The Loving Ballad of Lord Bateman

plinters. Antiquarians differ respecting the intent and meaning of this ceremony, which has been construed and interpreted in many different ways. The strong probability is that it was done "for luck;" and yet Lord Bateman should have been superior to the prejudices of the vulgar.]

[Footnote 9:

If my own Sophia.

So called doubtless from the mosque of St. Sophia, at Constantinople; her father having professed the Mahomedan religion.]

[Footnote 10:

_Then up and spoke this young bride's mother,
Who never vos heerd to speak so free._

This is an exquisite touch of nature, which most married men, whether of noble or plebeian blood, will quickly recognise. During the whole of her daughter's courtship, the good old lady had scarcely spoken, save by expressive smiles and looks of approval. But now that her object is gained, and her daughter fast married (as she thinks), she suddenly assumes quite a new tone, "and never was heerd to speak so free." It would be diff