Note 25 — MINSTRELSY OF THE SCOTTISH BORDER. PART SECOND—CONTINUED. ROMANTIC BALLADS. (continued 2)
Reading edition
A singular custom is observed at conferring the freedom of the burgh. Four or five bristles, such as are used by shoemakers, are attached to the seal of the burgess ticket. These the new-made burgess must dip in his wine, and pass through his mouth, in token of respect for the souters of Selkirk. This ceremony is on no account dispensed with.