Now, however, the custom has almost fallen into disuse, though within the last five years the ceremony was fully carried out. At one time it was not only a recognized custom, but in most cases special preparation was made for its due observance, the maidens spending no little time and skill in the working of their bridal garters.
Immediately after the plate had been broken, the bride’s attempt to cross the threshold was hindered by the kneeling figure of the winner of the race, claiming the privilege of removing the prize. The bride then raised her skirt whilst he removed the valued trophy[14].
As it was the correct thing in those good old days for ladies to raise the skirt quite as high when dancing, and as elaborately worked stockings were worn to be looked at, nothing was thought of lifting the skirt, and nothing would in these days if some lady of title revived the custom. From an old rhyme, I give the following lines:—
T’ BRAHDAL BANDS.
Blushing, theer oor Peggy sits
Stitching, fahn stitching,
Luv knots roond her brahdal bands,
Witching, bewitching.
T’ brahd’s maids all mun deea a stitch,
Stitching, fahn stitching,