19 
After noticing the vast number of deities which existed 
according to the mythological systems of the ancients, the 
transference of some portions of their religious ceremonials is 
pointed out, and the modifications which have taken place in 
order to adapt those of the South to the less polished notions 
of the inhabitants of the North. The identity of many of our 
popular tales and traditions with those of older nations, may 
still be detected, as is proved by a reference to Roby’s Tra- 
ditions and other similar works. The subject of Oracles is 
then alluded to, and their correspondence with ventriloquism 
and clairvoyance is endeavoured to be established. The 
Greek and Roman Folk-lore is then examined in detail, and 
its bearings upon our own are illustrated by numerous 
examples. An instance of the transfer of a familiar spirit 
concludes this portion of the subject. 
The Folk-lore of the Saxons and Danes is then compared 
with that which at present exists in Lancashire; various 
charms are enumerated, and many instances given of the preva- 
lence of divination and medico-astrology, almost identical Muth 
the same classes of superstition amongst our former conquerors. 
The Fairy mythology is then passed under review. Its 
existence in Lancashire does not admit of doubt, and much of 
this is identical with the mythology of the Saxons and Danes. 
Various portions of it have been christianize^ so to speak, 
but its essential characteristics have been preserved. The 
Folk-lore of Shakespere is alluded to, and instances of goblin 
builders, imps, boggarts, and the presence of the evil one, &c., 
are adduced from local experience. Crofton Croker appears 
to be mistaken when he asserts that such superstitions are fast 
disappearing ; and the presence of a fairy, and the existence 
of an “underground city” at the Roman station on Mellor 
Moor, are advanced as proofs to the contrary. The Water 
Sprites are next enumerated with the superstitions still existing 
respecting them. The existence of “ neck,” “ old scrat,’’ 
“ trash,” or “ skriker,” is proved by instances of their reputed 
