Boom (Vol. vii., p. 620.; Vol. viii., p. 183.).—The Bittern is not an uncommon bird in some parts of Wales, where it is very expressively called Aderyn-y-Bwn (the Boom-bird), or Bwmp-y-Gors (Boom of the Fen): the w is pronounced as double o.
W. R. D. S.
"Nugget" not an American Term (Vol. vii. passim).—It is a mistake in our correspondent to suppose that the word "nugget" was used in California by American "diggers" to denominate a lump of gold. That word was never heard of in this country until after the discoveries in Australia. It is not used now in California, "lump" is the proper term; and when a miner accumulates a quantity, he boasts of his "pile," or rejoices in the possession of a "pocket full of rocks."
Philadelphia.
Soke Mill (Vol. viii., p. 272.).—Suit is not now enforced to the King's Mills in the manor of Wrexham, in the county of Denbigh, but the lessee of the manorial rights of the crown receives a payment at the rate of threepence per bushel for all the malt ground in hand-mills within the limits of the manor.
Taffy.
Binometrical Verse (Vol. viii., p. 292.).—This verse appeared in the Athenæum (Sept. 2, 1848, No. 1088, p. 883.), given by one correspondent as having been previously forwarded by another; but it does not appear to have been previously published.
M.
Watch-paper Inscription (Vol. viii., p. 316.).—Twenty-five years ago this inscription was set to music, and was popular in private circles. The melody was moderately good, and the "monitory pulse-like beating" of course was acted, perhaps over-acted, in the accompaniment. I am not sure it was printed, but the fingers of young ladies produced a great many copies. Your correspondent's version is quite accurate, and I think he must have heard it sung, as well as read it. Segnius irritant, &c. is not true of what is read as opposed to what is heard with music.