ly by these people. They may be constantly
seen at that festive season with their fiddler, bands of swordsmen,
Tommy and Bessy, most grotesquely dressed, performing their annual
routine of warlike evolutions."

And the present writer heard of similar festivities at Christmastide
in the Madeley district of Shropshire, accompanied by grotesque
imitations of the ancient hobby-horse.

[Illustration]

CUMBERLAND.

"A. W. R.," writing to Hone's "Year Book," December 8,
1827, says:--

"Nowhere does the Christmas season produce more heart-inspiring
mirth than among the inhabitants of Cumberland.

"With Christmas Eve commences a regular series of 'festivities and
merry makings.' Night after night, if you want the farmer or his
family, you must look for them anywhere but at home; and in the
different houses that you pass at one, two, or three in the morning,
should you happen to be out so late, you will find candles and fires
still unextinguished. At Christmas, every farmer gives two 'feasts,'
one called 't' ould foaks neet,' which is for those who are married,
and the other 't' young foaks neet,' for those who are single. Suppose
you and I, sir, take the liberty of attending one of these feasts
unasked (which by the bye is considered no liberty at all in
Cumberland) and see what is going on. Upon entering the room we behold
several card parties, some at 'whist,' others at 'loo' (there called
'lant'), or any other game that may suit their fancy. You will be
surprised on looking over the company to find that there is no
distinction of persons. Masters and servants, rich and poor, humble
and lofty, all mingle together without restraint--all cares are
forgotten--and each one seems to glory in his own enjoyment and in
that of his fellow-creatures. It is pleasant to find ourselves in such
society, especially as it is rarely in one's life that such
opportunities offer. Cast your eyes towards the sideboard, and there
see that large bowl of punch, which the good wife is inviting her
guests to partake of, with apples, oranges, biscuits, and other
agreeable eatables in plenty. The hospitable master welcomes us with a
smiling countenance and requests us to take seats and join one of the
tables.

"In due time some one enters to tell the company that supper is
waiting in the next room. Thither we adjourn, and find the raised and
mince pies, all sorts of tarts, and all cold--except the welcomes and
entreaties--with cream, ale, &c.