Some of the
Murdocks took a leading part in the construction of the abbeys
and cathedrals of the North;[2] others were known as mechanics;
but the greater number were farmers.
One of the best known members of the family was John Murdock, the
poet Burns' first teacher. Burns went to his school at Alloway
Mill, when he was six years old. There he learnt to read and
write. When Murdock afterwards set up a school at Ayr, Burns,
who was then fifteen, went to board with him. In a letter to a
correspondent, Murdock said: "In 1773, Robert Burns came to
board and lodge with me, for the purpose of revising his English
grammar, that he might be better qualified to instruct his
brothers and sisters at home. He was now with me day and night,
in school, at all meals, and in all my walks." The pupil even
shared the teacher's bed at night. Murdock lent the boy books,
and helped the cultivation of his mind in many ways. Burns soon
revised his English grammar, and learnt French, as well as a
little Latin. Some time after, Murdock removed to London, and
had the honour of teaching Talleyrand English during his
residence as an emigrant in this country. He continued to have
the greatest respect for his former pupil, whose poetry
commemorated the beauties of his native district.
It may be mentioned that Bellow Mill is situated on the Bellow
Water, near where it joins the river Lugar.
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