Author: Anon [J. M'C.]

Publication: The Thistle; or, Literary, Theatrical, and Police reporter

Publisher: J. Aiken & Co.

Published: 24 September 1831

Place of publication: Glasgow, Scotland

Publication type: Newspaper/Periodical

No full copy of this poem is available.

Archive/Library: Glasgow University Library
Classmark(s): Special Collections: Mu60 - f.36
Pages(s): 403-404

This poem was most likely written in response to the pro-reform procession that was held in Glasgow on the 8th of September, 1831.  The Thistle frequently has articles on the pro-reform procession, from a policing pespective, and it generally suggests its support for the events.  Poems of a political nature are very rare in this newspaper though.  The poem is mock dialogue: one firgure starts by asking what is meant by the banners, stating that the group look like they are 'threatening to invade'.  The other figure reveals that the procession is to show that those involved are 'bent upon Reform', and that they have chosen the date they have as it is when the king 'receives his crown'.  A discussion on the boroughmongers follows this, and the poem finishes with a declaration that 'we must be free'.