1895. Crockett, novelist, minister and journalist, whose lively sketches of Scottish ministers and congregations written with slightly sardonic humor were quite popular. His novels were also well received. The Play Actress begins: It was the preacher's opening prayer. William Greig, elder, was in his place, and there was not a seat vacant in all that silent church. The Old Hundred had gone up to the throne of God with a grand rush, swinging from the hearts of these plain Scottish folk like the tramp of armies. William Greig always thought of his dead wife as they sang it, and of sitting by her side when the white cloths were laid in the Hill Kirk for the earthly communion.