Ossian Collection > Journey to the western islands of Scotland

WESTERN ISLANDS, &c. 307
Were not fenfibly miffed, as the argument
fuppofes, muft have gone either In lefs num-
ber, or in a manner lefs detrimental, than
at prefent; becaufe formerly there was no
complaint. Thofe who then left the coun-
try were generally the idle dependants on
overburdened families, or men who had no
property ; and therefore carried away only
themfelves. In the prefent eagernefs of
emigration, families, and almoft^ commu-
nities, go away together. Thofe who were
confidered as profperous and wealthy fell
their flock and carry away the money.
Once none went away but the ufelefs and
poor; in fome parts there is now reafon
to fear, that none will flay but thofe who
are too poor to remove themfelves, and too
ufelefs to be removed at the cofl of others.
Of antiquity there is not more know-
ledge in Col than in other places; but
every where fomething may be gleaned.
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