He did "dash off an article on 'Emma,'" which appeared in No.

27 of the _Quarterly_.

In enclosing his article to Murray, Scott wrote as follows: _Mr.Scott to John Murray_.
_January_ 19, 1816.
Dear Sir, Enclosed is the article upon "Emma." I have been spending my holidays in the country, where, besides constant labour in the fields during all the hours of daylight, the want of books has prevented my completing the Highland article.

(The "Culloden Papers," which appeared in next number.) It will be off, however, by Tuesday's post, as I must take Sunday and Monday into the account of finishing it.

It will be quite unnecessary to send proofs of "Emma," as Mr.Gifford will correct all obvious errors, and abridge it where necessary.
_January_, 25, 1816.
"My article is so long that I fancy you will think yourself in the condition of the conjuror, who after having a great deal of trouble in raising the devil, could not get rid of him after he had once made his appearance.