We had some days ago engaged the Campbell-town vessel to carry us to
Mull, from the harbour where she lay. The morning was fine, and the
wind fair and moderate; so we hoped at length to get away.
Mrs M'Sweyn, who officiated as our landlady here, had never been on
the main land. On hearing this, Dr Johnson said to me, before her,
'That is rather being behind-hand with life. I would at least go and
see Glenelg.' BOSWELL. 'You yourself, sir, have never seen, till now,
any thing but your native island.' JOHNSON. 'But, sir, by seeing
London, I have seen as much of life as the world can shew.' BOSWELL.
'You have not seen Pekin.' JOHNSON. 'What is Pekin? Ten thousand
Londoners would DRIVE all the people of Pekin: they would drive them
like deer.'
We set out about eleven for the harbour; but, before we reached it, so
violent a storm came on, that we were obliged again to take shelter in
the house of Captain M'Lean, where we dined, and passed the night.