3-004-008 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Christmas mummers - drawn by A. Hunt, 1861. '...the Mummer...is of a class not too high for good-fellowship, nor too low for self-respect. He is generally of the middle order, for your noble is too proud to mingle in such merely popular sports, and your peasant is too unlearned...The Mummer...must...know something about St. George and the Dragon...and other romances...which may fitly be made the theme of pastime at the joyous and yet sacred Christmas-tide...To the people of the Hall it is welcome after a fashion. The Squire and his lady are interested, but the aristocratic youth regard it rather superciliously, as something to be tolerated; while the menials are disposed to enjoy the pageant. One of these holds a candle, that she may regard it in a better light; and another treats the thirsty Drummer with a mug of ale, which he well deserves. He and his suite come to that Hall for largess, and they shall not be disappointed...On the other side we have the peasantry, in their smock-frocks, staring with wonder, and anxious to find matter for mirth in the passing incidents. The Dragon is an object of much interest; for the child is frightened at the monster, and the dog barks at it, while the mother encourages her boy to approach it nearer'. From "Illustrated London News", 1861.