Ian Maclaren In America

Ian Maclaren in America.

The Rev. John Watson, D. D., (Ian Maclaren) author of "Beside the Bonnie Brier Bush," "The Days of Auld Lang Syne," etc, is now making his second American tour. He was in this country in the autumn of 1896 from Oct. 2, to Dec. 12, and achieved such a triumph as would do justice to any European celebrity one would name. Vast throngs gather weekly to listen to the eloquent preacher in Liverpool, where he now lives, although he has repeatedly been called to London. Hundreds of thousands of copies of his books have been sold in America as well as in England.

Dr. Watson is a pure-blooded Highlander and it is said that his brogue is as broad as his shoulders. The success he has achieved as an author, a preacher and a lecturer may perhaps be explained by saying that he knows how to touch the great heart of the people. At the time of his previous visit the press spoke repeatedly of the alternation of tears and laughter in his vast audiences. He had the art of mirth and pathos. Not many towns as small as Ann Arbor will be favored with a visit from so distinguished a guest and surely this generation of students will not have another chance. He will speak on "Certain traits of Scottish Character," with readings from "Beside the Bonnie Brier Bush," "Auld Lang Syne," "Dr. McClure," etc.