26 
The view of the gardens from this spot, with the stately castle 
forming the background, was greatly admired. 
Proceeding next to the extensive fruit and kitchen gardens, 
and vineries, some time was pleasantly spent in examining their 
well-cultivated quarters, and the excellent crops to be seen on all 
sides. These gardens have long been notable for the abundance 
and high quality of the fruits they produce; and even in this 
untoward season, when many orchards and gardens display poor 
crops of fruit, many varieties were seen here in abundance. The 
same fruitful feature was observed in the vineries and other glass 
structures, which were all fully stored with the fruits, flowers, 
and plants in demand in the ducal establishment. Everything 
presented the appearance of skilful and successful management, 
and gave much pleasure to the visitors while passing through 
these extensive gardens. 
Leaving the gardens, the walk was past the ornamental ponds 
to the broad and handsome avenue, which forms the main 
approach to the castle. Here splendid trees and luxuriant 
shrubberies, arranged in an informal and natural manner, adorn 
the spacious carriageway on either side, and at intervals between 
them were seen widely-sweeping expanses of the park, with 
occasional glimpses of the more distant landscape. Fine healtby 
specimens of Abies cephalonica, A, nobilis, A. pinsapo, A. Nord- 
manniana, A. polita, A. Veitchit, Pinus Jeffreyii, P. parvifolia, 
and other choice conifers, were introduced at intervals among 
the broad-leaved trees along this grand avenue. 
The Members left the grounds by the West Gate, a handsome 
structure in keeping with the style of the castle, and proceeded 
over the Spey bridge to the railway station of Fochabers. 
Departing by train at 3.40 p.m., a good view of the country was 
obtained as the party proceeded on their way back to Elgin, 
The valley of the Spey presented well-cultivated fields and 
comfortable-looking homesteads until some distance beyond 
Orbliston Junction, when fine thriving plantations of Scots pine, 
spruce, and larch, occupied most of the ground within view, 
chiefly on the Duke of Fife’s estates, and attracted the attention 
of the Members. Nearing Elgin, the country again assumed a 
fine agricultural aspect, and the ancient Cathedral city was 
reached prompt to time at 4.10 P.M. 
The remaining portion of the afternoon was spent in viewing 
the ancient royal burgh of Elgin and its pleasant surroundings, 
