Page:Transactions of the Geological Society, 1st series, vol. 4.djvu/353

 be assigned as giving rise to the lines of Glen Roy; and as the important geological consequences which follow the most probable of these theories, could only be deduced from a consideration of their extended connections. In thus describing them I have been in some measure compelled to anticipate some of the arguments hereafter to be adduced, however inclined to preserve the description distinct from the reasonings; and this for the purpose of laying a due stress on the facts of most importance, and of more effectually directing the attention to those on which the reasonings must hereafter be founded.

The first, and not long ago the most popular, nay the only hypothesis was that from whence these lines have derived their name of Parallel Roads. They were conceived to be roads made for the purposes of hunting, either by the Feinne, or by certain kings of Scotland, who were supposed to have resided at Inverlochy Castle, which is situated not many miles distant on the banks of the river Lochy. The arguments which are used to prove this opinion may be divided into two classes; tradition, and some physical appearances to be found in the lines themselves, combined with certain applications to the purpose of hunting, of which they are supposed capable. It is vain to inquire into the æra or history of the Fions, whether they existed at the time of Severus's expedition, or at a period prior to that, since rational antiquaries have given up the point in despair. Nor are the traditions concerning their connection with these roads, even if we admit their existence at some remote period, such as to demand any acquiescence in this conclusion. It is said that the hills of Glen Roy are named after the heroes or dogs of this favourite and poetical age; from Gaul, and Diarmid and Fillan, and the celebrated Bran. But this is a circumstance not