166 Field Meetings. 
On entering the grounds at Dormont House, they were joined 
by Mr Johnstone of Castlemilk and Mr Smith, the gardener, who 
was to conduct them through the policies. The object of the visit 
here was to inspect the supposed original bed of the river Annan 
—for that river now flows past Hoddam Castle, about six miles 
distant—and 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. 
