MRS. HYSLOP, daughter of Mr. Geddes of Leith, happened to meet Burns one day in the streets of Dumfries, and was affected by his appearance. He stopped more than was his wont; his dress, about which he used to be rather nice, was disordered and shabby, and he bore on his face the stamp of internal sorrow. The meeting was cordial and warm. On parting he wrung her brother, who accompanied her, earnestly by the hand, turned half-away from him and said:-
“I am going to ruin as fast as I can; the best I can do is to go consistently.”