Fly-up-the-Creeks. The people of Florida, who were wont to disappear on the approach of strangers.
F. M. Allen. The pseudonym of Mr Edward Downey at the time when he was also a publisher. F. M. Allen was his wife’s maiden name.
Foley Street. After the town house of Lord Foley.
Fontagne. A wire structure for raising the hair of ladies, introduced by the Duchesse de Fontagne, one of the mistresses of Louis XIV. of France.
Fontinalia. Roman festivals in honour of the nymphs of wells and fountains. It was from these that the English and French custom of “Well Dressing” in the month of May found its origin.
Foolscap. A size of paper which from time immemorial has had for its watermark a fool’s cap and bells.
Footpad. Originally a thief or highway robber who wore padded shoes.
Fop. From the German and Dutch foppen, to jeer at, make a fool of. This word must be very old, since Vanbrugh gave the name of Lord Foppington to a conceited coxcomb in this comedy “The Relapse,” 1697.
Forecastle. The quarters apportioned to the seamen in the fore end of a vessel. Anciently the whole forward portion bore the name of Aforecastle on account of “The Castle” or State Cabin erected in a castle-like form in the centre.
Forefathers’ Day. December 21st, commemorated in the New England States on account of the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers in 1620.