Note 1 — THE FEATHERED FIEND.
Reading edition
The once general custom of “touching the cravel” for the purpose of averting evils foreshadowed by ill-omens, &c., seems to have almost died out with the disuse of open fire-places for burning furze and turf.
Some fifty years ago the practice must have been known all over the county, and farther off. A “pellar,” called Lutey, then in great repute, enjoined those under his “protection” to perform the rite at stated periods, as a safeguard against witchcraft and bad luck generally. In the spring—as soon as there was twelve hours sun—this wise man was resorted to by people from all parts of the county, and farther away, to have their “protection” renewed. This was always the term used, and its meaning well understood. Great numbers came over from the Scilly Islands, and the captains and crews of Welsh vessels trading to Hayle often sought this conjurer’s aid.
One may hope that the pleasant old Christmas pastime of burning ivy-leaves and rushes was still observed, last Twelfth-night, in some outlying hamlets where the good folks are not yet so “enlightened” as to conceive that they know much more than their grandparents.
Those who have taken part in this old observance for obtaining presages regarding the most important events of life, know that “touching the cravel” must be carefully complied with on leaving the hearth to gather what they require; and the first thing on their return, before any of them may speak, and their more interesting rites commence.
If any of the company happen to speak by the way, the charm is spoiled, and the seeming presages will be unreliable, unless the incautious ones return, touch the cravel, and resume the work.
One may be excused for dwelling so long on these almost forgotten customs, as they may have some significance, interesting to antiquaries at least. It is high time to glean the little that remains of old-world observances; for even in such remote places as the northern parishes, most folks, under middle age, are chary of giving any information about them. ↑