Rob Roy — Complete

by Walter Scott

  Note A.--The Grey Stone of MacGregor.

  I have been informed that, at no very remote period, it was proposed totake this large stone, which marks the grave of Dugald Ciar Mhor, andconvert it to the purpose of the lintel of a window, the threshold of adoor, or some such mean use. A man of the clan MacGregor, who wassomewhat deranged, took fire at this insult; and when the workmen came toremove the stone, planted himself upon it, with a broad axe in his hand,swearing he would dash out the brains of any one who should disturb themonument. Athletic in person, and insane enough to be totally regardlessof consequences, it was thought best to give way to his humour; and thepoor madman kept sentinel on the stone day and night, till the proposalof removing it was entirely dropped.