Page:The Folk-Lore Journal Volume 5 1887.djvu/340

332 Of customs there are some which appear extraordinary, though not confined to the parish of Culdaff. One of these is elopement previously to matrimony notwithstanding the absence of all difficulties which might stand in the way of the union of the lovers.—(P. 159.)

In this and some of the neighbouring parishes a custom prevails for young women to assemble at spinning parties, to which each of them brings a wheel, for the purpose of enjoying society without impairing their industry.

Howling at funerals and holding wakes during two or three days previous to interment are customs regularly observed here. These wakes are often attended with unbounded mirth and festivity, which are not restrained by the presence of the nearest relatives of the deceased.

During the Christmas holidays they amuse themselves with the game of Kamman (derived from Kam, which signifies crooked), which consists in impelling a wooden ball with a crooked stick to a given point, while an adversary endeavours to drive it in a contrary direction.

On St. John's Eve (the 23rd June) bonfires are made at the tops of all the hills. This ceremony is denominated Beal-Tyn.—(P. 160.)

Near the village of Culdaff is a deep part of the river into which it is usual to plunge diseased cattle, and, at the same time, to pray to Saint Bodhan, who is supposed to intercede in their favour. There is no account of the canonization of this saint; nor are there any particulars known of his life; but Bodhan is an Irish term for an idiot, and superior sanctity is here generally ascribed to fatuity.—(P. 161.)

Parish of Cloncha (Donegal).

Near Malin Head is a small hollow in the rock which is filled with sea-water at every tide; it is reputed to possess a miraculous power of curing diseases. . . . . The patron days of the place are St. John's Eve and the Assumption of the Virgin, and they are celebrated there by the most disgusting drunkenness and debauchery under pretence of paying adoration to St. Moriallagh, the patron of the well. This saint is not acknowledged in the calendar.—(P. 181.)

In this parish there are no books, MSS., nor documents of any sort relating to Ireland. Some old people, however, in the most