BOOK OF DOVECOTES 



disturbed. 



If this explanation be accepted it carries with 

 it the conclusion that the Scots were more ad- 

 vanced in the theory and practice of successful 

 pigeon-rearing than their English neighbours, 

 and indeed than their French friends. Yet it 

 is strange that the religious orders of both 

 Franceand England, skilful dovecote-builders 

 as they were, should seemingly have missed 

 this point. 



There is indeed an alternative theory, 

 which, much as it might have suited Dr. John- 

 son, is not one to hazard lightly, much less to 

 accept. Still, is it possible that, Scotland pos- 

 sessing more thieves than England, care was 

 taken that at least all the eggs should not be 

 placed in one basket; that dovecote-breakers 

 should be faced by two good sets of doors, and 

 not one only, if they wished to "sweep the 

 board"? 



From Liberton it is a short and pleasant 

 stroll to the beautifully placed ruin of Craig- 

 millar Castle, where, however, the small nest- 

 lined tower in the outer courtyard wall is of no 

 very striking interest. The nests have doubt- 

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