Epistle to Robert Graham of Fintry on the election for the Dumfries string of Boroughs, 1790

On the first page Burns addresses his friend, forewarning him that he is, metaphorically, going to ride 'roughshod' through the contenders for the votes of the populace. On the next page, Burns introduces us to the Whig side of the election fight through the personalities of the Marquis of Queensbury and Sir James Johnstone of Westerhall, Earl of Hopetoun, his patron. It should be noted that in other versions of the poem there are five additional verses quoted between verse three and four of this manuscript.

The poem continues on the third page to introduce Whig supporters such as John McMurdo of Drumlanrig, who encouraged the ladies while his beautiful wife impressed the men. It also mentions Alexander Ferguson of Craigdarroch and Captain Riddle, Burns's neighbour lent their active support.

In the elections of the late 18th century, blood was often spilt between rival factions but in these verses on page four, Burns exaggerates the battle for effect and describes a murderous drive by the Whigs against the embattled Tories. In the fifth page Burns emphasises the roar of the continuing battle as the Tories die before the rushing onslaught of the Whig flood.

On page six the verses describe some Tory supporters but the tide of the contest is running against them 'and furious Whigs pursuing'. Burns continues in the metaphor of furious deadly battle while each side vies for the Dumfries Bouroughs parliamentary seat.

On page seven Burns enumerates some of the Tory grandees, pointing out that even the riches of his daughter in law's father will not buy success for himself. While others are cursing or rejoicing at the outcome, our Bard says, tongue in cheek, it has all nothing to do with him in patient obscurity.

The last page of the manuscript contains the last verse of the poem in which Burns wishes damnation on all who would buy or sell his own dear Scotland.

Robert Burns wrote at least three Epistles to Robert Graham whom he met at Athole House, Blair Atholl in 1787. Burns took to him personally and later, once Graham had become a Commissioner of the Scottish Board of Excise, sought Graham's good offices to get himself a position with the Excise in Dumfries.

This particular manuscript is part of the Afton Manuscript collection. This collection of thirteen poems was presented by Robert to Mrs Alexander Stewart of Stair in 1791.