The Book of Scottish Song/Jessie

Jessie.

[This exquisite little song was among the last Burns ever wrote. It was composed in honour of Jessie Lewars (now Mrs. Thomson of Dumfries,) the sister of a brother exciseman of the poet's, and one who has endeared her name to posterity by the affectionate solicitude with which she tended Burns during his last illness.]

Here's a health to ane I lo'e dear—
Here's a health to ane I lo'e dear;
Thou art sweet as the smile when kind lovers meet,
And soft as their parting tear, Jessie!

Although thou maun never be mine—
Although even hope is denied—
'Tis sweeter for thee despairing
Than aught in the world beside, Jessie!

I mourn through the gay gaudy day,
As hopeless I muse on thy charms;
But welcome the dream o' sweet slumber,
For then I am lock'd in thy arms, Jessie!

I guess by the dear angel smile,
I guess by the love-rolling e'e;
But why urge the tender confession,
'Gainst fortune's fell cruel decree, Jessie!

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