Page:Scotish Descriptive Poems - Leyden (1803).djvu/19

 In Rutherglen Mr. Wilson continued to apply himself ardently to the study of the classical models of composition, and prepared for the press that improved edition of his "Clyde," which is here presented to the Public. He had even circulated proposals for the publication of this poem, when he was invited to superintend the grammar school of Greenock in 1767.

I have now to relate a singular transaction, which I can scarcely believe would have taken place in any district of Scotland, but the West, so late as the year 1767. Greenock at this period was a thriving seaport, rapidly emerging into notice. In the beginning of last century, it consisted of a single row of thatched houses, stretching along a bay without any harbour. In 1707, a harbour began to be constructed; but the town increased so slowly, that in 1755 its population amounted only to about 3800 souls. About the latter period, however, it began to increase rapidly, and continued to flourish till the commencement of the American war. Still, however, its inhabitants were more remarkable for opulence and commercial spirit, than for their attention to literature and science. During the struggle between Prelacy and Presbytery in Scotland, Greenock, like most of the towns and districts of the west of Scotland, had imbibed the most intolerant spirit of presbyterianism; a spirit which at no pe-