MATTUCASHLASH, an ancient Scotch weapon, sometimes called armpit dagger, which was worn there, ready to be used on coming to close quarters. This, with a broad sword and shield, completely armed the highlanders. Since the use of fire arms, this weapon has been laid aside.
MATTOCK. An instrument somewhat resembling a pickax, but having two broad sharp edges instead of points.
MATTRESS, a sort of quilted bed of straw, used by officers on service, instead of the feather bed, differing from the paillasse in one particular only; the straw in the latter being loose, whereas that of the mattress is quilted in.
MAUG, Ind. The name of a month which partly agrees with our January and February.
MAUL, a heavy beater or hammer, generally shod with iron, used in driving piles, &c.
MAWANY, Ind. See [Kistbundy].
MAXIMS, in fortification. See [Fortification].
MEALED, pulverized, or reduced to powder.
MEAN Fortification. See [Fortification].
MEANA, Ind. A machine or vehicle, a species of palankeen, but only used for carrying one person. It is borne by four men, and supported by means of a bamboo extended from the ends; being generally seven feet long, and three wide, with Venetian blinds, which slide and act as doors. Persons in India sometimes travel to a considerable distance in these vehicles; the number of bearers being increased, and successively relieved. It is computed that they will easily go at the rate of six miles in the hour.