Page:Whole proceedings of Jocky & Maggy's courtship (1).pdf/22

 Sir James, an‘t please your honour, you manna put me in prison, for I‘m no a malefactor but a poor honest kintryman. that was born under an ill planentplanet [sic], my mither says; I had the ill luck o’ a misfortune to fa‘ foul wi‘ fornication, and got my mither’s lass wi‘ bairn the last year, and they're gaun to father't on me the year.

The Justice, smiling, answered, indeed John, I think it is but very just and reasonable, that you be accountable this year for your last year's labours.

Jock, Aye, aye, Sir, hae laboured very sair since my father died, but our plough canna get gaun for frost these four days.

Just. Aye, but, John, that's no what mean, ‘tis the child you got last year, must be answerable for this

Jock. A-deed, Sir, there was twa them, but there is one o' them dead.

Just. A-well then, John, you’ll have more to give the one that’s alive.

Jock. O but, Sir, it’s my ain wean that's dead, the ane I got wi' my wife; I dinn ken whither the tither he mine or no.

Just. Your's or no, sir! when you me you got it; if you should get it wi' beggar wife at the back o' a dyke,  that to the purpose? When it is of getting, you must maintain it.

Just. O yes, Sir, I'm no refusing to meat and meal to maintain it; but