Note 510:1 — Chapter XVII · (continued 2)
Reading edition
Colonel Edmondstoune's letter has been preserved, and is as follows:—
"Linlithgow, Wednesday.
"My dear, dear David,—My heart is very full. I could not see you this morning. I thought it was better for us both. You can't die, you must live in the memory of all your friends and acquaintances, and your works will render you immortal. I could never conceive that it was possible for any one to dislike you or hate you. He must be more than savage who could be an enemy to a man of the best head and heart, and of the most amiable manners.
O toi, qui de mon ame es la chère moitié; Toi, qui joins la délicatesse Des sentimens d'une maitresse À la solidité d'une sure amitié, David, il faut bien-tôt que la parque cruelle Vienne rompre des si doux noeuds, Et malgré nos cris et nos voeux Bien-tôt nous assuirons une absence eternelle.
Adieu! adieu!"—MS. R.S.E.