Mr. Sternberg derives it from the Anglo-Saxon lowian, past participle of the Anglo-Saxon lowian, and the verb bellan. This would seem satisfactory; but I should like to know whether the word is current anywhere else besides Northamptonshire.
H. T. W.
Meaning of Assassin.—Can any reader of the "N. & Q." inform me of the correct meaning of the word "assassin?" The old story of the nation of the assassins, under their prince the "Old Man of the Mountain," I reject as absurd, although Gibbon adopts it. I have my own idea, which agrees with Mr. Lane in his account of the modern Egyptians, who derives it from the Arabic word "Hushhusheen, one drunk with hemp." M. Volney says it comes from the Arabic "Hass, to kill, or lie in ambush to kill." Which of all these derivations is correct?
Muhammed.
A. and N. Club, St. James's Square.
Punishment for exercising the Roman Catholic Religion.—In Burton's Narratives from Criminal Trials in Scotland, vol. ii. p. 168., I find the following statement:
"The latest case of punishment under the act is supposed to have occurred in 1759, when Neil M‘Fie was banished by the circuit court of Inverness, for being 'held and reputed a Popish priest.' Later instances might be adduced of punishment for exercising the Roman Catholic religion in England."
Can any of your readers inform me of the date of the last instance in England, and where it is stated?
S. Y.
Hogarth's Pictures.—I have a catalogue of the pictures and prints, the property of the late Mrs. Hogarth deceased, which were sold by Mr. Greenwood on April 24th, 1790. Under the head "Pictures by Mr. Hogarth," I see in Lot 44.: "The heads of six servants of Mr. Hogarth's family." Can any of your numerous readers inform me where this picture is placed, or say in what manner the heads are grouped?