Janus was invoked at the commencement of most actions; even in the worship of the other gods the votary began by offering wine and incense to Janus. The first month in the year was named from him; and under the title of Matutinus he was regarded as the opener of the day. Hence he had charge of the gates of Heaven, and hence, too, all gates, Janua, were called after him, and supposed to be under his care. Hence, perhaps, it was, that he was represented with a staff and key, and that he was named the Opener (Patulcius), and the Shutter (Clusius). M. A. DWIGHT Grecian and Roman Mythology. Janus. That blasts of January Who comes with Summer to this earth Can health, wealth, and long life command. The glowing Ruby should adorn The August-born without this stone A maiden born when Autumn leaves Who first comes to this world below If cold December gave you birth, In Notes and Queries, May 11, 1889. P. 371. 16 If that a pearl may in a toad's head dwell, And may be found too in an oyster shell. BUNYAN-Apology for his Book. L. 89. 17 Black is a pearl in a woman's eye. GEORGE CHAPMAN-An Humorous Day's Mirth. Burke said there were Three Estates in Parliament; but, in the Reporter's gallery yonder, there sat a fourth estate more important far than they all. CARLYLE-Heroes and Hero-Worship. Lecture V. Burke is credited with having invented the term, but it does not appear in his published works. The "three estates of the realm" are the Lords Spiritual, The Lords Temporal, and the Commons. DAVID LINDSLAY-Ane pleasant satyre of the Three Estatis. (1535) RABELAIS-in Pantagruel, 4-48 describes a monk, a falconer, a lawyer, and a husbandman called the "four estates of the island." (Les quatre estatz de l'isle.) Did Charity prevail, the press would prove A vehicle of virtue, truth, and love. COWPER Charity. L. 624. 19 How shall I speak thee, or thy power address, Thou God of our idolatry, the Press. * * * * Like Eden's dead probationary tree, Knowledge of good and evil is from thee. COWPER-Progress of Error. L. 452. |