Oh my - I'm having such an enjoyable time!! That lovely scion of a 'notable' house - and he IS a Rashleigh - has attended our dancing; my, he cuts a lovely figure. As they say, he knows how to show a leg. I've had at least 2 dances with Cornish Hobbits - or was one Ed? Both had gorgeous vests, full of colour and pattern. I believe one WAS Ed - he kept looking toward the guarded food room, paying more attention to the guardian warder and his keys than to me!! Of all things. Sir Peter (my sweet Peety) and I just finished a quadrille, and his wife, in her fine striped silk gown, has been visiting with all the ladies; she's keeping up to date with the latest gossip, you may rest assured. Sir Peter is planning to meet with the men in the smoking room; perhaps he'll see our Albert there. Jayne, in all her top-heavy glamour, has been seen with our ever-present hairy guard - the helpful one, who first cast Joan into the dungeon - who seems to be giving her a personal guided tour. Breathe, Jayne, breathe!! Emidy's band has taken a 'break', and are relaxing just outside, while we're serenaded by the Cornish Choir; such voices!! Makes one pine for a live concert, where one can experience the entire performance. Someday, perhaps, it will happen. Isn't this boom-box idea rather marvelous? People will continue this entertainment for centuries, surely. I've lost my fan; 'tis somewhere around here. Oh, do excuse me Joan, Mr. Warder. Oh, there it is! Koko, get my fan! Koko, the fan! Thank you, darling; you're a good dog. (She's so handy in snow; always bringing my gloves, should I drop one. Saves me from tromping over ice, and into snow...it's also good for lost keys.) The girls are waiting to go on; they've been busy teaching Ed's skinny rats - alias the "Kick-line Kickers" how to dance to "Always Look On the Bright Side of Life..." by Monty Python. Lorna's parrots are a bit loopy, but they've agreed to 'bookend' the rats, as they have Fred Astaire-debonair looks, top hats and canes. Two, three, Ohhhh, Always look on the bright siiiide of life, dum dum dum dum de de de dum.... Have promised the next dance to a rather shy yeoman farmer, who has attended on his own. One polka, and his shyness shall be conquered! But as the girls, rats, and parrots are providing entertainment just now, that pleasure might be put off a bit. Have checked, and he's NOT wearing hob-nailed boots. (One can't be too careful; Joan trod on her Warder's foot, and now he's sitting in the corner! With her on his lap!! Oh My!!! hope the pain isn't too great.... Am off to see what else is happening throughout the gaol; perhaps I'll catch a glimpse of Albert!! Later, my dears... Julianna and the girls

Lorna, so glad you found the bottle we left. Mistress Whatsername had added a cupful of aphrodiasics to it, so mind how you go! Best wishes from Duchess Daft - now sitting on the wsard's knee in a dark corner!!!

I would like to wish all those in Cornwall including my family all the best and hope that there is not to much damage. Thinking of you all. Hazel in Blacktown, NSW

Our concerned thoughts are with you all in Cornwall and Devon with the dreadful floods. I mowed my green grass here this morning when it was cooler and what was green is now just brown straw. We've recently had very severe grass fires near us which have threatened homes and stock. What a world of contradictions!!! Brian from hot and dry Yass nr Canberra in Australia. -----Original Message----- From: cornish-bounces@rootsweb.com [mailto:cornish-bounces@rootsweb.com] On Behalf Of Catherine Quayle Sent: Sunday, 23 December 2012 11:00 AM To: cornish@rootsweb.com Subject: Re: [CORNISH] floods I second that, Gail. �I have heard from friends in Cornwall that the flooding is severe in many places. Kitty in stormy northern California --- On Sat, 12/22/12, Gail Ford <gail.ford7@ntlworld.com> wrote: From: Gail Ford <gail.ford7@ntlworld.com> Subject: [CORNISH] floods To: "Cornish List" <CORNISH@rootsweb.com> Date: Saturday, December 22, 2012, 2:19 PM I would like to send my good wishes to my compatriots in Cornwall � and their neighbours in Devon � who are suffering in the dreadful weather we are having here at the moment.� I hope you get dried out soon and can yet have a good Christmas and a wonderful, drier, New Year. Gail ------------------------------- Subscribe to digest by sending an email to CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text.� If you want, MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. ------------------------------- To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the quotes in the subject and the body of the message ------------------------------- Subscribe to digest by sending an email to CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. ------------------------------- To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the quotes in the subject and the body of the message

Deaar Mistress Agnes: Alas and alack, I fear I have always fastened my laces in a ladder (straight across fashion)but now I a heeding Mrs P. and this morning I criss-crossed them and perhaps I'll have more fun today! Mind you, I had to get one of the prison warders in to help me and he turned out to be quite a saucy thing - I shall get his help in undoing the laces tonight and who knows what may happen!!! Warm wishes, Duchess Daft

Mrs Pepys and I are very disappointed that there are so few men at the party - what a waste of puppies urine and rocket seeds. I have looked for you in vain Lorna - I am following the trail of discarded diamonds as we speak. Mrs P however is keen on improving the male-female ratio at this party and is hoping to leave you lost. I do respond to requests for household tips and fashion advice. Gentlemen on the look out for a wealthy woman will of course go for those of us whose bodices lace at the back, thus indicating that we must have a servant, as one cannot do up back laces unaided. Personally, Mrs P and I are keener on getting our bodice laces UNdone. Whilst on the subject of laces, ladies - do ensure your laces are fastened in a criss cross fashion. If your laces do resemble a ladder (straight across) then you reveal yourself as a Puritan, them we do call straight laced women. The Puritans believe that the tighter lacing achieved by straight lacing held not just the body but also the morals under control. Mrs P says that's no fun at all. I thought you'd enjoy my recipe for fricassied calf's tongue and udder - courtesy of my good friend Mrs Hannah Woolley. 'Boyl them cut them in slices within two inches of the top or small end, which cut lengthways for sippets; then take a handful of sweet herbs, mince them small, and put them to the Tongue and udder, and the yolks of seven or eight eggs, and mix altogether. Fry them in clarified butter, then turn them into a stew pan and put to them some white-wine, a little vinegar, beaten cinnamon, ginger, sugar. a little rosemary and a handful of grated bread. Stew all these together; put in as they stew some drawn butter, serve it up with slices of the tip and small end of your tongue and udder, then put your stewed liquor over it.' Perhaps someone could whip this up while I stomp round in my armour with Mrs P. Mistress Agnes -----Original Message----- From: hlmw Sent: Saturday, December 22, 2012 8:18 PM To: Cornish Subject: [CORNISH] Party 2012 Mistress Agnes! Since you have not arrived to rescue me I am replacing my high-heeled diamonds with virtual ones and moving on. The parrots have disappeared and I am sliding down the spiral staircase to look through the cells for the only man who has arrived at the party (so far) who goes by the name of Ed (other than two wandering beings in armour) and I don't know who they are. I am guessing that one is Henry VIII because of the protuberance - on his helmet! The other is a mystery. I can hear the parrots creeping along the passage between the cells going K-lonk, K-lonk, K-lonk because they are wearing their little round-toed, black boots. Every once in a while they stop to admire themselves in the shiny toes of the boots. It is very dark down here, but with my virtual powers I can discern a deflated inflatable hanging off of a parapet with a blonde inside . She is bouncing over the side and down the passageway because she is top heavy. That should attract Ed who is ready to polka! Maybe Albert's crew has arrived. Lady Lorna of the Virtuous something or other (on occasion) ------------------------------- Subscribe to digest by sending an email to CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. ------------------------------- To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the quotes in the subject and the body of the message

I have caught up to the parrots who were bearing what they thought were pike-staffs. (a couple of branches from decorations). With many gestures they let me know that they had fought off the Beast, the Wyrm and a dog that was skulking around in the dungeons looking for rats. The parrots can't talk but they can give a fine demonstration of: "Have at it ye scoundrels, take that and that, one, two, one, two and a couple more!" Time to go upstairs where candles beam brightly and Ed, dancing and food await. I have changed the parrots into their top hat and tails for the dancing. They have white canes ala Fred Astaire and are practicing twirling them as we K-lomp up the stairs on the LEFT - am I being misguided? And what about those two - Mistress Agnes and Mrs P ? Are they claiming to be the armoured ones? Ah, a bottle of something at the top of the stairs, just right. I have had nothing to eat or drink since I arrived here. I will give the parrots a little sip, they must be very thirsty and then I will ... ooh what is the matter with the parrots? They are goggle-eyed and staggering about making strange noises - snurty, ghorky, wince, herly, thunk - their idea of singing "I've got a lovely bunch of cocoanuts!". Someone has left that bottle here on purpose... could have been Duchess Daft or Mistress whatsername. Thath OK, I am thober ath a thkinny rat and I think I will........K-lunk - zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz Limp Lorna

Could it be some scrumpy? I tried some once and had the same reaction. ----- Original Message ----- From: "hlmw" <hlmw1@telus.net> To: "Cornish" <Cornish@rootsweb.com> Sent: Sunday, December 23, 2012 9:38 AM Subject: [CORNISH] Party 2012 >I have caught up to the parrots who were bearing what they thought were > pike-staffs. (a couple of branches from decorations). With many gestures > they let me know that they had fought off the Beast, the Wyrm and a dog > that > was skulking around in the dungeons looking for rats. The parrots can't > talk > but they can give a fine demonstration of: "Have at it ye scoundrels, take > that and that, one, two, one, two and a couple more!" > Time to go upstairs where candles beam brightly and Ed, dancing and food > await. I have changed the parrots into their top hat and tails for the > dancing. They have white canes ala Fred Astaire and are practicing > twirling > them as we K-lomp up the stairs on the LEFT - am I being misguided? And > what > about those two - Mistress Agnes and Mrs P ? Are they claiming to be the > armoured ones? > Ah, a bottle of something at the top of the stairs, just right. I have had > nothing to eat or drink since I arrived here. I will give the parrots a > little sip, they must be very thirsty and then I will ... ooh what is the > matter with the parrots? They are goggle-eyed and staggering about making > strange noises - snurty, ghorky, wince, herly, thunk - their idea of > singing > "I've got a lovely bunch of cocoanuts!". > Someone has left that bottle here on purpose... could have been Duchess > Daft > or Mistress whatsername. Thath OK, I am thober ath a thkinny rat and I > think > I will........K-lunk - zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz > Limp Lorna > > ------------------------------- > Subscribe to digest by sending an email to CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com > with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, > MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. > > Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to > CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. > ------------------------------- > To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to > CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the > quotes in the subject and the body of the message

Yes, what a world of contrast we live in and not all man-made. We in Western Australia have been told to expect 40 degrees Fahrenheit on Christmas Day which is beginning to sound bearable compared with the dreadful flooding in Cornwall and Devon and all that goes with it. Thoughts and prayers are with all those who are suffering through these extreme floods and a hope that they will be able to salvage some happy family time together. Cheers Pat

Thank goodness for kah-lomping parrots ... if it had not been for their echos I might never ascended from the depths to be greeted by an amazing site of halls bedecked in red berried holly, mistletoe and green bunting. And the banners ! Of the houses of the Lords and Ladies from hereabouts -- very fancy in their heraldic reds and golds ! But ... where is the food ? Does disaster loom ? If nothing else there should be some tatties ! So I hassle my cell neighbours to find some full (or at least not empty !) sacks, and we set to peeling like mad. and I try to reward the parrots with some eyes from the potatoes - but they look at me askance, hoist their beaks high, give a positively chilling sniff, and kah-lomp off. (I fear that they are accustomed to a much higher standard of cuisine than that of me and my ex-cell mates) Having peeled enough potatoes for a flock of shepherds pie, we set to and start trimming all the candles that we will need to show off the finery and beauty of the ladies. Me thinks I had better start a quick etiquette lesson for the ex-cell mates ... As in when taking the punch to cock one's little finger and sip ... I said SIP ... from the delicate glass cups. Like how low to bow to a countess compared to a baroness ... there is a rumour that there may be a princess present but in my heart of hearts I doubt it - at best probably we can hope for a duchess. My final task is to remove some rather dubious stains from the flagstones ... makes me quite queasy ... but I am sure I shall regain my appetite ... if I could have a snifter of brandy to steady my nerves and my hands .... On 22/12/2012 22:10, Julia Mosman wrote: > > Ohhh, you folks who enjoy walking down dank and dingy hallways... exploring has never been my forte, but I can see how it might hold some allure. All that dust and dirt, and clanking armour, even a ghost or two! Shivers down the spine... You never know what you'll find around the next bend, do you. Perhaps the Trifle which was lost? > > The huge, hairy jailor who manhandled Joan, and thrust her into that awful cell, has proven to be most helpful; he's managed to hang all the greens and banners, so our space looks spiffing. The food has been set out in a room next-door, which had long tables and various pulley attachments, which have been removed. Some of us did wonder if that area had been used for less wholesome events in prior days, but with the gingham curtains and a few 'throw' pillows, it looks very comfy now. One of the warders has closed the door, and holds the key - no hungry folks, or skinny rats, allowed before 12 midnight!! > > Emidy's band will start playing soon - but first, perhaps we can have a bit of a talk from Mistress Agnes, on how she manages her busy days in Darkest Devon; we all might be able to pick up a housekeeping secret or two (especially the warders). And fashion tips as well. Mrs. P. has managed perfectly well, even tho' she's wearing Mistress Agnes' third best bum roll; she and one or two Cornish gentlemen have been most helpful in setting things aright. > > Many of the prisoners have joined in, and helped polish the floors with potato sacks, which can now be used for clothing, tied with a raffish raffia round the middle. I've heard tell that some, due to this time of year, have committed a small crime so they're incarcerated here, rather than having to revert to the Poor House, because the food here is much more plentiful, and better prepared!! The reaction to that published piece of information was not to upgrade the P.H. food; no, it was to investigate how the gaol can provide such substantial fare, with the goal of reducing the pittance spent!! So the prisoners will thank us profoundly when we give them the 'left-overs' of our feast! > > Lorna is off finding the parrots, who we thought were delivering snacks to less fortunate prisoners - but no, they're busy klomping down the halls, and leading Lorna further into the dismal dungeons. > > Don't think the fashionable set will appear at our soiree on the dot of ten - isn't it now the fashion to arrive late? That's a very handy excuse, should Lorna miss the 'first dance' - but that would be such a pity! Lost in the dungeons, whilst cheer abounds above. 'Course, the red parrots, with their tiny boots, could sashay in an Upwards direction, and lead her back in time. Let's hope they choose the left passage. No! No! The LEFT passage. The LEFT! > > Are those fabulous seven-inch heels (SEVEN!) good for dancing? One could certainly pirouette nicely with them, it would seem, as they do keep a person on their toes. Perhaps you could stand in the center, all sparkly blue and shiny white, and hold ribbons, whilst lesser mortals weave around you while holding the ends of those selfsame ribbons - rather like a Maypole. It would be so festive!! > > Yoo-hoo, Joan! What ARE you doing in that cell, with that handsome dragon killer?? Or is he a Dragoneer? Dragoon? > > Am thinking I've had a bit too much Scrumpy whilst convincing Stevie that our gala should go forth - had a friend once say that after two glasses of such, he found the curb a little too high to climb over!! Hope that's not what is in store for me this happy, happy night!! Where is everyone, when one needs to sit down and stop the room from spinning........ > > Julianna, and two very concerned Keeshonds! (plus Shadow, who is now patrolling the dark and dingy hallways, in hope of meeting a skinny rat who didn't hear about our coming.....) > ------------------------------- > Subscribe to digest by sending an email to CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. > > Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. > ------------------------------- > To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the quotes in the subject and the body of the message >

I would like to send my good wishes to my compatriots in Cornwall – and their neighbours in Devon – who are suffering in the dreadful weather we are having here at the moment. I hope you get dried out soon and can yet have a good Christmas and a wonderful, drier, New Year. Gail

Ohhh, you folks who enjoy walking down dank and dingy hallways... exploring has never been my forte, but I can see how it might hold some allure. All that dust and dirt, and clanking armour, even a ghost or two! Shivers down the spine... You never know what you'll find around the next bend, do you. Perhaps the Trifle which was lost? The huge, hairy jailor who manhandled Joan, and thrust her into that awful cell, has proven to be most helpful; he's managed to hang all the greens and banners, so our space looks spiffing. The food has been set out in a room next-door, which had long tables and various pulley attachments, which have been removed. Some of us did wonder if that area had been used for less wholesome events in prior days, but with the gingham curtains and a few 'throw' pillows, it looks very comfy now. One of the warders has closed the door, and holds the key - no hungry folks, or skinny rats, allowed before 12 midnight!! Emidy's band will start playing soon - but first, perhaps we can have a bit of a talk from Mistress Agnes, on how she manages her busy days in Darkest Devon; we all might be able to pick up a housekeeping secret or two (especially the warders). And fashion tips as well. Mrs. P. has managed perfectly well, even tho' she's wearing Mistress Agnes' third best bum roll; she and one or two Cornish gentlemen have been most helpful in setting things aright. Many of the prisoners have joined in, and helped polish the floors with potato sacks, which can now be used for clothing, tied with a raffish raffia round the middle. I've heard tell that some, due to this time of year, have committed a small crime so they're incarcerated here, rather than having to revert to the Poor House, because the food here is much more plentiful, and better prepared!! The reaction to that published piece of information was not to upgrade the P.H. food; no, it was to investigate how the gaol can provide such substantial fare, with the goal of reducing the pittance spent!! So the prisoners will thank us profoundly when we give them the 'left-overs' of our feast! Lorna is off finding the parrots, who we thought were delivering snacks to less fortunate prisoners - but no, they're busy klomping down the halls, and leading Lorna further into the dismal dungeons. Don't think the fashionable set will appear at our soiree on the dot of ten - isn't it now the fashion to arrive late? That's a very handy excuse, should Lorna miss the 'first dance' - but that would be such a pity! Lost in the dungeons, whilst cheer abounds above. 'Course, the red parrots, with their tiny boots, could sashay in an Upwards direction, and lead her back in time. Let's hope they choose the left passage. No! No! The LEFT passage. The LEFT! Are those fabulous seven-inch heels (SEVEN!) good for dancing? One could certainly pirouette nicely with them, it would seem, as they do keep a person on their toes. Perhaps you could stand in the center, all sparkly blue and shiny white, and hold ribbons, whilst lesser mortals weave around you while holding the ends of those selfsame ribbons - rather like a Maypole. It would be so festive!! Yoo-hoo, Joan! What ARE you doing in that cell, with that handsome dragon killer?? Or is he a Dragoneer? Dragoon? Am thinking I've had a bit too much Scrumpy whilst convincing Stevie that our gala should go forth - had a friend once say that after two glasses of such, he found the curb a little too high to climb over!! Hope that's not what is in store for me this happy, happy night!! Where is everyone, when one needs to sit down and stop the room from spinning........ Julianna, and two very concerned Keeshonds! (plus Shadow, who is now patrolling the dark and dingy hallways, in hope of meeting a skinny rat who didn't hear about our coming.....)

I second that, Gail.  I have heard from friends in Cornwall that the flooding is severe in many places. Kitty in stormy northern California --- On Sat, 12/22/12, Gail Ford <gail.ford7@ntlworld.com> wrote: From: Gail Ford <gail.ford7@ntlworld.com> Subject: [CORNISH] floods To: "Cornish List" <CORNISH@rootsweb.com> Date: Saturday, December 22, 2012, 2:19 PM I would like to send my good wishes to my compatriots in Cornwall – and their neighbours in Devon – who are suffering in the dreadful weather we are having here at the moment.  I hope you get dried out soon and can yet have a good Christmas and a wonderful, drier, New Year. Gail ------------------------------- Subscribe to digest by sending an email to CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text.  If you want, MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. ------------------------------- To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the quotes in the subject and the body of the message

Mistress Agnes! Since you have not arrived to rescue me I am replacing my high-heeled diamonds with virtual ones and moving on. The parrots have disappeared and I am sliding down the spiral staircase to look through the cells for the only man who has arrived at the party (so far) who goes by the name of Ed (other than two wandering beings in armour) and I don't know who they are. I am guessing that one is Henry VIII because of the protuberance - on his helmet! The other is a mystery. I can hear the parrots creeping along the passage between the cells going K-lonk, K-lonk, K-lonk because they are wearing their little round-toed, black boots. Every once in a while they stop to admire themselves in the shiny toes of the boots. It is very dark down here, but with my virtual powers I can discern a deflated inflatable hanging off of a parapet with a blonde inside . She is bouncing over the side and down the passageway because she is top heavy. That should attract Ed who is ready to polka! Maybe Albert's crew has arrived. Lady Lorna of the Virtuous something or other (on occasion)

Now that's a good idea - I shall wander down the corridor and see if a few snapped brandy snaps and chewn apple cores are fair exchange for at least the elegant vest ! Time to dot the polka :-) Ed On 22/12/2012 05:33, Julia Mosman wrote: > Whee Who! That final descent was a hoot! We bumped into one of the Cornish Hobbit habitats, jumped over the Pool, then almost veered into the trees!! It only took a small army of Hobbits to prevent that from happening. > > The good news is that none of the crumpets, snaps, and kegs of brandy have been damaged. The girls and Shadow, the feline fellow, bounced off to explore the area. 'Tis said the dogs have noses 10,000 times more effective than ours; imagine what all they must smell, and how intense it must be!! It's quite all right, as Koko, the eldest Keeshond, knows that when I put my hand over my head, everyone returns quickly; elsewise, they may not get a treat! She, of course, filled in the other two, and they respond quickly as well. (Well, Shadow might not be - treats aren't his style, unless it's fresh pilchards.) > > Edward, Eddie, Ed, never despair! We love Cornish men, regardless of 'social station', as long as they like to sing, like to share a sip or two of scrumpy, stout, bitters, and/or brandy (especially with ladies), like to dance (especially jigs and polkas!) and tell stories and jokes! (And turn a blind eye to melting face wax). Besides, Mrs. P, from what Mistress Agnes says, is on the lookout for a dark-eyed Celtic Cornishman who enjoys the above. Just remember, she's wearing Mistress Agnes' third best bun, which might not be too secured - so don't bob about too very enthusiastically in the polka. > > Mr. Darcy was too far above everyone to enjoy any of that, wasn't he? I believe he was the "Pride" in the book's title, was he not? That Sort is NOT invited. Ye-ough, as the young ladies say nowadays. > > Should you feel the need, you might be able to borrow clothes of the fellow 2 cells down from you; it seems he spent most of his ill-gotten gains on finery, and has a rather elegant vest, and a fine fustian coat as well. > > Obviously, since you're able to wander around the grounds of the prison, our mission to the Governor has been successful. Sir Stephen, Steve, our dear Stevey, completely understood the situation, once we explained it three or eleven times. The more hard apple cider we shared, (alias scrumpy) the clearer our message/requests became. We now have total, open permission to celebrate as we wish - complete with Emidy's band, the Hobbits, and everyone else we've invited. (hic!) > > So party on! Now should Albert, with his wonder dog, appear, our number will be joyously filled. But isn't there any other Lister out there who'd like to join the festivities? As we've said, those ley lines allow for a lot of leeway! > > And for those of you who might be interested, here's a link (whatever that might be) to a short film on the Keeshond. Both of our girls are the darker type, but our 'baby" looked just like the puppies shown here - and she has a MUCH finer tail that those shown. > > http://videos.howstuffworks.com/animal-planet/43340-dogs-101-keeshond-video.htm > > JOY FOREVER ! Julianna and the Girls > > ---------------------------------------- >> Date: Sat, 22 Dec 2012 03:43:50 +0000 >> From: olifant@optushome.com.au >> To: cornish@rootsweb.com >> Subject: Re: [CORNISH] Party 2012 imprisoned! >> >> My goodness .... everyone is in the fine finery .... and I, like a true >> Cornish agricultural labourer am barefooted - a true Hobbit with my >> hairy toes and soles. >> >> As for outer garments (being too poor to afford inner ones), I think I >> am in well patch potato sack :-) >> >> None the less, I am looking forward to some foot stomping dancing with >> the ladies >> (I am beginning to wish I had come as Mr Darcy ...) >> >> I better go for a walk outside and let the rain wash away my grime >> before I present myself to the Governor and his wife ! >> >> Ed >> > ------------------------------- > Subscribe to digest by sending an email to CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. > > Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. > ------------------------------- > To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the quotes in the subject and the body of the message >

My goodness .... everyone is in the fine finery .... and I, like a true Cornish agricultural labourer am barefooted - a true Hobbit with my hairy toes and soles. As for outer garments (being too poor to afford inner ones), I think I am in well patch potato sack :-) None the less, I am looking forward to some foot stomping dancing with the ladies (I am beginning to wish I had come as Mr Darcy ...) I better go for a walk outside and let the rain wash away my grime before I present myself to the Governor and his wife ! Ed On 21/12/2012 13:18, janet@few4.orangehome.co.uk wrote: > Mistress Julianna, I did hear tell that our brave sailors had reached the > New World where you are. It is the upside down colonials we haven't > discovered yet. We even have potatoes from your part of the world. They > aren't much use to us of course as one can't afford them. We do think they > are a fruit, so the wealthy eat them when the skins are green, which may > explain why there's not much demand! > Mrs Pepys (Elizabeth to her friends) is being very persistent. I think she > is on the look out for handsome prison guards or dragon slayers. I have lent > her my third best bum roll to help her snare a man for the festivities - Mr > P having remained in London, provisioning the ships for the navy (as he > does), entertaining young ladies and keeping an eye out for Great Fires. Mrs > P suggests Mr Markham's recipe for perfuming gloves. 'Take the oil of sweet > almonds, oil of nutmeg, oil of benjamin, of each a dram. Of ambergris > (that's sperm whale vomit in case you were in any doubt but maybe Wrym vomit > would work) one grain, fat musk 2 grains, mix them together and grind them > upon a painter's stone, anoint the gloves therewith. Before you anoint them > let them be dampishly moistened with damask rose-water.' > Members of Cornwall Family History Society can glimpse Master Christopher in > all his gory - sorry that should be glory, in the December issue of the > journal. There do be pictures of him on the internet (all witchcraft to me) > but I suggest you Google under my good self (I generously allow Janet in > Darkest Devon to share my website), rather than 'Master Christopher', which > do turn up some rather strange results! Pictures of Master Christopher do > come with a government health warning though. I am sure St. George and the > prison guards would be more pleasing to the eye. > Was wondering about Wyrm pottage for tea........ > Mistress Agnes > > -----Original Message----- > From: Julia Mosman > Sent: Friday, December 21, 2012 8:27 AM > To: cornish@rootsweb.com > Subject: Re: [CORNISH] Party 2012 imprisoned! > > > -Thank 'ee, Mistress Jan. We needed a bit o' sun and warmth! > > Yes, 'tis true. Flooding is FORECAST - but then, how often are the forecasts > right? Hereabouts, that's less than 50%, since the forecasters base these > learned pronouncements on the size and closeness of beaver houses, the > furriness of caterpillars, and other modern, advanced methods - and the > forecasts are based on such activity months in advance. While the girls do > have rather extra-luxuriant coats this year, they're only medium sized, and > can warm only one person at a time. (For a typical two-dog night.) So let's > opt for Mistress Jan's gift; it might aid Joan in her gauzy chiffon dress, > whilst waiting to be rescued. > > In the meantime, the pilot of our balloon has dropped his emergency boats to > those below, and my ginger cookies as well. So if our powder stays dry, and > the creeks don't rise, we'll be in fine fettle. Except for those poor > unfortunates in the 2nd level of the dungeon of the Gaol. Let's hope Joan > tisn't held there!! Do you think she might have been able to leave a crumb > trail for us to follow?? > > Ah Mistress Agnes - how delightful that Master Christopher has a bit of > glory reflected his way. Congratulations!! Is there a way one could catch a > glimpse of this cheery cover? > > Are you not from the 17th century? My folk were first recorded in the new > colony of Massachusetts in 1634, so we be as modern as thee! However, I did > wonder how a boom-box, with fabulous Cds of the Cornish Miner's Choir > singing, could work when electric fluid has not been harnessed - but then, > how do we know what a boom-box might be? Because we're actually at a > 'convergence point' of ley lines, and the ancient Longstones one finds in > Cornwall have long been known to foster time/space anomalies. Rather > marvelous, isn't it?? > > Where shall we meet to plan our approach to the Governor of the Gaol? we > have to have our bribes - er, our gifts - in a row, and we want to put our > best-feet forward. Did you bring any parafin with arsenic in it, to paint > our faces? (We outlanders don't use such, but have heard tell of it. Do you > have the receipt?) > > My toes are tapping in anticipation of the music, glorious decorations, and > scrumptious food awaiting all of us! Should be THE party of the season, > don't you know. We have such a wide variety of persons, of all ranks and > stations, attending, that it should be absolutely fabulous. A little > scandal, a little laughter, and a little merriment - just the things for a > marvelous celebration! > > Cheers, > > Julianna and the Girls > > > ---------------------------------------- >> From: jandavis3@cox.net >> To: cornish@rootsweb.com >> Date: Thu, 20 Dec 2012 22:07:18 -0800 >> Subject: Re: [CORNISH] Party 2012 imprisoned! >> >> Because this IS a virtual party, let's change the weather for the duration >> of the party to sunny and warm. ZAP!!! I send you a typical San Diego >> day!!! >> Jan >> ----- Original Message ----- >> From: <janet@few4.orangehome.co.uk> >> To: <cornish@rootsweb.com> >> Sent: Thursday, December 20, 2012 10:00 PM >> Subject: Re: [CORNISH] Party 2012 imprisoned! >> >> >>> It seems that many of our party goers are from the colonies. This is >>> strange >>> as, in my time, we haven't discovered half of you yet. Thought I'd >>> better >>> warn you all of the flood warnings for Cornwall over the next few days. >>> Forget diamonds and feather boas - we need souwesters and umbrellas - >>> awkward - they haven't been invented in my time either. >>> Not only am I having trouble with Janet in Darkest Devon getting above >>> herself but now I've got Master Christopher thinking he is a hit because >>> his >>> picture features in the latest Cornwall Family History Society Journal. >>> Master Christopher is a barber surgeon. There he is, quietly (well the >>> patient wasn't quiet) administering a clyster (Google it party goers but >>> not >>> after a big meal) and someone starts painting his portrait! >>> Is anyone chronicling our party this year? My good friend Mrs Pepys may >>> volunteer her husband to keep the party diary though I hear he is busy >>> with >>> young ladies of his acquaintance. Poor Mrs P does her best to keep Mr >>> P's >>> attention - bathes her face regularly in the best moisturiser (puppies >>> urine) but he doesn't kiss her on the cheek often. She was of course >>> born >>> in >>> Darkest Devon - perhaps I'll cheer her up by bringing her along. >>> This pike is getting a tad tricky I am busy trying to rescue everyone >>> but >>> carrying a pillory, a set of stocks, a mease of Clovelly herring, >>> lobster, >>> crab and (whisper) mince pies is rather cumbersome even though I am >>> carrying >>> it virtually. I have my wicker pannier to my back but it doesn't really >>> fit >>> over the armour. The helmet I shall hang on to, just in case I can't >>> find >>> a >>> privy when I need one. >>> I hope the Wyrm and dragon don't mistake me for King George in all this >>> armour and get defensive. >>> Mistress Agnes >>> >>> >>> -----Original Message----- >>> From: Julia Mosman >>> Sent: Friday, December 21, 2012 5:16 AM >>> To: cornish@rootsweb.com >>> Subject: Re: [CORNISH] Party 2012 imprisoned! >>> >>> >>> Oh Dear! I've konked the Pilot over the head for insulting my delectable >>> cookies, so don't have a big, burly man at hand just now!! However, >>> we're >>> zipping along rather quickly, and should be over your location quite >>> soon. >>> Perhaps with the help of a few friends, and a slightly dazed pilot, we >>> might >>> save you from your dire fate!! >>> >>> In the meantime, the marvelous red parrots can fly in your sustenance; >>> the >>> Wyrm has been coaxed to char you a bit of seafood, a la carte, and I've >>> dropped more ginger cookies. Watch out for them, they're potent. >>> >>> On which level might you be incarcerated? Level one (morbid, morose, & >>> chilly) or two (dankest, darkest, and despairing) of the dungeons, or >>> are >>> you being held in the "upstairs" cells, reserved for those not yet >>> convicted >>> for the crimes of which they're accused? The ones which allow a tiny >>> sliver >>> of hope to creep into your ravished heart. From the tapping, it sounds >>> like >>> the former - unless you're next to the kitchens, and are hearing the >>> "tapping" of the butchers. Did you see a bit of demolished trifle along >>> the >>> way, as you were dragged into the cell? >>> >>> Didn't we get a PERMIT to hold this grand and glorious gala at the Gaol? >>> YIKES! Tis but a minor matter, however. Once the Governor learns that >>> his >>> wife and he are attending - have heard she went to Truro to purchase a >>> new >>> striped silk gown from the very best dressmaker, so they're Definitely >>> coming (she wouldn't miss her chance to show off that dress!!) - I'm >>> sure >>> he'll realize that an unfortunate gaff was made. No offense, and none >>> taken, >>> et cetera, et cetera. >>> >>> Perhaps Mistress Agnes and I should pay a call on our dear Governor, and >>> present the case to him, along with a case of Woolly cider. I'm sure >>> he'll >>> soon see it our way, given our powers of persuasion.(And she can konk >>> him >>> over the head, should they fail!) (a man should never make a pass, at a >>> lass >>> with a pike....) >>> >>> As a last resort, I've gotten in touch with Mr. SHILSON - he of the >>> silver-tongued tribe of lawyers - and he's assured me he will look into >>> your >>> case. The next Assizes aren't for 3 months, so there's plenty of time >>> for >>> him to develop your defence! In that case, I'm sure another set of gay >>> curtains will spruce up the place. Perhaps a pillow or two?? >>> >>> So don't despair, help is on the way! Tempis is futgiting... or however >>> that's spelled.... >>> >>> Julianna, and the Girls >>> >>> ---------------------------------------- >>>> Date: Thu, 20 Dec 2012 22:20:13 -0500 >>>> From: epistles@q.com >>>> To: cornish@rootsweb.com >>>> Subject: Re: [CORNISH] Party 2012 arrival >>>> >>>> Ooh Julia, I too love roasted beast and am thinking of making my >>>> fortune >>>> by setting up a fast food chain serving roasted beast sandwiches. >>>> Meanwhile, I am in desperate trouble. I arrived at Bodmin Gaol and was >>>> wandering down a dismal corridor when a huge hairy prison officer >>>> seized >>>> me and accused me of trying to escape from prison and thrust me into a >>>> dismal, cold, damp grey cell where I am shivering in my chiffon frock >>>> and >>>> hobnail boots. I tried to protest my innocence by explaining that I had >>>> come into the prison, not escaping from it, and now I am charged with >>>> breaking into the prison - so all you guys had better be careful when >>>> you >>>> arrive! I have heard a tap-tap-tapping on the wall and have been >>>> tapping >>>> back and I think it must be Ed incarcerated in the next cell. Help, >>>> help, >>>> help, please come and rescue us. Meanwhile, a food parcel would not be >>>> sniffed at ... >>>> >>>> Best wishes, Joan who wishes she were back in Colorado! >>>> >>>> >>>> ------------------------------- >>>> Subscribe to digest by sending an email to >>>> CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com >>>> with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, >>>> MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. >>>> >>>> Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to >>>> CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. >>>> ------------------------------- >>>> To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to >>>> CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the >>>> quotes in the subject and the body of the message >>> ------------------------------- >>> Subscribe to digest by sending an email to >>> CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com >>> with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, >>> MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. >>> >>> Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to >>> CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. >>> ------------------------------- >>> To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to >>> CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the >>> quotes >>> in the subject and the body of the message >>> >>> >>> ------------------------------- >>> Subscribe to digest by sending an email to >>> CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com >>> with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, >>> MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. >>> >>> Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to >>> CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. >>> ------------------------------- >>> To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to >>> CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the >>> quotes in the subject and the body of the message >> ------------------------------- >> Subscribe to digest by sending an email to CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com >> with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, >> MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. >> >> Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to >> CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. >> ------------------------------- >> To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to >> CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the >> quotes in the subject and the body of the message > ------------------------------- > Subscribe to digest by sending an email to CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com > with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, > MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. > > Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. > ------------------------------- > To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to > CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the quotes > in the subject and the body of the message > > > ------------------------------- > Subscribe to digest by sending an email to CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. > > Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. > ------------------------------- > To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the quotes in the subject and the body of the message >

Hi Julia Feeling more cheerful now, knowing that rescue is near at hand Please bring lots of snaps (preferably the brandy kind, although perhaps I could ask some fellow smugglers for dunking rights to a keg of brandy). I was not looking forward to dining on skinny rats ... and the Keeshonds and puddy tat are great news, as at times the rats seem to look at me in a hungry way that was quite worrisome. And some lonesome nights here have definitely been two dog nights. btw soggy brandy snaps have been know to droop and plop off ... is that worse (decolletage-wise) ? I know of nothing worse tea-wise than to see a slowly sinking piece of broken off dunking . . . . Ed

TAP TAP indeed !! for some reason I seem to have troubles communicating this party year :-(( 'tis some obscure rule of my gaolers that is consigning my tap-taps to their midden On 21/12/2012 03:20, Joan in Colorado wrote: > Ooh Julia, I too love roasted beast and am thinking of making my fortune by setting up a fast food chain serving roasted beast sandwiches. Meanwhile, I am in desperate trouble. I arrived at Bodmin Gaol and was wandering down a dismal corridor when a huge hairy prison officer seized me and accused me of trying to escape from prison and thrust me into a dismal, cold, damp grey cell where I am shivering in my chiffon frock and hobnail boots. I tried to protest my innocence by explaining that I had come into the prison, not escaping from it, and now I am charged with breaking into the prison - so all you guys had better be careful when you arrive! I have heard a tap-tap-tapping on the wall and have been tapping back and I think it must be Ed incarcerated in the next cell. Help, help, help, please come and rescue us. Meanwhile, a food parcel would not be sniffed at ... > > Best wishes, Joan who wishes she were back in Colorado! > > > ------------------------------- > Subscribe to digest by sending an email to CORNISH-D-request@rootsweb.com with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line and body text. If you want, MIME digests, email CORNISH-admin@rootsweb.com. > > Unsubscribe from either by sending an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com. > ------------------------------- > To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to CORNISH-request@rootsweb.com with the word 'unsubscribe' without the quotes in the subject and the body of the message >

Whee Who! That final descent was a hoot! We bumped into one of the Cornish Hobbit habitats, jumped over the Pool, then almost veered into the trees!! It only took a small army of Hobbits to prevent that from happening. The good news is that none of the crumpets, snaps, and kegs of brandy have been damaged. The girls and Shadow, the feline fellow, bounced off to explore the area. 'Tis said the dogs have noses 10,000 times more effective than ours; imagine what all they must smell, and how intense it must be!! It's quite all right, as Koko, the eldest Keeshond, knows that when I put my hand over my head, everyone returns quickly; elsewise, they may not get a treat! She, of course, filled in the other two, and they respond quickly as well. (Well, Shadow might not be - treats aren't his style, unless it's fresh pilchards.) Edward, Eddie, Ed, never despair! We love Cornish men, regardless of 'social station', as long as they like to sing, like to share a sip or two of scrumpy, stout, bitters, and/or brandy (especially with ladies), like to dance (especially jigs and polkas!) and tell stories and jokes! (And turn a blind eye to melting face wax). Besides, Mrs. P, from what Mistress Agnes says, is on the lookout for a dark-eyed Celtic Cornishman who enjoys the above. Just remember, she's wearing Mistress Agnes' third best bun, which might not be too secured - so don't bob about too very enthusiastically in the polka. Mr. Darcy was too far above everyone to enjoy any of that, wasn't he? I believe he was the "Pride" in the book's title, was he not? That Sort is NOT invited. Ye-ough, as the young ladies say nowadays. Should you feel the need, you might be able to borrow clothes of the fellow 2 cells down from you; it seems he spent most of his ill-gotten gains on finery, and has a rather elegant vest, and a fine fustian coat as well. Obviously, since you're able to wander around the grounds of the prison, our mission to the Governor has been successful. Sir Stephen, Steve, our dear Stevey, completely understood the situation, once we explained it three or eleven times. The more hard apple cider we shared, (alias scrumpy) the clearer our message/requests became. We now have total, open permission to celebrate as we wish - complete with Emidy's band, the Hobbits, and everyone else we've invited. (hic!) So party on! Now should Albert, with his wonder dog, appear, our number will be joyously filled. But isn't there any other Lister out there who'd like to join the festivities? As we've said, those ley lines allow for a lot of leeway! And for those of you who might be interested, here's a link (whatever that might be) to a short film on the Keeshond. Both of our girls are the darker type, but our 'baby" looked just like the puppies shown here - and she has a MUCH finer tail that those shown. http://videos.howstuffworks.com/animal-planet/43340-dogs-101-keeshond-video.htm JOY FOREVER ! Julianna and the Girls ---------------------------------------- > Date: Sat, 22 Dec 2012 03:43:50 +0000 > From: olifant@optushome.com.au > To: cornish@rootsweb.com > Subject: Re: [CORNISH] Party 2012 imprisoned! > > My goodness .... everyone is in the fine finery .... and I, like a true > Cornish agricultural labourer am barefooted - a true Hobbit with my > hairy toes and soles. > > As for outer garments (being too poor to afford inner ones), I think I > am in well patch potato sack :-) > > None the less, I am looking forward to some foot stomping dancing with > the ladies > (I am beginning to wish I had come as Mr Darcy ...) > > I better go for a walk outside and let the rain wash away my grime > before I present myself to the Governor and his wife ! > > Ed >

WEST BRITON and CORNWALL ADVERTISER - transcribed by Julia Symons Mosman . 9 JANUARY 1857 . ADVERTISEMENTS . FOR COQUIMBO, CHILI The splendid clipper ship "C O N Q U E R O R" A 1 - 12 years - 600 tons burthen, JOHN RICHARD WILLIAMS, Commander, will sail for Coquimbo on or about Saturday, the 7th of February. Has unequaled accommodation for cabin and steerage passengers. For terms of passage and other particulars, apply to the Captain on board, or to the Owners, RICHARDSON and CO., Copper Ore Wharves, Swansea .................................................... . JOHN R. DAVIES, Australian and American Commercial and Family Boarding House, No. 15, Earl Street, St. Paul's Square (Late of 14 Galton Street) LIVERPOOL . The Celebrated Clipper Ships and Steamers sail for Australia 1st, 5th, 15th, 20th, and 25th of each month. Carrying Mails and Passengers. The Vessels comprising the above Line are all new, and rank among the fastest, finest, and largest Ships in the world; while their fittings and general arrangements are unsurpassed by any other Ships afloat. . The Celebrated Steam Ships sail from Liverpool for New York, Philadelphia, and Baltimore, twice a month. . The regular Line of Packet Ships for New York, on the 1st, 6th, 12th, 16th, 20th, and 26th of each month. For Boston, 5th and 20th of each month. For Philadelphia, 12th of each month. For New Orleans and Quebec every ten days. . Every information given respecting the sailing of the different Lines of Australian and American Packet Ships and Steamers, and the most direct Routes to Liverpool. Rates of Passage, Scales of Provisions, &c., will be forwarded by return of Post, by enclosing a Postage Stamp. . Parties are requested to write to the above before leaving their homes, stating the way they intend to come, (by railway or steamboat) when they will be met on their arrival by J.D., thus doing away with the inconvenience of being led astray by unprincipled parties. . Good Stores for Luggage free of charge. .......................................... . LOCAL INTELLIGENCE . TRURO WORKING MAN'S INSTITUTION SQUARE - A very pleasing meeting took place on Friday last, in connexion with this institution, which was formed in the course of the past year for the benefit of the working men of Truro. The soiree took place at the Assembly-room, and included in its proceedings a tea-meeting, addresses, a vocal and instrumental concert, and a ball. . The Assembly-room was very gaily and tastefully decorated for the occasion, with wreaths and festoons of evergreens, an abundance of flags (including some emblematical of the trades of Truro, carried at the peace demonstration last year), and decorations of ribbons and rosettes adorning the evergreens, the whole having an elegant and striking appearance, whilst at the head of the room, over the platform, the words "Truro Working Man's Institute" were displayed. Great credit is due to the officers and committee of the society for the good taste they exhibited in these decorative arrangements, which when a very numerous company were seated at the tea-tables, and subsequently during the concert and ball, had quite a picturesque effect. The materials for the evergreen decorations were supplied from Mr. TWEEDY's grounds at Alverton. The tea commenced at five o'clock, the tables being quite full, and some obliged to wait for a second course; altogether, the number that took tea was about three hundred. Tea being concluded, a vocal concert took place, the president of the institute, Mr. STOKES, in the first place stating that one of the expected singers was unable to attend, and consequently some alteration had to be made in the programme. [The vocal part of the concert was under the direction of Mr. HEMPEL; it would be invidious to mention any particular singer, but two or three of the glees and choruses and one or two solos received the applause of the company.] . [Mr. EMIDY's quadrille band next mounted the platform, its number augmented by two other performers. . We should state that between the vocal and instrumental performances, the President, Mr. STOKES, addressed the numerous assemblage from the platform. He said the main object of this institution was not so much to entertain, as to instruct.] Still, they could not always be pouring over books; they must sometimes have a little entertainment. . ....After speaking of the beneficial influences of music, and to some extent of works of imagination, the President noticed the present condition of the institution. It numbered nearly 200 members, and they had on their shelves 350 volumes; 90 volumes had been added in the last month; and during November, 376 volumes were taken out for reading. When they remembered that in April last this institution did not exist, he thought they might congratulate themselves on their present position. Their success he attributed partly to the institute having nothing to do with politics. . The room was afterwards cleared for the ball, and shortly after ten o'clock, dancing commenced with much spirit. There was a crowded attendance, and quadrilles, waltzes, polkas, &c. were continued till after four the next morning, providing enjoyment and healthful exercise and recreation for a youthful and delighted company. Refreshments were provided in the card-room; and everything connected with the soiree passed off in the most agreeable manner. . PENRYN INSTITUTION - Miss Louisa Foote HAY gave a concert at the institution room on the 5th instant, when one of the largest audiences ever congregated in Penryn bore testimony to the well deserved popularity of that lady and of her clever sisters Alice and Florence. Mr. LODER late of Bath, accompanied on the piano-forte, and in some instances rendered valuable vocal assistance. The music which was chiefly composed of solos selected with excellent taste from many of our old ballads, received the hearty plaudits of the company, whilst many of the songs were encored. Miss Alice HAY also performed her portion of the entertainment with great credit. Mr. Hay's sketches of character elicited warm applause, and caused roars of laughter. . FALMOUTH - On Monday evening, the members of the Redruth Choral Society gave a concert of vocal and instrumental music in the Polytechnic Hall. The attendance was small, which may be partially attributed to the insufficient manner in which they made their intention known. . POOL LITERARY INSTITUTE - On Friday last, about one hundred and twenty persons sat down to an excellent tea, kindly provided by several ladies interested in the welfare of the above institution. The profits amounted to GBP 4. Immediately after the tea, Captain TONKIN, the vice-president of the society, took the chair, and after an opening speech called on Mr. John SERPELL, the secretary, to read the report. [Addresses were delivered by Messrs. TREGENZA, MINERS, and JAMES; valuable papers were read by Captain PROVIS, on Education, and by Master PEARSE, a youth of sixteen, on the simplest method of testing metals and minerals.] . TRESPASSING AND ASSAULT OF A GAMEKEEPER - On the 30th ult., at Lostwithiel, before Mr. SAWLE, M.P., Mr. KENDALL, M.P., Mr. R. FOSTER, and Mr. Nevil NORWAY, magistrates, THOMAS PHILLIPS and WILLIAM BAWDEN were charged with trespassing in search of game on the lands of Mr. RASHLEIGH, of Menabilly; and Phillips was also charged with assaulting Mr. Rashleigh's gamekeeper. . James BUDGE, the gamekeeper, stated that on the 26th of December, when on his rounds on a part called the Gribbon, he heard guns fired, about one o'clock in the afternoon; and going in the direction of the sound he saw two men on the Gribbon, where there are plenty of hares and pheasants, and another man some distance off. Witness and a man called Hick went under the cliff until coming to the plantation, and when they got to the opposite side they saw a man with a gun and a dog. . The gamekeeper said, I afterwards crossed the ground and caught the man. Whilst he was going towards the cliff I shot at his dog which was following him, and wounded it. Phillips then turned round and said he'd be d-----d if he wouldn't shoot me, and presented the gun at me. I then turned round, and the other prisoner, Bawden, was coming towards me; he had also a gun; I ran after him about forty yards, and caught him and held him for several minutes. I tried to take away his gun, but he held his hand away and would not let me. . I asked his name, and he said he was called RUNDLE, of Tywardreath, which I knew was false. Whilst I was holding him he called for assistance, and Phillips came back and held the gun up to my head, and said, "I'll shoot you for shooting my dog." He still held the gun close to my head, and said, "if you don't let that other man go, I'll shoot you." He afterwards turned ends with the gun, and the butt end came close to my head. He said he would beat my brains out. . Henry HICKS, the person who was out with me, gave me his stick, with which I knocked Phillips down; Bawden then ran off. When they were both about half way down the cliff I again fired at the dog and killed it; Phillips came back and picked it up. There was another person in a boat under the cliff, but I don't know who it was; both prisoners asked him to come up, but he refused. . Henry HICKS gave corroborative evidence, and said from every appearance Phillips was the man, but he could not undertake to swear to him; he could swear to Bawden. Both prisoners denied that they had ever seen the gamekeeper before. The magistrates retired to consider the case, and on their return fined Phillips and Bawden GBP 5 each and costs for poaching, or in default to be imprisoned for three months each with hard labour. They also fined Phillips GBP 5 for the assault, and in default to be further imprisoned for two months with hard labour. . FALMOUTH UNION - On Christmas-Day the inmates of the Falmouth Union were regaled with a plentiful supply of beef and plum pudding, and on New Year's day with tea and cake. They all appeared to enjoy the treat and expressed a desire that their best and most grateful acknowledgments be presented to the Rev. Mr. SCRIVENER and other friends who aided in contributing so bountifully towards their enjoyment, and also to the master and matron who showed themselves desirous to do everything that would add to their comfort. . TRURO POLICE - On the 8th instant, before the Mayor, Mr. PADDON, and Mr. CHAPPEL, Sarah MARTIN was charged with being drunk and disorderly and making use of obscene language in Calenick-street, on Wednesday last, she was found guilty and committed to the house of correction for fourteen days. . CAUTION TO MARINE STORE DEALERS - On Monday last, before Mr. E. MICHELL, Mayor of Truro, Capt. KEMPE, and Messrs. STOKES, NANKIVELL, CHAPPEL, and PADDON, magistrates. SIMON RICHARDS, marine store dealer, Truro, was summoned for neglecting to make proper entries of certain articles he had purchased, used in the printing business. . It appeared from the evidence that James SHOLL, a boy of thirteen years of age, apprentice to Mrs. HEARD and Sons, Truro, on Friday last, went to Mr. Heard and told him that he had something on his mind, and his mind was not easy, because he had several times taken things from the printing office and sold at Richards's marine store shop. On hearing this confession Mr. Heard communicated with Mr. NASH, police superintendent, who went to several marine store shops in town, and amongst them to Richards's where he found a quantity of brass and copper. The brass consisted of rules of different lengths, column and imprint rules, and a brass composing stick. The weight of the brass found was 5 ¾ lbs., and Mrs. Richards had purchased it of this little boy for 6d. a lb., whereas it was stated by Mr. Heard that the articles had cost at rates varying from 2s.6d. to 8s per lb. . Simon Richards goes out to daily work, and the business is carried on in his absence by his wife, who acknowledged that she had purchased of the boy four times. On examining the book of entries of purchases (required to be kept by Act of Parliament) it was found that she had made only two entries of 1 ½ lb. each time. The first sale by the boy was in the beginning of December, when he gave the name of William Williams, St. Clement-street. The boy confessed that he sold the articles produced in court, and some of them were identified by Mr. Jas. WILLIAMS, from the printing office. Considering the temptations held out by marine store dealers carrying on business in this way, and the neglect to make proper entries, the magistrates inflicted the low fine of GBP 5 on Richards, besides 11s. expenses. . FAT PIG - Mr. Henry THOMAS of Treswithan, in the parish of Veryan, killed a pig on Monday last which weighed 703 lbs. . HELSTON – It appears that a report has been circulated for some time past, that this borough has been of late in an unhealthy state. In contradiction of this Mr. WEARNE writes us to state that the mortality of that borough has not at all exceeded its ordinary rate, and especially with respect to fever; that within the sub-district of Helston, comprising a population of 5,000, only one fatal case of fever has occurred during the last six months. . EARLY LAMBING - A ewe belonging to Mr. HODGE, of Veryan, had two lambs on Friday last. . APPOINTMENT - Mr. C.J. KINSMAN, son of Lieutenant KINSMAN, R.N., has obtained a commission in the Marines, and been selected for the Artillery company, within six months of his admission, instead of the usual two years. In his first examination, we understand he answered every paper, and obtained the maximum number of marks within half the time allowed each day. Mr. Kinsman was prepared by Dr. DRAKE, of St. Austell. . TESTIMONIAL - The friends of the temperance cause, residing in Truro, have recently presented to Mr. James UREN, of that town, a handsomely bound quarto volume of the Holy Scriptures, as a testimony of their appreciating of his untiring zeal for nearly twenty years, to promote the principles of total abstinence from all intoxicating liquors as beverages. . PENZANCE QUARTER SESSIONS - The Winter Quarter Sessions for this borough were held on Friday last, before Mr. BEVAN, recorder. The following magistrates were also on the bench; The Mayor (Mr. T. COULSON), Mr. W. BORLASE, and Mr. J. BATTEN. There was no prisoner for trial, a circumstance which has occurred thrice since January, 1856. The gaol, too, has been empty for a considerable time during the past three months. The Mayor, as is customary on such occasions, presented the Recorder with a pair of white kid gloves. . St. WENN - An accident of a very serious nature occurred at Treganetha, in this parish, to Henry BRENTON, the blacksmith residing in the village. It appears that the poor fellow was engaged in his workshop on the evening of the 30th ult., putting some hoops on a cask, a person named Thomas BEST assisting him. Some horses were standing in the shop waiting to be shod near where Brenton was at work about the cask, and when in a stooping position he received a violent kick on the head from one of them. The kick was so sudden and unexpected, that it was not until the poor man was laid prostate and insensible, that his companion Best was aware of the accident. . Mr. Moorman, surgeon, of St. Columb, was soon on the spot, when it was found that Brenton had received a frightful fracture of the skull and scarcely any hope was entertained of his surviving the accident. But under the skilful treatment of Mr. Moorman, we are glad to find he is progressing favourably. . ACCIDENT – On Tuesday last, as Captain COOPE, son of the Rev. W.J. COOPE, of Falmouth, was driving along Dunstanville Terrace, with a friend in a dog-cart, the horse shied and pitched them out, when Capt. Coope had his leg broken in two places. He was immediately taken home and was attended by Mr. Bullmore, and we hear is progressing well. . DEATH FROM BURNING - On Saturday the 27th ult., Catherine WILLCOCKS, daughter of Mr. James WILLCOCKS, of Callington, aged six and a half years, caught her clothes on fire and ran into the street, Mr. MATTHEWS, office of excise who was passing at the time, immediately took off a loose overcoat which he was wearing and wrapped tightly around the child and extinguished the flames, but the injury sustained was so great that death terminated her sufferings on Monday the 5th instant. A coroner's inquest was held on the same day and a verdict in accordance with the circumstance returned. . CORONER’S INQUESTS - On Wednesday an inquest was held at the Railway Inn, Truro, before Mr. John CARLYON, county coroner, on the body of John PHILLIPS, labourer, aged sixty-seven years, who was found dead in a hayloft near the viaduct at Carvedras, on Tuesday morning, by the ostler of the Globe Inn, who went there to throw down some fodder for his master's cattle. The deceased had formerly been in good service, but of late he had sunk into idle drunken habits, and had no place that he could call his home. He was consequently in the habit of sleeping in outhouses. He had evidently gone into the loft in question on Monday night for that purpose, and it being a very cold night, and the doors of the loft being wide open, it was clear that he had died from want and exposure to the weather. Verdict accordingly. . An inquest was held by Mr. Gilbert HAMLEY, county coroner, on Friday last, at Bodmin, on the body of Jane CLEMES, who was found dead in her bed on the preceding morning. Deceased had been unwell for some time, but showed no appearance of increased illness up to the usual bed time of her family on the previous evening. Verdict, "died from natural causes." . Letter to the Editor . Sir - Convinced that it is not your desire that the West Briton should be the means of giving to the public false information, or conveying wrong impressions, I take the liberty of setting you and them right on the matter of one of your paragraphs, contained in your last Friday's number, and headed "Clerical Oppression." . I begin my explanation by saying that there is scarcely a single word of truth in the whole paragraph. Philip HAWKE was not summoned for "absenting himself from the parish church" nor "for neglecting to appear at the complainant's dinner table in the kitchen." Strange times ours would be indeed if the law made a man amenable for such trifles! . He was summoned as the complainant's hind for absenting himself from his work on three several occasions, (former delinquencies of a similar kind having been overlooked and forgiven) and on those occasions neglecting the duties which attached to his situation as hind. . The bench did not "hear both parties" - the defendant was never called on for his defense and never uttered a word in the court for the case was dismissed before his defence was needed - and for this reason - not, as your paragraph has it, "because the bench were of opinion that the proceeding was one which ought never to have been brought before them" but on a legal point. Hawke was the complainant's groom as well as hind, and not being solely a servant employed in husbandry the case did not come within the cognisance of the bench. . The circumstances of the defendant "being the son of a respectable farmer," as to his being "applied to by Mr. Barton," as to the "amount of his wages," and the "motive he had for entering Mr. Barton's service" "his giving notice to leave it", or his "master's chagrin," not one syllable of this was "communicated to the bench". The whole details are evidently communicated to you by a prejudiced correspondent. Perhaps I should be justified in saying, by one who has no respect for truth. In confirmation of what I have written I place my name in your hands to be used according to discretion. So far as the public are concerned, it will be sufficient to subscribe myself, . Sir, your obedient servant, . One of the Magistrates on the Bench at St. Columb January 3rd, 1857