[201] On the 16 Jan. 1780, admiral Rodney met a Spanish squadron off Cape St. Vincent, under the command of admiral Don Juan du Langara, and completely defeated it; capturing the Phœnix, of 80 guns, bearing the flag of the admiral, the Monarca, Princessa, and Diligenta, each of 70 guns. The St. Domingo, of 70 guns, blown up; and the San Julian and San Eugenio, of 70 guns, surrendered: while the British had the trifling loss of only 32 men killed and 120 wounded. Both houses of parliament voted Rodney thanks for his conduct upon the occasion, and the freedom of the city of London was presented him in a gold box valued at 100 guineas. Lord Rodney, K.B., died 24 May, 1792.
[202] The custom of singing Hagmena songs is observed in different parts of the north of England, and in Scotland. The origin of the term is a matter of dispute. Some derive it from "au guy l'an neuf," to the misletoe this new year; others suppose the term to be a corruption of aghia mhênê the holy month. The Hagmena songs are sometimes sung on Christmas Eve, and sometimes, as at Richmond, on the eve of the new year. See Brand's Popular Antiquities.
[203] "Ray, ree, or rey, a Portuguese coin, 100 of which are equal to sixpence English."—Clarkson's Richmond.
[204] From A Garland of New Songs, without printer's name.
[205] From a broadside in the Rox. Coll., black letter. Printed for P. Brooksby, at the Golden Ball in Pye Corner.
[206] "On first entering the village of Egton (near Whitby), instead of proceeding forward, take the road through a gate to the right, which leads past the church of Limber Hill, a winding and steep descent, which affords, from several points, fine views of Eskdale and Glaisdale, and at the foot of which the Beggar's Bridge, with its elegant single arch, bestrides the river Esk."—Reed's Guide to Whitby.
[207] A pleasant straggling village, in the parish of Ainderby Steeple, near North Allerton, on the east bank of the Swale. Lambard, Bede, and other early writers, inform us that Paulinus, the first archbishop of York, baptized 10,000 persons in this river in one day,—"By cause at that tyme theare weare no churches or oratories yet buylt."
[208] Communicated by Mr. Wm. Todd, of Keckmondwike, author of "T' Country Chap," &c.
[209] Author of the "Vale of Mowbray," &c: to whom I am indebted for the "Collingham Ghost," and "The Widow's Lament."
[210] This song first appeared, in 1805, in Colman's "Love laughs at Locksmiths." See a Latin version of this song by the Rev. G. H. Glasse, in Gent. Mag. for Aug. 1805.