"A fine morning early, but it began to rain when we went out walking at ½ p. 10, & then poured without ceasing. Most fortunately it cleared at luncheon time, & the sun shone brightly for the ceremony of laying the Foundation Stone of the new house. Mama & her whole party, arrived from Abergeldie at a little before 3. We walked round to the spot, followed by the whole Housenold & preceded by McKay, playing the Pipes. We took up our places at the south side of the stone, where Mr Anderson stood, & offered up an appropriate Prayer & gave the Blessing, I spread the mortar & the stone was lowered, when I struck it with the mallet & declared it well & truly laid. I also poured corn oil & wine upon the corner coppice, & then we left. The only drawback was the high wind, else the arrangements were excellent, & everything went off "à souhait". The workmen & people all gave a cheer when the ceremony was concluded. In about ¼ of an hour's time we went to see the people at their dinner. - Afterwards we walked over Craig Gowan, to give Albert the chance of getting some Black Game, but we saw nothing. Come back along the Dee. - We dressed early & went for 20 m. before dinner, to see the people dancing in the Ball Room, which they did with great spirit. - Mama & all those at Abergeldie, dined here."
Citation:
RA VIC/MAIN/QVJ (W) 28 September 1853 (PRINCESS BEATRICE'S COPIES) retrieved 28 September 2024