268 Transactions. 



hedges of giant stature ami jierfect symmetrj', terraces and banks 

 of velvety turf, cunningly contrived grottos, lake and stream, and 

 statuary present at every turn new features that invite the visitor 

 to linger in admiration ; at this season the grounds are gorgeous 

 with the bright and artfully blended tints of the rhododendron 

 and azalea, while on their outskirts a long bank of the yellow 

 broom reflects a golden glow. At the joiner's shop they were 

 afforded an opportunity, through the courtesy of Mr Alexander, of 

 seeing the remaining fragments of the bedstead which was occu- 

 pied by Queen Mary during the few nights that she spent at 

 Terregles after the flight from Langside. These consist of the 

 woodwork which had formed the head and foot. They are of oak, 

 enriched Avith a good deal of carving, and two ot the turned feet 

 intact. The wooden canopy and some of the tapestry are also 

 preserved, and we were glad to hear that it is in contemplation to 

 have the surviving portions of the interesting but much decayed 

 relic fitted together again. 



Only brief halts were made at the Druidical circle and at 

 Holywood Church. At the latter place several gentlemen ascended 

 the belfry, but failed to make out quite satisfactorily the inscrip- 

 tion on the ancient bell — a relic, it is understood, of the Abbey 

 of Holywood — although they gave those who remained below a 

 slight taste of its melodious quality. 



Dalawoodie, as all Dumfriesians know, is one of the most 

 delightfully situated country seats in the vicinity, immediately 

 overlooking one of the prettiest reaches of the Cairn ; and the 

 spacious and picturesque mansion is in keeping with its pleasant 

 surroundings. Here the large party were hospitably entertained 

 by Mr and Miss Eimmer ; and they were afforded an opportunity 

 of examining rich collections illustrative of natural histoiy and 

 numerous artistic objects which bespeak the leai'ned pursuits and 

 refined tastes of the owner. Mr Eimmer is a distinguished 

 authority and author in tlie department of conchology, and 

 possesses a magnificent cabinet of British shells. Botany has also 

 engaged much of his attention, and the fruits of his industry are 

 apparent in a wealth of mounted specimens. Numerous fine 

 examples of antique oak carving, of embossed coi)pe.r work between 

 two and three centuries old, and of early art in other forms, add a 

 charm of their own to the elegantly furnished apartments. Mr 

 Eimmer possesses some fine specimens of antique furniture carved, 

 and rare old china ; and those who visited the Fine Art Exliibi- 



