34 RECORDS OF EXCURSIONS IN AYRSHIRE. 



branches forming a cup-shaped outline, a feature characteristic of 

 the mode of branching of an allied species, Acer macrophyllum. 

 A spindle tree (Euonymus europaus) in fine fruit was much 

 admired, the brilliantly coloured pericarp contrasting strongly 

 with the rich orange hue of the arillus on the enclosed seeds. 

 The Ayr is, generally speaking, a rapidly-flowing stream, so is the 

 Lugar, but their point of meeting is solemn and quiet enough, 

 although they owe this feature to the artificial dam above 

 Barskimming Bridge. Near this a "late plant" of the barren 

 strawberry (Potentilla Fragariastruni), in full flower, was observed. 



After passing the hamlet of Roadingloft at some distance, part 

 of the Lugar Valley was traversed, and red rocks, similar to those 

 seen at Barskimming, were observed. Here the Lugar has cut 

 a deep narrow ravine through the red rocks, and the section is 

 supplemented by an exposure of the trap series under them. 



Near Auchinleck House gardens a finely-grown spreading 

 Spanish chestnut (Casfanea vulgaris) was measured, the trunk 

 being 13 feet in girth at 4 feet 9 inches. 



A return to Mauchline was made by way of the Howford Bridge, 

 the celebrated sandstone quarries being visited. 



The district traversed during this excursion being an eminently 

 well wooded one, the brilliant autumn tints formed one of the 

 principal features of the landscape. 



Another Mauchline excursion took place on Saturday, 1st 

 September, 1894, the time proving rather unfavourable as to 

 weather. After visiting the extensive Ballochmyle red sandstone 

 quarries, and inspecting the stone-cutting machinery, the party 

 proceeded to King-en-Cleuch Castle, and afterwards to the Lily 

 Glen, but as everything was dripping with moisture little could be 

 done in the way of natural history. The "Big Brig" was passed 

 under, and a very interesting part of the programme was the 

 inspection of the curling-stone factory, at the Haugh, where Mrs. 

 Kay, the proprietrix, conducted the party through the works ; the 

 fine display of " ice stanes " on the shelves, the machinery, and 

 the varieties of rock used in the manufacture of the stones, 

 excited much interest. 



A return being made to Mauchline, the two fine Florence-court 

 Yews (Taxus fastigiata) (if indeed they are not older than the 

 specimens at that locality) in Netherplace Garden were inspected 



