Page:The Lay of the Last Minstrel - Scott (1805).djvu/234

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225

difficulty of subjecting so hard a substance to such intricate and exquisite modulation. This superb convent was dedicated to St Mary, and the monks were of the Cistercian order. At the time of the Reformation, they shared in the general reproach of sensuality and irregularity thrown upon the Roman churchmen. The old words of Galashiels, a favourite Scottish air, ran thus:

O the monks of Melrose made gude kale[1]
On Fridays when they fasted;
They never wanted beef nor ale
As long as their neighbour's lasted.

  1. Kale, Broth.