In the notes to his volume, Mr. Dixon mentions two Irish versions of this ballad, communicated to him by T. C. Croker, Esq., one of which, entitled "Last New Year's Day," is almost verbatim with
the English ballad. The other version (which is given by Mr. D.) is entitled "Dicky of Ballyman."
J. K. R. W.
[This reference renders it unnecessary to insert the versions kindly supplied by E. L. H. and J. A.]
Unregistered Proverbs (Vol. ix., p. 235.).—The following I find among the poor parishioners of Tor-Mohun in Devonshire, and they were new to me. In answer to some remarks of mine on the necessary infirmities of old age, one of them replied, "You cannot have two forenoons in the same day." And on another occasion, in answer to my saying that something ought to be done, although it was not, there came, "Oughts are nothings unless they've strokes to them."
Wm. Fraser, B.C.L.
Orange Blossoms (Vol. viii., p. 341.; Vol. ix., p. 386.).—I have seen it stated that the use of these flowers at bridals was derived from the Saracens, or at least from the East, and that they were thus employed as emblems of fecundity.
Wm. Fraser, B.C.L.
Peculiar Use of the Word "Pure" (Vol. viii., p. 125.).—Your correspondent is evidently not a Gloucestershire man. The word pure is commonly used in that county to express being in good health. I remember an amusing instance, which occurred many years ago. A gentleman, a friend of mine, who resided in an establishment where young ladies were educated, was met one day by an honest farmer; who, after inquiring kindly for his own health, said with equal good nature and simplicity, "I hope, Zur, the ladies be all pure."
Gloucestrensis.