with critical observations and biographical notices, by Robert Burns

40
O CAN YE XABOUR LEA, YOUNG MAN.
This song has long been known among the inha-
bitants of Nithsdale and Galloway ^ where it is a
great favourite. The first verse should be restored
to its original state,
I feed a lad at Roodsmass,
Wi' siller pennies three
When he came home at Martinraass,
He could nae labour lea.
O canna ye labour lea, young lad,
O canna ye labour lea ?
Indeed, quo* he, my hand's out
An' up his graith packed he.
This old way is the truest y for the terms. Rood-
mass is the hiring fair, and Hallowmass the first of
the half year.
I feed a man at Martinmass,
Wi' airle-pennies three
But a' the faute I had to him,
He could na labor lea.
J