Robert Burns - The Letters.

XII.—TO THOMAS ORR, PARK, KIRKOSWALD.

DEAR THOMAS,—I am much obliged to you for your last letter, though I assure you the contents of it gave me no manner of concern. I am presently so cursedly taken in with an affair of gallantry that I am very glad Peggy^[7] is off my hand, as I am at present embarrassed enough^[7a] without her. I don't choose to enter into particulars in writing, but never was a poor rakish rascal in a more pitiful taking. I should be glad to see you to tell you the affair.—Meanwhile I am your friend, ROBERT BURNESS.

MOSSGAVIL, 11th Nov. 1784.

[7] Peggy Thomson.

[7a] Birth of his illegitimate child by Elizabeth Paton, once a servant with his father at Lochlie.