S T A T E M E N TIN EXPLANATION OF THE OBJECTS OF

<&1)t CelticAND THE

MEASURES ADOPTED FOR PROMOTING THEM;

TAKEN FROM THE

R E P O R T S O F T H E C O M M IT T E E O F M A N A G E M E N T T O T H E G E N E R A L M E E T IN G S OF T H E S O C IE T Y , F R O M IT S

E S T A B L IS H M E N T IN 1820 T O J A N U A R Y 1830.

WITH

COPIES OF SEVERAL OF TH E REPORTS

o r THE

DISTRIBUTION OF TH E SOCIETY’S PRIZES,

1823 t o 1835.

E D IN B U R G H ; PRINTED BY STEVENSON & GO.

32. THISTLE STREET.

1836.

CONTENTS.

S ta te m e n t in E x p la n a t io n of the O b je c ts of the C e l t i c S o c ie ty , - - - - - - page I

P l^ n and C o n s t itu t io n of the S o c ie ty , as revised in 1836, - II

D ivisio n of the H ighlands and I slands into 14 D istr ic ts , 14

R e g u la t io n s regarding the Pm zES to be given by the Society, 15

Selection s from R eports of School Exam inations , 1823-24, 16 viz. Oban — D u r in ish >—.Cam pbelto n .

Do. - - - Do. - - Do. - 1825-6-7, 20 viz. F ortin gal — A r d ch attan — K il l in .

Do. Do. Do. - 1832-3-4, 27viz. A rdchat tan — K ingussie — Stornoway — I on a— I n v e r a r a y — K enm ore .

APPEN DIX, containing Reports o f School Examinations for 1835, viz. L ochgilph ead , page 1 — T obermory, 4 —. Coll and T y r e e , 6 — K ilm a n iv a ig , 9— South Uis t , 13 — D or­noch , 14 — L a irg , 17 — Pe t t y , 19 — F ortingal , 22 — K ilb r id e (A rran), 25.

Stations for 1836, 28

O f f ic e -B e a r e r s of the So c ie t y for 1836, 2»

STATEMENT

IN E X P L A N A T IO N OF TH E OBJECTS OF

AND THE

MEASURES ADOPTED FOR PROMOTING THEM;

TAKEN- FROM TH E

REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT TO THE

GENERAL MEETINGS OF THE SOCIETY, FROM ITS

ESTABLISHMENT IN 1820 TO JAN. 1836.

T h is Society was instituted in 1820, by Captain M a c ­k e n z i e , Gruinard, under the auspices of two indi­viduals — the late Sir W a l t e r Scott and the late Major-General D a v id St e w a r t of Garth, who have never been surpassed, in enlightened attachment to Highlanders, and enthusiastic admiration of the pecu­liar characteristics of that people.

The objects of this institution— the measures adopted for promoting them— and the public advantages ari­sing from the pursuit of them — will be best understood and appreciated, by attending to the Society’s Regula­tions, as matured by repeated revisals, and by tracing the application of the Society’s funds in those districts where their premiums have been distributed ; and. of these it is proposed to give a succinct view in the fol­lowing pages.

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Previous to the year 1823, the funds of the Society were too circumscribed to admit of their engaging in any scheme of extensive usefulness ; and it is not to be denied, that, in its early stages, the brilliancy of the convivial meetings of the Members, and the novelty of many of the elites of the Nobility and Gentry of the North appearing in the Metropolis in the garb of their forefathers, constituted the chief claim of the Society to the popularity it attained.

At the General Meeting in 1823, the Society voted twenty-five guineas of their funds to be laid out in the pur­chase of Prizes of Books, &c. to be distributed in a few Highland Schools, as incentives to assiduity in the pursuit of the elements of education attainable there. This was intended as an experiment; and limited as the scale was, that experiment succeeded so well, that, at the General Meeting in 1825, it was resolved, “ That one hundred guineas of the Society’s funds should be distributed in prizes, to the leading scholars at twenty-five of the most •extensive Highland schools.” It was resolved, that the qualification entitling candidates to compete for these prizes should be, “ attendance at a Highland school and further, that “ after the present year” they should “ habitually wear the Highland dress.” It was resolved, lastly, that the competitions for these prizes should take place at school examinations, “ previously arranged by ia Local Committee of the Society’s Members, with the Clergyman or Teacher of the district or parish,” and that the prizes should in all cases be awarded according to the decision of the Members of the Local Committee present at the examination, — they receiving the support, atid the assistance generally, of the Clergyman and Teacher.

Some resolutions for regulating the details of these ex­aminations were at the same time proposed and adopted.

It was agreed, that four guineas, allotted to eacb school, should be divided into three prizes: the first consist­ing of one guinea in money, and a silver medal from the Society (on which the name of the successful candi­date, that of his parish, and that of his teacher, should be afterwards inscribed), to be given to “ the best Latin scholarthe second, consisting of a guinea, to “ the best arithmetician; and the third, of equal value, to <e the best English reader and writer.” It was pro­vided, that in sehools where any of the branches of education above mentioned were not taught, “ the prizes should be awarded in their order to the three best pro­ficients in whatever branches were there taught.” And a general rule was laid down, that wherever two candi­dates seemed to be possessed of equal merit as to the special subject of their competition, the prize should be given to the tetter proficient in the Gaelic Language.

The results of the measures adopted in pursuance of these resolutions evinced that the provisions were well adapted to the purposes which the Society had in view when they were approved of. It appeared, that the encouragement offered to the Highland youth was offered in proportions well suited to the existing state of educa­tion among them; that it was offered in a shape ad­mirably calculated to excite and to nourish a spirit of honourable emulation among the pupils attending on the Highland schools ; and not less adapted to the attain­ment of an object, in its ulterior results certainly still more important, — the creation, namely, of a spirit of emulation among the teachers of these schools themselves, through the prospect and opportunity held out to them of obtaining some distinction, beyond the limits of their own school-rooms, and more especially in the eyes of the Gentry of their respective districts. Hope was now to be rekindled among many men who, originally well

educated, and entitled to hope for distinction in their profession, had sunk, or were sinking into a state of comparative listlessness and discomfort, in consequence of the remoteness and obscurity of their positions, and of the apathy with which they had often too much reason to suspect that themselves and their exertions were re­garded by their superiors.

Reports of a most satisfactory character were received from several of the Local Committees, which had been entrusted by the Society with the care of attending at the examinations, and distributing the prizes, for which their resolutions had made provision. The influence of special causes of hinderance, most of which are now happily removed, prevented returns being made in the first years from some of the districts; amongst those causes was one, in itself not only innocent but commen­dable, — the reluctance, namely, of the teachers to pro­duce their pupils for examination, before the ambition ex­cited among them by the first prospect of this distinction, the first of the sort that ever was held out to them, had had time to produce something of its proper and expected fruits. The boys themselves partook in this honourable feeling. Their pride and their modesty were alike called into action. The Society feel themselves entitled to say distinctly, that they have traced the non-appearance of the Reports in question, in the great majority of instan­ces, to this cause alone, — indeed, the Reports recently received from these very quarters in which the Society had to regret the greatest backwardness, demonstrate, that it was from such feelings they were previously withheld.

In 1830, the Society arranged a division of the High­lands and Islands of Scotland into Twelve Districts, and appointed Stations in each District, where the schools of the District should be assembled for the pur­

pose of Competition. Some of those Districts having been found too extensive, a new division has recently been made into fourteen Districts, of which the parti­culars are annexed to this statement; and the Society will be obliged by any suggestions for further improving their partition. It was at the sametime resolved, that the Society’s prizes should henceforth consist chiefly of books.

The Society trust enough has been done by them to shew the fallacy of a notion, which has certainly been entertained to a considerable extent without the Society, and which, they rather believe, has very erroneously found acceptance among some few individuals of the Society itself, — that the exertions of the Celtic Society are calculated to secure no other nor higher result, than that of promoting the use of the ancient Highland dress in the Highlands. That, it is most true, forms a leading object with the Society ; — and a word or two shall be said presently as to the propriety of its doing so. But the patriotic intentions and exertions of the Celtic Society point to, and have embraced, a much wider range of benefaction, than the attainment of any one object of such a description could possibly secure. They are united not alone to preserve and perpetuate national and laudable characteristics, but also for the promotion of sound education and sound principles among the High­land youth. Their patronage of the national dress of the Highlanders is founded on a belief, which few, they imagine, will venture to stigmatize as ill-founded or ridi­culous ; — that the best interests of the Highland youth may be greatly promoted, by keeping prominently before them the virtuous and manly character of those with whose names and memories the appearance of that beau­tiful dress is and ever must be associated, — and by recalling to their minds, wherever their lot in active life

5

may eventually be cast, the recollections of the race from which they are sprung, and the memory of the early years spent by themselves in the acquisition of useful knowledge within the country of their forefathers.

The Society are not in love with the notions of some modern theorists, who would have all mankind squared and polished down until there should be no more distinc­tion between people and people, than between the opposite sides of a modern street. They believe, on the contrary, that the preservation of national character and national pride, is the very best of all means for the attainment of universal good. In this empire, in particular, they cannot but see and acknowledge the beneficial influence which has been exerted over its destinies, by the ex­istence of the elements of noble rivalry within the body of one nation, consisting of many people. Were there a national dress in existence in any other division of the British empire, they would rejoice in seeing the use of that dress cultivated and preserved — and they do not perceive why they should be blamed for patronising a national costume which is universally allowed to be the most graceful now in existence anywhere in western Europe, merely because it. so happens that the other districts of our empire have allowed their old national costumes to pass not only altogether out of use, but almost entirely into oblivion.

One word more may be added. The’ British army contained, and will continue to contain, Highland regi­ments, distinctly marked out to be such by the Highland garb, — universally respected at home and abroad ■— and respected nowhere, where that dress is not respected also, as associated with their character and conduc . There can be no doubt that it is the interest of Scot­land, and of the Highlands of Scotland in particular, that these regiments should be recruited as much as pos­

7

sible from the Highlands. They take off a part of the surplus population of a land marked out by nature as a land of flocks and herds, which if not so made use of, must of course be diffused over other countries, and add to the strength of other empires. Their conduct has been uniformly such in peace and in war as to reflect honour upon their country; and indeed, as the excellent and enlightened historian of these regiments (now, alas, Up more !) has observed, it may be doubted whether,, but for them and their dress, the military reputation of Scotland herself would not have ceased long ago to have any separate and distinct existence in the eyes of Eu­rope at large. Is it nothing, therefore, to promote the use of the dress, in which Highland soldiers best serve their country, among the Highland youth ? Is it no­thing to secure the veteran who has served his country all the best years of his manhood in that dress, from the mortification of seeing it laid aside when he re­turns to spend the evening of his life in his native glen? The great Chatham found the Highlanders depressed in spirit, and disaffected to their Sovereign. His master- mind perceived the remedy. He associated them in kindred bands; he re-armed them with the weapons, and re-clothed them in the garb of their ancestors : he gave them once more a name to honour, and charac­teristics around which to rally ; — and by doing so, he at once converted them into what nature had ever meant them to be — a people inferior to none, either in loyalty as subjects, or in gallantry and devotedness as soldiers. That great statesman made an experiment worthy of his immortal genius. Shall others cease to act upon his principles, and to extend the field of its operation, merely because the success of his experiment has de­monstrated its justness and its power ?

The Society sincerely hope, that the crude notion

8

which has led them into these observations is now at an end. They are quite sure that no Member of the So­ciety will think the less highly of it, because he finds himself one of an Association of from three to four hundred Gentlemen, many of them of the highest rank and eminence in every department, united together for the promotion of the best interest of the people, in this interesting and important district of the empire. They are also quite sure that no Member who has not per­sonally visited the Highlands within the last year or two can have any adequate notion of the effect which has been produced there by the Society’s exertions.

The teachers of the Highland schools have hailed our appearance amongst them with the liveliest joy, and they have acted upon our plans with the utmost zeal. They see, in the measures adopted by this Society, the first opportunity that was ever afforded them, of effec­tually kindling the emulation and ambition of their pupils ; and through that they see the first prospect of distinction and advancement, as the consequences to them­selves, of their own industrious discharge of the duties of their station. The system of bestowing honorary rewards on those Teachers who have proved their own merit, by bringing forward from among their pupils a certain number of successful candidates for the Society’s prizes, has also been received by the Teachers as a new and most powerful stimulus to their exertions, and has led them as a body to fix their attention upon the mea­sures from time to time adopted by the Society, and willingly to keep watch over any truants from the So­ciety’s Celtic injunctions.

In short, from the exposition afforded by the Reports of what the Society has accomplished, and reference be­ing had to the arrangements for future operations, the So­ciety have no doubt, that when the nature of their views,

$

and the importance of their purposes are sufficiently understood, the Society will be joined by almost every Gentleman whose descent or property leads him to take a special interest in the welfare of the Highlands. And the consequent increase of funds at the Society’s disposal will, of course, be followed by a corresponding exten­sion of their labours for promoting the same great ge­neral purpose of which they have always avowed the

* adoption.The Society have pride and pleasure in acknowledg­

ing the acceptance which their designs have met with among the Clergymen of the Highland districts. Indi­vidual Members of the Committee have had occasion, and made it their duty, to converse, in the course of the past years, with great numbers of the Highland Clergy, and they have the high satisfaction to state, that they have found no difference of opinion whatever among these gentlemen in regard to the beneficial character of the measures adopted by the Society. They unques­tionably must be, from their habits of life and observa­tion, the best of all judges as to the means most likely to promote the true interests of the population com­mitted to their care. They uniformly and zealously pledge their steady co-operation; and express their con­viction that no scheme could have been devised more likely to promote these interests effectually and perma­nently, than the institution of a Society composed of such materials, and devoting its attention and resources to such purposes as ours. The Society certainly cannot consider this favourable opinion, and the support which has been received, and to a continuance of which they look forward, as its result, otherwise than as of the highest importance to the country, as well as to the Society.

Finally, the acknowledgments of the Society, and 11b

10

who may derive benefit from their scheme, are pre­eminently due to the phalanx of Noble and Honourable Ladies who, as Patronesses of those gay assemblages which met last year, and are to meet this year at the Balls promoted by the Society, have so essentially en­larged their pecuniary resources.

A new, a great, and a powerful instrument is in the hands of the Celtic Society. They look with satisfac­tion to the past history, and with hope and confidence to the future effects, of its application*

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P LA N A N D C O N ST IT U T IO NOF

TH E CELTIC SOCIETY,

As Revised,

1836.

Name and Objects o f the Society, and Application o f its Funds.

1. That the Society shall be called T he Ce ltic So ciety .2. That the primary objects of the Society shall be to pro­

mote the general use of the Ancient Highland Dress in the Highlands of Scotland, — to stimulate Education there by Annual Distributions of Prizes at the Highland Schools, — its views to be afterwards extended, as circumstances may admit to other objects, connected with the Preservation of the Cha­racteristics of the Highlanders.

3. That the funds of the Society, after defraying incidental expenses, shall be applied to its specific objects, at such time and in such proportions and manner as the stated General Meetings shall, on report of the Committee of Management, direct.

Office-Bearers o f the Society and their Duties, — and Manner o f conducting the Society's Business.

1. That the Office-Bearers of the Society shall consist of a President, eight Vice-Presidents, a Treasurer, a Secretary, a Comptroller of Accounts, and a Chaplain.

2. That there shall be a Committee of Management an­nually elected for conducting the ordinary business of the So­ciety, in which all motions regarding the objects and interests of the Institution must be originated, — the Committee to con­sist of twenty-eight Members, besides the Office-Bearers, who shall be ex officio Members of this Committee. Five Members to constitute a quorum, with power to appoint substitutes for any Members of Committee who may be absent.

123. That a Piper and a Porter shall form part of the Estab­

lishment of the Society, with salaries chargeable on the funds.4. That the Office-Bearers shall be elected annually at the

stated General Meeting in January.5. That the Secretary shall keep a Minute-book, in which

the transactions of the Society shall be regularly entered.6. That the Treasurer shall open a Deposit-account with

the Commercial Bank of Scotland in name of the Celtic So­ciety, and shall at no time retain in his hands any sum of the Society’s funds exceeding twenty pounds. The Treasurer’s accounts and books shall be quarterly laid before the Meetings of Committee and the General Meetings. No draft to be made on the Deposit-account but by orders of the Committee of Management, and the Treasurer’s drafts to be countersigned by the Secretary.

7. That it shall be the special duty of the Committee to audit annually, with assistance of the Comptroller, the Trea­surer’s accounts (in regard to which he can, of course, have no vote); -— to make the necessary arrangements for the General Meetings, and, in particular, to collect information as to the most eligible plan for carrying into effect the objects of the So­ciety ; — to digest the information received by them into regular Reports; and to lay them, along with a distinct State of the Funds, before each General Meeting.

8. That all motions intended to be brought before the Com­mittee of Management, and all incidental communications, shall, in the first instance, be transmitted to the Secretary, and shall by him be laid before the Committee at the first subsequent Meeting; — that the Committee shall, at the Meeting held by them next after the motion has thus been brought before them, resume consideration of it, and direct their determination to be reported to the first subsequent General Meeting, when the original motion shall be finally disposed of by the Society.

Admission o f Members.1. That Candidates for admission must be recommended by

two Members, who shall sign their recommendation, and be answerable for the admission-money; that the admission shall be by Ballot, at General or Committee Meetings, two-thirds of the Members present concurring in each admission.

2. That, in future, the Entry-money shall be One Guinea, the Annual Contributions 10s. 6d., and the Redemption-money

13

Five Guineas, including entry-money and annual contribution, with power to all Members to redeem for three Guineas, if the contributions previously paid% by them shall amount to two Guineas; and, considering the great advantages which have been derived from the services of the Clergy, in furthering the important objects of the Society, that Clergymen be admitted Members of the Society for life, on payment of One Guinea in full of admission and contribution-money.

3. That the admission-money shall be paid by each new Member within one month after admission, under penalty of exclusion from the Society; and the annual subscription shall

' be paid by the 1st day of February annually, by Members re­sident in Edinburgh, and by the 1st day of March by Mem­bers not resident in Edinburgh.

Meetings o f the Society and o f the Office-Bearers.1. That there shall be a stated General Meeting of the So­

ciety annually, on the last Friday in January, and upon that day the Society shall dine together.

2. That at this Annual Dinner the Members shall be dressed in the ancient costume of the Highlanders of Scotland — each Member, if of any Clan, in the particular Tartan of his Clan. Officers, Naval and Military, may attend in uniform.

3. That there shall be four Quarterly stated Meetings of the Committee, viz. on the first Monday of October, second Monday of January, first Monday of April, and first Monday of July — and the Secretary may, of his own accord, and shall, on requisition of five Members of the Society, call pro re nata Meetings, when thought necessary.

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D IV IS IO N of the H ighlands and Islands of Scot­lan d into D istricts , in reference to Competition for the Prizes given by the C e ltic Society for promoting Education in that part of the Country.

1. Kintyre, with the Islands of Islay and Jura.2. The Tract of Country in which is comprehended the

Burgh of Oban, Strontian, Ardchattan, and Dalmally.3. Mull, Morvern, Iona, Coll, and Tiree.4. The Tract of Country which comprehends Fort-William,

Ballachellish, and Arisaig, with the Islands of Eig, Hum, Canna, Muick, &c.

5. The Parishes of North and South Uist, Barra, Harris,and Benbecula.

6. The Islands of Lewis and Skye.7. The West Coast of Ross-shire.8. The Counties of Sutherland and Caithness.9. The Eastern and Middle Districts of Ross-shire, and the

County of Cromarty.10. Inverness-shire, and that part of Nairnshire where Gaelic

is spoken.11. That part of Banff and Aberdeen-shires in which is com­

prehended the Village of Grantoun, the Parishes of Kirkmichael, Inveraven, Tomintoul, and Braemar, and the Highland parts of Kincardine-O’Neil.

12. That part of Perthshire in which is comprehended theancient City of Dunkeld, the Parishes of Fortingal, Dull, Weeni, Moulin, Blair Athole, and Kenmore.

13. That part of Perthshire which comprehends the Villages ofCallender and Lochcarnhead, the Parishes of Crieff, Comrie, Muthil, and Killin.

14. Cowal, with the Islands of Bute and Arran, the Burgh ofInverary, and both sides of Lochfine.

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REGULATIONS regarding the PRIZES to be given by the C e l t i c S o c ie t y , agreed to at a G e n e r a l M e e t in g of the S o c ie t y , 27th January 1832.

] . W it h reference to a leading object of the Institution, a Medal, or some other Honorary Prize, shall, in each district, be given to the Highlander who shall habitually have worn for the longest period the Highland Dress of Home-made Tartan. .This Prize to be determined at the time o f distributing the other Prizes, after mentioned.

2. The School Examinations at the Competitions for the Society’s Prizes shall embrace all the branches of Education taught at the Schools assembled for Competition, particularly the proficiency of the Scholars in Gaelic and English Reading, Writing and Arithmetic.

8. The Prizes shall be distributed by the Clergyman of the Parish, assisted by such of the Resident Members of the So­ciety, and other Gentlemen of the district, as may attend the Examination, in the manner they shall judge best,—it being understood, that where there are two Competitors for the Prize in any particular branch of Education, whose proficiency in that branch is considered equal, the Prize shall be awarded to the youth who shall exhibit the most accurate knowledge of the Gaelic Language.

4. The Society expect that the successful Candidates for their Prizes shall, in furtherance of a leading object of the So­ciety, assume the ancient garb as their ordinary wear.

5. The Society rely on the zeal of the Clergy for transmit­ting to the Secretary, as soon as possible after each Examina­tion, and not later than the first day of May in each year, a Report of the Examination, specifying the number of Schools met for Competition, with the Teachers’ names, the number of Scholars examined, the names and designations of the success­ful Candidates for the Society’s Prizes in each separate branch; and if there be any thing peculiarly deserving of commenda­tion in the method of Teaching, or other circumstances, dis­tinguishing individual Teachers in the district, above their brethren, that such circumstances be particularly noticed in the Report.

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SELECTIONS FROM REPORTS

OF

SCHOOL EXAMINATIONS.

I.— 1823-1824.

O ban , A r g y l e s h ir e .

LOCAL COMMITTEE FOR OBAN.

J o h n M ‘D o u g a l l , Esq. Younger of Macdougall, Convener.Archibald Campbell, Esq. of Melfort.Coll M‘Dougall, Esq. of Ardincaple.Colin M Dougall, Esq. of Lunga.Donald Campbell, Esq. Younger of Dunstaffnage.Allan M ‘Dougall, Esq. Writer to the Signet.

Mr. Beath, Minister o f Oban.George Riddoch, Teacher.

Addressed to the Secretary 1of the Celtic Society. J Oban, October 1823.

S ir , — I beg leave to inform you, according to the regula­tions of the Celtic Society, that at the Examination of the can- didates for the Celtic Prizes on the 28th August, the number of Scholars attending my School was ninety, of whom six ap­peared for the Latin Prize, ten for the Arithmetic, and sixteen for the English. After a protracted Examination, the Prizes were awarded as follows : —~ The Latin Prize to Donald M‘Ki- clian, son of Donald M‘K.ichan, merchant-tailor, Oban, re­siding bn the property of Charles Campbell, Esq. of Combie the Arithmetic Prize to Allan Munro, sori of Dugald Munro, labourer, residing at Arioagari, on the property of Major M‘Dou- gall of Soroba; —-the English Prize to John M‘Kichan, son to Donald M‘Kichan, merchant-tailor, Oban, residing on the pro­perty of Charles Campbell, Esq. of Combie. — I am, Sir, your most obedient servant,

(Signed) G eo . R iddoch , Teacher.J. M ‘D o u g a l l , Convener.

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D u r in ish , Sk y e , I n v e r n e ss -s h ir e .

J. N. M‘Leod, Esq. of Macleod, Convener.Lachlan M‘Kinnou, Esq. of Corrychattachan.Colonel M*Donald of Lyndale.Donald M'Donald Esq. of Lochinver.Matthew Norman M'Donald, Esq, W. S.Alex. M'Kinnon, Esq. of Corrychattachan.

Rev. James Suter, Minister«-K Alexander Allan, Teacher.

Addressed to the Secretary 1of the Celtic Society. j Dunvegan, May 1, 1824.My D ea r S ir , — On the 9th of March I held an Examina­

tion of the Parish School here, for the purpose of awarding the Prizes given by the Celtic Society. As there were no Members of the Society except myself nearer than fifty miles, I was obliged to content myself with the assistance of the Parish Minister and some of my Tacksmen. The number of Scholars learning Latin was too few to admit of any Compe- tion, and we determined upon assigning the Prizes to the best readers, writers, and arithmeticians ; and as several girls in the School were perfectly able to vie with the boys, we agreed that we should permit them to take their chance, and 1 trust the Society will not be so ungallant as to censure our determina­tion. We did not venture to insist upon the ladies appearing in future in kilts, but they willingly promised to do their best to obtain dresses of tartan.- The medal and first Prize was gained by a boy called Do­

nald Cameron, son of John Cameron, a tenant of mine, who was the best reader and writer; the second was awarded to Marion M‘Cuish, a daughter of another tenant, who was se­cond best; and the third to Alexander M‘Leod, son of another tenant, the best arithmetician ; — the whole number of Com-

?etitors was forty-two, and the Master’s name Alexander Allan, congratulate the Society on the success of the experiment;

indeed I anticipate the most beneficial results from it The money was delivered to the parents of the successful candi­dates, under the express condition of its being applied to pur-* chase Highland dresses for their children, which they will comply with,' with pride and satisfaction. I trust the Pre­miums shall be continued next year. — I am, my dear Sir, very truly yours,

(Signed) J. N, M acleod , Convetier.c

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18

^ CÀ^PBE^TONvÀllGyLESltlElEr^

Addressed to the Secretary \ f ' " ~of the Celtic Society* ■ : y ^ * ‘ « j i ^

«’ * Campbelton, July ‘26,1824.This being the day fixed upon by the Convener of the Bocal

Committee of the Celtic Society, and by the Minister of Camp­belton, for Examining the Grammar School of this place taught by Mr. Richard Mark, and for awarding the Prizes granted by the Society;—there appeared here* Dr. M‘Donald of Balli- share, Member of the Local Committee; Duncan Stewart, Esq. of Grlenbupkie, Provost of CampbeltonHugh Stevenso^ Esqvv and Andrew Ralston, Esq. Bailies; the Rev. Messrs. Norman MfLeod, Allan M Nanghton, Daniel "Kelly, and .William Màc- dougal, Ministers; Dugald Campbell, Esq. of Kildallajg, Cap* tain John Fleming of Muiredale,'David S. Galbraith, Esq. <>f Drumore; and several other Gentlemen connected with the. place; — besides a considerable number of Ladies, and many of the friends and parents o f the scholars, r- «1 ’ h *'1

Dr. M*Donald, the only Member of the Local Committee present, stated the object of the day’s. Examination. r lie ob­served that it was the anxious wish of the Celtic Society* and > indeed one of the principal ends of its association, to promote the interests of education in the several districts of the High­lands, by awarding Premiums to the most distinguished Scholars in the different Schools; thus bringing into notice young men of talent and promise* and creating that praiseworthy emula­tion among Teachers and Scholars from which the happiest ; results might be expected to arise : That the Society had trans­mitted their silver medal and three guineas to be given this day as Premiums to the most distinguished Scholars in the School, in terms of the Regulations of the Sociaty, which he ilow read. ‘ .* Before proceeding to the examination, the Provost of Camp*

belton expressed, in his own name, and in the name of his. colleagues in the magistracy, the satisfaction with which he heard the statement now made by Dr. Macdonald, of the in­tentions of the Celtic S o c i e t y t h a t he, felt convinced the most beneficial results might be expected to the country at large from a system so admirably calculated to excite an hok; nourable desire of approbation in the min ls o f - .th0>yoang';!** • that the Magistrates of Oaaapbelton/: most heartily coi>curring in the views of the Celtic Society, and anxious to manifest

w

$heh* desire of cè*operatingwith them in this district, had ©rdered a few paaHfds to be iaidontinthe purchase of books to be awarded at this day’s examination as prizes, in addition to izhai granted by the Society. 4 ■ ■ ii.- h . . . -^ l

Thereafter the Examination was proceeded in, which was ^rinoipiatly direcled i to the Latin, Greek, and French lan­guages; and v t o the whole of it, the different Glares gaye proofs of the highest proficiency on the part of the Pupils, and of isteady «eal and well-directed talent on the pai*t of the ;Tffaeh«us. v The boys in the more advanced Glasses translated #ith great ©legànòè, *nd displayed the most intimate acquainsf-

«»a»ce with the highest departments of learning and prosody ; Andthose in the lowest grfve most ready and distinct questions in syntax, mythology, and ancient geography, suggested to the Gentlemfeti present by the portion of the Classics translated. After à strict Examination, the Prices granted by the Celtic Society were adjudged as follows, and presented by Dr. M*DO' nald r"'i ' ... »■*■-

- lw The silver medal to Alexander Anderson, son to Mr. Allan Anderson, inerchant in Campbelton. , ^

2. To John Cameron, a poor friendless orphàn, supported l>y àn*>ld infirm grandfather, eighty years of age. v ;

3. To James Watson, son of Mr. William Watson, Camp- beltdn. ■ /

u r 4* iTo George Young, son of Mr. Young, mate of thte Wd* litigton revenue cruise!1. 4 5 The first four prizes awarded by the Magistrates were pre­

sented by the Provost of Campbelton to Duncàti Campbell, Norman M‘Leod, Pete Cainpbell, and George Beatson. rJ* -

'•H After the Examination was còncluded, the Scholars were «dàfes6èd by sonaeof the'Clergymen present. The successful

* Candidates were urged to persevere in that cònrse of diligence and application which had this day secured to them so distin­guished a mark of public approbation; and while they were stimulated to progressive improvement and unwearied applica­tion, by the prospect of gaining, at some future period, higher countenance from some of the Members of that Patriotic So­ciety, who addressed them in the animating words of their motto, Cha treig mi thu (I shall not desert you), their compa­nions were encouraged to aspire after the same distinction, and strain every nerve to phtain, at the next Annual Examination, similar tokens o f public distinction.

The Reporters cannot conclude without expressing the high satisfaction which the day’s proceedings seemed to.have afforded

J, to all present. They cannot but, view such Public Bxainina-

tions as possessing a direct and powerful influence of the most happy tendency — being admirably calculated to promote the best interests of the Country, by improving the situation of its loyal and enterprising inhabitants, and thus increasing its best resources.

The Reporters consider, that Public Examinations thus con­ducted, under the patronage of so powerful and patriotic an association as the Celtic Society, and attended by the Magis­tracy, the Clergy, and the Landed Interest of the District, must be peculiarly well adapted to cheer and stimulate the Teacher — to prevent the spring of his activity from unbènd- ing, and himself from sinking into that lassitude and imbeci­lity which is but too often the effect of unknown, overlooked, and unrequited exertion.

The effects of such Examinations in stimulating the youth are too obvious to require notice. The ambition of attracting at these Annual Examinations the notice of all the talent, and worth, and influence in a District — the hope of meeting the approbation, or securing the countenance of a generous supe­rior, to whom some of the boys have been taught to look for patronage in after life, cannot fail of kindling the most ardent desire of excelling;—while it is not possible for the spectators to witness the interesting appearances made by some unbe­friended boy (a fatherless and brotherless orphan, lika him who this day obtained the second of the Society’s Prizes), without feeling more than a kindly interest in his success — without cheering his aspiring hopes with a word of encourage­ment— without animating him in his honourable struggle, with a friendly promise of “ Cha treig mi thu,. These being the sentiments of the Reporters, it is impossible for them not to regard the distribution of Prizes in Highland Schools, by the Celtic Society, as a measure which is peculiarly well suited to promote the best interests of the rising genera­tion. (Signed) W il l ia m M ‘D onald, Convener.

N or. M ‘Leod, Minister.

II. — 1825-6-7.F o k t i n g a l , P e e t h s h i b e .

JFortingal, January 23, 1826,S ir,— I have the honour of acknowledging receipt of your

letter o f the 2?-t'h August last, with a statement explanatory of

21

the Celtic Society’s objects and measures ; and immediately on General Stewart’s arrival in the country, steps were taken in furtherance of the Society’s views in awarding Prizes; and I have pleasure in stating, that the liberality of the Society pro* duced a truly gratifying and interesting sight in this extensive parish, on Friday the 20th instant, being the day fixed on for the examination. It being a new thing altogether in this Dis­trict, it was hailed with deep interest by all ranks, both gentle and simple, teachers and scholars, clergy and laity.

Of the Local Committee of the Celtic Society, there met here,—

General S t e w a r t of Garth, Convener 4 John Menzies, Esq. of Chesthill, V Members of the Societ Captain Stewart 01 Crossmount, ) J

As also,Coll Macdonald of Dalchorne, 91 st Regiment;Donald Stewart, Esq. of Glenlyon House ; ;

Besides many other gentlemen connected with the parish and neighbourhood, and some strangers ; — Also —

t Members o f the Presbytery o f Dtmkeld,Rev. Mr. Menzies, Minister of Dull;■ . ■ ■■ Mr. Macbean, Minister of Kenmore ; ,------.'Mr. Macdonald, Minister of Fortingal;

Teachers o f Schools within the Parish,Mr. Butter, Parish Schoolmaster;Mr. Duncan Campbell, Teacher, Kinloch Rannoch;Mr. John Macdonald, Teacher at Innervar, Glenlyon;Mr. Donald Stewart, Burn of Kiltney ;

And other Teachers of the Parish, of whom Mr. Peter Mac­Intyre, Student of Divinity, teaches the Latin Seminary.

The Meeting being constituted by prayer, by the Rev. Mr. Macdonald, Minister of the Parish, proceeded to the Examina­tion ; and after commencing and going on for some time in the Parish School-house, which is pretty large, and well accommo­dated with seats, it was found necessary to adjourn to the Church, as the School-house, the place appointed for the Meet­ing, would not contain the half of the people and scholars con­vened. So great was the interest excited, and the sight so novel in this quarter, that the happy effects resulting from it, and the impressions made, are riot easily to be effaced from the minds,of all present. v "V -:\ ■ ...

This Parish extends from thirty-five to forty miles in length,

«8d.%lnft fcwenty*o, twei*ty*two in breadth, divufèd injfeut ©istròòts, •: t«2. Raimoeh, Gleniyon, Eortisngal,;and Bdtfeaditf intieisectM by high mountains aiid rivers; and. it was xtoeiadèl uhttt the aesduraenee of a storm ©t1 a bad day Would be unfavoun- la’bW tò -thè Me e t i t ì gbut we were MessecTwith a good day,, às if-a benign PtòrvÌQèntse wiere ssarfciling òn ithè object the Society^aid in vièW. s iV. , j ... . . L/r; :*■/«■? -su•! '■'■Thiei’è are eleven- Schools in ithe Parish, and a po^hatidndf from three to fbur thou and in which 838 scholars wère taught Itì th lak anuffiaeration : o f these-Schools, ^ight are supported by the voluntary contributions of the landlords and tenants, without any pubKc fcsisistattce whatever. A deputation from the different .Schools came forward from the different glens, with their Teachers at their head—a truly interesting sight in this District, and in miniature might be compared to the gather­ing of the Clans in Edinburgh upon the King’s visit to Scotland. They had no music to be sure, but they seemed proud that

1 deemed Society’s

Prizes. ì r ^1 ,v , .. . . . ,v

After a patient, and as minute and protracted an Examina­tion as the light of day would permit, the Prices were awarded as follows:— *" -«• i i :n*

'■■a I. Latin,1st Prize, being the Society’s Silver Medal, to William Irvine,

as the best Latin Scholar. , , - it-'2d Do.-^Miss Nancy Stewart, drlenlyon House, a Silver Me-

£:. dal, given by General Stewart.II. A r it h m e t ic and W r it in g .

1st Prize—John Macdonald, Lassiiitullieh, Ràtìtwdb,' a Silver ^Medal.

2d Do. — Robert Macdonald, do,, Medal, also by General SteWàlrfc !r

H Ì . W r it in g on;ly , iWtPrize—John Anderson, Inchgàirtfe* Burn of Kiktìèy School.

■ -iii iii -M - 5 v ‘ ' ' ‘ V " . *.• ' >. . i ! . . „■

iV, IV,. E nglish R e a d in g . : j*;•1st Prize-^Miss Mary Macdonald, Jtottingal Manse.Extra Prizes were also awarded to tfye best Readers of Gaelic,

and the Second Class of English Readers, ?. i%■ ; ' r ,vù * y : V . G a e l i c . J 4” * ; *‘4* ^1st Prize—John M<Callum, Innervar School, a Gaelic Bible.2d Do.— Miss Mary M ‘Gregor, a Me<3al. ■ V

32

they were selected from among their companions, am Jwortfiy by their Teachers to compete for the Celtic

3d Prize—John Duff, Tempar, Rannoch School, a Gaelic Tes­tament. __ . _ . . .... , ,/x . ... T *

4th Do.— CatH®. Mel5òriàtd, Kiriloch Ràrinoch', Òssian’s Poems. 5th Do,— Margaret M ‘Donald, Innervar, Glenlyon, a Gaelic

BibleVI. ''SECONto ;.0tiAS| of E&GLifsH REABEftS. „ .

1st Frize—‘William Reid, Burn of Klltney School, an English;? Testament. . .Ì » " . • . . . <

2d. Do.—-Grace Buchanan, Kirktown Parish School, a Bible. <. 0d Jessy Robertson, Tomnacroich Parish School, a Tes-

' tament.< It was pleasant to observe the extreme anxiety which the

dilferent . Teaehers evinced in bringing: their Scholars undei* the notice of the Gentlemen present, particularly of General Stewart,, who, in his turn, took notice o f the most meritorious,: and distributed a number of Bibles and Testaments, and copies of Ossiau’s Poems, amongst them, with a liberal hand, arid with suitable addresses: to each of the successful Candidates, which had the happiest effect of raising a spirit of honourable emulation and desire to excel, not only among the Scholars, hut also among the Teachers,, whose character and success as Teachers must rise or sink according to the proficiency of their pupils. / This was fully exemplified on this occasion, and af­forded a gratifying confirmation of the truly patriotic vie# taken:of .the subject by the Celtic Society. *•••; EtJg but doing justice to the Teachers tip mention, that the

appearance by their Scholars at the Examination was highly" gratifying. The specimens produced afforded ample’ proofs of their attention to the literary interests of their Schools, in the different branches taught by them,, which made an impression on, all present highly favourable to them* ' m b ''' on

All which, by order of General Stewart, Convener, in name and behalf of the Committee, is respectfully reported and at­tested by, Sir, your obedient humble servant, i 3-Wtit

J ; 77 ^ ‘ (Signed)/^ RòSERT MÀCDONÀtD,' . , . ; , \ Minister o f Fòfiingal.

i ® S.‘- - I n ^ e :cour8p of the whole Examination, and in the concluding* addresses,* regard was had to the origmai object of the-Cèltic Sòei&y the wearing of the Highland dreSs, and the^Stlidy of the GaeUc languager and, in Ctìm llnietitf to the

à:grèat many^appeared* in nèw dfèsses of'tàytian. In the evtjnÌBgr thè' wholèror consisting ofa%òV£ twènty, dinèd witW Gerjèì’al Stewàfjt; " ;w “ It; ,M*D.

24

A r d c h a t t a n , A r g y l e s h ir e ,

Ledaig School-house, Nov. 23d, 1825.T his being the day appointed by the Local Committee for

examining the Schools and distributing the Prizes given by the * Society for this district, — there assembled here, at the hour of 12 o’clock noon, General Campbell of Lochnell,' and John Stewart* Esquire, of Fasnacloich,'1 Members of the Society ;Mrs. Campbell of Lochnell, Miss Hope, Rev, H. Fraser, Minister of Ardchattan, &c. &c.

From a desire that the views of the Society in appropriating a part of their Funds as Prizes should be promoted through­out the district as extensively as possible, intimation was pre­viously given by the Convener that the Prizes to be awarded on this occasion should not, as last year, be confined to the leading Scholars at the Ardchattan School, but that Candi­dates from the other Schools within the united parishes of Ard­chattan and Muckairn should also have it in their power to come forward. In consequence, the Competitors from the Schools of A e d c h a t t a n , E aste rn and W este rn Muck- a ie n , B a e ca ld in e , and L e d a ig , amounting in number to 107 fine boys and girls, were met together, at the appointed hour, with their respective Teachers, in this place, as being at once the largest School-house and the most central in the district.« A very interesting examination then took place, after which the Society’s Prizes were determined as follows: — /-f 1. To Archibald Fletcher, son to Donald Fletcher, residing on the Estate of Mr. Campbell of Barcaldine, and attending the. School of Ardchattan, of which Mr. Archibald M ‘Callum is teacher, the Society’s Silver Medal for proficiency in Latin.

The Committee have to observe here, that among the „ Latin Scholars this day examined, and who acquitted

themselves well, were two boys, the sons of Duncan Clark, farmer at Dunlaunachan, the property of General Campbell of Lochnell. As their place of residence is a remote district of the parish of Muckairn, these boys had never an opportunity of attending any School. Un­der these circumstances, the Father himself undertook > the charge of educating his own children; and the suc­cess with which his unaided exertions have been crowned,

,,, . may be estimated from the fact, [that his sons, who ap- \0 . .-beared here to-day have read through a great part of.

Y i ^g ii, and Livy, and will soon be fit for entering the;. University. But as the Society’s Prizes are intended

25

for youth attending Schools, neither of these promising boys could, in the opinion of the Committee, be deemed qualified to obtain one; though, had this disqualification not existed, the elder of these boys would be found the successful candidate for the Medal. Exclusive of them, there were four candidates for the Latin Prize, all at­tending the Ardchattan School.*

2. The prize of One Guinea for Arithmetic .was adjudged to Donald M‘Donald, son to widow. M ‘Donald at Ackinreir, the property of Mr. Campbell of Barcaldine. : There were about twelve candidates for this Prize, the greater number of whom shewed commendable dexterity in cyphering. The me­rits of the successful candidate and of Robert Maclaren, re­siding at Ardchattan Miln, appeared, after a keen contest, to be so equally balanced, that the Committee would have felt hesitation as to which of them should be preferred, had not one of the Regulations of the Society aided them in coming to a decision. Donald M ‘Donald shewed a superior knowledge o f the Gaelic language, and this knowledge gained him the Prize. Donald M ‘Donald, within the last few days, entered the Barcaldine School, taught by Mr. Malcome Blair. It may, however, be right to state, that he had, during the summer season, been attending Mr. Archibald M‘Callum’s School at Ardchattan.

3. Margaret Munro, from Lorn Furnace, the property of General Campbell of Lochnell, was entitled to the Prize of One Guinea as the best at Writing.

There were about ten Competitors for this Prize, and not a few of the specimens produced were, all things con­sidered, creditable to the Scholars and to the Teachers. Margaret Munro attends the School of Eastern Muck- airn, which is taught by Mr. Dugald M ‘Ilriach.

4. The Candidates for the Prize given for Reading were comparatively very numerous, and from among them likewise it became a matter of difficulty to, make the selection, the me­rits of many appearing to be so nearly equal. On the whole, however, the Committee were led to award this Prize to Ca­tharine M ‘Gregor, residing at Ardchattan, and attending the school there.

The brother of this young woman distinguished himself at the last year’s examination by the Committee. He then

* The Committee of Management, while they approved of the Sub-Committee’s interpretation: o f the Society’s Rules, authorised General Campbell to eònfer one of the Society’* Medal* on the elder of these young men.

d

obtained the Society’s Silver Medal and One Guinea as the best Latin and Greek scholar at the School of Ard­chattan. Having afterwards got a bursary from the Clan Gregor Society, this young man last year was en­abled to enter the University of Glasgow ; and is this winter, also under the auspices of the same Society, at­tending the senior Greek and Logic classes in that Uni­versity. The Committee, in reporting Catharine Mac­Gregor, the sister, as a successful candidate this year, deem it not too trivial a matter to bring these facts under the notice of the Society.

Such has been the distribution which, on mature deliberation, your Committee have this day made of the Prizes given by the Celtic Society for this District of the Highlands* On delivering the different Prizes to the successful Competitors, not only they, but all the other Candidates, were condescendingly addressed by the Convener, in a manner as to which it is only allowable here to say, that it is hoped and believed the counsels given will not soon be forgotten by the eager juvenile listeners.

Besides the different Schools from which Candidates appeared here this day, there are other Schools in Glenitive, a part of the parish of Ardchattan ; and intimation was given to the popula­tion there of the Prizes given by the Society, that Competitors from these Schools might, if they could accomplish this, come forward to the Examination. But the shortness of the day at this season of the year, and the great distance they should have to travel, rendered it impracticable for any to attend.

The following has been given to the Committee as the average number of Scholars which, during the winter and spring months,

.attend the several Schools respectively, from which Candidates appeared here this day : —

Ardchattan School, 48Eastern Muckairn, - - - - 9 5 Western ditto, 42Barcaldine, - - - _ - 6 5 Ledaig, 70

In all, - — — 320(Signed) D un. C a m p b e ll, Convener.

Htr. F r a s e r , Minister.

K i l l i n S c h o o l .

O n Tuesday the 3d of Jànuàfy, the school of Killin Was ex­amined in the presence of Lord Glenorchy, as Convener of the

27

Local Celtic Committee; — Mr. Hugh M‘Dougall, Minister of the parish ; — and Mr. John M‘DougaI'1, Missionary minister of Strathfillan. — Due intimation had been given to the other members of the Committee.

There were three Competitors for the first Latin Prize:— John M‘Dougall, Hugh Cameron, and Archibald M ‘Dougal1. It was adjudged to John M‘Dougall. The two other Compe­titors discovered considerable proficiency in the Latin lan­guage, For the second Prize, viz. for Arithmetic, there were also three Competitors — Malcolm M^Naughton, Killin, Wil-

' iiam Fraser, and John M ‘Lellan. After a hard struggle, in which these young persons exhibited very great facility in the higher rules of Arithmetic, the prize was awarded to Malcolm M ‘Naughton. The third Prize, for English Reading, was given to Margaret Campbell, who also gave a translation of one of Ossian’s Poems. The fourth Prize, for Writing, was awarded to William Fraser.

In distributing the Prizes, Lord Glenorchy intimated to the School the qualification exacted in future by the C.eltic Society, viz, that the Candidates for these Prizes should habitually wear the’ Highland dress.

It may be remarked, however, that this rule, rigorously acted up to, must materially diminish the beneficial results of the other parts of this excellent system.

The Highland dress, though peculiarly fitted for out-of- doors exercise, is but ill suited to the sedentary occupation of a School. It is also considered an expensive dress.

It is suggested to the Society, whether a rule, insisting only that the Candidates for the Prizes should appear in th€ High­land dress on the day of competition, would not completely attain the object, and be more applicable to the present circum­stances of Highland districts. (Signed) G le n o rc h y .

Achmore, January 10,1826.

III. — 1832-3-4.

A r d c h a t t a n .

Ardchattan Manse, 72th June 1832.S ir ,—-In the letter which I had the pleasure of addressing

to you about the middle of April last, I mentioned that the

r

valuable parcel of books, which the Celtic Society were pleased to forward from Edinburgh, as Prizes for the best Scholars in this part of the country, had unfortunately been long detained by the way; and that, in consequence of this, it was not pos­sible that a Report of the Examination of our Schools could be transmitted to you by the first day of May, as one of the Society’s regulations required.

The receipt of your obliging reply to my communication induced me, after having consulted with the different School­masters, to fix upon Thursday the 21st current as the day for competition; and a circular to that effect, accompanied with a request that the meeting might be favoured with their presence, was forwarded to the following Members of your Society, resi­dent in this neighbourhood :—

Sir Duncan Campbell of Barcaldine, Bart.General Campbell of Lochnell.Captain Macdougall of Macdougall, R. N.John Stewart, Esq. of Fasnacloich.Donald Campbell, Esq. of Dunstaffnage.

On the morning of Thursday last, accordingly, groups of neatly-dressed young persons of both sexes, belonging to the under-mentioned Schools, might be seen proceeding with juve­nile alacrity, together with their Teachers, to the Assembly’s School-house at Ledaig, near Lochnell-House, where the Exa­mination was appointed to be held, viz.

Ardchattan, - Parochial School..Muckairn, - - Parochial School.Barcaldine, - General Assembly’s School.Ledaig, - - - General Assembly’s School.Achleven, - - Society Propag8. Christian Knowledge.Lorn Furnace, - Private School.

Of the Gentlemen to whom circular letters were written, some happened not to be in the country; others o f . them also were necessarily prevented from attending; and by these means, I regret having to state, that no Member of your respectable body was present to witness an exhibition, than which few, I appre­hend, could be more gratifying to them.

The examination, however, was honoured by the attendance of Lady Campbell of Barcaldine, Miss Thomson, Miss J. Campbell, Alexander and James Campbells, Esqrs.; James Stewart, Esq. of Achnaba, and others; and at the hour ap­pointed, the Competitors for your Prizes were, through the assistance of the Teachers, arranged into the following Classes:

1. Latin and Greek; 2. Arithmetic, Book-keeping, and

28

Geometry; 3. Penmanship; and 4. Reading, including Gram­mar and Spelling.

For the first of these Classes, Six Candidates presented them­selves ; for the second, Sixteen Candidates; for the third, Fif­teen ; and for the fourth, Twenty-six. And after as minute and lengthened an Examination as circumstances would admit, and the results of which reflected much credit on the Teachers and on their Scholars, the following, after due deliberation, were announced as the successful Competitors, and in presence of the meeting, your Prizes were delivered to them respectively:—

X. L a t in an d G r e ek C lassics .Names. Teachers. Schools.

Alex. C. Fraser, 1st Prize,*%Archa. M ‘Callum^«Ardchattan. Donald Cowan, 2d do.-****** Do. ^ Do.

■ II. A r it h m e t ic an d B ookkeeping .William Wilson, 1st Prize,~*Dugald M ‘IIraich^,^Muckairn.Ja". Gibbie, 2d do. Colin Campbell «»M-~Ledaig.

III. P e n m a n sh ip .Archd. M‘Neill ~»,.~~~^~Archd. M ‘Callum^«.Ardchattan. Dugald M £Niven^*,^.w«^vDugald M^h-aich^JVluckairn.

IV. R e a d in g , &c.Ann M ‘Gregor ^^.^.^.^.^.^Archd. M ‘ Call Ardchattan.Wm. M‘Intyre John Munro___~~~vLorn Furnace.Duncan Connellw w ,~**%~M.Archd. M ‘Intyre^«Achleven.Mary Campbell ~~~~v,~~Colin Campbell«*»«.Ledaig.John M'Pherson M« w w «.Malcolm Blahv«~,,«Barcaldine. John P. Fram^,~~,~~,~.~~Archd. M ‘Callum««.Ardchattan. Margaret John Munro Lorn Furnace.Alex. Whyte ^^.^^^.^^^Arch4. M‘Callum~~Ardchattan.

Robertson’s Works, in one volume, were given as the First Prize for Latin and Greek ; and Johnson’s Works, in two vo­lumes, as the First Prize for Arithmetic, &c.

The Lives of Eminent Voyagers formed the First Prizè for Penmanship; and Wood’s Sacred History for Reading and good conduct.

The remaining books sent by the Society were adjudged to the other young persons mentioned in the preceding list ; and there is no doubt that they will long continue to be much valued by their happy possessors. .

In reference to!the Teachers, all of them, as has already been, hinted, are respectable ; and, where this is the case, it may seem unnecessary to particularize anyt But there is one who has so

long, and so faithfully, been engaged in serving his generation as an instructor of youth, that it would be improper to omit this opportunity of noticing his merits. The person now alluded to is Mr. Archibald M*Callum, who, after having been for some years previously employed in teaching, has for upwards of a quarter of a century discharged the duties of Parochial School­master of Ardchattan. Under many disadvantages, Mr. M ‘Cal- lum has persevered, unostentatiously communicating to the youth entrusted to his care, the usual branches of education, with assi­duity and suceess, and imparting to them also that knowledge which “ maketh wise unto salvation.” It is not easy duly to esti­mate the value to society of such characters as this; nor is it in the present world that the full amount of their services can be known.

Let me now conclude this somewhat lengthened communica­tion by mentioning a fact, which may he regarded as a pleasing proof—I am persuaded among many others—of the good which the Celtic Society is imparting to the Highlands.

The Medal given by the Society, in 1824, to the best scholar in this district, was awarded to Robert M 4Gregor, a young man then attending the Ardchattan Parochial School, and son to the ploughman at Ardchattan. The circumstance of this young man’s having obtained your Medal led to his being noticed, soon after, by the Clan-Gregor Society. By that respectable Society he was called to Edinburgh; and, after having undergone an examination there, he was allowed by them Ten Pounds per annum, for some years, to aid him in the prosecution of his studies at a University. He accordingly attended the Classes in Glasgow for four sessions, applying himself, at the same time, to the study of medicine. He has since passed his examinations as à Surgeon—obtained his diploma, arid now holds, with credit to himself, and benefit to the Institution, a responsible situation in the Royal Infirmary at Glasgow. Now, were it not for your Society, it is not too much to say, that this young man, humanly speaking, would not have ever risen beyond that sphere in which his father moves. This is one .evidence of the direct benefits conferred on the Highlands by your Society ; and my own ex­perience, in common with that o f many others, enables me to bear ample testimony to the valuable indirect benefits which you are the means of conferring, through the impulse given by your Prizes, not merely to our youth, but also to their Teachers. Let your Society, therefore, go on in that patriotic course which they have marked out for themselves; and may their efforts be accompanied with still more abundant success!

Believe me to remain, with best thanks for your kindness to us, Sir, &c. Hu. F&asee.

To George Farqukarson, Esq. W. S.. 85c. fyc.

31

Extract from Minute o f General Meeting 26th January 1833.“ IV. That, from the high terms in which Mr M eCallum,

“ Parochial Schoolmaster of Ardchattan for twenty-five years, “ is recommended to the Society, and from the number of lead- “ ing Prizes carried off by his Scholars at this and former Exa- “ minations, the Society vote to him a copy of the Gaelic Dic- 41 tionary, as an Honorary Prize.1’

K in g u s s ie .16th April 1832.

T he Competition for Prizes given by the Celtic Society, for promoting the interest of Education in the District of Bade- noch, was held at Kingussie on Friday the 6th April current. From the several Schools in the parishes of Kingussie, Alvie, and Insh, 72 Scholars were selected by the respective Teachers of these Schools, and entered on the list of Candidates to compete for Prizes. From the Parish of Laggan no Competitors ap­peared. The Schoolmasters of Kingussie and Insh, each at the head of his selected Scholars, with a Bagpiper playing before him, met the two Schoolmasters of the Parish of Alvie, who also had a Bagpiper, within a mile of the village of Kingussie. Here they were all formed into one party, entered the village with three Pipers playing in front, and marched through the village to the School-house of Kingussie. Of the interest ex­cited by this novel procession among all the spectators, both young and old, and the enthusiasm created among the Teachers and Scholars themselves, an adequate conception can be formed only by those who were eye-witnesses of that interesting scene. Two of the Schoolmasters, and a considerable number of the Competitors, appeared in the Highland Dress. It was at first proposed to hold the Competition in the School-house of Kin­gussie, which is large and commodious; but the concourse of people that assembled to witness the Competition was so great, that it became indispensably necessary to repair to the Church, where a great number of Ladies and Gentlemen were present. After prayer, Mr. Macpherson of Belleville was called to the Chair ; and the Regulations regarding the Prizes given by the Celtic Society being read, Mr. Shepherd, Minister of Kingussie, proposed that all the Gentlemen present should sit and vote at the distribution of the Prizes, which-proposal was agreed to, and the Gentlemen took their seats accordingly. The Exami­nation was of course conducted by the Clergymen of the three

32different Parishes,, but the Prizes were awarded by the majority of votes.

Previous to the Examination of the Scholars, the Meeting proceeded to determine the Honorary Prize, proposed to be given to the Highlander who has been in the habit most con­stantly of wearing the Highland Dress of Home-made Tartan. Compeared as Candidates — Robert Shaw, in the Parish of Insh, aged 87 years; Malcolm M ‘Intyre, in the Parish of Laggan, aged 75 years; and James M‘Edward, in the Parish of Alvie, aged 70 years. After a minute investigation of the claims preferred by the said Candidates, it was determined that the above named Robert Shaw is entitled to the Prize.

The Competitors for Prizes from the different Schools were then called in, and, after an Examination which occupied nine hours, the Prizes were awarded as follows, viz. —

I . P a r o c h ial School o f K ingussie ,

Taught by Mr. Andrew Rutherford, Parochial Schoolmaster.1. Andrew Macpherson, Knappach,-------1st Prize for English Grammar.2. Daniel M ‘Culloch, Kingussie,~~~~— ~2d Prize for Do.3. John King. Kingussie, ~~~--------------- 1st Prize for Writing.4. Catherine McGregor, B alchroan,-----2d Prize 1st Class, English Reading:.5. Euphemia M ‘Gregor, do. Prize 2d Class Do.

■ 6. Jane Macpherson, Kingussie,-----~~„~2d Prize 2d Class Do,7. Patrick M‘Gregor, Balchroan, Prize for Arithmetic.8. Thomas Macpherson, Kingussie,„~~™4th Prize for Do.9. Patrick M‘ Gregor, Balchroan,__.____1st Prize for Geography.

10. Do. do. do. ___ ___1st Prize for Gaelic.11. George Murray, Kingussie,—---------,~.2d Prize for Latin.

22 Competitors~~~ll Prizes.

II. So cie ty School, P a r is h o f K ingussie ,(The Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge),

Taught by Mr. John M‘Master.1. Catharine M‘Master, N e w t o n , — 2d Prize for Arithmetic.2. Do. do. do. ___ 1st Prize for Religious Knowledge.3. Charles Urquhart, do, — ~~~4th Prize for Arithmetic.4. Margaret Cattanach, d o . ------------ 2d Prize for Religious Knowledge.5. John M ‘Master, d o . --------- ~~3d Prize for Reading Gaelic.6. Ewen Cattanach d o . ------------ 4th Prize for do.

12 Competitors~~~6 Prizes.

I I I . I n f a n t School, K in g u ssie ,Taught by Mrs. Robertson.

1. John Macpherson,„ ------ ---------„~4th Prize, 3d English Clast.6 Competitors^,! Prize.. ■

IV . G e n e r a l A ssem bly ’ s S chool, I nveru g las , P arish of I nsh,

Taught by Mr. Peter Grant.1. James Kennedy, Inveruglas, ____ 3d Prize for Arithmetic.2. Do. do. do. _^~7th Prize for Reading Gaelic.3. George Gordon, Coul,_______!_____ 4th Prize for Writing.4. Christian Davidson, Dell,--------------- 1st Prize for English Reading, 8d Glass.

10 Competitors,___4 Prizes.

V. P ar o c h ial School o f A l v ie ,. Taught by Mr. Henry Mitchell.

* 1. George Macdonald, A lva,----- ------- 1 st Prize for English Reading, 1st Glass.2. Do. do. d o .___ st Prize for Proficiency in Latin.3. Do. do. d o .-------------2d Prize for Writing.4. John Macdonald, Alvie,—-----------~~3d Prize for Writing.5. James Mitchell* Baldow, boarder 1 t> • „

with Mr. Mitchell, Schoolmaster. } 2d Pnze EnSllsh ReadinS-14 Competitors .—5 Prizes.

VI. G e n e r a l A ssem bly ’ s S chool a t L a g g a n l ia , Taught by Mr. Kenneth Cameron.

1. Janet Macdonald, Lagganlia, the Teacher’s Niece, 2d Prize for Geography.2. Donald Macinnes, Kinrara,______ ~___ ___2d Prize for Gaelic.3. Alexander Campbell, Blackmill, 2d Class~3d Prize for English Reading.4. Do. do. do. _____ „„„5th Prize for Gaelic Reading.5. Alexander Macintyre, Ballanrich,„_____ J5th Prize for do.

8 Competitors.__ 5 Prizes.

The six Schools from which the above Competitors were brought forward, were attended during the last Winter by up­wards of 450 Scholars ; in Summer, the number of coulrse must be mu ch less.

It is no more than justice to report, that the unsuccessful Competitors, with a very few exceptions acquitted themselves remarkably well in the branches of Education on which they were examined. It is even possible, nay, more than probable, that some individuals who were justly entitled to Prizes, may have been disappointed, owing to the manner in which the Prizes were awarded, but we are sure that no injustice has been done to merit intentionally, or through design.

It may be also reported, that the appearance made by all the Competitors, successful and unsuccessful, is highly creditable to the several Teachers by whom they were selected and brought forward. It was delightful to see the anxiety and concern that were visibly painted on the countenance of every individual Teacher, when any of his Scholars was brought forward to be examined, for fear he might fall short of making that appear* ance on which he previously caculated. In short, the Compe­tition afforded a satisfactory evidence to all who witnessed it, that Badenoch is, at the present moment, provided with

e

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Teachers, sound in their religious principles, correct in their moral conduct, diligent, faithful, and conscientious in dischar­ging the duties of the important situations in which they are respectively placed.

In concluding this Report, the Clergy and Gentlemen of Badenoch most cordially unite in tendering their best thanks to the Celtic Society for the recent instance of their friendly re­gard, and beg to assure the benevolent Members of that highly respectable body, that their Prizes have given a stimulus to the exertions of both Teachers and Scholars, that will produce con­sequences which cannot fail to prove highly beneficial to the interest of education in this district. Signed, in the name of the Meeting, by J am es M acpherson .

J . M ac d o n a ld , Minister o f Alvie.J ohn R. G lass , Minister o f Insh.

Additional Report by the Minister o f Kingussie.I concur in the preceding Report, drawn up by Mr Mac­

donald, of the Competition which was held here on the 6th inst. The people in this District, though in general poor, have long manifested much anxiety, and made great exertions to give to their children the advantage of a good education. Many of the heads of families have been in the habit for years of attend­ing the Examination of the Schools; but I have never seen such a strong interest excited, as appeared universally to pre­vail at the late Competition — nor did I ever witness, at pre­vious Examinations, such a numerous attendance of all classes amongst us. I have much pleasure in stating, and feel myself bound to report, the very efficient co-operation received from the ministers of Alvie and Insh, who most readily entered into the measure when first proposed to them, and exerted them­selves with great success in the promotion of the commendable object which your Society have in view. I have also to speak in terms of high commendation of the valuable assistance given by the resident Gentlemen in Alvie and Kingussie, who took the liveliest interest in the whole proceedings, bestowed much pains, and shewed the strictest impartiality in awarding the Prizes. Mr. Macpherson of Belleville, the liberal Patron of our Teachers and Schools, and of every thing that tends to the im­provement of our youth and good of the country, kindly agreed to become Chairman, and took a most active part in the inte­resting duties of the day. There was sometimes such an equa­lity of excellence in the Competitors, that the Judges had great difficulty in fixing on the Candidate to be preferred; they par­

ticularly excelled in Gaelic, English, and English Grammar. I most heartily concur in the expression of thanks to your So­ciety for this substantial proof of their attention to the best interests of our'youth, for I am convinced that nothing ever happened in this country, which has tended so much to call forth the energies of the youthful mind in the acquisition of useful knowledge.

G eo . Sh eph e rd , Minister o f Kingussie.Kingussie, 16 th April 1832.

9 “St o r n o w a y .

At Stornaway, 24th April 1833,D e a r Sir,— I received your note, and the parcel of books

which was intended as Prizes from the Celtic Society to the district of Stornoway, by the Highland Chieftain steam-boat, for which receive my best thanks. The nineteen volumes sent came to hand undamaged by the conveyance. It would be a pity should they be spoiled, for they were elegantly bound, and the selection gave very great satisfaction. Wednesday the 17th April was the day fixed by the Presbytery of Lewis for exa­mining the Schools in the town of Stornoway, for the purpose of making up their Annual Report to the General Assembly; and I felt happy that the parcel of books from your Society came so opportunely.

Agreeably to the intimation given, on Thursday 18tb the Teachers and Scholars from six different Schools assembled in the Church of Stornoway, at 10 o’clock. To co-operate with the Clergymen, viz. Rev. William Macrae, minister of Barvas ; Rev. Robert Finlayson, Lochs; Mr. M ‘Iver, elder; and self, a Committee was formed, consisting of the following gentlemen :—

Messrs. Alexander Stewart, Chamberlain of the Lewis;,, Alexander M ‘Iver, Donald Macauley, and Rode­

rick Miller, surgeons;„ John Macaulay, merchant;,, Roderick Morrison, banker.

The plan of the proceedings of the day was agreed upon so as to correspond with the rules of the Society as closely as pos­sible.

It was proposed, though contrary to general custom, to ex­clude the successful Candidate in one branch from competing in any other (at this time), that the Prizes might have a wider circulation, and that it might serve for a stimulus to those who

would in vain compete with the brighter geniuses in the higher classes, as these would invariably monopolize (though deserved­ly) the most, if not all of the Prizes.

I hope this deviation will not interfere with the design o f the Society. I acted thus solely on my own responsibility; but it gave finally general satisfaction.

All matters being arranged by the Committee, after prayer by the Rev Mr. Finlayson, Moderator, the Examination com­menced. The Candidates in every branch came forward as they chose from each School.

The body of the Church was occupied by the Scholars, the front-seats in the gallery were lined with ladies and gentlemen, who were attracted by the novelty of the scene, and felt in­terested in the manner their little ones would acquit themselves.

The Teachers were as follow : —- Teachers' Names. Schools. N o .

Rev. Allan Mackenzie,................................ Parochial,.................... .......................... 40Duncan McDonald, .................................... Society for Propagating Chr. Knowl.... 117Miss Ann Mackenzie, ................ (Female School—SupportedbyMrs. 1 3_

. ’ ........\ Stewart M ‘Kenzie ofSeaforth, J 'Miss M. Morison, assisted by her brother... Private,................................................... 35Roderick M‘ Donald,................................. . Ditto ............................... ................... 20Murdoch M ‘Intyre, .................................... Gress Family, ....................... ................. 7

As there were Nineteen Volumes, and each volume constituted a Prize, the arrangement was the following : —

The number of branches was eleven — 1. Greek ; 2. Latin ;3. French; 4. Geography : 5. English Grammar; 6. English Reading ; 7. Arithmetic ; 8. Penmanship ; 9. Gaelic ; 10. Re­citation ; 11. Catechism and Religious Knowledge.

These eleven Branches were subdivided into nineteen Classes, to correspond with the Prizes, viz.

S S S & B ra^kc. P H * B O * , “

Andrew M ‘Kenzie......Greek.................1...Polar Regions.............. Alex. McKenzie.John Fraser..................Latin ............... .1...Russell’s Egypt......... . Ditto.John M ‘ Iver, Gress.... Do..................... 2...African Traveller........Mr. Macintyre.Neil Morison............... French.................1...Pleiad.............. ;............A. M ‘Kenzie.George Johnson..........Eng. Gram........ 1...Polynesia...................... Do.Isabella M ‘ Iver..v..i;... Do. .......1...Mason’s Self Knowl.... Miss M. Morison.Alexander Leslie...,..'... Do. ...... 3...Tom Telescope............R. M'Donald.Matilda M ‘Iver.......... -Eng. Reading...!...Insect Architecture..... Miss M. Morison.Christian M ‘Gregor..... Do. ...2...Bible Stories................ Do.Mary Macaulay........... Do. ...3...Old Test. Biography... Do.Allan Morrison............ Arithmetic......... l...New Zealander............. R. McDonald.Ronald M ‘Kenzie........ Do............... 2...Loss of the Kent...........A. M ‘Kenzie.Ewen M‘ Lean..............Penmanship.......1...Lives of Youths............ Do.Lilly Ann M ‘Iver........ Do. ......2...M ‘ Intosh’s Gaelic Pr... Miss M. Morrison.Catharine Munro...... Gaelic Language..l,..Ossian’s Poems............A. McKenzie.Alexander Smith......... Do............... 2...Franklin’s Gaelic Pr...DuncanM‘Donald.Thomas Reid..............Recitation...........1...Instructive Extracts.....R. M ‘Donald.William Mathie...........Catechism, &c... 1...Simpson’s Scotland........Dn. McDonald.

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37

The Prize for Geography is not given away. The Committee did not think themselves warranted to dispose of it till they should hear from the Society, as there was only one Competitor, namely, a young boy, Lewis Maclvor, Gress, that came forward. His knowledge of Geography entitles him to the Prize, viz. Early English Navigators.

There were several young persons who would enter the lists with him, ‘but were precluded by the regulations adopted, viz. That the successful Candidate in any one branch should only compete once. Many boys and girls study Geography, but are not so far advanced as Lewis M'lver, — therefore they would not compete with him. The Committee would recommend two young Ladies for their knowledge of Arithmetic, that after another trial one of them should have the remaining Prize, pro­vided the Celtic Society do not see it proper to award it to the young Geographer.

As there were eleven Branches on which the different Candi­dates were to be examined, and these eleven Branches divided into nineteen Classes, you may judge what degree of patience was evinced, what justice done, and what interest was felt by the Committee of Examinators, when you are informed that the examination occupied the greater part of two days. On Thurs­day, it was past nine at night before they dismissed; and on Friday, though the Committee resumed their labours at elevena . m ., it was four o’clock p . m . before the last Prize was an­nounced to the anxious Candidate. The whole time occupied in examination was fourteen hours. It is but justice to state of some of those who were not so fortunate as to get a Prize at this competition, that they were, in the opinion of the Exami­nators, on a par with some of the successful Candidates as to knowledge, &c.; but over anxiety in the best scholar, at a com­parative public trial, often makes him unsuccessful, and appear to disadvantage. There were so many competitors that the Committee were obliged to adjudge the Prize in each branch to the person who had the fewest errors, though they should be minimum. Several examples were given to the Arithmeticians before the competitors were reduced to the number required. When two or more appeared in the opinion of the Examinators to be of equal proficiency, they followed the rule laid down to them. The Prize was awarded to the youth who exhibited the most accurate knowledge of the Gaelic Language.

The time required for giving in the Report was so limited since the arrival of the books, that I did not intimate a compe­tition for the Society’s Medal; but I doubt not, ere it will be our turn to get Prizes again from the Celtic Society, some may

SB

start up as competitors, though the kilt and trowse are not the costume of the Islanders. Their principal wear is home-made kelt and fancy tartan.

Long may your Society be able to go on in the patriotic course which they have marked out for themselves; and may their efforts be crowned with abundant success, is the wish of the Committee, and of yours truly,

J ohn C am ero n , Minister.N. B. I shall be happy to hear from you respecting the dis­

posal of the remaining book, viz. E. E. Navigators.George Farquharson, Esq. Secy.

of the Celtic Society, Edinburgh.

I o n a .

Iona Manse, 8th April 1834.D e a r S i r , — I have to acknowledge the receipt of your let­

ters of the 8th and 21st February ; as also the handsome dona- nation of Prizes sent by the Celtic Society.

Three of the Schools that competed being at a distance of from twenty to twenty-five miles from Iona, which is at the extremity of the District, Mr. Campbell, the Minister of Kil- finichen, and I, fixed on Bunessan as the most centrical place for the Competition, which was held in the Church there on the 24th March. I hope this arrangement will meet with the approbation of your Society.

On that day eight Schools assembled, with the following numbers: —

Places. Schools. Teachers. No.Iona............Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge...Allan Maclean............ 17Creich . . . . Do. do. do. ...John M ‘Cormick..... 9Ardchivaig... Do. do. do. ...Dugald Macdonald... 26Bunessan. . . Parochial School.................................................John Macdonald....... 37Kilpatrick . . General Assembly’s School.............................. .John Macdougald.... 18Kenloch . . Do. do. ........................... ...John Sinclair............. 8Kilfmichen... Parochial School........................ ............... .... ...Peter Mactàvish...... ^Gribun . . . . Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge... Donald M ‘ Innes....... 3

Total number of Scholars present. . . . 120

These Schools are at present attended by 597 Scholars. You will observe that few came to the Competition from some of the Schools. The day was unfortunately very stormy; and the Schools from which there were fewest are from twelve to sixteen miles distant from the place of meeting, with ferries and rivers intervening.

Notwithstanding the unfavourable state of the weather, the Church was quite crowded. Many of the Parents came from a great distance ; and several Ladies and Gentlemen, and other respectable Inhabitants, attended. After a patient and minute Examination of nine hours, by the Rev. Mr. Stewart of Kin- lochspelve, and myself, Mr. Campbell being unable to attend from bad health, we awarded the Prizes as follows : —

L a t in — 4 Competitors.Names. Place o f Residence. Schools*

1*. Dugald M cInnes, Iona,^ V\WWV\\VM,V% vJBunessan.B ook-k e e p in g — 2 Competitors.

1. Archibald Morrison, B unessan, unessan.E nglish G ra m m a r — 13 Competitors.

1. John Fletcher,w »w .vv .^w ~Tirghaoi],«.^.~.~~.Bunessan.2. Charles M ‘Gilvra,«%».~~^~Killimore,M.M.,w*„.«.Kilfinichen.3. James Sinclair, Kenloch Kenloch.

G eography — 4 Competitors.L John Macphaden,w<kW.WWM.Balavoulin,~* Kilfinichen.

P en m an sh ip — 20 Competitors.1. Alexander M ‘Intyre Ardallanish, Bunessan.2. Archibald Morrison Bunessan, Do.3. Mary Macdonald Ormsaig, Kilpatrick.

1st Class A rith m e tic — 10 Competitors.1. Alèxander M ‘Intyre,^.^.^v^Ardallanish, Bunessan.2. John Macdonald,^^^v^ ,^.Ardtun,^^. Kilpatrick.

2d Class A r it h m e t i c — 6 Competitors.1. Mary Macdonald,^w «%^«^Ormsaig,-^^w %%»» Kilpatrick.

1st Class E nglish R e a d in g — 52 Competitors.1. Margaret Morrison,«,.«M,.WM,Bunessan Bunessan.2. Christina Macphail,w ~M . . * v A r d a c h y , D o .3. Alexander Campbell,^«w*~«Assopol Do.4. Mary Macphee,*wvk«, .w w . Creich,^^,.^^.^__^Creich.5. Malcom Maclean, Knocknafanaig, ~v.~Ardchivaig.6. Hugh Maclean,^.^«»%.« w w Kilfinichen,^.^»vM.^Kilfinichen.7. Margaret Macdonald, Ardchivaig,^«.«w ^Ardchivaig.8. James Sinclair, K e n l o c h , , ^ K e n l o c h .

2d Class E n g lis h R e a d in g — 65 Competitors.1. Neil M ‘Intyre,^^„.^x^..»v^»vArdallanish,^^.«..«Ardchivaig.2. John Brown,*w ^ .««w w ^.^Assopol,»w w .M.«v»Bunessan.3. Hector Campbell Ardchivaig, \\v\vw%\v Ardchivaig.

40

Names. Place o f Residence. Schools.4. Duncan Lament, • WVI, «Ardtun, Kilpatrick.5. Mary Graham Do. Do*

1st Class G a e l ic R e a d in g — 49 Competitors.1. John Fletcher, T inghaoil nessan.2. Archibald Morrison,«»*w »Bunessan, Do.3. Alexander M ‘ Intyre,^w -.,^Ardallanish,w , .^v Do.4. Mary Macdonald,^v^^^Ormsaigj^^.^^.-^wJKjlpatrick.5. Archibald M ‘Innes,~—„—^Gribun,wv . ...v w Gribun.6. Neil Black, « ^ ^ ^ ^ w w «^,Iona, Iona.7. Alexander M ‘Innes,^.»*«..^ Do. ^ « w v » « Mv,v» Do.8. John Macdonald, w «~.~w .,~Ardtun,w w w ».~~Kilpatrick.9. Flora Macphee, ..^^v^Creich, «~~.~~Creich.

10. Donald. Macfarlane,«. Iona,,mMM.,«MMM«%Iona.2d Class G a e l i c R e a d in g — 67 Competitors.

1. Neil M ‘Innes,.^M.~~ww*w%Iona,.^w%w»w*wJona.2. Catharine M'Cormick Creich, Creich.3. Jessie Macdonald, ■^«^«w^Saorphein,~WM..,~,,Bunessan.4. Ann Sinclair, Kenloch,*v.«^^.^^Kenloch.5. Euphemia Macdonald, ^A rdch ivaig Ardchivaig.

No meeting in this country has excited so much interest, except the Iona Club. It was highly gratifying to see the exertions made by the Teachers and Scholars to get to the place of meeting. The aged Schoolmaster of Iona, who has taught there 44 years, walked that morning with his young charge eight miles, besides crossing a bad ferry, although he might well be excused for trusting them to his assistant. W e were also much pleased with the exertions of a child eight years old, and her father, who alternately led and carried her a distance of twelve miles.

I have much pleasure in stating, tbat all the Competitors did great credit to themselves and their Teachers. They particu­larly excelled iu Arithmetic, Gaelic Reading, and W riting; and as it was only the best Scholars from each School that at­tended, it was difficult to decide which were the most deserving of Prizes.. I am convinced, from the anxiety of the Teachers and Scholars, and the pleasure they felt in obtaining Prizes, that your system is very much calculated to forward the inte­rests of Education ; and trust it is not too much to hope that the Celtic Society will give us Prizes in this quarter as often as their rules will admit.

I regret there were no Members of your Society present on this interesting occasion, there being none in this district. May

41

I request; that at your next meeting you will propose my bro­ther, the Rev. D. Campbell, Kilfinichen, and myself. Believe me, yours very truly,

D u n . N. C a m p b e l l .George Farqitharson, Esq.

I n v e r a r a y .

Inveraray, April 26‘ 1834. Sir ,— In the beginning of last winter, I communicated to

the Rev. John M'Dougall, minister of Lochgoilhead, and to the Rev. James Fergusson, minister o f Strachur, the substance of the correspondence with which you honoured me, stating to them the liberality of the Celtic Society to this and the neigh­bouring Districts, and inviting the Schools of Lochfynelread and Strachur to prepare for competing with the Schools o f this Parish on some day in spring, which should be fixed by mutual consènt. Both Mr. M ’Dougall and Mr. Fergusson declined sending the Parochial Schools in their Districts; but the former recommended a Teacher maintained at the expense of the Tenants of Ardnoe, in the Parish of Lochfynehead, to attend the Competition; and the Examination being fixed by procla­mation from the pulpit on Sabbath the 30th day of March, to take place on Tuesday the 8th of April, another private School, taught at Pole in the Parish of Strachur, came forward of their own accord. The following is a List of the Schools, the Num­ber of Scholars, and their Teachers, who appeared on that day in the Parish-church of Inveraray, to compete for the Prizes granted by the Celtic Society ;—

Tmclicrs' Names.

1. Inveraray, United Schools.............................{ ° “ ; g ^ ° Ì £ d} 45 1402. Bridge of Douglas Parochial S c h o o l A r c h i b a l d Bane,. . 10 403. Glenaray, Soc. for Prop. Christian Knowledge Gilbert M ‘Arthur. .13 354. Braleckan, partly endowed by the Duke of A r -1 A •, i •, r,-n- „

gyll, and Jartly supported by the Tenants.. } A *clubald <^ies. • • 95. Kenmuir, supported by the Tenants............. Donald Munro . . . . 6 306. Ardnoe, supported by the Tenants in the Pa- 1 j n

rish of Lochfynehead.................................... / John Crawfoid . . . . 9 307- Pole, in Strachur, supported by the Tenants . Donald M ‘ Intyre . .10 27

TÒÌ 357

These 102 Scholars who attended, were selected as the best among 357, and they seemed full of eagerness and of hope.

A considerable number of the Parents, both in this and the. other two Parishes, attended the Competition, manifesting an

/

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interest in the success of their children, which was in the highest degree pleasing. As Mr. Macdougall and my colleague Mr. Campbell were necessarily absent, I begged the Parents present to select a Committee, who should aid me in adjudging the Prizes to the most meritorious among the Candidates, and the following gentlemen were chosen :—

Mr. William Campbell, writer, Inverary.Dr. John M'Nicol, do.Mr. Robert M ‘Kellar, innkeeper, do.Mr. D. Munro, merchant, ' do.Mr. M £Callum, Preacher of the Gospel, Ardnoe, Locbfynehead.Mr. M ‘Dougall, tacksman of Ardnoe, do.As it was generally understood that the Country Schools

should not be brought into comparison with the Burgh School, on account of the superior advantages of the latter in some branches of education, it was rendered voluntary to the former to compete with the Burgh Schools or not.

Writing and Arithmetic being branches of education in which the Candidates were not, as in English Reading, exposed to any disadvantage on account of their more habitual use of the Gaelic language, the School of Ardnoe, Lochfynehead, ‘ taught by John Crawford, offered to compete with the Burgh School for the Prizes given for W riting; and three Prizes were given as follows:—>

For W h i t i n g .1. To Mary M cCall,um, Ardnoe.2. ,, Duncan M ‘Dougall, Liongharton, near Ardnoe.3. „ Alexander Reddoch, Inverary.

A r i t h m e t i c .The only School who accepted the challenge given by the

Burgh School for this Prize, was that taught at Braleckan by Archibald Gillies; and the Prizes were given thus—

1. To Angus Munro, Inveraray.2. „ Thomas Kirk, Furnace, near Braleckan.3. „ Archibald Campbell, Inveraray.

These Prizes were keenly competed for, and the three fore­mentioned Candidates did not obtain their honours until, at the desire of their Teachers, they were exercised on the most difficult rules in Arithmetic.

On all the other branches the Country Schools competed apart from the Town School.

We found much difficulty in arranging the children into classes, partly because different books were used in different

43

Schools, and partly because we found that all the Prizes would, at least in some branches, be carried off by the Scholars of one Teacher. Thus, the School of Inveraray would have taken all the Prizes given for English, and that of Glenaray all given for Gaelic Reading. In these circumstances, the Committee thought it would be more agreeable to the purposes of the So­ciety, less discouraging to some Districts who laboured faith­fully in supplying themselves with Schools, as well as more generally useful, if after a general comparison o f their merits, Prizes should be adjudged to the best Scholars in each School.

'I state this circumstance, as well to explain what you will per­ceive to be the fact, that some in each School obtained marks of distinction, as to enable the Society to express their wishes upon this point on future occasions. .

The Prizes were adj udged as follows to the Inveraray School:—L a t i n . E n g l i s h G r a m m a r .

1. Niel M ‘Viccar, Inveraray. Angus Munro, Inveraray.2. John Campbell, do.

F r e n c h . E n g l i s h R e a d in g

1. Donald M'Nicol, Inveraray. 1. John Wright, Inveraray.2. Louisa 0 ‘Neill, do. 2. Margaret Sutherland, do.

G e o g r a p h y . 3. Archibald Ewart, do.* Donald M ‘Kellar, Inveraray. 4. Margaret Munro, do.

The Prizes adjudged to the Country Schools were given to the following Candidates :—

E n g l i s h R e a d i n g . Schools.1. John M ‘Dougall, Carnus, Glenaray, — Glenaray.2. Jane Campbell, Dalchenna, do. Br. of Douglas?.3. Dun. M ‘Callum, Ardnoe, Lochfyneside, Ardnoe.4. Mary M cArthur, Pole, Strachur, Pole.5. Norman M ‘Leod, Goatfield, Braleckan.

G a e l ic R e a d in g .1. Dugald M {Arthur, Tullich, Glenaray, ~ Glenaray.2. Catharine Bane, Bridge of D o u g l a s s , B r . of Douglass3. Catharine Campbell, Furnace,^.^.^— Braleckan.4. Mary Campbell, Kenmuir, near Inveraray, Kenmuir.5. Isabel M ‘Nicol, Pole, near Strachur,,^ Pole.

A r i t h m e t i c .1. John M ‘Dougall, Carnas, Glenaray, Glenaray.2. Arch. M ‘Nicol, Pole, near Strachur, Pole.

* The Prize was not given to Donald M ‘Kellar, until having, like some of the Can­didates, answered every question proposed to him, he answered also the questions put to him by them, and asked some they could not answer. For it was found necessary to make diem examine each other, in order to determine their merits.

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Two Prizes of small value being still disposable, were given to two very young children from Glenaray, who made a good appearance, even when brought to compete with their seniors. One o f them, a boy named Charles M ‘Arthur, was in the High­land garb, and was encouraged to wear it by one of the smallest o f the Society’s Prizes, o f which he was very proud. The other was a little girl named Ann Smith.

These Prizes might possibly be given in some cases to indi­viduals of less desert than others who got none; but I believe that all parties were convinced that no partiality was shewn, and also satisfied with the result, in so far as it is possible for the unsuccessful to be satisfied. Every possible attention was also given by the Examinators, some of whom were occupied without intermission from 11 o’clock a . m . to 7 o’clock p. m ., during which the Examination was going on.

As to the general utility o f the plan adopted by the Celtic Society for encouraging Education, I cannot give you a better proof than the testimony of the Teachers, who have told me previous to the examination that they found a spirit of emula­tion among the Scholars such as they never before witnessed; and so keenly did some of them feel the idea o f being overcome by the children of another district, that though they had several miles to travel home, they would not leave the School-room till the approach of night. I have delayed sending this Report until I might enquire whether the stimulus given had lost its influence; and I am happy to inform you, that in those cases which I have had an opportunity of enquiring into, the Scholars are still animated with the same degree of ardour by which they were distinguished before the Examination. I may add, that I consider the influence of a competition, in which several Schools are brought together, to be as po'werful over the Teachers as over their Scholars.

I trust you may not consider that I have been too minute in the details of an Examination which has been as new in this quarter as I hope it shall be beneficial; and I cannot close without mentioning, that the feeling o f gratitude to the Celtic Society is universal in this parish and neighbourhood; and that I trust their disinterested exertions and patriotic zeal may long continue, and be richly rewarded. I have the honour to be, with much respect, your obedient and faithful servant,

C o l i n S m i t h .George Farquhctrson, Esq. W. S.

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K e n m o r e .

Kenmore Manse, 17th April 1834.D e a r S i r , — The lamented death o f the Marquis of Bread-

albane induced me to postpone the day of our Competitory Trial from the Sd to the 10th current. On this latter day we accord­ingly met in the Church here, and as the object of our meeting was known some time before, there was a considerable con­course o f people* I was favoured on the occasion with the presence and aid o f my brethren, Mr. Campbell, Minister of Weem, Mr. Macdonald, Minister of Fortingall, and Mr Dewar, Preacher o f the Gospel, and Assistant to Mr. Menzies, Mi­nister of Dull. J. F. Wyllie, factor to the Marquis of Bread- albane also attended, and kindly gave us the benefit of his assistance. When the meeting had been duly opened by prayer, it was resolved that the Ministers and Mr Wyllie, together with Mr. M ‘Gregor, Parochial Schoolmaster of Dull, Mr. Campbell, Parochial Schoolmaster of Fortingall, Mr. John M ‘Naughton residing at Riemuckie, and Mr. James Anderson, residing at Kenmore, should act as Judges in determining the merit of the several Competitors, and in awarding the Prizes. The Teachers of eight Schools presented themselves, accompanied by such o f their pupils as proposed to compete, in all amounting to the number o f 66 youthful and ardent Candidates. There should have been the Master and Scholars of a ninth School, that of Moreinsh, under the Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge, but they did not come forward, probably on ac­count of the distance, being about 13 miles, and partly, per­haps, because they had attended the Competition at Killin in 1832. The following are the names of eight Stations and their respective Teachers: —1. Kenmore . . . . . Wm. Armstrong . . . . Parochial School.2. Fernan............. Dun. MeNaughton . . Private do.3. Lawers............. Dun. Cameron.............Private do.4. Kiltirie............. Mrs. M'Diarmid . . . . Marchioness of Breadalbane’s do.5. Ardtallanaig . . . Jn. M'Intyre . . . . . . Society for Prop. Christian Knowledge do.6. Shian ................James Macdonald . . . Do. do. do.7. Lurgloman . . . . Alex. Campbell . . . . Private School.8. Riemuckie . . . . John Cameron...........Private do.

Our first object was to classify the Scholars, according to the branches on which they propose to compete, as well as to their state of advancement in these branches; and it was agreed, after having ascertained the number which was to make trial in each department, that 15 Prizes should be alio-

46

eated to English reading, there being three Classes in that department ; — nine to Gaelic Reading, in which department there were two Classes; — six to Arithmetic and Mathema­tics ; r— five to Penmanship;—two to English Grammar;— two to Recitation ;— and one to Latin. That appropriation made altogether 40 Prizes, being the number o f volumes supplied by the bounty of your Society. I have much pleasure in being: enabled to state, on the part of my coadjutors and myself, that the appearance made by our juvenile Candidates for fame and distinction was truly gratifying, and had your employments admitted of your being present, I am sure that you would have carried away with you reasons to regard the day which you had spent in Kenmore as one of your well, if not your best, spent days. You may form some idea of what we had to go through, when I mention that our business commenced at 11 o’clock in the forenoon, and that we were not able to come to a conclusion till it was near seven in the evening. Nor, protracted as the Examination thus became, did its in­terest at any time in the smallest degree abate. The exhibi­tion throughout was a scene o f animated and good humoured rivalry; and, as the Competitors were the Elite o f the several Schools, it became a matter of no little difficulty to settle who should be declared the successful Candidates. There was not one of the Schools which did not furnish an example of marked proficiency in some one branch, as is evinced by the circumstance o f each one o f the eight having carried away its Prize. There were, of course, distinctive differences observable among them ; as, for instance, while almost all read the English with sufficient fluency, the Scholars of the Parochial School were observed to read with less of the Highland accent, and with greater attention to pronunciation and elocution ; in a word, more gracefully than those of the other Schools. Again, the greater proficients in the knowledge o f the Gaelic lan­guage were found to be connected with the remoter Districts. Some few read a portion of the original of Ossian, both with ease and intelligence. Subjoined is a table exhibiting the names of the successful Competitors, and the branches for which they received Prizes, together with the names o f the Stations and Teachers: —

E n g l is h R e a d in g .

Scholars Competitor's. Prize. Station. Description o f School. Teachers.1 Jesse Kippeu - - - - 1st - Kenmore - Parochial School - Win. Armstrong.2 Isabel Skene - - - - 2d - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong.S Duncan M‘Greg or - - Sd - Fernan - - Private School - - Dn, M'Naughton.

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Scholars. Competitors. Prize. Station. Description o f School. Teachers.''4 Alex. M‘Naugliton - 4th - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong.

5 Jean Campbell - - - 5th - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm, Armstrong.6 Duncan M'Intyre - - 6th - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong. *7 Duncan M'Kenzie - - 7th - Lurgloman Private School - - Campbell.8 Catharine Anderson - 8th - Shian Soc. Prop. Chr. Know, James M'Donald.9 Donald Dewar - - - 9th - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong.

10 William Skene - - * 10th - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong.11 Gilbert M'Laren - .- 11th- Fernan - - Private School - - Dn. M'Naughton.12 Chris. M'Diftmid - - 12th - Fernan - - Private School- - Dn.M‘Naughton.13 Alexander Anderson, 13th - Riemuckie - Private School - - John Cameron.14 Catharine M‘Laren - 14th - Lurgloman Private School - - Alex. Campbell.15 Peter M‘Diarmid - -1 5 th - Fernan - - Private School - ■ Dn. M'Naughton.

G a e l ic R e a d in g .above 3 Duncan M'Gregor - 1st - Fernan - - Private School - - Dn. M'Naughton.

16 Malcolm M'Gregor - 2d - Fernan - - Private School - - Dn. M'Naughton.17 Margt. M'Diarmid - 3d - Kiltirie,March.Breadalbane’sSch.Mrs. M'Diarmid.18 Ann M'Gibbon - - - 4th - Kiltirie, March. Breadalbane’s do.Mrs. M'Diarmid.

above 14 Catharine M'Laren - 5th - Lurgloman Private School - - Alex. Campbell,19 Isabel M‘Dougal - - 6th - Ardtalanaig, Soc. Pr. Chr.Know. John M'Intyre.

above 8 Catharine Anderson - 7th - Shian - - Soc. Pr. Chr. Know.James Macdonald.20 Duncan M‘Tavish - - 8th - Shian - . Soc. Pr. Chr. Know.James Macdonald.21 Peter Crerar - - - 9th - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong.

P e n m a n s h ip .22 Alexander Morrison - 1st - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong.23 Robert M'Diarmid - 2d - Ardtalanaig Soc. Pr. Chr. Know. John M'Intyre.24 John M‘ Diarmid - - 3d - Ardtalanaig Soc. Pr. Chr. Know. John M'Intyre.

above 21 Peter Crerar - - - 4th - Kenmore - Parochial School J- Wm. Armstrong.25 John Stewart - - - 5th - Lawers - - Private School - - Dun. Cameron.

A r it h m e t ic a n d M a t h e m a t ic s .above 9 Donald Dewar - - - 1st - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong. abope 3 Dnncan M'Gregor - - 2d - Fernan - - Private School - - Dn. M‘Naughton.

26 Donald Stewart - - - 3d - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong. above 16 Malcolm M'Gregor, - 4th - Fernan - - Private School - - Dn. M'Naughton. above 11 Gilbert M'Laren - - 5th - Fernan - - Private School - - Dn.M'Naughton.

27 Duncan M'Gregor - - 6th - Lurgloman Private School - - Alex. Campbell.E n g l is h G r a m m a r .

above 16 Malcolm M'Gregor - 1st - Fernan - - Private School - - Dn. M'Naughton.28 William M'Farlane - 2d - Lurgloman Private School - - Alex. Campbell.

R e c it a t io n .above 1 Jesse Kippen - - - 1st - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong. above 4 Alex. M'Naughton - 2d - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong.

L a t i n .29 William M'Gregor - 1st - Kenmore - Parochial School - Wm. Armstrong.

I t a p p ea rs , f r o m th e p r e c e d in g ta b le , th a t th e P r iz e s fe ll to th e d iffe re n t S ch o o ls a t th e fo l lo w in g r a t e s : — 15 to K e n m o r e ; 10 to F e r n a n ; 5 to L u r g lo m a n ; 3 to A r d t a la n a ig ; 3 to S h ian ;2 t o K i l t i r i e ; a n d I ea ch to th e S c h o o ls o f L a w e r s a n d R ie ­m u ck ie . O f th ese S c h o o ls fo u r are ta u g h t b y y o u n g m e n e n t ir e ly u p o n th e ir o w n a d v e n tu re , w ith n o a d v a n ta g e b u t th e in s t r u c t io n w h ich th e y h a d a cq u ir e d b y th e ir o w n la b o r io u s

48

exertions, and with no encouragement but the scanty allow­ance promised by the parents, many o f whom are in indigent circumstances, and able to continue their children but for a short time at School. When these inconveniences aie consi­dered, it is matter of wonder that the proficiency of the Children should have been found so creditable, and it speaks strongly in favour o f the talents and diligence of the Teachers. To the Members of your Society it must afford much satisfaction to have to reflect that such a mode of employing a portion of your funds, as was the occasion of our late meeting, cannot but operate as à powerfully impelling motive upon the minds of both Teachers and taught. The extent to which you have been the instru­ments o f good, were it but in our own vicinity, is no trivial consideration. Here, within the compass o f one single district o f the country, you have been the agents in bringing together the Masters o f no fewer than eight Schools, with a train of their Pupils in attendance upon them, and both the one and the other, o f course, under the influence of a strong spirit of emulation. The average number o f young people resorting annually to these humble Seminaries of ours may be estimated at 600. So that, in one of your sections alone, and by a single act of dis­tribution, you have given to eight or nine Teachers, and to several hundred Scholars, an impulse o f which it is impossible to say how great may be the beneficial results. What then must be the benefits arising out o f the aggregate of your ope­rations.

Respectable as was the appearance made by our several Schools, and favourably as it told for our Masters, we must, nevertheless, not conceal from ourselves the fact that there is room, much room, for improvement in our system o f tuition and particularly in that department which has for its object the cultivation of the understanding; and I have not the least doubt but that the Competitory Examinations suggested and encouraged by the Celtic Society, will contribute most mate­rially to the promotion of improvements in that as in other respects, and so give to our rural Schools, if not to keep pace with the rapid and wonderful advances of those o f the towns, yet, at least, not to be left very far behind them. I beg to convey through you to the Society the cordial thanks of my parishioners and myself, and our unfeigned wish that every possible success may crown your meritorious exertions. — I am, Dear Sir, faithfully yours,

D a v id D u f f .G. Farquharson, Esq. fyc. §c.

APPENDIX.

A P P E N D I X .

REPORTS OF DISTRICT SCHOOL EXAMINATIONS.

I. L o c h g il p h e a d — ls£ District.

Lochgilphead, ls£ May 1835.Sir,— I beg leave to intimate to you, that the Competition

for the Prizes given by the Celtic Society to the Schools of this District, took place on Tuesday last, the 28th April, in the Church of Lochgilphead. Previous intimation of the time and place o f Meeting had been given to the Parents o f the Chil­dren, and to the Gentlemen resident in the neighbourhood; and a considerable number of Ladies and Gentlemen attended upon this occasion, and took the liveliest interest in the pro­ceedings of the day.

I was favoured with the assistance of the Rev. Duncan Ran­kin, Minister of South Knapdale, the Rev. Thomas Davidson, Tarbert, and Messrs. Duncan M cNab and Alexander M'Kellar, Preachers of the Gospel, in conducting the Examination ; and a Committee of the Gentlemen present, Colonel M ‘Niel of Achnaba, Chairman, aided us in adjudging the Prizes to the most deserving Candidates.

Competitors, to the number of 130, came forward from the following Schools:

Teachers’ Names. Place.1. J. J. D unlop^w w JPrivate SchooU%~~Lochgilphead.2. Dond. M ‘Niel~~.«.~«. Do. Do.3. Peter Campbell — Do. \\v\ w Do.4. J. I3iirneL»~.w,~»-.~ Do. Do.5. Miss M ‘Dougall~>.~vJFemale School ,.,.*-* Do.6. Hugh Gillies ~«wU,~Parochial 8chool^~Ardrissaig.7. Jn. M 4Corquodale ~^„Private Sehookw* Aird.8. Peter Ferguson v\wv\ Do Do.

2

The Examination occupied more than seven hours, and at the close of the day some of the Junior Classes in English Heading remained unexamioed, owing to the length of time occupied in ascertaining the comparative merits of Competitors in the more advanced Classes. It was therefore agreed to postpone the Examination of the Junior Classes to a future day; and the sum of Three Pounds was collected, in the course o f a few minutes, from the Gentlemen present, to purchase Prizes for the most deserving among them.

The Prizes of the Society were awarded as follows, viz.

L a t in a n d G r e e k C l a s s ic s .Names. Teachers. Schools.

Geo^Hoey } Equal~~«~~~J. J. Dunlop—^^Lochgilphead.

A r i t h m e t i c — 1st Class.Archd. Campbell, 1st Prize-^J. J. Duul op— Do. Dond. M ‘Tavish,^2d Do.^^Hugh Gillies Ardrissaig.

2 d C l a s s .

Sarah Bell,~.«~~lst Prize~ Miss M‘Dougall~>,.,Lochgilphead. Bella M ‘Kellar, ~2d Do. Do. Do.

3 d C l a s s .

Henry Hoey, w m » ls t Prize~J. J. Dunlop Do.Veterina liar k ness, ~2d Do___JVliss MDougalL* Do.Allan Sell, M%\vkvw%«\Sd Do.„%^J. J. 13unlopviw%« Do*D d. Drummond, ~~4th Do.~^Donald M ‘Niel ~ Do.

E n g l i s h R e a d i n g — 1st C l a s s , 1st Division.Js. Hunter 1Hy. Hoey >-Equal^.lstPrize««J. J. D u n l o p D o .D 1. Willis jJames Borthwick, «2d Do.v.^ Do. Do.James B e ll,------ ^~3d Do>w«. Do. Do.Quentin Paterson,^4th Do.~~v Do. Do.

1st C l a s s — 2 d Division.Sarah Bell,ww»w»l8t Prize^Miss M ‘Dougall~~ Do.Bella M ‘ Kellar, »~>2d Do. Do. Do.Jane M'Donald, ~.«3d D o .« Do. Do.Veterina Harkness, 4th Do.»* Do. Do.

3

W r i t i n g — 1st Class. 1. Names. Teachers. Schools.

Donald Ferguson, 1st Prize^xJ. J. Dunlop*^** Lochgilphead. Godfrey M £Niel, ,%~»2d Do.«. Do. Do.Jane McDonald, ~»~3d Do. ~Miss M ‘Dougalkw Do.

W r i t i n g — 2d Class.Jane M ‘Innes,~» 1st Pi ize~* JMiss M'Dougall^.^. Do.John M ‘R e e ,^ — 2d Do. ~,JDonald M ‘Niel Do.Richd. Muirhead,«3d Do. J. Dunlop*%*«.*» Do.

G e o g r a p h y .John Hunter,«. 1st Prize J• J. Dunlop Do.James Hunter,« 2d Do.^^v, Do. Do.Jane McDonald, 3d Do.M%w Miss M ‘Dougall»*„. Do.

G a e l i c R e a d i n g .Archd. Stewart, 1st Prize— John M4Corquodale ~v~Aird. Nancy Turner,«. 2d Do.«^«.Sabbath School ^.^Lochgilphead.Donald Turner, 3d Do. „■----- John M'Corquodale Aird.Angus Morison, 4th Do Hugh Gillies v»Ardrissaig.

Considerable difficulty was felt in ascertaining the compa­rative merits of the young Competitors. In some cases the Candidates were so nearly equal in point of merit, that a dis­tinction could not rightly be made between them. The rule adopted by the Celtic Society in these cases, o f giving the Prize to the youth who exhibited the most accurate knowledge of the Gaelic Language, could not be applied on this occasion, as none of them were acquainted with that language. It was therefore agreed to place them on a footing of equality, and the additional Prizes thus required, have been procured by the Committee at their own expense.

I am happy to be able, in common with many of my bre­thren, whose Reports have been furnished to your Society, to bear my testimony to the beneficial results which have accom­panied the plan adopted by the Celtic Society, for further­ing the interests of Education throughout the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. I do not merely refer to the effect it has produced in diffusing a spirit of emulation among the Scholars:I find it has proved a great incentive to the Teachers also, and that they have been stimulated to fresh exertions in the in­struction of the youth committed to their charge. Nor has it been confined to them alone. The public in general have taken the liveliest interest in the competition o f the various Schools in this quarter; and a most gratifying instance of this

4

was furnished, in the readiness with which they came forward to contribute the sum required for procuring Prizes to the most deserving among the Junior Classses of the various Schools.

It is now intended to hold a yearly Competition in this place, on the plan adopted on this occasion. I feel persuaded that your Society has been the means of awakening the atten­tion o f the Public to this subject, and I trust than an impetus has been given to the interests of Education in this quarter, which will be attended with most beneficial results.

Permit me, through you, to offer the cordial thanks of the Inhabitants of this District to the Celtic Society, for their do­nation of Prizes to our Schools. And, trusting that their patriotic exertions may meet with most deserved success, I have the honour to be, Sir, &c. P e t e r M ‘K i c h a n .

George Farquharson, Esq. W. S.Secy. to the Celtic Society.

II . T o b e r m o r y — 2d District.

Manse of Tobermory, 21 st April 1385.D e a r S i r ,— You are aware, that after the receipt of your

letter o f the 17th April 1884, I scarcely had time before the beginning o f May, to make proper arrangements for distribut­ing the books sent as Prizes to this district by the Celtic So­ciety. I wished very much to give a fair opportunity to several Teachers at this end o f the island to come forward with their Scholars to the Competition; it was therefore deemed advisable, that the distribution should take place on the day appointed for the Presbyterial examination o f the School in this village. Pre­vious intimation was given to four Teachers within a few miles from this place, but neither they nor their Scholars made their appearance. I have now to inform you, that the General As- semby’s School at Tobermory, taught by Mr. Donald Cameron, was examined on the 15th inst., by the following Committee of the Presbytery of Mull, viz. Rev. Dr. M ‘Arthur, Rev. Duncan Clark, Rev. Duncan M ‘Lean, and myself. Hugh M ‘Lean, Esq. of Coll, a Member of your Society, Dr. Daniel M ‘Lean, and other respectable inhabitants of this District, were also present. After a long and strict examination, during which the various attainments of the young Competitors were brought prominently into view, the different Prizes were awarded as follows: —

5

L a t i n C l a s s .

Donald M'Lean, 1st Prize.Hugh M ‘Lachlan, w w 2d Do.

G e o g r a p h y .Hector M ‘Phail.

D r a w in g .John M ‘Callum.

E n g l is h G r a m m a r .Duncan M ‘Leod Ross.

A r i t h m e t i c .John McDonald.

W r i t i n g .John M‘Callum.

E n g l i s h R e a d in g . !1st Class Catherine M ‘Lachlan2d Class-«v»~Ketty M 'Lachlan^^^^^lst Prize.

Lachlan M ‘L t > a n , D o .3d Class«w %Allan M ‘Callurn*,.— __1st Prize.

Margaret M ‘Lean«w w ^2d Do.4th Class. John M ‘Dougall h\wv% 1st Prize.

John Livingston 2d Do.Margaret M ‘Dougall MV»««Sd Do.

5th Class vxw^William RobertsonG a e l ic R e a d i n g .

Janet Campbell.

These pleasing marks of distinction were delivered to the successful Candidates in presence of the Meeting, by Hugh M ‘Lean, Esq. of Coll, who always takes the deepest interest in the moral and religious improvement of this part of the coun­try.. All present were exceedingly gratified by the proceedings o f the day. It is not easy to calculate the beneficial effects which may be produced by the plan adopted by your patriotic Society. A powerful stimulus is thus given, both to Teachers and Scholars, to make every exertion for obtaining a laudable distinction at these Competitions. Great improvements will take place in the method of teaching throughout the High­lands. Young persons of ability and merit will be brought into notice, and encouraged to prosecute their studies. Many

6will remember in after life the boon so early conferred upon them by the Celtic Society.

The Presbytery of Mull have always expressed themselves highly satisfied with the state of the Assembly’s School at To­bermory. There are very few seminaries in the Highlands su­perior to it. During the winter seasons it has been sometimes attended by upwards of 200 Scholars. Mr Cameron is most assiduous in the discharge of his duties. The neighbouring Teachers are also exerting themselves in the improvement of their Schools ; and it is more than probable, should the Celtic Society be pleased to renew their handsome donation of books to this District, that the Youth of Tobermory will not be the sole Competitors.

O f those who received Prizes on Wednesday last, there are two boys who, from the humble circumstances o f their pa­rents, and their own diligence and success, are deserving of peculiar notice. These are Hugh M'Lachlan, son of Dugald M ‘Lachlan, tailor, and Hector M ‘PhaiI, son of Alexander M ‘Phail, shoemaker, both residing in Tobermory. — I am, &c.

F i n l a y M a c p h e r s o n .George Farquharson, Esq.

Secy. to the Celtic Society, Edinburgh.

III . C o l l a n d T y r e e — 3d District.

Manse of Tyree, Argyllshire, 7th July 1885.D e a r S i r , — I have the pleasure of informing you, that the

thirty-two Prize Books which you lately transmitted from the Celtic Society for the encouragement of the Schools in this parish, have now been distributed; one half o f them here, and the other half in Coll, agreeably to the conversation we had on the subject in Edinburgh. As these books arrived only a few days before I proceeded to the General Assembly in May last, the Competition could not possibly take place so soon as the regulations of the Celtic Society direct: we lost, how­ever, no unnecessary time. In awarding the Prizes, I had the satisfaction in being aided by one of my co-presbyters, the Rev. Mr. Clark of Torosay, who had come to assist at the administration of the Lord’s Supper here, on the Sunday previous. A number o f the more respectable Inhabitants also attended to witness the exhibition.

I regret there was not such a turn out o f Scholars on this oc* csion as I expected, and could have wished. It is proper to

observe, however, that the children attending School here, are chiefly from among the poorer and labouring classes of people; and that at this season of the year, many of them, more espe­cially the oldest and most forward Scholars, are withdrawn from School for a time, to assist their parents and families in their agricultural pursuits. This I am persuaded is a principal reason why they did not muster stronger at the Competition: and should a similar occasion occur in future, we must take oare that an earlier season, not later than the month of March or beginning of April, be appointed for the purpose.

On Wednesday last, the 1st instant, according to notice pre­viously given, Three Schools assembled at the Parish Church, with the following numbers, viz. : —

Scholars.Parochial School at Helipol, Niel Taylor, Teacher, . . . 28 Parochial School at Kirkapol, Robert Walker, Teacher, . . 27 Private School at Hianish, William M'Phail, Teacher, . . 9

Total, . . 64s To whom 16 Prizes were given as follows : —

I. F o r P r o f ic ie n c y in A r it h m e t ic .Scholars' Names. Schools. Parents' Names.

1. Malcolm M'Dougall. Kirkapol* . Hugh M'Dougall, Crofter.2. Archd. M'Kinnon . . Do. . . Archd. M‘Kinnon, Ploughman.3. Donald M'Lean . . . Do. . . John M‘Lean, Crofter.

II. F o r P r o f i c i e n c y in W r i t i n g .1. Allan Campbell . . . Helipol*. . Hector Campbell, Crofter.2. Malcolm M'Dougall. Kirkapol* . Hugh M'Dougall, Crofter,3. Allan M‘Donald . . . Hianish . , . Angus M'Donald, Crofter.

III. F o r P r o f i c i e n c y in E n g l i s h R e a d in g .1. Robert M‘Farlane . .Helipol* . . William M'Farlane, Crofter,2. Allan M'Donald . . . Hianish. . . Angus M'Donald, Crofter.3. Flora M'Dougall. . . Helipol* . . Duncan M'Dougall, Crofter.

IV. For P r o f i c i e n c y in G a e l i c R e a d in g .1. Donald Clarke . . . . Kirkapol*.. Hugh Clarke, Crofter.2. Hugh M‘Kinnon . . . Hianish. . . Donald M'Kinnon, Crofter.3. Christina M‘Lean . . Helipol* . . Hector M‘Lean, Crofter.

* Parochial Schools.

8The four remaining Prizes were given to the younger Scho­

lars for general good conduct, and for encouragement, viz. —■Scholars’ Names. Schools. Parents’ Names.

1. Archd. M‘Kinnon , . Kirkapol*. . Dugald M‘Kinnon, Tailor.2. Donald M‘Intyre. . . Helipol*.. . John M‘Intyre, Crofter.3. Ann M‘Kinnon . . . . Kirkapol*.. John M'Kinnon, Crofter.3. Catherine Campbell. Helipol* . . Hugh Campbell, Crofter.

On Friday 3d instant, five Schools assembled at the Church in Coll, consisting of the following numbers : —

Scholars.Gen1. Assembly School at Arileoid, Alex*. Stewart, Teacher, 50 School at Arnabost,t supported by the Society for propagating

Christian Knowledge, William Swanson, Teacher, . . . 1 Gaelic School at Arinangour, Donald Fowler, Teacher, . . 3 Private School at Kilbride, supported by the People, Donald

M‘Lean, Teacher................................... ........ . . 1 3Sewing School at Clabbach, M‘Fadyen, Teacher, . 40

Total, . . . 1 0 7 Sixteen Prizes were adjudged to them, as under: —

I . A r it h m e t ic .Scholars' Names. Schools. Parents' Names.

1. John Stewart.........Arileoid;}:. . Alexander Stewart, Teacher.II. W r i t i n g .

1. John Stewart......... Arileoid . . Alexander Stewart Teacher.2. Neil M‘Donald . . . . Do. . . Dond. M‘Donald, Ten*, at Caolis.

III. E n g l is h R e a d i n g — 1st C l a s s .1. John Stewart......... Arileoid . . Alexander Stewart, Teacher*2. Donald McDonald . . Arnabost. . Donald M'Donald, Turner.3 . Catherine M‘Lean . . Arileod . . . Christina M'Lean.4. Ann M‘Lean......... Kilbride . . Allan M'Lean, Boat-carpenter.

E n g l is h R e a d in g — 2d C l a s s .

1. Christina M‘Kinnon. Arileoid . . John M‘Lean, Tailor.2. Mary Nicolson . . . . Do. . . .’ Widow Nicolson.

E n g l is h R e a d in g — 3d C l a s s .1. Catherine M‘Fadzen. Arileoid . . Hector M‘Fadyen, Labourer.2. Christina M‘Lean .. Kilbride . . Roderick M‘Lean.

* Parochial Schools. $ General Assembly’s School.It may not be improper to mention here, that the School at Axnabost, supported

by the Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge, has not been assembled for some time, in consequence of the Teacher’s family having been confined in the small pox. This accounts for the small number from that School who appeared at the Com­petition.

9IV. G a e l ic R e a d i n g — 1st C l a s s .

Scholars’ Names. School. Parents' Names.1. Neil M'Donald . . . * Arileoid... Donald McDonald, Tenant.2. Donald M'Lean . . . Kilbride . . Allan M‘Lean, Cottar.

G a e l ic R e a d in g — 2 d C l a s s .1. Janet M'Lean . . . Sewing School. . . D. M‘Lean, Ground-officer2. Mary M‘Fadyen . . Sewing School. . . Angus M‘Fadyen, Tenant.3. Flora M‘Innes. . . . Gaelic School. . . John M‘Innes, Crofter.

This report has extended to such a length, and is necessarily so much occupied with matters of detail, that I shall not at-

* tempt to trespass on your patience by adding more. It would be unpardonable, however, to conclude without expressing, in name and in behalf of my parishioners, the sense we entertain o f the repeated kindness and liberality of the Celtic Society, and of the laudable exertions they are making to promote the welfare of their remoter and poorer*Celtic Countrymen. With every wish for their prosperity and success, I remain, .Dear Sir, your’s faithfully, N. M a c l e a n .

George Farquharson, Esq.Secv. to the Celtic Society, Edinburgh.

IV . K i l m a n i v a i g — kill District.

Kilmanivaig, 24th April 1835.

D e a r S i r , —- I have to acknowledge the receipt o f your esteemed and obliging letter, accompanying 32 Prize Books, allotted by the Celtic Society for the Schools o f this parish. Friday the 10th inst. was fixed for the Competition, when 160 Scholars met at the Parish School-house, eager to enter the lists in honourable rivalry. There are upwards of 400 Scholars at­tending instruction in this parish. The Competitors assembled were from four Schools only, the great distance o f the Glengarry District having precluded the attendance o f the Scholars from that quarter, amounting to upwards of 100. The Scholars from the remoter Schools marched up to the spirit-stirring strains o f our national music,: and were received by those of the Parochial School with three cheers, Masters and Scholars evidently partaking of the laudable enthusiasm becoming so interesting an occasion. There are no Members of your ex­cellent Society in this neighbourhood, but several ladies and

B

10

gentlemen of the district were present, and also some of the Parents of the children. After prayer, a Committee for ex­amination was formed, of the following gentlemen, to assist in the business of the day, viz.—

Captain McDonald of Kilichonate, B.L. and J. P. in the Chair.

Colonel Ross, Tirndrish, of the H. E. I. C. S.Captain McDonald, Glenturret.The Rev. James M ‘Intyre o f Glengarry.Mr Donald Kennedy, Preacher of the Gospel.

The School-house being found too small for the concourse assembled, it was necessary to repair to the Parish-cburch.

It was gratifying to behold the neat, healthy, and cleanly appearance of the children, many of them dressed in their na­tive mountain garb. The Schools from which the Competitors came forward, were as follows : —

1st, Parochial School, John M ‘Lecd, Teacher.2d, General Assembly’s School at Bunroy, Duncan Fisher.3d, Glasgow Auxiliary G. S. S. School at Tomacharrich,

Peter M ‘Dougall.4th, Private School at Brackletter, Neil Kennedy.

Owing to the great extent of this parish, and the number receiving instruction, I judged it expedient to increase the number of Prizes to 62, consisting of copies o f the Scripture, eight Prizes being reserved for Competition in Glengarry.

The Competitors were arranged into the following 9 Classes, — 1st, English Reading; 2d, Gaelic Reading; 3d, Religious Knowledge; 4th, Penmanship; 5tli, Arithmetic; 6th, Book­keeping; 7th, Geography; 8th, English Grammar; 9th, Latin and Greek Classics.

The serious work of the day began at ten o’clock a . m ., and continued till seven o’clock p. m ., when it was found that we had not gone more than half way through. It was, therefore, unani­mously resolved to adjourn to eleven o’clock next day, when the young aspirants to literary distinction entered upon their probationary labours with renewed vigour; and it was only at a late hour of the evening o f the second day, that the final scene was closed, when the Prizes were adjudged as fol­lows :—

1. E n g l i s h R e a d i n g — Four Classes—18 Prizes.—1st Class, 20 Competitors;2d, 19; 3d, 62 ; 4th, 54.

Prize* Successful Competitors. Residence and School. Teachers.Junr. 1. Marselly Cameron, Stronaba, Parochial,................. John M £Leod.

2. John Brown, . . . Achneich, Bunroy,.................. Duncan Fisher.2d. 1. Donald Cameron, . Boarder at Parochial,............... John M ‘Leod.

2. Rachel Cameron, . Stronaba, do. .................. Do.3. John Cameron, . . Rattichbeg, do....................... .. Do.

Extra, Donald Cameron,. Tomacharrich, Tomacharrich, . Peter M £Dougall.3d. 1. Cath. M £Intyre, . Bridge of Roy, Bunroy,..........Duncan Fisher.

2. Rob. R . M £Intyre, Manse of Kilmanivaig, Paroch1. John M ‘Leod.3. Amelia M'Kenzie, Killichonate, do. . Do.4; Mary M £Kinnon, . Unachan, do. . Do.5. Hughina McDonald, Torlundy, Tomacharrich,. . . . Peter M ‘Dougall.6. Adam M'Intosh, . Achnacoichen, B u n roy ,.......... Duncan Fisher.

Extra, Donald M £Phee, . Bunroy, do.................. Do.4th. 1. Martin M £Intyre, . Manse of Kilmanivaig, Paroch1. John M £Leod.

2. John Campbell,. . Achnachoichen, Bunroy, . . . . Duncan Fisher.3. John Fisher, . . . Bunroy, son o f Do.4. Christ. Fisher, . . Do. daughter of Do.

2. G aelic R eading— T wo Classes— 6 Prizes— 1st Class, 28 Competitors; 2d, 21.1st. 1. John Stewart,. . . Lindally, Bracklettir,............... Neil Kennedy.

2. Sarah Cameron, . . Tomacharrich, Tomacharrich, . Peter M £Dougall.2d. 1. Donald M £Callum, Achnahanate, Parochial, . . . . John M ‘Leod.

2. Alex. Cameron, . . Rachmoore,. . . do. ........... Do.•3. Margaret Cameron, Tomacharrich, Tomacharrich, . Peter M ‘DougaIl.4. John M £Arthur, . Achluachrach, B u n roy ,.......... Duncan Fisher.

3. R e l i g i o u s K n o w l e d g e — Two Classes— 5 Prizes.—1st Class, 10 Competitors; 2d, 21.

Junr. 1. Ewen Cameron,. . Stronaba, Parochial,................John M ‘Lcod.2. Amelia M £Kenzie, Killichonate, do. ................ Do.

2d. 1. John M £Tavish, . Gairlochy, do............... .. Do.2. Donald Cameron, . Blairour, do....................... Do.3. Cath. Scott, . . . . Torlundy, Tomacharrich, . . . . Peter M £Dougall.

4 . P e n m a n s h i p — Three Classes— 9 Prizes.Junr. 1. Sarah Cameron, . . Achnahanate, Parochial, . . . . John M ‘Leod.

2. Adam M ‘Intosh, . Achnacoichen, Bunroy,..........Duncan Fisher.3. John Cameron, . . Lindally, Bracklettir, ............. Neil Kennedy.

2d 1. Donald Cameron, . Do. do. . . . . . . . Do.2. Alex. Cowie, . . . Boarder at Parochial, .............John M £Leod.

3. Donald Cameron, . Do. do. . . . . . . . Do.4 . Janet Cameron, . . High Bridge, do. - ............... Do.5. Christ. Fisher, . . . Bunroy, Bunroy, ....................Duncan Fisher.

3d. 1. Angus M ‘Kinnon, Loy Bridge, Parochial, ..........John M ‘Leod.2. Donald Cameron, . Achnahanate, Parochial, . . . . Do.

5. A r i t h m e t i c — Two Classes— 7 Prizes— 1st Class, 10 Competitors ; 2d, 21..Tunr. 1. Donald M ‘Donald, Bohuntine, B unroy,................. Duncan Fisher.

2. Angus Boyle, . . . Bunroy, do. ............... Do.2d. 1. Angus M ‘Master, Murlagan, do. ................ Do.

2. John Campbell,. . Achnacoichen, do....................... Do.3. Alex. Cameron, . Ratlichmore, Parochial,..........John M £Leod.4. Alex. Cowie, . . . Boarder at do. ............... Do.5. John Fisher, . . . Bunroy, Bunroy, .................. Duncan Fisher.

6. B o o k - k e e p i n g — 1 Prize— 5 Competitors ■p. , f Angus M ‘Kinnon, Loy Bridge, Parochial, . . . . . John M ‘Leod. jClua ’ | Alex. Cameron, . Ratlichmore, do. .......... Do.

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7- G e o g r a p h y — 2 Prizss— 18 Competitors.Prize. Successful Competitors. Residence and School. Teacher.

1st. Mart. M'Intyre, . Manse of Kilmanivaig, Paroch1. John M ‘Leod.2d. John Campbell, . Achnacoichen, B unroy,..........Duncan Fisher.

8. E n g l i s h G r a m m a r — 2 Prizes— 8 Competitors.1st. Mart. M ‘Jntyre, . Manse of Kilmanivaig, Paroch1. John M £Leod.2d. Donald Cameron, Blarour, do. . Do.

9 . L a t i n a n d G r e e k C l a s s i c s — Two Classes—4 Prizes—6 Competitors.Junr. 1 Patrick M £Nab, . Tirndrish, Parochial, .............John M ‘Leod..Equal. J John Fisher,. . . Bunroy, Bunroy, ..........Duncan Fisher.Advd. 1. Martin M ‘Intyre, Manse of Kilmanivaig, Paroch1. John M cLeod.

2. Donald Cameron, Blarour, do. . Do.Parochial School, 29 Prizes ; Bunroy, 17 ; Tomacharrich, 5 ; Bracklettir, 3 ;

= 54 Prizes.

The whole proceedings afforded the highest gratification to the Committee and all the Spectators, and were most credi­table to Teachers and Scholars.

Without entering into minute details, X cannot help particu­larly pointing out one striking feature in the present system of Education here, that of exercising the Scholars in translating from English into Gaelic, and vice versa ; and considering that we are in Lochaber, the centre of the Highlands, the profi­ciency made by the Scholars in the knowledge of English vocables and phraseology is truly astonishing, and by which means a way will be opened to the youth of our romantic glens to eminence and distinction in the different departments of the commonwealth.

I cannot close this Report without expressing my own sen­timents, and that of the Committee, as to the great utility of the patriotic exertions of the Celtic Society, and tendering our most cordial thanks for the favour conferred upon this large Parish, and expressing our sincere wish for the prosperity of your excellent Institution.

As to the honorary Prize to be given to the “ Highlander who shall either habitually or most constantly wear the High­land dress of home-made tartan,” as nothing had been said in your letter, I beg to receive farther instruction. There are two or three individuals in the Parish, who, I believe, have worn no other dress than the above; and, perhaps, the proper rule for deciding the point between them would be, to award the Prize to the oldest. As the dress, even in Lochaber, is falling fast into desuetude, I request your particular attention to this matter. I shall send the Glengarry Report as soon as possible. — And I remain, &c. John M acIktyrje.

George Farquharson, Esq. W. S.See’1, to the Celtic Society.

V. S o u th U ist — 5th District.

South Uist, 23d April 1835.D e a e Sie, — The kindness of the Celtic Society has afforded

us an opportunity of witnessing another exhibition, equally in­teresting and satisfactory with what was reported to you from the Benbecula District of this Parish, on 3d April 1834. Ow­ing to the advanced period of the season last year, when an ad­ditional supply of Books came to hand for the rest of the Parish, it was judged proper to delay till now a meeting of the Schools, in order to ensure a fuller attendance. Tuesday last was the day appointed for the Competition, and though the greater num­ber of the Children had to travel a distance of 13 miles to Stonybridge, a place centrically situated, such was the interest excited by the occasion, that about 50 were in attendance, being the strongest and most advanced in the following Schools : — Parish School, taught by Mr. Norman M 'Lean; the Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge, their School, taught by Mr. Duncan Campbell, at Jachdar; General Assembly’s School at Kildonen, taught by Mr. Donald Morison ; School at Bois- dale, from the Glasgow Gaelic Auxiliary Society, taught by Mr. Donald Robertson ; and a School at Stonybridge, taught by James Fraser, on his own adventure. After Prayer, a mi­nute Examination took place, conducted by me, Mr. Farquhar M ‘Rae, Missionary Minister at Boisdale, and Mr. John Chis­holm, Roman Catholic Priest of the District, and some gentle­men o f the parish who were present on the occasion. The Prizes, 14 in number, were awarded in the following man­ner : —

I. Three Prizes for Proficiency in E n g l i s h L a n g u a g e , viz.1 To Charles M'Lean, from Parish School.2 To John M‘Leod and John M‘Innes, Boisdale, do.

II . Six Prizes for Proficiency in G a e l i c L a n g u a g e , viz.1 To Roderick M‘Lean, from Parish School.2 To Archibald M‘Donald and Angus Bethune, Stonybridge, do.2 To Malcolm Morison and John M‘Lellan, Kildonen, do.; and1 To John MacEachen, Jachdar School.

III . Three Prizes for Proficiency in W r i t i n g , viz.1 To Hugh Munro, Parish School.1 To Angus Machines, Boisdale, do.; and1 To Neil MacEachen, Kildonen, do.

14

IV. Two Prizes for Proficiency in A r i t h m e t i c , viz.1 To Donald M‘Lellan, Parish SchooJ, and 1 To Ewen Macdonald, Stonybridge, do.

I have to state, that we were highly gratified by the appear­ance of the Children in every department in which they were examined. Considering the irregular attendance at most or all of the Schools, the manner in which they acquitted themselves is very creditable both to their talents and industry. The Exa- minators were particularly gratified by the ease and correctness with which they read and spelled Gaelic, and the ingenuity with which they explained some words in both languages, In fine, we have no doubt but the manner in which the Examination was conducted, and thePrizes were awarded, will be instrumen­tal in exciting the diligence of Teachers and Scholars to make even a better appearance on some future occasion.

With thanks to the Society, and best wishes for their pro­sperity, I am, Dear Sir, yours very truly,

R odk. M ‘L e a n , Minister at South Uist.

V I. D o r n o c h — 6th D istrict

Dornoch, 20th April 1835.D e a r S i r , — About a month ago I was favoured with your

letter of 13th February, accompanying a set of Prize Books presented by the Celtic Society to the Schools in the Parishes of Dornoch and Creech, and asking me to superintend the arrange­ments for a Competition.

I have now to inform you, that immediately on receipt of your packet, I set about the necessary preparations for carrying into effect the views of the Society; and having written to all the Schoolmasters, and concerted with the Clergymen and Gentlemen o f the District, Tuesday last, the 14th instant, was fixed for the Examination.

At an early hour the several Schools began to assemble; some of them marching into town to the heart-stirring strains of the bagpipe, and displaying a very considerable portion of tartan dresses, expressly got up for the occasion. About ten o’clock, the whole Competitors, to the number of 198, were arranged in Classes within the Cathedral, and the doors were shortly there­after thrown open to the public. From the interesting nature of the exhibition, a large assemblage of all ranks were attracted

15to the scene, among whom were a great many Ladies and Gentlemen; — of the latter, who took an active part in the pleasing duty of the day, I have to mention, George Gunn, Esq., Factor for the Duchess-Countess of Sutherland; Thomas Gordon, Esq., Sheriff-substitute; Drs. Ross of Cambusmore, and MacEwen of Cyderhall; Messrs. James Rose, William Munro, and George feennedy, Dornoch ; George Forbes, Pulrossie; the Magistrates of Dornoch ; and the Rev. Messrs. Kennedy of Dornoch ; Mackenzie, Rogart; and MacPherson, Golspie.

Mr. Mackenzie having been chosen Preses, constituted the Meeting by prayer. The Teachers were then called up with their Lists, when they were found to stand as follows : —

Teachers' Names. Schools. Nos.John Davidson Dornoch, ParochialMurdow MacDonald, w JBalvraid, General Assembly« .» « ^ 2 6David Young,^^^ kibo, dittoDavid Murray, ~~^~~»~Skelbo, Society for P. G. Knowl.W vlODuncan RosSj^^.w^^^Birichen, ditto «-«.31Duncan R oss,~~«tw >.,.,,v*Whiteface, P. of Creech, Gen. As. 42

Drimdevan, Private

198The other Schools in the Parish of Creech did not come

forward, in consequence o f the shortness of the day and the dis­tance from this place. At the above Seven Schools, out of which the above number was selected, there were 488 Scholars in attendance during the last Winter.

The Prizes were thus apportioned : —For L a t i n , F o r Penmanship and Book-keeping, v*4

„ Gaelic, w « w 4 „ English Reading and Grammar,«.8 ,, Arithmetic, .«3 „ Reading and Spelling,***«^«.«,10

In all 32, corresponding to the number of Books sent; and they were Swarded as follows : —

L a t i n .1st Prizew »wJohn Davidson^WM.w w ^,^Dornoch School.2d Do William Munro Do. Do.3d Do William Rule^^.^x_________Skibo Do.

G a e l i c .1st Prize Helen Mackay— --------- ---- »^Whiteface School.2d D o.^^-^E liza R a m s a y D o . Do.3d Do. ----- ^Robert M ackay««<w *w^vJ3irichen Do.4th Do • ■VX'W'V' -V'VHugh Rossv%«w w ^v>«^.v%^Whiteface Do.

16’

E n g l is h R e a d i n g a n d S p e l l in g .1st Prize^,^-M.Donald Rossw ».^w^~-M.,.w»v*Skibo School.2d Do. wlames M 4Intyre«.«^.«-» Do.

4th Do. ^Margaret Ross~~>~~~*v Do. Do.5th Do. w«v> _____Do. Do.6th Do. ____ Do.7th Do. Do.8th Do. wJohn Fraser^.^..^*^.*™_____Do. Do,9th D o.____ ^.Thomas Gordon^.

10th Do. ~w„~~Angus Rossw ^.^vW.~».«.-«.w«Driindevan Do.E n g l is h R e a d i n g a n d G r a m m a r .

1st Prize^.^.M.wJohn Rule^^^.^W v~w«~~».Skibo School.2d Do. ^ ^ ^ X il ly MacAndrew^..*^^^^ Skelbo Do.3d Do.*v«.«,*^John Mackay Bal vraid Do.4th Do. — __~Paul Mackay Skibo Do.5th Do. w^^JVlargaret Ross~w w w w ~~Whiteface Do.6th Do. ~~^~~Dugald Ross,,. Do. Do.7th Do. w »^.^,«.Sibbla Mackay Do. Do.8th Do. «„,^,«~Donald MacAndrew Skelbo Do.

W r i t i n g a n d B ook-k e e p i n g .William Murray Skibo School.John Ross~______ ________Whiteface Do.Hugh Matheson .^.^^.^.^^.Balvraid Do.John Grant~v*v%^~~.«~«,»%Whiteface Do.

A r i t h m e t i c .Hector Munro (Clashmore) Skibo School.Hector Munro (Torbuie)~v» Do. Do.Eric Mackay ________ Balvraid Do.

The Examination occupied upwards of eight hours, and dur­ing the whole of that period the interest never once flagged. In every branch the Competition was extremely keen, and the Prizes severely contested for. After the successful Candidates had been declared, the Books were delivered to each of them, accom­panied with suitable addresses, by the Rev. Mr. Kennedy, who in a speech of some length, and in very appropriate terms, con­gratulated the Teachers and Pupils on the favourable termination of the business of the day— the eclat they had won to themselves, and the deep obligations one and all were under to that patriotic Society, whose benevolent exertions in the cause of Education had been the Jirst to give a stimulus to learning in this part of the country — that nothing was better calculated for creating a

17spirit o f emulation among them, than public examinations of the character they had just witnessed, and that he sincerely trusted he would soon see them renewed. He alluded also to the prompt manner in which so great a number had complied with one o f the Society’s primary objects, viz. the adoption of the ancient Highland Dress; that it afforded him much satis­faction to «ee the garb again revived, and he hoped it would once more become the general costume of the District, especially among the youth.

I may add, that before dismissing, the whole Competitors partook of a refreshment provided for them by the liberality and kindness of the Gentlemen present. And as one instance o f the anxiety evinced to meet the views of the Society, it is worthy of remark, that although there were only three weeks previous notice o f the Competition, upwards of 50 were dressed in tartan, and above 20 boys appeared in the full costume o f the Gael. Indeed, one boy, George Barclay, son o f Mr. Thomas Barclay, Skelbo, was so handsomely equipped, that an extra Prize was presented to him. — I am, Dear Sir, yours truly,

/% km. S. F r a s e b .To George Farquharson, Esq. W. S.

Secv. to the Celtic Society, Edinburgh.

VII. L a i r g — 7th District.

Lairg> 17th March 1835.S ir , — I was favoured, early in January, with your kind

communication o f 27th December, together with a parcel o f Books (19 vols.) sent by the Celtic Society as Prizes to the Schools in this Parish.

W e have only one School in this Parish, and I certainly con­sider it the most prosperous in the county. In corroboration o f this, I might refer to Professor Pillans, who kindly visited it some years ago, and expressed himself highly gratified with the manner in which it is conducted. Perhaps it is proper to mention, that in a District of the Parish, too far from this School, the people employ a boy teaching their children for three or four months in winter; but, as you will readily believe, they make no proficiency; consequently I considered it utterly un­necessary to call them to the Competition. But, not to trespass more upon your patience with preliminary remark, I proceed

c

18to give a report of the Competition, which certainly ought to be a very favourable one.

It took place on the 19th February, when the number of Scholars was 93.

After a long and impartial Examination for upwards of five hours, the Prizes were awarded as follows : —

1 . To Duncan Sutherland, for Geography & General Knowledge.2. „ Wm. Sutherland, for Latin, &c., in which he seemed well

grounded indeed.3. „ Geo. Ross, for Book-keeping, in which he is well grounded.4. „ James Sutherland, for English Grammar.5. „ George Matheson, . . . 1st Prize for Arithmetic.6. ,, John Matheson,.........2d do. for do.7. ,, Finlay Bethune, . . . . 3d do. for do.8. „ William MfDonald, . . 1st Prize for Penmanship.9. „ Hector Robertson,. . . 2d do. for do.

10. ,, John M'Kay,............. 3d do. for do.11 . „ Hugh M‘Donald, . . . 1st Prize for Biblical Knowledge.12. ,, John MeKay,............. 2d do. for do.13. ,, Hugh M(Kay,........... 3d do. for do.14. ,, William Murray, . . . . 1st Prize for English Reading.15. ,, Robert M‘K ay ,......... 2d do. for do.16. ,, John Gray,................3d do. for do.17* „ May M 'K ay,............. 1st Prize for Gaelic Reading.18. „ Isabella Douglas, . . . . 2d do. for do.19. „ Johanna M‘Kay, . . . . 3d do. for do.

Perhaps you may think this unnecessarily prolix; but I beg to assure you, that if you had been present at the proceedings of that day, you would be highly delighted, and so would any of that Society who take such an interest in the education of the Highlanders., I am now an old man — have been at the Exa­mination of Schools for about 40 years — and I can honourably declare, that I do not recollect any sight of the kind more gra­tifying than that of our School on the occasion alluded to in this letter. Our Schoolmaster is equally diligent, and equally successful, in instructing his young charge in the doctrines of the Bible, as in any other department.

Wishing the Society, in which you take such an active part, more and more success in their laudable intentions, I remain, Dear Sir, yours respectfully and sincerely,

D u n . M ‘ G i l l i v r a y .

My age, and consequent infirmities, are my apology for any inaccuracies in the preceding.

George Farquharson, Esq.Secy, to the Celtic Society, Edinr.

19

Manse of Petty, 1st June 1835.D e a r S ir , — The announcement o f the resolution o f the

Celtic Society making this a station for their Competition, I received with great satisfaction. As soon as I received your Prizes, I intimated the circumstance to the Presbytery o f In­verness, of which I am a member, and obtained a Committee to conduct the Examination, which was appointed for the 22d of April. On that day, in addition to the Children of this Parish School* there were present the Teachers and Scholars from four other Schools — Mr. Falconer, of the Parish School o f Croy; Mr. Kemp, of the Parish School of Daviot; Mr. Forsyth, Private -School o f Campbeltown; and Mr. M ‘Gillivray, with <e The Society School,” Culloden. The Examination lasted for six hours; and was conducted by the Rev. Messrs. Fraser o f Kirkhill, Campbell o f Croy, and M 4Pherson o f Inverness, and myself, in presence of a large assembly of people in the Parish Church.

The plan on which we conducted the Examination was as follows : — In order to ascertain proficiency in Reading, Spell­ing, and Grammar, a passage was fixed upon; and the Scholars removed to an end of the church. Each came in succession, and read the same passage, and was then questioned in every pos­sible way by each of the Teachers, or any of the Clergymen. In this manner, each Child had the advantage o f being examined by his own Teacher, and to undergo the ordeal of all the others. By this method, each Teacher saw the method of examination adopted by the others.

In the Catechism and Scriptural Knowledge, as also Geo­graphy, Mental Calculations, and Questions on the Slate, they were examined in Classes, where those whose answers were given most readily and correctly were reckoned superior.

From the School o f Croy, besides the above branches, we had specimens of Recitation, and some o f Latin.

A ll the Classes and sub-divisions, which we left to be pre­arranged among the Teachers themselves, amounted to 16. But as several Children excelled in two or three branches, in­stead of giving Prizes for each branch, we gave the largest Books to them; and, in this manner, we were so enabled to distribute the Prizes among the Children of the different Schools, as to give avowed satisfaction to all the Teachers. Indeed, so creditable were the appearances of the Children to themselves and their Teachers, that our regret was, that we

V III. P e t t y — 9tk District

20

had not more Prizes. So convinced were some of the spectators o f this, that in cases where some of the Children manifested great proficiency, but could not be included among those who were to receive Prizes,, they provided them Prizes out of their own pockets.

One promiscuous Class was first made o f all who could repeat the Catechism, when the slightest, not merely verbal, but lite­ral error, was sufficient to cause the Scholar who made it to be sent to his or her seat; and at last there remained —

Isabella M ‘Donald,

»Of the School o f Croy.Mary Allan,John Grant,Jessy M ‘Donald,Catharine Kelly,

No Prizes were given for this ; but it was made a conside­ration, when any of the five shewed merit, but were not first, in any other department, and determined the Examinators in giving Prizes to Isabella M ‘Donald and Catharine Kelly.

F i r s t B e a d i n g C l a s s .1st, Janet M <Donald— 2d, Janet Fraser;

3d, George M ‘Donald, Croy.Donald M ‘Pherson, Culloden School.

Mary Rose, Daviot School.B i b l e C l a s s .

William Munro, Campbeltown School—Ann M«Donald, Croy N e w T e s t a m e n t C l a s s .

Sarah M ‘Donald, Croy— Marg*. M eDonald, Campbeltown Hugh Rose, Petty.

A r i t h m e t i c .James M ‘ Intosh, Culloden— Donald Grant, Croy.

M e n t a l C a l c u l a t io n s .Donald Grant and James Allan, Croy.

E n g l i s h G r a m m a r .Mary Allan Croy;

Don*. M ‘Pherson and Jessy Fraser, Culloden. W r i t i n g .

Donald Grant, James Allan, and Janet Fraser, Croy Donald M ‘ I ntosh ,^.^.^.^Culloden.

S c r ip t u r a l K n o w l e d g e .Hugh M ‘Kay, Culloden— Lewis M ‘Pherson, Daviot

John Grant, Crov.

n

’ G e o g r a p h y .Donald Fraser and Sally Williamson, Culloden.

G a e l i c .Alex. McDonald, Daviot— May M ‘ Intosh, Culloden.

L a t i n .George M ‘Donald, C roy.

R e c it a t io n s .George M ‘Donald and Janet Fraser, Croy.

As by the foregoing arrangement, a few of the smaller Books remained, it was requested that the Teachers would, from per­sonal knowledge, name such Scholars as they thought really deserving, although they failed in shewing their superiority in the Competition from bashfulness, or any other cause. There were disposed in this manner, Prizes to the following: —

Betty M*Arthur,«»»v%v%-^Croy.Charlotte Thom son,^^Petty.Catharine Grant,^^.^^Campbeltown.John Kennedy, „.«w**„,Culloden.Ann Clark Petty.

From the interest awakened in the District by the announce­ment o f the Competition, I take the liberty of suggesting, that were the intimation given the Autumn preceding, both Parents and Children would find the Winter short enough in qualifying for “ the Grand Examination of the Schools'” in Spring. Were October substituted for February, it would give a stimulus to the exertions of Teachers and Scholars.

I may also mention, that in the event of another appointment of a Competition for this District, which I trust will be soon again, the unanimous opinion o f the Teachers was, that Croy would be more central than Petty; for then all the other Schools which attended here, would find it as convenient to go to Croy; and the Parish of Cawdor would easily come within the range in addition, if not also some Schools in the Parish of Nairn.

For myself, and the others who witnessed the Competition, I beg to return the Society our thanks for the pleasure which we received by their appointment o f it here; and we will long till they renew it, by intimating a similar resolution. I am, Dear Sir, yours truly, J o h n G r a n t .

George Farquharson, Esq.Sec#. to the Celtic Society, Edinr.

22

Manse of Fortingal, 21th April 1835.D e a r S i b , — Your letters, of dates 13th February and 13th

March ult. were duly received, the latter accompanied by 32 elegant Books, furnished by your patriotic Society as Prizes for the Schools of this Parish.

I fixed upon Thursday the 16th curt, as the day for the Competition, putting it off as long as appeared convenient, in order to be as near the good weather and long days as possible, for the greater comfort of the Children, many of whom had far to travel.

This Parish is 40 miles by 30 in extent, having two Govern­ment Churches within its bounds, besides the Parish one — has Two Schools on the General Assembly’s Scheme — Two on the Establishment of the Society in Scotland for Propagating Chris­tian Knowledge, besides four Sewing Schools on the same Establishment, and several other Private Schools on the Teach­ers’ own adventure, or by agreement with the Parents of the Children attending, all o f which are in efficient operation; so that, whatever are our other local disadvantages and privations, we cannot say but that we are highly favoured with regard to Schools, and, to use the fashionable phrase of the day, that “ the Schoolmaster is abroad” among us. Accordingly, the announcement o f the Prizes of the Celtic Society excited, as was expected, the greatest interest among us.

On the day of Meeting, the following Gentlemen attended here, and were appointed a Committee for judging and awarding the Prizes, viz___

Mr. Duff, Minister o f the Parish of Kenmore ;Mr. Campbell, Minister o f the Parish of Weem ;Mr. J. M ‘Donald, Minister of the Government District of

Rannoch;Mr. D. Campbell, Government Minister, Glenlyon;Mr. A . K. Irvine, Government Minister, Foss;Mr. R. M ‘Donald, Minister of Fortingal; andMr. Menzies of Chesthill, who, as Member of your Society,

was elected Preses.The Committee, about eleven o’clock, repaired to the Church,

where a number of Ladies and Gentlemen, several Teachers from the neighbouring Parishes, and a great attendance of the Parents and Friends of the Children, and a considerable num­ber of strangers, were met.

IX. F o r t i n g a l — 10th District

The Pafochial School, conducted by Mr. Campbell, is un­doubtedly among the best that any country district can be blessed with.

All the other Schools, to do them justice, made an excellent appearance. What they principally made a figure in, was their knowledge of the Gaelic Language, and the Principles of the Christian Religion. Indeed, they acquitted themselves well generally, and to the satisfaction of all present.

The Prizes were awarded as follow :—

1st Class E n g l is h R e a d i n g .No. of

Competitors’ Names. Prize. Schools. Teachers’ Names.John Robertson l^Kinloch Rannoch^JDun. Campbell. Archibald Cameron^J^Invervar John Cameron.Christian CampbelL«J}~Kinloch Rannoch^Dun. Campbell.

4 Isabella M ‘Donald~v,~4~vFortingal M» » MwDun, Campbell.2d Class E n g l is h R e a d i n g .

Archibald M'Nab^wvl-^Fortingal ~~,~~,~Dun. Campbell. Christian Sinclair S^Kinloch Rannoch^Dun. Campbell. Jessie M ‘Dougal^^«.3«.Fortingal ~~~~~Dun. Campbell.

8 Elizabeth M ‘Pherson«4«Fortingal « „ «w « D u n . Campbell.1st Class G a e l i c R e a d i n g .

Archibald M eNab w~l~Fortingal ^ m ^ D u d . Campbell. Isobel M'Gregor ««~2~KillachonanM,^.,JDond. M ‘Leish. Christian Campbellw ^3^Kinloch Rannoch^JDun. Campbell.

12 Archibald Cameronw ^4«Jnvervar.^.»w »wWJohn Cameron.2d Class G a e l i c R e a d in g .

Christian M ‘Gregory l*J£illachonan v.«*w*Dond. M ‘Leish. John Robertson.u~~«2,~Kinloch Rannoch«Dun. Campbell. Elizabeth Lothian~%*«.3«.Invervar John Cameron.

16 Elizabeth Cameron w *4«InvervarWM.W wW John Cameron.W r i t i n g .

Archd. M'Diarmid l^Fortingal Dun. Campbell.James Campbell«~.*w ,2«Fortingal — Dun. Campbell. David Farquharson~^3~Fortingal «%M«Mw»Dun. Campbell.

20 Ewen Stewart 4~Killachonanw *w JDond. M ‘Leish.1st Class A r i t h m e t i c .

James Campbell l^vFortingal Dun. Campbell.Jean Stewart Fortingal Campbell.John Cameron .w. S^vFortingal MMW»««-~Dun. Campbell.

24 Isabella M ‘Donald « M4«.Fortingal „ MV.««D un. Campbell.

23

2 d Class A r i t h m e t i c .Na, €f

Competitors' Names. Prize. Schools. Teachers’ Names.Hugh M ‘Dougal Fortingal „Dun. Campbell.

26 John Robertson^«^«.2^Fortingal Dun. Campbell.C h r i s t i a n K n o w l e d g e .

Isabella M 4Donald,»*J.,»%Fortingal ,wwvv»»vDun. Campbell.John Sinclair*^*,,____ S^Kinloch Rannoch~,Dun. Campbell.

29 Christian M 4G regor»w*3„,Killachonan « w w Dond. M'Leish.R e c i t a t i o n .

Christian Scott^^.^^.^1 or tin gal „ « « « « D u n . Campbell.31 Catharine Campbell*w 2„.Fortingal « « « « « D u n . Campbell.

M a t h e m a t i c s .32 Archd. M'Diarmid «~JL.«Fortingal ^,^^^-^.Dun. Campbell.

Thus were the 32 Prizes disposed of. No Prizes were left for Book-keeping, Geography, and English Grammar, although Mr. Campbell the Parochial Schoolmaster offered to bring for­ward a number of Competitors for each of these branches.

I cannot hesitate for a moment to express my sincerest gra­titude to you, and to the patriotic Society of the Celts, for their handsome donation given for the cause of Education in this quarter.

The object which the Society has in view is undoubtedly cal­culated to do a great deal of good, by stimulating both the Teachers and Scholars to a noble emulation; and this object is peculiarly suited to such a Parish as this, as it is the means of bringing the different Schools on so many establishments in contact with each other, and as it calls forth, not only the ex­ertion and energy of the Teachers, but that of their respective Ministers.

May I beg to be allowed again to convey my thanks to the Society for their kindness in favouring this wide and extensive Parish, now for the second time, with their valuable Prizes for stimulating our exertions in the good cause and delightful task o f rearing the tender thought, and “ teaching the young idea how to shoot,” and thereby exalting the nature o f man. I am, Dear Sir, yours sincerely,

R o b e r t M a c d o n a l d ,Minister o f Fortingal.

George Farquharson, Esq. TV. S.Secy, to the Celtic Society, Edinr.

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Kilbride Manse, 18^ March 1835.S ir , — The Competition for the Prizes voted by the Celtic

Society for the Schools in this parish took place yesterday.The Examination, which occupied seven hours, was interest­

ing in the extreme. Though the day was far from favourable, such was the anxiety of all classes to be present, that most of the Ladies and Gentlemen of the parish, and a large proportion o f the heads of families and others, assembled at an early hour, and sat patiently the whole day, witnessing the eager exertions o f the young Competitors for the Prizes. These amounted to about 100, constituting the elite o f nearly 400 Scholars, who were taught in the Six Schools of this parish in the course of last winter. I arrange the Schools in the order of their nu­merical strength as follows, placing the largest first: —Whitingbay School, taught by J. MfPherson, Assembly Scheme.

David Hodge, Private.Alex.M'Kenzie, Parochial.Robert Gray, do.Arch. Malcom, Private.•fkjr t> (Patronized byMary Brown, -c , T j - J ’ (several Ladies.

After the meeting was constituted by prayer, and the regu­lations of the Celtic Society explained, Judges were appointed by the votes o f the several Teachers o f the parish, when the choice fell upon John Fullarton, Esq. of Kilmichael, Dr. An­drew Stoddart, Dr. Charles Cook, Mr. Robert Stoddart, Len­nox, Mr. Jameson, Brodick, and the Ministers of the parish, who availed themselves of the assistance of three respectable Teachers from the parish of Kilmorie, who were present. The work of the Judges was by no means an easy one, as so many o f the Scholars were very nearly upon a par in point o f profi­ciency. At length the Prizes were unanimously adjudged as follows: —-

For E n g l is h R e a d i n g .1. To Mary Shaw, in Miss Brown’s School.

X . K ilb r id e (A rra n ) — 1 %th District.

Lamlash do. do.Lamlash do. do.Brodick do. do.Corrie do. do.Brodick (for Girls) do.

2. SJ Helen Hendry, « do. do.3. »9 Margaret Shaw, „ ..Whitingbay do.4. 55 Elizh. M ‘Kenzie,v do. do.5. 55 Donald McKenzie, do. do.6. 55 Mary Inglis,

Janet Shaw,«.«wkMiss Brown’s do.

7. 55 „Whitingbay do.8. 55 Win. M ‘Kelvie>w~Corrie do.

26

9. T o Neil M'Masterj-v^Mr. Gray’s School.10. ,, Agnes Stoddart, ^.Miss Brown’s do.11. ,, Elizabeth Millar,^Mr. Hodge’s do.12. „ Mary M 'Bride^^M r. M*Kenzie’s do.

For G a e l ic R e a d i n g .1. T o Alex. Fullarton, in Mr. Gray’s School,% Si Archd. M ‘Millan— ,.Whitingbay do.3. ii Margaret Shaw, »v. do. do.4. Si John Hamilton, do. do.5. if Jean M ‘Kelvie, v.v» do. do.6. ii Wm. M ‘Kelvie, Corrie do.

For A r i t h m e t i c .1. T o John Hamilton, attending Whitirjgbay School.2. ,, Archibald M ‘Millan~w^^ do. do.3. ,, John Nicol, do. do.4. „ Isabella Cuthbertson,«.^«,Mr. Hodge’s do.5. ,, Dugald Wright do. do.6. „ John Robertson, do. do.

For P e n m a n s h i p .1. T o Margaret Shaw, attending Whitingbay School.% „ Mary M ‘Kelvie do. do.3. „ Dugald Wright, »^ „«v w .M r. Hodge’s do.4. ,, John M ‘Bride, do. do.5. „ James Robertson, __ _ do. do.6. ,, Catharine Stewart, Mr. M'Kenzie’s do.7. „ Daniel M ‘Kenzie, Whitingbay do.8. „ Jean M ‘Kelvie, do. do.

For E n g l i s h G r a m m a r .1. T o Donald M ‘Kenzie, attending Whitingbay School.2. ,, Margaret Shaw,^*^.««^w ^ do. do.3. ,, George D o u g l a s , d o . do.

From some difficulties attending the adjudication of the Prizes on Scriptural Knowledge, it was ultimately arranged that a Prize should be given to one Scholar from each of the Schools, when the following were named for them :—

Corrie School,^^^^^vRobert Hamilton.Mr. M ^enzie’s^^-^wJanet Mathie.Mr. Hodge’s, Euphemia M ‘Bride.Miss Brown’s, „ « « « « M a r y Sinclair.Mr. Gray’s ____ ___^Margaret Gray.Whitingbay,WVW.VI.,.W Mary M'Kelvie.

27

Comparisons ars always invidious, more especially in a case like the present, where there was so much to approve of in ge­neral appearance of the Candidates from all the Schools. It is, however, but justice to state the general admiration excited by the ease, the elegance, and correct emphasis with which Miss Brown’s Pupils read English, and the extensive scriptural knowledge which they displayed; while the beautiful penman­ship and the arithmetical proficiency of the Whitingbay Scho­lars deservedly attracted notice.

T o a Society which has it for a main object to promote the use of the Highland Dress, it cannot but be gratifying to state, that the greater number of Miss Brown’s pupils, with their spirited instructress at their head, attended the Examination neatly dressed in the Tartan of the 42d Highlanders. I would therefore venture to hint, that as there is none of the other sex in this parish who can advance a claim for the Honorary Prize of the Society, the Committee would for once sacrifice their rules to gallantry, and adjudge the Prize to Miss Brown. She richly deserves the compliment, as an enthusiastic Highlander. Several of her Pupils, who are scarcely out of the nursery, read with considerable fluency Dr. M ‘Leod’s Gaelic Collection; and by the time that they have reached the age of those who have carried the Gaelic Prizes, I have no doubt but they will be able, under Miss Brown’s auspices, to peruse Ossian in the original, and grapple, with Beurluin Chlann Raonuill, justly considered the Pons Asinorum o f Gaelic Scholars.

As there were several Children, who, though they could not look for any of the Prizes of the Society, yet made a most re­spectable figure, and taking their extreme youth and rapid proficiency into account, might be considered as more deserving than several who were better Scholars, the Gentlemen attend­ing the Examination agreed to give a number of extra Prizes at their own expense. Such indeed was the interest which the whole Examination excited, that I cherish the sanguine hope of having in future years an annual Examination, upon the plan of those of the Celtic Society, patronized and supported by all the more respectable of the Parishioners of Kilbride; so that the seed sown by the Society will thus, in all probability, produce an hundred-fold; and as similar results have already followed its highly patriotic exertions in other places, it would be super­fluous to add one syllable more in its commendation. Long may it flourish, to give a salutary impulse to youthful talent in the Highlands, and to make the sons of the mountain as en­

28

lightened, as all acknowledge them to be brave. Believe me, Sir, ydur very obedient servant, A l l a n M ‘N a u g h t o n .

Goerge Farquharson, Esq.Secv. to the Celtic Society, Edinr.

Note.—'In consequence of the above recommendation, the Celtic Society have presented to Miss Brown a handsomely bound copy of Dr. M 'Leod and Dr. Dewar’s Gaelic Dictionary, with a suitable inscription.

STATIONS f o r DISTRIBUTION o f PRIZES in 1836.

D is t r ic t 1. T A R B E T .2. A R D C H A T T A N .3. TO RO SAY.4. A R IS A IG .5. N O RTH U IST.6. STO R N O W A Y.7. LO CH ALSH .8. BRORA.9. INVERGORDON.

10. KINGUSSIE.11. GRAN TON.12. D U LL.13. CRIEFF.14. G LEN D AR U EL.

29

OFFICE-BEARERS OF THE SOCIETY, J a n u a r y 1836.

P r e sid e n t .

H is G r a c e th e D u k e o f G o r d o n .

Vic e -P r e sid e n ts .

Sir N e i l M e n z ie s o f Castle M e n z ie s , Bart.H o r a t io R oss of Rossie, Esq.R. M a c d o n a l d S e t o n o f Staffa, Esq.G e n e b a l C a m p b e l l o f Lochnell.J a m e s F a r q u h a r s o n o f Invercauld, Esq Sir R o b e r t D ic k o f Tullymet, Bart.D o n a l d C a m p b e l l of Dunstaffnage, Esq.H u g h M 'L e a n of Coll, Esq.

Co m m it t e e of M a n a g e m e n t .

J a m e s M ‘ D o n a l d , Esq. Younger o f Dalness.Dr. J o h n M a c k in t o s h .A l e x . S c o t t , Esq. o f Trinity, W . S.A l e x . S t u a r t , Esq. ^C a p t a i n W i l l i a m M a c k e n z i e .C a p t a i n B a r c l a y , R. N.J o h n T a w s e , Esq. Secretary to the Society for Pro­

pagating Christian Knowledge.A n d r e w F r a s e r , Esq. W . S.M u r . R o b e r t s o n , Esq. Edinburgh.D u n c a n S t e v e n s o n , Esq. E d in b u r g h . L i e u t . -C o l o n e l H a r v e y o f C a stle S em p le , K. H. P a t r i c k F o r b e s of S t. C ath erin es , Esq.J a m e s L o g a n , Esq. Edinburgh.J a m e s R o s e , Esq. W . S.

30L a c h l a n M ‘ L a c h l a n , Esq. Edinburgh.W i l l i a m M a r s h a l l , Esq. W . S.R o b e r t D o w n ie o f Appin, Esq.W i l l i a m M ‘ I n t o s h o f G e d d e s , E s q .M a j o r J o h n G o r d o n .R o b e r t . R o y , Esq. W . S.J a m e s G i l l e s p i e G r a h a m , Esq. o f O rch ill. C a p t a i n M a c a n o f L u r g y v a l la n .A l e x . M a c d o n a l d , Esq. Edinburgh. L i e u t e n a n t - C o l o n e l M 'B e a n .T h o m a s M a c k e n z i e of Applecross, Esq.J ohn M ‘C r a e , E sq. W . S.

T h e R e v . R o b e r t A n d e r s o n , D. D. Chaplain. J o s e p h G o r d o n , Esq. W . S. Treasurer.G eo . F a r q u h a r s o n , Esq. W . S. Secretary. A r c h i b a l d H o r n e , Esq. Accountant.

W i l l i a m M a c k a y , Piper.

29

OFFICE-BEARERS OF THE SOCIETY, Ja n u a r y 1836.

P r e sid e n t .

H is G e a c e th e D u k e o f G o r d o n .

Vic e -P r e sid e n ts .

Sir N e i l M e n z ie s o f Castle Menzies, Bart.H o e a t io R oss of Rossie, Esq.R. M a c d o n a l d S e x o n o f Staffa, Esq.G e n e r a l C a m p b e l l o f L o c h n e ll .J a m e s F a r <iu h a r s o n o f In v e r c a u ld , Esq Sir R o b e r t D ic k o f T u l ly m e t , B a rt.D o n a l d C a m p b e l l o f Dunstaffnage, Esq.H u g h M ‘ L e a n of Coll, Esq.

Co m m it t e e of M a n a g e m e n t .

J ames M ‘D onald , Esq. Y ounger o f Dalness.Dr. J o h n M a c k in t o s h .A l e x . S c o t t , Esq. of Trinity, W . S.A l e x . S t u a e t , Esq. ;C a p t a i n W i l l i a m M a c k e n z i e .C a p t a i n B a e c l a y , R. N.J o h n T a w s e , Esq. Secretary to the Society for Pro­

pagating Christian Knowledge.A n d r e w F r a s e r , Esq. W . S.M u r . R o b e r t s o n , Esq. Edinburgh.D u n c a n S t e v e n s o n , Esq. Edinburgh. L i e u t . -C o l o n e l H a r v e y of Castle Semple, K. H. P a t r i c k F o r b e s of St. Catherines, Esq.J a m e s L ò g a n , Esq. Edinburgh.J a m e s R o s e , Esq. W . S.

L a c h l a n M 'L a c h l a n , Esq. Edinburgh.W i l l i a m M a r s h a l l , Esq. W . S.R o b e r t D o w n ie o f A p p in , Esq.W i l l i a m M ‘I ntosh o f Geddes, Esq.M a j o r J o h n G o r d o n .R o b e r t R o y , Esq. W . S.J a m e s G i l l e s p i e G r a h a m , Esq. of Orchill. C a p t a i n M a c a n of Lurgyvallan.A l e x . M a c d o n a l d , Esq. Edinburgh. L i e u t .e n a n t - C o l o n e l M ‘ B e a n .T h o m a s M a c k e n z i e of Applecross, Esq.J o h n M ‘ C r a e , Esq. W . S.

The Rev. R o b e r t A n d e r s o n , D. D. Chaplain. J o s e p h G o r d o n , Esq. W . S. Treasurer.G e o . F a r q u h a r s o n , Esq. W . S. Secretary. A r c h i b a l d H o r n e , Esq. Accountant.

W i l l i a m M a c k a y , Piper.

so

X

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