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The Christmas gambol

The accompanying sketch, from the pencil of Mr. Maclise, will describe better than language can do the singular ceremony, and the fantastic group by whom it is conducted. This is, we believe, the only Christmas gambol remaining in Ireland of the many, that in the middle ages were so numerous and so dangerous as to call for the interposition of the law, and the strong arm of magisterial authority. As to the origin of the whimsical but absurd and cruel custom, we have no data. A legend, however, is still current among the peasantry which may serve in some degree to elucidate it.

In a grand assembly of all the birds of the air, it was determined that the sovereignty of the feathered tribe should be conferred upon the one who would fly highest. The favourite in the betting-book was, of course, the eagle, who at once, and in full confidence of victory, commenced his flight towards the sun; when he had vastly distanced all competitors, he proclaimed with a mighty voice his monarchy over all things that had wings. Suddenly, however, the wren, who had secreted himself under the feathers of the eagle's crest, popped from his hiding-place, flew a few inches upwards, and chirped out as loudly as he could, 'Birds, look up and behold your king.'

From Ireland, Its Scenery, Character, &c, by Mr & Mrs S. C. Hall, circa 1850.

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