CCCXVII.
Reading edition
TO MR. THOMSON.
[The unexampled brevity of Burns’s letters, and the extraordinary flow and grace of his songs, towards the close of his life, have not now for the first time been remarked.]
Such is the peculiarity of the rhythm of this air, that I find it impossible to make another stanza to suit it.
I am at present quite occupied with the charming sensations of the toothache, so have not a word to spare.
R. B.