nineteen shillings in the pound.
He married, first, 29th November 1755, Margaret, eldest daughter of
Roderick Mackenzie, VII. of Redcastle, by whom he had issue, one son,
1. Hector, who succeeded him.
She died 1st December 1759.
He married, secondly, in 1760, Jean, daughter of John Gorry of Bal-
blair, and Commissary of Ross, with issue —
2. John, who raised a company, almost entirely in Gairloch, for the
78th Regiment of Ross-shire Highlanders when first embodied, and of
which he obtained the captaincy. He rose rapidly in rank. On May 3,
1794, he obtained his majority ; in the following year he is Lieutenant-
Colonel of the Regiment; Major-General in the army in 1813 ; and full
General in 1837. He served with distinction and without cessation from
1779 to 1814. So marked was his daring and personal valour that he
was popularly known as " Fighting Jack " among his companions in arms.
He was at the "Walcheren expedition ; at the Cape ; in India ; in Sicily ;
Malta; and the Peninsula; and though constantly exhibiting numberless
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 449
instances of great personal daring, he was wounded only once, when on a
certain occasion he was struck with a spent ball on the knee, which made
walking somewhat troublesome to him in after life. At Tarragona he was
so mortified with Sir John Murray's conduct, that he almost forgot that
he himself was only second in command, and charged Sir John with in-
capacity and cowardice, for which the latter was tried by Court Martial
— General Mackenzie being one of the principal witnesses against him.
Full of vigour of mind and body, he took a lively interest in everything
in which he took a part, from fishing and shooting to farming, gardening,
politics, and fighting. He 'never forgot his native Gaelic, which he spoke
with fluency and read with ease. Though a severe disciplinarian, his
men adored him. He often said that it gave him greater pleasure to see
a dog from Gairloch than a gentleman from anywhere else. When the
78th returned from the Indian Mutiny the officers and men were feted at
a grand banquet by the town of Inverness, and as the regiment marched
through Academy Street, where the General resided, they halted opposite
his residence (now the Lancashire Insurance Office); and though so very
frail that he had to be carried in a chair, he was taken out and his chair
placed on the wide steps at the door, where the regiment saluted and
warmly cheered their old and distinguished veteran commander, who had
so often led their predecessors to victory ; and then the oldest officer in,
and " father " of, the British army. He was much aifected, and wept
with joy at again meeting his beloved 78th — the only tears he was known
to have shed since the days of his childhood. He married Lilias, youngest
daughter of Alexander Chisholrn of Chisholm, with issue — (1) Alastair,
who first served in the army, but afterwards settled down, and became a
magistrate, in the Bahamas, where he married an American lady, Wade
Ellen, daughter of George Huyler, Consul General of the United States,
and French Consul in the same place, with issue — a son, the Rev. George
William Russel Mackenzie, an Episcopalian minister ; and (2) a daughter,
Lilias Mary Chisholm, unmarried. Alastair afterwards left the Bahamas,
and' went to Melbourne as Treasurer for the Government of Victoria,
where he died, about twenty-five years ago. The General died on the
14th June 1860, aged 96 years, and was buried in the Gairloch aisle at
Beauly.
3. Kenneth, born 14th February 1765, a Captain in the army, served
in India, and was at the siege of Seringapatam. He soon after retired
and settled down as a gentleman farmer in Kerrisdale, Gairloch. He
married Florence, daughter of Farquhar Macrae of Inverinate, with issue
— three sons and four daughters.
4. Jean, died young.
b. Margaret, married Eoderick Mackenzie, II. of Glack, Aberdeen-
shire, with issue; and
6. Janet, who married Captain John Mackenzie, Woodlands, son of
George Mackenzie, II. of Gruinard, without issue.
He had also a natural daughter, Janet, who married John Macpherson,
by whom she had Hector Macpherson, merchant, Gairloch ; Alexander
Macpherson, blacksmith, and several others.
The second Lady Mackenzie of Gairloch, Jean Gorry, died in 1766,
probably at the birth of her last daughter, Janet, born on the 14th Octo-
450 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
ber in that year, and Sir Alexander himself died on the 15th of April
1770. He was buried at Gairloch, and was succeeded by his eldest son,
XI. SIR HECTOR, fourth Baronet, better known among his Gairloch
tenantry as "An Tighearna Storach," or the Buck-toothed Laird. A
minor, only twelve years of age when he succeeded, his affairs were
managed by trustees appointed by his father. These were John Gorry,
Provost Mackenzie of Dingwall, and Alexander Mackenzie, W.S., re-
spectively, son and grandson of Charles Mackenzie, I. of Letterewe ; and
Alexander Mackenzie, of the Stamp Office, London, son of William Mac-
kenzie of Davochcairn. These gentlemen did not get on so harmoniously
as could be wished. The first three opposed the last, supported by Sir
Hector, and by his grandfather and uncle of Redcastle. In March 1772,
in a petition in which Sir Hector craved the Court for authority to name
his own factor, he is described as " being now arrived at the age of fourteen
years." The differences between the trustees finally landed them in
Court, on the question, Whether the agreement of the late Sir Alexander
to sell the Ardnagrask and Strathpeffer lands should be carried out 1 and,
in opposition to the majority of the trustees, the Court decided that these
lands should not be sold until Sir Hector arrived at an age to judge for
himself. Securing this decision in his favour, Sir Hector, thinking that
Mr Gorry was acting too much in the interest of his own grandchildren
— Sir Alexander's children by the second marriage — appointed a factor of
his own — Kenneth Mackenzie, his half uncle, the first " Millbank."
In 1789 he obtained authority from the Court to sell the lands which
his father had previously arranged to dispose of to enable him to pay the
debts of the entailed estates. He sold the lands of Davochcairn and
Davochpollo to Henry Davidson of Tulloch, and Ardnagrask to Captain
Ross, Beauly, who afterwards sold it to Mackenzie of Ord.
He was, in 1815, appointed Lord-Lieutenant of his native county.
He lived generally at home among his devoted tenantry ; and only visited
London once during his life, He regularly dispensed justice among his
Gairloch retainers without any expense to the county, and to their entire
satisfaction. He was adored by his people, to whom he acted as father
and friend, and his memory still continues green among the older in-
habitants, who never speak of him but in the warmest terms for his
kindness, his urbanity and frankness, and for the kind and free manner
in which he always mixed with and spoke to his tenants. He was at
the same time believed, by all who knew him, to be the most sagacious
and most intelligent man in the county. He employed no factor after he
became of age, but dealt directly and entirely with his people, ultimately
knowing every one on the estate personally ; so that he knew how to
treat each case of hardship and consequent inability to pay that came
before him; and to distinguish feigned from real poverty. When he
became frail and old he employed a clerk to assist him in the manage-
ment, but he wisely continued landlord and factor himself to his dying
day. When Sir Francis, his eldest son, grew up, instead of adopting the
usual folly of sending elder sons to the army that they might afterwards
succeed to the property entirely ignorant of everything connected with it,
he gave him, instead of a yearly allowance, several of the farms, with a
rental of about £500 a year, over which he acted as landlord or tenant,
until his father's death, telling him " if you can make more of them, all
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 451
the better for you." Six Francis thus grew up, interested in, and
thoroughly acquainted with all property and county business, and with
his future tenants, very much both to his own advantage and that of
those who afterwards depended upon him.
Sir Hector also patronised the local Gaelic bards, and appointed one
of them, Alexander Campbell, better known as " Alastair Buidhe Mac
lamhair," his ground-officer, and allowed him to hold his land in Strath
all his life rent free.* He gave a great impetus to the Gairloch cod fish-
ing, which he continued to encourage as long as he lived.
Sir Hector married, in August 1778, Cochrane, daughter of James
Chalmers of Fingland, without issue ; and the marriage was dissolved on
the 22d of April 1796. In the same year, the marriage contract bearing
date " 9th May 1796," within a month of his separation from his first
lady, he married, secondly, Christian Henderson, daughter of William
Henderson, Inverness, a lady who became very popular with the Gairloch
people, and still affectionately remembered in the West as "A Bhan-
tighearna Euadh." By her he had issue —
1. Francis Alexander, his heir.
2. William, a merchant in Java, and afterwards in Australia. He
died, unmarried, in 1860, at St Omer, in France.
3. Hector, married Miss Fraser, eldest daughter of General Sir Hugh
Fraser of Braelangwell ; was Captain in H.E.I.C.S., and died in India,
without surviving issue.
4. John, now of Eileanach. He studied for the medical profession,
and took his degree of M.D. He was one of the trustees of Sir Kenneth,
the present Baronet, during his minority, and afterwards, for several
years, Provost of Inverness. He married, 28th September 1826, Mary
Jane, only daughter of the Kev. Dr Inglis of Logan Bank and Old Grey-
friars, Edinburgh, Dean of the Chapel Eoyal, and sister to the present
Lord Justice-General Inglis, President of the Court of Session, with issue
— three sons and five daughters.
5. Roderick, a Captain in the army, afterwards sold out, and became
a settler in Australia, where he died. He married Meta Day, an Irish
lady, sister of the present Bishop of Cashel, without issue.
Sir Hector also had three natural children, by Jean Urquhart. He
made provision for them all. The first, Catherine, married John Clark,
leather-merchant, Inverness, and left issue. Another daughter married
Mr Murrison, contractor for the Bridge of Conon, who afterwards settled
down, after the death of the last Mackenzie of Achilty, on the farm of
Kinkell, by whom she had issue, of whom the Stewarts, late Windmill,
Inverness. A son, Kenneth, originally in the British Linen Bank, In-
verness, afterwards died in India in the army.
* Dr John Mackenzie of Eileanach, Sir Hector's only surviving son, makes the
following reference, under date of August 30, 1878, to the old bard : — " I see honest
Alastair Buidhe, with his broad bonnet and blue great-coat (summer and winter) clearly
before me now, sitting in the dining room at Flowerdale, quite ' raised ' like, while
reciting Ossian's poems, such as ' The Brown Boar of Diarmad,' and others (though he
had never heard of Macpherson's collection) to very interested visitors, though as un-
acquainted with Gaelic as Alastair was with English. This must have been as early
as 1812 or so, when I used to come into the room after dinner about nine years old. "
The bard was the great-grandfather of the writer on the mother's side, and was married
to Catherine, daughter of Mackenzie of Shieldag, Gairloch.
452 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
His widow survived him about twelve years, first living with her
eldest son, and, after his marriage, at-Ballifeary, now called Dunachton,
on the banks of the Ness. Though be came into possession of the pro-
perty under such very unfavourable conditions ; though his annual rental
was under £3000 a year ; and though he kept open house throughout the
year at Conon and Gairloch, he was able to leave, or pay during his life,
to each of his younger sons, the handsome sum of £5000, When pressed,
as he often was, to go to Parliament, he invariably asked, " Who will
then look after my people 1"
He died 26th of April 1826 ; was buried in the Priory of Beauly, and
succeeded by his eldest son,
XIL SIB FRANCIS ALEXANDER, fifth Baronet, who, benefiting by his
father's example, and his kindly treatment of his tenants, grew up inter-
ested in all county matters. He was passionately fond of all manly
sports, shooting, fishing, and hunting. He resided during the summer in
Gairloch, and for the rest of the year kept open house at Conon. During
the famine of 1836-7 he sent cargoes of meal and seed potatoes to the
Gairloch tenantry.
In 1838 he published a work on agriculture, " Hints for the use of
Highland Tenants and Cottagers, by a Proprietor," 273 pages, with Eng-
lish and Gaelic on opposite pages, which shows his intimate knowledge
with and the advanced views he held on the subject, as well as the great
interest he took in the welfare of his tenantry — for whose special benefit
the book was written. It deals, first, with the proper kind of food and
how to cook it; with diseases and medicine, clothing, houses, furniture,
boats, fishing implements, agricultural implements, cattle, horses, pigs,
and their diseases ; gardens, seeds, fruits, vegetables, education, morals,
&c., &c., while illustrations and plans are given of suitable cottages,
barns, outhouses, and farm implements.
He married, first, in the 31st year of his age, 10th August 1829,
Kythe Carolyne, eldest daughter of Smith- Wright of Kempstone Hall,
Nottinghamshire, with issue —
1. Kenneth Smith, his heir, the present Baronet, born in 1832.
2. Francis Harford, Kerrisdale, born 1833, unmarried.
He married, secondly, 25th October 1836, Mary, daughter of Osgood
Hanbury of Holfield Grange, Essex, the present Dowager Lady Mackenzie
of Gairloch, with issue —
3. Osgood Hanbury, born 13th May 1842, and, in 1862, bought
Kernsary from his brother, Sir Kenneth, and Inverewe and Turnaig, in
1863, from Sir William Mackenzie of Coul. On 26th June 1877, he
married Minna Amy, daughter of Sir Thomas Edwards-Moss, Baronet of
Otterspool, Lancashire, with issue, a daughter, Mary Thyra.
Sir Francis died 2d June 1843, and was succeeded by his eldest son,
XIII. SIR KENNETH S. MACKENZIE, sixth and present Baronet, uni-
versally admitted to be one of the best landlords in the Highlands. In
1860 he married Eila Frederica, daughter of Walter Frederic Campbell
of Islay, with issue —
1. Kenneth John, his heir, born in 1861.
2. Francis Granville, born in 1865 ; and
3. Muriel Katharine.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 453
WILLIAM GKANT OF GLEN-UKQUHAKT.
[CONCLUDED.]
THE combatants still retained their hold of each other — even during their
frightful fall. The alien being the heavier man, fell underneath, and his
head striking on the rock with terrific force, he was killed instantaneously,
but strangely enough young Grant escaped with his life. The shock how-
ever was so great that he lay bruised and insensible for a long time.
When at last consciousness returned, it was some moments before he could
comprehend his position. He lay, looking up to the star-lit sky, wonder-
ing in a half stupid sort of way, how on earth he got to the bottom of
such a deep gorge. Little by little his memory became clearer, and, find-
ing all his limbs unbroken, he turned and looked enquiringly around to
ascertain what had become of his umquhile foe. At that moment, the
moon emerging from behind a cloud, shed her pale cold light full on the
distorted features of the dead alien. Eecoiling with a shudder from the
ghastly sight, Grant reverently bent his knee with feelings of supreme
gratitude that he had been spared from such an awful asd sudden death.
He now began to consider how he should escape from his still perilous
situation. It indeed required no small amount of thought and delibera-
tion. " No doubt," he soliloquized, " no doubt those fellows will soon re-
turn to the cave, and then the captain's absence will be discovered ; be-
sides, their dogs will soon scent this corpse, and draw their attention to
it and me. What shall I do T
He remained buried in thought for several minutes, then suddenly
lifting up his head, as if struck with a new idea, he began to divest him-
self of his outer clothing, which he made up into a bundle, and hid in a
crevice of the rock ; then, approaching the dead man he, with a gentle
hand and some slight reluctance, removed the kilt, plaid, hose, and bon-
net, in which he quickly arrayed himself. His next step was to examine,
as well as the moonlight would allow, the face of the precipitous rocks
on every side of him. Having, with an experienced eye, selected the
most sloping and rugged side, he commenced liis difficult and dangerous
ascent ; now clinging to the rock with hands and feet ; now springing
like a goat from one coigne of vantage to another ; again, swinging over
the precipice, only holding on by his hands, while by main strength he
drew up his legs and gained a footing, with the steady brain and skilful
movements of a trained acrobat. At last, by dint of climbing,
springing, and clinging, he reached the top in safety ; he was fain, how-
ever, to lie on the ground for a few moments to recover his breath after
the extreme exertion. He then cautiously crept towards the cave, listen-
ing intently for the slightest noise, as a clue to the whereabouts of his
foes. But all was still save the soughing of the wind through the trees,
singing, as it were, a sad requiem over the dead man, the harsh croaking
of the frogs, and the dismal " hoot, hoot," of the owl, that ill-omened
bird, which shuns the light of day. Grant regained the cave, and finding
it still unoccupied, busied himself in removing all traces of a struggle hav-
ing so recently taken place, re-possessed himself of his trusty claymore,
454 THE CELTIC MAGAZIKE.
and again lay down — not indeed to sleep, but to watch and wait, mean-
while trying to contrive a plot that would give him an advantage over his
enemies. He had not long to wait before the aliens began to drop in by
twos and threes, each as he entered casting a furtive glance on what they
took to be the sleeping form of their captain, but having no pleasing news
to report, they all gladly passed the couch in silence, and settled them-
selves down to their much needed repose.
"When the last man had laid down, young Grant still lay quietly
waiting with the lynx eyes and patience of a wild cat watching an unsus-
picious bird. As soon as he felt convinced that they were all sound
asleep, he quietly got up and made his way to the opening of the cavern,
intending to speed like the wind towards his home, but casting a parting
look on his sleeping foes, he paused. The god of battle stirred up his
mind to fight, while the goddess of wisdom counselled immediate flight.
For a moment he hesitated between the adverse promptings of Mars and
Minerva ; his own inclination and training gave the casting vote to Mars,
and he re-entered the cave ; but though he would not accept Minerva as
his sole guide, he was willing enough to avail himself of her aid, so,
catching up a large newly-flayed deer-skin still soft and slippery, he
spread it out just before the opening ; then raising his powerful voice to
its utmost pitch, he shcuted out the resounding and well-known war cry
of his clan. In a moment the startled aliens jumped to their feet, and
rushed tumultuously out of the cave, the foremost men, in their hurried
exit slipped and fell on the skin, the rest, urged forward by their im-
petuous desire to get at the foe, and still further stimulated by the repeated
war cry of the Grants ringing in their ears, stumbled over their prostrate
companions in most admired disorder ; while the doughty William lay
about with his. claymore with right good will. The darkness of the
night favoured his suddenly conceived scheme, for, as the bewildered
aliens struggled to their feet they struck out wildly at their comrades,
mistaking them for the enomy. The carnage was dreadful, the shouts of
the combatants mingling with the groans and imprecations of the
wounded and the clashing of steel, formed a horrid combination of
sounds, " making night hideous."
The conflict was too severe to be long continued, and in a short time
the aliens were reduced to four, while young Grant still remained unhurt.
In the grey light of early morning, the discomfited aliens tried to make
out the number of their assailants, when, to their utter amazement, they
perceived their friends lying dead in dozens, while the only enemy they
could see was the youthful "William, standing erect uttering his slogan,
while his sword dripped with the blood of their slaughtered companions.
With a howl of baffled rage, the four survivors threw themselves upon
him. Now, indeed, he was hard beset. Quickly warding off their blows,
he sprang back, and remembering the old adage of " He who fights and
runs away, lives to fight another day," he took to his heels and fled with
the speed of a hunted stag.
The men followed, keeping him well in view, when they noticed by
the growing light of day that the figure they were pursuing wore the same
tartan as themselves. Confounded at this unexpected discovery, they
stopped and looked at each other in doubt and perplexity. What could it
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 455
mean ? Were they chasing a friend ? or had one of their number turned
traitor ? Yet surely they had heard the battle-cry of the Grants. It was a
riddle they could not solve, but anyhow they had better overtake the run-
away. But when they looked he was nowhere to be seen. Here was a fresh
puzzle — he could not have run out of sight in such a short time ; yet,
where was he ? They ran on for some time longer, but not catching sight
of him, they gave up the chase in despair, and stopped under a large tree
to consult what to do next. They talked and argued among themselves,
but could come to no satisfactory solution of the mystery, except that the
diaul must be at the bottom of it all. One by one they ceased speaking,
and, overcome by fatigue, resumed the slumber from which they had
been so rudely awakened by Grant.
Now once more peace and quietness reigns in the forest of Glen-
TJrquhart : the twittering of the birds, the murmurings of the burn, or the
splash of the water as it falls over the rocks in miniature cascades, being
the only sounds audible. Pity that such sweet repose should again be
disturbed by the turbulent and fighting propensities of man. Yet hardly
had the last of the aliens closed his eyes, than the boughs of the tree
under which they lay were shaken and moved aside, and from it the face
of a man peered down on the sleepers ; then appeared the body of the
owner of the face, slowly and carefully descending the huge trunk. As
he springs lightly to the ground, the figure proves to be that of "William
Grant, who finding himself hard pressed, had adopted, during the
momentary panic of his pursuers, this mode of concealment ; and, as
fortune would have it, the aliens halted under the very tree in which he
was hidden. As he, with dirk in hand, crept warily towards the sleeping
foe, his countenance was lighted up with a look of fierce joy, his eye gleamed
with savage pleasure, while his mouth bore a hard, determined expression.
So changed was his aspect by the unholy passions aroused in his breast
by the exciting scenes through which he had lately passed, that one would
scarcely recognise him as the same man who a few hours ago was rambling
peacefully by the side of the burn, and enjoying the beauty of Nature in
her gentler mood. Bending over the aliens, one by one, with a single
blow, his dirk was buried in the heart of the victim. So sudden and
deadly was the stroke that the sleepers never woke from their slumbers,
but with a single gasp, passed into the long sleep of the grave. Three of
them shared the same fate, when Grant bethought him that it would be
too much like murder to kill a single foe without giving him a chance of
fighting for his life. So, sheathing his dirk, he drew his sword, and
shaking the still sleeping alien, bade him defend himself. The man
jumped to his feet, and seeing his three comrades lying motionless, and
this disguised man or demon, he knew not which, standing before him, he
attacked him furiously, determined to prove if he were mortal or not.
Long and severe was the combat, fiercer and fiercer grew the fight ; the
blows descended with the rapidity of hail, while blood flowed like water.
Grant was severely wounded, and felt his strength giving way. This his
opponent noticed, and redoubled his blows, striving to avenge the whole-
sale slaughter of his friends. Grant grew weaker, his limbs trembled, and
his head was giddy from loss of blood, when a last recourse flashed into
his mind. He was an expert hand at throwing the dirk, a common pas-
456 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
time with the young men of his time. It is his last chance ; if that fails
him, he is a dead man. In a moment he draws his dirk, with a quick
movement he jumps back, and turning himself round to gain force, he
throws the dirk with unerring aim ; he sees it strike the alien, sees him
fall, and then sight, hearing, feeling leaves him — he falls senseless to the
ground. Where is now his strength and manly beauty ? His symmetrical
form and graceful limbs are huddled shapeless on the ground ; his fair
head, gashed with many a cut, lies low on the trampled grass ; his yellow
locks, stiff and discoloured with gore, hang over his livid countenance ;
his blue eyes, so brilliant, so expressive, a few minutes ago, now, half-
closed by the drooping lids, have the fixed, glazed look of death.
Among those who had joined William Grant in his expedition to
Glen-Urquhart was an elderly man named Eonald, who, being greatly
attached to his young master, felt anxious and uncomfortable at his stay-
ing back alone in the Glen, and after going part of the way home with
the rest of the party, he made up his mind to return, and try once more
to dissuade William from his purpose, or, if he could not do that, deter-
mined to stay with him and share any danger that might threaten the
young laird. Having been engaged all his life as a forester, he had no
doubt but that he would quickly light on the track of his young master.
Nor was he disappointed ; with the skill and patience of a Eed Indian he
followed the trail, by the merest trifles — here a footprint, there a broken
twig, anon the bent grass and crushed wild flower, gave him the desired
clue. At length he reached the cave, when his alarm was intense at find-
ing such a number of footmarks, and only too evidently the traces of a
desperate struggle. Most carefully he scanned the lineaments of the slain
aliens, dreading lest he should alight on that of his beloved and honoured
young master. With all his skill he was a little at fault ; there were
footmarks, and evidences of fighting and struggling, all round. In what
direction should he now direct his search ? After many efforts he strikes
on the trail again, followed it to the edge of the precipice, and then with
distended eyes and cold sinking at his heart, he leans over the rock and
scans the frightful chasm below. What is that object lying so white and
still, far, far down ? Yes ! no ! ! yes, it is ! ! ! a human body. How
shall he reach it ? and solve the terrible doubt that is agitating his breast.
Cost what it may, he must make the attempt. Slowly, carefully, and
painfully, he descends the rock, never daring to look below, for fear of
getting giddy. He at last achieves the difficult feat. Then alas ! what
does he see ? The poor remains of a human being, so broken and dis-
figured by the fall and the attacks of birds of prey that the features are
totally indistinguishable. But no doubt remains in the mind of faithful
Eonald. It can be 110 other than his beloved foster son, William Grant,
who had met this cruel fate at the hands of the accursed aliens : and his
opinion was strengthened by finding the clothes that William had hidden.
He recognised each article, and, kneeling on the ground, holding the hand
of the dead man, he swore an everlasting feud against the aliens, and
vowed to avenge the death of his favourite upon the first man of them
that should cross his path.
By taking a circuitous path, and by almost herculean efforts, he at
last succeeded in gaining the top of the rock with his ghastly burden,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Naturally his progress was very slow, and, after going a considerable dis-
tance, he sat down to rest, tenderly laying the body down beside him.
Looking back, he was surprised to see the figure of a man approaching by
the same paths he had just come through. Starting to his feet, he
watched eagerly, and soon, in spite of the distance, made out by the man's
movements that he was tracing out and following the trail he himself had
made. In point of fact, he was being tracked and followed. As this
conviction became clear to the old man, he drew himself up, took an
arrow from the quiver, fitted it to the bow, and stood ready, with a
determined look and a grim smile, pleased to think how soon fortune had
sent him a chance pf revenge. Steady as a rock he stood, watching till
the man got within bow-shot, then, with deadly aim, the arrow flew from
the shaft. Scarcely had it left the bow before Eonald gave a violent
start, and throwing up his arms with a shriek of agony, rushed forward
as if to stay its swift career : for in the moment of shooting he recognised,
to his unutterable despair, that it was his own son who was thus search-
ing for him. In an ecstasy of grief he sees the arrow pierce the breast
of his child. Who can picture the horror of that moment, when, wrung
by remorse, overwhelmed by despair, weeping the salt tears of bitter sor-
row, uttering unavailing complaints against cruel fate, and melancholy
self upbraidings at his fatal precipitation, Eonald bent over his dying
son? The innocent victim of this most lamentable accident had only
strength enough to assure his father of his entire forgiveness, and to ex-
plain that he had been sent by the Governor of Strone Castle to trace out
and recall both his father and William. Then with a last fond message
to his mother, and a faint pressure of his father's hand, the poor fellow
breathed his last. Though overwhelmed with grief at this terrible misfor-
tune still his private sorrow did not make Eonald oblivious to the claims
of his chief ; accordingly he prepared to return at once to the castle, but
now he had two corpses to carry. His strength being unequal to this
double load, he had to carry one at a time, returning at the end of every
mile or so to fetch the other. This slow and tedious process retarded his
progress so much that evening found him only about half way down the
Glen. As he travelled mournfully along, carrying his son's body on his
back, he came suddenly upon two persons — a man and a young girl.
The man reclined against the trunk of a tree, in a half sitting, half lying
position ; the pale face, closed eyes, and listless, drooping attitude, denoted
great weakness, which his many severe and still bleeding wounds ex-
plained. The girl was attending to the sufferer, laving his face with the
clear water of the burn, and employing such simple remedies as she had
at command to aid in his recovery, while the compassionate pity depicted
on her lovely features made her appear a veritable "ministering angel."
As Eonald gazed on the interesting couple, the frame of the old man was
shaken with surprised and compassionate emotion, mingled with no little
fear. For, could he believe his eyes ? or was grief turning his brain 1
there before him, in an alien's dress, lay William Grant, his chief's son.
Yet had he not only a few hours since found his lifeless body, which was
even now lying stiff and stark a little way behind, waiting until he should
return for it. Then who was this lovely maiden attending to the wounded
youth with such tender solicitude ? His head reeled ; reason tottered on
N 2
458 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
its throne. Ronald imagined that he was involved in the meshes of some
diabolical plot of the arch enemy of man, and, with a frenzied cry, he
broke the spell which astonishment had thrown over him, and ran,
afrighted, away, bearing his son's body on his back, terror making him
unmindfid of fatigue. He never stopped until he reached the castle,
when he laid down his son's corpse in the great hall, and with rolling
bloodshot eyes and incoherent utterance, tried to tell his sad, sad story to
the amazed and awestruck inmates. Then the poor overtaxed frame gave
way, and the faithful Eonald fell on the floor in a convulsive fit.
While these stirring events were taking place, young Grant lay be-
tween life and death in the forrest of Glen-Urquhart, waited upon with
the most assiduous kindness by the fair unknown, whose pity was fast
ripening into affection. When at last William opened his eyes, with re-
turning consciousness, his first impression was that he had died, and that
he was already in Paradise. He lay in a not unpleasant languor ; the
fresh morning air, sweet-scented with the perfume of flowers, gently
fanned his brow ; above him the green boughs of majestic trees met and
interlaced, forming a natural canopy through which the sun struggled to
send his scorching rays, but only succeeded in throwing pleasing and
fantastic lights and shadows ; at his feet rippled the joyous swift-running
burn ; beside him sat the lovely being whose vision had so enchanted him
before ; with gentle hand she smoothed his forehead and toyed with his
hair, the touch of her taper fingers sending a thrill through Ms heart and
the blood coursing through his veins with renewed life. Again his ears
were charmed by the sound of her voice, singing, low and sweet, a
plaintive ditty. Strange, he did not feel afraid of her now ; on the con-
trary he felt as though he could lie there listening and looking at her for
ever. As she turned her face towards him and met the admiring glance
of his eyes, she gave a little start of surprised pleasure, and, ceasing her
song, asked him in a gentle womanly voice if he was better, and if she
could do anything for him ? " No," answered he, " only sit and sing, I
want nothing more." Soon, however, he murmured faintly, " Where am
I ? and who are you? Are you a fairy or an angel ?" " Neither," she
replied with a srnile, " only a mortal like yourself. You are in the forest
of Glen-Urquhart ; I found you lying wounded and senseless ; there has
been sad fighting going on, and I fear many lives lost. My name is
Mona, I am the sister of the Captain of the Glen. I see by your dress
that you are one of his band, but I do not remember to have seen you
before. Now you are somewhat better I must leave you for a while till
I find my brother. I begin to get anxious about him as he did not re-
turn to me at the promised time." " Alas, maiden," said William, " your
search will be in vain. Your brother's head lies low ; you will never see
him more." " Can this be true 1 " exclaimed the young maiden in accents
of grief, " no, no, you must be mistaken ; my brother was strong and
skilful with his sword, who could overcome him ? I won't believe it."
" It is true," continued William faintly, " I saw him lying cold and
white last night ; ah ! it was a dreadful sight." " My poor, poor brother,"
sobbed Mona ; then she added, turning an indignant look on her youthful
companion, " why did you not protect him, aye, even with your life ;
shame to you to be alive to tell of your captain's death." " You are
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 459
mistaken," rejoined "William, " I am not an alien though I wear their
dress ; I am a " His voice ceased suddenly, the excitement of talk-
ing was too much for his weak state, and he again relapsed into uncon-
sciousness.
Though stricken with grief at her brother's death, still Mona's kind
heart would not permit her to leave William alone and uncared for. She
went hastily and called some more women, who, like herself, had retired
to a place of safety on the commencement of hostilities, and between
them they conveyed the still senseless William to their retreat, and, in
spite of the unexplained mystery respecting him, they nursed him with
great kindness. For days and weeks he lingered between life and death,
at one time raging in high fever, at another lying helplessly weak. Mona
was his chief nurse, and she soon gathered from his incoherent, discon-
nected ravings while the fever was high, that he was a Grant, and con-
sequently the avowed foe of her brother and his comrades. She was
startled and sorry at this disclosure, but prudently kept the knowledge to
herself as she did not feel sure of her companions' forbearance if they
should guess the truth.
Mona and her companions had meanwhile discovered the body of her
brother and the rest of the aliens, and had given them burial as best they
could. She mourned sincerely, but more because he was her brother and
only relative than from any strong personal affection ; for the late leader
of the aliens had been a stern, harsh, unloveable man, who had always
repelled any show of affection on her part. The other women, finding
their husbands and lovers were all dead, had now no desire to remain in
Glen-Urquhart, the scene of such a dreadful tragedy ; they consequently
wandered away to seek their former homes. Poor Mona had no induce-
ment to accompany them ; she had no home or kindred to return to, the
only living being in whom she now felt any interest was her patient, now
slowly approaching convalescence under her kind and ceaseless attention.
She therefore remained in the Glen to nurse him.
Long was the struggle between life and death, but at last, youth, a
good constitution, and the simple natural remedies employed, drove
back the King ot Terrors step by step, until at length William was out
of danger, but so weakened that weeks would elapse before he could
travel. To his great admiration of the personal charms of his fair com-
panion was now added the most profound gratitude for her skilful bene-
volence. In short, our hero was head and ears in love, and is it much to
be wondered at that during the weary long days they spent together in
the Glen that William succeeded in gaining the affections of the true-
hearted Mona ?
Cold, dark, and cheerless had been Strone Castle since the unhappy
day on which the frantic Eonald had related his tale of woe. No banner
streamed proudly from the battlements; no stirring sound of martial
music was heard within its walls ; no warlike games and trials of skill in
the courtyard ; no revelry in the hall The aged bard sat drooping over
his silent harp ; the clansmen wore a dispirited look ; the servants moved
about dejected and sad ; for all grieved truly for what they believed had
been the certain and untimely fate of the brave and noble-hearted William,
and sympathised with the bereaved and sorrow-stricken father, mourning
the loss of his only son.
460 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Towards the close of a fine day in early autumn the warder on the watch
tower, perceived two figures approaching the castle. He saw at a glance
that they were not any of the inhabitants round about, and he scanned
them with a curious eye, for their appearance was unusual. They were a
man and a woman slowly making their way towards the castle. The
man appeared to walk with difficulty, and leaned heavily on his compa-
nion's arm. The keen eye of the watchman soon detected that the man
wore the dress of the detested aliens, and gave the signal to his comrades
of the approach of an enemy. They crowded round in curiosity, and
waited for the solution of the puzzle. Strange, the figure and the air of
the alien seem strangely familar to them all. Surely they know that
tall athletic form, those chiselled features, those fair yellow locks, and, as
the advancing man looks up and sees them watching, he takes off his
bonnet and waves it in the air. T^hen they all call out in unison, " 'Tis
he, 'tis William ; hurra ! hurra! !" and with joyful shouts they all run
forward to meet him. In a moment he is surrounded and cairied
shoulder high in triumph to the great hall of the castle, the warder
gallantly leading his lovely companion, each and all eagerly crowding
round to grasp his hand — every one talking at once, asking endless
questions. The hubbub reached the Governor, and brought him f'mni
his seclusion. He entered the hall, and stood still with amazement ; then
with a cry of joyful surprise, he heartily embraced his beloved son, who
sprung forward to meet him. Gently releasing himself from his father's
grasp, William turned to where the fair Moiia stood a timid and silent
spectator of all this enthusiasm. Taking her hand he led her up to his
father, and amid the greatest attention and stillness of his audience, said
in a firm, but respectful tone, " My father, you see before you the preserver
of your son. If it had not been for the unremitting attention and kindness
of this fair maid, I should never have seen you again ; and as the only
return I can make for her great disinterestedness is to make her my wife, I
thus publicly betroth her before you all as witnesses, and I ask, father,
for your sanction and blessing on our nuptials." The old Governor was
visibly atfected ; he was a proud, ambitious man, who had hoped his
son would have formed an alliance that would have increased both his in-
fluence and power. But natural affection overcame all schemes of aggrand-
isement. Could he deny the first request of his newly recovered son 1
With a glistening eye and quivering lip he gracefully drew the blushing
Mona towards him, and imprinted a kiss on her white brow, while in a
voice tremulous with conflicting emotions, he said, " My son, I accept
your choice, and willingly give my consent to your marriage with the fair
maiden, your deliverer. I do not know the lady's name or lineage, but
this I do know, that in all wide Scotland you could not find a more lovely
bride." At this public tribute of admiration the bashful Mona blushed
still more charmingly than before, while hearty congratulations and joy-
ous hurrahs rent the air. Presently an old man is seen pushing his way
through the throng, exclaiming, " Let me see him, I won't believe it till
I see him with my own eyes." They all drew back to make room for
poor old Ronald, for it was he. Changed with grief, his figure, once so
upright, was bent and bowed under the load of sorrow caused by the sad
and tragical fate of his son ; his hair was white as snow, not from age,
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 461
but from the strain on his mind, from the never-ceasing, torturing reflec-
tion that he was the slayer of his own son. When face to face with his
foster-son, he looked at him long and earnestly, then, clutching his hand,
he exclaimed, " Speak, tell me is it indeed you ? did I not find you dead
at the bottom of the precipice? now, how is it then that I see you here ?"
" Be calm, good Ronald," replied William, " I am just he and no one else.
It was not my body that you found in Glen-Urquhart but that of my
enemy ; thanks to this kind lady I survived to see you all again." The
old man was quite satisfied with this explanation, and relieved his pent-
up feelings by shouting a hearty hurrah, which was quickly taken up by
the rest of the household, who cheered their favourite and his bride again
and again.
A few days afterwards there was a great festival at the Castle ; flags
and banners hung from every available place ; music both loud and sweet
was to be heard on every side ; the cooks and waiting men ran hither and
thither with an air of great importance ; visitors, gentle and simple, kept
constantly arriving at the castle, in the great hall of which stood the grey-
headed Governor, with a smile and pleasant greeting for all his numerous
guests. Anon comes floating on the breeze the sound of voices, chanting
the impressive music of the church ; soon is seen a procession slowly
making its way forward amid the respectful greetings of the crowd. It
is the Bishop and his attendant clergy coming to solemnise the ceremony,
which is shortly to take place. Gradually the bustle becomes less, the
spectators settle in their places ; the priests and choristers are ready ;
there is a hush of expectation ; then a door at the further end of the hall
opens and William Grant appears, leading in the beautiful Mona, sur-
rounded by the noblest and loveliest ladies of the neighbourhood. No-
thing was omitted that could grace the occasion and lend additional pomp
to the ceremonial. " All went merrily as a marriage bell," and as to the
feasting that followed it could not be described. Such eating, such
drinking, such dancing, such rejoicing, was never before, never since, seen
in the beautiful vale of Glen-Urquhart.
M. A. ROSE.
-- o
THE NATIONAL BIBLE SOCIETY'S 8vo. EDITION OF THE
GAELIC SCRIPTURES.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
SIR, — Dr Masson in his letter to you in your last number has neither
proved nor retracted the misstatements of fact made in his paper on the
Gaelic Bible in reference to the Edition of 1860.
I charged him with stating what was not true regarding the number
issued of that edition. I charged him with stating what was not true re-
garding the corrections made on it ; and I charged him with mistaking the
National Bible Society for the Scottish Bible Society — a blunder perfectly
inexcusable in the case of a man writing a historical account of the Gaelic
Bible. When Dr Masson either proves or retracts his statements, I shall
take notice of the other parts of his last letter. — Yours faithfully,
EDINBUBGH, 1st Sept. 1879. THOS. MACLAUCHLAN.
462 THE CELTIC MAGAZIKE.
KEPLY TO DR MACLAUCHLAN.
TO THE EDITOR OP THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
SIB, — I have no desire to interfere between combatants so well
matched as the two Edinburgh Gaelic doctors, but I cannot allow a state-
ment in Dr Maclauchlan's letter to pass unnoticed, as it is opposed
to facts which I published some years ago, in the correspond-
ence referred to in my former letter. The statement is as follows : — " I
know that Dr Clerk and I corrected the misprints in the 1860 edition,
and that the edition of 1868 appeared with these corrections, of which
very few were required."
In reply to the words that " very few corrections were required," I
take the liberty of making the following quotation from a letter I pub-
lished in the Edinburgh Courant in October 1870, and to every statement
of which I now adhere : —
" Mr Clerk admits [in a letter in the Cmirant] that the edition of 1860
' has several typographical errors, and some bad constructions, to be par-
alleled, however, by hundreds in that of '26.' I have already stated that
the errors and anomalies which have been introduced into the edition of
1860, and which do not exist in any other edition, may be counted
literally by thousands. Of the errors I have given specimens [in previous
letters], and I am prepared to give as many additional specimens as Mr
Clerk may desire. At the National Bible Society's request, I submitted
some time ago extensive lists of errors and anomalies detected in that
edition to an eminent Gaelic scholar, and his report to the society fully
confirms my statements. Many of the errors affect the meaning of the
passages in which they occur.
" Mr Clerk has stated that * very many ' of the errors of ' the edition
of 1860 have been corrected in subsequent editions' (impressions?),
which is an admission that the errors of the first impression were ' very
many.' The following specimens of alterations introduced into the last
impression show that it is not better than its predecessors, and that the
money spent by the society in introducing erroneous alterations into
stereotyped plates might have been more profitably used in preparing a
revised reprint of the authorised edition : —
" John xix. 29. For ' soitheach Ian f lona gheire,' an obvious error
introduced by Dr Maclauchlan and Mr Clerk into the edition of 1860,
' soitheach Ian de f hlona ge*ur," which is equally erroneous, has been sub-
stituted in the last impression, and an additional error has been introduced
into the same verse by changing dhoibh-san into dhiobh-san.
"Is. xxvi 18. For <bha sin ann an teanntachd,' an obvious error in-
troduced into the edition of 1860, ' dha sinn ann an teanntachd/ which
has no sense, has been substituted in the last impression.
"Mark xiii. 11. For 'ro-churam,' which is correct, ' ro-churan,' a
word which does not exist in Gaelic, has been substituted.
"Is. xxv. 7. For ' comdachadh,' an error in the edition of 1860, ' com-
dhdachadh,' which is still worse, has been substituted.
"Jer. xxx. 18. For 'lacoib,' which is correct, 'lacipb,' an obvious
error, has been substituted.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 463
" Mark xiv. 4. For ' an t-anna-caitheadh so air an olaidh,' an error
introduced into the edition of 1860, ' an t-ana-caitheadh os air an olaidh,'
which is still worse, has been substituted.
" To these specimens, none of which exists in the authorised edition, I
might add many more.
" Many of the alterations introduced into the last impression are ob-
jectionable on other grounds. In some places two distinct words are run
into each other, and appear now as one word, as ' neachann ' (Lam i. 21);
'iarraidho' (Judg. i. 14); cheannleolaidh ' (Math, xxvl, heading);
'teachdaira' (2 Kings vi. 33). In other places large spaces are left
blank, where words or letters have been erased. In almost every instance
of attempted correction some of the letters are either out of their places or
badly formed. Broken letters and words are also very numerous. From
all these causes, the last impression of the edition of 1860 is certainly not
an improvement upon its predecessors."
The above quotation shows that Dr Maclauchlan is at variance with
his colleague Dr Clerk, in regard to the corrections which the edition of
1860 required; for, whilst he says that they were "very few," Dr Clerk
candidly admitted in 1870 that they were " very many."
But passing from the contradictory statements of the two editors, I
shall here give some additional examples of errors introduced, some of
them frequently, into the edition of 1860, and continued in the impression
of 1868:—
1. The editors frequently mistook the preposition a (to, unto) for a',
the contracted form of the preposition aim (in, into). Accordingly, we
find " a' m' ionnsuidh " (into me), substituted in several places (cf. Jer.
i., 11, 13; Ezek. xv. 1 ; xvi. 1) in the edition of 1860, for "a m' ionn-
suidh " (unto me), the correct form in other editions. The editors at-
tached so much importance to this improvement, the result of their mis-
taking the prepositions, that they introduced it in the impression of 1868,
into Is. lv., 5, by making an alteration in the plates of 1860 !
But the editors are not consistent even in their errors, for we have
"a' m' ionnsuidh " in Jer. i., 11, 13, referred to above, and " a m' ionn-
suidh " in the fourth verse of the same chapter. In Is lv. 5, we have
"a' d* ionnsuidh " (unto thee), the mistake referred to above as intro-
duced into the impression of 1868, but in the third verse, " a m' ionn-
suidh-sa " (unto me) has been retained.
2. The editors attach very great importance to an alteration which
they have introduced into Eev. iv. 7, where be6-chreutair " (living crea-
ture) has been substituted for " beathach " (beast). I have no objection
to " be6-chreutair " although I consider " beathach " (lit. that which pos-
sesses life) a correct rendering of Greek zoon. The editors, however, be-
came so enamoured of their " living creatures " that, not satisfied with
one — " the first " — they must have a full " hundred " in the first clause
of this verse, a license to which I decidedly object, inasmuch as it violates
the simple rule of Gaelic grammar, that the noun, which is plain after
ceud (hundred), is aspirated after ceud (first).
3. The common rule of Gaelic grammar, that an adjective when a
predicate does not agree in gender and number with the subject, but re-
mains always in the form of the nominative singular, was repeatedly
464 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
violated in the edition of 1860 in places (cf. Is. vi. 10 ; Deut. xxxii. 32)
which were perfectly correct in previous editions. The error in Is. vi.
10, to which attention had repeatedly been called in the joint committees
of the Established and Free Churches on the Gaelic Scriptures, was cor-
rected in the impression of 1868, but the error in Deut. xxxii. 32 and
similar errors in other places remain still uncorrected.
Some few examples of this error are found in the edition of 1826,
which remain uncorrected in all the impressions of the edition of 1860
(cf. 1 Peter i. 16 ; Lev. xix. 2 ; xx. 26).
4. In all the impressions of the 1860 edition, I find repeatedly the
possessive pronoun a (his) written before leitliid (such) with an apostrophe
after it, the editors evidently mistaking it for the article. This error I
find also in several places in the 1826 edition, but this must not be
accepted as an excuse for the editors of the 1860 edition mistaking the
parts of speech.
5. In Ps. Ixx. 4, the no»n toil (will) has been substituted for the
adjective toigh (loved), and, thus, "le 'n toigh do shlainte" (who love
thy salvation) has been changed into " le 'n toil do shlainte " (who will
thy salvation), a phrase which does not appear to have any meaning.
6. In Is. xliii. 23, the editors have substituted " meanbh-chrodh do
thabhartais loisgte " (the small cattle of thy burnt offering) for meanbh-
chrodh do thabhartasa loisgte" (the small cattle of thy burnt offerings).
When the editors made this alteration, they actually did not know that
they were substituting the genitive singular for the genitive plural, and,
thus, changing the meaning.
7. In Jos. vi. 21, the somewhat equivocal expression, " eadar fear
agus bean " (between a man and a woman) has been substituted for
" eadar f hear agus bheau" (both man and woman), which was the correct
expression in the edition of 1826. See Stewart's Grammar, p. 175.
8. In Jer. x. 25, air 'ainm" (upon his name) has been substituted for
" air t' ainm" (upon thy name), an alteration by which the meaning of
the passage is destroyed.
But it is needless to multiply examples of the errors introduced into
the edition of 1860 and continued in the impression of 1868. Instead of
being " very few," as Dr Maclauchlan innocently supposes, they are so
numerous that it is difficult to open a copy of that edition without the
eye alighting upon a mistake of some kind. Even the title-page is not
correct. It contains only one sentence composed by the editors, and that
sentence is a grammatical mistake, the editors themselves being judges
(cf. " chum craobh-sgaoilidh a' bhlobuill" (title-page), with " fear-coimh-
ead Israeli" in Ps. cxxi. 4).
The correction in Ps. cxxi. 4, is so remarkable that it deserves to be
noticed, especially when we find only a few pages further on (Cant. v. 7)
a similar error uncorrected. The explanation of this anomaly seems to be
that, having found " fear-coimhid Israeli" pointed out as an error in
Stewart's Grammar (p. 169), the editors adopted Stewart's correction with-
out having clearly understood the principle on which it is based. They,
therefore, failed to apply the principle in instances not pointed out as
violations of it.
Dr Maclauchlan refers, with evident satisfaction, to the extensive cir-
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 465
culation in the Highlands of the edition of 1860, in which it is recorded,
among other remarkable things, that Eebekah carried in her womb, not
twins [leth-aona], as had always been believed, but the " half of one "
child [leth-aoin] (Gen. xxv. 24); that the "nobleman" or "judge" [mor-
fhear] rising with the light killeth the poor and needy (Job. xxiv. 14);
that " the hundred living creatures" [" an ceud be6-chreutair"] were like
a lion (Eev. iv. 7); and that Jehoshaphat " made ships" of wood or some
other material called "Tharshish" [" Einn lehosaphat long an de Tharsis"]
" to go to Ophir for gold" (1 Kings xxii 48). He has not not, however,
told your readers anything about the way in which the circulation has
been promoted, and, therefore, I may be permitted to add the following ex-
tract from the letter from which I have already quoted, with the view of
furnishing some information on that point : —
" It cannot be denied that this edition had been so secretly prepared
and issued that nothing was known about it until after it was put into
circulation. It bears on its title-page, as I stated in my first letter, the
imprimatur of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, although
it is confessedly different from the edition which the Assembly authorised.
It has been extensively circulated in the Highlands and Islands by the
society's agents, who do not inform the people that it is not a reprint of
the authorised edition, and the people buy it without any knowledge of
the extent and character of the alterations which have been introduced
into it, until, in the course of perusing it, they discover that, to use the
words of some of themselves, ' it is not the Bible to which they had been
accustomed.'
" The words, ' New and Eevised Edition of the Edinburgh Bible
Society,' which were printed in smaller type, under the words, ' Issued
by Authority of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland,' on the
title-page of the first impression, disappeared altogether, as acknowledged
by Mr Clerk, from the title-page of the second impression, which was
issued without any mark whatever to indicate that it was not a mere
reprint of the authorised edition. In the last impression, the words,
' Eevised Edition,' likewise printed in smaller type, have been put on the
title-page, but the words, ' Authorised by the General Assembly of the
Church of Scotland,' have been retained."
The practical question is, What is to be done to prevent the Directors
of the National Bible Society from spending, as they do largely, funds
contributed by the public to promote the circulation of the Sacred Scrip-
tures, in corrupting wholesale the Gaelic language and the Gaelic Scrip-
tures ? This I regard, both from a religious and literary point of view,
as a very important question, and I hope that a right solution of it may
be found possible.
I should, perhaps, state that I am well aware that some typographical
and other errors in the 1826 edition were corrected in the 1860 edition;
but the editors' corrections are so few in comparison with their errors that
they do not affect the statements contained in these letters. — I am, &c.,
ALEXANDER CAMERON.
Brodick, 9th August 1879.
466 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
TO THE EDITOR OP THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
Edinburgh, 9th September 1879.
DEAR SIR, — Hansard in his Treatise on Printing has the following as
one of what he calls a host of laughable anecdotes about printers' errors :
"The monkish editor of The Anatomy of the Mass, printed in 1561, a
work consisting of 172 pages of text and fifteen pages ot errata, very
amusingly accounts for these mistakes by attributing them to the artifice
of Satan, who caused the printers to commit such numerous blunders."
How far the same occult agency may have had to do with the " numerous
blunders " which your printer has committed in the two papers of mine
honoured with a place in this month's Celtic Magazine, it were perhaps
impertinent to inquire. But a few of these errors are so aggravating that
I must ask leave to correct them.
The sub-title of the paper to which you give the place of honour in
the Magazine, was clearly written, "No. 1. — The Caledonian Canal : 1792."
The date here is the key to the whole aim and purpose of the series of
papers to which this No. 1 was meant to be but introductory — the dawn
of a new era in the Highlands at the close of last century. But your
printer altered my clearly written 1792 to 1872, and so made nonsense of
the whole paper !
Two paragraphs of my letter in the Gaelic Bible controversy have also
been so badly printed that I must ask the favour of your repeating them : —
(1) "Dr Maclauchlan objects to what he is pleased to call my Miltonic
account of the Gaelic Scriptures Committee. That is a very small matter.
And if, in looking back to the ' copious eloquence,' and other unparlia-
mentary arts by which he succeeded for years in obstructing the appointed
work of the committee, he now thinks that they smell more of the
dramatis personce of Milton's caverns of woe, than of the demigods and
heroes of Homer and Ossian, I am sure I have no quarrel with him
about it."
(2) After stating that in the paper which occasioned this controversy,
"I carefully avoided the least reference to individual members of the
committee, or to their opinions or actings at its meetings," I added : "If I
do so now, be it still observed that I name only one who first named
himself, and that I unveil his conduct to the extent only that may be re-
quired to repel his attack."
And now, as on these grounds I have found it necessary to trouble
you with a letter, let me dismiss in a word a point on which Dr Mac-
lauchlan wrote with some emphasis, although, but for its being again taken
up rather tartly by Dr Clerk, I should continue to regard it as not worth dis-
cussing. I said that 3000 copies of '60 were published by the Bible Society.
Dr Maclauchlan corrects me by proclaiming that " altogether 14,000 copies
of it have been printed." My critic is here thinking of the several re-
visions of '60, '63, and '68. I wrote definitely and exclusively of '60. It is a
mystery to me how two acute and sensible men like my critics could
ever think of interpreting me otherwise. My words taken by themselves
cannot possibly be otherwise understood ; and they stand moreover in a
context which expressly separates the edition of '60 from the subsequent
and " corrected " editions.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 467
But really all this is idle and beside any reasonable purpose. The
point is, that the Gaelic Bible at present in use among our people, despite
the misleading imprimatur on its title-page, is wholly unauthorised. To
that point I venture respectfully to recall the disputants in this controversy.
Whether it be with 14,000 or 40,000 copies of this unauthorised Bible
that Drs Clerk and Maclauchlan, at the call of a great but irresponsible
society, exercising a practical monopoly, have interposed themselves
between the Highland people and the old authority of the Churches, is
not the question I have raised. Nor have I raised the question whether
it was right or becoming in them to take upon themselves so grave a re-
sponsibility, not only unasked by, but actually without the knowledge of,
the Churches in which they are ministers. Still it is open to me to
observe that if to distribute among the Highland people 3000 copies of
such a work be unwise or wrong, then surely it cannot mend matters to
say that a much larger number of copies has been put in circulation. —
I am, dear Sir, yours faithfully,
DONALD MASSON.
GENEALOGICAL NOTES AND QUERIES.
o
QUERIES.
CAITHNESS CAMPBELLS.— Of what family was William Campbell, Sheriff-Clerk of
Caithness about 1690 ? He had a son, who was also Sheriff-Clerk of the same county in
the middle of last century. Are there any descendants ? Any particulars as to this
family or any other Caithness Campbells will much oblige. MAG.
COLONEL READ joined the Spanish contingent, was subsequently Governor of one of
the Mediterranean Isles {? Malta), will any one kindly give any information of him if
living or of his descendants ?
THE KEV. MURDOCH MACKENZIE OP INVERNESS.— Will any one say wh» was the
father of the Rev. Murdoch Mackenzie ? He obtained his degree at the University of
Edinburgh, 30th May 1729, was ordained to Contin, 20th September 1732, translated to
Ding wall, 30th of July 1741, and was minister at Inverness from 1742 to 1774. M.M.
THB FORBESES OP CRAIGIVAR. — On a tombstone in the church-yard of Kilmodan
(otherwise Glendaruel), Argyllshire, there is the following inscription : — "Mr John Forbes,
a grandson *f the Familly of Craigivar. who died in the 91st year of his age, 1759 ; and
Sarah Robertson, his spouse, who died ia the 59th year of her age, 1728 ; and their son,
James Forbes, Minister of the Gospel in Glendaruel, who died December 27, 1769, aged
69 years." The said John Forbes must therefore have been born in 1668, and Sarah Ro-
bertson in 1669. Do any of your readers happen to know to what branch of the Robert-
sons this Sarah Robertson belonged, or the date and place of her marriage to John
Forbes, " grandson of the Familly of Craigivar ?" She must have come of a good stock,
for her son, James Forbes married, on 29th April 1735, Beatrix Campbell, daughter of
George Campbell of Craignish. D. FOEBBS CAMPBELL.
74 St James's Street, London.
468 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
COLIN CHISHOLM IN THE FOEESTS.
A PINE sunny morning induced me to emerge from the genial plains of
Inverness in quest of a breath of mountain air ; or, as an old Highlander
would call it — a dh-iarraidh Ian mo bheoil do ghaoth ghlan nam beaim.
Having observed a steamboat close by, apparently preparing for an im-
mediate cruise somewhere, I made the best of my way towards her, and
nearing her, I saw the name Glengarry in golden letters on her side.
" Good," said I, " could not be better, here goes to Glengarry." Without
enquiries as to her destination, I stepped on board among a host of
pleasure-seekers. To my great delight we were soon on the serene bosoiu
of the far-famed Loch-Ness, where the grand and varied scenery of the
surrounding district of Dochfour and Dores combined to throw its ini-
mitable shadow on the placid surface of the Queen of Highland fresh- water
lakes. Neither tongue nor pen can do justice to the grandeur of the
panorama through which the good Glengarry was steadily steering hor
course. After a few hours of most enjoyable sail on Loch-Ness, we
arrived at " Cill-Chuimean," a village, or town if you like, which may be
described as the capital of Glengarry, and commonly called Fort-Augus-
tus. All was bustle and hurry to get ashore, every one wending their
way to the stately Benedictine Monastery which now graces the green
plains of Fort-Augustus. I followed the crowd, airson toil na cuideachda
mar chaidh an tailear do Pheairt. On our arrival at the ramparts, the doors
of the monastery were thrown open before us. In we went, and were
soon regaling our eyes on some of the most exquisite stone cutting and
building in Britain. Passing through the deftly cut and carved cloisters,
our obliging guides, the Benedictine monks, ushered us into their magni-
ficent halls, extensive libraries, and spacious dormitories. Every object
of interest was explained and described in extenso for us. But, when
least expected, the bell of our good ship told that she had cleared the locks
and summoned her passengers, all haste on board. The kindness and
civility of this small remnant of the old Benedictine monks was the
theme of our conversation until I left the vessel.
Inclined to have a smart walk as far as Tomdonn, I took to the road
somewhere opposite Lichd, and crossed the river Garry by the suspension
bridge at Fiar-ath. In passing Lichd, and not seeing a human being
there, the sad question arose in my mind as to what had become of the
descendants of the happy people who occupied Lichd and the rest of
Glengarry in the days of Aonghas-Mac-Ailean, the father of the late
Hon. and Eight Eev. Alex. Macdonell, Bishop of Kingston, Upper
Canada. Some source of merriment occurred about a bag of meal in the
district, which Aonghas must needs commemorate (as was the custom of
the times) in a song, which begins as follows : —
Tba gillean og aim an Lichd,
'S fheaird iad aon poca n'am measg,
Dh'iarr ni'n Alastar gun fhios,
Lite thoirt do Challura as.
Ho, ho, ratbnil ho,
Hea, tea, rathnil ho,
Ho, ho, rathnil ho.
Companas a cheannaiche.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 469
At the north end of the bridge alluded to, the traveller by road enters
the forest of Droinachan. About a hundred yards after entering the wood
I was met by an army of horse-flies, one and all of which commenced
operations on me. Here it may be remarked as the common belief, that
these unpaid and uncalled for doctors are very beneficial to horses in as
much as they suck out the stable blood and enable the animals to gather
fresh blood from meadow or hill grazing. I gave them to understand
that their services were misapplied and not required by me, but all to no
purpose. At last I declared open war against them, and in self-defence
was obliged to exact blood for blood. No amount of slain on all sides of
me would convince my enemies that I was determined to sell my life
very dearly. Swarm after swarm renewed their piercing attack on me
while passing through Droinachan. But the brunt of the battle with the
flying columns remained to be fought in the centre of Glengarry. Here,
and for many miles further up on both sides of the Garry, the Glen is
thickly wooded with native pine, stately oak, and weeping birch, &c.
" Fraoch agus seileach ann cho ard ri mo cheann a's corr."
In this vast solitude of deer forests the combined forces of every
species of winged tormentors made a simultaneous attack on me, sucked
my blood, and blistered my face in the most unceremonious manner.
That I am now alive to tell the tale is sufficient proof that I had the best
of the battle, and I flatter myself to think that the next pedestrian who
passes through Glengarry from. Fiar-ath bridge to Tomdonn will find
fewer tormentors than I encountered. Having had a short truce my
thoughts involuntarily turned on the dilapidated houses and crumbled
walls on the south side of Glengarry. Beginning with Mandally, Pol-
anaonachan, Glenlaoidh, Bolinn, Laddi, Achadhuaini, Garidhnallach,
Badantscoig, and Doiredhamh. All these lands, with miles of hill graz-
ing attached to them, are now allotted to deer, with the exception of a
few sheep kept by the proprietor on two or three of the last mentioned
farms. And now turning my attention to the north side of Glengarry, it
is pleasant to note that the few houses on that side are superior to the
class of houses generally seen through the Highlands. Passing by Acha-
luachrach as at Lichd, another verse of the song already quoted occurred
to me, viz. —
Ge gann an corca 'n Achaluachrach,
Gba 'n fbuirich am pocan aon uair ann,
Theid e Mhunerigi suas,
'S bithidh fuarag aig machd Alastair as.
A breeze on a sunny afternoon enabled me to pass milestone after
milestone in quick succession. On turning a point I saw at a short dis-
tance before me, in a lovely green spot, what at first sight seemed to be
a splendid flower garden, newly walled in with what appears to be very
substantial mason work, all secured against the elements by lime and
mortar. On going up to its gate, and finding this circular enclosure to
be a place of sepulture, I prayed for peace and rest to the souls of all who
were buried in that spot, and also invoked the blessing of God on the
party who caused the wall to be erected around the ashes of the brave
Macdonells. Since then it came to my knowledge that Mrs Ellis of Glen-
garry paid for this work of Christian charity. It will protect this very old
470 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
sanctuary from sacrilege and desecration. This secluded and sacred spot
is dedicated to St Donnan — hence its Gaelic name " Cilldonnan." With
tliis short digression, I take again to the road and inhale the healthy air
that sweeps across Loch Garry. I soon passed Ardachy and Ardnabi,
and was reminded, on looking a little to the right, that I was passing the
birthplace of the celebrated Mrs Eraser of Guisachan, who flourished in
the eventful 1745. When a lassie in her teens, Mrs Eraser astonished her
lady companions by composing a merry song, commencing thus : —
Co chi, co chi,
Co chi mi 'tighinn,
Co chi ach MacPhadrig,
'S tigh le braidh Ardnabi.
Co ehi, cp chi,
Co chi mi 'tighinn,
Co ohi ach MacUiatean,
Lub ur a' ohuil bhuidhe.
Co ehi, co chi,
Co chi mi 'tighinn,
Shar mhic an duin' usail,
Teann suas a's dean suidhe.
Some years afterwards this Miss Macdonell of Ardnabi became the happy
Bantighearn of M'Uistean, the Laird of Guisachan. I could mention the
names of seven of their sons (I believe there were nine) and two of their
daughters. One of the sons, Rory, was only a week old when the butcher
Cumberland sent a burning party to Guisachan. Seeing the helpless
condition of the mother and child, the humane officer in command ordered
both mother and child to be taken out on a blanket before he set the
torch to her "Tighclair," as she calls it in the following plantive
stanzas : —
'Bhliadbna rngadh thusa Ruairi,
'S ann a thog iad uainn na creachan,
Gaol am fear dubh cruinn cruinn,
Gaol am fear dubh cruinn tapaidh.
'S trom 's gur muladacb. a tha mi,
'Cumail bias air aois na seachdain.
Loisg iad mo shabhal 's mo bha-theach,
'S chuir iad mo thigh clair na lusair.
I quote these verses simply to prove the burning of the mansion, the age
of the infant, &c. If I were giving a specimen of Mrs Eraser's poetry, I
would select the lament she composed for her son Donald, who was an
officer in the German army, and killed while fighting in Germany.
Another of the sons, Simon, was fighting in the War of Independence, was
taken prisoner, and died in a dungeon in the United States.
Being now within a few miles of my intended journey for the day, I
hasten to leave all intervening milestones behind me, and will trouble no
one with any more poetry in this paper. Arriving at Tomdonn Inn, I was
received by the worthy host, Mr Peter Grant, and attended to by the mem-
bers of his establishment in a manner that might satisfy the Prince of
Wales. The following morning I made an effort to pass through the forest
of Glencuaich, by the parliamentary road of course, but soon after entering
this desert a feeling of ennui and solitude pressed so heavily on me that
I retraced my steps. If this be considered faint-hearted on my part, let
me plead guilty to that accusation, I think the man who traverses alone
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 471
a deer forest of sixteen miles in length, with an average of about eight
miles in breadth, and feels no emotion of loneliness must be strangely
constituted. Especially if he considers that all the broken walls he sees
about him were recently the habitations of a race of men, not second to
any other in the kingdom. Let him also recollect that the produce
of all the lands and grazings he sees far off and near at hand, was, till
recently, secured in some way to benefit man, and not allowed to rot
where it grows. With the intention of recurring again to this part of
the forest before closing this paper, I pass on northwards by the road to
Glenluine. This glen, of some miles in length and breadth, is also
added to the deer forest of Glencuaich, I pass through this extensive glen
without seeing a human being but one solitary person at a long distance
off cutting grass. Passing the height of Mam-Chluaini and entering this
third glen, which is also added lately to the forest of Glencuaich, the
distance between Tomdonn and Cluny House is over ten miles, which
may be taken as the breadth of the forest alluded to at that end, and
passing the bridge across the river that feeds Loch Cluny, I come to a
sheep farm which is said to be upwards of sixteen miles in length. Here
is a comfortable old inn and drove stance, kept by a sensible man whose
name I forget, and who succeeds in making a traveller very comfortable
for the night.
Next morning I left rather early in order to be in good time that
night at Dornie — a distance of about twenty-five miles. On leaving Cluny
Inn, the traveller, by road, passes on the north side of the Glen, still
faced on the south by the Cluny portion of the forest of Glen Cuaich for
a considerable distance, and descends through Glen Sheil, between the
large sheep walks of Eatagan and InversheiL Here one sees occasionally
a shepherd's house at long intervals, and the monotony of the road is a
little enlivened by seeing either shepherds or gamekeepers wending their
way with cows to form acquaintance with the herds either at Eatagan,
Morvich, or Dornie. Imagine the idea of men going such distances, and
how little harm it would be to have a bull through all the grass rotting
in these glens. Some short time ago I read that Mr Darroch, the new,
considerate, and good proprietor of Torridon, bought a prize bull and
presented it to his tenantry at Torridon. I never heard of a sports-
man or landlord before through the Highlands doing such a kind act to
his dependants. I arrived about noon at Sheil Inn. Here the traveller
can depend on a real Highland welcome from the landlord, Mr Mackin-
tosh, whose kindness and experience enabled me to shorten the way to
Dornie by some miles, where I arrived in the evening, and made a stay of
some days. My intention was to have returned by the Black Mount of
Lochalsh and through Glenstrathfarrar, but the experience of drovers and
men who used to travel through those glens induced me to keep clear of
deer forests, except where parliamentary roads ran through them, so I re-
turned by railway from Strome. I have mentioned one forest only, but
passed by, or passed through, about a thousand square miles of forests in
four days, and that only in a portion of the counties of Eoss and Inverness.
Let us take a cursory glance at these deer forests, and we will find
that they are completely divorced from the rest of the land of Great
Britain. They are sedulously watched by vigilant men, who, in obedience
to edicts proclaimed by their employers, are not always desirable neigh-
472 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
hours. The forests are now the main cause of the depopulation of the
Highlands of Scotland, so that they weaken, and even undermine, the
institution of the nation through the want of a numerous and healthy
rural population. The forests deprive the people of Britain of a large
share of their sustenance, inasmuch as neither corn, bullock, nor wedder
reaches the market from them. The forests circumscribe the sphere of the
arable land farmer, inasmuch as they deprive him of hill grazing to rear
and to feed more stock for the market. The forests endanger the stability
of the arable land farmer, inasmuch as they confine him to the produce of
the arable field only. The forests are the giddy creation of the landlord
class, quite in antagonism to the sound sense of the rest of the com-
munity. They stand out in bold relief as a species of defiance against
the will and interest of the nation. Yet they are shielded with the
strong arm of the law, and so long as they remain the bantling of the law
it is only common prudence to accord to them the bare amount of respect
required by the law.
If any person should feel inclined to doubt the accuracy of my state-
ment as to the area of land cut off from national purposes in the two por-
tions alluded to of the counties of Inverness and Eoss, let him take the
maps of the Ordnance Survey and satisfy himself. Let him begin his
measurement, say, in the glens of Urquhart, Glenmoriston, Glengarry,
Glencuaich, Glenluine, Glencluani. Let him then turn over to the Black
Mount of Lochalsh. He will find that the deer forests in that quarter
begin within a few miles of the Atlantic on the west coast of Koss-shire.
And where, gentle reader, do you think this section of the deer forests
terminate ? Just within about a mile and a half of the waters of the
German ocean, and an equal distance from the old Priory of Beauly — in
other words, these forests nearly extend from sea to sea.
In case the sceptic should be still doubtful, let him follow me to my
native glen, Glencanich, where we shall enter the deer forests by an iron
gate at Blaranlochan, and proceed on the south side of the Eiver Canich,
till we reach the march 6f Frianach, Carneite, and Mamsoul, a distance
not less than sixteen miles. Let us now turn down by the north side of
Glencanich. At Glaicaneorna we enter the deer forests again and pass
through the farms of Shalavanach, Leatrie, — far an d' fhuair mi muir-
neach m' arach — Carri, Mucrac, and West Inver. The best crops of oats
and potatoes I ever saw south or north used to be reared on these farms
when they were in the hands of enterprising tenants. They are all now
— with the large hills attached to them — the domain of deer. Let us
now wend our way back to Blaranlochan, and proceed through the woods
of Comar, the arable lands of Achaidhnan, the grazings of Aridhuiean,
leaving Beinncheiran and Leachdanrath far off to the right, we enter the
woods of Fasanacoile and Camalt, every inch of which is allotted to deer,
from Blaranlochan to the march at Achagiat. Here we come on a strip of
land that stands out as a landmark of common sense. It is a most useful
appendage (though some seven or eight miles distant) to an arable farm,
low down in the strath.
Now let us pass on to the boundary on the other side of this model
strip of land. It is now all under sheep, but they are to be entirely
cleared off in a month or two, and the land left for deer. Thus the
whole north side of the long glen of Aflaric, to the march of Kintail, will
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 473
soon be another deer forest. A portion of the southern part of this glen
is already added to the deer forest of Gnisachan and Cumhagi. If any
one should be still inclined to think that all these forests should fall short
of the thousand square miles I mentioned, let him bear in mind that I
travelled by rail on my tour through the forests of Achanaseilach, Morusg,
and Glencarron, and add these forests to the catalogue already mentioned
as existing in a portion of the two counties of Ross and Inverness. I
wish the reader to bear in mind that this is only a mere specimen of the
state of all the other counties in the Highlands. From the time that I
entered Her Majesty's Customs — 45 years ago, — and especially from the
day that I first began to compile the accounts of cattle and sheep imported
from foreign countries into England, I was under the impression, and I
am still of opinion, that it was a ruinous policy to cut off the lands and
grazings of our common country virtually from the use of man.
It seemed to me then, as it now does, that it was an 'unwise policy to
compel the British consumer of beef to pay £1 as duty for a bullock, and
fifteen shillings for each heifer landed from the continent, and our own
deer forests extending day by day and year by year, and all that earth
could produce in them allowed to rot where it grows. A residence of over
40 years in England inclines mo to think that I ought to know something
of England and of English feeling; and my candid opinion is, that the sys-
stem of foresting which now obtains throughout the Highlands of Scotland
would not be tolerated in England, and if insisted on in that justice-loving
country, consols and 3 per cent.'s would not be 'wprth three V^M*' purchase.
Having said so much, it remains for me
man in respect for those placed in authority over us. Thi , n<
of them interpret the laws by which the nation is guvoniod in uie most
conducive manner to their own interest. We think that the feelings and
interest of the communities over which they preside ought to be studied
and consulted. Our land laws were made by our aristocracy and landed
gentry : consequently they left it optional to the proprietor of the most
extensive estate in this kingdom, whether he shall have ten, twenty,
sixty, or sixty thousand human beings on his estate, or whether he shall
have anything at all on it. Therefore it is his own good pleasure he
has to consult. The land laws were expressly made for him, and while
he acts within the lines of these laws it is left to him whether he will
allow one acre of land to be cultivated for the use of man, or whether
he will convert all his possessions into forests. This is certainly not a
desirable state of things, and ought to be changed.
At the forthcoming general election, let every candidate for Parlia-
mentary honours be pledged to support a well-devised scheme for the re-
vision of our land laws. I for one do not see that our landed proprietors
would have any valid cause to object to a just, wise and thorough revision
of our land laws. On a former occasion this country paid millions of
money to the brutal owners of slaves. A few years ago even the vested
interests of a useless institution in Ireland were scrupulously weighed and
handsomely paid for. Will this our great and noble nation be less
generous or less just when she calls on a section of her sons to forego
some of their enormous power and unexampled privileges.
NAMUR COTTAGE, INVERNESS. COLIN CHISHOLM.
o 2
474 THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
pteatur*.
-a-
PRACTICAL LESSONS IN GAELIC FOE THE USE OF ENGLISH-SPEAK-
ING STUDENTS. By DONALD C. MAOPHERSON. Edinburgh: Maclachlan
& Stewart.
ELEMENTARY LESSONS IN GAELIC READING, GRAMMAR, AND CON-
STRUCTION, WITH A VOCABULARY AND KEY. By L. MACBKAN.
Inverness : John Noble. Edinburgh : Maclachlan & Stewart.
THE advocates and admirers of Celtic literature cannot fail to hail with
delight the almost simultaneous appearance of two excellent little gram-
mars of the ancient language of Caledonia. It is indeed pleasant to see
two young gentlemen, both adepts in the knowledge of their native
tongue, natives of different quarters of the Highlands, thus coming
forward, not only to the rescue of the language itself, but with an enthu-
siasm to impart a clear perception of the beautiful structure of that lan-
guage, in a plain, intelligible manner, to all such as may desire to know
it. Both grammars are sensible and seasonable contributions for the
cherishing and fostering of a language which has received no ordinary
attention in these latter times. Both are unique in their way, and may
be considered in a sense as twin -brothers, though of different parentage.
Both have remarkable points of coincidence, and that without the possi-
bility of collusion between the talented authors. Both treat of course of
the same interesting subject, but quite in a different manner. Both are
of the same size, the same price, the same number of pages, and of the
same date of publication ! It is, therefore, our recommendation to all
parties who wish to know anything of the Gaelic language, to put them-
selves in possession of both these little works. It is not our intention in
the meantime to enter upon any critical remarks upon the internal arrange-
ment and structure of these two acceptable grammars, further than to say
that they are both carefully and judiciously devised, as well as clearly
and distinctly developed. Mr Macpherson's "Practical Lessons," may
not be found so easily comprehended by beginners, and more particularly
by English-speaking students, as the "Elementary Lessons" of Mr Mac-
beau, simply because no key is furnished for the " Practical Lessons,"
whereas the " Elementary Lessons " have a key provided for them in both
languages. Many phrases, colloquial and idiomatic, are bristling on the
pages of both works, and many apposite examples are given in both of
the peculiar structure of the language. No doubt the benign countenance
of Professor Blackie will smile with complacency and delight over these
pages, until at last the learned gentleman will unconsciously commence
to sing —
Fhir a' bhata, na horo-eile,
Fhir a' bhata, na horo-eile,
Fhir a' bhata, na horo-eile,
Gu ma slan duit 's gach ait1 an teid thn.
We heartily trust that these excellent little works will have an extensive
circulation at home and abroad.
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE. 475
FOLK-LOKE ON WELLS.
IT was with no small pleasure that I perused the papers on " Northern
Folk-lore on Wells and Water," by Mr Alexander Eraser, Inverness, which
appeared in VoL III. of the Celtic Magazine. But, notwithstanding the
fulness of these papers, I find that two wells in the neighbourhood almost
of Inverness are omitted. This is more the pity, as some peculiar story
or superstition is attached to each of them, which makes them second to
none of those noticed.
One of the wells so omitted is on the Hurdyhill — a conical hill of no
great pretensions near Munlochy, in the parish of Knockbain, Black Isle.
The well is situated on the north side of the Hurdy, at a point between
thirty and forty paces from its base. Its waters, accordingly flow north-
ward, a fact which gives it, if we believe the Black-Islanders, additional
virtue. It is believed to possess extraordinary healing powers, for it is
alleged that it will cure almost all the diseases to which the human race
is heir. It is also an unfailing remedy for barrenness in cattle and other
domesticated animals ; and many a childless woman, it is said, by
drinking of the water of the Hurdyhill, became the mother of a nu'merous
offspring. And no fair damsel who ever sat alone for an hour after sun-
set on the brink of this well, drinking of its water, failed to secure the
worthy swain she loved. To sprinkle the water of the Hurdy well on
any creature or thing, ensured it against the terrible effects of an evil eye,
as well as the no less dangerous charms of witchcraft — two evils for which
the Black Isle is famed. Besides all this, the water of the Hurdy well
will cure children of all and every kind of trouble by which they might
be afflicted, unless they were " doomed to die." The modus operandi was
to carry the ailing child in the twilight to the well, at the side of which
it was left all night. At sun-rise next day it was removed, either entirely
cured or dead. There is, as all are aware, no cure for death ; and if the
child was found dead in the morning, as not unfrequently happened, that
event was ascribed to the decree of heaven, and not to any lack of virtue
in the water of the well. If the child was found alive in the morning, an
offering in the shape of a piece of ribbon, or other worthless rag, was left
on the bush which overgrows the well. We have ourselves seen this bush
literally covered with such offerings, which shows that not a few in the
Black Isle still believe in the efficacy of the Hurdyhill water. The writer
of these lines drank of this water and found it cooling and refreshing.
The other well to which I refer is " Fuaran 'ic Bhric bho lie Bhainn,"
or MacBriachd's well from the flag of Bereven. It is a short distance
east from the dwelling-house of Blackton (am Bailedubh), Nairnside,
parish of Daviot. But the wonder is how it came to that place, for it is
positively affirmed that it was formerly at Bereven, near Cawdor. The
ruins of an ancient place of worship may still be seen at Bereven, as well
as an old grave-yard which is occasionally used still The man called Mac
Bhriachd lived at a certain point between these ruins and Dunavin, one
of the ancient beacon hills ; and the well poured forth its clear, cold
water from beneath a huge flag close to his house. In some manner not
recorded MacBhriachd offended his neighbour, the Curate of Bereven, who
476
THE CELTIC MAGAZINE.
forthwith forced him from his house. And, in order to further punish
himself and his unoffending wife, he compelled him to stay on the centre
of a bleak, barren moor, near which there was neither house nor water-
spring, on the north side of the river Nairn, from which he had to carry
what water be required. Having gone to the river for this purpose one
day shortly after building a hut on this moor, he found the water so foul,
the river being in flood, that it could not be used. On his way home ho
exclaimed, " Oh ! be 'm baile dubh dhomhsa 'm baile so," (Oh ! this is a
black town to me), and hence the name Bailedubh, or Blackton as above.
" I would, however," he continued, " be quite happy in it if I had the
well that's under the flag of Eeieven," (Na robh am ftiaran ilia fo lie
Bhainn agam). On reaching within two hundred yards of his house he
was surprised to meet a clear stream of water rolling down the brae. Ho
at once followed the stream to its source, which he found close to his
house. He knew by the taste, quality, and clearness of the water that
it was the very water he so much enjoyed at Bereven, and for which he
had expressed a desire to have at Blackton. That it was so was demon-
strated on his going to Bereven and finding his late well quite dry ; and
no water has ever been in it since. Hence the name " Fuaran 'ic Bhriachd
o' Bhainn," as the well at Blackton is called to this day.
MAC IAIN.
SEI3STN OCH HO BO SEINW.
i
s
^
*=fc
'S gur muladach tha mi 's mi air
Chorus.
airidh chruidh bhaiune.
I
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Seinn, ocb ho ro, suiuu, SeiuD, och ho ro, leannain, Seiuii, och ho ro, scinn.
Key F.
:d | d . d : f | 1 ., f : s . s
Chorus.
: s, I r ., f : s | d : 1 ! s ., r : m
'S gur muladach sgith mi,
'8 mi learn fhin an tir aineoil.
Seinn, och ho ro, &c.
Cha b'ionnan 's mar bha mi,
M' an do dh'f hag mi Braigh Raineach,
Seinn, och ho ro, &o.
Le m' phiuthair 's le m' bhrathair,
'S cead bhi 'manran ri m' Icaunau.
Seinn, och ho ro, &c.
m ., d : m | 1, . 1, II
1, .1, : s, I r .,f :s | d II
'S trie a bha mi 's tu 'sugradh,
'S cha b'fhiu leat ach ceaual.
Seiun, och ho ro, &c.
Ann am both an an t-sugraidh,
'S e bu dhunadh dha barraeh,
Seinn, och ho ro, &c.
'S e bu leabaidh dhuinn luachair,
'S e bu chluasag dhuinn canach.
Seinn, och ho ro, &c.
NOTE. — The above is a good old pastoral song, well known in the Central Highlands,
and which our excellent friend, Mr C-Vlin ('hisliolm, Namur Cottage, Inverness, sings
in genuine Highland style. W. M'K.
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