with critical observations and biographical notices, by Robert Burns

145
CRAIGIE-BURN WOOD.*
It is remarkable of this air, that it is the con-
fine of that couyitry where the greatest part of our
Lowland music, (so far asfrom the title, words, S^c.
we can localize it,) has been composed. From Crai-
gie-burn, near Moffat, until one reaches the West
Highlands, we have scarcely one slow air of any
antiquity.
The song was composed on a passion which a Mr.
Gillespie, a particular friend of mine, had for a
Miss Lorimer, afterwards a Mrs. Whelpdale.— The
young lady was borfi at Craigie-burn wood.— The
chorus is part of an oldfoolish ballad.—
Beyond thee, dearie, beyond thee, dearie,
And O to be lying beyond thee,
O sweetly, soundly, weel may he sleep,
That's laid in the bed beyond thee-.
* " Craigie-burn wood is situated on the banks of the river
Moffat, and about three miles distant from the village of that
name, celebrated for its medicinal waters. The woods of
Craigie-burn and of Dumcrief, were at one time favourite haunts
of Burns. It was there he met the ** Lassie vri' the lint-white
locks," and that he conceived several of his beautiful lyrics."
VOL. II. L
Dr. Currie,