Again to Eagascaig
tune - The Mountains of Kintail

Again to Coile Eagascaig one fine September day
Memories returning as I set off on my way
A buzzard circling overhead surveying the wild terrain
Disturbed young hinds a grazing invaded their domain.

Had coffee near the bothy ‘mong the bracken as before
The building seeped in mystery its history to explore
Who knows the hidden secrets embedded in its stone
For many years abandoned deserted and alone.

Poured myself a ‘measure’ from my stainless steel hip flask
A toast to the old bothy synonymous with its past
A silent voice came whispering with it I did converse
Tonight I’d choose a melody and arrange the words in verse.

Through the heather homewards down to the cattle shed
Breaking news forthcoming the news we all did dread
The Queen at her Balmoral in bed and gravely ill
She passed away in Scotland her wishes to fulfil.

She witnessed full-scale changes in her distinguished life
Loyal to her duty through good times and through strife
Attending state occasions her commitment did not feign
Never to be equalled her long illustrious reign.

The years have swiftly fleeted since Coronation day
She faithfully ruled over us in her own regal way
The country is united in sorrow and in grief
Tributes from around the world midst scenes of unbelief.

The words I had intended are meantime ‘put on hold’
Witnessing much pageantry as history does unfold
We now have a new monarch our allegiance we do sing
Concluding now with noted words God save our Gracious King.

Hector was walking this area when Queen Elizabeth’s death was announced