Marchmont in Marchmont 2

Though the bed is incredibly comfortable here I didn't have a great sleep.  The window was open but it was still so quiet and watching the dawn change the shadows from my window on the longest tree lined drive in Scotland was pretty special.

Today was all about David Eustace.  There was an amazing breakfast in the OKG (Old Kitchen Gallery).  Strange how you have to have a fry up when it's put in front of you. We were joined by day guests, some DE's friends.  Then to the Music Room for David's life story and an introduction to some of his portfolios.  32 York Place was stunning.  And of course in between there was coffee and fine pieces, and then lunch.  

After lunch we wandered down to the Makers' Studios, through the walled garden, to see his exhibition, which is a work in progress.  And on the way there and back we had Hugo giving us an explanation of the art works place around the grounds, including the Owl Temple.

Then there was some free time.  It's 3 flights up and down to the room so hopefully I am compensating for the amount of food I am consuming.  I met up with Huck on the long walk and we walked as far as we could before hitting the road.  There are good voews of the house on the way back, though I wish Lorimer hadn't removed the grand external  staircase.  Somehow it makes it look unfinished.

We found David in the gardens and he showed us the Japanese Garden which is under construction, the lawns which are reminiscent of Jupiter Artland and lastly the sculptures, including a Paolozzi. It was nearly 7, and the sun was going down, and definitely time to go change for dinner.

Once again we met in the Saloon for champagne and then to the Lorimer Room and two games of Freda in the Billiard Room.  It's a bit like table tennis round the table, with billiard balls.  I was an enthusiastic observer.

A few of us did go back upstairs for a nightcap but after last night's excitement I couldn't last the pace.

Been a great day: great weather, great company and fabulous food.