At the
bottom of this cooler, the Worm terminated in a small cock or spigot,
from which the spirits projected in a slender stream, about the
thickness of a quill, into a vessel placed for its reception. Such was
the position of the Still, Head, and Worm, when in full operation.
Fixed about the cave, upon rude stone stillions, were the usual vessels
requisite for the various processes through which it was necessary to
put the malt, before the wort, which is its first liquid shape, was
fermented, cleared off, and thrown into the Still to be singled; for
our readers must know that distillation is a double process, the first
product being called singlings, and the second or last, doublings--which
is the perfect liquor. Sacks of malt, empty vessels, piles of turf,
heaps of grains, tubs of wash, and kegs of whiskey, were lying about in
all directions, together with pots, pans, wooden trenchers, and dishes,
for culinary uses. The seats were round stones and black bosses which
were made of a light hard moss found in the mountains and bogs, and
frequently used as seats in rustic chimney corners. On entering, your
nose was assailed by such a mingled stench of warm grains, sour barm,
putrid potato skins, and strong whiskey, as required considerable
fortitude to bear without very unequivocal tokens of disgust.
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