Sir Richard Steele signed himself “Nester Ironside” in the Guardian (1671-1729).
Ironsides. So were the soldiers of Cromwell called, especially after the battle of Marston Moor, where they displayed their iron resolution (1644).
Ironsides (Captain), uncle of Belfield (Brothers), and an old friend of Sir Benjamin Dove. He is captain of a privateer, and a fine specimen of an English naval officer.
He’s true English oak to the heart of him, and a fine old seaman-like figure he is.—Cumberland, The Brothers, i. 1 (1769).
Iron Tooth, Frederick II., elector of Bradenburg (Dent de Fer), (1657, 1688-1713).
Irrefragable Doctor (The), Alexander Hales, founder of the Scholastic theology (*-1245).
I´rus, the beggar of Ithâca, who ran errands for Penelopê’s suitors. When Ulyssês returned home dressed as a beggar, Irus withstood him, and Ulyssês broke his jaw with a blow. So poor was Irus that he gave birth to the proverbs, “As poor as Irus,” and “Poorer than Irus” (in French, Plus pauvre qu’ Irus).
Irving (Washington). N. P. Willis said of Irving’s reputation in England fifty years ago: “The first questions on the lips of every one to whom I am introduced as an American are of him and Cooper.” Horace Smith, the author of “Rejected Addresses” pronounced him “a delightful fellow.”—N. P. Willis, Pencilings by the Way (1835).
Irwin (Mr), the husband of Lady Eleanor, daughter of Lord Norland. His lordship discarded her for marrying against his will, and Irwin was reduced to the verge of starvation. In his desperation Irwin robbed his father-in-law on the high road, but relented and returned the money. At length the iron heart of Lord Norland was softened, and he relieved the necessities of his son-in-law.
Lady Eleanor Irwin, wife of Mr. Irwin. She retains her love for Lord Norland, even through all his relentlessness, and when she hears that he has adopted a son, exclaims, “May the young man deserve his love better than I have done! May he be a comfort to his declining years, and never disobey him!”—Inchbald, Every One has His Fault (1794).