The Selkirk Grace

Although the "Selkirk Grace" is attributed to Robert Burns, a version of this stanza was known in the 17th century as the Galloway Grace or the Covenanters' Grace and was said in Lallans (the Lowland Scots dialect). It is this version (version (1) below) which is usually used at Burns Suppers. Traditionally, Burns is said to have delivered an extempore version in Standard English at a dinner given by the Earl of Selkirk

version(2)

   Selkirk Grace (1)

Some hae meat and canna eat,

   And some wad eat that want it;

But we hae meat, and we can eat,

   Sae let the Lord be thankit.

   Selkirk Grace (2)

Some have meat and cannot eat,

   Some cannot eat that want it;

But we have meat and we can eat,

   So let the Lord be thankit.