TO MR. THOMSON.
[The story of Mary Campbell’s love is related in the notes on the songs which the poet wrote in her honour. Thomson says, in his answer, “I have heard the sad story of your Mary; you always seem inspired when you write of her.”]
14th November, 1792.
My Dear Sir,
I agree with you that the song, “Katherine Ogie,” is very poor stuff, and unworthy, altogether unworthy of so beautiful an air. I tried to mend it; but the awkward sound, Ogie, recurring so often in the rhyme, spoils every attempt at introducing sentiment into the piece. The foregoing song[205] pleases myself; I think it as in my happiest manner: you will see at first glance that it suits the air. The subject of the song is one of the most interesting passages of my youthful days, and I own that I should be much flattered to see the verses set to an air which would ensure celebrity. Perhaps, after all, ’tis the still glowing prejudice of my heart that throws a borrowed lustre over the merits of the composition.
I have partly taken your idea of “Auld Rob Morris.” I have adopted the two first verses, and am going on with the song on a new plan, which promises pretty well. I take up one or another, just as the bee of the moment buzzes in my bonnet-lug; and do you, sans ceremonie, make what use you choose of the productions.
Adieu, &c.
R. B.