| Citation |
NYGWPB.751.064
30 Sep 1751:12 (454)
This custom [of the Flitch of Bacon] is still kept up,
notwithstanding the dissolution of the monasteries, only
instead of the prior and convent, the business is now
transacted at a court baron held before the steward of the
lord of the manor. It may be some amusement to our readers
to see the words of the oath on this occasion, which are to
the following purpose, viz.
You do swear by custom of confession,
That you ne'er made nuptial transgression;
Not since you were married man and wife,
By houshold brawls, or contentious strife,
. . . [8 lines]
The sentence pronounced for their receiving the bacon is in
words to the effect following viz.
Since to the conditions, without any fear,
Of your own accord you do freely swear,
A whole gammon of bacon you do receive,
And bear it away with love and good leave,
. . . [2 more lines]
|