I never was in any house of the islands , where I did not find books in more languages than one , if I stayed long enough to want them , except one from which the family was removed . Literature is not neglected by the higher rank of the Hebrideans . It need not , I suppose , be mentioned , that in countries so little frequented as the islands , there are no houses where travellers are entertained for money . He that wander about these wilds , either procure recommendations to those whose habitations lie near his way , or , when night and weariness come upon him , take the chance of general hospitality . If he find only a cottage he can expect little more than shelter ; for the cottagers have little more for themselves but if his good fortune bring him to the residence of a gentleman , he will be glad of a storm to prolong his stay . There is , however , one inn by the sea @-@ side at Sconsor , in Sky , where the post @-@ office is kept .