“cut up FAT,” see under [CUT]. As a Theatrical term, a part with plenty of FAT in it, is one which affords the actor an opportunity of effective display.
FATHER, or FENCE, a buyer of stolen property.
FAWNEY, a finger ring.
FAWNEY BOUNCING, selling rings for a wager. This practice is founded upon the old tale of a gentleman laying a wager that if he was to offer “real gold sovereigns” at a penny a piece at the foot of London Bridge, the English public would be too incredulous to buy. The story states that the gentleman stationed himself with sovereigns in a tea tray, and sold only two within the hour,—winning the bet. This tale the FAWNEY BOUNCERS tell the public, only offering brass, double gilt rings, instead of sovereigns.
FAWNEY, or FAWNEY RIG, ring dropping. A few years ago, this practice, or RIG, was very common. A fellow purposely dropped a ring, or a pocket book with some little articles of jewellery, &c., in it, and when he saw any person pick it up, ran to claim half. The ring found, the question of how the booty was to be divided had then to be decided. The Fawney says, “if you will give me eight or nine shillings for my share the things are yours.” This the FLAT thinks very fair. The ring of course is valueless, and the swallower of the bait discovers the trick too late.
FEATHERS, money, wealth; “in full FEATHER,” rich.
FEEDER, a spoon.—Old cant.
FEELE, a daughter, or child.—Corrupted French.
FELT, a hat.—Old term, in use in the sixteenth century.
FENCE, or FENCER, a purchaser or receiver of stolen goods; FENCE, the shop or warehouse of a FENCER.—Old cant.