Page:Life memoirs & pedigree of Thomas Hamilton Dickson.pdf/20

 The young and inconsiderate always behold the fair side of the picture, while those advanced in age and consideration always behold the dismal scenes on the opposite side, and it makes an impression upon their disposition and visage, until many of them become insane, and commit suicide, and are glad to get clear of existence. While, on the other hand, the light-headed and inconsiderate treat every thing in a frivolous manner; therefore their spirits are light, their cheeks are blooming, and their breast happy.

After I left the school, I wandered about from one farm-house to another, because I was destitute of both friends and money: sometimes acting in the capacity of stable-boy and cow-herd. On some occasions, on account of the hardness of the work, and bad usage, without giving any notice, I went away. I herded often upon a delightful vale called Balmore Haugh, which, in extent, is from 200 to 300 acres, and is bounded by the river Kelvin on the south, and the garden and policies of the Mansion - house of Cadder, belonging to Archibald Stirling, Esq., of Keir, Kenmure, Cadder, &c. It is bounded on the north by the public road that leads to Kirkintilloch, Milngavie, Campsie, &c., and upon the west, in the distance, is seen the Mansion-house of Killermont, and upon the north-east is seen the celebrated hills called Campsie Fells. The soil of the vale is very prolific, and capable of producing any sort of crop, but apt to be overflowed with water. While I