Rensselaer Union, Volume 9, Number 39, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 14 June 1877 — Swearing in Cromwell's Time. [ARTICLE]

Swearing in Cromwell's Time.

Laws against swearing were strictly inforced during, the times of the Commonwealth, and with the largest possible enterpretation against the accused. We are reminded of the reproof that Sir Waiter Scott put into the mouth of Cromwell: “ What can it avail thee to practice a profanity so horrible to the ears of Others, and whicli brings no emolument to him who uses ?” Every oath was counted. For a single oath the fine was 6s. Bd., but the charge was reduced to 3.4td. each “on taking a quantity.” Humfrey Trevett, for swearing ten oaths, was committed till be pay 335. 4d. to the poor of Harford. John uuisbe, of Cheriton, Mas convicted for swearing twenty-two oaths and two curses- at one time, and four oaths and one curse at another time. Of course the greater number of these cases were disposed of at Petty Sessions without being sent for trial. One Justice returned the names of ten persons whom he had convicted of swearing since the previous sessions. We are not left without examples of what was considered swearing in those days. William Bearding,of Chitllehamptt», for saying two several times in court, “ Upon my life,” was adjudged to be within the act of sweanhg, for which he paid 6s Bd. Thomas Butland was fined for swearing “On my troth.” Gilbert Northcott had to pay Bs. 4d for saying “Upon my life." Thomas Courtis was fined for swearing in court “God is my witness," and “ I speak in tbe presence of God.” Christopher Gill, being reproved by Mr. Nathaniel Durant, clerk, “for having used the oath, God’s Life, iu discourse,” went and informed against the minister himself for swearing.— Frazer'* Magazine. _ *" ~ Good authorities estimated tbe last cotton crop in the United States at 4,100,000 bales It turns out to be 4,500,000 The crop in Egypt and India was larger than expected, and there is enough of the raw product to last until the beginning of the new crop year. —The sewing-mkehine companies have determined to sell for cash and reduce prices almost one-half. There’s sense in that movement.— Detroit Ftu Prett.