very humorous account of this event was published some years ago by
Dr. Buckler, subwarden, from a manuscript of Thomas Walsingham, the
historian, and monk of St. Alban's. It is the cause of much mirth, for
on the day, and in remembrance of the mallard, many an old and merry
song is sung.

E.T.S.

* * * * *

WELSH MARRIAGES.

It appears to me a matter of no small surprise that so economical
a people as the English should not have adopted such a plan as the
following by the lower classes of the Welsh. When a young couple
intend offering themselves at the Temple of Hymen, if they are very
poor, they generally send a man, called the bidder, round to their
acquaintance and friends, who invites them, sometimes in rhyme, to
the wedding; but if they can afford it, they issue circulars. The
following is a copy of one:--

"_June 27, 1827._

"As we intend to enter the matrimonial state on Thursday, the 19th day
of July next, we are encouraged by our friends to make a bidding on
the occasion, the same day, at the Butchers' Arms, Carmarthen, when
and where the favour of your good and agreeable company is humbly
solicited; and whatever donation you may be pleased to confer on us
then, will be thankfully received, warmly acknowledged, and cheerfully
repaid whenever called for on a similar occasion.