Summer at the Lake of Monteith

1 66 The Lake of Monteith.
THE STIRLINGS OF GARDEN.
In every country and in every district there are certain
families of distinction — those grand old landmarks of so-
ciety that more or less adorn every country. In times of
war and trouble, the clansmen and followers would gather
around them for advice, to resent an insult or to repel an
invader; and in times of "peace and plenty," headed by their
chief, they would assemble round the festive board and social
cup, and there cement the bond of union and friendship
between the ruled and those that rule. Now, there is no
nation in the world more proverbial for these adornments
than dear old Scotland, and no district has produced more
families of distinction than Stirlingshire; while there is no
family in the county more remarkable for their endearing
social natures, sterling worth, and love of country, than the
ancient family of Garden.
It may be said this branch of the Stirlings has not pro-
duced any members distinguished in history, or that will
be known to posterity; but for hundreds of years the family
has been remarkable, as possessing a stern integrity and
honesty of purpose, and an attachment to the institutions
of the country rarely to be met with; and has at least pro-
duced two members of singular ability -and distinction;