The
axe, which was also much used by the natives of Ireland, is supposed to
have been introduced into both countries from Scandinavia.
NOTE 15
An adventure very similar to what is here stated actually befell the late
Mr. Abercromby of Tullibody, grandfather of the present Lord Abercromby,
and father of the celebrated Sir Ralph. When this gentleman, who lived to
a very advanced period of life, first settled in Stirlingshire, his
cattle were repeatedly driven off by the celebrated Rob Roy, or some of
his gang; and at length he was obliged, after obtaining a proper
safe-conduct, to make the cateran such a visit as that of Waverley to
Bean Lean in the text. Rob received him with much courtesy, and made many
apologies for the accident, which must have happened, he said, through
some mistake. Mr. Abercromby was regaled with collops from two of his own
cattle, which were hung up by the heels in the cavern, and was dismissed
in perfect safety, after having agreed to pay in future a small sum of
black-mail, in consideration of which Rob Roy not only undertook to
forbear his herds in future, but to replace any that should be stolen
from him by other freebooters.
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