Wilson's Tales of the Borders and of Scotland, Volume 21

A lively anthology of short stories brings the rugged Borders and the bustling streets of historic Scotland to life. Each tale—whether told by a burgher, a lawyer, a detective or a merchant—mixes folklore, local legend and a dash of imagination, offering listeners a taste of the region’s past and its colorful characters. A handy glossary accompanies the collection, guiding you through the dialect and customs that pepper the narratives.

One standout episode transports you to Bell’s Wynd, a narrow, shadow‑filled passage in old Edinburgh, where the blacksmith George Gourlay and his wife hear whispers of a house that has stood silent for decades. As the city’s New Town rises, the story captures the tension between cramped medieval lanes and the promise of modern grandeur, hinting at hidden histories lurking behind locked doors and cobwebbed walls. The vivid descriptions and gentle mystery invite you to wander these ancient streets, listening for the echoes of lives long ago.