Transcript in the hand of
James
Beattie
, annotated in his hand "A note which I
find in a Memorandum-book of Mr Gray's 1754
will best explain the
intended plan of this beautiful Lyrical fragment, and will give the
poetical reader how he meant to conclude it. "Contrast between the
winter past and coming spring – Joy owing to that vicissitude
– many who never feel that delight – Sloth - Envy - Ambition
– how much happier the Rustick who feels it though he knows not
how.""