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PREFACE
This book was nearly
completed in 1914, and only deals with the circumstances before the
outbreak of war. The parts dealing with the structure and finance of the
administrative authorities are descriptive of the present structure and
of the financial position in 1912-13. The historical narrative, which is
contained in the part on the functions of the authorities, tends to
drift towards the Western Islands, where the difficulties have always
been best exemplified and most acute. Since the problem in the Highlands
and Islands is essentially a rural one, and to avoid overloading the
book, no mention has been made of burghal government. On the other hand,
the Central Authorities are described in some detail to meet the needs
of English readers unfamiliar with the peculiarities of the Scottish
branches of the Executive. On my return from France I wrote the
conclusion, and brought the work up to date with regard to fresh
legislation, but no attempt has been made to deal with the abnormal
conditions occasioned by the War.
I wish to express my gratitude to Mr. James Malloch, Professor D'Arcy
Thompson, Mr. W. H. Blyth-Martin, and Mr. H. M. Conacher for allowing me
to consult books in their possession; and especially to Professor W. R.
Scott, who has taken a kindly interest in this book since its inception,
and to whose unfailing courtesy and generous help I am much indebted.
For the few opinions expressed in the book, I alone am responsible.
I desire also to acknowledge the assistance of the Carnegie Trust for
the Universities of Scotland, who have granted me a guarantee, up to
£100, against possible loss in the publication of this work. My thanks
are also due to Major D. W. P. Strang, M.C., Seaforth Highlanders, and
Mr. P. H. Bertram, Highland Light Infantry, for reading the proofs and
suggesting emendations. Finally, I must express my warmest thanks to
Colonel Sir Lewis Mclver, Bart., whose continued interest and
appreciation have been to me so great an encouragement.
J. P. Day.
5 Roseangle Terrace,
Dundee,
August 1918
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