And fit his harp the pomp to sing,

Of Scotland's ancient Court and King,

In the succeeding lay.

END OF CANTO FOURTH.

MARMION.

Introduction to Canto Fifth.

A

ΤΟ

GEORGE ELLIS, Esq.

Edinburgh.

WHEN dark December glooms the day,

And takes our autumn joys away;

When short and scant the sun-beam throws,

Upon the weary waste of snows,

A cold and profitless regard,

Like patron on a needy bard;

When sylvan occupation's done,

And o'er the chimney rests the gun,

And hang, in idle trophy, near,

The game-pouch, fishing-rod, and spear;