I arion of AND INTER-ISLAND ADVERTISER. Onward, Skye! Queen of the West!

AUGUST 1951. Price 6d. No. 7.

tion to those who would, as in the past centuries. EDITORIAL dictate to you; force upon you conditions which have no relation whatsoever to that which you so urgently need. Generally speaking, an EdHorial consists of a This monthly newspaper/ magazine is by no review of current events, but this one, with your means a party organ. It is exclusively for the permission, by-passes these formal approaches to use of the people of Skye and the neighbouring the miBd of the reader, and instead presents to Islands. you in this issue a rough outline of the progress May you also allow me to state its forma­ made by this periodical and monthly newspaper tion, production and distribution involves a con­ or magazine. siderable amount of research. accuracy, bme and money ere it reaches your hands. In its first issue, which was launched upon the To keep it increasing in circulation, advertis­ public and the Island of Skye in February of this ing on a large scale is necessary. "The Clarion " year, an idea . was born, which since has proved has now a sound footing in the , and to be the foundation of a better understanding be­ its circulation goes "far o'er the sea.'' as well tween the people who, in many cases, live tens of as to the casual passer-by. If you have some­ miles . apart, have through the medium of "The thing you do not need-your neighbour or fel­ Clarion," been brought together mentally. low Islander may need it !-Advertise it in "The Clarion." It's a sure medium of getting in touch Nevertheless. it is felt that the readers are still with " the fellow next door! " There is no one in reluctant to voice their opinion on current events these austere times who can afford to have articles as it relates to them, in living, church, local and of value lying about, especially when a friend political affairs. We, therefore this month, issue a may need what you don't want!-" Do it that special appeal to readers to send to this office letters blessed minute; don't put it off, don't wait!"- or articles for publication in the "Clarion," with their opinions on the following subie.cts, chosen . as * * * it were, at random:- . A Dane, touring this Country, came in to 1 " The Evictions of ' The Three Men of Knoy­ ' The Clarior) " office. Intoxicated with the exqui­ dart.' " site beauty of this Island. he remarked that he met "The New Crofters' Commission and what a man at London Docks and told him he intended do you think would be the first imp:rovement to visit . The Docker replied that he that the new Crofters' Commission should sug­ could not see this country unless he saw SKYE! gest to be considered if we are to survive as an There has been an improvement in the road Island people and prosper as a community? situation in Skye by the recent reconstruction of a modern standard of the highway running In your Celidhs by the peat fire, many of you, through the village of , in . unconsciously and in a matter of fact manner, ex­ It should be a strong point with the .Skye press in mild discussion sounder views than any District Committee to continue to have at least commission ever dreamed, or will dream, of. You the roads in the villages of the Island brought up are men and women who live in Skye and know to this standard, as it al6o should be for the in­ exactly what will suit you best, and it is your life habitants of those villages who clamour for you have to live-not theirs! for these improvements. It, without any doubt, means to these villagers, an increased prestige, Therefore, " The Clarion " has been established and also tends to inspire in the young a pride to form a bridge to convey your side of the ques- in their homes and a place of habitationn. 2 THE CLARION OF SKYE

Circumstances may deprive some of schooling and of book learning, but none are placed in a 's Opportunities position in which they are deprived of the means of education if their mental faculties are only alert and receptive. Towns and cities are schools The good weather prevailing during the to the wise, but the countryside is a school to months of April, May and June, has accelerated the sage. See and hear all you can which is instructive and inspiring. Never miss an eloqu­ work on the Hydro Electric Scheme in Skye. The ent man who moves you as the thunder of the picturesque and homely village of Portree has now tempest. Emerson says:-" Eloquence is the become a busy centre of activity, where the throb appropriate organ of the highest personal energy." of industry makes one feel that here at least the It is to be feared that eloquence is almost a lost Hydro Scheme seems to propagate progress. art. Lorries can be noticed plying outwards to the countryside with loads of pylons that are to carry We have fallen back on a race of talkers. the light to all parts of the Island. ·In recent Interesting and convincing they may be-but, years, Portree has almost doubled in size, and ere still-only talkers! " To disparage eloquence," long will develope into the nucleus of a large says Lord Morley, " is to depreciate mankind." town if this spreading out continues. With the The fire which kindles enthusiasm in the listener provision of more power, Portree has every chance is the supreme element of power in a speaker. to become a centre where light industries will be It distinguishes genius from mere ability; true established-and why not! There are many of eloquence is " logic on fire." the necessities of life which could be manufac­ If it comes within five miles of you, do not tured here with the assistance of cheap electrical miss it! In the Gaelic tongue, it is equally im­ power. In Skye, there is wanted laundries, and pressive, and more so to those whose mother ton­ a large first class bread factory (with the usual gue that language is. Great Churches were built small-bread manufactury.) Why should there be into the stately piles they are by men who had 18 to 25 tons of bread coming into Skye weekly? great thoughts of God. One can. even in Skye, Out of your loaf comes a large bite to Nationalised build up in his mind great thoughts. Yes, in Railways and, of course, MacBraynes. A slaughter Skye and its quiet country side, these great house and a grading station is also wanted without thoughts can be turned into the practical by elim­ more delay. inating self, envy, and the lust for gold, for the ... pursuit of making the Island a better place than The sawmill, the renewed tweedmill, the two one has found jt. very modern garages at the approach to Portree This mearis YOU, and see to it that, day by from the West end, would ·pass as very modern day, you, however humble be your occupation; features in any South country industrial centre, however high be your office. that your main ob­ and it is to be hoped with the introduction of jective is a better Island for you and posterity.! a higher voltage from the power station now be­ ing built, that with it will be established similar * * * useful projects, which not only are urgently need­ It is gratifying to learn that in conjunction ed, but would prove to be a means incalculable with Hydro Electric Power in Skye, the Hydro Elec­ in value, especially in keeping the population from tric Board have established a scheme which further decline. not only js of great importance but also of the The fishing industry is also in great need of greatest benefit to the Island people. It is called a flip-up, as is also the need for fresh fish be­ the Hydro Electric Wiring Scheme. which provides ing more quickly distributed to the centres of pop­ the oppoFtunity to wire Skye homes on a seven ulation outwith Portree. years payment basis of the whole sum involved ... in the individual undertaking. Messrs Neil Beaton. There is no need for holding pessimistic views Ltd., Electrical Engineers, Portree, ar

ANOTHER APPRECIATION! Where a Prince and a (To the Editor. "The Clarion of Skye.") Maid Sojourned. DEAR MR EDITOR,-! have just read with great interest the first printed copy of " The Clarion of Skye" (June) that I have been privileged to see. An enlightening day was spent by many of My only regret in readfng it was that I could the Island people at the displenshing sale of only read the part in English, as the Gaelic is Kingsburgh House furnishings. The auctioneer too much for l?e as yet. was Mr James Porteous, Portree, who had a very It is difficult for me to convey to you my very busy day, and it is to his credit_ that despite real thanks for the extraordinary kind paragraph the large selection of antique and historic items you have devoted to me. I may only hope and put up for sale, he successfully named them cor­ trust most earnestly that I will be ·a worthy suc­ cessor to my famous ancestors in the leadership rectly, a difficult problem. nowadays. of the MacLeod Clan. There were many interesting purchases. but I hear that you have twin sons who are only paramount among these was the Gesto Collection four days older than we are. May I send them of Pipe Music. now out of pr~nt. This publica­ my best wishes for a very happy career? tion, which is rare in any case, is supposed to be the only one in the Island. In conclusion. may I offer you my sincerest congratulations for your enterprise, and I wish With a certain touch of coincidence and both you and " The Clarion " the very best of romance, many of his friends, particularly in success.-Yours very sincerely, Bracadale, and of his ancestry, are justly plea­ sed that this collection is now in the hands of JOHN MACLEOD OF MACLEOD. Ian Hil1eary, Esq. of Tayinloan Lodge, and of ETON COLLEGE. Gesto, a great grand nephew of Captain ;Neil MacLeod of Gesto. Captain Neil is the compiler ,, of the Piobrochs in the Gesto Collection, which A GLORIOUS HOLIDAY IN SKYE. are tunes tl!ltored by an oral method which is known to pipers as "Cainntarachd." (To the Editor, "The Clarion of Skye." ) It may be here mentioned that a piper, a DEAR Sm.-We have just returned Southwards young man born on his own ground of Gesto, to Cardiff and Cambridge, respectively, and may one Kenneth MacLeod, in 1838, appeared at a pip­ ·we, as true "Brythons," admit that there is no ing competition at Edinburgh, playing the tune, place equal to Skye for its remoteness. sense of "The Battle of ." The first prize was history and pre-history, beauty, and local pride. awarded to a MacDonald of Moidart. Captain We enjoyed the Mod and the scenery, and Neil MacLeod of Gesto, at that time the great­ developed a great liking for the music of the est authority .in the world on bagpipe music. pipes. A few more whiskies and we would have could not understand why his pupil, Kenneth Mac­ joined in the reels! Leod of Colore, Gesto, whom he considered the Furthermore, we are fully convinced that the kilt is the best dress for the male, and that the World's best, lost the prize to a MacDonald of Moidart. However, on being informed that the tartan skirts are the best for the female. And it needs the full figure of the Celt. Brythonic or judges were both MacDonalds. he concluded that Gael, to get the full effect of the glorious tartans. it was bias only ti,at could have wrenched the title from his otherwise famous pupil. -Yours sincerely, GRAHAM THOS. WHITE, In the passing, "The Battle of Waternish " was MORRIS STEWART ROBERTS. fought by the MacLeods and the MacDonalds, the 12 EARL STREET, latter being severely defeated by the MacLeods. CAMBRIDGE, 3/ 7/ 51. Hence the origin of the bias. clearly evident at P .S.-How do we ensure receiving "The Clarion the judging of the piping competition in Edin­ of Skye " in future? burgh.

There is an old Gaelic saying still to be heard in Skye when mention is made of a family who "THE STONE." resides for a long number of years in the same homestead and where the proprietor is known by (To the Editor, " The Clarion of Skye.") the name of his estate or freehold. The saying Sir,-Your article on the Stone is unreal. It is:-" Gesto's bed is too -old to be removed!" is no credit to have the daily press cull from it, it being merely an addition to the spate of nonsense, Which in Gaelic reads: -Tha lea badh fear Ghesto factual errors and erronious views published on the ro sheann air son a carrachadh subject. 4 THE CLAR'ION OF SKYE

It is q u ite misleading to say "it was sub­ seq uently removed to England where ever since it Clan MacLeod Magazine: has form ed the support of the chair in which the ceremony of the Crow ning of the Monarchs of the A Review. British Empire is per formed." Wha tever its previous history , legendary or factua l it was in Edward's time since and still to­ The Clan MacLeod Magazine for 1951, Vol. 2, d ay re~ ogn is ed solely a s the symbol of Scotland's No. 16, with a light blue cover containing an· n ationhood. No greater proof need be cited than excellent photograph of Castle, will cer­ the fact tha t is was removed to Engla nd as a symbol tainly " Hold Fast " the mind of the reader whose ! of the subjection of the Scottish people to an Eng­ privilege it may be to read through its pages. lish king. ', Nor does it form the support of the chair. It Those who have gone through the previous issues is p laced undernea th it to signify not pa rtnership in years gone by, cannot but agree that this one but subjection. is the best. The Chief's letter, by way of intro­ It is n ot strange, that the " Ceremony of crown­ duction, mainly dwells upon the MacLeod Day of ing the Monarchs of the British Empire" is mono­ 1950, and that in itself has been a most historic p olised by the Church of England and that the Scottish clergy " along w ith their coloured brethren event in the annals of the Clan. Could there from the Colonies " m ay, by gr acious invitation, sit be more touchi ng Highland friendliness than that in the pews. with which she welcomed her Clansmen from over­ No sir , the ceremony in its present form is seas, some of whom were never in Scotland be­ simply the crow ning of the King of England over, not fore but who " in dreams beheld the !" upon, the Stone. Although m any public bodies and reputable Here is a paragraph from a 17 year old Mac­ n ewspapers may have been impressed by your Rae in America. He writes to the Chief as fol­ sophist ry, I fi nd little if any worth in your article. lows:-" You ·who live in Scotland. the Mother of I a m not a t all impressed by y our pun on the word us all, have no idea how easy it is to lose a pre­ reign, nor do I think the Scottish people wish to. cious heritage such as our own. You are sur­ or h ave any right to, reign over England. Further, w hile I do not question Sir Walter rounded by memories that are visible through the Scott's translation of "Ni fitum fallum. etc., " it's Castle and ruins. We have nothing but pictures extremely da ngerous to build an argument around on paper and in our minds from those things a dictum tra nsla ted from . another tongue-the which our people have told us. You can TAKE original sen se is often lost. THE SCOT OUT OF SCOTLAND-BUT YOU'LL In conclusion, I would quote a dictum which h as not suffered at the h ands of translations and NEVER TAKE SCOTLAND OUT OF THE SCOT! " poets-" F acts are cheils that w inna ding." Get The article about Macaskills of Rudha An these correct and I am cer tain your otherwise ex­ Dunain is worthy of special mention, the detail cellent pa per will never again contain such non· is perfect. While space does not permit any sense.-Yours, etc., further observations, it i.s a publ,ication that "CORUISK." should be found in the home of every MacLeod. if not in every Highland home. as it binds the To the Crofters & Farmers past with the present. of Skye. Gillesbug Autrom: Skye's In the .July " Clarion of Skye," the prices ob­ tained for cattle, etc., at the stock sales in .June Celebrated Wit. wer e reported individually for the first time in the Island's history , which inevitably brings us in On a market day in Portree late in an autumn line with the Mainland . day, 60 years ago, the gentlemen farmers and landlords. held their annual celebration din­ If you will a gree that it will be of enormous ner in the Royal Hotel. The day was cold and benefit to you to cat a logue your cattle in the wet, a nd many of the poorer classes could not September issue of ' 'The Clarion " as individuals. get in as the staff was too busy, and. of course, the publisher will be pleased to do so at a flat "the class distinction " attitude was abroad! r ate of 2/ 6 each. in a column specially provided for the pur pose. Example:- Old Gillesbug, however, quite undisturbed, made his way into the dining hall. As he en­ J . M. D ., Lealt, .-One two year old ; three tered this exclusive chamber, they all made him six -quarter olds ; one cow.-(Cost to you 2/ 6) welcome. This w ill indicate to the Mainland buyer as Corry (in Gaelic, Fear-a Choire), asked him:­ well as to the Isla nd buyer, where and at what " Where did you come from just now, Gilles­ sale he can go to purchase the kind of animal bug?" t hat he requires. In one district. there are gen­ To which he answered :- er a lly more of one kind than the other ; the same " With your permission, Corry, may I tell you applies t o the breed. " The Clarion," which have just come from the bottomless pit!" reaches these buyers in Skye and on the Main­ "Tut. tut," replied Corry, " that is strong lan- land, believes t hat this will be 2/ 6 well spent. guage, Gilles bug! But what is there going on So n ow, send your Post al Order ; number of ani­ down there?" m als, type and age, and there is no doubt that ".Just exactly what is going on here: The the pr ice will rise a s a result. Note : It's 2/6 rich men are allowed to enter but the poor are each advertisement, not each animal. ~ kept out!

1-~. THE CLARION OF SKYE 5 Local VVeather for June, Lest VV e Forget! 1951 " The Clarion " wishes to put on permanent re­ cord the names of all Skyemen who la id down Total rainfall was 1.97 inches, the heaviest fall their lives on land and sea, and in the air, in the service of their country during the last or Second being .48 ins. on the 14th. Rainfall was well World War. Therefore, will relatives of the fallen below average for June, especially when compared please send name, reg,lment, number, and date of with about 4! inches in June, 1945. The highest death and where, to the Editor. These names will shade temperature at noon was 72 degrees on Tues­ be published month by month in this publication day 5th, which was the warmest day for three for one year. to ensure the list will be as com­ plete as possible. The heading will be "The Hall years. and the warmest June day for ten years. of Memory." It is hoped this appeal will have the This month, as a whole, was much warmer response it deserves, as in peace. we must not than average, having higher mean temperature than forget in our hearts these gallant sons of Skye. July and August of last year. It was also the They gave their lives for Scotland ; did not pause brightest June for many years, there being 20 days To count the glorious cost, when Scotland bade of sunshine. The highest temperature (in the sun) Her sons to strive in Freedom's holy cause, But armed to fight. Full soon they died. yet for the month was 103 degrees on Saturday, 23rd, made and on five other days readings reached, or ex­ A name of lasting glory ; gained· applause ceeded, 100 degrees. Tuesday, 26th, and Saturday, From all the brave; a fame which cannot fade. 30th, were misty. NoTE-DROUGHT.-An "Official Drought" is a period of 15 days or more. during which there is no measurable rainfall; e.g .. May 26th/June 11th, Hallin, My Home. 1951 ; June 1849. August 1947. February 1947; April/ TuNE-GALWAY BAY. May 1946 ; November 1945. Any Island records of the great Summer drought of 1926 would be in­ teresting. If you ever sail across the sea to Skye. All the magic of the Coolin Hills to see, ,, You will sail beyond the jewelled Isle of , D. A. MACLEAN, And anchor in the harbour of Portree. I

SCHOOLHOUSE, If you ever drive on Beaton's bus to Hallin, STRUAN, 7/ 7/51. You'll be catapulted right through , But you'll soon forget the terrors of the journey, When you reach the friendly roadhouse down in ... Stein . Then you'll take the lovely road that goes to Mr Seton Gordon. C.B.E., Upper Duntuilm. re­ , porting on the June weather, says that there were When the sun is sinking proudly in the West. r· 242 hours of sunshine; 2.18 inches of rain, and the Oh, of all the scenes to thrill t he heart of exiles. Maximum temperature was 69 degrees. that being This is bound to be the very. very best! on the 5th ('s . day!) You will wind the elfin way that leads to Geary, Along Knockbreck and Gillan's rocky shore, And you'll swear a vow that's ever present in you ... To leave this hallowed spot-nevermore . The Editor wishes to state that as the local JOHN MACLEOD. weather reporter to " The Clarion " has been on 198 Newlands Road. Cathcart, Glasgow. holiday during most of July, a holiday which will Also of Holdfast Cottage, continue into three weeks of August, weather re­ Geary, Hallin, Skye. ports will be unavoidably held over. "The Clarion " is very fortunate in having Mr Maclean's valuable service. It may not be known to many that Mr Maclean is a Section Expert Leader of the British Astronom.ical Association, and one of its JN the month of September, " The furthest North members. Each section devotes their observations to one special sphere-the Sun, Clarion " is to stage a GREAT Mars, or the Moon. There is a special section for Auroral and Zodiacal light, which has observers throughout the British Isles, and as tar South as ADVERTISING Issue. What have the Antarctic Ocean, and to the former Mr Maclean is attached. He has recorded and reported over you t.o Sell? What is it your want to 60 per cent. of all auroral displays seen in Bri­ tain in the past year, which, in astronomical circles, is regarded as a very high percentage. Buy? Advertise Early in the Month. 6 THE CLARION OF SKYE

3.-Please let liS have your book early in your Retirement Pensions week. We can then return it to you in time for you to draw your pension on your next How to Get the Increase. pension pay-day.

Retirement pensioners will be drawing bigger 4.-The Post Office will give you an addressed pensions fr om 1st September, 1951. Announcing envelope if you ask for one. It need not this, Mr Niven, Manager of the National Insurance be sta mped. Office at 5 Bosville Terrace, Portree. said that the standard r ate of r etirement pension for men aged THESE PENSIONERS NEED DO NOTHING NOW. 70 or over , and women aged 65 or over, would be incr eased by 4/ - to 30 / - a week. For married Mr Niven added that three gr oups of retirement women whose retirement pension was based on their pensioners should not bring or send in their husband's insurance, the standard rate would be bookii :- increased by 4/ - to 20/ - a week. Those whose pensions were not at the Men Aged 70 or Over, Women Aged 65 or Over. standard rate of 26s. or 16s. a week. The National Insurance Office would get into touch Mr N_iven said those pensJoners, men aged 70 or with them about the payment of the increase. over, and women, aged 65 qr over, holding 26 / - or 16/- pension books would have their books specially Those pensioners of 70 and over (men) or stamped at the National Insurance Office so that the 65 or over (women) whose present pension books Post Office could pay an extra 4/ - on each order, will have expired before 1st September and dated after 1st September. 1951. 'Fhe job of stamp­ those between 65 and 70 (men) or between 60 ing t hese order books would be spaced over five and 65 (women) who"se present pension books weeks. He asked pensioners to send or take their will have expired before 1st October. A new pension books to his office according to the first book containing orders at the increased amount letter of t heir surname. would be sent to them. If their surname began with the letters:-A to C.-Between Friday, 20th July, and Wednesday, Those pensioners who had recently received 25th July. D to H.-Friday, 27th July, and Wed­ a new pension book and found that the orders nesday, 1st August. I to N.-Friday, 3rd Aug­ dated after 1st S~ptember (or after 1st October ust, and Wednesday, 8th August. 0 to S.-Fri­ as the case might be) had already been specially day, lOth August, and Wednesday, 15th August. T stamped. to Z.-Friday, 17th August, and Wednesday, 22nd August. FRIENDS CAN HELP. Pensioners Between 65 and 70 (Men) and 60 and Mr Niven appealed to relatives and friends of 65 (Women). retirement pensioners to help them. He said " the The h,igher r ates of pension would also apply increase is very important to them and you will be doing them a great service by helping them. When to dther retirement pensioners who had reached the 1- age of 65 (m.en) or 60 (women) by 1st October next. a pensioner draws his pension during the week be­ The increased pension would be paid to people in ginning Friday , 13th July, the Post Office will give this group from l'st October, 1951, if they had then him a leaflet telling him how to get the increase. qualified for their retirement pension or from such You can help him-ami us-if you see that he lets later date as their pension was awarded. Similar us have his book at the proper time. Extra copies arrangements would operate for stamping their pen­ of the leaflet can be obtained at my office or from sion books. any Post Office. Pensioners in this age group with 26s or 16s. pension books should send or take their books to t he National Insurance Officer as follows:- If the:ir surname began with letters : -A to K.­ Between Thursday, 13th September, and Tuesday, Skye's Progress 18th September; L to Z.-Between Thursday, 20th September, and Tuesday, 25th September. No. I. ADVICE TO PENSIONERS. It was a great day for Skye when, on the 20th of "July, an ExpreS"s Bus Service from Portree "This is a big job and has to be done quickly," to Glasgow, and vice versa, was sanctioned by the said Mr Niven, " but pensioners can themselves help Traffic Commissioners at a sitting at Portree. to make it easier by £ollowjng these rules." 1.-Please check up before you let us have your The OFJer ators are Messrs Neil Beaton, Ltd .. book, t hat your home address on the front is under the management of Mr Hugh Macrae. The correct. Beaton firm was founded by a notable Skyeman. 2.-Please let us have your book in the right Neil Beaton, in 1920. He was the proprietor ·until week. The alphabetical groupingis have his death some years ago. A full report of this • meeting will, ,it is hoped, be published in the been worked out so that we get about the September issue of "The Clarion."-Onward !­ ~arne number of boo)l:s each week. Skye!

.r-,- ,. --~ . -----~- THE CLARION OF SKYE 7 Unknown Beauties of Skye GAELIC CORNER

SEALLADH FADA. PART III. Nuair a bha mi air chuairt ann an Uidhist a I have conveyed the stranger as far as Bide­ Tuath bho chioWJ. da bhliadhna dhirich mi Beinn na mhor of Watertein. The Jurrassic rocks are well Coille faisg air Baile Chairinnis. Ged nacheil a preserved under the basaltic lavas and can be seen bheinn bheag so ach mu thri cheud troig a dh' where they are exposed by the incutting of the sea. airde, tha i air a suidheachadh gle fhabharach air These rocks, even to the very simple-minded. are son sealladh air latha soilleir Foghair. Bha sui! evidence of the great upheavals that took place millions of years ago. In these cliffs are found agam gun ruiginn mullach Ebhal. a bheinn is airde limestone and sandstones on a grand scale, and in san eilean, ach bha an latha neo-chumanta teth. these are found the fossils of shells and remains agus dheonaich m\ dail a dheanamh /gus an of fishes. If this limestone was burned, as the cromadh a ghrian gu math. Ach b' araidh an limestone at Lochbay was when the major part of sealladh a bha rotham fuireach ris, oir tha mi de'n Dunvegan Castle was built, the mortar would ex­ ceed any known to-day, also it would be most effi­ bheachd nach tig a leithid ro thric. cient as a ground lime, or fertilise•r in other words. Anns a chuan shiar laigh Eilean Heisgeir le At the Ceannaich on the coast beyond Poltiel Thigh-sol~s ard mar chrann soithich. a nis na and about seven miles from Dunvegan, we :!lnd chuimhneachean dall dorcha air na laithean1Wjuair a trace of lava sheets being intercepted by an old bha bataichean seolaidh gle thric a dol far an cursa land surface where one finds traces of a primeval forest. The climate then, probably, was just as le stoirm is . dorchadas. Anns an Iarthuath sheas moist but was certainly near sub-tropical, in tem­ da sgeir dhubh-Causamal agus Hasgejr far am bu perature. tric a bhi glacadh nan ron. GlQ fhaisg air bun­ Though this series prefers to keep to the " Un­ sgoth bha a ghrian mar chearcall teine ag iathadh known Beauties of Skye," to leave out tradition gu tamh beagan a tuath air Eilean aonaranach and historical tit-bits would be a lessening of its attraction. Hiort. Bha e ard dubhlaidh eadhoin aig astar leth­ Ere we leave and as far as cheud mile. Bidemhor, the mind rambles back to w here we Bha beanntan na h-Earradh air an torradh suas. started. Rhu Vaternish, which, by the way, is earn air charn mar gum b'ann a ghearradh as seal­ beautifully commemorated in the song of that ladh cothromach don Ear-thuath! Troimh bhearna name. If ever there was a Highland or lsia11d countryside where l·egends, strange, uncanny eadar Rudha an Fhighideir agus gualainn Li a- stories. and beliefs lingered so long, Waternish ·1uath chunnaic mi na h-eileanan Siantach corr is ,, takes the honour. da fhichead mile air astar. Bha mi eolach gu leor air a bh\ faicinn Rudha Huinish agus beannta~ (To be continued). Eilean a Cheo, ach 's beag a bha dhuil agam gum faicinn Tir-mor na h-Alba a Beinn na Coille! Ach gu ta chunnaic, Bha a chairt-iuil a tomhas gle, KILMUIR & DISTRICT CROFTERS' dhluth air tri fichead mile bho'm shuil. Bha sia CLUB. de beanntan Ghearrloch rim faicnn gu so.illeir, dluth ri cheile, agus anabarrach coltach ri <;helle. Thug iad nam chuimhne beaantan biorach Chiftnn­ tail. BE SURE TO ATTEND AND SEND YOUR EXHIBI'I'S Ra Leanntuinn. D.McL.

TO THE AN LUNASDAL 1951.-DIREACH MAR A BHA. Bha oileanach og a leudachadh air an jonnsach­ AGRICULTURAL SHOW adh ur mu na ghrein is na rionnagan ri bodach (0J>en to the whole of Sl{ye) coir aig an dachaidh. Bha an gille ag innse mar a bha an saoghal ationndadh gach latha gun sgur. TO BE HELD AT Cha do shaoil am bodach moran de'nt-seorsa sgoil­ KILMUIR SCHOOL and BALGOWN earachd ur so, agus so mar a fhreagair e air a shocair fhein-" Faodaidh sin a b'hi, ach rna bha e PARK, a dol mu 'n cuairt, squir e do dhol mu'n cuairt! "

On Saturday, l l th August, GLIOCAS AR SEANAR. Commencing at 11 a.m. (a) Se gaoth a\uath a sgaoilt!as ceo. (b) Ge be nach gabh nuair a gheibh chan fha igh A Prospectus. giving full particulars, can be nuair a dh'.iarras. obtained from the Secretary and Treasurer, with (c) Sui! cait air sioman cas circe an criathar. whom completed entries should be lodged before 9th August. (d) Se am builleachadh 'a ni an cruinneachadh. (e) Nuair a thig ri duine thig ris uile. J . MACDONALD. Secretary. /1? vlt P W-7 Hungladder. TIOMHSEACHAN. s Shuidh mi air cnoc 's dh'iarr mi e. M. MACLEAN, Treasurer. N a faighinn\ dh' fhagainn e, 's o nach d '­ . thuair mi e thug mi learn e. D.G. I.

8 THE CLARION OF SKYE

From "'l'HE CLARION OF SKYE" Gaelic Corner, GAELIC PROVERBS.-" Rough" Translation. June, 1951.1 Tra nslation. -A- 1(/f)jl ~ (, (a) Praise the good day at its ending. WELCOME TO SKYE VISITORS (b) He who is idle may think his own hand would be best at the helm. (Tra nslated by Mr D. A. MacLean. Struan School­ house. Skye.) (c) A house with no dog, cat or infant-a house without pleasure or laughter.

(d) The skinniest cow in the fold gives the loud­ All hail to the Isle of your father s. est bellow. You who have c ~ . ef,r 9~';\f ' (e) A friend in couFt is better than a crown­ To gaze on the lf&the'S"&rthf heroes piece in the purse. And abodes of true friends well-esteemed. Some may have been our near neighbours Or dwelt in far towns till yestreen; But once you have crossed to You're greeted as la mbs of one ,.fold! GAELIC CONUNDRUM.

You who can follow the Gaelic- It is higher than the king's palace, and smoother Fair tongue of our own famous bards­ than silk. Be proud of your own mother's language, Be kind to her friends near and far. If you 1fst~~ the advice of your kindred A THOUSAND WELCOMES. And follo"'w with zeal in their path- You will never despise. its proud standing­ This month, we heartjjy welcome friends over­ The lead was its wont in the race! seas, who have com,e all this way for Skye ·Week. £.~~""'""-l We do so in Gaelic because we know that they respect our tongue and in it would prefer to be Visit the Isle at your pleasure, welcomed. But leave not a corner unseen! t.,.j.J.·.'i Each castle, each fortress and stiucllire""' Many of this month's visitors have never be­ Made famous .in j;(r-e'at days .of- yore. JW. ~~ •r f• ' • fore seen Skye; neither, maybe, did their fathers Sh.ow forth your birthright as true Gaels, or grandfathers thought they are of Skye descent. As was wont by the gallants through-bred. But love of country is strong in the Highlanders My hand, friends! I promise you welcome and we believe it is not less strong in Skye folk And kindness uniting us all. than in the rest. 1 ' -J..·ov-.Q.( ~ -~- Is it not strange that this patriotism should 16bur eyes will se ~ eautiful vistas­ live in the descendants of folk who suffered so Sur passed by norl'e under the sun­ grievously ere they left these shores? These were O'er mountains and heathery moorland, the people who were driven from their homes and The sky-searching Coolins upheave! their patches of land to make room for the horn­ Descend to the edge of the seaboard. less sheep. In spite of all that they forgot not To its bays and smooth creeks shingle-fringed. their Island and those of their folks left behind. And the sea-be it ebb, flow or full-tide- Will charm you with pleasure of dreams . We would wish to extend a hearty w&lcome to .(....' the progeny of such men, and all other friends sojourning amongst us at present. We hope th--at Lead those who would weep to old ruins, they will find the Island and its people equal to Deserted long since-to our !9Ps ;' ~~L all r eports, and that when they return to their Sore hearts may be saddened and yearning homes beyond the seas, they will do so with a At hearing the old tales retold. freshness of outlook and a keen desiFe to return No more shines their light in the gloaming once more to view tlae Isle of Skye. Through warm. starry windows·, undimmed ; Tall thistles, deep bracken, now thrive, Where they sowed the good seed in due time! BY THE SEA Excuse me for trying t~ tell you Struan House, Bracadale How best you should spend those few days. There were poets well worthy their calling TEAS AND NIGHT ACCOMMODATION Who pr aised this Winged Isle in apt vein. THROUGHOUT SEASON. But I wish you good health and enjoyment 'Phone: Struan 3. Each hour of your stay by our side. Safe journey and happy arrival; " CLARION " PUBLISHED HERE. Farewell! and God's blessings abide! Also available at BRACADALE STORES. Ttl E CLARION OF SKYE 9

FOR SALE, WANTED, TO LET. OR SALE, Morris Lorry ; ex cellent recondit ioned F engine a nd other very reliable fittings; would suit for spar e p art s, or could be m a de roadworthy OAT FOR SALE 12 ft. long, in good condition , at little cost.-Apply, J ohn Lockart, Bayfield Garage, B well kept. Apply, Ma cKinnon, Post Office Portree. 'Phone, Por tree 97 . Buildings, Glendale. OR SALE, 16 ft. Decked Motor Boat; all maho­ OR Various Items Sold in these columns th~ F gany, on oak timbers ; seats seven comfortably F Advertisers wish to Thank Enquirer s. in two cockpits ; forw ard w heel steering and con­ trols; Scammell Marine engine ; all in excellent OR SALE, one Cylinder Churn (7 ~als . ), new order ;· £200 or n ear offer; f ull inventory speed 2 to F condition. Offers to Box 40 " Clarion." 25 m .p.h .-Apply, Dr Nicolson, Scullamus, Broadford, OR SALE, 1 Collie Dog, of good working strain ; by Kyle. F quiet wit h ch.ildren.-Apply, Malcolm Shaw, 7 OR SALE, one Small Boat. square stern, Larch . scorrybreck, Portree. F built in Loch Tyne. varni·shed ; complete with DOR SALE, Two Pairs of New Cart Hames; very oar s; wide floorboard, 13 ft. 6 in. overall; in im­ .r suitable size. Apply, MacFarlane Bros., The m aculate condition; a lways carefully handled ; Stores, Edinbane, Skye highest offer over £ 30. Apply, No. BB, Clarion Office. OR SALE, one Cart, ~ong body, without wheels; OR SALE, one Boat, 12 ft., square stern, with 4 F good condition. App~y, John Grant, , F h .p . Brittiania outboard engine, 23 in. shaft; Dunvegan, Skye. very reliable and in good order; engine might be OR SALE, Rexine Cover ed Couch; double end. sold separately; good reason for disposal. Apply, F One Sideboard, with Mirr or ; n eat size.-Ap,ply, Alex. Stewart, Post Office, Harlosh, Skye Box No. 50. " Clarion " Office. OR SALE, Motor Cyc!e. B.S.A ., 350 c.c., 1937 OR SALE, one good 'Motor Cycle Tyre, new and F model , in first-class order, price £60 or nearest; F never used, 21 x 300. App ly, Alex ander Mac­ Morris Commercia l, 2-ton, 1939 model, Tipping askill. Glendale, Sky e. Lor r y, in very good order, re-conditioned engine; of­ fers wanted. Apply, Neil N icolson, Glenhisdale. OR SALE, one Leather Horse Collar with Hames, Snizort, by Portree. 21 in. ; excellent condition. Offers to D. Mac­ F OUSES, Furnished and Unfurnished, wanted in Leod, Jotarder, Struan Skye. H Skye. Have you one? Only reliable advertisers OR SALE. one Set Cart Harness, complete, considered. Apply " Clarion " Office. F medium size, in good order. Apply, Norman Macdonald, Roskhill, Dunvegan, Skye. OUSE and CROFT To Let in Western Skye, from ,, H now onwar ds, for long period. This subject OR SALE, two Sets Cart Siiha!ts, complete with is equipped with modern c.onveniences and in ari F bridge and travellers. Apply, William Mac­ attractive situation . For further particulars apply Farlane, Muig Villa, Edbane, Skye. to Box 31, " C!ar ion " Office, Struan, Skye. OR SALE, two Oars, 14 ft. long; one Oar. 15 ft. ORRIS, 14.9, 1934, in first-class condition, pri-. F long, round; in splendid condition. Apply, M vately owned ; upholstery perfect, tyres new. Murdo Macleod, , Struan, Skye. Apply, Garage , Struan, Skye. OR SALE, one Overmantle, good condition, NE Overmantel. bevelled glass, new condition, F bevelled glass, oak; can be seen Bracadale dis­ O 4 x 3 ft ., £2 App ly, John Campbell, 9 , trict. Apply, Box 26, " Clarion " Office. Glendale. OR SALE, one Range, with Copper Boiler, self­ F filling, and top ; tiled back, three sections; good PROGRESS-IS WORTHY ANYTIME-ANYWHERE. as new. Apply, Box 31 , "Clar ion" Office. URE-BRED Tested Cockerels ; Buff Rocks and OR SALE, one Case Stuffed Birds, glass, 12 P Light Sussex ; Stock Birds for next season ; F specimens, unique collection, in go

Neil Beaton, Ltd., PUBLIC NOTICES. DVERTISE your Stray Cattle and Sheep, if any, A giving particulars of marks, in "The Clarion." Electrical . Engineers, OLIDAY ACCOMMODATION, now onwards. H near Loch Coruisk and Coolin Hills, commanding wide sweep of magnificient scenery. Apply, Miss Portree MacKinnon, Cnoc Bhan, ElgolJ, Skye. OR SALE. One Ber kel B acon Slicing Machine. OR SALE, 1 Net, new, splash ; suitable for river; F in good working or der; delivered free in our F never been used; price £10.-Apply, John delivery area. Apply, Macfarlane Bros., Edinbane, Anderson, Merchant, Royal Hotel Buildings, Portree. Portree. THE CLARION OF SKYE 11

TYRES-RECONDITIONED. AN SUPPLY ON ORDER-Lorry Reconditioned C Tyres ; superb quality, 32 x 6 H.D.; 34 x 6 IF: H.D.; Customers already supplied very satisfied. Apply, Nicolson, Bracadale Stores. Struan, Skye. You have anything FOR SALE, some-

body may want it. Try an advertise­ F YOU WISH TO TRACE OLD FRIENDS and CLARION OF I RELATIONs-try an Advert. In the "Clarion of ment m "THE Skye." SKYE." " THE CLARION " acknowl.edred letters of thanks for adverusera who have quickly sold articles through these columna. You require anything, advertise for it in ------HE EDITOR will be pleased to have visitors call "THE CLARION," a sure medium T on him, with their Impressions of Skye, for of reaching right into the homes of Publication.

the Islanders. ILL anyone lend " Brave Sons ~ Skye " to W Advertiser; failed to locate at any bookseller; ~nulne. Box 18 " Clarion." You have Accommodation available for VISITORS, an advertisement in "THE CLARION" will get you m ULLINISH LODGE. touch with the right people.

HIS Beautifully Situated Historic House, which ,, T was visited by Dr Johnson and Mr Boswall in1 You have lost trace of relatives or friends, 1773, has now been converted into a try an advertisement m " THE CLARION "-its circulation extends FIRST - CLASS HOTEL far outwith the Islands. and offers every Comfort. with Farm Produce and Good Cooking.

For The Sportsman " THE CLARION " is out to help you. Please help "THE CLARION" THERE ARE 27,000 ACRES OF by patronising its advertisers and using its SHOOTING and GOOD FREE FISHING. columns whenever you have an advertise­ ment .. 6-DA Y LICENCE.

All communications to be addressed to A. w. Nicolson, Straun House, Struan, Skye (Telephone All enquiries to the Editor :- Struan 3.)

A. W. NICOLSON, "The Clarion of Printed by the Ross-shire Printing and Pub­ Skye," Struan House, Struan, Skye. lishing Co.. Castle Street, Din11wall, and published by A . W. Nicolson, Straun House, Struan, Isle ox Telephone : -Struan 3· Skye, once monthly. 12 THE CLARION OF SKYE

~·---·-·~·~ ...... _....._...._..,,....,.,_,_,._,,...... _.~~ ...... _.~..._.-.,~...--..~ ...... ~ ...... ~ ...... ~~rt l l l l l KYLEAKIN l l l l I HIGHLA.ND GATHERING l l l These Popular Games will be held at l I l l Kyleakin, Skye, l l l l ON l l l l WEDNESDAY, 22nd AUGUST, 1951 l l Commencing at 9.30 a.m. l l l l l l l l Parade of Pipers and Athletes from Village Green to Games Ground l l at 9.30 a.m. l l l l l l l l SPECIAL APPEARANCE OF CITY OF GLA-SGOW l l POLICE PIPE BAND. l l l l l l l f CHIEFTAIN LORD MACDONALD of . l l PRESIDENT C. A. A. DOUGLAS-HAMILTON, Esq. ~ ~ I f l l M. MACPHERSON, l l W. PATERSON, l Hon. Secretaries. I l Kyleakin. l l l l l ~~ ...... ~ ...... ~ ...... ~ ...... ~ ..... ~~ ..... ,....~ ...... ,...... ~ ...... ~~~ ...... ~~ r