of Edinburgh, Session 1881 - 82 . 
761 
“ The granite of Carn-Cuinneag, in the main, is like that of 
Inchbae. We saw blocks of pure granite of the Peterhead pattern 
on the slopes of Cuinneag, hut the granite characteristic of this 
district is that which I have described in my previous reports. The 
summit of Carn-Cuinneag must have been splintered by some terrific 
agency, to account for the overthrow of such gigantic masses as are 
found on both sides (bLW. and S.E. sides) of the hill. The blocks 
descend in perfect cataracts on both these sides. 
“ If we had an experienced geologist with us, it would add very 
much to our pleasure in exploring these regions ; but in lack of one 
queries from you for further information will do much to direct our 
observations. — Faithfully yours, 
“ Wm, Morrison.” 
Extracts from a Memoir by Professor Dans of the New College , 
Edinburgh (a member of the Committee ), on the Surface 
Geolugy of Mid Lochaber , read in the Royal Society of 
Edinburgh on 6th February 1882. 
“ Boulders forming heaps or clusters are met with in the low 
grounds and also high up the sides of the mountains. Those in the low 
grounds contain sand and gravel ; while in the heaps on the heights 
there are boulders alone. The explanation most likely is, that those 
in the upland slopes have had the sand and gravel washed away by 
heavy rains. 
A typical boulder heap occurs near the foot of the S.W. slope of 
u Meall an f Suidhef* on the farm of Ashantee. So far as examined, 
all the blocks composing it differ from the mica schist rock on 
which they lie. They consist of different sorts, as granites and 
porphyries. The blocks near the heap are also granites and 
porphyries. One is of immense size, 13x12x6 feet. A large 
piece has been broken off, in the line of cleavage, by another 
large boulder which had fallen against it, and been pushed partially 
over the part thus separated. To the N.W. of this heap, are other 
great clusters, which look like little hills. 
* In English, “The hill for sitting on,” in reference to the practice of 
travellers to the top of Ben Nevis resting on it. 
