[A composite volume : containing The ballads and songs of Ayrshire ...

PRESTWICK DRUM.
near the close of the seventeenth century. When about to depart,
he warned those around him not to remain in the Castle after his
body was carried out ; and it being autumn, he further recommended
them not to bury him until the harvest should be completed ; because
on the day of his interment a fearful storm would ensue. He was
accordingly kept as long as the putrid state of his remains admitted ;
still the harvest was not above half finished. True as the Laird's
prediction, the moment the body, on the funeral day, had cleared the
doorway, a loud crash was heard—the Castle roof had fallen in.
The
wind rose with unexampled fury ; the sheafs of corn were scattered
like chaiF, and much damage was sustained over the land.
^rtstfajicfe
Brum.
Air— " Aiken Drum," very ancient and peculiar to Scotland.
At Gloamin' grey,
The close o' day.
When saftly sinks the village hum,
Nor far nor near,
Nought meets the ear.
But, aiblins, Prest'ick drum.
Nae bluidy battle it betides.
Nor sack, nor siege, nor aught besides ;
Twa guid sheep skins, wi' oaken sides.
An' leather lugs aroun'.
In days o' yore.
When to our shore.
For aid the gallant Bruce did come,
His lieges leal.
Did tak' the fiel',
An' march'd to Prest'ick drum.
Gude service aften is forgot,
An' favour's won by crafty plot.
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