Ossian Collection > Report of the Committee of the Highland Society of Scotland, appointed to inquire into the nature and authenticity of the poems of Ossian

92 LETTERS TO MR. MACKENZIE.
The refinement of manners in Ossian's poems is, as you
observe, a well known objection against this authenticity-;.
But let our history be investigated, and I am satisfied this
objection will be done away. What if we shall produce
passages purely historical, and undeniably mere than 1000
years old, that are no less refined and delicate ? Take the
first instance that occurs to my memory, and I think it
would not disgrace even the man of feeling in the 18th
century : — " See that crane coming towards our shore, in
its flight over from Ireland. It is quite spent, and obliged
to alight in the water. Run, take up the poor bird, bring
it to the house, feed it, and take care of it for three day?,
till it be sufficiently refreshed, and able to return to its na-
tive land ; and for thy kindness and hospitali:y, my son,
God will bless thee." I quote from memory, and do not
pretend to have the exact rendering of the words, but I am
sure I have the exact rendering of the sentiment. Investi-
gate our history, and it will give credibility to our poetry,
in more respects than in delicacy of sentiment. We have
but lately emerged from a long night of barbarism ; but
previous to that night, there existed, as there is much rea-
son to believe, a period of considerable light and refine-
ment. I have made some efforts, not as yet very success-
fully, to penetrate the darkness in which Highland history
is involved. I hope more will be done by those who have;
more opportunity ; and that the Highland Society will at-
tend to the ancient history, as well as to the ancient poetry,
of the Highlands. I am, with respect and esteem,
Sir,
Your most humble servant,
John Smith.
I expect soon a transcript of a large and very ancient
Gaelic MS. in which I am told there are " many interest-;
ing particulars respecting the government, arts, arms, war-