Page:Account of the royal visit of George the IVth to Scotland (2).pdf/12

 Scotland. The entire novelty of such a scene, at least in our metropolis, attracted an immense concourse of spectators, the expression of whose curiosity and interest could scarcely fail to enhance the mingled emotions of satisfaction, anxiety, and apprehension, depicted on the countenance of many of their fair country-women, who were borne along in unwonted splendour, to endure for the first time the glance of royalty, and receive, with delicate but proud submission, the familiar salutation which custom has prescribed for such an occasion.

At an early hour on Thursday, the 22d of August, the city presented a scene of extraordinary bustle, in consequence of the arrangements which had been agreed upon for his Majesty's procession to the Castle. The weather was peculiarly unpropitious.

About one o'clock the different public bodies, incorporations, and trades, had taken up the ground assigned to them, reaching from the precincts of the Abbey to the Castle-hill; they were in lines two deep, and in many places three.

Both sides of the streets were lined by dragoons and cavalry, stationed in very extended order; and the centre of the streets was kept entirely clear of all passengers.

The different Magistrates were seen at times examining the extended files which lined the streets, and prepared to exert their authority, had that been necessary, in preserving order. We also observed Sir Walter Scott, dressed in the Windsor uniform, walking up the centre of the street along with two other gentlemen, and, as he advanced, casting a glance of lofty enthusiasm