CCLX.
Reading edition
CHLORIS.
Tune—“Caledonian Hunt’s Delight.”
[“I am at present,” says Burns to Thomson, when he communicated these verses, “quite occupied with the charming sensations of the toothache, so have not a word to spare—such is the peculiarity of the rhythm of this air, that I find it impossible to make another stanza to suit it.” This is the last of his strains in honour of Chloris.]
I.
Why, why tell thy lover, Bliss he never must enjoy: Why, why undeceive him, And give all his hopes the lie?
II.
O why, while fancy raptured, slumbers, Chloris, Chloris all the theme, Why, why wouldst thou, cruel, Wake thy lover from his dream?