Gordon book

74 The Gordon Book
was published in 1826. This work is an exhaustive historical and
topographical account of North Britain, from the most ancient to
recent times. Dr. ^Eneas Mackay, while admitting that the Cale-
donia has not stood the test of time, and that it is below the standard
of Camden's "Britannia," says that "to have composed what is,
though never completed, the fullest account of the antiquities of a
nation which has specially cultivated that department of history, is a
merit not to be despised." There is no doubt that subsequent writers
have borrowed from Chalmers without acknowledging their obligations.
In closing this brief memoir, the hope is expressed that some
worthy son of Fochabers may be found who is desirous of presenting,
as a valuable addition to the library of the Institute, a copy of his
books, the Caledonia in particular.
John W. Webster.
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