TO THE REV. JOHN M'MATH
Enclosing a Copy of [Holy Willie's Prayer], which he had requested, September 17, 1785
While at the stook the shearers cow'r shock, reapers
To shun the bitter blaudin' show'r, driving
Or, in gulravage rinnin', scour; horseplay running
To pass the time,
To you I dedicate the hour
In idle rhyme.
My Musie, tir'd wi' mony a sonnet
On gown, an' ban', an' douce black-bonnet, sedate