Cornwall.
On the day termed Hall’ Monday, which precedes Shrove Tuesday, about the dusk of the evening it is the custom for boys, and in some cases for those who are above the age of boys, to prowl about the streets with short clubs, and to knock loudly at every door, running off to escape detection on the slightest sign of a motion within. If, however, no attention be excited, and especially if any article be discovered negligently exposed, or carelessly guarded, then the things are carried away; and on the following morning are discovered displayed in some conspicuous place, to expose the disgraceful want of vigilance supposed to characterise the owner. The time when this is practised is called “Nickanan night;” and the individuals concerned are supposed to represent some imps of darkness, who seize on and expose unguarded moments.
On the following eve (Shrove Tuesday), the clubs are again in requisition; but on this occasion the blows on the door keep time to the following chant:
“Nicka, nicka nan;
Give me some pancake, and then I’ll be gone.
But if you give me none,
I’ll throw a great stone,
And down your doors shall come.”
Report of the Royal Institution of Cornwall for 1842; N. & Q. 1st S. vol. xii. p. 297.