EIGHT MONTHS IN BORNISH
DIARY OF FR JOHN MACCORMICK
Sunday July 23rd 1939: Ordained priest by Bishop McCormack at St Cuthbert’s College,
Ushaw – Dies Dierum (the day of days). Travelled to Glasgow. Stayed at the Ivanhoe
Hotel.
Monday 24th July: Left Renfrew by plane for the Isles. Arrived Benbecula before 12
with Hector (his brother?).
25th July: First Mass at our own little church at Garrynamonie. Church packed to beyond
the door.
Sunday 29th July: Binated (celebrated two Masses) at Daliburgh. Gave blessing and
Benediction.
2nd August: Games day at South Uist. Met Frs Willie Gilies and MacKellaig. Also Fr
Maloney from Bradford and later on S. S. Lochmor I met Fr D Murphy of Salford. Both
Ushavians. Invited to Barra by Mr P Martin (headmaster in Barra ?)
Saturday 5th August: In charge of Bornish for the weekend. First time in the
Confessional (31).
6th August: Binated. Blessing. Rosary and Bendiction.
7th August: Lapaich. Went to Eochar that night with Fr Galbraith.
8th August: All 7 rounds in Eochar. Came south. Met Fr Denis Meeechan at
Lochboisdale.
12th August: Motored to Iochdar.
13th August: High Mass. Dr Meechan deacon, Fr Galbraith sub.
14th August: Crossed the ford to Benbecula.
15th August: The Assumption. Binated at St Mary’s. Came south.
16th August: Came back home.
Sunday 20th August: Binated at Daliburgh and said Rosary and gave Benediction at
Garrynamonie.
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Wednesday 23rd August: Two days holiday in Barra. Stayed in Martin’s and said Mass
at Castlebay.
Friday 25th August: Came back.
Sunday 27th August: Said 10 – clock Mass at Garrynamonie. Went for a sail to Lingay
with Fr Calum Morrison in Nialll Aonghais mhic Niall’s (Campbell) boat. Watched
basking seals and glorious sunset from the sound.
Saturday 2nd September: I took temporary charge of St Mary’s, Bornish. Confessions.
Sunday 3rd September: Two Masses at Bornish. War declared!!! Rosary and
Bendiction. Confessions for Lovats and Camerons.
Monday 4th September: Special Mass and Communion for Territorials. Saw Lovat
Scouts depart with horses from Lochboisdale . Met Sydney MacEwan there.
Tuesday 5th September: Camerons left today. Hay afloat after Sunday night’s frightful
lightning, thunder, and rain.
Wednesday 6th September: Regaining hay from the flood. Made Calum start cutting the
corn.
Thursday 7th September: More progress with the hay and corn.
Saturday 9th September: Confessions at Howbeg
Sunday 10th September: 1st Mass at Howbeg, Preached. 2nd Mass at Bornish. Preached.
Rosary and Benediction in the evening.
Monday 11th September: Fr Duncan (MacLean – Parish Priest of Bornish) arrived
home from St Raphael’s (Nursing Home in Edinburgh).
Sunday 17th September: Mass at 11.30 at Bornish. 1st Baptism at 2pm Peggie MacInnes.
Monday 18th September: Lapaich (sick and housebound) at Howmore and Howbeg.
Tuesday 19th September: 1st Wedding – John Steele and Lizzie Mac ?.
Wednesday 20th September: Lapaich at Snishival and Peninerine.
Thursday 21st September: Visit to Bute Hospital and home.
Friday 22nd September: Visit to Kildonan and Locheynort Schools.
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Saturday 23rd September: Lapaich at Kildonan and Confessions at Howbeg in the
evening.
Sunday 24th September: 1st Mass at Howbeg 10.30am and 2nd Mass at Bornish at 12.
Preached at both. 2nd Baptism – Donald Morrison, Bornish.
Friday 6th October: Frs Galbraith and O’Regan (Ardkenneth and Benbecula) called
after dinner and announced to us that Dr Campbell (parish priest at Daliburgh) was the
new Bishop of Argyll and the Isles. They had heard it broadcast from Athlone the night
before. Frs Galbraith, O’Regan, MacLean, and I went up to Daliburgh to congratulate the
new Bishop. He was in fine fettle and stood up well to a lot of teasing. Various
suggestions were made re motto. O’Regan wanted it to have a Columban ring about it.
Campbell opened his breviary and was confronted with the words ‘In insulis maris
nomen Domini’. To the suggestion ‘what about the mainland’ he replied, ‘Well, Fathers,
My heart is in the Isles. We left it at that.
Fr MacLean and I motored to Lochboisdale where we got a fry of fresh herring from the
‘Ocean Star’. I drove back to Bornish.
Saturday 7th October: Tonight we had a visit from John MacMillan, Glasgow Police.
Detective Bowie, Sergeant MacDonald, and Constable MacDonald are also at home on
short holiday. They were not supposed to cross water in view of war conditions but here
they are and now they are wondering if they can get back on Wednesday night, seeing the
weather has changed. The weather was wonderfully good all during September and most
of the harvest has been gathered. Now it has changed to a gale and the Atlantic has
already shown its winter grin.
Sunday 8th October: Said 11.30 Mass and preached on the Rosary. Today I baptised
Roderick Bowie, Ormiclate, and recited Rosary and gave Benediction in the evening.
Tuesday 10th October: Fr MacLean and I motored to Kildonan (re evacuees) then to
Stoneybridge School and to Locheynort School. We took Miss Beaton home and there
met Mrs Beaton of Kalgoorlie, Australia. Originally from Lewis – she is a convert. I
drove back to Bornish in a raging gale.
Tuesday 24th October: District Council Meeting at Lochboisdale Hotel. Fr MacLean and
I motored to Stoneybridge to take Mr MacIntosh up south.
The Meeting began after 10-o-clock and was broken up for dinner. Present were Dr
Campbell, Fathers MacLean, Galbraith, O’Regan, and self along with Mr MacMillan,
MacIntosh, MacPherson, and MacInnes. Toasts and speeches on behalf of Dr Campbell
(Bishop elect) were given and responded to with much enthusiasm. Dr Campbell
reiterated his regret at leaving the Isles and its beloved people. Though a mainlander he
had come to know them and to love them as next to none other. Their virtues and
simplicity had enchanted him. What faults they had were those of little children.
The Meeting was resumed after an excellent dinner.
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Afterwards Fr MacLean and I called at the Bute Hospital to procure room for Fr Barron
CSSR should he be secured for Daliburgh during Dr Campbell’s absence. Meantime, this
morning a letter arrived from the Vicar Capitular appointing me to temporary charge of
Daliburgh, but as Fr MacLean is still ‘hors de combat’, I fear it will not be possible for
me to leave Bornish. Consequently, Fr MacLean wishes to secure the services of Fr
Barron for Daliburgh parish. Seeing that Fr MacLean, on doctor’s orders, must rest till
New Year, it would look as if I have to serve the equivalent of 4 parishes viz – Howbeg,
Bornish, Daliburgh, and Garrynamonie for some two months if Fr Barron can’t come.
Fiat.
Wednesday 25th October: Severe toothache set in last night. I woke at 2am and didn’t
sleep another wink. At 3 Fr MacLean and I motored to Lochboisdale where I had my
tooth extracted by Mr Luth, the dentist. Much relieved from excruciating pain, I drove
back to Bornish.
Friday 27th October: In the evening I went to Stoneybrige to see Mrs Steele to whom I
had given Viaticum and Exctreme Unction a few days previously. She was in a very
weak condition. They were very glad that I came on the scene at the time. We recited the
Rosary and appropriate Gaelic prayers. Then I had to make for Bornish to give Rosary
and Bendiction.
Saturday 28th October: As I was vesting for Mass Eoghain MacMillan dropped in to say
that Mrs Steele had died during the night. RIP
(Yesterday evening we had a visit from Neil MacInnes, Smerclate who had just arrived in
this country after being torpedoed on SS Lochavon in mid Atlantic. He had just gone to
bed when they were torpedoed without warning at 4am. They were 10hours in the boats
before being picked up by a British destroyer and taken to Plymouth, whence they
journeyed to London where they got some clothes.)
This evening I heard Confessions from 4 to 6.30.
Monday 30th October: Another gorgeous day of good weather. In the morning I set off
for Ardmhicheil cemetery by way of the shore. A bracing run along the sands to
Ardmhicheil. Delightful to watch the waves with foamy mains throw themselves with
violent fury on the glossy sands. As the waves broke in foam and spray a momentary
rainbow encircled their crests. They seem to have come all the way from Labrador to
dash themselves to pieces on our silver sands.
The funeral had not yet arrived so I hied me up to Beaton’s house. Mrs Beaton (from
Kalgoorlie) set the conversation about Presbyterian Lewis – recalled how she had been
told with scriptural authority that it was a sin to laugh. Nor was dancing encouraged – it
was the art of such as………….. She herself had a great liking for bardachd, her brother
being the Lewis bard. Her favourite hymn writer was Frederick Faber. Then we went
further afield even to Australia and New Zealand. Speaking of her voyage across, she
described her feelings at the remembrance of bible incidents centred about the Red Sea
and Suez. Becoming very realistic, she described how the natives along the banks ‘waved
to them with their camels’ (sic)
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The drone of the bagpipes and the wild careering of horses straining at their tethers told
us of the approach of the funeral. I think the piper played the ‘Flowers of the Forest’ all
the two miles to the cemetery. I conducted the burial service on that green hillock above
the Atlantic and it was very edifying to see the conduct of the crowd, kneeling and
praying at the graves of their friends. How each one knows his ain folk is a mystery for
very few graves are marked by any pretentious gravestones. Later I came back to Bornish
via the sands and across the sand dunes and arrived at the Chapel House at 2pm.
Tuesday 31st October: Sick call in the morning to Donald MacDonald and Confessions
from 4 to 6.30. At night we had to cut up large altar breads because no breads arrived
from the mainland this week. Autumn closed with a beautiful fresh day.
Wednesday 1st November: Winter opened on us with a fine fresh day but rather colder. I
said first Mass at 9.30 and the second at 11.30 after which I gave Benediction. In the
afternoon Fr Duncan and I went up to Daliburgh. I dropped off at MacMillan’s and Fr
Duncan picked me up on the way from Dr Campbell’s. We went out to Lochboisdale for
petrol and came back at once. I drove from Daliburgh Cross to Bornish.
Thursday 2nd November: Said three Masses starting at 9.30. Motored to Lochboisdale
and had dinner at the Hotel. After dinner we had a chat with Mr MacPherson the sheepvet in the lounge. We motored back to Daliburgh. He carried on to Dr Campbell’s and I
dropped off at the Hospital where I had tea at about 4pm. Then I walked down towards
the Chapel House to bid Dr Campbell goodbye but met Fr Duncan coming back. Dr
Campbell had by then taken the other road to Smerclate so we drove back to Bornish.
Friday 3rd November: Strong S.E. wind. Fr Duncan and I heard Confessions at
Stoneybridge and we got a couple of gas masks – a symbol of the spread of civilisation to
the Hebrides!
Saturday 4th November: Heard Confessions in the morning.
Sunday 5th November: Said 11.30 Mass and preached. In the afternoon I supplied
baptismal ceremonies of Donald Walker Airidh-Mhuilin and said Rosary and gave
Benediction in the evening.
Wednesday 8th November: At about 11am Fr Duncan and I motored to Askernish, then
on to Dr Campbell. Here I for the first time met Fr Barron CSSR from Kinnoull. He is to
supply meantime in Daliburgh. I bid Dr Campbell goodbye. It will be the last time that
I’ll see him as a simple priest.
Frs MacLean, Barron and myself motored to the Bute Hospital where we dropped Fr
Barron off and continued to Lochboisdale for petrol. On the way back we called at the
Hospital for a short visit. Mrs MacFarlane, Locheynort, had only come in yesterday. She
had broken one of her legs in the hills.
At night I was called to Donald MacDonald, Bornish, who was ill. Rainy night and pitch
black. Cycled part of the road but couldn’t make much progress with bad torch and bad
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road so I discarded the bike and walked the rest. The old man (over 90) was definitely
weaker than the last time I saw him. I gave him Holy Communion.
Thursday 9th November: Went to Ardkenneth in the afternoon with Fr MacLean. A
telegram arrived for Fr Galbraith calling him to an old lady in Stilligarry, over 6 miles
away. I gave the old lady Communion and Extreme Unction on the way back to Bornish.
While I was attending the old one her daughter went outside and came back from the hen
house with a nice chicken plucked and cleaned for us to take with us in the car! Call it a
stipend, if you like! – but it wasn’t simony in any shape or form!
Friday 10th November: In the evening Fr Duncan and I, hearing that Mrs MacFarlane
was very ill, went to the Bute Hospital. While Fr Duncan went to the ward to see the old
cailleach, I was shown up to Fr Barron’s room. I found him in the middle of tea etc. He
jumped up from the table to shake hands with me as if he hadn’t seen me for years! He
said he was feeling very lonely - he’ll get used to that after some time in the Hebrides. I
read over some of his sermon for next Sunday – it was tolerable Gaelic – in fact quite
good for a Redemptorist. Then Fr Duncan came in for the same handshakes and a ‘I’m
really glad to see you’ to which Fr Barron received the ready response ‘ Many thanks
indeed. Its rarely that anyone is glad to see me’. Despite Fr Barron’s entreaties to stay a
while longer we had to hurry off before darkness fell. I drove off and we nearly came to
grief on the north shoulder of Beinn – na- Corairaidh by nearly catapulting over the steep
bank in an effort to avoid a south-going lorry which kept to the middle of the road. I
suspect it was Angus MacKinnon.
Sunday 12th November: I said 11.30 Mass and I received the remains of Mrs
MacFarlane (RIP) at the Church.
Monday 13th November: I said the Requiem Mass at 10 and later Fr MacLean and I
motored to Ard Mhicheil for the burial service. In the afternoon we went to Lochboisdale
calling at the Bank and the Hotel where we had tea. Then back to Bute Hospital and
home.
Wednesday 15th November: We took a run to Locheynort School, then on to Smith’s,
Howmore and back home. In the afternoon we had a flying visit from Fr Galbraith and Fr
Barron. At midnight Fr MacLean left Bornish for Glasgow – bon voyage – and here I am
once again very much on my own.
Saturday 18th November: This evening I went to Howbeg to hear Confessions.
Sunday 19th November: First Mass at Howbeg at 10 and 2nd Mass at Bornish at 12. At 3
I baptised twins Angus and Katy Mary Morrison, Locheynort and gave Bendiction at 5.
Monday 20th November: Went to Ormiclate. Called on Cailin Dhomhnuill Chailin and
Roddy Bowie and on the way back called to see old man MacDonald.
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Tuesday 21st November: In the morning I heard Confessions and gave Communion to a
couple of indisposed folk in Ormiclate. After I had gone up to bed at night I received a
call to Mrs MacIntyre, Drimisdale, about 5 or 6 miles away. I gave Confession,
Communion, and Extreme Unction. I got back to Bornish in the early hours of the
morning.
Wednesday 22nd November: In the afternoon I went down to see Mrs MacIntyre. She
was delivered of a baby stillborn. However, most likely it received Baptism in the womb.
Thursday 23rd November: I cycled as far as Grogarry after Mass. There I met Nurse
MacAulay with whom I motored to Drimisdale and then on to Ardkenneth to see Fr
Galbraith with whom I had dinner. After 4 I came south with the mail car calling first at
Carnan where several Lovat Scouts (on leave) came aboard. They sang all the way up to
Bornish Cross. We picked up folk all along the road till the place was full to
overcrowding – a cosmopolitan crew. One gent and his wife chattered away in English,
the rest in Gaelic while His Majesty’s soldiers lustily sang their songs astride His
Majesty’s mails.
Friday 24th November: In the evening I had a call from Fr James who was in topping
reminiscent mood. He stayed till after 8 and promised to call next week.
Sunday 26th November: Said both Masses at Bornish and gave Benediction after last
Mass. A frightful day of showers and a furious gale churning the Atlantic a mass of
whipping foam. At 3pm I baptised John Roderick MacLeod of Frobost (Iain Ruaridh
Mhic Raghnuill Mhic Challuim Mhic Ruaridh)
Saturday 2nd December: Confessions at Howbeg this evening at 3.
Sunday 3rd December: First Mass at Howbeg at 10 and second at Bornish at 12. I
preached at both and gave Benediction after last Mass because this was a frightful day of
rain and storms as indicated by the Bornish collection – 4/5d.
Monday 4th December: I did lapaich in Frobost and Garryvaltais today. Later I called on
MacKinnon’s and then cycled home to Bornish.
Tuesday 5th December: Today I did lapaich in Kildonan and called on Malcolm
Campbell who is now progressing favourably. He will prepare the schoolhouse for the
Sale of Work.
Thursday 7th December: Confessions at Bornish at 3. Stormy and wet.
Friday 8th December: Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Masses at Bornish at 9 and
11. Time to rush for breakfast and then off to the Sale of Work at Kildonan School. It is
in aid of the Church building fund. This is the 1st Sale of Work that I’ve had to look after.
Rotten luck with the weather. Pouring rain has kept at home many who would otherwise
come. I had a very busy day of it – moreover I had to rush up to Daliburgh to get keys etc
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from Fr Barron who is leaving tonight. We both motored back to the Sale of Work with
Nurse MacEachen. Fr Galbraith had by now appeared.
I got home that night at about 7-o-clcok after a tiring day.
Saturday 9th December: Confessions at Bornish at 3. Pouring rain.
Sunday 10th December: 1st Mass at Bornish at 10-o-clock, then I rushed off to Daliburgh
to say 2nd Mass at 12. I preached and gave Benediction. I now have the care of two very
scattered parishes – Bornish and Daliburgh (the Bishop – elect’s former parish). I hope
that he sends a priest to Daliburgh soon. I can’t do justice to both parishes. It will be
impossible for me to say Masses at either chapels of ease – Howbeg and Garrynamonie,
the latter of which is big enough to be a separate parish.
Monday 11th December: Today I did lapaich at North Stoneybridge. Letter came from
Fr Duncan. He is feeling comfortable after his operation in Edinburgh. He will be unable
to attend Dr Campbell’s consecration on 14th but hopes to be home for Christmas. He
wishes me to take the car out. I’m not too sure about driving alone – I’ve never tried it –
and besides I’ve no licence.
Wednesday 13th December: I’ve discovered I’ve no road sense either. I took out the car
and motored to South Stoneybridge to do lapaich. I kept it on the road most of the way
but didn’t go with it beyond Stoneybridge School. The rest of the road wasn’t built for
Ford’s cars. I was as wet as a rag before I finished with the old folk. I motored back
cautiously and suffered no bruises.
Thursday 14th December: Dr Campbell consecrated today at Oban. I sent him
congratulatory wire in the evening.
Friday 15th December: More snow on the hills today and more geese on the plains and
more poachers on the prowl.
I motored to Daliburgh Church to see how things were getting on up there and arrived
back before one o’clock.
Saturday 16th December: After dinner I motored to Daliburgh to hear Confessions and
was kept there till late. I had a bit of a rush back to Bornish as the car lights were not
covered in accordance with black-out regulations.
Sunday 17th December: Motored to Daliburgh. Said Mass there and gave Benediction. I
had to do a lot of business with different folk after Mass so that I had to rush back to
Bornish to say 12 o’clock Mass there.
Monday 18th December: Sick call to Lasgair, North Lochboisdale to a sick octogenarian
Alex MacCormick – Gave him Confession, Communion, and Extreme Unction. On the
way back I called on Peter Maclellan who is home on leave from the Lovat Scouts. Then
I proceeded to Daliburgh and got some 5 gallons of petrol from Allan MacDonald
(having previously borrowed coupons from Walkers in Bornish P.O.). Then I went to
Daliburgh Church. Very little oil in the sanctuary lamp and none in the house. I motored
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back to Bornish and arrived there circa one o’ clock. I got dinner and then went out to
Locheynort School to hear Confessions. On the way I left some sanctuary oil at Walker’s
for Angus MacKinnon to take up to Daliburgh. (George MacMillan will now see to the
sanctuary lamp) Wire from Fr MacLean: ‘Still here. Excellent progress. Don’t expect me
for Xmas.’ Heard confessions at Locheynort and prepared the altar in the School for
tomorrow’s Mass. Arrived back before 6pm.
Tuesday 19th December: Said Mass in Locheynort School this morning. Kids and adults
at Communion. Mass was offered for the repose of the soul of Roderick MacIntyre who
along with Angus MacDonald was drowned while herring fishing in Locheynort last
year. They were sorely missed in this entirely Catholic community. I got a cup of tea
from Miss Beaton, the schoolmistress, and then went across the soaking moor to render
duties to Donald MacFarlane on the north side of the loch. He was quite overcome when
he began to talk of the wife who died recently as a result of an accident in the hills. I
returned to the School and packed up vestments etc and returned to Bornish. After dinner
I went down to see Mrs Angus MacIntyre, Drimisdale. She seems very much on the
decline.
Wednesday 20th December: This morning I went to Stoneybridge School to hear
childrens’ Confessions and thence proceeded to Kildonan School to perform the same
duties. This evening I cycled along the machair to see Mrs Beaton. She talked at great
length of her religious experience. As it is most difficult for me to see her often and still
more difficult for her to come to Bornish, I proposed to give her a sort of correspondence
instruction. I only hope the pressure of work will allow me to do this.
Thursday 21st December: I celebrated childrens’ Mass at Bornish Church at 9.30 and
thereafter listened to the childrens’ rendering of ‘ Missa de Angelis’. In response to a
request from the banker for coppers, I motored to Lochboisdale. Business finished at the
bank, I went to Buchan’s shop and straightaway gained admittance though this is their
closing half-day. I procured brown paper to black out the Church windows for Midnight
Mass. Meantime the policeman (the only one on the whole island) came along and had a
good look at the car. It was innocent of the required white streamline; innocent of shaded
head lights. It was devoid of licence notice and I had no driving licence myself. Enough
to incriminate anyone, but the good soul went home to his own fireside when he saw me
coming out of Buchan’s shop. I went down to the pier and chatted with the fishermen. As
it was getting late in the afternoon they hadn’t even a fry for the sagart.
Jimmy Hutchison (the mechanic) brought me word that Fr Galbraith was at Nurse
MacEachen’s and that he wished me to call. I did so and we had tea at the nurse’s.
Thereafter we motored to Bornish.
Friday 22nd December: This morning I set off early to do lapaich at Snisival and
Peninerine. I left the car at Howbeg, climbed up to Snisival and then down west to the far
end of Peninerine.
Saturday 23rd December: Early morning start after Mass to do lapaich. I began at
Howbeg, then on to Howmore, and finished at Drimisdale. Thence I came back to
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MacMillan’s, Howmore, where I ate a hasty dinner (I had no time to go back to Bornish)
After dinner I went back to Howbeg Church to hear Confessions. I finished at 4 o’clock,
motored back to Bornish, got some tea, and then heard Confessions at Bornish Church till
8 o’clock. After that I had to say the day’s Office.
Sunday 24th December: First Mass at Bornish at 10 then off to Daliburgh to say 12
o’clock Mass there. I conveyed to the people Bishop Campbell’s thanks for prayers,
congratulations etc. (Earlier in the week I got a letter from the Bishop asking me to do my
best for Daliburgh till such time as the Holy See would appoint parish priest). (Under the
1917 Code of Canon Law, in force at the time, certain parishes within a diocese, due to
their prestige, had ‘immovable’ parish priests. Daliburgh was one of these parishes
within the Diocese of Argyll and the Isles and the appointment of a parish priest to these
parishes had to come from Rome on the suggestion of the local Bishop. This practice was
discontinued with the publication of the Code of Canon Law in 1983 and ‘immovable’
parish priests no longer exist, although the appointment of a parish priest is deemed to be
‘permanent’ under the 1983 Code.)
I came back fasting from Daliburgh, got a cup of tea, and went down to the Church for
the baptism of Margaret Mary MacKenzie of Garryvaltais. Meantime John Morrison and
Ewen MacMillan with 2 helpers were constructing the crib. Back to the house, I got my
dinner and went down to the Church to see to the covering of the windows. I came back
and had supper. Thereafter, I had a look at the Plain Chant Preface, Pater etc and had
started to get together a few ideas for a sermon when a lass came to the house for
Confession. No sooner had I collected my thoughts again than Peggy Mhor arrived for
Confession and a good conversation if I had had the time for it. Eventually I got a few
ideas and left the rest to come at the moment of preaching – very like tempting
providence.
I went to the Church at about 10.30. Already a fair crowd had taken their seats. Lots came
to Confession. At about 11,30 the Church was packed and I had to take the younger lads
on to the sanctuary to make room for the adults. Yet many were standing in the passage,
in the porch and even out on the steps. It was a lovely moonlit night and crowds had
come from Daliburgh parish as well as a few from the north. After Mass I exchanged
greetings with lots of people outside. It was after 3am before I got to bed.
Monday 25th December: Christmas Day. I celebrated 1st Mass at Howbeg and gave a
short sermon at 10 and then went south and did likewise at Daliburgh. I called at
MacMillan’s, Daliburgh, for a cup of tea and came back to Bornish.
Tuesday 26th December: After 12 I drove with Mrs MacLeod and Donnie to see Fr
Galbraith, had dinner, and came back to Bornish at dusk only to find there was a sick call
to Drimisdale. So back again for the north. Mrs MacIntyre was weaker than ever and has,
I believe, contracted pneumonia. I gave her Confession, Communion, and Extreme
Unction. Before I left the house we all said the Rosary.
Wednesday 27th December: I was early for the south end this morning. I celebrated
Mass at Bute Hospital, heard patients’ Confessions and gave them Holy Communin.
Then I carried on to Lochboisdale for petrol and belated presents.
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From there I carried on south and called at MacPhee’s, Garrynamonie, Mrs Stewart’s,
South Boisdale, and then landed home. On the way back I called at George MacLean’s
and MacKinnon’s. Then on to Daliburgh Church to see how things were there and then
on to Bornish.
Thursday 28th December: Spent most of the day answering correspondence.
Friday 29th December: Ditto. Visit from Fr Galbraith.
Saturday 30th December: At P.O. I heard of the death of Mrs MacIntyre, Drimisdale,
RIP. Letter from Fr Duncan – getting on nicely now. I met Mr Angus MacIntyre at
Bornish Cross. I was on my way north. We made the funeral arrangement. Burial on
Tuesday. I couldn’t manage it on New Year’s Day because of Mass in Daliburgh. I went
north to see Fr Galbraith on business and called firstly at MacAulay. Angus John greased
the shock absorbers while Nurse ran me down to Ardkenneth and back again. Evetually I
got under way for Bornish and managed to take a hasty dinner before going south to
Daliburgh to hear Confessions. I got back to Bornish rather tired.
Sunday 31st December: First Mass at Daliburgh. There was to be a baptism there but the
oils were nowhere to be found. I preached and gave Benediction before returning to
Bornish to do likewise. After a belated breakfast I got oils etc and went back to
Garrynamonie Church to confer Baptism on Angus O’Henly, Garrynamonie (Aonghus
Mac Alasdair Ic Alasdair Ruadh)
After returning to Bornish I had dinner and then got on with the Office finishing it off
with only 5 minutes of 1939 to spare.
Monday 1st January: I heard the bells of Notre Dame ring in the New Year and then
went to bed.
In the morning I said first Mass at Bornish, preached and gave Benediction , then went to
Daliburgh to do likewise. I called at MacMillan’s for a cup of tea and set off for Bornish.
Just as I sat down at dinner a sick call came and I had to rush south again to Neil Walker,
Kilphedar. After the sick call, I paid a few visits before going back, calling at John
Morrison, John MacLellan’s, Donald John Steele’s, Angus Morrison’s and Mrs
Crossey’s.
Tuesday 2nd January: I had Requiem Mass at Howbeg at 10 and Obsequies. I sipped a
cup of tea from my thermos flask and motored round to Stoneybridge, calling at Beaton’s
to await the funeral. Meantime Fr Galbraith came along and when the funeral procession
wound its way along to Ard Micheil, we joined it. The burial over, we returned to
Beaton’s, heard each other’s Confessions and had tea, then I came back to Bornish.
Wednesday 3rd January: I left Bornish at 8.15 for Garrynamonie. At Burnside I heard
Mrs Crossey’s Confession and gave Holy Communion. I did the same at Mrs Mac
Phee’s, Garrynamonie. Going over to the Church I discovered that Fr Barron had taken
the chalice away and had left it at Daliburgh. Post haste I had to motor to Daliburgh and
back again once more. Then I heard Confessions before Mass. I had Mass at
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Garrynamonie for the soldiers home on Christmas leave. After Mass, I had tea at
MacPhee’s, then called home and then carried on to Lochboisdale. I deposited the copper
collection in the bank, managed to get some petrol without any coupons, called at
MacPhee’s and MacKay’s, and before leaving Lochboisdale I got a fry of fresh herring
from the ‘Ocean Star’. Then I made for Bornish, calling at the Bute Hospital en route.
Friday 5th January: This evening I heard Confessions in Bornish from 3 o’clock.
Saturday 6th January: Mass at Bornish at 10 and then on to Daliburgh to say the second
Mass at 12. Immediately after Mass, I began to hear Confessions. After hearing 40 odd,
Nurse MacEachen came in to announce that she had brought me in a dinner from her own
house. I left the Confessional and took a hasty dinner in the Chapel House after which I
returned to finish off Confessions. Getting on for 3 o’clock I returned to Bornish.
Sunday 7th January: I left for Daliburgh, said Mass and preached. After Mass I baptised
Sarah Theresa Pamela MacKinnon of London. I then rushed back to Bornish, celebrated
second Mass at 12, preached and gave Benediction. In the evening I went to the
baptismal reception to Askernish and came back before 6.
Monday 8th January: This morning I made an early start to say Mass at the Bute
Hospital, Daliburgh. After breakfast there, I went to Lochboisdale taking Mother
Mechtilde with me in the car. At Lochboisdale Donald Currie cleaned and oiled the car
and after refuelling I set off for Bornish, dropping Mother Mechtilde at the Hospital.
After dinner I went out to Locheynort to bring back black out material lent to the School
for last Thursday’s entertainment for the Camerons home on leave.
Tuesday 9th January: This morning I had a letter from Fr Duncan. He intends coming to
Oban at the Bishop’s invitation tomorrow. After dinner I went to Gerinish to procure car
licence application from Mr MacMillan, Thereafter I continued to Ardkenneth to see Fr
James. I wasn’t long in till Nurse MacAulay and Dr Paterson showed up. The latter
‘treated’ us to his usual ramblings about war-time life in Mesopotamia. After we got rid
of him, I motored back against an increasing gale to Bornish.
Wednesday 10th January: At 2.30 in the morning I was roused from my slumbers by a
sick call to Kenneth MacIntyre, North Boisdale. I am sure I made that 11 or 12 miles in
record time though there was a strong wind against me. He was taken ill after retiring. I
think his trouble is cerebral haemorrhage. Though conscious, he was speechless and more
or less paralysed down his right side. I managed to give him all the sacraments. It was
5.30 in the morning before I got back to Bornish. I slept for an hour or two, said Mass at
8.30 and then some Office. Fr James came along after dinner and we went south to
Lochboisdale, got a fry of fresh herring from Eriskay fishermen and then came back to
Bornish.
After Mass I went to MacDonald (Domhnull Mac Dhomhnuil Ruaidh) to administer
Confession and Holy Communion to Mrs Morrison, Locheynort, who is staying there
with the twins in the meantime. Thence I carried on to the P.O. for mails and back to the
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house. I had a letter from Fr Alick MacKellaig (‘Sandy’). Like myself, he misses Ushaw
life but is quite contented in Rothesay. Fr Galbraith put in an appearance in the afternoon
and I drove south with him, called at Lochboisdale and then carried on south to Boisdale.
I called on MacIntyre. He has regained his speech but he has no coherence in his talk. We
called back at Daliburgh Church and started the car up, took it out and then returned it to
the garage. Then we made our way back to Bornish in the growing darkness.
Friday 12th January: Today I went up south, called home and then motored round
through South Boisdale and North Boisdale to see MacIntyre. His mind still wanders. On
the way back, I dropped in at Morrison’s, Kilpheder, and thereafter made for Bornish. At
Daliburgh I gave a lift to Gilbert MacLellan (Gillbride Mac Dhomhnuill Mhor) to
Frobost. A little way along, I caught up on the little lassie MacCormick from Ormiclate.
She walks all this way and back on weekends from Daliburgh Higher Grade School.
Saturday 13th January: In the evening I heard Confessions in Bornish.
Sunday 14th January: Said 1st Mass in Bornish at 10 and preached. Said 2nd at Daliburgh
at 12, preached and gave Benediction after Mass. Ist Banns proclaimed today inter
Donald John MacLean (Domhnull Iain Aonaghais Mhoir) Kilbride and Mary MacKay
(Mairi Dhomhnuill Iain Ic Aonaghais Ic Iain Mhoir) Garrynamonie. I came back to
Bornish after refuelling at Allan Mor’s. I had dinner and then Rosary and Benediction at
4. Appreciable difference in the evenings already.
Monday 15th January: After dinner I went to Lochboisdale. Donald MacDonald
(Domhnull an Tailleir Ic Dhomhnuill Ruaidh) Bornish went with me. I deposited coppers
at the bank and then went up to the Hotel to let Donald have his glass. There I met
Donald A. MacLean who was out with the betrothed. I asked him to tell the couple to call
at Daliburgh Church on the way back where I could give them their baptismal
certificates. I carried on to Daliburgh, procured the certificates and then motored out to
the crossroads where I met Roddy MacIsaac (Ruarish Iain Ic Ruaridh Mhoir) with his car
and the young couple. I handed them the certificates and then made off for Bornish
Tuesday 16th January: After Mass I went to the P.O. to get the mails. Letter from Fr
Duncan now in Oban. Also letter from Fr Calum Morrison, Oban, saying that he was
arriving tomorrow night to relieve me of the charge of Daliburgh Parish for a week or
two. Deo Gratias. After dinner I went over to MacMillan’s (Domhnull Mac Dhomnuill
Oig) Bornish. His wife is in bed with asthma. At 7.15 I got a sick call from Daliburgh to
Widow MacMillan (Bantrach Nill Iagain). The wire was sent out at 4.45. I set of at once,
but when I arrived Mrs MacMillan was already losing consciousness. I gave her
conditional absolution and Extreme Unction. It was late before I got Back to Bornish, as I
had to ca’ canny on the frozen road. It was a beautiful frosty night and quite bright with
the snow on the hills and countryside relieving the black out. I had a bit of a rush to get
Office in before midnight.
Wednesday 17th January: Still more frost this evening but bright and clear. After Mass I
went to Howmore (6 miles) to render duties to Widow MacIntyre (Bantrach Aonghuis
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Mhic Ailein). She intends leaving tonight for the Western Infirmary. I got back to
Bornish before midday calling at MacMillan’s, Howmore, and at Bowie’s, Howbeg. Just
as I was about to sit down to dinner, I got a call again to Mrs MacMillan, Daliburgh. I
took a hasty dinner and made off south. Mrs MacMillan was a lot better and I was able to
hear her Confession and to give Holy Communion. After that I went to Daliburgh Church
where I had things to set in order and then I went out to Lochboisdale, calling for the
Holy Oils at the Hospital. I went to MacPherson’s (Callum Ruadh) to await the arrival of
the Lochearn. She was in shortly after 8 and I was very pleased to see Fr Calum Morrison
( Maighstir Callum Iain Mhic ChalluimMhic Iain Oig) who has come to relieve
Daliburgh Parish and I do feel relieved. Thereafter, I motored back to Bornish in a
blizzard.
Thursday 18th January: After breakfast I went to the P.O. Letter came from Fr Duncan
and some petrol coupons. He is progressing favourably. Deo Gratias. Before 12 I went up
to Kilbride to see Fr Calum and restore the Blessed Sacrament to Garrynamonie Chapel –
of – ease. John Morrison went up with me as far as Daliburgh. In the afternoon Fr Calum
and I motored to Daliburgh calling at MacPhee’s (Tigh Eachainn Shaoir) Garrynamonie
and at Crossey’s, Daliburgh, before going on to St Peter’s. Then we went round to Angus
Morrison’s (Aonghus Beag Mac Alasdair Mhic Iain) Kilpheder and thereafter I sent Fr
Calum up as far as Garrynamonie. Then I made my way back to Bornish. At Garryhallie I
caught up on John Morrison (Iain Ailein Mhic Challuim) and we made for the north as
cautiously as we could. Snow was thicker on the road by now and with the evening, frost
was setting in.
Friday 19th January: More snow and frost this morning but it promises to be a fine day.
At about 10 I went out to Locheynort to give notice re change to the Sunday
announcements. I called on old Sheila who has not been well for some days. She was
sitting by the fire guarded by her dog and tended by Mor Ruadh. I spent the evening at
home. At night I got the customary call to old man MacDonald and gave him Holy
Communion.
Saturday 20th January: By this morning’s post I got some geographic Magazines from
the boys at Ushaw. In the afternoon I went to Howbeg to hear Confessions – the going
and coming was a slow process on the snowy slippery roads.
Sunday 21st January: More snow. I said the first Mass and preached at Howbeg at 10.
Ditto at Bornish at 12. Had Rosary and Benediction at Bornish at 4.30.
Monday 22nd January: Wintry conditions continue. After breakfast I went up to Bute
Hospital to fetch Fr Calum who was saying Mass there. We saw all the patients and then
went down to Daliburgh Church to see to things there. Afterwards we went to
Lochboisdale with the coppers. On the way out we gave Aonaghus Challum, Locheynort,
a lift. He was going to see Alex MacCormick (Alasdair Mac a Chiobar), Lasgair,
Lochboisdale. In Lochboisdale we heard of the latter’s death. RIP. He died at 2am.
Business done at Lochboisdale, we went north to Bornish, had dinner and a long ceilidh.
Called at Scobie’s, came back to the Chapel House, had tea and then I ran Fr Morrison up
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to Daliburgh Cross. At Bornish Cross we caught up on Roderick MacCormick (Ruaridh
Mac a Chiobar), Locheynort, who was going up to Lochboisdale for his brother’s wake.
We gave him a lift as far as Daliburgh. At Kildonan we passed another car whom we took
to be Fr Galbraith returning from the south end. At Daliburgh I turned back and left Fr
Morrison to cycle home.
Tuesday 23rd January: Signs of thaw this morning. After breakfast I went to Peninerine
to administer Confession and Communion to old Mrs MacIntyre (Bantrach Aonaghus
Ruaidh). Thereafter I carried on to Eochar, but now the roads were worse than ever with
the thaw. I nearly came to grief turning the corner at Howmore School. I skidded several
times from side to side of the road and I don’t just know how I managed to avoid the
ditch. I reached Eochar without mishap and there got the news of the clerical world. I
didn’t stay long so after a cup of tea and Confession I made slowly for Bornsih
sometimes at a speed of not more than 5mph.
Wednesday 24th January: Most of the snow has now thawed and we have a fine day. At
about 11 o’clock I went south to attend the funeral of Alex MacCormick. Requiem Mass
was celebrated by Fr Morrison and after a cup of tea we went to Hallan for the burial. Fr
Calum conducted the service and I said the gaelic prayers afterwards. After the funeral
we returned to Daliburgh, then called on Mrs MacMillan (Bean Nill Iagain) and
afterwards carried on to Lochboisdale. We had dinner at the Hotel and then an argument
with Dr Paterson who arrived with Nurse MacAulay. Then we carried on for Daliburgh
again. At the crooked river we met Domhnull Ailean Chocaire who told me there was a
sick call to Mrs MacDonald (Bean Shonaidh Mhic Aonaghais Mhic Domhnuill) of
Stoneybridge. We drove on to the Bute Hospital where I got a pyx and took the Blessed
Sacrament with me and then sped north for Stoneybridge. I gave her omnia. Thereafter I
called on MacIntosh’s, Schoolhouse, and then home to Bornish.
Saturday 27th January: Wet and Windy. I heard Confession in the evening.
Sunday 29th January: Both Masses at Bornish. I gave Benediction after the last Mass.
Very wild and wet.
Monday 29th January: Weather the same. I left early for Lochboisdale, giving Bella
MacDonald (Belleag Dhomnuill an Taillear) a lift up to Daliburgh Cross on her way to
Daliburgh Higher Grade School. Then I stopped at Bute Hospital. Fr Morrison was
saying Mass there. I stayed for Mass and said Little Hours. At breakfast Fr Calum told
me that MacIntyre, North Boisdale, was going to consult with me with a view to getting
their son Donald released from military service. We decide to go to North Boisdale. But
first of all Fr Calum had to hear Confessions at MacMillan’s and later at Walker’s (Bean
Dhomnuill Mhic Iain Mhic Ruaridh). After that we went to Daliburgh Church where I
borrowed sanctuary oil then we made off to North Boisdale. Kenneth was sitting in the
kitchen but still his mind wanders. I read the letter from Donald then we made off for
Lochboisdale to see Warnock, the agent for the Board of Agriculture and put the case
before him. He was going to write today when he got full details. We also intend to write
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to the Ministry of Labour. Business finished in Lochboisdale we left and I dropped Fr
Calum off at the Hospital and made for Bornish.
No word came from Fr Duncan – the cable is out of order in the Minch and we are cut
off from the mainland. The telephone service with the mainland is also cancelled for the
duration except for official service, for instance if the hen wife wants to inform the Board
of Agriculture that the Hebridean hens have ceased to lay eggs for the duration, she can
use the phone for such an important call! It can’t be used for anything else no matter how
urgent. Thus, for example, a corpse arrived in Barra by the mailboat. The piermaster
began to enquire whose it was and only after searching among the mails did he find a
telegram brought by the mailboat from Oban did he find out that it was that of his own
sister who died in Glasgow. Well, anyhow, at 6.30 I made off to Lochboisdale on the
chance that Fr Duncan would arrive. It was very stormy and at times it nearly blew the
car off the road. I put bye part of the time at MacPherson’s then at about 9 when the boats
were overdue I came down to the pier. It was bitterly cold – as cold as I’ve ever felt it.
Still no signs of the mails. Then word came from Barra that the Lochearn had arrived
there but was not going to venture across to Uist. She had had enough of the Minch. No
word of the Lochmor. After some time Willie Jordan and Donald MacCormick and I
went to the waiting room. It was packed out so we went up to the Hotel smoke room.
That had also a fair complement. Once when I went outside to see if the Lochmor put in
an appearance, George Clark saw me. He must have told the staff I was there, for soon
afterwards one of the maids, Mrs MacDonald (Nighean Taillear Ailein Bhig)
Stoneybridge, came into the smoke room for me. She took me to the Anglers’ Room.
Here there was a nice fire burning and I sat down. Johnny MacDonald (Shonaidh
Ruaraidh Phosda), Lochboisdale, followed me in and there we sat in comfort for a chat.
Soon Kate Effie MacDonald (Nighean Sheumais Eiric), Locheynort, came in with some
tea for us. Time wore on and no Lochmor. On one of our lookouts we met a chap whose
face was familiar to me but whom I couldn’t spot. Johnny told me it was Donald
MacAskill (Domhnuill Aoidh), East Kilbride. I had not met him since we were at school
together. He is leaving on Friday – I think he’s a seafarer. We waited till 11.30, then went
down to the pier and still no sign of the Lochmor. I then made for Bornish – arriving
there at about midnight.
Tuesday 30th January: Wire from Fr Duncan (it came by the Lochmor which arrived at
1am) saying that he deferred coming until next week.
Wednesday 31st January: Not so wild but there was more frost last night. In the
afternoon I went to the P.O. then Locheynort. Dropped in at the School and called on
Sheila. She is better now.
Thursday 1st February: In the afternoon I went south to see Fr Morrison about our joint
appeal on behalf of Piper Donald MacIntyre. First I called at Crossy’s and learnt that Fr
Calum had been down that morning to see Mrs Angus Morrison (Bean Aonaghuis Mhic
Dhomnuill), Kilpheder., who is ill. I called in to see her and then carried on south
stopping at MacPhee’s, Garrynamonie, and so on again to Kilbride. I didn’t stay long. Fr
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Calum and I motored to Daliburgh where we wrote the letter. Then I carried on back to
Bornish.
Friday 2nd February: At night the housekeeper and wee Margaret went with me to see a
play and other entertainment at Garrynamonie School in aid of the Soldiers and Sailors
Fund. ‘Peggie Bheag’ was a most enjoyable play interspersed with plenty of local
allusions. It was the first Gaelic play I had ever seen acted. Before I left for College they
weren’t much in vogue and there were none staged during my summer holidays. After the
show, we had tea at MacPhee’s and then made for Bornish.
Saturday 3rd February: After Mass I went on sick call to Mrs A MacIntyre (Bean
Aonaghuis Ruaidh Mhic Aonaghuis Mhic Domhnuill), Peninerine. Gave her omnia. In
the evening I heard Confessions.
Sunday 4th February: Stormy like last weekend. Said 9.30 and 11.30 Masses. After last
Mass gave Rosary and Benediction. Visit from Miss MacInnes.
Monday 5th February: In the morning I went to MacAulay’s, Iochdar, and got the glass
fixed in the car. In the afternoon, I went up as far as Milton to fetch Dr Ferguson. He had
tea and supper with me. At night we went south and met Fr Morrison at Garrynamonie.
He called at Daliburgh Church. The girls MacPherson (Clann Shonaidh Lachlainn) had
everything ready for Fr Neil MacKellaig’s arrival. We had tea.
Fr Morrison, Dr Ferguson and I then motored to Lochboisdale. Fr Duncan and Fr Neil
arrived by the Lochmor and Fr Calum left by the Lochearn. Fr Neil brought his own car.
He followed Fr Duncan and I into Daliburgh. Then Fr Duncan and I made for Bornish.
Tuesday 6th February: Quiet day. Fr Duncan stayed in bed.
Wednesday 7th February: In the evening I saw wee Margaret out to the P.O. on her way
home to Glasgow. At 5 I gave Stations of the Cross and Benediction. (After Mass in the
morning I heard of the death of Mrs MacIntyre, Peninerine, RIP)
Thursday 8th February: After Mass sick call to Donald Walker (Domhnull Iain
Walker), Stoneybridge, and gave him omnia. On my return I went to Askernish to see the
factor re Daliburgh rent and then on to St Peter’s. On the road I met Fr Neil and the
housekeeper going to Bornish en route for Iochdar. I also then turned back but called at
Allan Mor MacDonald’s to pay 3 hires on behalf of Fr Barron. Returning to Bornish, Fr
Neil was there before me. He soon departed for Iochdar, promising to call at Bornish on
the way back. He did so and stayed awhile and then made off to Daliburgh.
Friday 9th February: 29 today. At 11.30 I went off to Mrs MacIntyre’s funeral leaving
the car at Stoneybridge School. After the funeral I called to see Mrs Beaton and later
Walker’s and then back for dinner.
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Saturday 10th February: Sick call to Donald MacLellan (Domhnull MacDhomhnuill
Mhoir), Garryvaltais, who is staying now at Garryvaltais House. After that I went home
to get Pars Verna of the breviary and soon returned north meeting Fr Neil at Allan Mor’s.
After dinner I went to Howbeg to hear Confessions. After Supper, I had a sick call to
Donald MacDonald, Bornish.
Sunday 11th February: Said Mass at Howbeg and preached. Ditto at Bornish. In the
evening I had Rosary and Benediction.
Tuesday 13th February: Word came today from the Bishop of Fr Duncan’s appointment
to Daliburgh by favour of the Holy See. The Bishop has also nominated him Dean of the
Isles. It seems I am to go with him to Daliburgh. In the evening I went to Howbeg to give
Stations of the Cross. On the way I met Fr Galbraith but did not break the news to him of
Fr MacLean’s appointment.
Monday 19th February: Did lapaich at Bornish and Ormiclate in the morning.
Tuesday 20th February: Did lapaich at MacMillan’s in the morning. In the evening Fr
Neil came down just as I was about to leave for Howbeg to give Stations of the Cross. At
Howbeg I met Mr MacIntosh who told me that the folks wanted to get up a presentation
for me as well as for Fr Duncan. I think that I have managed to persuade him not to do so.
It would spoil Fr Duncan’s, besides I’ve only been about 5 months in the parish.
Wednesday 21st February: Pouring rain. In the morning I did lapaich in Snishival and
Peninerine. I was soaked despite seaboots and oilskins.
Thursday 22nd February: More rain and more lapaich. This morning Fr MacLean and I
went to Howbeg. He went to Bowie’s and then back to Stoneybridge for Mr MacIntosh,
while I changed into oilskins and gumboots and kicked around Howbeg and Howmore
doing lapaich. I met Fr Duncan and MacIntosh at Howmore School whence we proceded
to the Meeting at Gerinish. The Usual. Then back to Bornish.
Friday 23rd February: After breakfast I went to Stoneybridge to hear children’s
Confessions and then out to Locheynort for the same. After dinner I went to Kildonan
School to hear the children there and walked back to give Stations and Bendiction.
Saturday 24th February: Heard Confessions in the evening.
Sunday 25th February: Said 9.30 and 11.30 Mass. Stations and Benediction at 5.30.
Monday 26th February: In the evening I heard Confessions at Locheynort School and
prepared for tomorrow’s Mass there.
Tuesday 27th February: Mass at Locheynort at 9.30, then a cup of tea and into sea-boots
and oilskin once more. I left Bayhead in Aonaghus Challum’s boat and so out to
Locheynort proper. I landed on the north side, heard Confession and gave Communion to
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Donald MacFarlane, then on to the south side of the loch to do lapaich there. I found
Roderick MacCormick in a rather weak state and decided to come back in the afternoon
to anoint him. It was now the turn of the tide, so I had to walk all the way back over a
shockingly bad path. After dinner, I rushed off again to Locheynort, scrambled out again
to Roderick, anointed him and walked back. Then I motored to Gerinish to get some
duplicating paper from Roderick MacMillan, came south. Had a much needed cup of tea
at Bowie’s, then gave Stations of the Cross at Howbeg.
Thursday 29th February: Sale of Dean MacLean’s effects. I had the unenviable job of
acting auctioneer’s clerk for most of the day. Lapaich in Stoneybridge in the morning.
Friday 1st March: Lapaich at Milton and Frobost. Stations at Bornish at 6
Saturday 2nd March: Six months today I came to Bornish. Wire re Donald MacLean’s
death at sea. When Dean went to Kilbride, I went with him and called at home then back
to Bornish. Confessions at 5.
Sunday 3rd March: Said 9.30 Mass. Dean MacLean said 11.30 Mass and preached his
last sermon. In the evening the Dean gave Stations and I gave Benediction.
Monday 4th March: Said 8.30 Mass in the Church then we got ready for Daliburgh. 4
times I went backwards and forwards with the car carrying various articles that we didn’t
think risking putting on the lorry. After 6pm all came up to Daliburgh for good.
My stay in Bornish brings happy memories. I hope I can say the same of my native
parish.
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