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Scottish Proverbs (J)
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you might need a Scots Dictionary )
JEDDART
justice--first hang a man syne try him.
"According to Crawford, in his Memoirs, the phrase Jedburgh
justice took its use in 1574, on the occasion of the Regent Morton
there and then trying and condemning, with cruel precipitation,
a vast number of people who had offended against the laws, or
against the supreme cause of his lordships faction. A different
origin is assigned by the people. Upon the occasion, say they,
of nearly twenty criminals being tried for one offence, the jury
were equally divided in opinion as to a verdict, when one who
had been asleep during the whole trial suddenly awoke, and, being
interrogated for his vote, vociferated, 'Hang them a' !'
"The English phrase 'Lidford Law,' commemorated by Grose,
bears the same signification."-- Robert Chambers.
Jock's a mislear'd imp, but ye're a run deil.
That is, "Jock," although very mischievous, is a quiet
and well-behaved person compared to you.
Joke at leisure; ye kenna wha may jibe yoursel.
Jouk, and let the jaw gang by.
Literally, stoop, and let the rush of water go over your head;
meaning, yield to adverse circumstances, and their effects will
pass away.
"Just as it fa's," quo' the wooer to the maid.
"A courtier went to woo a maid she was dressing supper with
a drop at her nose. She asked him if he would stay all night;
he answered, 'Just as it falls:' meaning, if the drop fell among
the meat, he would be off; if it fell by, he would stay."--
Kelly.
Just enough and nae mair, like Janet Howie's shearer's meat.
Just, father, just; three half-crowns mak five shillings; gie
me the money and I'll pay the man.
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