Notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, three intrepid members ventured out early on the second Sunday in Advent, 5^th December, to brave frosty roads, hoping to attend the annual St. Andrew’s Day Service at the High Kirk of Edinburgh, St. Giles Cathedral.  The president, secretary and Ted Murray, the club mascot, made it to Abington when the equipage of Mr. Baird, president of the Robert Burns World Federation, was spotted at a more sedate pace but lost them at Penicuik.  The roads on the approaches and the City Centre were treacherous and parked cars had disappeared under mountains of snow but undeterred, the president navigated, with some advice, to Chambers Street and parked in a snowdrift. Mr. and Mrs Baird having reappeared, it was resolved to visit Deacon Brodie’s Coffee Shoppe nearby the Kirk and the party trudged over pavements of hard packed snow and ice to the danger of passersby. Assembling in the impressive Signet Library, the delegation was awestruck by the majesty of the Great and the Good who robed up and were marshalled into order of precedence. The delegation from the Burns Federation were few in numbers due probably to the weather but made up for it in quality. Some groups, principally the Universities and Learned Societies, were preceded by their Macebearers and duly shuffled across Parliament Square to the Great West Door of the Cathedral inside of which is the powerful Burns Memorial Window. Ushered to our pew, the congregation was welcomed by the Minister of St. Giles, the Rev. Giellesburg McMillan and called to Worship. The Choir of St. Giles was sublime and Readings from the Old and New Testament were delivered by a judge and an ex banker. Being uplifted by the Service, it was decided to repair to the Roslin Glen Hotel, Roslin, some 5 miles south of the city, to partake of luncheon. The president and Mr. Murray were attracted to an item on the menu, “Ostrich Pie” but were disappointed on being told that “The ostrich pie wiz oaf” so settled for breaded haddock.

The return journey was uneventful and sincere thanks are due to President Neil for his driving skill in less than ideal conditions. Entertainment was supplied by Mr. Murray.

DS