Page:Interesting history of Robert Burns (1).pdf/17

Rh Burns has traced his own character far better than any one else has done it since.

The affairs of the farm did not long thrive, and, perceiving them going backwards, Burns resolved to enter upon the duties of the Excise. He was accordingly appointed to do duty in that capacity in the district where his own farm was situated. His income was at first only £35, but he still retained Elliesland. During the prosperity of his farm Burns conducted himself wisely, and like one anxious for his name as a man, and his fame as a poet. He went to Dunscore kirk on Sunday, and assisted in forming a reading club. He also paid particular attention to the education of his children, and assisted them greatly himself. Afterwards, however, on the failure of his farming projects, the gloom which preyed on his spirits made him too often not unwilling to become the companion of the thoughtless and the dissipated. Yet, in spite of these follies, Burns was never deserted by that deep feeling of honour and independence of spirit which led him always to detest whatever was mean or base; and none could condemn more severely, or feel deeper compunction and repentance for his errors, than he did himself.

It was unfortunate for Burns that he about this time got embroiled with the Excise, who had been informed of some rash expressions, and it is