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SOME BRIEF PARTICULARS 
 
 REGARDING 
 
 THE ARRIYAL 
 
 OF 
 
 THE MARQUIS OF DOUGLAS 
 
 AND HIS ILLUSTEIOUS BEIDE, 
 
 HER HIGHNESS THE PRINCESS MARIE OF BADEN, 
 
 AT HAMILTON PALACE, 
 
 ON THUllSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 1843. 
 
 GLASGOW; 
 
 PRINTED BY JAMES M‘NAB, CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICE. 
 
 1843 . 
 

 
 # 
 
 
 
 ^iJLr. « 
 
 
 
As the events connected with the arrival, at Hamilton Palace, of the Marquis of Douglas and the 
 Princess Marie of Baden, have become matter of public interest, from the magnificence of the 
 preparations, and the splendid manner in which every thing went off on that memorable occasion, it 
 has been deemed proper, at the solicitation of many sincere friends of the House of Hamilton, who 
 look back on the fairy scene with feelings of delightful recollection, to select from the Public Journals 
 of the day, (of all shades of politics,) and place in an enduring form, the annexed notices of the never- 
 to-be-forgotten proceedings. 
 
 As a writer in one of the newspapers, who was well qualified to judge, has said : — “ Such a day 
 has never occurred in the annals of the Scottish nobility, nor perhaps in those of Scottish royalty. 
 Here was no feud to disturb, no wrongs to redress, no religious disputes to alloy ; but all was peace, 
 concord, happiness, and joy, and a great moral lesson taught to mankind, that where justice is done, 
 equity shown, and paternal care reduced to practice, in the manner that these things have been per- 
 formed by the noble house of Hamilton, kindness and attachment will be evinced by both rich and 
 poor to those of the highest rank that are placed by Providence over them, and a bond of union betwixt 
 them cemented which cannot be broken. 
 
 “ The example here instanced, of fifty thousand people, of all ranks, congregated together to 
 express their feelings of respect and attachment to a venerated nobleman and his worthy son and heir, 
 and to the illustrious and excellent Lady with whom the latter is now united, has exhibited one of the 
 noblest features of the human character.” 
 

 
 
ARKI V AL 
 
 OF 
 
 THE MAKQUIS AO MARCHIONESS OF DOUGLAS 
 
 AT 
 
 HAMILTON PALACE. 
 
 Since the marriage of the Marquis of Douglas and Clydesdale, (the heir to the extended line of 
 the House of Hamilton,) the inhabitants of a wide district of country have looked forward with feelings 
 of no ordinary interest to his Lordship’s arrival at the home of his fathers, accompanied by his Illustrious 
 Bride, the Princess Marie of Baden. The announcement, therefore, that the distinguished pair would 
 arrive on Thursday, the 14th September, was received with the liveliest satisfaction, and the news spread 
 as if carried by the “ Fiery Cross” of other days. Independently of the feelings of attachment and 
 esteem with which the House of Hamilton is regarded throughout the west of Scotland for its own 
 actions of beneficence and kindly sway, which are daily experienced by thousands, there were associa- 
 tions called up by the occasion which carried the mind back to stirring times long since passed away, 
 and which are dear to the remembrance of the Scottish people. Considering, therefore, that the House 
 of Hamilton was so intimately mixed up in the most important events of our national history, it could 
 not be matter of indifierence that the late union was formed, which seems destined to carry the name to 
 future posterity. In glancing over the history of the family, it was not forgotten that its principal 
 founder was one of the knights who “ kept the King’s person” at the battle of Bannockburn, and who 
 faithfully continued with the Bruce till his death, and then attended his burial at Dunfermline. It was 
 not forgotten that, grade by grade, they had advanced to the highest honours and employments of the 
 State, and became closely allied to the blood royal of the Stuarts, by the marriage of James, the Second 
 Lord Hamilton, to the Princess Mary, sister of King James the III. ; for it is well known that, next to 
 the beautiful and unfortunate Mary, Queen of Scots, James, the Second Earl, was heir to the crown, 
 and his rights to the eventual succession were confirmed by an Act of the three estates of the Scottish 
 Parliament, the original of which is extant in the charter room at Hamilton Palace, and a duplicate 
 deposited in the Register House at Edinburgh, which has been published by Mr. Thomson, in his 
 Collection of Scottish Acts of Parliament. Moreover, since the old Scottish Kings held Court, and 
 dated decrees from Cadzow Castle, the lands they now hold have aU along remained in possession of the 
 Hamiltons. Much respect, therefore, has, both locally and nationally, attached to the Peerage, as 
 being the premier one in Scotland; and both from the good deeds of the family itself, and from the 
 circumstance that, failing the Brunswick line, it is the next Protestant branch of the Royal Family in 
 succession to the crown of Scotland, the title has always carried with it much of the love and veneration 
 of the country. ' 
 
 B 
 
6 
 
 After glancing at these circumstances, it is scarcely necessary to say that the marriage of the only 
 son of the present respected Peer with the Princess Marie, became, in this part of the country, an event 
 of the deepest interest and the warmest solicitude; and it was resolved, as it were with one mind, to 
 give to the illustrious lady a truly Scottish welcome, and heartily enlist her feelings in favour of the 
 land of her adoption. 
 
 As a few months have now elapsed since these auspicious nuptials were celebrated, and all the 
 attendant circumstances may not be remembered, we give the following as the official account of the 
 ceremonial : — 
 
 The marriage of the Marquis of Douglas and her Highness the Princess Marie of Baden, daughter 
 of his Royal Highness, Charles, late Grand Duke of Baden, took place at Manheim, on Thursday, the 
 23d February, 1843. At half-past six o’clock in the evening, their Royal Highnesses, the Grand Duke 
 and Duchess of Baden, the Grand Duchess-Dowager, Stephanie of Baden, the Grand Duke of Hesse 
 Darmstadt, the Hereditary Duke and Duchess of Hesse Darmstadt, and their Highnesses the Prince 
 Emile of Darmstadt, the Duke Bernard of Saxe Weimer, and the Duchess Ida, the Hereditary Prince 
 and Princess of Hohenzollern Sigmarengen, the Princess Clotilde of Hohenlohe, the Duke and Duchess 
 of Hamilton, the Earl of Dunmore, (nephew of the Duke,) and the Hon. Henry Wellesley, her Bri- 
 tannic Majesty’s Charge d’ Affairs, accredited to the Court of Baden, and Mr. Sheridan, Minister at 
 Carlshrue, and numerous other distinguished persons, assembled in the state apartments of her Royal 
 Highness the Grand Duchess Stephanie, whence they walked in procession through the long gallery 
 of the palace to the Chapel Royal, which was splendidly illuminated for the occasion, the pillars being 
 surrounded by wreaths of myrtle, interwoven with lamps, and a cross of yellow lights of great brilliancy 
 placed above the altar. The marriage ceremony was there celebrated, according to the Lutheran form, 
 by the Court Chaplain, a salute of artillery announcing its completion, after which, the cortege returned 
 in the same order to the state apartments, from whence the Royal Personages and the members of the 
 Duke of Hamilton’s family and his friends, proceeded to the apartments of the Honourable Henry 
 AV ellesley, in the palace, where the marriage service, according to the form of the Church of England, 
 was performed by the Rev. Henry Elliot Graham, in the presence of his Excellency, as Representative of 
 her Britannic Majesty, all the other great Personages being also present. At nine o’clock, the illustrious 
 company proceeded to the Salle des Chevaliers, an apartment in the palace of immense size, brilliantly 
 illuminated, where a magnificent banquet had been prepared for the Royal and other guests, to the 
 number of two hundred and upwards, at which the health of the Bride and Bridegroom, proposed by 
 his Royal Highness the Grand Duke of Baden, was drank by the distinguished party, soon after which, 
 the happy couple having returned to the apartments of her Royal Highness, the Grand Duchess 
 Stephanie, and exchanged congratulations with their illustrious relatives, retired, and shortly afterwards 
 left Manheim for Schwetzinger, the country palace of the Grand Duke. The town was in the evening 
 brilliantly illuminated, producing a singularly striking efiect from the rectangular position of the streets, 
 and the whole population added to the enjoyment of the scene by every demonstration of public rejoic- 
 ing. By this marriage the family of Hamilton, already allied to the crowns of England and Scotland, 
 becomes intimately connected with many of the reigning Sovereigns of Europe. 
 
 Since their nuptials, the noble pair have spent the most of the time in Italy and other parts of the 
 Continent, returning only recently to England. 
 
7 
 
 After spending a brief period in the south, they resolved to pay the visit which has now become the 
 object of so much interest ; and leaving London on Saturday the 9th September, 1843, they travelled 
 northward by easy stages, reaching Carlisle on the evening of Tuesday last. After passing the night 
 there, they started on Wednesday morning to complete the last stage but one of their journey. The 
 inhabitants of the district adjacent to the confines of the county of Lanark, without distinction of politics, 
 not to be behind their lowland neighbours in the spirit and expression of their congratulations on the 
 arrival of the noble Marquis and his illustrious consort, had, with the co-operation of Sir Edward Cole- 
 broke, Bart., G. V. Irving, Esq. of Newton, and Mr. Borron of Leadhills, and others, been for some days 
 busily preparing for so joyful an occasion. Early upon the morning of Wednesday, triumphal arches 
 were erected at Crawford and Newton, composed of evergreens entwined with blooming heather, and 
 the choicest flowers, presenting, in those wild alpine regions, a most novel, gay, and tasteful appear- 
 ance. The whole population of the surrounding districts seemed collected en masse, each face wearing 
 a gladsome smile of welcome. Among others, a band of upwards of 150 of the Leadhills miners, headed 
 by their master, Mr. Borron, preceded by a splendid band of instrumental music, and accompanied by 
 their wives and sweethearts, all uniformly dressed in their holiday attire, attracted much attention, 
 having taken up a position at Crawford in fine military order and array, eagerly awaiting the expected 
 arrival. A band of horsemen, headed by Mr. G. V. Irving, proceeded to Racecleuch, the county march, 
 and on the arrival of the illustrious pair, after tendering their respectful congratulations, formed them- 
 selves into a guard of honour around the carriages, accompanying them to Crawford station, where 
 they were received with every demonstration of joy by the assembly, and while fresh horses were 
 being attached, addresses of congratulation were tendered, expressive of every kind wish for the happi- 
 ness and welfare of the noble Marquis and his beauteous bride, accompanied with the presentation 
 of a beautiful basket of flowering heather and hill flowers, peculiar to the district, and of some specimens 
 of fine and native virgin gold produced at Leadhills, which were most graciously accepted. The assembled 
 multitude having now formed in procession, accompanied the carriages some distance on the road to 
 Douglas Mill, the band playing some of the liveliest national airs, awakening many an echo of the neigh- 
 bouring hills. Night having closed in, the procession halted and respectfully bade adieu, returning to 
 their mountain homes, delighted with the events of the day ; and every heart and every mouth loud in 
 the praise of the kind affability and condescension of the noble and distinguished objects of their regard. 
 
 The preparations made by the Duke to give a Scottish welcome home to the JIarquis and his bride 
 were of the most complete and comprehensive description. Within the Palace and without, artificers 
 had for weeks been busy, under the tasteful superintendence of his Grace, in ])reparing for the reception 
 of the noble pair. The palace was put in the most perfect order, and the principal suites of apartments 
 — the library, drawing-room, dining-room, picture gallery, <fec., were so gorgeous in their decorations, 
 that even the Princess Marie, accustomed as she has been to the splendours of a palace, could not fail, 
 we think, to be struck with their princely magnificence. The grounds, so extensive and so picturesque, 
 with their fine glades and vistas, were never seen to better advantage. 
 
 On W ednesday evening, matters were beginning to assume a most bustling and imposing aspect at 
 the town of Hamilton, the head quarters of all these festive proceedings. Parties of strangers continued 
 to arrive from various districts, by coach, private vehicle, and on horseback, and extensive though the 
 
8 
 
 accommodation aflforded by the inns may be on ordinary occasions, on this important one it was found 
 quite insufficient, and numerous parties were billetted on private families in the town, while many of 
 the residents in the near neighbourhood readily extended their hospitality to those who had travelled 
 far to show their respect to the heir of the Ducal house. Long after “ day its sultry fires had wasted,” 
 the sound of the horses’ hoofs announced that the arrivals still continued, and by midnight, Hamilton 
 contained a mighty population beyond its own. We must not omit to mention, that by orders of the 
 Duke of Hamilton, every attention was paid to the hospitable entertainment of the tenantry from a 
 distance, who arrived in Hamilton on Wednesday night. The Magistrates were not lax in showing their 
 sentiments of respect and attachment ; several meetings were held to arrange the order of procedure, and 
 placards were issued enjoining the most orderly conduct on the part of the inhabitants, as the credit and 
 fair fame of the town was mixed up in the matter. Sooth to say there was little need for caution on 
 this score, for one and all seemed to consider themselves personally interested in giving to the Marquis 
 and Marchioness a reception which would unequivocally convey the sentiments of the district. Medals, 
 too, had been struck in honour of the occasion, and rhymsters were understood to be at work upon — 
 
 “ Song, sonnet, and rustical roundelay,” 
 
 which, when gathered together into a poetic wreath, may perpetuate the remembrance of this splendid 
 gala long after the actors in it have passed away. 
 
 Thursday morning opened most auspiciously. Although the weather has of late been beautiful, the 
 days have generally been ushered in by a dense haze, which did not clear away till the forenoon was 
 somewhat advanced. Yesterday, however, was a glorious exception; for the sky Was clear and bright 
 from the earliest dawn, and when so much depended on favouring weather, but rarely has an extensive 
 district of the country looked with more gratitude on the placid aspect of the sky. From the earliest 
 hour horsemen were seen making their way o’er hill and dale, to their respective points of rendezvous, 
 there to range themselves under their parish banner. And nothing, indeed, could be more symptomatic 
 of the enthusiasm which this event called forth, than the fact that the farmers from entire districts were 
 willing and happy to abandon for one day their labours at the most important period of all the year. 
 Indeed, to one unacquainted with the causes which called it forth, the bustling and excited appearance 
 of the inhabitants throughout Clydesdale yesterday morning, must have been matter of extreme wonder- 
 ment, especially in these piping times of peace and civilization, when the brawn and sinew and manly 
 hearts of a district are no longer called to the fray or the fight at the bidding of their chief. Each 
 horseman wore in hat or breast a distinctive fioral badge, showing the parish to which he belonged, 
 some consisting of holly, bay, or laurel, some of heather, and some of the berries of the rowan tree, and, 
 headed by their respective leaders and standard-bearers, the various detachments presented a most 
 animated and picturesque appearance. In the town of Hamilton itself, every thing wore the appearance 
 of a jubilee, and the exciting feeling of anticipation became so intense, that, to use the words of one of 
 the inhabitants, “ the town was quite beside itself.” The lapse of every few minutes brought an acces- 
 sion of visitors on their way to join or witness the procession; bands of music perambulated the streets; 
 and there were gatherings and musterings of the diSerent lodges, societies, and trades, in every quarter. 
 We need not say that the arm of labour was entirely suspended throughout this district of country; 
 every thing was made secondary to the universal gaudeamus, and the entire population, it may be said, 
 
9 
 
 or at least all who were not too young or too old, turned out to take up their position on some promi- 
 nent spot along the beautiful line of route, to witness the procession to the best advantage. And in 
 doing so many thousands of both the town and country people evinced for hours an endurance worthy 
 of all praise, for the sun blazed on their heads with almost tropical warmth and splendour. 
 
 On the road from Milton of Lesmahagow to Hamilton, and at the Palace, there was either mar- 
 shalled in the procession or assembled as spectators a mighty multitude, the flower of Clydesdale, con- 
 sisting of from 40,000 to 50,000 bold, athletic, powerful men, and beautiful women, the descendants of the 
 various warlike races of aboriginal W elsh or Strath-Clyde Britons, — of Gaelic Scots, — of Gallowegians, 
 — Anglo-Saxons, — and Anglo Normans, those tribes who anciently held Clydesdale successively under 
 their sway, now mingled in kindred blood, and become a peaceful, moral, intelligent, and industrious 
 people ; yet in whose breasts still slumbers the fiery courage of their brave ancestry, ready to be rekindled 
 in support of the cause of their sovereign, their rights and liberties, and the glory of their country. 
 
 A little after nine o'clock the Marquis and his Bride left Douglas Mill, where they had rested for 
 the night, escorted by a detachment of the Yeomanry Cavalry, under the command of Captain Lock- 
 hart, M.P., and a number of the mounted tenantry, and followed, it may be truly said, by the blessings 
 and best wishes of the people who inhabit that district of Lanarkshire. At Milton Inn, a beautiful 
 triumphal arch was erected, with the motto finely formed in flowers — of “ W elcome Home,” surmounted 
 by a gorgeous Scotch thistle. Here the cortege received its first grand accession, from the horsemen 
 of Lesmahagow and surrounding districts, who had rendezvoused there at nine o’clock, and the following 
 address was read by Captain Mossman of Auchtyfardle : — 
 
 “ To the Most Nolle the Marquis of Douglas and Clydesdale, and her Highness 
 Princess Marie of Baden, 
 
 “ My Lord, — In the name of the vassals and tenants residing in the barony of Lesmahagow, and 
 here assembled, I beg respectfully to congratulate your Lordship on your arrival at this, the southern 
 extremity of the Scottish domains of your illustrious house. W e have met here this day not merely for 
 the purpose of expressing our heartfelt joy, and exhibiting that dutiful respect which we owe and feel 
 toward your Lordship’s person, as the hope of the noble house of Hamilton, but we would more 
 especially express our unmingled gratification at the highly interesting circumstances in which your 
 Lordship has now, for the first time, appeared among us. 
 
 “ We eagerly embrace the opportunity which is now presented, of warmly congratulating your Lord - 
 ship upon the honourable connection which you have recently formed with the illustrious house of Baden, 
 in the person of that Princess, the fame of whose virtues and high accomplishments has already preceded 
 her to Scotland, whom we have now the honour of welcoming on her arrival at your paternal domains. 
 
 “ In these circumstances, we would now express a more heartfelt and earnest congratulation, 
 inasmuch as they augur well for the future fate and fortune of the house of Hamilton, and hold out the 
 happy prospect, in the providence of God, of a long line of descendants to sustain and prolong the dignity 
 of your illustrious house. 
 
10 
 
 “It would be superfluous to speak of nobility and ancestral honours to one in whose veins flows 
 the blood of the Hamiltons and Douglasses. It would be impossible, however willing we might be on 
 this occasion, to enumerate and enlarge upon those high and exalted qualities which have distinguished 
 so many of your noble ancestors, and embalmed their memory in the hearts of the people of Scotland. 
 
 “ In them, and in your noble father, the tenant has ever found indulgent and attentive landlords ; 
 among them this and other parishes, as well as the institutions of our country, have found munificent 
 benefactors and liberal patrons ; among them our country has found able, resolute, and consistent advo- 
 cates of civil and religious liberty. 
 
 “ But to these topics, time permits us only to make a passing allusion, and we have referred to 
 them on this occasion, more for the purpose of expressing our confidence, that in your Lordship will 
 be combined all the eminent qualities which we know were exhibited by so many of your forefathers, 
 and that you will transmit your name to posterity with additional lustre and accumulated honours, than 
 for the purpose of pronouncing an eulogium upon those to whom, however willing we might be, we 
 would be unable to do justice. 
 
 “ In conclusion, my Lord, allow us to express the hope that that auspicious event which united 
 your house to that of so illustrious a Princess, and which we are met this day to celebrate, will contri- 
 bute largely to your own personal happiness, as well as to the prosperity of the noble house of Hamilton. 
 
 “May it please your Highness, — We would also approach your Highness on this occasion with 
 feelings of peculiar respect. We rejoice that the Noble Marquis has found one so well fitted to promote 
 his happiness, — we rejoice that your Highness has found one so equally well fitted to reciprocate those 
 aflfections which form the basis of true happiness. 
 
 “We beg to congratulate your Highness upon the alliance which you have formed with the noble 
 house of tiamilton. That house, we need not inform your Plighness, stands pre-eminent in the king- 
 dom of Scotland — and before the crown of this kingdom was united to England in the person of James 
 VL, it claimed a presumptive title to the Scottish throne. 
 
 “ Still less do we need to inform your Highness, that not merely in point of external rank has that 
 house maintained its ascendancy, but still more in statesmanlike ability and true patriotism they hold 
 an equally pre-eminent position. 
 
 “We cannot, therefore, refrain from congratulating your Highness on your connection with a house 
 so exalted in rank and fame. And allow us to express our earnest hope and desire, that through it un- 
 numbered blessings may accrue to your Highness, to your noble husband, and to the people of Scotland. 
 
 “ And we pray that Almighty God may long spare and preserve your Highness in health and 
 strength, to enjoy all the blessings and happiness of this life, until after a long, a useful, and a happy 
 life, he shall take you unto Himself.” 
 
11 
 
 To which the Marquis made a suitable reply. 
 
 The advent of the carriage was received with the heartiest plaudits, and the reception which was 
 given by this, the first large detachment of the Duke’s tenantry, must have given an earnest to the mind 
 of the young Marchioness of the enthusiastic spectacle which was to follow. Shortly after the proces- 
 sion was increased by the tenantry of Dalserf, Avondale, and Stonehouse, and the main body of Yeo- 
 manry Cavalry, under the command of Sir Norman Lockhart, Baronet of Lee, the chief of the family 
 of Lockhart, (a house well known in the ancient history of Scotland for gallant deeds, and a name 
 associated with that of the good Sir James Douglas, the greatest and bravest Captain of King Robert 
 the Bruce,) who took up their stations behind the carriage. The cavalcade moved on, and had now 
 assumed a most imposing appearance. Along the whole line of route it was cordially applauded by 
 numerous groups stationed on elevated positions or clustering on the trees; the reapers left the harvest 
 rigg ; each farm-house, hamlet, and village, poured forth their applauding quotas, and, in every sense 
 of the word, the country for miles on miles was raised to a pitch of almost frantic enthusiasm. The 
 procession now neared Larkhall, where another splendid triumphal arch was erected, and where it was 
 to receive its last and greatest equestrian accession; for here it was joined by Mr. Alison, Sheriff of 
 Lanarkshire, (who rode directly in front of the carriage which drew the noble pair,) the men of Kilhride, 
 Cambusnethan, Cambuslang, Hamilton, Shotts, Bothwell, as well as by the Duke’s more distant tenantry 
 from Kinniel in Linlithgowshire, and the Isle of Arran. The junction of the forces, so to speak, was 
 effected amidst the most cordial plaudits and vivas loud and long, which affectionate greetings were 
 handsomely acknowledged by the Marquis and Marchioness, who had become more than ever the cyno- 
 sures of every eye. 
 
 The batallions from the different parishes, iu which his Grace’s estates are situated, and to which 
 the gathering was in some measure restricted, were marshalled and headed under the following leader- 
 ship, each Parish wearing a distinguishing plant in their hats: — 
 
 Lesmahagow, 
 
 •Tames Smith, Esq., Blackwood, 
 
 Braken, or Fern. 
 
 Avondale, 
 
 William Gebbie, Esq. ..... 
 
 Heather. 
 
 Stonehouse, 
 
 Robert Lockhart, Esq. of Castlehill, . 
 
 Portugal Laurel. 
 
 Cam’nethan, 
 
 Sir Henry Seton Steuart of Allanton, Bart. 
 
 Sycamore. 
 
 Dalserf, 
 
 Capt. Campbell, R. N. of Dalserf, 
 
 Birch. 
 
 Arran, 
 
 J. Paterson, Esq. ...... 
 
 Bell Heather. 
 
 Kinniel, 
 
 Robert Rutherford, Esq. ..... 
 
 Holly. 
 
 Kilbride, 
 
 Patrick Graham, Esq. of Limekilns, 
 
 Laurel Bay. 
 
 Cambuslang, 
 
 John Graham, Esq. of Craigallion, 
 
 Mountain Ash. 
 
 Shotts, 
 
 Robert Carrick Buchanan, Esq. of Drumpeller, 
 
 Scots Fir. 
 
 Bothwell, . 
 
 North Dalrymple, Esq. of Cleland, 
 
 Boxwood. 
 
 Hamilton, . 
 
 John Hamilton, Esq. of Fairholm, 
 
 Cinque-foil. 
 
 Each of these gentlemen carried a crimson and white silk flag, the colours of the House of Hamilton, 
 on which was inscribed the name of his parish in gold letters. The equestrian procession consisted 
 
Latlto^xphed by Nf&clare &. MacdODa]^ 
 
13 
 
 treat of the finest kind. One portion of the avenue was occupied on either side by a row of carriages 
 and barouches, filled with ladies. That part of the avenue directly in front of the portico of the Palace' 
 was, in order to prevent confusion, appropriated to ladies and gentlemen on foot. "We have seldom seen 
 such a large assemblage of splendidly dressed ladies, and certainly never witnessed so much beauty and 
 fashion, congregated in circumstances of external grandeur so imposing. Many hundreds of the neigh- 
 bouring gentry were admitted by ticket, and took up their position along the line of road which looked 
 to the front of the Palace. The great majority were ladies, who wore green rosettes, and bore the incon- 
 venience and fatigue of the scorching sun with the most patient equanimity. Here it is right to 
 mention that Captain Vaughan, of the Lanarkshire Militia, preserved the very best order around the 
 Palace, and did his duty most courteously, yet firmly. It must have been a pleasant duty, as most 
 of his company were elegant and beautiful ladies. A splendid band from Glasgow occupied a position 
 in front of the portico; and, under the direction of Sir George Smart, (an old friend of the family, who 
 was a guest at the Palace, and volunteered his great musical experience for the occasion,) they discoursed 
 some beautiful airs. About half-past eleven the Duke arrived from a ride in front of the Palace, and 
 having first made his acknowledgments to the troop of Yeomanry which were drawn up on the left side, 
 but in front of, the Palace, he proceeded to pay his respects to the gay and lovely throng which lined 
 the pathway for a long distance in front of the stately pile. The Duke, in riding slowly down, 
 repeatedly lifted his hat, and bowed to the assemblage on each side, which was acknowledged by the 
 wa-cing of the handkerchiefs of the ladies, and the uncovered heads of the gentlemen. Shortly after- 
 wards the Duchess of Hamilton, the Countess of Lincoln, and the Countess of Dunmore appeared on 
 the platform under the portico, and surveyed the animated scene before them. 
 
 The time having now elapsed for the arrival of the anxiously-expected pair, the booming of guns, 
 announcing that they had at length approached the precincts of Hamilton, was heard with the liveliest 
 satisfaction. At this time, about twelve o’clock, the procession had reached the high grounds above 
 Hamilton Haugh, and the cheer which at first was only heard in murmuring sounds within the Palace 
 walls, at length swelled more audibly, and announced the long-expected approach. 
 
 The cortege left the English road, and, having crossed the Covan (by the new bridge which was 
 appropriately opened yesterday for the first time,) descended into the level grounds of the South Haugh, 
 which it traversed, and then joined the Edinburgh road for a brief space till it reached the Hamilton 
 Bridge Gate, at which the procession entered within the walls and home domain of Hamilton, passing 
 under a beautiful triumphal arch on which the name “ Marie” was inserted in variegated flowers. The 
 arch was surmounted by four flags, one of them bearing the arms of Baden, and another those of 
 Hamilton, and two others consisting of orange and crimson, the colours of the two families. The Haugh 
 was clustered with the town’s people, who greeted the pair as they advanced with the utmost cordiality; 
 but when they reached the gate already mentioned and entered the policy, the enthusiasm was beyond 
 all bounds, and the cheering so enthusiastic, that it drowned the sound of the music on the Palace 
 esplanade. After a veiy brief delay at this floral archway, the following appropriate address was 
 presented to the noble pair by the Magistrates of Hamilton: — 
 
 c 
 
14 
 
 “ Unto the Most Nolle the MARauis op Douglas and Clydesdale, and her Serene 
 Highness Princess Marie, Marchioness of Douglas and Clydesdale, &c. &c. 
 
 “We, the Provost, Magistrates, and Town Council of the Burgh of Hamilton, beg leave most 
 respectfully to approach your Lordship and your Serene Highness with the expression of our sincere con- 
 gratulations on your arrival in Scotland, and to welcome you, with all cordiality, to your princely home. 
 
 “ AYe have regarded with interest the marriage of your Lordship with a daughter of the illustrious 
 house of Baden, and we fondly cherish the hope that this event will be fraught with blessings to the 
 noble house of Hamilton, to the numerous tenantry on their domains, and to the inhabitants of that 
 ancient burgh, so long, and so intimately connected with your Lordship’s family, of which we have the 
 honour to be the guardians and representatives. 
 
 “ That it may please the Almighty Disposer of events to crown your union with every comfort 
 and every happiness, is the sincere wish and fervent prayer of 
 
 “ Y our Lordship and your Serene Highness’ most de, voted and obedient servants — the 
 Provost, Magistrates, and Town Council of Hamilton. 
 
 “ Signed in our name and by our appointment, 
 
 ' “ James Bryson, Provost.” 
 
 The Marquis, who is a tall fine-looking young man, and who was dressed in an olive surtout, with 
 light vest and trousers, and white hat, then rose in his carriage, and, addressing the provost and magis- 
 trates, expressed in a neat and concise speech his thanks for the kind reception given him, and parti- 
 cularly to his bride. He hoped it would form an additional link in the good feeling which had always 
 subsisted between the town of Hamilton and his family ; — and again expressing how much he felt grati- 
 fied, he apologised for not being able to make his voice heard to all who were there assembled, but 
 begged that his thanks might be passed along, and resumed his seat amidst the most enthusiastic 
 cheering. 
 
 The Princess Marie appeared to be much gratified by the reception here given her, and frequently 
 bowed her acknowledgments. She has a pleasing expression, fair complexion, and blue eyes — and looked 
 altogether like a pretty Scotch lady of seventeen or eighteen. 
 
 The cortege then moved slowly on its winding way throughout the grounds, its advance being 
 heralded by crowds of the lower orders, who, in their enthusiasm, had broken through all restraint of 
 walls and gates, and were seen scampering over the policies in every direction, all making for the grand 
 centre of attraction — the front of the Palace. It is true, that they rather disarranged the positions 
 which had already been taken up by the ladies and others; but their conduct, though rough, was good 
 humoured, and scarcely any thing occurred worth cavilling at. 
 
 The Procession had now reached the stately walk which leads direct to the front of the Palace, 
 and its immediate advance was preceded by a troop of the Lanark Yeomanry, whose long travel Avas 
 easily apparent from the jaded horses, whose riders were so completely covered with dust that the 
 
15 
 
 original colour of tlieir jackets could with difficulty be known. Then followed the “ observed of all 
 observers,” — the Marquis of Douglas and Clydesdale, and bis illustrious bride, the Princess Marie, in 
 an open carriage, drawn by four horses. The procession was brought up by additional troops of the 
 Y eomanry and the long line of the mounted farmers from many parishes, in the front of whom rode Mr. 
 Sheriff Alison, the leaders we have already named, and several distinguished gentlemen of the county. 
 As the carriage containing the noble pair advanced, they were received with round on round of cheers, 
 which rent the welkin, and which were cordially acknowledged by the distinguished subjects of so much 
 enthusiasm. AVhen within about a hundred yards of the spacious esplanade of the Palace, the Marquis 
 stood up in the carriage to acknowledge the repeated vivas, and remained standing till it was drawn up 
 immediately in front of the grand entrance. 
 
 It is worthy of mention that the procession through the grounds was headed by two Highland 
 pipers, viz., William and Donald Gunn of Glasgow, one of whom at least has already earned several 
 prizes for his excellence on the pibroch. The placing the pipers in front was a ready thought of Sir 
 George Smart, who thereby gave the Princess the opportunity of hearing the national music of Scotland 
 for the first time, and we have reason to know that the distinguished lady exjjressed herself deeply 
 delighted with the wild strains so peculiar and dear to the Highland hills. 
 
 The carriage being drawn up under the noble portico, the Noble Duke sprang forward and caught 
 his daughter-in-law in his arms, and, imprinting a kiss on her cheek before the assembled thousands, 
 welcomed her to the princely halls of Hamilton. The Duchess immediately received the bride, embraced 
 her with the maternal kiss, and otherwise gave her a reception of the warmest and most affectionate kind . 
 The Countess of Lincoln and the Countess of Dunmore were equally loving in the reception of their 
 interesting relative, and altogether the tender and affectionate greetings of the family, given so openly 
 and so warmly, was a scene not more delightful than it was rare. The Marquis also received the most 
 cordial greeting. On their arrival at the balcony under the portico, to which the Princess was led up 
 by the Duke of Hamilton, and the Duchess by the Marquis of Douglas, the distinguished individuals 
 presented themselves before the assembled thousands, and often and again bowed, amidst the loudest 
 cheering of those below, while the Duchess most affectionately repeated the maternal imprint on her 
 daughter-in-law’s cheek. Here the Princess received the congratulations of the Honourable Henry 
 Murray, and was introduced to Sir George Smart, Mr. Sheriff Alison, Mr. Graham of Capilly, and 
 other gentlemen, who ascended the platform. The illustrious Lady generally conversed in English, 
 which we are delighted to know she speaks as ffuently as though the British Isles had been the place 
 of her birth instead of the land of her adoption. 
 
 At this moment the scene was peculiarly exciting ; the lengthened and spacious front of the Palace 
 was occupied by the Yeomanry; and in a line behind them upon the green, and on each side of the 
 pathway, were drawn up the several rural battalions, each with the silken banner bearing the name of 
 the district to which they belonged ffoating at their head. Although they occupied this position, and 
 were intended to form a cordon around the immediate precincts of the Palace, the enthusiasm of the 
 unmarshalled people set these restraints at nought; they pressed through amongst the horses, and 
 finally they ascended the grand staircase by the score, cheering and waving their caps. 
 
 The illustrious party already named remained on the platform for nearly half an hour, the Duke 
 and Marquis, meanwhile, having descended the staircase to express their acknowledgments to many 
 of their friends below. They finally retired within the Palace, and this was the signal for the departure 
 
16 
 
 of the immense concourse which had assembled. This they did in the most orderly manner, and it is 
 matter of much satisfaction and pride to say that the Lord of Hamilton will have no cause to regret the 
 admittance of so many thousands within his private domain, for order, hilarity, and extreme heartiness 
 seemed to be the guiding rule of all. The Yeomen and rural cavaliers then retired to picket their steeds 
 according to the arrangements which had been considerately made, previous to assembling to dinner. 
 
 We may state, what we do with pleasure, that all the distinguished persons appeared to be in the 
 enjoyment of the best health, — the Marquis of Douglas especially, exhibiting an elasticity and exuber- 
 ance of spirit which well befitted an occasion in which he was such an important and joyous actor. He 
 appeared the very picture of robust health. His bride was attired in a blue crape bonnet, and a blue 
 silk scarf. Although, doubtless, much fatigued, especially considering her interesting situation, with 
 her long travel in an open carriage, and under a blazing sun, the Royal Lady seemed to be in excellent 
 health and spirits, and frequently partook of the sweets of a beautiful bouquet which had been presented 
 to her on her arrival by the Duchess. The Marchioness’s dress was plain and modest ; and though it 
 is not our province to enter into the personal appearance of the distinguished Lady, it may not be out of 
 place to state that flattering remarks were every where heard regarding the sweet, artless, and honest 
 Scotch countenance of the bride of Hamilton. 
 
 There are some additional particulars in the following letter from a correspondent of one of the 
 Conservative Journals; indeed all the newspapers, of whatever politics, seemed to vie with each other 
 in their courteous description of this grand ceremonial: — 
 
 “Hamilton, \2th September, 1843. 
 
 “ For months past all has been bustle and preparation at Hamilton Palace, in anticipation of the 
 arrival of the Marquis of Douglas and the Princess Marie of Baden. In the various preparations to 
 give a hearty welcome to the happy couple on their first visit to the Palace after their nuptials, the fine 
 taste of his Grace the Duke of Hamilton has been most conspicuous, and up till the day of arrival all 
 was activity to bring them to a close. Outside, triumphal arches of the most tasteful description were 
 erected in many conspicuous situations through which the noble couple were to pass; and dinner. tables, 
 to which hundreds, yea, thousands of people were invited on the joyous occasion, were spread with a 
 lavish hand: in short, the approaching ‘welcome’ seemed a pleasant duty to all, and in which it would 
 have been ungallant not to have taken a part ; hence the interest with which the auspicious day was 
 looked forward to throughout Lanarkshire.” 
 
 “Douglas Mill Inn, \Zth September. 
 
 “Understanding that the illustrious couple were, for certain, to pass a night at Douglas Mill 
 Inn, I took a cast up this forenoon. The weather was splendid, and the whole country being loaded 
 with yellow grain, had a delightfully rich appearance. I learned on arrival that the Marquis and IMar- 
 chioness were to leave the Bush Hotel, Carlisle, this day at eleven o’clock, on their route to Scotland, and 
 as you foretold, the road was to be taken easy on account of the interesting situation of the Princess. 
 At Crawford Inn, twelve miles above Douglas Mill, the noble couple were to be met by George Irvine, 
 Esq., of Newton, with his tenants and friends, accompanied by the tenants of Sir Edward Colebrooke, 
 who were to escort them to Douglas Mill Inn, (Mr. Lambert,) where they were to pass the night. This 
 
17 
 
 showed the good taste of the Marquis, for a more charming specimen of a country inn, beautifully 
 situated and cleanly kept, we have seldom seen; and with much good taste, the landlord did not 
 attempt to render it too fine by ridiculous show. With some neat alteration on the furniture of the 
 rooms, the house remained as it used to be. As the noble party were expected by seven o’clock, crowds 
 of the villagers from the adjacent districts began to assemble by four o’clock; and at six a Yeomanry 
 guard of honour, but not mounted, formed before the inn door, under the command of Captain Lock- 
 hart. Crowds of ladies and gentlemen were present, but the expected time of arrival had long passed, 
 and still there was no word of the expected visiters. Ultimately a good deal of anxiety began to be 
 felt about them, when at half-past nine o’clock the distant cheers and the rattling of carriages dispelled 
 all fears. In an instant after the Marquis’s travelling carriage and four dashed up to the inn door, and 
 the Yeomanry having formed an avenue from the coach to the inn, the illustrious couple alighted, and 
 the Marquis walked in, the Princess leaning on his arm, amidst the most enthusiastic congratulations. 
 The Marchioness seemed much afiected with the greetings of the people, and if I am not mistaken, a 
 tear stood in her eye. I was exceedingly delighted with the reception of the beautiful stranger in the 
 country of her adoption, and this gratification was the more intense, as I had seen the Princess before 
 at Baden, and knew that she had the character, in her own country, of being every thing that was 
 unassuming and aflfable, — a perfect personification of all that was pure, and amiable, and lovely in 
 woman. On this account I was delighted, beyond measure, to see that the reception of the Princess 
 was all that could be desired, and to observe that the Princess felt it to be so. 
 
 “ On journeying down to Hamilton soon after the arrival at Douglas Mill, I observed that at 
 Lesmahagow and Larkhall there were splendid triumphal arches erected, and that nothing had been 
 left undone to secure good order on the road.” 
 
 “ Hamilton, 14<A September. 
 
 “ This morning was certainly one of the most resplendent that ever shone upon Clydesdale, and all 
 was animation and good humour. At an eatrly hour the streets were crowded with strangers, and bands 
 of music hurrying to and fro. Many were busy in trying to secure tickets for the dinners and the parks, 
 and the courtesy and characteristic politeness of Mr. Brown was very conspicuous — his favours being all 
 dispensed purely upon principle. Be that as it may, invitation cards to the parks were liberally dis- 
 tributed to the neighbouring gentry, and we heard no complaints of partiality in the dinner invitations. 
 To look after and superintend the waiters in this important part of the ceremonial, Forrester from Glas- 
 gow was engaged, and he did the thing well, as usual. At this time, from seven till twelve o’clock, 
 crowds of people by all sorts of conveyances, from the splendid carriage and four to the country cart, 
 continued to pour into Hamilton. We do not mention the pedestrians, — but these were by far the most 
 numerous portion of the company. From charming Bothwell, in the immediate vicinity, and as far as 
 Arran, the kindly-hearted people came in crowds to welcome the stranger Princess — and it turned out 
 to be a welcome indeed — a welcome of which even the beloved Sovereign of these realms might have 
 felt proud. Early in the forenoon, those who had tickets began to pour into the park, taking up their 
 station in the most admirable order on the magnificent lawn in front of the princely Palace of Hamilton. 
 The ladies were all together in front of the Palace, lining each side of the green lawn where the Prin- 
 cess and her husband were to pass, and the gentlemen and all the equipages were placed farther behind. 
 A splendid band played the finest airs in front of the Palace; the bells of the town spoke out cheerily; 
 
18 
 
 and the Duke of Hamilton, with high courtesy, rode up and down his domain, bowing and conversing 
 with many of the ladies and gentlemen present. His Grace seemed in high spirits, and most anxious 
 to make every one happy. At this period, it was allowed on all hands that the Queen, on her late 
 visit, had seen nothing in Scotland at all to be compared with the scene which awaited the Princess of 
 Baden in front of the splendid Palace of Hamilton. It was indeed a most royal and magnificent sight 
 altogether j and never did the princely portals of one of the finest ducal residences in Scotland look 
 more splendid than on this day, in presence of such a concourse of fair dames and gallant men, with a 
 truly Italian sun shedding lustre over all. Here there was no wearying, but, punctual to the hour, the 
 distant booming of the guns announced that the cavalcade was in sight. 
 
 ‘ Then all the loud artillery spoke, 
 
 With lightning flash and thunder stroke,’ 
 
 and soon after the Marquis’s carriage, preceded by a piper and a squadron of Yeomanry, and followed 
 by thousands of mounted friends, drove into the green lawns of Hamilton. In the course of a few min- 
 utes, the carriage, containing the ‘ observed of all observers,’ drew up in front of the portico, and close 
 to the steps of the Palace, the carriage door was thrown open, and the Duke came down, with open 
 arms, and in the most fraternal manner, embraced, and repeatedly saluted on the cheek, his illustrious 
 daughter-in-law, amidst the rapturous cheerings of the spectators. In a moment after the Princess 
 was in the arms of the Duchess and Countess of Lincoln ; and, sooth to say, the spectacle altogether 
 was of such a moving and truly natural character, as to draw tears of pleasure from many eyes, not 
 much accustomed to the melting mood. The acclamations of the people knew no bounds ; the scene 
 before them had touched every heart to the core, because it was natural and unaffectedly sincere. The 
 Princess, the Duchess, and Lady Lincoln, after recovering a little from the delight of a scene so 
 ennobling to human nature, turned round and repeatedly bowed, with all their hearts, and with fervent 
 emotion, to the company, for their congratulations. The Marquis also seemed highly delighted, while 
 the good Duke came at once down amongst the people, and with full heart and moistened eye, shook 
 hands with all who pleased, in the satisfaction of the moment. Never did I see a more truly grati- 
 fying scene, and never more correct deportment on the part of the crowd. To be sure a number of 
 the bonneted boys mounted the grand staircase soon after the scene, but I believe it was only in the 
 exuberance of their joy that they did so. 
 
 It being now two o’clock, all those having tickets to dine, and these amounted to 880 in the 
 Riding School — 443 in the Ball-room — 300 in the County Hall — 246 in the Pavilion, besides other 
 parties, to the number of betwixt 600 and 700 who dined in the Academy, and nearly 200 in the 
 Mason Lodges, moved off, and the grounds were soon cleared. 
 
 “ Where all did their duty with much devotion, it may be thought invidious by some to mention 
 any names at all, but this shall not deter me from noticing the admirable and eflScient service rendered 
 to the cause of peace and good order by Captain Paterson of Bothwell Bank Cottage. That gentleman 
 had the charge of the arrangements at the South Haugh, where the whole cavalcade entered, and every 
 one allowed that he did his duty like a good old soldier, kindly and impartially to aU. Even those 
 whom he kept in order acknowledged that he did so gently and fairly. Amongst many others, I 
 adjourned to the dinner in the County Hall, at which Provost James Bryson presided, and Alex. 
 Graham, Esq. of Capilly, acted as croupier, the chairman being supported by Treasurer Anderson, 
 
1!J 
 
 Bailie Swim, Mr. Turnbull of Glasgow, Mr. William Henderson of Sliawburn, the Town Clerk, &c. &c. 
 
 After the dinner was discussed, the healths of the Princess and Grand Duchess of Baden, the Marquis 
 of Douglas, the Duke and Duchess, and many others, were drunk with great applause from a gigantic 
 punch bowl, which contained four or five gallons, and which some kind friend had very considerately 
 and appropriately presented to the Magistrates and Council. At the great dinner in the Riding School, 
 every thing went on with great glee with the farmers and others present, — 
 
 ‘ The quaighs were deep, the liquor strong. 
 
 But the bold yeomen stood it long;’ 
 
 Y ea, even unto the end, and all went home in good time, after spending one of the most memorable and 
 happy days that ever occurred in Hamilton — a day that will not soon be forgotten, and should not be 
 forgotten. It was, indeed, a day of happiness of a whole county. It will assuredly be always 
 celebrated as a white day by the present generation of inn and toll keepers. — Yesterday, the principal 
 business on the road from Glasgow upwards, was loads of liquors of all descriptions to supply the 
 place of the consumption of the previous day. 
 
 “ As the Duke of Hamilton played his part so well to-day, we may mention one or two incidents in 
 the life of his Grace; — At an early period of life, the Duke went abroad, and passed several years on 
 the Continent, occupied in the pursuit of the fine arts — his favourite study. During the greater part of 
 his days, his Grace has been however occasionally engaged in public afiairs, and latterly chiefiy employed 
 in conducting the business connected with the counties wherein his estates are situated. The Duke 
 married at London, on the 26th April, 1810, his cousin Susan Euphemia, second daughter of William 
 Beckford of Fonthill-Giffbrd, in Wiltshire, Esq., (whose mother was daughter and co-heir of the 
 Honourable George Hamilton, sixth son of James, sixth earl of Abercorn,) by the Lady Margaret 
 Gordon, daughter of Charles, fourth earl of Aboyne, by whom he has issue William Alexander Anthony 
 Archibald, Marquis of Douglas and Clydesdale, born 15th February, 1811; and Countess of Lincoln, 
 born 9th June, 1814. 
 
 “ The character given by Sir David Wilkie of the premier Duke is very finely put. The great 
 painter said, at a public dinner where the Duke presided, ‘ His Grace of Hamilton, in his own person, 
 represents the noblesse of three great kingdoms — the generous chivalry of France, the baronial 
 aristocracy of England, and the cheftains and the thanes of our own ancient kingdom : the first of our * 
 
 peers, the first of our cognoscenti, and in his palace possessing the first gallery of art our country can 
 boast of ; whose family is, from their taste, dear to the Scottish artist, as the family of the Medici is to the 
 Italian ; and whose ancestors are dear to the poet and historian, as well as to the painter, for the dis- 
 tinguished part they have taken, side by side, with royalty, in the romantic history of our country.’” 
 
 THE DINNERS. 
 
 After a morning and forenoon spent with so much exertion, attention to the “ creature comforts ” 
 became not only agreeable but indispensable, and, generally speaking, the numerous body of gentlemen 
 who formed the procession stood much in need of refreshment, for many of them had ridden from 20 to 
 30 miles without almost drawing bridle. Every thing, however, which could minister to a body fatigued 
 
20 
 
 was most abundantly and sumptuously supplied by the Duke ; and after having moved from the palace 
 and picketed their horses, the party returned to the grounds, and sat down to dinner in the various 
 pavilions which had been there fitted up for the purpose. The parties were here marshalled under their 
 leaders in much the same order in which they had joined in the procession; the appropriate silken 
 banners, bearing the name of the parish to which the party belonged, floated above the table at which 
 they were seated, and thus all confusion and disorder was averted, and they formed a series of large 
 family or parochial parties. To all, the material of conviviality was supplied in the greatest abundance, 
 for, in addition to the ordinary bill of fare, seven of the celebrated white breed of Scottish oxen, which 
 graze in Cadzow pastures, as well as several fat bucks, had been killed for the occasion. 
 
 The first or largest party was held in the Riding School, within the policy, over which his Grace 
 the Duke of Hamilton presided, and at which about 850 guests were assembled. 
 
 The second party, numbering 250, dined in a pavilion, and was presided over by the Marquis of 
 Douglas — John Dalrymple, Esq., M.P. yr. of Clelland, and Robert Buchanan, Esq., of Drumpeller, 
 croupiers. 
 
 The third and fourth parties, numbering upwards of 400, dined in the Assembly Rooms — the one 
 department, consisting of the Yeomanry of Lanarkshire, being presided over by Sir Norman M‘Donald 
 Lockhart, Bart. — William Lockhart, Esq., M.P., officiating as croupier; and the other department, 
 consisting of the gentlemen of Avondale, being presided over by William Gebbie, Esq. 
 
 All these parties were held within the policies, and in the immediate vicinity of the Palace; they 
 were most admirably fitted up, festooned with evergreens, and bore prominently the arms of Hamilton. 
 By the exertions of Sir George Smart, the band which had discoursed such eloquent music on the 
 esplanade in front of the Palace was divided, and thus each of the parties was supplied with a due share 
 of this admirable aid to mirth and hilarity. 
 
 Beyond the walls of the Palace various dinners were held, the principal being the festive meeting 
 in the Town Hall, numbering 250, of which Provost Bryson was chairman, and Mr. Graham, of 
 Capilly, croupier. In addition to these, the various trades, mason lodges, and societies, to the num- 
 ber of nearly 800, held their banquets in the Academy, and their various lodge rooms throughout the 
 town; and altogether it is believed that about 2500 gentlemen dined and made merry on this memor- 
 able occasion. It is pleasing to record of the Duke, that “ while he feasted all the great, he ne’er 
 forgot the small,” for to upwards of 200 of the tradesmen and labourers in his Grace’s employment, an 
 excellent dinner was served up ; and the humbler orders were plentifully regaled with ale, porter, and 
 bread and cheese, on the South Haugh, and the Public Green, and pledged their bumpers to the 
 health of the Marquis of Douglas and the Princess Marie, as cordially as did their betters. 
 
 To chronicle the doings at so many boards is, of course, far beyond our means. We give, how- 
 ever, a brief notice of those which were most numerously attended, viz. : — 
 
 THE FESTIVITY IN THE RIDING SCHOOL. 
 
 His Grace the Duke of Hamilton filled the Chair. Croupiers — Patrick Graham, Esq. of Lime- 
 kilns, John Graham, Esq. of Craigallion, John Hamilton, Esq. of Fairholm, Captain Campbell, of 
 Dalserf, Robert Rutherford, Esq., and James Smith, Esq. His Grace was supported right and left by 
 Mr. Sheriff Alison, the Hon. Henry Murray, North Dalrymple, Esq. of Clelland, Sir AYilliam Maxwell, 
 Bart, of Calderwood, Sir Henry Seton Stuart, Bart, of Allanton, the Hon. Major Cochrane, Captain 
 
21 
 
 Greville, and many of the county gentlemen of Lanarkshire. The Rev. Mr. Keith of Hamilton asked 
 a blessing, and returned thanks. 
 
 After the usual preliminary toasts had been disposed of, — 
 
 The Noble Duke said — The toast which I have now to propose to you is one which I submit with 
 a deep feeling of anxiety, and at the same time an impression of great kindness from the numerous 
 assemblage which has this day come forward to greet the arrival of my son and of my daughter-in-law. 
 (Applause.) Gentlemen — 1 will at once propose to you the health of the Marquis of Doiiglas and of 
 the Princess Marie his bride. (Immense applause, which was continued for several minutes.) From 
 the demonstration which has been made this day, and from the sentiments which have animated those 
 by whom I am surrounded, and who have met to congratulate m^ and my family on an event so near 
 and dear to me, I do hope that it wiU also be found not only dear, but beneficial, to them and the 
 whole neighbourhood. If this event is grateful to you, how much more so must it be grateful to me, 
 who regard it in the important and sacred light of a parent; and it is only those who know the senti- 
 ments of parental affection can be aware of the feelings of affection which attach to a son on an occa- 
 sion of this kind. I therefore beg to call on you to drink to the health of the Marquis and the Princess 
 Marie — the bride and bridegroom, who have this day arrived at their native home. (The toast was 
 received with enthusiastic plaudits, the band playing, “ Woo’ed and married an’ a’.” ) 
 
 Mr. Lockhart of Camnethan felt highly honoured in being called on by his old and steady friend, the 
 Chairman, to propose a toast. It was the health of the Duke and Duchess of Hamilton, with long life 
 to them, and every prosperity to them and their family. The toast was drank con amove. 
 
 The Duke of Hamilton briefly returned thanks. 
 
 Mr. Graham of Limekilns begged to propose the health of a distinguished Lady, and family — 
 one who was near and dear to their Noble host, and to those whom they had that day met to welcome. 
 He proposed the healths of the Earl and Countess of Lincoln, and children. (Loud applause.) 
 
 At this moment the Princess Marie entered the dining hall, on a visit to the meeting, accompanied 
 by the Duchess of Hamilton, Lady Lincoln, the Countess of Dunmore, and the Marquis of Douglas. 
 They took up their position on a neat little platform raised a foot or two above the Chairman’s seat, 
 and the greeting with which they were received was of such an enthusiastic kind that order was not 
 restored for several minutes. 
 
 The Duke of Hamilton then said — Gentlemen, Mr. Sherifi' Alison is about to propose a toast to 
 you, and I anticipate the reception you will give it, from that which you have just now given to the 
 Lady who has presented herself to you. That you may not regret it afterwards, I would recommend 
 you all to fill your glasses to the brim, that you may do honour to the toast. 
 
 Mr. Sheriff Alison then said — My Lord Duke, you have already drank the health of the Marquis 
 and Marchioness of Douglas with that enthusiasm which the toast so well deserved. But the kindness of 
 your Grace has entrusted to me a duty of a much more valuable kind — that of proposing, in her own 
 presence, the health of the Princess Marie, Marchioness of Douglas. [The announcement was received 
 with a perfect torrent of acclaim, during which the Princess rose, and, evidently much affected, bowed 
 her acknowledgments to the company. The illustrious Lady also extended her hand to the Sheriff, 
 which he respectfully carried to his lips.] The Sheriff continued — My Lord Duke, I was about to say, 
 that we were honoured by the presence of the illustrious foreign Princess, who has honoured the house 
 of Hamilton with her alliance ; but my heart smote me at the word “ foreign,” for none in England 
 
 D 
 
22 
 
 and none in Scotland can regard any German Princess as a foreigner. (Immense applause.) We all 
 bear in our veins the German blood of the Anglo-Saxon race, which has made England a nation — a 
 nation that has given the British Empire the dominion of half the globe. (Loud applause.) We owe 
 to the German nation the greatest blessings which this country has ever received; for we owe to it the 
 Reformation, which has given purity to our religion, and we owe to it also the art of Printing, which 
 has given eternity to our knowledge. (Applause.) All the alliances of Britain with Germany have 
 proved fortunate. We owe to our alliance with Germany the Brunswick race, which ascended the 
 tlirone with the hearty concurrence of the nation ; and we also owe to Germany that auspicious union 
 which has restored to this country the unspeakable blessing of lineal descendants to the throne. But 
 among all the alliances which have taken place betwixt British nobility and German royalty, none has 
 been more auspicious than that we are this day called to honour. (Immense applause.) We are 
 assembled to celebrate the union of the son of the first Peer of Scotland — and, whose Family, after the 
 Royal Family, was formerly recognised as the heir to the Crown of this ancient kingdom of Scotland — 
 with a Princess who is related, not only to illustrious houses in Germany, but is nearly connected with 
 the imperial lines of Russia, Austria, France, and England. (Loud applause.) My Lord, I feel that we 
 are honoured by this alliance, and I am sincerely happy to be present at its celebration ; but looking 
 to the assembly around me, which has met to greet this memorable occasion, I feel that there is no 
 inequality in the alliance : for the son of the first Peer of Scotland, and, after the Royal Family, the 
 heir to the Scottish Crown, may well claim alliance with any house in Europe, however exalted and 
 imperial it may be. (Loud apjjlause, which was continued for several minutes.) Gentlemen, I feel 
 additional satisfaction that the first welcome in this country to the illustrious Lady, has been given by 
 the Yeomen of Scotland — by the tenantry on the vast estates of the Duke of Hamilton, aided by the 
 kindred feeling of the tenantry on the estates of Lord Douglas, — (applause) — and I hail this auspicious 
 union as an indication that the best and noblest feelings of our nature are not extinct in British bosoms. 
 I hail it as an indication that the loyalty of modern times is not, as in ancient times, a blind feeling of 
 submission irrespective of consequences ; but a scene like tbe present shows that it is an attachment 
 founded on reason, based on experienced blessings, which will grow and increase with the enlighten- 
 ment, and education, and improvement of mankind. When I am surrounded by the tenantry of the 
 great estates of the Hamiltons, extending from Tinto-top to Goatfell, from Queensberry hill to the shores 
 of the Forth, I need not say, that this union will be felt by all who hear me as a new and important bond 
 between the aristocracy and the people. And, while they are supported in their own possessions, we 
 are entitled to regard the aristocracy as the firmest supporters of the rights and privileges of the people. 
 (Applause.) Gentlemen, I feel rejoiced that the impression which the Princess Marie has received of 
 Lanarkshire has been of such a very favourable kind, and that she has seen such a magnificent assem- 
 blage of the gentlemen and yeomen of the County to greet her arrival. It would appear as if Provi- 
 dence itself had smiled on this auspicious day ; and it is to be hoped that the Princess Marie, in forming 
 her opinion of the Septembers of Scotland, will judge of it from wbat she has this day seen. (Applause, 
 and a laugh.) Gentlemen, I cannot over-estimate the importance of meetings which nnite the first in 
 rank and station among our nobility, with the great mass of their tenantry and followers ; and when 
 on this subject, I cannot forbear to allude to the grace and good taste that has brought the followers of 
 the house of Douglas, for the first time during a century, to stand side by side with the followers of 
 the house of Hamilton. (Tremendous applause.) This, Gentlemen, is one of the best emblems of the 
 
23 
 
 beneficial results which you have derived from German alliance. The alliances between Germany and 
 England have been of long standing, and, I repeat, have been productive of the greatest blessings to the 
 community. Hundreds of years have elapsed since they and our countrymen stood side by side together, 
 witness the wars of Gustavus Adolphus, and these events are graved on the tablets of our national history 
 in characters never to be effaced. They stood side by side at the fields of Minden and Blenheim at 
 the cannonade of Leipzic, and the thunders of Waterloo. (Loud applause.) Gentlemen, in this very 
 alliance I see the fairest augury of future blessings to Scotland. In the Noble Marquis I see the 
 lineal descendant of the hero, whose swoyd was the safeguard of Bruce on the field of Bannockburn : 
 in the illustrious Princess, the representative of one of the first of the German Chiefs who threw their 
 bucklers over the intrepidity of Luther. (Cheers.) And may we not expect from such an union, a 
 race of nobles who will ever be foremost at once in defending our national independence and our national 
 faith. (Loud cheers.) But why should I speak of the rank ! — why of the alliance ! — 
 
 “ The rank is but the guinea stamp, 
 
 The Bride's the gold for a’ that.” (Cheers.) 
 
 And fine gold you will find it to be. (Loud cheers.) Gentlemen, in her own presence, it would ill 
 become me to speak of the qualities of the Princess Marie ; but I am sure you have all seen enough to 
 be convinced, that she unites to the kindness of German feeling, the warmth of a Scottish heart. (Loud 
 cheers.) Highly educated, she is as familiar with the literature of this country as that of her own : she 
 already speaks English like a native, and will soon speak good Scotch too ; — (cheers,) — but there is one 
 subject with which she is better versed than others, 
 
 “ The short and simple annals of the poor.” (Loud cheers.) 
 
 Gentlemen, under such influence we may hope to see perpetuated — for we never hope to see exceeded 
 — the grace and elegance which have so long thrown an air of enchantment round the halls of 
 Hamilton. (Cheers.) But what eulogium can be so high, on her character and heart, as you have been 
 this day witnesses to : for while she left all around her in tears of sorrow when she quitted the shores 
 of the Rhine, here they were in tears of rapture when she approached the banks of the Clyde. 
 (Immense applause.) To conclude, therefore, I hope that the alliance which unites the Princess Marie 
 to the noble son of the house of Hamilton, will be as beneficial as it is grateful to Lanai’kshire. I 
 therefore propose “ The health of the Princess Marie, the Marchioness of Douglas and Clydesdale.” 
 (The toast, we need scarcely say, was cheered to the very echo ; the standard-bearers waved their flags, 
 and not a few of the company stood upon their seats, the more cordially to give voice and utterance to 
 their enthusiasm. The Marquis of Douglas applauded like the others, and shook his bride affectionately 
 by the hand. The illustrious Lady was deeply affected by the burst of warm and affectionate feeling by 
 which she was greeted, and was moved unto tears.) 
 
 The Marquis of Douglas rose, after the applause had subsided, and said, — Gentlemen, I feel that 
 after what has been said so well and so kindly, by the gentleman who has proposed the health of my 
 wife, very few words are necessary on my part. Therefore, in her name, as well as in my own, I 
 return you sincere thanks for your kind reception. I am certain that the more you are acquainted with 
 her, and the more she becomes acquainted with you, the more will she learn to forget the banks of the 
 Rhine, and feel that Clyde banks are bonnie O. (Tremendous applause.) I am certain it will be my 
 
24 
 
 earnest desire to endear this part of the country to her, and so far as I have experience of married life, 
 I think I have some influence over my wife, which may he exerted to this end. (Applause and laugh- 
 ter.) I beg, therefore, to return you all my cordial thanks. 
 
 The Duke of Hamilton then proposed a bumper to the health of the Grand Duchess Dowager of 
 Baden. It was due to that illustrious Lady that her name should not be forgotten in an assembly like 
 the present. If they had been gratified with the daughter, the meeting should recollect that we owe to 
 Her Royal Highness that daughter whose destinies she has placed in our hands — a daughter who has 
 engaged her parental solicitude — a daughter even whose education she has constantly watched, whilst 
 her exemplary character could not fail to give a stimulus and example to every virtue. This daughter 
 has scarcely ever been out of her sight, her companion, her nurse, and her dutiful attendant. Knowing 
 this, gentlemen, you will judge of the sacrifice she has made in parting with her. The Noble Duke 
 then eulogised, with much warmth, the many public and private virtues of the Grand Duchess, and 
 concluded by proposing her health, which was most cordially responded to. [The Princess Marie 
 bowed her acknowledgments for the compliment paid to her illustrious mother; and, as on a former 
 occasion, seemed affected to tears.] 
 
 The Princess Marie then retired, accompanied by the distinguished party with whom she entered. 
 The Duke also soon vacated the chair, which was assumed by his nephew, the Hon. Henry Murray. 
 
 Captain Greville proposed the health of the Earl and Countess of Dunmore, which was duly 
 applauded. 
 
 The Hon. H. Murray then proposed, in a humourous speech, “ the Land of Cakes” and “ the 
 Lasses,” which were duly honoured. 
 
 Mr. Murray proposed a cup of thanks to Mr. Brown, for his exertions on the occasion, which was 
 cordially received. 
 
 Sheriff Alison said, as most of the gentlemen' present had far to ride, there was now no time to 
 be lost. He would therefore propose, in a single sentence, a bumper to the health of the Duke of 
 Hamilton, their Chairman, and also a cup of thanks to his illustrious relative who had succeeded him. 
 
 The Hon. Chairman briefly returned thanks, after which the meeting broke up a little before six 
 o’clock, after spending three hours in a manner which must have been acknowledged by all to have 
 been most rational and delightful. 
 
 DINNER IN THE PAVILION. 
 
 This party, which was presided over by the Marquis of Douglas, numbered about 250. Right 
 and left of the Chair we observed, — Alexander Oswald, Esq., M.P. for Ayrshire, James Pringle, Esq., 
 younger of Stitchill, William Waddell, Esq. of Easter MoflPat, Robert Stnart, Esq. of Carfin, William 
 Murray, Esq. of Monkland, John Wilson, Esq. Dundyvan, John Wilson, jun.. Esq., John 
 Robertson of Laucoup, William Forrest of Treesbank, William Baird, Esq. M.P. for the Falkirk 
 Burghs. — Captain John Dalrymple, M.P. for Wigtonshire, officiated as Croupier. 
 
 On the withdrawal of the cloth, the Marquis gave in succession, “ The Queen, and her royal con- 
 sort Prince Albert.” “The Queen Dowager, and the rest of the royal family;” which were heartily 
 responded to. 
 
 The Croupier then rose to propose a toast. He said he felt a very great honour had been con- 
 ferred on him by his being privileged to propose “ The healths of the Marquis and Marchioness of 
 
25 
 
 Douglas.” (Great cheering.) He felt totally inadequate to do full justice to this toast. What he 
 wanted in words, however, he was certain was made up for by the sincerity and heartfelt pleasure he 
 had in proposing it. (Loud cheering.) The amiable and good qualities of the Marquis were so well 
 known here, that he would be excused dilating. The fame of the beauty, the virtue, and the accom- 
 plishments of the illustrions Lady whom he had chosen for his partner, had long ago reached Scotland, 
 and had prepared for her in the hearts of its people a deep and heartfelt welcome. (Loud cheers.) 
 Report had not exaggerated the affable deportment and pleasing manners of the Princess, and he was 
 sure that one so well beloved in her own country, could not but be as well received here. (Cheers.) 
 He hoped the proceedings of this day* would testify the feelings with which they hailed her arrival. 
 The toast was drank with three times three. 
 
 The Noble Marquis, in acknowledging the toast, said, he was perfectly certain, after what all of 
 them had witnessed to-day, they would give him credit when he said that a few words would be best 
 on such an occasion. He had been received with a kindness altogether overpowering. He had cer- 
 tainly believed that kindness would have been shown him, but the manner in which he had been 
 received exceeded any thing he could have anticipated or hoped for. He could only say now that he 
 had returned to his native land with the wish to remain in it. (Loud cheers.) Perhaps of late they 
 had not many opportunities of seeing him, but now that he had come back, he hoped they would have 
 many opportunities of friendly intercourse. With regard to the manner in which they had received 
 his wife amongst them, he had to say that he had always loved the banks of the Clyde, but that would 
 make them doubly dear to him. The Marquis concluded by a poetical apostrophe to the banks of the 
 Clyde, and resumed his seat amidst rapturous plaudits. 
 
 The Croupier next gave, amidst loud cheers, “ Their Graces the Duke and Duchess of Hamilton.” 
 When he heard these cheers, and beheld the many happy faces around him, he felt persuaded that in 
 his Grace they had a liberal kind landlord, and a sincere and steady friend. (Loud cheers.) On the 
 many amiable qualities of his Grace he need not enlarge at present, but he was sure the citizens of 
 Hamilton would bear him out when he stated that, but for the liberal hand of charity held out to them 
 by his Grace during the late season of distress, many of them would have been ont of existence. 
 (Cheers.) For himself he might say, he had never entered his doors without pleasure, and never left 
 them but with regret. (Cheers.) Of the character and kindly disposition of the Duchess he did not 
 require to utter a word ; her Grace was well known and beloved by all. (Loud cheers.) 
 
 The Marquis returned thanks for the kind manner in which the health of their Graces had been 
 received. He felt that to his father he was indebted as well as to them. First, he might say, that 
 he had not only formed the establishment around, but in benefitting his estates had benefitted his different 
 dependants. To him his Grace had always exhibited the feelings of a father, and towards him he had 
 always felt as a son, and acted as these feelings warranted. (Cheers.) His mother’s valuable qualities 
 were too well known to the gentlemen present for him to allude to them. When he would inform her 
 of the manner in which her name had been received, he was sure she would be as highly gratified as 
 her son. 
 
 Mr. Carrick Buchanan, in a few appropriate remarks, proposed “ The Earl and Countess of Lin- 
 coln and children,” which was given with all the honours. 
 
 [At this stage of the business the Marquis retired, amid loud cheers, for the purpose of bringing the 
 
26 
 
 Marchioness to witness the proceedings, and to express her thanks in person for the honour conferred 
 upon her. — Mr. Alexander Oswald was then called to the Chair.] 
 
 The Croupier next proposed “Her Royal Highness the Grand Duchess Dowager of Baden,” 
 which was loudly cheered. 
 
 Mr. William Robertson gave “ The Earl and Countess of Dunmore,” in a few appropriate remarks. 
 The toast was warmly received. 
 
 The Croupier, in a few humourous remarks, and with all due deference to the presence of Mr. 
 Oswald, who might represent the lasses of Ayrshire, gave “ The Ladies of Lanarkshire.” Tune — 
 “ Green grows the rashes, O ! ” 
 
 Mr. Oswald, in a few pointed remarks, gave “ The Gentlemen of Lanarkshire who had this day 
 honoured them with their presence.” Tune — “ Brose and Butter.” 
 
 Mr. D. C. Buchanan returned thanks. 
 
 [About this time the Marquis of Douglas, accompanied by his fair lady the Marchioness, the 
 Duchess of Hamilton, the Countess of Dunmore, and Countess of Lincoln, suddenly appeared by a small 
 entrance at the head of the table, and were accommodated with seats on the platform there. Their 
 appearance was the signal for an enthusiastic demonstration, the entire company rising to their feet and 
 cheering vociferously. After a word or two from the Marquis, and a graceful acknowledgment from 
 the Marchioness, the party retired as they had entered.] 
 
 The Croupier gave “ The health of his Grace of Hamilton as Lord Lieutenant of the County.” 
 Tune — “ The good old country gentleman.” 
 
 Mr. Oswald gave the health of “ Mr. Lockhart, M.P. for the County.” He proposed it, and hoped 
 it would be received, apart altogether from any alloy of party politics. It was drunk with all the 
 honours. 
 
 The Croupier, amidst loud cheers, proposed the health of “ Mr. Robert Brown.” This toast was 
 received with great applause. 
 
 [At this stage of the business the Duke appeared, accompanied by the Marquis, and was welcomed 
 with vociferous cheering.] 
 
 Having been accommodated with a seat near the Chairman, the Marquis gave as a toast “ The 
 Land o’ Cakes.” Given with all the honours. 
 
 The Croupier again gave the health of his Grace of Hamilton, who acknowledged the toast as fol- 
 lows : — The demonstration of kindness which he had received on all sides, rendered it extremely difficult 
 for him to know which side to turn to, or where to begin, or where to express his acknowledgments, 
 finding they were due in every corner. He had just left one society — had been as kindly received in 
 another — and now, having come to a third, he was overwhelmed. These congratulatory observations 
 of his friends were highly gratifying to him, and he hoped not altogether because of that partiality with 
 which they were pleased to regard him. (Loud cheering.) He hoped that his sojourn here for many 
 years had impressed them generally with feelings of confidence and esteem. (Loud cheers.) It was 
 now almost half a century that he had been amongst them. If he returned to former years, or if he 
 looked around him, he could only trace the one common current of kindly feeling for the House of 
 Hamilton which meandered all along the Clyde — which had not stopped, but borne its course to his 
 very door, for which he expressed his gratitude to his friends and neighbours. (Tremendous cheering.) 
 
27 
 
 He had to-day received other friends from distant parts; and, in particular, the kind manifestations 
 of attachment of those from the island of Arran would not be forgotten. There were other parts of the 
 country also to which he wished to express his gratitude, and particularly to those gentlemen and 
 tenantry that had come from his estates in the Counties of Linlithgow and Stirling ; and he was 
 proud to say, that from the banks of the Forth a spontaneous feeling had brought his friends this day 
 to join their congratulations. Those who had come from the island of Arran would tell them that 
 they would carry the recollections of this day from cliff to cliff; and that had been the sentiment that 
 the winds had blown across the ocean but a re-echo of the kindness and affection that had pervaded the 
 whole island. (Loud cheers.) Meeting them here with those feelings, he might impose too lengthy 
 a tribute upon their kindness. He would limit his observations, however, and, by so doing, evince the 
 sincerity of his heart and those feelings which he bore to all of them who were more nearly connected 
 with him. Whether he looked to those who were tied to him by feudal tenure, or those who lived on 
 the lands which heaven had placed in his hands, he hoped that the one would find in him always a great 
 and proper sense of his duty as adapted to the times, and the other an anxious wish to do justice 
 to them — to bear in common with them the ills that might happen, and to carry or follow the vicissi- 
 tudes that might take place, with one regular and uneven course — to be a participator in their feel- 
 ings, wishes, difficulties, and if there were advantages, to participate in them; and if the advantages 
 did not preponderate, let the fault be their own. His Grace concluded amidst rapturous cheering, 
 by repeating the sentiment, “ Happy to meet, sorry to part, and always happy to meet again.” 
 
 The Marquis of Douglas next gave — “ Sir N. M‘Donald Lockhart and the Yeomanry of Lanark- 
 shire,” in a number of highly eulogistic remarks. 
 
 The Marquis next gave “ The tenantry of Scotland,” which was acknowledged by Mr. Forrest of 
 Treesbank. 
 
 The health of “ The Croupier,” and “ Sherifif Alison and the Magistrates of the County,” were 
 next given amid cheers, and the company broke up, seemingly highly satisfied with the whole day’s 
 proceedings. 
 
 DINNER IN THE ASSEMBLY BOOM. 
 
 Sir Norman Macdonald Lockhart, Bart, was Chairman, and Captain Lockhart, of Milton-Lockhart, 
 M.P., Croupier. The room was filled with the Lanarkshire Yeomanry Cavalry, numbering about 
 200 strong. Sir Norman was supported by Robert Monteith, Esq., Younger of Carstairs, Colonel 
 Richardson, and other distinguished gentlemen. Toasts similar to those given at the Riding School 
 and Pavilion (prefaced by appropriate speeches) were proposed and drank with the greatest possible 
 enthusiasm ; and nothing could exceed the exultation and delight with which the gallant corps received 
 the visit of the Princess Marie, the Duke, Duchess, Marquis, and Countess of Lincoln, when they 
 entered the gallery of the room. 
 
 The Chairman then proposed, in an eloquent speech, “ The welcome and health of the Princess 
 Marchioness,” which was drank by the company, with one foot standing on the table, in the most 
 rapturous manner. After which the Duke returned thanks, in an exceedingly graceful and suitable 
 style, for the compliment paid to the illustrious Lady, now become a near relation and dear member of 
 his family. His Grace expressed his great satisfaction on the opportunity now afibrded him of address- 
 ing Sir Norman Macdonald Lockhart, the Commandant, the other Officers, and the members of the 
 
28 
 
 Corps, and of personally renewing his thanks to them in his capacity of Lord Lieutenant of the County, 
 for their active, patient, and unremitting services, in aid of the civil magistrates and constituted 
 authorities, for many weeks, upwards of a year ago, when the disturbed state of the mining districts of 
 Lanarkshire required protection; and that at a time too when Her Majesty was in Scotland, and nearly 
 the whole of the regular forces had been called out of the county to attend upon her person, which 
 forces could not have been spared unless the Yeomanry Cavalry had supplied their places. Although 
 it was then the busy season of the harvest, and many of them were required on their own farms, he 
 could bear witness that they remained at their quarters, all the time they were wanted, without a 
 murmur, and cheerfully did their duty, — and he could not help expressing his deep obligation on the 
 present occasion for their volunteering, and sacrificing so excellent an harvest-day, to the promotion of 
 the pleasure which was afforded to himself, and the other members of his family by their presence. 
 
 The joy and hilarity of this party was kept up till about half-past six, when they departed in the 
 greatest order and regularity, after a day’s pretty severe service and fatigue, considering the distance 
 which many of them had to come to Hamilton in very hot and sultry weather. 
 
 DINNER IN THE TENNIS COURT. 
 
 On this joyous occasion the Tennis Court was appropriated for the aecommodation of his Grace’s 
 tenants and gentlemen connected with the family from Avondale. 'William Gebbie, Esq., of Hallburn, 
 acted as chairman, and James Couts Crawford, Esq., of Overton, as croupier. After the usual loyal 
 toasts were given. 
 
 The Chairman said, — I respectfully call on the assembly to fill a bumper, and when I announce 
 the noble individual to whom it is to be dedicated, I know it will meet with a warm and enthusiastic 
 response from every bosom present. I beg to propose the health of his Grace the Duke of Hamilton 
 and Brandon. (Loud and rapturous cheers.) To the numerous tenantry on his Avondale estate, all 
 present will bear witness that he has always acted with parental care and solicitude for their prosperity 
 and happiness. The best evidence of this is the highly respectable appearance they have this day been 
 able to make, unsurpassed by any company on the field. The Avondale Greys will long be remembered 
 as kindred to our national troop, and not the most unpleasant object in the procession. The gentlemen 
 in this parish would also gladly bear witness, not simply to his Grace’s courtesy and urbanity of manner, 
 but also to his anxious desire to grant them every request, if at all within reasonable bounds. Indeed, 
 as known to all, he often sacrificed his own patrimonial interests, rather than that those who were con- 
 nected with him by the tenure of their properties should be put to trouble or inconvenience. At this 
 moment nearly the whole of the property in Avondale, held under his Grace as over lord, was in non- 
 entry, or liable to pay a fine of a year’s rent ; and in all my experience in the district, which has now been 
 considerable, I never knew his Grace demand a single casualty. This was an example worthy of fol- 
 lowing, and to other landed proprietors I would say, “ go and do likewise,” as these fines and penalties 
 on property are a grievous burden, and the remnant of a darker age. As the first peer in this our 
 ancient kingdom, he has thus exhibited a noble pattern, and as we had all experienced his kindness and 
 beneficence, I beg leave to propose his health with all the honours. His Grace’s health was drank with 
 deafening applause. 
 
 After a short time, the Chairman said, — Having pledged our noble and worthy landlord, we are 
 now bound to remember his amiable and accomplished Duchess. I crave therefore that you fill your 
 
29 
 
 glasses brimful to her health, whilst we rejoice to see her as youthful and beautiful as ever. Her health 
 was drank amid long and repeated cheers. 
 
 The Chairman then stated, that having now paid their respects to the parents out of regard to age, 
 as they all would anticipate, they had arrived at what might be called the toast of the evening — The 
 Marquis and Marchioness of Douglas. The announcement was received with every demonstration of 
 joy. After it had subsided, the Chairman proceeded — I am sure you, and I, and all of us rejoice in 
 the illustrions connexion which the noble Marquis has formed. Of all the places on earth, Germany is 
 the very place where we could have wished the representative of the head of the house we acknowledge, 
 to have looked for a bride. It was there that religious freedom first dawned, and where many of our 
 forefathers, when persecuted at home for that Protestantism which we all hold dear, found an asylum. 
 Our banner of to-day (Drumclog) proves what our sires dared — to secure freedom of worship. Whilst 
 we cherish their memories, let us rejoice that our Chieftain has chosen a bride from the fountain-head. 
 We certainly are not indifierent to her high and illustrious connexions, linked as she is with most of 
 the crowned heads in Europe, but we esteem it more estimable far, that the house from which she has 
 sprung, and the character we have heard of her education and conduct, lead us sincerely to believe that 
 she is virtuous and good. Like every other excellent female, her conduct and character are of ines- 
 timable value to the nation at large. A popular author has said, “ Give me the making of the songs of 
 a country, and I will give you the making of the laws.” He might have said, “ Give me the education 
 of the females of a country, and make the songs and laws what you please.” It is this that gives the 
 impress to a nation’s character : more is learned from the mother at the domestic hearth than is ever 
 afterwards learned. Let us rejoice, therefore, that the noble Marquis, to exalted rank, has been so 
 fortunate and prudent as to unite in the choice of his bride as eminently goodness and virtue. (Long 
 continued cheering.) And now for the happy husband, God bless him ! and he alone can bless him. I 
 am sure there is only one universal feeling of respect and esteem animates the breast of every individual 
 present towards the noble Marquis in this the day of his great rejoicing : may every earthly blessedness 
 attend him, — may he cherish the jewel entrusted to his care with devotion and affection. Let him 
 never forget that the bonniest flower on the banks of the Clyde was once a sweet bud on the banks of 
 the Khine. Without detaining you longer, I beg to propose the happy pair, “ The Marquis and Mar- 
 chioness of Douglas,” which was received and drank with rapturous acclamation. 
 
 It is unnecessary to repeat the other toasts, which were similar to those given in the other 
 assemblies. 
 
 DINNER IN THE COUNTY HALL OF HAMILTON. 
 
 Nearly 300 gentlemen sat down to an excellent dinner in the County Hall — Provost Bryson in 
 the Chair, Alexander Graham, Esq. of Capilly, Croupier. After the usual patriotic and loyal toasts 
 were drank, the Chairman called for a brimming bumper, and in appropriate terms proposed the toast 
 of the day — “ The health of the Most Noble the Marquis of Douglas and the Princess Marie.” He 
 hailed with delight the appearance of the noble Marquis and his Royal bride amongst them to-day, 
 and earnestly hoped that they would long be spared to each other, and enjoy all the happiness and 
 comfort which Heaven could shower upon them. The toast was enthusiastically received, and drank 
 with three times three, and one cheer more, the whole company standing on their seats, with one foot 
 on the table. 
 
 E 
 
30 
 
 Alexander Graham, Esq., the Croupier, next proposed the health of their Graces, “ The Duke 
 and Duchess of Hamilton.” He said that he need not remind this company, that in the course of 
 nature, were it not for their Graces the Duke and Duchess of Hamilton, they could not have been 
 here this day, on such a joyous and memorable occasion, and enjoying the bounties of their hospitality. 
 He need not tell them of the esteem and affection with which the house of Hamilton is regarded 
 throughout Scotland, and more especially by the inhabitants of Lanarkshire, not only because of the 
 prominent place which they hold in the most important events in the history of the country, but chiefly 
 in consequence of their untiring beneficence, dispensing with a liberal hand of their abundance, 
 administering to the wants of the poor and needy, and thus causing many a heart to sing with joy. 
 He had only to point to the interesting and joyous event of this day, as an evidence of the high esteem 
 in which the house of Hamilton was held in this County — no sooner was it known that the noble Marquis 
 and his fair Princess were expected at their princely home, than as with one heart and soul the whole 
 County spontaneously offered their services to give them a right hearty Scottish welcome. He was 
 delighted with the scene this day witnessed — they had received a welcome such as Scotia’s sons 
 delighted to give to them they felt proud to honour. Mr. Graham concluded a speech replete with 
 humour, with proposing the health of their Graces the Duke and Duchess of Hamilton, amidst 
 deafening cheers. 
 
 Thomas Anderson, Esq., then proposed the health of “ Lord and Lady Lincoln.” He remarked, 
 the joyous occasion of the present meeting reminded many now around him of a similar event nearly 
 ten years ago, when Lady Susan left the Palace as the Countess of Lincoln, and which could only be 
 exceeded, if possible, by the rejoicings of this day, an event which diffused universal happiness, and he 
 trusted would be followed with much good. The toast was drunk with all the honours. 
 
 Provost Turnbull, of Anderston, proposed “ Lord and Lady Dunmore.” 
 
 The Croupier gave, “ Her Royal Highness the Grand Duchess of Baden.” If he felt at a loss in 
 what terms to speak of the last toast he had the honour to propose, he felt more so on the present. He 
 knew not personally the distinguished individual whose health he now called upon them to pledge in 
 an overflowing bumper, but he thought himself warranted to say that he was better able to speak of 
 that royal Lady than any person now present. He had this day seen the Princess Marie, and if he 
 might judge of the mother from the daughter, he could not speak of the Grand Duchess in too excellent 
 terms. He had also travelled along the banks of the Rhine, and from every mouth nothing was heard 
 but the voice of praise in commendation of the royal mother of the Princess, Marchioness of Douglas. 
 The toast was enthusiastically received by all standing, and one cheer more for her Royal Highness. 
 
 The next toast proposed was the health of “ Robert Brown, Esq.” Mr. Graham spoke at length 
 of the first-rate business habits of Mr. Brown, — pronounced a well-merited eulogium on his judgment, 
 activity, and unwearied solicitude to promote the comfort and happiness of the community at large, 
 and of the excellent arrangements he had this day made, which added so much to the enjo 3 Tnent of 
 the many thousands who had come forth to witness the memorable event. 
 
 A number of other toasts were afterwards proposed, and the company broke up about seven o’clock, 
 highly delighted with the entertainments of the evening. 
 
 The trades and societies, joined with the Odd-Fellows, who truly made a splendid appearance, dined 
 at Mr. Buchan’s Seminary Halls, to the number of about 600. Mr. Simpson occupied the Chair in the 
 
31 
 
 lower hall, and Mr. Bell, interim treasurer, acted as Croupier. Mr. Wingfield, the secretary, filled the 
 Chair in the upper hall, and Mr. Ainslie officiated as Croupier. After an excellent dinner the usual 
 patriotic and loyal toasts were given. Then came health, long life, and happiness to the Most Noble the 
 Marquis of Douglas and his princely Marchioness, which was prefaced by the several chairmen with 
 appropriate and suitable remarks on the auspicious and august event, and drank with three times three, 
 and one cheer more, the walls of each hall reverberating with deafening acclamations. 
 
 The following toasts were then given, and drank with great applause : — The Duke and Duchess 
 of Hamilton; the Earl and Countess of Lincoln; the Dunmore Family; his Grace’s Factor, Mr. 
 Brown ; his Grace’s Tenantry, and Speed the Plough ; the Provost and Magistrates of Hamilton ; the 
 neighbouring Gentlemen, who assisted in the festivities; the Town and Trade of Hamilton; the 
 Benefit Societies of the Burgh ; with a variety of other toasts, were successively drank, and enthusias- 
 tically responded to, while the bands played appropriate airs to each toast. 
 
 The dinner did credit to Mr. James Hamilton, innkeeper, while mirth, song, and sentiment 
 went their orderly and exhilarating rounds, every countenance beamed pleasure, satisfaction, and 
 delight ; and all parted highly gratified, craving blessings to descend upon the ancient and princely House 
 of Hamilton. 
 
 The Masons, little short of 200, dined in their own lodges, and kept up their hilarity till a late 
 
 hour. 
 
 DINNER TO THE TRADESMEN, &C. 
 
 When chronicling the magnificent fete at Hamilton on the 14th instant, in honour of the arrival 
 of the Marquis and Marchioness of Douglas, there is one circumstance that should not in justice be 
 forgotten, for it marks in the most unequivocal manner the consideration and kindness with which his 
 Grace the Duke of Hamilton treats all those who are his servants and dependants. In the hurry and 
 bustle of such a time, it might have been judged expedient to have delayed any treat — if such were 
 resolved to be given to them, to a more convenient season. His Grace, however, acted otherwise; for 
 while he was most solicitous that the gentry, tenantry, and others, not so immediately depending on his 
 favour and countenance, should receive every attention and comfort on this memorable occasion, he was 
 not unmindful of those who had perhaps few influential friends to advocate their cause, and accordingly 
 the following masters or overseers, with about 200 of their men, at present in his Grace’s employment, 
 were entertained to a handsome and abundant dinner, with plenty of punch, &c. after it. 
 
 Mr. Wilkie, master of the joiners. Chairman. Mr. Harvie, master of the stone masons. Croupier. 
 Stewards, — Messrs. Aitchison and Litster, forresters, Mr. Ford, manager of the hedging department, 
 Mr. W. Kirkland, overseer of the labourers in the parks, and Mr. Sewars, general contractor. 
 
 In the hall where these persons were assembled, it was delightful to witness the harmony and 
 happiness that prevailed. After dinner Colonel Richardson, Mr. Brown, the Duke’s agent, and other 
 gentlemen came in, and as soon as supplied with glasses and liquor, the Colonel, in a neat, appropriate, 
 and pithy speech, proposed the health of his Grace the Duke of Hamilton, as the best and kindest of 
 masters, and well worthy of the gratitude and veneration of the company assembled. It is altogether 
 unnecessary to say that the Duke’s health was drunk with the greatest enthusiasm. 
 
 Mr. Brown then proposed the health of the company assembled, and spoke in the follow- 
 ing terms : — Mr. Chairman, and friends, — This is an occasion such as you have never seen before, 
 
32 
 
 and such as you will never see again. The Marquis of Douglas’s first return to the home of his 
 ancestors as a married man ; and you will rejoice to see that he has brought with him a lady, in 
 all respects worthy of your highest respect and veneration — a lady of the highest rank, and what is 
 more than rank, of the highest character. (Cheers.) Most of you have been for a number of years in 
 the employment of the Duke of Hamilton, and you know that he has been a kind and indulgent master 
 to us all. I am glad to say that there is not one of you, so far as has come under my observation, who 
 has not endeavoured to perform his duty. The advantages which you have all enjoyed, and which, I 
 am sure, you all appreciate, of living in the emplojrment, and under the protection of a nobleman who 
 uniformly shows such kindness and attention, I may say parental attention, to every one of his 
 dependants and servants, you will rejoice to see are likely to be perpetuated through this auspicious 
 union ; and I hope that you all may be continued for many many years in the employment of your 
 kind and indulgent master, or in that of those who, in the course of Providence, may follow after him. 
 The Hamilton family have been here for the last six hundred years, and I am sure you all join with 
 me, in wishing that they may still be here when other six hundred years have rolled away, retaining 
 the high character they have hitherto possessed. Kings of the earth may die, the succession of crowns 
 may change, but so far as your individual interests and that of your children are concerned, the per- 
 manent continuance of the noble Family under whom you now live, is of far more consequence. I trust 
 that every renewed instance of the kindness of his Grace and the other noble members of his family, 
 towards you, will only tend to rivet more firmly the tie which exists betwixt you, and will induce 
 you to continue to discharge your respective duties towards them as zealously and as faithfully as you 
 have hitherto done, feeling it to be a matter of conscience with you, like honest men, to do so, even 
 although you may not be always under the eye of a superintendent; continuing sober, industrious, 
 steady, and saving; and I now appeal to that monitor (conscience) seated in the breast of every one 
 of you, as the best guide of your future conduct. 
 
 Afterwards, the health of the Duchess of Hamilton, proposed by Mr. Robert Graham — that of 
 the Princess Marie, Marchioness of Douglas, by Mr. Rutherford, Edinburgh — and of the Marquis of 
 Douglas, by Mr. Paterson, Arran — were all drunk with great applause. 
 
 The plentiful provision for the dinners which had been given at the palace on the 14th instant, 
 aflForded his Grace, after the other entertainments were over, the means of giving an abundant meal to 
 upwards of two thousand of the poorer class of the inhabitants of Hamilton, — thus proving that his 
 Grace’s attention and kindness towards them were equal to that shown to those who had been pre- 
 viously entertained. 
 
 Besides, his miners, to the number of about 650, were also entertained by his Grace’s orders; and 
 1 6 hogsheads of excellent porter, with abundance of bread and cheese, were distributed in the town of 
 Hamilton. 
 
 In the following eulogium the public agreed most unanimously: — 
 
 Robert Brown, Esq., the confidential agent and friend of the Duke of Hamilton, to whom his 
 Grace entrusted the entire direction of this truly magnificent fete, well deserved and fulfilled the trust 
 reposed in him. We heard no complaint as to any of the arrangements: his comprehensive mind not 
 only formed but personally attended to the accommodation for upwards of 2800 guests who dined at 
 
33 
 
 the various tables. So unwearied were his exertions that he superintended the admission of every 
 individual, consequently no uninvited person could enter to disturb the order which happily prevailed 
 from first to last. He also planned the procession, consisting of such a vast number of persons; and so 
 minute were his orders, that the numerous vassals and tenantry were assembled in various places on the 
 line of march under the banners on which was inscribed the several districts to which each person 
 belonged. Mr. Brown’s courtesy to the gentry, and good humour to the tenantry, was the deserved 
 theme of universal gratitude and admiration. 
 
 The town of Hamilton, from its contiguity to the Palace, was the grand centre of the rejoicings, 
 and the whole of the inhabitants seemed to vie with each other in their anxiety to contribute to the 
 eclat of the festive occasion. The Magistrates with becoming spirit took the lead, and issued a procla- 
 mation recommending to the people to suspend business for the day, to close their shops, and to turn out 
 in their best attire. The Magistrates strengthened the effect of their precepts by their own example, 
 having made every requisite provision for the order and comfort of the infiux of strangers who crowded 
 the town, and prepared themselves for taking a part in the pageant suitable to the dignity of their 
 office. 
 
 A part of the bill of fare for this immense and princely banquet, was seven head of white Cale- 
 donian cattle, and seven fat bucks, with a plentiful supply of other venison — oceans of wine, punch, 
 and more potent liquor; yet no accident of the slightest nature occurred, and all was kindness, courtesy, 
 and joy. 
 

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