Rain, Heavy at Times in the West.

02/04/2005

Rain in the west, heavy at times. That sums it up nicely as we go through a dreich day. However, it remains mild at ten degrees, with light southwesterly breezes. Lachie and I manage to dodge most of the showers to spend the day chasing and sorting sheep, in company with an assorted pack of controlled dogs. It goes well and despite some mixed weather the flock are in better than expected shape. Some farmers are talking of compensation claims for livestock lost to exceptional bad weather, but I am not in favour of that. I feel that our losses are manageable and part of the business of farming. It will be interesting to see how the Bavarian grazers and Normand mini farmers approach this potential honey pot. One must expect burning trucks and barricaded motorways and ports. These people, who are not by nature or blood our allies, certainly know how to organise a riot, but only to support self-interest. Do not wait for them to support the irradification of third world debt! Trudging back to the Tower, I sense that the septic tank problem is becoming urgent, but I hope I have a plan and some urgent phone calls from the office ensue. While I stand in fuggy tweeds, I phone round the glens. Everyone is suffering from rainy day blues. At Arichastlich, the Kerrs prepare for many family guests arriving over the weekend and all bedrooms and floor spaces are booked. Most continents are represented. I am afraid that the weather has affected my mood, but if I can toast my feet in front of the library fire, with a book on one side and a dram on the other and hopefully Dearest Dotty to chat with, all will be well. Yours Aye, Archie, The Baron Trollaigh.