Helen of Kirkconnel

The one vowed to sacrifice the successful rival to his resentment, and watched an opportunity while the happy pair were sitting on the banks of the Kirtle, that washes these grounds.

Helen perceived the desperate lover on the opposite side, and fondly thinking to save her favourite, interposed; and, receiving the wound intended for her beloved, fell and expired in his arms.

He instantly avenged her death; then fled into Spain, and served for some time against the Infidels: on his return, he visited the grave of his unfortunate mistress, stretched himself on it, and expiring on the spot, was interred by her side.

A cross and a sword are engraven on the tombstone, with 'HIC JACET ADAMUS FLEMING'; the only memorial of this unhappy gentleman, except an ancient ballad which records the tragical event.It was published by Scott as "Fair Helen of Kirconnell".

If I were with thee I were blest, Where thou lies low, and takes thy rest, On fair Kirconnell Lea.

I wish my grave were growing green, A winding sheet drawn ower my een, And I in Helen's arms lying, On fair Kirconnell Lea.