Page:History of Will & Jean.pdf/14

 Nipped wi' cauld—wi’ hunger fainting— Baith lie speechless on the lea! Help!” quo’ Jennie, loud lamenting— Help my lammies, or they’ll die!”

“Wha thus travels, cauld and hungry, Wi’ young bairns sae late at e’en? Beggars! ” cried the voice mair angry; Beggars! wi’ their brats, I ween."

“Beggars now, alas! who lately Helped the beggar and the poor!” “By! gudeman,” cried ane discreetly, “Taunt nae poortith at our door.”

Sie a night and tale thegither Plead for mair than anger’s din: “Rise Jock,” cried the pitying mither— “Rise, and let the wretched in.”

“Beggars now, alas! who lately Helped the beggar and the poor!” “Enter!” quo’ the youth fu’ sweetly, While up flew the open door:

“Beggar, or what else, sad mourner! Enter without fear or dread; Here, thank God! there’s aye a corner To defend the houseless head.

For your bairnies cease repining; If in life, ye’ll see them soon.” Aff he flew; and brightly shining, Through the dark clouds brak the moon.

Here, for ae night’s kind protection, Leave we Jean and weans a while; Tracing Will in ilk direction, Far frae Britain’s fostering isle.