"In time the idols did increase, and we find in ancient writers, some who have been transported hither by the eastern people, as the God (Abellio vocabatur in Gallia) Belenus, or Belatucadrus. The latter, to my knowledge, hath been adored in the north part of England; for lately, since the learned Camden hath mentioned him, there was a piece of his statue found in Westmoreland, near Brougham, a castle belonging to that bountiful and venerable lady, Anne Dorset, countess dowager of Pembrook and Montgomery, &c.; and in the bottom this inscription is to be seen: 'Sancto Deo Belatvcadro,' which idol was doubtless made by the Romans, for it was their custom to adore the gods of the country which they did conquer."
My object is to ascertain, if possible, if this portion of statue has been preserved? Has any subsequent discovery been made in the same locality respecting, or any additional light thrown upon, the one of which mention is herein made?
Kappa.
Surname of Allan.—Perhaps Mr. Lower, or some other etymological reader of "N. & Q.," may kindly assist me in my endeavours to find out the correct meaning and origin of this surname, variously spelt Allen, Allan, Allin, Alleyne, &c.? My theory on the subject, from various researches, is that it is a word of Celtic or Gaelic etymon, Aluinn, in that language, signifying "delightful or pleasant." And again, several islet-rocks romantically situated in the Firth of Clyde, Scotland, are called to this day Allans. I should much like, however, to have the opinions of older and more experienced etymologists than I can pretend to be; for few subjects present so interesting a field for different theories as that regarding the origin of family names does. As I am naturally interested in my own surname, I should also like to obtain a sketch of the different British families of note bearing the surname and arms of Allen or Allan, and references to those works which give their history and lineage.
A. S. A.
Wuzzeerabad.
Arms of Owen Glendower.—Could any of your correspondents inform me of the blazoning of the arms of Owen Glendower, which, according to the copy of his private seal, furnished by Meyrick to the editor of the Poems of Lewis Glyn Cottie, are, Quarterly, four lions rampant; supporters, a dragon (gules?) and a lion?
B. B. Woodward.
Tenent and Tenet.—When did the use of tenent (for opinion, dogma, &c.) give place to tenet? Surely both forms should be retained, and used according to circumstances. It is correct to speak of a tenet of John Wesley. When attributing the same doctrine to Wesleyans, it becomes their tenent.
Y. B. N. J.