Page:The Folk-Lore Journal Volume 4 1886.djvu/121

Rh Majesty's navy, the Royal Marines, the Yeomanry, and numerous other sources. 'Guido Faux' followed in his car, honoured by a postilion and a band of Christy Minstrels; then came foot torch-bearers, and a crowd of enthusiastic citizens, who 'hurraed' to their hearts' content. Noticeable were the banners, 'Success to Young Stratton,' the Cornish arms, and 'God save the Queen.' The display of fireworks took place from a field overlooking the town, and the inhabitants grouped together at points of vantage to witness the display. The bonfire was lit on Stamford Hill, where the carnival ended. Good order and good humour prevailed."—(Western Morning News.)

When I was a girl, I was taught the following doggerel rhymes, which were then commonly chanted on this day:—

This was in Victoria's reign; where Castle Ryan stands I have never been able to learn.

The old custom formerly practised in Camborne, of taking a marrow-bone from the butchers on the Saturday before the feast which is held on the nearest Sunday to Martinmas, was, in 1884, revived in its original form. "A number of gentlemen, known as the 'Homage Committee,' went round the market with hampers, which were soon filled with marrow-bones, and they afterwards visited the public-houses as 'tasters.—(Cornishman.)

One night in November is known in Padstow as "Skip-skop night," when the boys of the place go about with a stone in a sling; with this they strike the doors, and afterwards slily throw in winkle-shells, dirt, &c. Mr. T. G. Couch says: "They strike violently against the doors of the houses and ask for money to make a feast."

At St. Ives on the Saturday before Advent Sunday "Fair-mo" (pig fair) is held. This town is much celebrated locally for macaroons, a great many are then bought as "fairings." The St. Ives