Eerily still this morning. Not a sound to be heard. Even the owls are quiet. 80 mph winds forecast for later today. This must be the proverbial calm before the storm.We've closed all the shutters on the sides of the house that will face the gales.The PON duo found the opening and latching of windows to be wildly exciting. Bob bounding from one room to an other, tail 'thwack,thwack, thwacking' against doors and furniture.
We're back from the cafe under the arcades in time to walk along the top of the ridge and watch the sunrise turn the mountain snows red. The days suddenly lengthening now. Light by seven thirty. Bob and Sophie stop to study a young male calf unconcernedly wallowing in a pond. The young calf , and his protective mother, stare back.
Things I learnt today. The local paper says an 83 year old flamingo has died in Adelaide zoo. The longevity of some species of animals a surprise.
The date of Mary Queen of Scots execution in 1587 just passed. I glance at her funeral picture on an upstairs wall . After the execution, when the embalmers were stripping her body, they found a small terrier curled up between her clasped hands and her skirts. The dog would not be moved . It alone remained loyal to its mistress . Dog owners will find something recognizably charming in that story.
15 comments:
The peeps were just discussing Scotland's possible independence this morning--whether there'll be a James VII--at the river. Didn't know about Mary's loyal little dog. How sad....
XXXOOO Daisy, Bella & Roxy
I'd never heard the story about Mary Queen of Scots' terrier. How very touching.I don't suppose history records what happened to the wee fellow.
Of course………as soon as I read your words, ANGUS, I thought to myself: "Of course, it must be a Scottish Terrier!" I was thrilled to find out,
it indeed was a Scottie! You can read the account in the book authored by Jackie French, Harper Collins, Australia: THE DOG WHO LOVED A QUEEN. She tells the tale, all based on true historical account, of Folly - the loyal Scottie of Mary Queen of Scots. The author goes on to say in an interview that many thought the loyal dog to be a Skye Terrier - but she assures that the breed did not exist at the time. All of us who have the
privilege of sharing our lives with a Scottie surely understands their unique and undying loyalty. This book tells all about it, from Folly's point of view and his narrative. Added bonus - he was particularly fond of roasted turkey legs and quinces! Regards from the Westcoast of Canada……with my own Scottish Terrier sitting at my feet.
The story of that little dog stayed with me since first I heard it. I also read that it pined away after her passing, I don't know if that is fact, but has always moved me.
x
I didn't know about Mary Queen of Scots little dog...how incredibly touching. I certainly would have recalled that story if I had read that in a History lesson at school.
What a beautiful portrait, Angus. I'd forgotten the story about the little dog. I've long thought that Mary, Queen of Scots was one of the most fascinating monarchs of the 16th century.
I've never heard that story about the little dog, but how sweet and charming!
I don't suppose I could hide a rottweiler in my skirts...
The flamingo was blind and led it food by it's flamingo companion. It was attacked by some person a few years back and was severely injured but survived.
What the hell is wrong with people!
Read the flamingo's story. His name is Greater. I don't know how to do links but I know you will look it up.
Wouldn't it be hard to hide a Scottie unless she was quite a large person?
Even though I'm a cat lady, I have a very soft spot for Scotties. And most specially PONS.
oh. this post is poignant and beautiful in so many ways.
xo
I must go to the library and get this book. I too have a little Scottie dog and know of his loyalty. He almost has to be pried off me --- my constant companion - love of my life. . . I love the story of this little dog. Thank you. Teddy (Scottie boy) and I read of the PONs adventures each morning from Kansas City. Judi
I would fear death less with my beloved dog in my hands...
A beautiful truth.
How true. damn this blog makes me cry more than it should.
With all the turmoil I have had for the past 12 months I read somewhere that you should have a "constant". It can be a friend or a pet, but they have to be there for you to feel safe with. I think Poppy has fitted the role superbly and been a source of pleasure, strength and a reminder that I can love and be loved. If it involved being executed I would feel stronger indeed with her there. Just unimaginably sad but comforting to know she had that choice.
you moved me... http://fourpawsandwhiskers.blogspot.co.nz/2014/02/mary-queen-of-scots-and-other-musings.html
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