Page:Shetland Folk-Lore - Spence - 1899.pdf/27

 Even the earth dwelling of man might be termed a hadd or hiding-place. Hence the name would signify the Finns’ burrow or hiding-place. Earth houses have existed in the neighbourhood, remains of which may still be seen.

It is also worthy of note that there were, and even yet linger, numerous legends in Shetland which may be regarded as of Finnish origin, or at least associated in the minds of old Shetlanders with real or imaginary beings whom they called Finns. There were persons supposed to be descendants of Finns, who were accredited with extraordinary powers. They could render themselves visible or invisible at pleasure. They could metamorphose themselves into the likeness of beast, bird, or fish. It is even said that they could assume the appearance of a beetle, hence we have to this day the witchie-clock and the tur-diel, two kinds of beetles. They were supposed to understand the language of the corbies or ravens, and this