d his example. In every corner of
Christendom some form of kelpie, sprite, troll, gnome, imp, or demon
has a place in the mind of the people, much the same as in Pagan
times.

Those who have turned their attention to archaeology are in a position
to corroborate what is here advanced. No doubt, modern superstition,
in its various forms, is the result of ancient delusion in regard to
religion and moral rectitude. To overlook or neglect the prescribed
formula in regard to blessing and cursing, was certain to bring its
own punishment. Superstition is believed in by persons accounted
neither irreligious nor desperately profane. Church dignitaries, once
foremost in the persecution of reputed witches, found it necessary to
change their front. Everything bordering on witchcraft, devil worship,
or such like, met with ecclesiastical censure. Let the inhabitants of
Applecross say why they and their forefathers sacrificed to St.
Mourie, their patron saint, at certain seasons; and let the Synod of
Glenelg and the Presbytery of Lochcarron say why they considered it
necessary to forbid the people resorting to the island Innis Maree on
25th August. And let those reverend bodies say whether certain stones
are not consulted as to future events--whether oblations are not left
on hills--and whether a species of adoration is not paid to wells.

Why is the mountain ash, or rowan tree, seen growing in almost every
garden, when not another tree adorns the landscape or shelters the
family dwelling? Why are the caudal appendages of the cottar's cow and
calf adorned with red thread? and wherefore are horse-shoes nailed to
stable-doors, ships' masts, and buried under thresholds? What parish
or district has not its haunted house and "white lady?" In what
quarter do not the young fear to pass ruined castles after sundown?
And have we not everywhere a confessed belief in lucky and unlucky
times and circumstances, and admitted presentiments of evil?

The tinker's curse and the gipsy's warning are prophetically regarded.
In the north of Scotland there is a class of lay preachers, or
catechists, known as the "Men," who lay claim to prophetic talent;
yea, there are among them enthusiasts, who pretend they possess keys
equal in efficacy to those of St. Peter. At the seaside, among the
sailors and fishermen, strong indications of superstition are
observable. Buyers and sellers, especially cattle dealers and
hucksters, daily evince their adherence to the