11. Song—Here's to thy health my bonie lass

Read '11. Song—Here's to thy health my bonie lass' by 'Robert Burns' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

11. Song—Here's to thy health my bonie lass by Robert Burns

 HERE’S to thy health, my bonie lass,
 Gude nicht and joy be wi’ thee;
I’ll come nae mair to thy bower-door,
 To tell thee that I lo’e thee.
O dinna think, my pretty pink,
 But I can live without thee:
I vow and swear I dinna care,
 How lang ye look about ye.


Thou’rt aye sae free informing me,
 Thou hast nae mind to marry;
I’ll be as free informing thee,
 Nae time hae I to tarry:
I ken thy frien’s try ilka means
 Frae wedlock to delay thee;
Depending on some higher chance,
 But fortune may betray thee.


I ken they scorn my low estate,
 But that does never grieve me;
For I’m as free as any he;
 Sma’ siller will relieve me.
I’ll count my health my greatest wealth,
 Sae lang as I’ll enjoy it;
I’ll fear nae scant, I’ll bode nae want,
 As lang’s I get employment.


But far off fowls hae feathers fair,
 And, aye until ye try them,
Tho’ they seem fair, still have a care;
 They may prove waur than I am.
But at twal’ at night, when the moon shines bright,
 My dear, I’ll come and see thee;
For the man that loves his mistress weel,
 Nae travel makes him weary.

Form: Ballad Comments

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