I’ll take my Davy on it. The word “Davy” is a corruption of “affidavit.”
Il Perugino. The better-known name of the celebrated Italian artist Pietro Vanucci, who, born at Citta della Pieve in Umbria, established himself and remained all his life in the neighbouring city of Perugia.
Il Tintoretto. See “[Tintoretto].”
Imperial. The name given to the once fashionable chin tuft, after Napoleon III., who was the first to wear his beard in this diminutive fashion.
In a Crack. Done instantly, in no more time than it takes for a gun to go off.
In a Jiffy. The word “jiffy” is a corruption of the now obsolete gliff--i.e. a mere glance.
Inch of Candle. In some parts of the country land is still disposed of at auction by inch of candle. This was the ancient form of auctioneering. Candles of inch length were provided, and when the candle went out the bidding was closed.
Inchcolm. Expresses the inch or isle of St Columba, who dwelt here while labouring to convert the Picts to Christianity.
In Clover. In a contented frame of mind because provided with everything necessary for the time being. Cattle always make for the clover when turned out to graze.
Incog. Short for Incognito, an Italian word signifying “not known.” Royal personages desirous of avoiding ceremony often travel incog., or under an assumed title.