+ 
planted when of a large size, as an experiment, about one hundred 
years ago; and their vigorous aspect at this period betokened the 
success of the experiment. 
Turning off sharp to the left up the hill on the way to the 
Hermitage Wood, the largest oak tree on the estate was seen and 
much admired. Its massive trunk girthed 11 feet at 5 feet up, 
and its stately head rose aloft to a height of fully 80 feet. On 
entering the Hermitage Wood, it was seen to be planted chiefly 
with larch, ash, and sycamore. The plantation was formed twenty- 
five years ago, and has been twice thinned, the last thinning being 
done about four years ago. The hardwoods have thriven well, 
and promise to yield fine timber when they reach maturity. The 
larches have also grown well where not affected with “blister,” 
but unfortunately on the southern slope of the hill they are badly 
infested with the disease, and a number perish every year from 
its attack. On reaching the summit of the hill a magnificent 
view was obtained over the valley of the Forth, extending as far 
as the eye could reach from Ben Lomond to North Berwick Law. 
Descending the hill by a steep winding path through fine 
thriving plantations, the party again mounted the carriages, and 
after awarding a cordial vote of thanks, proposed by Mr John 
Methven, of Edinburgh, to the proprietor and to his representa- 
tives for their kindness, resumed the journey by driving back to 
the South Lodge. 
KEIR. 
Leaving Airthrey behind, and passing through the Bridge of 
Allan, beautifully situated at the southern base of the Ochils, 
Keir, the next place to be visited, was soon reached, and the 
policies entered through a handsome gateway. Here the party 
were met by Mr Young, factor to Archibald Stirling, Esq., the 
proprietor of Keir, and by Mr M‘Millan, forester, and Mr Lunt, 
gardener, who spared themselves no trouble in order to show the 
members all that was possible in the time allowed for the inspec- 
tion of this most interesting estate, which has been for many 
generations in the possession of the Stirlings of Keir. After 
driving for some distance along the grand avenue, a halt was 
called at the foot of a steep hill, and a visit paid to an ancient 
burial-place in a sequestered spot, closely screened from view by 
yews, cypresses, and other evergreens, appropriate to such a quiet 
