Double Dutch

I met Patricia (Patti) and Raymond last Wednesday and a rainstorm of tropical proportions was raging so we decided to postpone the tour until later in the week.

A crowd of friends from Drumnadrochit were in town to see Rod Stewart in concert at the Castle the night before. It had poured with rain then, but I don’t suppose itupset the post menopausal rockers who went to see him. Since they were spending another night in town, Mhairi, a veteran of my appearances at the Kintail Folk Festival had suggested we meet up for a curry some music and a few drinks. I invited Patti and Raymond along and between the Kebab Mahal, the singing of Graeme E Pearson and the odd dram, we had a great night.

The tour finally took place on Friday and what a super time we had. Like so many Dutch they are both tall and all day it was like standing among adults when I was a wee boy. Breakfast in a wee French place in the Grassmarket, lunch in the Guildford Arms and in between, watching the beginning of a love affair with Edinburgh for these beautiful people. Raymond was a little more reserved than Patti who’s laughter, banter and non stop enthusiasm made this one of the best days ever.

A tasting session in the Scotch Malt Whisky Society rounded off the day and sent Raymond back home with a bottle of whisky which he may be assured no-one else in the Netherlands will have. They are resolved to return to Scotland again and that makes me very happy. Raymond, Patti, you are friends for life, haste ye back

Bill