With Portrait of the Author and Illustrations DUMFRIES: ROBERT G. MANN, Courier and Herald Press. SANQUHAR: J. M. LAING. 1904. PREFACE. THE following sketches, traditions, and reminiscences of by-gone days were penned originally for the local press -some of them as far back as twenty years ago-solely with a view to rescue from oblivion much that is curious and interesting, and known only to us of the older generation. Several of the sketches were, at the time of their first appearance, reprinted in papers both at home and in the Colonies, and since then have been copied into other publications; and frequently a desire has been expressed for their issue in book form. In deference to this request the book is now put forth. The author is pleased to think that the picturesreproductions of pen-and-ink drawings by one of his sons-will prove especially acceptable-the more so as some of the scenes depicted present views not now to be obtained. The Genealogies, which form the second part of the work, are compiled from reliable sources; these, he believes, will prove highly interesting to local antiquaries. In the earnest hope that the book may afford the reader as much pleasure as it has given the author in its production, it is now placed in the hands of an indulgent public. 47 HIGH STREET, SANQUHAR, September, 1904. WILLIAM WILSON. |