XVI.-TO MR. JAMES SMITH[12], SHOPKEEPER, MAUCHLINE.
[
Spring of
1786.]
... Against two things I am fixed as fate,—staying at home, and owning her conjugally. The first, by Heaven, I will not do!—the last, by Hell, I will never do! A good God bless you, and make you happy up to the warmest weeping wish of parting friendship! ... If you see Jean tell her I will meet her, so help me God in my hour of need! R. B.
[12] The confidant of his amour with Jean Armour, daughter of James Armour, mason, Mauchline. Notwithstanding the blustering threat—for which Smith was probably more than half responsible—Burns was afterwards content to "own bonny Jean conjugally."
XVII.—TO MR. ROBERT MUIR, WINE MERCHANT, KlLMARNOCK.
MOSSGIEL, 20