You know it is my trade, and a man in the way of his
trade may suggest useful hints that escape men of much superior parts
and
endowments
in other things.
Robert Burns
R. B.
* * * * *
CCXLV.
TO MR. THOMSON.
[The songs to which the poet alludes were "Poortith Cauld," and "Galla
Water."]
_Jan. 1793._
Many returns of the season to you, my dear Sir. How comes on your
publication?--will these two foregoing [Songs CLXXXV. and
CLXXXVI.] be of any service to you? I should like to know
what songs you print to each tune, besides the verses to which it is
set. In short, I would wish to give you my opinion on all the poetry
you publish.
You know it is my trade, and a man in the way of his
trade may suggest useful hints that escape men of much superior parts
and
endowments
in other things.
If you meet with my dear and much-valued Cunningham, greet him, in my
name, with the compliments of the season.
Yours, &c.,
R. B.
* * * * *
CCXLVI.
TO MR. THOMSON.
[Thomson explained more fully than at first the plan of his
publication, and stated that Dr. Beattie had promised an essay on
Scottish music, by way of an introduction to the work.]
_26th January, 1793._
I approve greatly, my dear Sir, of your plans. Dr. Beattie's essay
will, of itself, be a treasure. On my part I mean to draw up an
appendix to the Doctor's essay, containing my stock of anecdotes, &c.,
of our Scots songs.
