Foreword to Fifth and Final Edition
I am grateful to all of my friends who made comments on the first, second, third and fourth editions of this booklet. I do actually listen to what people say and in some cases I have taken their comments or criticisms on board.
Some people were kind in their responses. Others received my various thoughts graciously, albeit with politely disguised irritation. Some said nothing at all, which leaves me guessing.
I have revised and virtually doubled the text over the course of time. I have also corrected a number of minor errors and updated certain factual information.
Let me emphasise again that this booklet makes no pretensions to being either a literary or scholarly work. It is written in a conversational style.
As before, I take sole responsibility for all comments and interpretations in the booklet. If there are times when I sound harsh or critical, please bear in mind that the person whom I criticise most is Alasdair Gordon.
In March 2018, after having enjoyed many years of very good health, I was suddenly taken ill and diagnosed with terminal cancer. This fifth edition will, inevitably, be the last.
This is my story, this is my song!
Alasdair Gordon
Hamilton,
South Lanarkshire
Scotland
August 2018