Note 35 — Chapter VII

The Gallowlee was not the usual place of execution; but the most flagrant criminals were generally hung there in chains. Many of the martyrs were exhibited on its summit, which Patrick Walker records with due horror. It ceased to be employed for any purpose of this kind about the middle of the last century; since which period with one exception, no criminals have been hung in chains in Scotland. Its site was a rising ground immediately below the Botanic Garden, in Leith Walk. When the New Town was in the progress of building, the sand used for the composition of the mortar was procured from this spot; on which account the miracle of a hill turned into a valley has taken place, and it is at the present day that low beautiful esplanade of which Eagle and Henderson’s nursery is formed. The Gallowlee turned out a source of great emolument to the possessor, sixpence being allowed for every cartful of sand that was taken away. But the proprietor was never truly benefited by the circumstance. Being addicted to drinking, he was in the habit of spending every sixpence as he received it. A tavern was set up near the spot, which was formerly unaccommodated with such a convenience, for the sole purpose of selling whisky to Matthew Richmond,—and he was its only customer. A fortune was soon acquired of the profits of the drink alone; and when the source of the affluence ceased, poor Matthew was left poorer than he had originally been, after having flung away the proffered chance of immense wealth. Never did gamester more completely sink the last acre of his estate, than did muckle Matthew Richmond drink down the last grain of the sand-hill of the Gallowlee!