LXXX. Impromptu

LXXIX. To the Men and Brethren of the Masonic Lodge at Tarbolton.

Within your dear mansion may wayward contention
Or withering envy ne’er enter:
May secrecy round be the mystical bound,
And brotherly love be the centre.

Edinburgh, 23 August, 1787.

[The tumbler on which these verses are inscribed by the diamond of Burns, found its way to the hands of Sir Walter Scott, and is now among the treasures of Abbotsford.]

You’re welcome, Willie Stewart,
You’re welcome, Willie Stewart;
There’s ne’er a flower that blooms in May,
That’s half sae welcome’s thou art.

Come bumpers high, express your joy,
The bowl we maun renew it;
The tappit-hen, gae bring her ben,
To welcome Willie Stewart.

My foes be strang, and friends be slack,
Ilk action may he rue it,
May woman on him turn her back,
That wrongs thee, Willie Stewart.