On Reason build RESOLVE!
That column of true majesty in man,—
and that other favourite one from Thomson's "Alfred"—
What proves the hero truly GREAT,
Is, never, never to despair.
Or, shall I quote you an author of your acquaintance?—
Whether DOING, SUFFERING, or FORBEARING,
You may do miracles by—PERSEVERING.
I have nothing new to tell you. The few friends we have are going on in the old way. I sold my crop on this day se'ennight, and sold it very well. A guinea an acre, on an average, above value. But such a scene of drunkenness was hardly ever seen in this country. After the roup was over, about thirty people engaged in a battle, every man for his own hand, and fought it out for three hours. Nor was the scene much better in the house. No fighting, indeed, but folks lying drunk on the floor, and decanting, until both my dogs got so drunk by attending them, that they could not stand. You will easily guess how I enjoyed the scene, as I was no farther over than you used to see me.
Mrs. B. and family have been in Ayrshire these many weeks.
Farewell! and God bless you, my dear Friend! R.B.
[122] Of Wanlockhead. Burns got to know him during his frequent journeys between Ellisland and Mauchline in 1788-9.