Page:Two original poems.pdf/2

 ADVERTISEMENT. HE Author of the two following Poems cannot boaft of the advantages of education, or the endowments of literature. In the humble fphere of life in which he has been deftined to move, learning is far beyond the reach of his ability or leifore.

To pats a few idle hours, when not engaged in the labours of the Leom, and.to amufe a fmall circle of acquaintances, were his fole inducements to attempt thefe verles. They are now offered to the Public, with diffidence and refpect. The Author is confcious that they appear under many difadvantages. But he trufts to the candour and good nature of the Public; and fhould they affign to him a fmall portion of that merit which diftinguifhed his iiluftrious predeceffor of the fame name, his higheft ambition will be gratified. At the fame time the Public voice will determine, whether he ffiall again appear before their tribunal.

Though doom’d by Fortune in the Loom, And time deny’d book-fhelves to loom. Wild warhling fancy, full in bloom, Now fpreads her wing, And burnies, felvag’d a’ wi’ broom, I lang to fing.

ROBERT BURNS.

Hamilton.