Beauly: Spirit of the Forefathers

A handsome war memorial stands in Beauly town centre, Inverness-shire, upon which is written:

ERECTED

BY THE LOVAT TENANTRY AND FEUARS OF THE AIRD AND FORT AUGUSTUS DISTRICTS TO COMMEMORATE THE RAISING OF THE LOVAT SCOUTS FOR SERVICE IN SOUTH AFRICA BY

SIMON JOSEPH 16TH LORD LOVAT

C.VO C. B. D.S.O WHO DESIRED TO SHEW THAT THE MARTIAL SPIRIT OF THEIR FOREFATHERS

STILL ANIMATES

THE HIGHLANDERS OF TO-DAY AND WHOSE CONFIDENCE WAS JUSTIFIED

BY THE SUCCESS IN THE FIELD

OF THE CALLANT CORPS

WHOSE EXISTENCE WAS DUE

TO HIS LOYALTY AND PATRIOTISM

AD 1905

The emphasis is mine. The ancient highlander was known for his fighting spirit and strong arm; many a lowlander and Sassenach fled at his charge. Yet the Highlands and isles were also once known for their godliness and deep spirituality, too. I pray that these hills shall once again echo to the praises of Almighty God and that the gospel be faithfully preached in its kirks. Christian heritage is a wonderful thing; a Christian heritage spurned and abandoned is a tragedy.