Series 4 > Papers on Sutherland Estate Management 1802-1816 > Volume 9

101
1807-1811
point out freely whatever measures appear most likely to promote
your Lordships laudable views for the prosperity of Sutherland.
I have with Mr Sellar returned from that quarter after devoting
eight days to such matters about Culmaily as required our immedi¬
ate attention. I have seen Culgower, Achavandra and its adjacent
moors, the moor of Balblair, which we found unfit for cultivation
although well adapted for planting. We went up Strathfleet which
for beauty of scenery and fertility of soil exceeded our most
sanguine expectations. Indeed before seeing Sutherland I had not
conceived the most favorable Idea of its fertility but my opinion is
completely changed both as to soil and climate and I am sure if
the present Inhabitants were mixed with strangers of agricultural
and manufacturing skill all properly led on Sutherland might soon
compete with any of the Northern districts.
I was aided by my Brother in a minute survey of Kilgower and
Wester Garty. After that mature consideration which a matter of
such importance merits we cannot recommend it as suited to your
Lordships views for a Fishing and agricultural Village. The Coast
is open, to build a Harbour woud be attended with an improper
waste of money, and I do not know that the necessary lodging
ground for Bait can be found. The building situation is too elevated
and at too great a distance from the shore. For Labourers the soil
is too good. The Country is narrow and without moors fitt for
cultivation on which to extend their industry, nor coud I find
sufficient quantity of building stone. I therefore in a paragraph to a
letter written by Mr Falconer ventured to disuade your Lordship
from embarking with this place.
It seems Achavandra and Knockglass on the South west Bank of
the Little Ferry are out of Lease, they hold out the finest field in
Sutherland for your Lordships exertions and if to these Skelbo
with its waterfall coud be added, Fishing, Manufacturing, and
Agricultural pursuits might all combine, while the improveable
moors behind hold furth a lasting fund for employment to the
people and of emolument to the Estate. At a proper distance from
Dunrobin and to be seen from its windows, open to all travelers
by the great roads to Caithness, Strathfleet, and the Kyle, this place
if once fairly begun and properly nursed for some years woud I
am sure afford your Lordship much satisfaction. The tenants have