Minories. This thoroughfare was laid out across the lands belonging to the Minoresses or Nuns of St Clare after their priory had been demolished at the Reformation. The Order of the Minoresses corresponded to the Friars Minor of the Franciscans founded by St Francis de Paula.
Minster. The distinction between a minster and a cathedral lies in this: the former is the church in connection with a monastery, whereas the latter contains the kathedra, or chair, of a bishop.
Minstrel Boy. A favourite page whose duty it was to attend a knight in peace and war. On his return from “feats of arms” he recited the doughty deeds of his master to the accompaniment of a lute, harp, or lyre in the banqueting-hall. In times of peace his theme was the bravery of the knight in the lists at tournaments or his prowess in defence of fair maidens.
Minstrel of the Border. The name bestowed upon William Wordsworth by Sir Walter Scott.
Mint. On the spot where Manlius Capitolinus had built himself a sumptuous residence the Romans set up a temple to Juno Moneta, or “The Monitress,” since Manlius had been apprised of the Gallic invasion through the cackling of the sacred geese. Subsequently this temple of Moneta was converted into an establishment for the coinage of money. Both mint and money therefore come from Moneta.
Mint Street. From the old mint established at Suffolk House by Henry VIII. when that property was sequestered to the Crown.
Minuet. So called from the Latin minutus, small, on account of the short, graceful steps which distinguish this dance.
Miserere. The name given to a mediæval choir stall of which the seat could be turned up so as to form a ledge for the support of the aged monks while kneeling. Its name, miserere, “Have mercy,” was singularly appropriate.
Misluck. An Americanism for misfortune or ill luck.
Misses’ Tailors. An Americanism for “Ladies’ Tailors.”