Your Highness' good Cousin and Friend,Charles Rex.
Your Highness' good Cousin and Friend,Charles Rex.
Your Highness' good Cousin and Friend,
Charles Rex.
No. X.
Charles by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, &c. &. &c.
Charles by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, &c. &. &c.
To the most eminent Prince, the Lord Nicholas Cottoner, Grand Master of the Order of Malta, our very dear cousin and friend, Greeting:
We apprehend that long since it must have come to the knowledge of your eminence, that a vessel of war of our Royal fleet, named the "Sapphire," went ashore some months ago on the coasts of Sicily; and was so much damaged, that she became entirely unseaworthy. We have however heard, that some guns which belonged to the said ship have been taken to the island of Malta, and there preserved. Having, in consequence, ordered our well-beloved and faithful subject Rudolf Montague, the Master of the Horse of our most serene Consort, and our Minister near his most Christian Majesty, to send there some fitting person to inquire after any remains of the said wreck, and to depose of them in a manner most advantageous to Us, we, as friends, beg your eminence to be pleased to interpose your authority; so that the persons already sent, or hereafter to be sent by our said Minister, may experience no delays nor impediments, but rather find all favour and due aid from each and every chief of the arsenal, ports and customs, and other officers to whom it may appertain; which we, in a similar case, will endeavour fully to reciprocate to your eminence.
In the mean time we recommend, with all our heart, your eminence to the protection of the Most Good and Most Great God.
Given from our Palace of Whitehall, on the 28th day of November, 1670.
Your Eminence's good Cousin and Friend,Charles Rex.
Your Eminence's good Cousin and Friend,Charles Rex.
Your Eminence's good Cousin and Friend,
Charles Rex.
Not having met with the following account in any English newspaper, of a phenomenon said to have been witnessed quite recently in Germany, I beg to send you a translation from theAllgemeine Zeitung(generally quoted in England by the name of theAugsburgh Gazette) of February 13, detailing, in a communication from Westphalia, the particulars of a phenomenon, new, perhaps, to your pages, but by no means new to the world.
"Westphalia.—If the east has itsFata Morgana, we, in Westphalia, have also quite peculiar natural phenomena, which, hitherto, it has been as impossible to explain satisfactorily, as to deny. A rare and striking appearance of this description forms now the subject of universal talk and comment in our province. On the 22nd of last month a surprising prodigy of nature was seen by many persons at Büderich, a village between Unna and Werl. Shortly before sunset, an army, of boundless extent, and consisting of infantry, cavalry, and an enormous number of waggons, was observed to proceed across the country in marching order. So distinctly seen were all these appearances, that even the flashing of the firelocks, and the colour of the cavalry uniform, which was white, could be distinguished. This whole array advanced in the direction of the wood of Schafhauser, and as the infantry entered the thicket, and the cavalry drew near, they were hid all at once, with the trees, in a thick smoke. Two houses, also, in flames, were seen with the same distinctness. At sunset the whole phenomenon vanished. As respects the fact, government has taken the evidence of fifty eye witnesses, who have deposed to a universal agreement respecting this most remarkable appearance. Individuals are not wanting who affirm that similar phenomena were observed in former times in this region. As the fact is so well attested as to place the phenomenon beyond the possibility of successful disproof, people have not been slow in giving a meaning to it, and in referring it to the great battle of the nations at Birkenbaum, to which the old legend, particularly since 1848, again points."
"Westphalia.—If the east has itsFata Morgana, we, in Westphalia, have also quite peculiar natural phenomena, which, hitherto, it has been as impossible to explain satisfactorily, as to deny. A rare and striking appearance of this description forms now the subject of universal talk and comment in our province. On the 22nd of last month a surprising prodigy of nature was seen by many persons at Büderich, a village between Unna and Werl. Shortly before sunset, an army, of boundless extent, and consisting of infantry, cavalry, and an enormous number of waggons, was observed to proceed across the country in marching order. So distinctly seen were all these appearances, that even the flashing of the firelocks, and the colour of the cavalry uniform, which was white, could be distinguished. This whole array advanced in the direction of the wood of Schafhauser, and as the infantry entered the thicket, and the cavalry drew near, they were hid all at once, with the trees, in a thick smoke. Two houses, also, in flames, were seen with the same distinctness. At sunset the whole phenomenon vanished. As respects the fact, government has taken the evidence of fifty eye witnesses, who have deposed to a universal agreement respecting this most remarkable appearance. Individuals are not wanting who affirm that similar phenomena were observed in former times in this region. As the fact is so well attested as to place the phenomenon beyond the possibility of successful disproof, people have not been slow in giving a meaning to it, and in referring it to the great battle of the nations at Birkenbaum, to which the old legend, particularly since 1848, again points."
J. Macray.
Any person might naturally be led to suppose, on seeing the many costly and learned works which, within the last few years, have appeared on the subject of monumental brasses, that their value was now fully appreciated, and that all due care was taken to ensure their preservation, or at least prevent their wanton destruction. But, unhappily, such is far from being the case; and though rubbings of brasses are to be found in every antiquarian society, and in the possession of very many private individuals, the churchwardens and other parties on whom their preservation principally depends, are for the most part wilfully blind to their importance as historical memorials, and with impunity allow them to be mutilated or stolen. In many of our country, and I may also add town churches, are these interesting records of the dead stowed away as useless lumber in the vestry, or hidden by some ugly modern pew. The writer wishes to make known, through the medium of your valuable journal, some instances which have fallen under his own observation, in the hope that those who read may make some exertions to rectify such acts of desecration were they have already occurred, and to prevent their future recurrence.
To begin, then, with the most important as regards the loss incurred by the antiquary, though all show an equal want of good feeling and neglect of things sacred, I will first offer the substance of a few notes taken during a recent excursion to Cobham, Kent. The brasses in this church have long been noted as presenting some of the most interesting early examples of this species of monument, extending from the year 1320 to 1529. They exemplify almost every variety of costume that prevailed during that period, executed with the most artistic skill, and accompanied with the most elegant accessories in the shape of canopies, brackets, and allegorical designs. Imagine, then, the feelings of the antiquary, who, upon approaching the chancel where most of these brasses lie, finds that it is flooded with water! The roof has gradually fallen to decay, and the Earl of Darnley, whose property the chancel is, has refused to repair it. And yet this same nobleman can spend thousands of pounds in adorning his seat, Cobham Hall, the ancient domain of the family, in whose commemoration most of these brasses are laid down. I may also here mention that part of the rood-screen which forms the back of the earl's pew has been glazed, in order, I suppose, to keep out the damp of the chancel, while a portion on the other side has been entirely cut away. This is by far the most flagrant case of neglect which I have ever witnessed; but there are several minor instances which well demand exposure. At Mendlesham, Suffolk, is a fine large figure of John Knyvet, Esq., in armour, almost entirely concealed by a pew passing up the whole length of the brass. Now, for a very little expense, the slab might be removed and laid down again the chancel. At Polstead, in the same county, is a small brass of a civilian and family, date about 1490, hidden in the same manner; and a figure of a priest in the chasuble, lying loose in the vestry. Also at Little Waldingfield is a brass in memory of Robert Appleton and wife, 1526, of which the male figure is covered by a pew. In Upminster Church, Essex, were found, not very long since, during the progress of some alterations, two loose female figures under the flooring of a pew, which are still left to be tossed about in the vestry. One is an elegant figure of a lady in heraldic mantle and horned head-dress, with a dog at her feet, date about 1450, the other about 1630. At St. James's, Colchester, the head of a figure was long left loose, till at last it has been stolen. And, to conclude, pews have lately been built over two brasses at Margate, one of which is an early example of a skeleton. To these instances, which have fallen under my own observation, I doubt not that every collector can add several others of the same description; but these are sufficient to show the wide extent of the evil, and the necessity of correction.
F. G.
My dear Sir William Drummond.—The perusal of your beautiful poemOdinhas delighted me so much, that I cannot deny myself the gratification of expressing my thanks to its author; and at the same time demanding, why so exquisite a poem remains unfinished?
It is cruel to your readers, and unjust to England, to leave such a work incomplete; it is like the unfinished statues of Michael Angelo, which no hand has ever been found hardy enough to touch, for I am persuaded that we have no living poet who could write a sequel toOdin.
Do not think me presumptuous for venturing to give my opinion on poetry; I have studied it from my infancy, and my admiration for it is so enthusiastic, that I feel more strongly than I can reason on the subject. With this passion for poetry, you can more easily imagine than I can describe, the delight thatOdingave me. I have copied many passages from it in my Album under different heads: such as Contemplation; Love of Country; Liberty; Winter; Morning; Meditation on a Future State; Immortality of the Soul; Superstition; Vanity of Life; Jealousy; and many others too numerous to mention. And they are of such transcendent merit, as to be above all comparison, except with Shakspeare orMilton. In the sublimity and harmony of your verses, you have equalled, if not surpassed, the latter; and in originality of ideas and variety, you strikingly resemble the former; but neither call boast of anything superior to your beautiful episode of "Skiold and Nora."
Hitherto, my dear Sir William Drummond, I have looked on you as one of the first scholars and most elegant prose writers of the age; but, at present, permit me to say that I regard you as thefirst poet.
When I have been charmed with the productions of writers, who were either personally unknown to me, or unhappily dead, how have I regretted not being able to pour out my thanks for the pleasure they had afforded me: in this instance I rejoice that I have the happiness of knowing you, and of being able to express, though feebly, the admiration with which your genius inspires me; and of offering up my fervent prayers that you may be long spared to adorn and do honour to the age which is, and ought to be, proud to claim you. In writing to you I abandon my pen to the guidance of my heart, which feels with all the warmth for whichIrish heartsare so remarkable. Apoetcan understand and pardon this Irish warmth, though aphilosophermight condemn it; but in addressing you, I forget that I am writing to one of the most eminent of the last class, and only remember that I am talking ofOdinto the most admirable of the first.
I am at present readingAcademical Questions, which, ifI daretake possession of, should not again find their way to Chiaja;OdinI shall mostunwillinglyresign, as I find it belongs to Lady Drummond; but if you have any other of your works by you, will you have the goodness to lend them to me? Pray name what day you will dine with us, accompanied by Mr. Stewart, to whom I owe my best acknowledgments for having lent meOdin.
Believe me,My dear Sir William Drummond, to beWith unfeigned esteem,Sincerely yours,Marguerite Blessington.Villa Gallo, April 24th, 1825.
Believe me,My dear Sir William Drummond, to beWith unfeigned esteem,Sincerely yours,Marguerite Blessington.Villa Gallo, April 24th, 1825.
Believe me,
My dear Sir William Drummond, to be
With unfeigned esteem,
Sincerely yours,
Marguerite Blessington.
Villa Gallo, April 24th, 1825.
The above Letter is copied from the original in my possession.
A. G.
Edinburgh.
The late Judge Talfourd.—Some years since I ventured to request information as to the proper way of pronouncing theElia, from the talented and kind-hearted Judge Talfourd, whose days have just been brought to a close under such truly awful circumstances. The ready reply which he gave to an unknown inquirer, whilst it illustrates the courtesy and cordiality of his character, may prove interesting to your readers.
Temple, June 15, 1838.
Sir,
Sir,
Sir,
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 11th, and to express my pleasure at finding that you sympathise with me in genial admiration of the delightful person to whom it refers. All I know respecting the signature ofEliawill be found at p. 65 of the second volume of Lamb's Letters. It was the real name of a coxcombical clerk thirty years dead, whom Lamb remembered at the South Sea House, and prefixed to his first essay (which was on the "Old South Sea House") in theLondon Magazine. The editor afterwards used it to distinguish Lamb's articles, and he finally adopted it. Theiis short (ElÄa). It is an Italian name.
I have the honour to be,Sir,Your obedient and faithful servant,T. N. Talfourd.
I have the honour to be,Sir,Your obedient and faithful servant,T. N. Talfourd.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient and faithful servant,
T. N. Talfourd.
C. W. B.
Authors' Trustee Society.—Authors, as a class, are perhaps the most unfit men in the world to make the most of their own property; and were they ever so competent, it will often happen that their works do not attain to any great value as copyrights till after the poor author is laid in his grave. It is then, when his family are sometimes exposed to severe distress, that more favourable terms might be obtained from publishers; but there is no one left who is capable of acting for the benefit of the widow or children.
A Society might be formed to take charge as trustees of the property of an author in his works, to make engagements with booksellers for the privilege of publishing future editions as they may be required, and to take care that thehonorariumfor each edition be duly paid into the hands of the person who is entitled to receive it.
No expense would attend the formation of such a Society. Its meetings could be held at scarcely any cost. The advertisements, to announce from time to time what works are open for offers from printers, booksellers, and publishers, would amount to a very small sum in the course of the year—I dare say the Editor of "N. & Q." would insert them gratuitously. But, if necessary, a small percentage on the fees paid would cover all the disbursements of the Society.
L. P. K.
The Old Clock at Alderley.—In the investigation of this very old and curious piece of mechanism by the Rev. Joseph Bockett, in the year 1833, an inscription was found signifying that it was presented to the church of Alderley by the great Sir Matthew Hale. It was copied,verbatimet literatim, by the said reverend gentleman, and is as follows:
"This is the Guift of the Right Honourable the Lord Cheif Justice Heale to the Parish Church of Alderly. John Mason, Bristol, Fecit, Novēm. 1st1673."
"This is the Guift of the Right Honourable the Lord Cheif Justice Heale to the Parish Church of Alderly. John Mason, Bristol, Fecit, Novēm. 1st1673."
It appears, by this inscription, to have been presented on his birth-day; which, from his tomb, was found to be November 1. Alderley is the family place of the Hale family to this day.
Julia R. Bockett.
Southcote Lodge.
The Olympic Plain, &c.—The success which has attended the excavations of Dr. Layard at Nineveh, has rekindled the curiosity of the antiquary and the classical scholar with regard to the buried remains of ancient Greece and Rome:
"The Tiber at Rome," Dodwell says, "is supposed to contain a vast assemblage of ancient sculpture; and thoughts are entertained of turning its course, in order to explore its hidden treasures."
"The Tiber at Rome," Dodwell says, "is supposed to contain a vast assemblage of ancient sculpture; and thoughts are entertained of turning its course, in order to explore its hidden treasures."
The same distinguished traveller remarks (Classical and Topog. Tour through Greece) that—
"It was a favourite plan of the learned Winkelmann to raise a subscription for the excavation of the Olympic plain. If such a project should ever be consummated, we may confidently hope that the finest specimens of sculpture, as well as the most curious and valuable remains, will be brought to light. No place abounded with such numerous offerings to the gods, and with such splendid and beautiful representations in marble and in bronze."
"It was a favourite plan of the learned Winkelmann to raise a subscription for the excavation of the Olympic plain. If such a project should ever be consummated, we may confidently hope that the finest specimens of sculpture, as well as the most curious and valuable remains, will be brought to light. No place abounded with such numerous offerings to the gods, and with such splendid and beautiful representations in marble and in bronze."
Alpha.
Oxford.
Electric Telegraph.—Might not the telegraph be made serviceable in remote country districts, by connecting detached residences with the nearest police station; to which an alarm might be conveyed in cases of danger from thieves or fire? There are many who would willingly incur the expense for the sake of the security, and no doubt all details could be easily arranged.
Thinks I to Myself.
Irish Law in the Eighteenth Century.—I send, for the information of the readers of "N. & Q.," the following extract from Reilly'sDublin News Letter, Aug. 9, 1740:
"Last week, at the assizes of Kilkenny, a fellow who was to be tried for robbery not pleading, a jury was appointed to try whether he was wilfully mute, or by the hands of God; and they giving a verdict that he was wilfully mute, he was condemned to be pressed to death. He accordingly suffered on Wednesday, pursuant to his sentence, which was as follows: that the criminal shall be confined in some low dark room, where he shall be laid on his back, with no covering except round his loins, and shall have as much weight laid upon him as he can bear, and more; that he shall have nothing to live upon but the worst bread and water; and the day that he eats, he shall not drink; and the day that he drinks, he shall not eat; and so shall continue till he dies."
"Last week, at the assizes of Kilkenny, a fellow who was to be tried for robbery not pleading, a jury was appointed to try whether he was wilfully mute, or by the hands of God; and they giving a verdict that he was wilfully mute, he was condemned to be pressed to death. He accordingly suffered on Wednesday, pursuant to his sentence, which was as follows: that the criminal shall be confined in some low dark room, where he shall be laid on his back, with no covering except round his loins, and shall have as much weight laid upon him as he can bear, and more; that he shall have nothing to live upon but the worst bread and water; and the day that he eats, he shall not drink; and the day that he drinks, he shall not eat; and so shall continue till he dies."
Is it to be believed that, so late as the 1740, such barbarity (to call it nothing worse) was practised according to law within the limits of Great Britain and Ireland? I would be glad to hear from some correspondent upon the subject.
Abhba.
Gravestone Inscriptions.—In the churchyard of Homersfield (St. Mary, Southelmham), Suffolk, was the gravestone of Robert Crytoft, who died Nov. 17, 1810, aged ninety, bearing the following epitaph:
"Myself.As I walk'd by myself I talk'd to myself,And thus myself said to me,Look to thyself and take care of thyself,For nobody cares for thee.So I turn'd to myself, and I answer'd myselfIn the self-same reverie,Look to myself or look not to myself,The self-same thing will it be."
"Myself.As I walk'd by myself I talk'd to myself,And thus myself said to me,Look to thyself and take care of thyself,For nobody cares for thee.So I turn'd to myself, and I answer'd myselfIn the self-same reverie,Look to myself or look not to myself,The self-same thing will it be."
"Myself.
As I walk'd by myself I talk'd to myself,
And thus myself said to me,
Look to thyself and take care of thyself,
For nobody cares for thee.
So I turn'd to myself, and I answer'd myself
In the self-same reverie,
Look to myself or look not to myself,
The self-same thing will it be."
This stone was some years since taken up, and has remained standing in the church tower. I know not whether the lines be original, but I have never seen them elsewhere.
The following were and may be now in St. Stephen's churchyard, Ipswich, on the stone of one Stephen Manister, clerk to Mr. Baron Thompson, who died in 1731, and by his will desired the following words to be there inscribed:
"What I gave I have, wtI spent I had,What I left I lost for want of giving it."
"What I gave I have, wtI spent I had,What I left I lost for want of giving it."
"What I gave I have, wtI spent I had,
What I left I lost for want of giving it."
G. A. C.
Paintings of Our Saviour.—In Mrs. Jameson'sLegends of the Monastic Orders, it is stated that "The painter, Andrea Vanni, was among the devout admirers of St. Catherine;" and that "among his works was a head of Christ, said to have been painted under the immediate instruction of St. Catherine; representing the Saviour as she had, in her visions, beheld him. Unhappily this has perished." Also, on the authority of Mr. Sterling, that St. Juan de la Cruz, the friend of St. Theresa, "on one occasion when the Saviour appeared to him, made an uncouth sketch of the divine apparition; which was long preserved as a relique in the Convent of the Incarnation at Avila."
Can any of your readers supply particulars of, or references to, other similar portraitures, especially of any still in existence?
J. P.
Heraldic.—Can any of your heraldic correspondents inform me to what families the following coat of arms belongs:—Gules, a fess sanguine between three trefoils slipped proper? There is in this the not very frequent occurrence of a coloured charge upon a coloured field. The only similar instance I now remember is Denham, Suffolk: Gules, a cross vert.
Loccan.
Dedication of Kemerton Church.—The church at Kemerton, Gloucestershire, was, until a few years ago, marked by the authorities with a blank, just as the church of Middleton ("N. & Q.," Vol. v., p. 372.); but it has now been discovered, it would appear, to have been dedicated toSt. Nicholas. How, or where?
I. R. R.
Consolato del Mare.—The maritime code of the Venetians derived from Barcelona, observed also by the Genoese and Pisans, was called "Consolato del Mare,"A.D.1200. Why was it so called?
R. H. G.
Consonants in Welsh.—It has often been asserted that the Welsh language is remarkable for the number of its consonants. Can any of your readers acquainted with that language inform me whether there is a larger proportion of consonants in Welsh than in English? Messrs. Chambers, in a recent number of theirRepository, say:
"On the road to Merthyr, we heard a drunken Welshman swear; oh for words to describe the effect! His mouth seemed full of consonants, which cracked and cracked, and ground and exploded, in an extraordinary way," &c.
"On the road to Merthyr, we heard a drunken Welshman swear; oh for words to describe the effect! His mouth seemed full of consonants, which cracked and cracked, and ground and exploded, in an extraordinary way," &c.
Is this a true representation of the case?
J. M.
"Initiative" and "Psychology."—
" ... a previous act and conception of the mind, or what we have called aninitiative, is indispensably necessary, even to the mere semblance of method."—Coleridge'sTreatise on Method.
" ... a previous act and conception of the mind, or what we have called aninitiative, is indispensably necessary, even to the mere semblance of method."—Coleridge'sTreatise on Method.
Am I to understand from this sentence that this word was an original adaptation of Coleridge's? If not, when was it first introduced, and by whom?
In the same treatise, Coleridge employs the wordpsychological, and apologises for using aninsolens verbum. Was this the first occasion of the familiar use of this word? I findpsychologyin Bailey.
C. Mansfield Ingleby.
Birmingham.
Atonement.—Can you or any of your readers inform me when the word "atonement" first came into use, and when it was first applied to the work of reconciliation wrought by our Lord Jesus Christ? It is used once only in the New Testament (Romans v. 11.), and there the word does not quite convey the meaning of the originalκαταλλαγη. The etymology of it seems so purely English, that one would hardly expect to find the present use, or rather adaptation, of the word, so very modern as it appears to be.
J. H. B.
Sir Stephen Fox.—Chambers'Journal, No. 515., Nov. 12, 1853, p. 320., says:
"Charles James Fox, who died in 1806, at the age of fifty-seven, had an uncle who was paymaster of the forces in 1679, the year of the battle of Bothwell Bridge, and his grandfather was on the scaffold with Charles I."
"Charles James Fox, who died in 1806, at the age of fifty-seven, had an uncle who was paymaster of the forces in 1679, the year of the battle of Bothwell Bridge, and his grandfather was on the scaffold with Charles I."
After consulting several books on the subject, I find that this latter statement is just possible; but I cannot learn under what circumstances Sir Stephen Fox accompanied Charles I. to the scaffold. Can any of your readers give me the desired information?
N. J. A.
"Account of an Expedition to the Interior of New Holland."—Can any one tell me the name of the writer of a book with the title I have here given? It was edited by Lady Mary Fox, and published, in one vol. 8vo., by Bentley, in the year 1837. I may be mistaken, but I think I can recognise the style of a well-known writer.
Abhba.
Darwin on Steam.—Where are the prophetic lines by Dr. Darwin to be found, commencing:
"Soon shall thy power, unrivalledsteam, from farDrag the slow barge, and urge the rapid car."
"Soon shall thy power, unrivalledsteam, from farDrag the slow barge, and urge the rapid car."
"Soon shall thy power, unrivalledsteam, from far
Drag the slow barge, and urge the rapid car."
Uneda.
Philadelphia.
Scottish Female Dress.—When did ladies cease to use hair-powder, face-patches, hoops, and high-heeled shoes? An old lady of about seventy recollects perfectly that her mother wore then all (so, she thinks, did her visitors, who came to a dish of tea) except the hoop, which was reserved for grand occasions. On the introduction of the new-fangled low-heeled shoes, she recollects her mother tottering about on them like a novice on skates, and groaning with pains in her legs, a victim to a change of fashion! At this time, she adds, was in every-day use themilk tallyandbread-nick-stick. The first, that represented in Hogarth's picture; the second, a stick about a foot long, four-sided, on which each loaf was registered by a notch or nick in the stick; the servant kept a similarnick-stickas a check on the baker; but during the flirtation, commonthenasnowon such occasions, the old lady slyly remarks, the baker often gallantly nicked the check-stick, as well as his own, with a couple of notches for one. Hence, possibly, the decline and fall of the use of this wooden system of book-keeping by double notch. Is any date assigned to the ceasing of the practice of using the wooden tally and nick-stick?
C. D. Lamont.
Greenock.
"The Innocents," a Drama.—Who is the author of a small volume of poetry, published anonymously about the year 1825, and which is very favourably noticed in theNew Monthly Magazinefor January, 1826, vol. xviii. The title of the volume is,The Innocents, a Sacred Drama; Ocean and the Earthquake at Aleppo, Poems.
S. N.
Waugh of Cumberland.—Can you inform a Waugh, the family arms of Waugh of Cumberland; to whom they were first granted, and why?
A Subscriber.
Norton.—Wanted, the origin of, or the sources of information respecting, this name, the appellation of so many villages, &c. in Oxfordshire. A family of the name of Norton, after residing in those districts for many generations, have long moved to London, and are not possessed of the information sought by the inquirer.
N.
De La Fond.—Can any of your readers explain the following inscription on an engraving by P. Lombart of De La Fond, and its application?
"In effigiem De La Fond, GalliFestivissimi, apud Batavos, Ephemeridum Historicarum Scriptoris,Distichon.Mille oculis videt hic Fondus mille auribus audit;Plus audit naso, plus videt ille, suo."
A. F. B.
Diss.
"Button Cap."—In the north of Ireland there is a belief that just before a war breaks out, the spirit of an ancient warder of Carrickfergus Castle is heard examining the arms stored there, and, if they are not entirely to his satisfaction, he shows his displeasure by making an awful clatter among them. Has old "Button Cap" (for that is his name) been inspecting the arms lately? What is the legend connected with him? If I mistake not, he is said to be the spirit of a warder who was drowned in the castle well in the reign of Elizabeth.
Fras. Crossley.
Cobb Family.—Richard Cobb, Esq., and his wife Joan, were painted by Sir Peter Lely between 1641 and 1680. These portraits are now in my possession. Elizabeth Cobb, granddaughter of the above, married,circa1725, the Rev. Thos. Paget, at that time Fellow of Corpus Christi, Oxford. Thus, Richard Cobb would be borncirca1634, his soncirca1667, and his granddaughtercirca1700. I shall be obliged for any clue to the arms, residence, &c. of this Mr. Cobb.
Arthur Paget.
Prince Charles' Attendants in Spain.—The assistance of your antiquarian correspondents is particularly requested towards the making out of a complete list of all the persons who were in attendance on Prince Charles on his romantic visit to Spain. Of course it is well known that the Prince and Buckingham started accompanied only by Sir Francis Cottington, Endymion Porter, and Sir R. Graham. Of the members of his household who afterwards joined him, the principal of course are also well known. But of the gentlemen and grooms of the Privy Chamber, pages, &c., I have been unable to discover a complete list, although notices of individuals are occasionally met with. Any references to such notices are much desired.
E. O. P.
Sack.—What wine was this? Is it still existing and known to the wine trade by any other name? If so, when and why was the name changed?
Falstaff.
Ralph Ashton the Commander.—In an ancient record I met with a year or two ago (two centuries old, I suppose), the name of a Ralph Ashton, "Commander," occurred. The record related to Lancashire, and it spoke of "Isabella, the wife of Ralph the Commander." I believe that a gentleman of this name was commander of the Lancashire forces under the Commonwealth. Will any of your readers oblige me (should they have access to any ancient pedigree of the Ashton family) by saying whether any mention is made of this "Isabella," and what her name was before her marriage to Ralph the Commander?
Jaytee.
[The pedigree of the family of Ashton, or Assheton, of Middleton, is given in Baines'sLancaster, vol. ii. p. 596., which states that Ralph Ashton, Esq., M.P. for Clithero, temp. Chas. I., for the county, 16 Chas. I., died 17th Feb. 1650, married Elizabeth, daughter of John Kaye of Woodsome, co. York. In old documents Isabella and Elizabeth are used for one and the same name.]
[The pedigree of the family of Ashton, or Assheton, of Middleton, is given in Baines'sLancaster, vol. ii. p. 596., which states that Ralph Ashton, Esq., M.P. for Clithero, temp. Chas. I., for the county, 16 Chas. I., died 17th Feb. 1650, married Elizabeth, daughter of John Kaye of Woodsome, co. York. In old documents Isabella and Elizabeth are used for one and the same name.]
Christopher Hervie.—M. Zachary(Vol. ix., p. 184.) obligingly replies to my question as to the quotation—
"One while I think, and then I am in pain,To think how to unthink that thought again."
"One while I think, and then I am in pain,To think how to unthink that thought again."
"One while I think, and then I am in pain,
To think how to unthink that thought again."
Would he be kind enough to say where I may find any notice of Christopher Hervie? as I have been unable to find mention of him or his work in any biography to which I have access.
W. M. M.
[A biographical notice of Christopher Harvie, or Harvey, is given by Anthony à Wood in hisAthenæ Oxonienses, vol. iii. p. 538. (Bliss), from which it appears he was "a minister's son of Cheshire, was born in that county, became a batler of Brasen-nose College in 1613, aged sixteen years, took the degrees in Arts, that of Master being completed 1620, holy orders, and at length was made vicar of Clifton in Warwickshire." Wood, however (Ath. Oxon., vol. i.p. 628.), attributesThe Synagogueto Thomas Harvey, first Master of Kington School in Herefordshire. "There can be no doubt," adds Mr. Bliss, "but a Ch. Harvie was the author of this poem, particularly as Walton contributed some commendatory verses to it, which were repaid by another copy prefixed to theCompleat Anglerby Harvie; but whether this was Christopher Harvey, the vicar of Clifton, or some other, remains to be decided. If it was, it is at least singular that Wood, who was so inquisitive in these matters, should have been ignorant of the circumstance." Harvey died before the 4th Sept. 1663, as on that day Samuel Bradwall was instituted to the vicarage of Clifton, void by the death of the last incumbent.—See Sir John Hawkins' edition ofThe Complete Angler, p. 186.; also "N. & Q.," Vol. vi., pp. 463. 591.]
[A biographical notice of Christopher Harvie, or Harvey, is given by Anthony à Wood in hisAthenæ Oxonienses, vol. iii. p. 538. (Bliss), from which it appears he was "a minister's son of Cheshire, was born in that county, became a batler of Brasen-nose College in 1613, aged sixteen years, took the degrees in Arts, that of Master being completed 1620, holy orders, and at length was made vicar of Clifton in Warwickshire." Wood, however (Ath. Oxon., vol. i.p. 628.), attributesThe Synagogueto Thomas Harvey, first Master of Kington School in Herefordshire. "There can be no doubt," adds Mr. Bliss, "but a Ch. Harvie was the author of this poem, particularly as Walton contributed some commendatory verses to it, which were repaid by another copy prefixed to theCompleat Anglerby Harvie; but whether this was Christopher Harvey, the vicar of Clifton, or some other, remains to be decided. If it was, it is at least singular that Wood, who was so inquisitive in these matters, should have been ignorant of the circumstance." Harvey died before the 4th Sept. 1663, as on that day Samuel Bradwall was instituted to the vicarage of Clifton, void by the death of the last incumbent.—See Sir John Hawkins' edition ofThe Complete Angler, p. 186.; also "N. & Q.," Vol. vi., pp. 463. 591.]
Dannocks.—Hedging-gloves made of whit-leather (untanned leather), and used by workmen in cutting and trimming fences, are called in this part of Norfolkdannocks. Can any of your correspondents say whence the word is derived?
J. L. S.
Edingthorpe.
["It should rather beDornecks," says Forby, "which is the proper Flemish name ofTournai, a Frenchified name, long since universally substituted. Two hundred years ago it was celebrated for its coarse woollen manufactures, principally of carpets and hangings, mentioned in some of our old comedies. Probably thick gloves were another article of importation. Our moderndannocks, indeed, are of thick leather, and made at home by our own glovers. Dan.dorneck."]
["It should rather beDornecks," says Forby, "which is the proper Flemish name ofTournai, a Frenchified name, long since universally substituted. Two hundred years ago it was celebrated for its coarse woollen manufactures, principally of carpets and hangings, mentioned in some of our old comedies. Probably thick gloves were another article of importation. Our moderndannocks, indeed, are of thick leather, and made at home by our own glovers. Dan.dorneck."]
Brass in All Saints, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.—In the Church of All Saints, Newcastle-upon-Tyne (an erection dating at some period of the Protestant dark ages), there is a magnificent Flemish brass, of which the incumbent refuses to allow a rubbing to be taken, on the ground that the process wouldinjureit! Can any of your correspondents tell me if it has been engraved, and where?
J. H. B.
[There is a beautiful representation of the very curious plate of brass inlaid on the table monument of Roger Thornton, the celebrated patron of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, temp. Henry IV., and still preserved in the Church of All Saints in that town, engraved in Brand'sHistory of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, vol. i. p. 382. Mention is also made by that author of another work containing it, entitledMonuments in the Churches of St. Nicholas and All Saints.]
[There is a beautiful representation of the very curious plate of brass inlaid on the table monument of Roger Thornton, the celebrated patron of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, temp. Henry IV., and still preserved in the Church of All Saints in that town, engraved in Brand'sHistory of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, vol. i. p. 382. Mention is also made by that author of another work containing it, entitledMonuments in the Churches of St. Nicholas and All Saints.]
Imperfect Bible.—A Bible has lately come into my possession in an imperfect state. It is in black letter, 4to., with the capitals commencing the chapters in Roman letters. I wish to know the date and printer. It begins at fol. 7., at the end of the 6th verse of xvth chapter of Genesis, "counted that to him for righteousness." There are a number of engravings representing the instruments used in the temple and tabernacle, at fol. 36. 38. 40. 62. 160. &c. There is no date, but I think it is about 1590 or 1600.
An Ignoramus on the Subject.
[This imperfect Bible is one of the very numerous series of editions of the Genevan or Puritan version, commonly called the Breeches Bible. It is not a 4to. but a pot folio, having six leaves to the sheet or signature, "Imprinted at London by the Deputies of Christopher Barker, printer to the Queen's most excellent Maiestie, Anno Dom. 1595.Cum privilegio." Our correspondent's copy wants the title and preface (three leaves), six leaves of Genesis, the title to the N. Testament, and at the end eleven leaves, including the two tables. The translation may be identified by the last word of 1 Cor. vi. 9., or by 1 Tim. i. 10. There is another edition by the same printer, and of similar size, in the year 1602; but the title to the second part has "conteineth," instead of "conteining."]
[This imperfect Bible is one of the very numerous series of editions of the Genevan or Puritan version, commonly called the Breeches Bible. It is not a 4to. but a pot folio, having six leaves to the sheet or signature, "Imprinted at London by the Deputies of Christopher Barker, printer to the Queen's most excellent Maiestie, Anno Dom. 1595.Cum privilegio." Our correspondent's copy wants the title and preface (three leaves), six leaves of Genesis, the title to the N. Testament, and at the end eleven leaves, including the two tables. The translation may be identified by the last word of 1 Cor. vi. 9., or by 1 Tim. i. 10. There is another edition by the same printer, and of similar size, in the year 1602; but the title to the second part has "conteineth," instead of "conteining."]
The Poem of "Helga."—At what date was this poem, by Herbert, written?
Seleucus.
[This poem was commenced, as the author states in his preface, "soon after the publication of the translations which he made from the relics of ancient Icelandic and Scandinavian poetry," issued in 1805.]
[This poem was commenced, as the author states in his preface, "soon after the publication of the translations which he made from the relics of ancient Icelandic and Scandinavian poetry," issued in 1805.]
"Merryweather's Tempest Prognosticator."—I wish to know if there be a book published entitled "Merryweather's Weather Prognostication?" I think, if I mistake not, I saw it among the nautical instruments, &c. in the naval department of the London Exhibition in 1851. I cannot find here if there be any such book extant.
J. T. C.
Dublin.
[The work is entitledAn Essay explanatory of the Tempest Prognosticator in the Building of the Great Exhibition for the Works of Industry of all Nations, read before the Whitby Philosophical Society, Feb. 27, 1851, by George Merryweather, M.D., the Designer and Inventor: London, John Churchill, Princes Street, Soho, 1851.]
[The work is entitledAn Essay explanatory of the Tempest Prognosticator in the Building of the Great Exhibition for the Works of Industry of all Nations, read before the Whitby Philosophical Society, Feb. 27, 1851, by George Merryweather, M.D., the Designer and Inventor: London, John Churchill, Princes Street, Soho, 1851.]
Edward Spencer's Marriage.—Can any reader supply me with particulars of the marriage of Edward Spencer of Rendlesham, co. Suffolk, and Grosvenor Square, who lived in the early part of the last century, and whose daughters married the Duke of Hamilton and Sir James Dashwood?
Charles Bridger.
Keppel St., Russell Sq.
[The following entry is given in Davy's Suffolk Collections (Add. MSS. 19,097., p. 272.): "Edward Spencer, son of John Spencer, Esq., ob. 1718. Edward, now living at Naunton Hall, is a barrister-at-law. He married Anne, the only daughter of William Baker of Layham, clerk, by whom he had issue Henry Spencer, who died an infant, and Ann Spencer, their only daughter, and now living." This extract is copied from Hawes's MSS., the date of which, unfortunately, is not given.]
[The following entry is given in Davy's Suffolk Collections (Add. MSS. 19,097., p. 272.): "Edward Spencer, son of John Spencer, Esq., ob. 1718. Edward, now living at Naunton Hall, is a barrister-at-law. He married Anne, the only daughter of William Baker of Layham, clerk, by whom he had issue Henry Spencer, who died an infant, and Ann Spencer, their only daughter, and now living." This extract is copied from Hawes's MSS., the date of which, unfortunately, is not given.]
Yew-tree at Crowhurst.—Could any of your readers inform me of the age of the yew-tree in Crowhurst Churchyard, Sussex?
C. Bowmer.
[Decandolle assigns an antiquity of fourteen and a half centuries to this remarkable yew. See a valuable article on the "Age of Trees" in our fourth volume, p. 401.]
[Decandolle assigns an antiquity of fourteen and a half centuries to this remarkable yew. See a valuable article on the "Age of Trees" in our fourth volume, p. 401.]
(Vol. viii., p. 364.)
As no reply has yet been given to the Query ofInquirendoas to who was C. M., who described in theScots Magazine, vol. xv. p. 73., as long since as 1753, the electric telegraph, and as the article itself is one of great interest in the history of an invention which is justly considered one of the greatest wonders of our own times, I send a transcript of it, by way of satisfying the natural curiosity of many readers who may not have an opportunity of consulting it in the magazine in which it originally appeared, and also because the doing so may stimulate farther inquiry, and lead to the discovery of its ingenious writer, C. M. of Renfrew.
"Renfrew, February 1, 1753."Sir,"It is well known to all who are conversant in electrical experiments, that the electric power may be propagated along a small wire, from one place to another, without being sensibly abated by the length of its progress. Let, then, a set of wires, equal in number to the letters of the alphabet, be extended horizontally between too given places, parallel to one another, and each of them about an inch distant from that next to it. At every twenty yards' end let them be fixed in glass, or jeweller's cement, to some firm body, both to prevent them from touching the earth, or any other non-electric, and from breaking by their own gravity. Let the electric gun-barrel be placed at right angles with the extremities of the wires, and about an inch below them; also let the wires be fixed in a solid piece of glass at six inches from the end; and let that part of them which reaches from the glass to the machine have sufficient spring and stiffness to recover its situation after having been brought in contact with the barrel. Close by the supporting glass let a ball be suspended from every wire, and about a sixth or an eighth of an inch below the ball place the letters of an alphabet, marked on bits of paper, or any other substance that may be light enough to rise to the electrified ball, and at the same time let it be so contrived that each of them may reassume its proper place when dropt. All things constructed as above, and the minute previously fixed, I begin the conversation with my distant friend in this manner:—Having set the electrical machine a-going, as in ordinary experiments, suppose I am to pronounce the wordsir; with a piece of glass, or any otherelectric per se, I strike the wires, so as to bring it in contact with the barrel, theni, thenr, all in the same way; and my correspondent, almost in the same instant, observes these several characters rise in order to the electrified balls at his end of the wires. Thus I spell away as long as I think fit, and my correspondent, for the sake of memory, writes the characters as they rise, and may join or read them afterwards as often as he inclines. Upon a signal given, or from desire, I stop the machine, and taking up the pen, in my turn I write down whatever my friend at the other end strikes out."If anybody should think this way tiresome, let him, instead of the balls, suspend a range of bells from the roof, equal in number to the letters of the alphabet, gradually decreasing in size from the bellatoz; and from the horizontal wires let there be another set reaching to the several bells; one, viz., from the horizontal wireato the bella, another from the horizontal wirebto the bellb, &c. Then let him who begins the discourse bring the wires in contact with the barrel, as before, and the electric spark, breaking on bells of different size, will inform his correspondent by the sound what wires have been touched. And thus, by some practice, they may come to understand the language of the chimes in whole words, without being put to the trouble of noting down every letter."The same thing may be otherwise effected. Let the balls be suspended over the characters, as before, but instead of bringing the ends of the horizontal wires in contact with the barrel, let a second set reach from the electrificator, so as to be in contact with the horizontal ones; and let it be so contrived, at the same time, that any of them may be removed from its corresponding horizontal by the slightest touch, and may bring itself again into contact when left at liberty. This may be done by the help of a small spring and slider, or twenty other methods which the least ingenuity will discover. In this way the characters will always adhere to the balls, excepting when any of the secondaries is removed from contact with its horizontal; and then the letter at the other end of the horizontal will immediately drop from its ball. But I mention this only by way of variety."Some may perhaps think that, although the electric fire has not been observed to diminish sensibly in its progress through any length of wire that has been tried hitherto; yet, as that has never exceeded some thirty or forty yards, it may be reasonably supposed, that in a far greater length it would be remarkably diminished, and probably would be entirely strained off in a few miles by the surrounding air. To prevent this objection, and save longer argument, lay over the wires, from one end to the other, with a thin coat of jeweller's cement. This may be done for a trifle of additional expense; and as it is an electricper se, will effectually secure any part of the fire from mixing with the atmosphere."I am, &c.,"C. M."
"Renfrew, February 1, 1753.
"Sir,
"Sir,
"Sir,
"It is well known to all who are conversant in electrical experiments, that the electric power may be propagated along a small wire, from one place to another, without being sensibly abated by the length of its progress. Let, then, a set of wires, equal in number to the letters of the alphabet, be extended horizontally between too given places, parallel to one another, and each of them about an inch distant from that next to it. At every twenty yards' end let them be fixed in glass, or jeweller's cement, to some firm body, both to prevent them from touching the earth, or any other non-electric, and from breaking by their own gravity. Let the electric gun-barrel be placed at right angles with the extremities of the wires, and about an inch below them; also let the wires be fixed in a solid piece of glass at six inches from the end; and let that part of them which reaches from the glass to the machine have sufficient spring and stiffness to recover its situation after having been brought in contact with the barrel. Close by the supporting glass let a ball be suspended from every wire, and about a sixth or an eighth of an inch below the ball place the letters of an alphabet, marked on bits of paper, or any other substance that may be light enough to rise to the electrified ball, and at the same time let it be so contrived that each of them may reassume its proper place when dropt. All things constructed as above, and the minute previously fixed, I begin the conversation with my distant friend in this manner:—Having set the electrical machine a-going, as in ordinary experiments, suppose I am to pronounce the wordsir; with a piece of glass, or any otherelectric per se, I strike the wires, so as to bring it in contact with the barrel, theni, thenr, all in the same way; and my correspondent, almost in the same instant, observes these several characters rise in order to the electrified balls at his end of the wires. Thus I spell away as long as I think fit, and my correspondent, for the sake of memory, writes the characters as they rise, and may join or read them afterwards as often as he inclines. Upon a signal given, or from desire, I stop the machine, and taking up the pen, in my turn I write down whatever my friend at the other end strikes out.
"If anybody should think this way tiresome, let him, instead of the balls, suspend a range of bells from the roof, equal in number to the letters of the alphabet, gradually decreasing in size from the bellatoz; and from the horizontal wires let there be another set reaching to the several bells; one, viz., from the horizontal wireato the bella, another from the horizontal wirebto the bellb, &c. Then let him who begins the discourse bring the wires in contact with the barrel, as before, and the electric spark, breaking on bells of different size, will inform his correspondent by the sound what wires have been touched. And thus, by some practice, they may come to understand the language of the chimes in whole words, without being put to the trouble of noting down every letter.
"The same thing may be otherwise effected. Let the balls be suspended over the characters, as before, but instead of bringing the ends of the horizontal wires in contact with the barrel, let a second set reach from the electrificator, so as to be in contact with the horizontal ones; and let it be so contrived, at the same time, that any of them may be removed from its corresponding horizontal by the slightest touch, and may bring itself again into contact when left at liberty. This may be done by the help of a small spring and slider, or twenty other methods which the least ingenuity will discover. In this way the characters will always adhere to the balls, excepting when any of the secondaries is removed from contact with its horizontal; and then the letter at the other end of the horizontal will immediately drop from its ball. But I mention this only by way of variety.
"Some may perhaps think that, although the electric fire has not been observed to diminish sensibly in its progress through any length of wire that has been tried hitherto; yet, as that has never exceeded some thirty or forty yards, it may be reasonably supposed, that in a far greater length it would be remarkably diminished, and probably would be entirely strained off in a few miles by the surrounding air. To prevent this objection, and save longer argument, lay over the wires, from one end to the other, with a thin coat of jeweller's cement. This may be done for a trifle of additional expense; and as it is an electricper se, will effectually secure any part of the fire from mixing with the atmosphere.
"I am, &c.,"C. M."
"I am, &c.,"C. M."
"I am, &c.,
"C. M."
Surely among the numerous readers of "N. & Q." some one will be found to tell us who C. M. was.
J. Y.
(Vol. ix., p. 221.)
The inquiry ofMr. R. W. Dixonis one that I feel should not remain unanswered; and a few circumstances that I can detail will be sufficient to prove that his brother Mr. J. H. Dixon only exercised a just discretion in rejecting the information offered by William Sidney Spence.
On 4th March, 1848 (a few months, therefore, earlier than the letter which has been quoted), a communication was forwarded to me by Mr. Spence so similar, as to warrant the supposition that a set form was kept on hand to be copied in different applications with such variations as each case might demand, though even then a discrepancy has crept in that would render the evidence suspicious.
The first paragraph is the same, except that Mr. Spence states he was engaged by the "widowof Sir John Cotgreave," instead of the "sister."
In the second the pedigree is said to be the "work of Randle Holme, 1672, from documents by William Camden," instead of the work of "the great Camden." Monsons, of course, are substituted instead of Dixons. Four generations from Sir John Monson temp. Edward III., instead of five generations from Ralph Dixon temp. Henry VI. And this Sir John is slain fighting under Lord Audley at the battle of Poictiers, 1356, as a counterpart to Ralph Dixon, slain at the battle of Wakefield, 1460.
The third paragraph is word for word the same, except that, to be consistent with the descents, four shields with sixteen quarterings are offered instead of five shields with twelve.
Lady Cotgreave is to vouch for the authenticity instead of Miss Cotgreave.
The quarterings promised in the next paragraph are only partially the same, and the conclusion merely differs in wording by the substitution of the names of "Sir John Monson" and "his mother Elinor, daughter and coheir of Sir John Sutton, de Sutton and Congleton," in place of "Ralph Dixon and his mother Maude, daughter and coheiress of Sir Ralph Fitz Hugh," &c.
I acknowledge that from the first I did not believe a word of this ingenious tale; in fact I was rather an unfortunate subject for Mr. Spence's purpose, having for years made the early history of my family my especial study; but having a friend resident at Birkenhead (a clergyman), I applied to him out of curiosity to find out something of my informant, who at least had shown some ingenuity. The answer was by no means in favour of Mr. Spence; and one fact was decidedly ascertained, that he neither lived nor was known in Priory Place, whence his letters were dated. I answered his letter, declining to give the remuneration of five pounds which he had asked; and on taxing him with the falsity of his residence, he said he had his letters left there for convenience.
Mr. Dixonmust now himself judge of the credit to be placed on the informant. As for the information in my own case, it bore internal proofs of being worthless; and if such a pedigree as is described should exist, I feel assured it is not the work of Camden, but more probably of a cotemporary, of rather discreditable notoriety among genealogists, of the name of Dakyns.
Monson.
Gatton Park.
I can give no information on the Dixon family, but having some years ago received a letter from the same Mr. Spence, with an account of my own family, every word of which is not only entirely without authority, but a gross invention opposed to the facts, I thoughtMr. Dixonmight like to know that Mr. Spence founds the romance in question on a "Pedigree of Cotgreave de Hargrave, the work of the celebrated Randle Holme, anno 1672, from documents compiled by that learned antiquary William Camden, in the year 1598," evidently the same veracious authority with that mentioned in the letter toMr. Dixon.
Ev. Ph. Shirley.
Eatington Park, Stratford-on-Avon.
The following note will, I think, satisfy your correspondentR. W. Dixonthat the letter of William Sidney Spence which you inserted for him was an imposture, and that Mr. J. H. Dixon was not without reason in rejecting the information offered.
A friend of mine, assuming descent from "a good old" family of the same name, which he was unable to prove, received, about the same time asMr. Dixondid, a communication from Mr. William Sidney Spence to precisely the same effect, and having no cautious brother to consult, readily took the bait, and paid some pounds for a specious pedigree, setting forth his "distinguished progenitors," with their armorial bearings, &c., purporting to be authenticated as a true copy of one in Miss Cotgreave's possession under that lady's own hand. The information so received being subsequently submitted to a genealogical friend, some doubt was excited of its genuineness in proving too much; and an inquiry, which I made through a correspondent in Cheshire, tending to confirm this suspicion, a reference was had to Miss Cotgreave herself, when it turned out that the whole was an ingenious fabrication. Mr. Spence was then dead, and my friend, whose name I do not mention, as the subject is rather a sore one, was obliged to be content with the practical experience he had bought.
The probability is, that whenever Mr. Spence read in Burke'sLanded Gentrythat Mr. A. orMr. B., in preference to being considered as the founder of a new family, supposed himself, or wished to be supposed by others, to be descended from an old stock of the same name, he kindly offered to supply the desired information, and was ready to execute a pedigree to order.
G. A. C.