THE tale of the "Highland Widow" was included in the first series of the
"Chronicles of the Canongate." It appeared in November 1827, subsequent
to the breaking up of Constable's publishing house.
In the accompanying illustration is presented the striking scene where
Hamish Bean Mac Tavish was urged by his mother to fire upon the military
party who sought to apprehend him. It was evening; the gigantic shadows
of the mountains streamed in darkness towards the east, while their
western peaks were still glowing with crimson and gold. From the road
which wound round Ben Cruachan, five Highland soldiers were fully
visible at the door of the bothy. One walked a little before the others;
this was Serjeant Cameron, who called out, "Hamish Bean Mac Tavish, lay
down your arms and surrender!" At the door of the bothy Hamish stood
like a statue holding his firelock, while his mother standing behind
him, and almost driven to frenzy by the violence of her passions,
reproached him for want of resolution and faintness of heart. Her words
increased the bitter gall which was arising in his spirit, as he saw his
late comrades making towards him like hounds towards the stag at bay.
"The scourge, the scourge, my son, beware the scourge," whispered the
mother. It was enough. Hamish fired his piece, and Serjeant Cameron
dropped dead.