XXXVI.

SPOKEN,

ON BEING APPOINTED TO THE EXCISE.

[Burns took no pleasure in the name of gauger: the situation was unworthy of him, and he seldom hesitated to say so.]

Searching auld wives' barrels, Och--hon! the day! That clarty barm should stain my laurels; But--what'll ye say! These movin' things ca'd wives and weans Wad move the very hearts o' stanes!

* * * * *