Page:The Folk-Lore Journal Volume 1 1883.djvu/375

 Rh was so admired for his just judgment in cutting off the saw's nose, that my lord in a mocking manner made him burly-bailie of Bucky-Nine." In the "Comical Sayings of Paddy from Cork," part ii. Teague thus describes the funeral of his wife: "my dear Mary, she was buried in all manner of pomp, pride, and splendour; a fine coffin with cords in it, and within the coffin along with herself she got a pair of new brogues, a penny candle, a good-headed old hammer, with an Irish sixpenny piece, to pay her passage at the gate, and what more could she look for?" (pp. 152-153). In the "Comical Transactions of Lowthian Tom" we have the familiar story of the master thief (see p. 77). "The History of Haverel Mines" (pp. 133-143) and the "Ancient and Modern History of Buckhaven " (pp. 207-237) are full of curious folk-lore. Mr. MacGregor has added occasional useful and pertinent notes, and has compiled a necessary glossary. It need scarcely be said that Dougal Graham's works are somewhat freer in tone than are the tales of the nineteenth century, but the coarseness is perhaps more apparent than real. To future historians of Scotland Mr. MacGregor's volumes will be invaluable for the light they throw upon social customs, conversation, and thought.

The Council at their last meeting decided to hold three meetings of the Society for the reading and discussion of papers during the coming winter season in December, January, and February. Mr. Clodd will read a paper at the December meeting, on the "Philosophy of Punchkin." Notice will be given in the December Journal, but special notices will not be sent to each member. The date fixed is Friday, December 14th.

Mr. Robert Charles Hope is engaged upon a new folk-lore work, to be entitled Holy Wells, Springs, and Fountains, their Legends and Superstitions. This work is an attempt to gather together the legends and superstitions connected with the above scattered throughout Great Britain and Ireland, with the addition of a few from other nations. The subject is one of considerable interest and variety, and throws no small amount of light on the manners and customs of our forefathers. Intending subscribers should apply to the author, a Member of the Society.