And I will no more verses make.
A similar anecdote is told of Ovid, the Latin poet:
Parce, precor, genitor, posthac non versificabo.
Wauch (Mansie), fictitious name of D. M. Moir, author of The Life of Mansie Wauch, Tailor in Dalkeith, written by himself (1828).
Waverley, the first of Scott’s historical novels, published in 1814. The materials are Highland feudalism, military bravery, and description of natural scenery. There is a fine vein of humor, and a union of fiction with history. The chief characters are Charles Edward, the Chevalier, the noble old baron of Bradwardine, the simple, faithful clansman, Evan Dhu, and the poor fool, Davie Gellatley, with his fragments of song and scattered gleams of fancy.
Scott did not prefix his name to Waverley, being afraid that it might compromise his poetical reputation.--Chambers, English Literature, ii. 586.
Waverley (Captain Edward), of Waverley Honor, and hero of the novel called by his name. Being gored by a stag, he resigned his commission, and proposed marriage to Flora M’Ivor, but was not accepted. Fergus M’Ivor (Flora’s brother) introduced him to Prince Charles Edward. He entered the service of the Young Chevalier, and in the battle of Preston Pans saved the life of Colonel Talbot. The colonel, out of gratitude, obtained the pardon of young Waverley, who then married Rose Bradwardine, and settled down quietly in Waverley Honor.
Mr. Richard Waverley, the captain’s father, of Waverley Honor.
Sir Everard Waverley, the captain’s uncle.
Mistress Rachel Waverley, sister of Sir Everard.--Sir W. Scott, Waverley (time, George II.).