Note 25 — WALTER HAMILTON, (continued 4)
Reading edition
In the letter which accompanied this song, Professor Blackie stated that “Sam Sumph,” was a great favorite with the Edinburgh Students, but that it had not previously been published. Another great favorite with the Students is the eminent Professor himself, whose handsome presence, and genial character are so well known in Auld Reekie. There is an anecdote related of him, that having to transact some private business one day, he left a label on his door:
“Professor Blackie regrets that he cannot meet his classes to-day.”
A Student coming up effaced the c, and left the message—
“Professor Blackie regrets that he cannot meet his lasses to-day.”
But the Professor, returning sooner than he expected, removed another letter, and the intimation on his door for the rest of the day stood thus:—
“Professor Blackie regrets that he cannot meet his asses to-day.”
Se non e vero, e ben trovato.