19 
By the time the train left Forres darkness had set in, and 
during the rest of the journey the surrounding country along the 
“ Laigh of Moray” was hid from view. Elgin was reached shortly 
before eleven o'clock, and the Members proceeded at once to the 
various hotels in the town which they were to occupy during the 
Excursion ; the ‘‘ Gordon Arms” Hotel being the headquarters. 
SECOND DAY. 
Wednesday, 8th August. 
GORDON CASTLE. 
The woods and policies around Gordon Castle, the Scottish 
seat of the Duke of Richmond and Gordon, formed the field of 
inspection for the second day of the Excursion. The Members 
were early astir, and left Elgin by train at 7.35 a.m., arriving at 
their destination at a quarter past eight. The party were met and 
welcomed at Fochabers Station by Mr Charles Webster, gardener, 
and Mr John Scott, forester, on the Gordon Castle estates, and 
Mr William Christie, nurseryman, Fochabers, who acted in the 
capacity of guides during the day; their life-long acquaintance 
with the estate and district proving of the utmost value to the 
Excursionists, and making the visit to the locality most interesting 
to them in every way. 
Walking across the fine bridge that spans the river Spey, the 
noble entrance gate to Gordon Castle was seen deeply recessed on 
the left, and on entering the clean and well-built town a little 
farther on, the “Gordon Arms” Hotel was reached, where break- 
fast was immediately served. 
Before entering the grounds of Gordon Castle, the Members 
walked up the main street of the town to inspect the nurseries 
belonging to Mr Christie, through which they were conducted by 
the proprietor. The selection of forest and ornamental trees and 
shrubs was found to be in admirable condition, many rare and 
choice exotics being observed growing with a rich luxuriance 
seldom seen in more southern parts. Soil and climate appeared 
to be favourable to tree-life, and plants of every kind were 
thriving vigorously in this large and well-stocked nursery. In 
close proximity to the nursery stands the handsome educational 
