Author: Anon

Publication: Abercromby's Answer, or The Exchequer Garland. Another Excellent New Song

Published: 1832

Place of publication: Edinburgh, Scotland

Publication type: Broadside

Featured individuals:
James Abercromby (1776-1858)
James Aytoun (1797-1881)

A full copy of this poem is available.

Further information:
http://digital.nls.uk/broadsides/broadside.cfm/id/16497

This poem has a set tune, and its title is:
The Arethusa.

Archive/Library: Glasgow University Library
Classmark(s): Special Collections: Eph p/1131

Above the poem appears a woodblock illustration of a man riding a horse.  The poem attempts to convince the reader not to vote for the radical candidate for Edinburgh, James Aytoun, and instead to vote for the Whig - James Abercromby.  Although no date is given for this poem, it must be 1832 as this was the only time that Aytoun and Abercromby were competitors for the Edinburgh seats.  The poem makes a direct plea to Reformers to 'stand by me'.  The poem reflects the wider poltical context: following the passing of the 1832 reform bills, many voters experienced a conflict between continuing to support the Whigs and pursuing more radical change.