could distinctly observe its different parts, or convince myself
that what I saw was real. Since that hour, and the period is now
more than fifty years past, the recollection of that inimitable
landscape has possessed the strongest influence over my mind,
and retained its place as a memorable thing, when much that was
influential on my own fortunes has fled from my recollection. It
is therefore unnatural that, whilst deliberating on what might be
brought forward for the amusement of the public, I should pitch upon
some narrative connected with the splendid scenery which made so
much impression on my youthful imagination, and which may perhaps
have that effect in setting off the imperfections of the composition
which ladies suppose a fine set of china to possess in heightening
the flavour of indifferent tea.

The period at which I propose to commence is, however, considerably
earlier of the remarkable historical transactions to which I have
already alluded, as the events which I am about to recount occurred
during the last years of the 14th century, when the Scottish
sceptre was swayed by the gentle but feeble hand of John, who, on
being called to the throne, assumed the title of Robert the Third.



CHAPTER II.

A country lip may have the velvet touch;
Though she's no lady, she may please as much.

DRYDEN.