370 



COCK MASS. 



groom was also of dark colour ; he wore a coat 

 of brown cloth, a waistcoat of brocaded silk, and 

 nankeen pantaloons ; he had on shoes with large 

 buckles, and a cocked hat. Both of these per- 

 sons were young, and they seemed to be dread- 

 fully hampered with the increased stock of appa- 

 rel which they carried. The scene at dinner 

 was a counterpart of the breakfast affair, with 

 the addition of more noise and more confusion, 

 which were caused by a larger assemblage of 

 people, and more plentiful draughts of wine and 

 rum. I escaped as soon as possible ; but would 

 not on any account have missed being present 

 at this day's work. 



On the night of Christmas eve, I did not go 

 to-bed ; for we were to hear the Missa do Gallo, 

 or cock mass, as is customary. The priest 

 arrived, and the night was spent merrily. This 

 person did not at that time come regularly as a 

 chaplain, but he was so engaged afterwards. 



