ashamed of it. Nor do I present this address with the venal soul of a servile Author, looking for a continuation of those favours: I was bred to the plough, and am independent. I come to claim the common Scottish name with you, my illustrious countrymen; and to tell the world that I glory in the title. I come to congratulate my country, that the blood of her ancient heroes still runs uncontaminated; and that from your courage, knowledge, and public spirit, she may expect protection, wealth, and liberty. In the last place, I come to proffer my warmest wishes to the Great Fountain of Honour, the Monarch of the Universe, for your welfare and happiness. turn. When you go forth to waken the Echoes, in the ancient and favourite amusement of your forefathers, may Pleasure ever be of your party; and may Social Joy await your reWhen harassed in courts or camps with the jostlings of bad men and bad measures, may the honest consciousness of injured worth attend your return to your native seats; and may domestic happiness, with a smiling welcome, meet you at your gates! May corruption shrink at your kindling indignant glance; and may tyranny in the Ruler, and licentiousness in the People, equally find you an inexorable foe! I have the honour to be, With the sincerest gratitude, My Lords and Gentlemen, Your most devoted humble servant, EDINBURGH, April 4, 1787. ROBERT BURNS. CONTENTS OF VOLUME FIRST. The Pieces marked thus † are not contained in Dr Currie's edi- On the Death of John M'Leod, Esq. On the Birth of a posthumous child |