Note 1304 — Chapter X · RISE OF CIVIL MARRIAGE
Reading edition
Hence the ridicule of Butler, Hudibras, Part III, c. 2, 303-10 (Boston, 1864), II, 18:
"Others were for abolishing That tool of matrimony, a ring, With which th' unsanctify'd bridegroom Is marry'd only to a thumb (As wise as ringing of a pig, That us'd to break up ground and dig), The bride to nothing but her will, That nulls the after-marriage still."