charms of Scotland, and its
connexion with eminent individuals, and memorable events of love, war, and
chivalric renown, all combine to render a Scottish Road Book attractive and
interesting; but the editor prudently observes, that "long descriptions of
scenery, except in some few cases, have not been introduced, as they are
totally inadequate to convey to the reader any definite idea of the
beauties they attempt to portray." Plans of Pleasure Tours are likewise
appended, together with a useful Appendix; and, what is indispensable in a
work of this description, a good Index, is added.

As might be expected, nearly every page bears the record of some spot
consecrated by hoar antiquity, or in the inspirations of olden or modern
genius. Sir Walter Scott has probably monopolized every inch of his native
country, and invested each memorable spot with the enchantment of his pen;
so that little more than reference is necessary to enable the tourist to
identify such sites as the novelist has not distinguished in his writings
by actual name. Such information is requisite, for as we are reminded by
Kett, who observes, "We are told of a noble Roman, who could recollect all
the articles that had been purchased at an auction, and the names of the
several buyers. The memory of our travellers ought to be of equal capacity
and retentiveness, considering the short time they allow themselves for the
inspection of curiosities." As books and broad-cloth are now bought by the
pattern, we cannot do better than substantiate what we have said by a few
quotations from the _Road Book of Scotland_:--

_Falkirk._

The view from the hill of Falkirk, immediately behind the town, is
remarkably extensive, varied, and beautiful. Hence, the spectator may
behold the Ochil Hills, forming part of the ridge which extends from the
German Ocean to the banks of the Clyde; and through an opening in the chain
for the passage of the Forth, may discover, in fine weather, several
isolated rocks, on the highest of which stands Stirling Castle. Beyond,
over the Vale of Monteith, appear the Grampian Hills, including the
conical-shaped summit of Benledi, as well as Benvoirlich; and further to
the west, the lofty Benlomond. To the north are seen the rich valley of the
Carse, the Forth, with the towns of Culross, Kincardine, Clackmannan, and
Alloa, on the opposite shore, and the country reaching to the foot of the
Ochils. To the north also may be seen the village of