[5] Also called Pace-egg. The Danish word is Paaskeaeg.
[6] The small stack often seen in our churches at a harvest thanksgiving is a survival of the mell doll.
[7] The stang was ridden at Thoralby, Wensleydale, as recently as October, 1896.
[8] The pole was a stang or cow-staff.
[9] The original was most kindly lent to me by the Lady of the Manor, Mrs. Chaloner.
[ 10] A three-legged race. In this there was nothing unseemly, for a long way into this century the skirts worn came but little below the knee. Bear in mind, both in launching and beaching their husband’s or father’s boat, the women and girls of to-day often rush up to the waist in the sea to lend a helping hand.}
[11] Some explanation is needed to make this task understandable. A large basket (probably a wide creel) had a strong pole thrust through the wicker-work or handles improvised for the occasion; each end of the pole was then rested upon some suitable support, leaving the basket free to swing about a foot from the ground. On each support and near to the pole a shell or other light object was placed. The thing to be done would not be easy of accomplishment. Those contending for the prize had in turn to seat themselves astride of the pole with both feet inside the basket; thus seated, and firmly grasping the pole with one hand, they had to knock off the shell with a stick (which in the meantime they used to steady themselves with), then turn round, reseat themselves, knock off the other shell, and then get out without overbalancing. You try it, but have something soft to fall upon. It is marvellous how soon it is the next person’s turn.
[12] Thirty years ago it was common.
[13] The details of the plate-throwing vary slightly in different localities.
[14] In some parts it was customary for the winner, after having removed the garter, to enter the bridal chamber, turn down the bed clothes, and offer to the bride a hot pot as she entered to remove her bridal attire, and then salute her; did he omit the latter, he forfeited the garter.