Observations on a Tour Through the Highlands and Part of the Western Isles of Scotland (Volume 1); Particularly Staffa and Icolmkill to Which Are Adde (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1811. Excerpt: ... ROSDOE. 35 it. Near the ninth milestone we passed Ross Lodge, on our right, the property of Mr. Colquhoun; and soon afterwards came in sight of Rosdoe, the seat of Sir Jamiis Colquhoun of Luss. This house is most charmingly situated, on a rich peninsula, projecting into the lake, so as to appear insulated: the ground is finely wooded, and a tower of the old castle, the habitation of Sir James Colquhoun's ancestors, and probably that in which the laird was murdered by the Macgregors, forms an excellent contrast to the modern mansion: some very bold' and rugged mountains compose the back ground; indeed, a more charming situation than this is seldom seen. A Little farther on the same side of the road, stands Carnstradden, the property of one of the ancient family of Colquhouns; and still to the right, on the side of a hill, is a valuable quarry of blue slate. From 250,000 to 360,000 slates have been annually exported from it. Many of them are sent down the lake, and along the Leven to Greenock, Glasgow, and Paisley, but the greater part goes across the lake to Stirlingshire This quarry employs about twenty hands. There is another on the estate of Luss, but not quite so extensive. Leaving this quarry, we crossed the water of Luss, a furious torrent, precipitating itself from the lofty mountains on the left, Star. Account of Luss.. .. VILLAGE OF LUSS. into the lake. Soon after crossing this turbulent stream, we arrived at the village of Luss, and breakfasted at the inn, but found the attention and accommodations very indifferent. This village is situated on a flat piece of ground, projecting into the lake, through the middle of which, the water of Luss passes, whose banks are beautifully cloathed with wood. It may indeed be observed, that wherever we find a p...