All these
floated along with the immense tide of population, whom mere
curiosity had drawn together; and where the mechanic, in his leathern
apron, elbowed the dink and dainty dame, his city mistress; where
clowns with hobnailed shoes were treading on the kibes of
substantial burghers and gentlemen of worship; and where Joan of the
dairy, with robust pace and red sturdy arms, rowed her way onwards,
amongst those prim and pretty moppets, whose sires were knights and
squires. The throng and confusion was, however, of a gay and cheerful
character. All came forth to see and to enjoy, and all laughed at the
trifling inconveniences which at another time might have chafed their
temper. Excepting the occasional brawls we have mentioned among that
irritable race the Carmen, the mingled sounds which arose from the
multitude were those of light-hearted mirth and tiptoe jollity. The
musicians preluded on their instruments--the minstrels hummed their
songs--the licensed jester whooped betwixt mirth and madness, as he
brandished his bauble--the morrice-dancers jangled their bells--the
rustics hallow'd and whistled--men laughed loud, and maidens giggled
shrill; while many a broad jest flew like a shuttle-cock from one
party to be caught in the air, and returned from the opposite side of
the road by another, at which it was aimed.
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