CHAPTER XIX.
WORKS PUBLISHED IN 1817-18--CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .-- Scott was now beginning to suffer from the terrible mental and bodily strain to which he had subjected himself, and was shortly after seized with the illness to which reference has been made in a previous chapter, and which disabled him for some time.

Blackwood informed Murray (March 7, 1817) that Mr.Scott "has been most dangerously ill, with violent pain arising from spasmodic action in the stomach; but he is gradually getting better." For some time he remained in a state of exhaustion, unable either to stir for weakness and giddiness; or to read, for dazzling in his eyes; or to listen, for a whizzing sound in his ears--all indications of too much brain-work and mental worry.

Yet, as soon as he was able to resume his labours, we find him characteristically employed in helping his poorer friends.
_Mr.Blackwood to John Murray_.
_May_ 28, 1817.
"Mr.Scott and some of his friends, in order to raise a sum of money to make the poor Shepherd comfortable, have projected a fourth edition of "The Queen's Wake," with a few plates, to be published by subscription.
We have inserted your name, as we have no doubt of your doing everything you can for the poor poet.

The advertisement, which is excellent, is written by Mr.Scott." Hogg was tempted by the Duke of Buccleuch's gift of a farm on Eltrive Lake to build himself a house, as Scott was doing, and applied to Murray for a loan of L50, which was granted.

In acknowledging the receipt of the money he wrote: _Mr.James Hogg to John Murray_.
_August_ 11, 1818.
....