Change of Name.—If, as it appears by a recent decision, based, perhaps, on a former one by Lord Tenterden, that a man may alter his name as he pleases without the royal license, I wish to know what then, is the use of the royal license?
B.
The Symbolism of the Fir-Cone. What does the "fir-cone" in the Ninevite sculptures mean? Layard does not explain it. Is it there as the emblem of fecundity, as the pomegranate of Persia and Syria? Has it altogether the same character as the latter fruit? Then—was it carried into Hindostan viâ Cashmir? When? By the first wave of population which broke through the passes of the Parapamisus?
B.C.
Kentish Ballad.—When I was a boy, I can remember hearing a song sung in Kent, in praise of that country, which I never could find in print, and of which I am now glad to recollect the following stanza:—
"When Harold was invaded,
And falling lost his crown,
And Norman William waded
Through gore to pull him down;
When countries round