William Guthrie was a Scottish historian and writer, renowned for his extensive contributions to the understanding of Scotland's past. His most significant work, 'A General History of Scotland from the Earliest Accounts to the Present Time,' reflects his deep engagement with Scottish history, offering a comprehensive narrative that spans from ancient times to the modern era. This work is notable not only for its breadth but also for its attempt to synthesize various historical accounts into a cohesive narrative, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers interested in Scotland's rich heritage. In addition to his historical writings, Guthrie also delved into legal and economic subjects, as evidenced by his reports on the Shetland Truck System and the implications of the Trade Union Act of 1871. His exploration of trade unions in England and Scotland highlighted the evolving landscape of labor rights during a time of significant social change. Through these works, Guthrie contributed to the discourse on economic and social issues, reflecting the complexities of his era. His writings remain a testament to his commitment to documenting and analyzing the intricacies of Scottish society and history, securing his legacy as an important figure in Scottish literature and historiography.
“If it were possible for a metaphysician to be a golfer, he might perhaps occasionally notice that his ball, instead of moving forward in a vertical plane (like the generality of projectiles, such as brickbats and cricket balls), skewed away gradually to the right. If he did notice it, his methods would naturally lead him to content himself with his caddies's remark-'ye heeled that yin,' or 'Ye jist sliced it.' ... But a scientific man is not to be put off with such flimsy verbiage as that. He must know more. What is 'Heeling', what is 'slicing', and why would either operation (if it could be thoroughly carried out) send a ball as if to cover point, thence to long slip, and finally behind back-stop? These, as Falstaff said, are 'questions to be asked.””