Letter from Robert Burns to Mr David Sillars

My dear Sir,

I am extremely sorry to hear of your misfortune, & the more so, as it is not in
my power to give you any assistance. - I am just five shillings rich at present; tho' I was considerably richer three days ago, when I was obliged to pay twenty pounds for a man who took me in, to save a rotten credit. - I heedlessly
gave him my name on the back of a bill where -in I have no concern, & he - gave me the bill to pay. - To write you a long letter, of news would by insult your present unfortunate feelings; I trust your many rich & powerful friends will enable you to get clear of that flinty-hearted scoundrel, whose name I detest. -

Yours,
R. Burns