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Dougie McLaren

The Story

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An isolated croft in the Scottish Highlands doesn't get many visitors, but tonight was an exception.

If Dougie McLaren was surprised to find two well-dressed strangers on his doorstep he didn't show it. He moved his imposing frame aside and welcomed them in. In soft Highland tones he introduced his wife, Morag, and the four bonny children sat round the supper table. "We're the Robertsons, of New England," said the well-dressed man in response, "on route to the castle of Lord Munro, by Loch Raddy. I'm afraid we're hopelessly lost, although we followed the road signs carefully." "Och that's the last thing you want to do round here," said Dougie gravely. "For legend has it that every night the kelpie, Water Spirits, steal out of the Loch and turn round all the signs! To infuriate the tourists and amuse the locals." With that Dougie winked outrageously at his children who burst into a fit of giggles. "Och, Dougie,

stop your blethering," chided Morag. She smiled warmly at the Robertsons. "You'll stay for supper?" "Thank you, no. We must press on," said Mrs. Robertson. "If you could direct us to the Castle.""Aye, I could," agreed Dougie. "It's nothin' but a wee jaunt from here. But directions are tricky things. I'd best take you there myself!"

Despite their protests Dougie fetched his sporran, hugged his family and ushered the Robertsons outside. A gleaming motor car was parked beside the homely croft. "It's a grand motor you have," said Dougie. "It will be safe here and I'll fetch it to the Castle in the morning." As they climbed into the back of a mud-speckled Land Rover a long-haired collie, named Rascal, jumped into the front beside Dougie. It was the devil of a drive,

Write to me at: Dougie@The-McLaren.com or
Phone from anywhere: +44/1360/550116, Fax: +44/1360/550126