—Can any of your readers state the origin of the expression "no great shakes," which has obtained an almost universal use, and is employed under a great variety of circumstances? No doubt a knowledge of its derivation would interest many subscribers to "N. & Q." as well as
I. J. H. H.
[Shakes, as used in the following passage by Byron, is a vulgarism, which probably may be traced to the custom of shaking hands, the shake being estimated according to the value set upon the person giving it, and hence applied to the person. Byron writing to Murray, Sept. 28, 1820, says, "I had my hands full, and my head too just then (when he wrote Marino Faliero), so it can be no great shakes."—See Richardson's Dict. s.v.]
Translation of Richard de Bury.
—Is the translation of Richard de Bury's Philobiblon, "with a memoir of the illustrious bishop," promised by W. S. G., Vol. ii. p. 203., yet published?
L. S.
[Our correspondent should remember, that "church work is slow work," as Addison facetiously makes Sir Roger de Coverley complain. From a prospectus recently issued, we learn that the Philobiblon is still preparing for publication; and that gentlemen who may wish to have copies are requested by the author to transmit their names to Mr. R. Robinson, Pilgrim Street, Newcastle-on-Tyne.]
Life of Ken.
—Who is the author of the Life of Bishop Ken, by a Layman, published a year or two since?
E. G.