Letter to James King: 16 July 1809
Mr James
King Soldier Capt.
Smith’s Compy Renfrew
Shire Militia Portsmouth Paisley
˄Sunday˄ 16th July 1809 My Dear Friend When
I received yours with the melancholly tidings of poor Robinson’s Death, words
cannot communicate how I fell on the occassion. In my first moments of concern
I could not help telling it to two or three of his acquaintances whom I know
were equally his well-wishers with myself – I began to suspect my imprudency,
well knowing how any thing new flies in the public, and forebore mentioning it
further to any one – however, within the two days it had reachd
his poor old father’s ears – he called on me, hearing that his son was
dead – I saw he had not heard the story in full, and did not let him know any
more than that from your letter there was no doubt of it being true – Next day
a cousin of his called on me who had heard all that I knew – seeing this was
the case – I thought proper to call on his father, and show him your letter,
which at once let him know the extant of my information – it was a most
disagreeable task – but as I thought it might be told him with exaggeration – I
reckoned it right (partly on my own account) to act as I did —— He thanked me
kindly for do˄ing˄ so, wishing me not to spread it any way, and said
he would write immediately to his Captain to know the circumstances – from
which time I have heard no more about it. His
latter end ought to be a warning to us all not to indulge ˄in˄
despondency when any thing ails us – I am sure from your situation you have had
your share of crosses and bitter vexations – but I am equally sure that you
have often [#] Happiness near when you imm Tuesday
18th July – I
have been twice in Glasgow within a forthnight past but did not see Borland –
he is a Sergeant of the Local Militia, and was off both times on their business
– I had an hours conversation with The Author of The
Poor Man’s Sabbath – he is a sterling good fellow. [#] that of the Greenock district, I
forgot by whom. ˄by Southbar˄ but McKerrel is the Hero
of our Paisley lads – Yours &c Robert Tannahill you never told me how the song of “Loudon’s bonnie woods an’
braes” pleases you. } Friday Morning – 21st
Three of our lads have been punished on this morning- The first got 300 – the 2d
100 – and the 3d Copy Text: MS Robertson 1/27 Previous Publications: Notes: |