Note 54 — Chapter VII
Reading edition
Most of the ridiculous answers said to have been made at examinations are mere humorous inventions. We almost think there must be a slight improvement made in the following, though they are upon the authority of an examiner,
What are the great Jewish Feasts? Purim, Urim, and Thummin. What bounded Samaria on the East? The Jordan. What on the West? The other side of Jordan. Derive an English word from the Latin necto? Necktie.
Nor can we doubt that a slight humorous colouring has been introduced into the following from the "Memorials of Archibald Constable," recently published by his son.—An old deaf relation said on her death-bed to her attendant, "Ann, if I should be spared, I hope my nephew will get the doctor to open my head, and see whether anything can be done for my hearing."