16G Field Meeliuys. 



On entering tlie grounds at Dorniont House, tliey were Joined 

 by Mr Johnstone of Castleniilk and Mr Smith, the gardener, who 

 was to conduct tliem througli tlie policies. Tlie object of the visit 

 here was to inspect the supposed original bed of the river Annan 

 — for that river now flows past Hoddani Castle, about six miles 

 distant — f<nd to ascertain the cause of the change if such were 

 the case. A large pond near Dormont House was first inspected, 

 for it was stated by some of the party that this originally formed 

 a portion of the river. As there was nothing visible to justify 

 this opinion, they proceeded along the supposed course of the 

 river until a point known as the Dormont Rocks was reached. 

 Here the rocks are supposed to have been upheaved by volcanic 

 agency, and it is to this that the supposed altered course of the 

 river is due. As the time at the disposal of the party was 

 limited they were unable to investigate the disputed point, so the 

 question was left until a future occasion for solution. 



From Dornock they proceeded to Kelhead Quarries, where a 

 couple of hours were spent in examining the different sections of 

 the limestone rock, and collecting specimens of corallines and 

 other fossils. Having partaken of a refreshing tea — prepared by 

 one or two ladies — they resumed their seats in the conveyances 

 for the homeward journey about half-past five, and arrived in 

 Dumfries about seven o'clock. 



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