_Change of Name_.--If, as it appears by a recent decision, based,
perhaps, on a former one by Lord Tenterden, that a man may alter his
name {247} as he pleases _without the royal license_, I wish to know
what then, is the use of the royal license?

B.


_The Symbolism of the Fir-Cone_. What does the "fir-cone" in the
Ninevite sculptures mean? Layard does not explain it. Is it there as the
emblem of fecundity, as the pomegranate of Persia and Syria? Has it
altogether the same character as the latter fruit? Then--was it carried
into Hindostan _viâ_ Cashmir? When? By the first wave of population
which broke through the passes of the Parapamisus?

B.C.


_Kentish Ballad_.--When I was a boy, I can remember hearing a song sung
in Kent, in praise of that country, which I never could find in print,
and of which I am now glad to recollect the following stanza:--

"When Harold was invaded,
And falling lost his crown,
And Norman William waded
Through gore to pull him down;
When countries round
With fear profound,