Notes from The Johnsonville Collection:

Devised 6 April, 2014 following a suggestion by Pat Reesby and Desiree Patterson that I devise a dance based upon the Borders’ Poussette; or possibly, my (mis-)interpretation of the instructions for the Borders’ Poussette. I only learned of this figure from the old book A Complete Guide to Scottish Country Dancing by Allie Anderson and John Duthie (McDougall’s Educational Co, Ltd), where it is called “Poussette Second Form” (pages 30-31). Apparently at the time of the writing of this old edition, this method of dancing the poussette was danced in the South-East Borders Counties. The instructions for bars 6-8 say to quarter turn, hesitate, turn and retire. On reconsideration (as pointed out by Iain Boyd) likely this means continue to turn, and then retire. However, I like the mis-interpretation and kept it for that reason.  

Recommended music is “The Daggs of Craighouse” by Moira Reekie played ABAB, this being the lead tune for “A Tribute to the Borders.” Good recordings include the ones on “Music for Leaflet Dances Vol. 2” by Neil Copland and his Scottish Dance Band, and on “Dancing Live” by The Muriel Johnstone Trio. 