[1941] Fée is inclined to think that it is the Sorbus terminalis of Lamarck. Anguillara thinks that it is the Cratægus of Theophrastus, considered by Sprengel to be identical with the Cratægus azarolus of Linnæus. In ripening, the fruit of the sorb undergoes a sort of vinous fermentation: hence a kind of cider made of it.
[1942] De Re Rust. cc. 7 and 145.
[1943] The Juglans regia of Linnæus.
[1944] Tastes have probably altered since this was written.
[1945] These were rude and sometimes obscene songs sung at festivals, and more particularly marriages. While these songs were being sung at the door of the nuptial chamber, it was the custom for the husband to scramble walnuts among the young people assembled there. The walnut is the nut mentioned in Solomon’s Song, vi. 11.
[1946] Or, more probably, from the union of the two portions of the inner shell.
[1947] “Tripudium sonivium;” implying that it was considered sacred to marriage, from the use made of it by the friends of the bridegroom when thrown violently against the nuptial chamber, with the view of drowning the cries of the bride. A very absurd notion, to all appearance.
[1948] The “Persian” nut.
[1949] The “king’s” nut. The walnut-tree still abounds in Persia, and is found wild on the slopes of the Himalaya.
[1950] Implying that it comes from the Greek κάρη, “the head.” Some etymologists think that it is from the Celto-Scythian carw, a boat; such being the shape of the two parts of the inner shell.