Note 50 — Chapter VI · SOME RURAL FESTIVALS AND CEREMONIES.

This is a most interesting analogue of a branch of European folk-lore which has been copiously illustrated by Mr. Frazer.50 It is the Devon custom of “Crying the Neck.” The last sheaf is the impersonation of the Corn Mother, and is worshipped accordingly. We have met already with the same idea in the reservation of small patches of the original forest for the accommodation of the spirits of the jungle.