One evening I was strolling about in that neighbourhood, when I heard the sounds of a fife-and-drum band practising. I forget exactly the locality, but it was not far from what I always looked upon as the centre of the city namely, the corner of Young and King Streets. Going inside, there were some young fellows practising, but no regular teacher. Having done a little on the flute and piccolo myself, I asked to have a try, and a fife being handed to me, I played the "Love-knot Quickstep" at least, that was the name by which it was known to me.

I was asked to join them, as they were practising for a procession on the I2th of July. I was given a copy of the tunes they were getting up, and, as I have said, there being no regular instructor, I promised to give them a careful study at home, ready for the occasion.