No More Learning

TO MR. THOMSON.

[The genius of the poet triumphed over pain and want,--his last songs
are as tender and as true as any of his early compositions. ]

MY DEAR SIR,

I once mentioned to you an air which I have long admired--"Here's a
health to them that's awa, hiney," but I forget if you took any notice
of it. I have just been trying to suit it with verses, and I beg leave
to recommend the air to your attention once more. I have only begun
it.

[Here follow the first three stanzas of the song, beginning,

Here's a health to ane I loe dear;[290]

the fourth was found among the poet's MSS. after his death. ]

R. B.

FOOTNOTES:

[Footnote 290: Song CCLXVII. ]

* * * * *




CCCXXXIII.


TO MR. THOMSON.

[John Lewars, whom the poet introduces to Thomson, was a brother
gauger, and a kind, warm-hearted gentleman; Jessie Lewars was his
sister, and at this time but in her teens.
]

This will be delivered by Mr. Lewars, a young fellow of uncommon
merit. As he will be a day or two in town, you will have leisure, if
you choose, to write me by him: and if you have a spare half-hour to
spend with him, I shall place your kindness to my account. I have no
copies of the songs I have sent you, and I have taken a fancy to
review them all, and possibly may mend some of them; so when you have
complete leisure, I will thank you for either the originals or
copies. [291] I had rather be the author of five well-written songs than
of ten otherwise. I have great hopes that the genial influence of the
approaching summer will set me to rights, but as yet I cannot boast of
returning health. I have now reason to believe that my complaint is a
flying gout--a sad business!

Do let me know how Cleghorn is, and remember me to him.

This should have been delivered to you a month ago. I am still very
poorly, but should like much to hear from you.

R. B.

FOOTNOTES:

[Footnote 291: "It is needless to say that this revisal Burns did not
live to perform. "--Currie. ]

* * * * *




CCCXXXIV.


TO MRS.