Page:A Companion and Useful Guide to the Beauties of Scotland.djvu/193

Rh inscription, "The tomb of Bessy Bell and Mary Gray." I plainly saw the marks of two graves, by the rising of the sod: the third, that of the lover, said to be at their feet, I could not find. These walls were raised, and within and without planted with all sorts of odoriferous shrubs and flowers, by the Officer above mentioned, who discovered the graves, unveiled the natural beauties of Leadnock, and brought them to perfection. The present owner of that sweet place, Mr. Graham of Balgowan, has greatly improved the farming part of it: but that where taste and sentiment prevailed is fast decaying, and sadly wants the parent's prop, who made it what it was, and far beyond comparison with what it is now. It is a pity Mr. Graham does not quit Balgowan, upon the boggy Pow, and gladden the Eden of Leadnock with the chief residence of an hospitable benevolent lord.

The carriage road to Leadnock from Logie Almond is a great way about; and the walks through the woods that were once made and kept open for the convenience of the families of Leadnock and Logie, are now entirely obliterated and choked by thick wood, briers, springs, and every obstacle that rude nature has combined to destroy them.