subs. phr. (common).—Butcher’s music to new-married couples: formerly there was a regular peal in every parish.
1786. GROSE, A Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue, s.v.
1789. G. PARKER, Life’s Painter, ‘The Happy Pair.’
| Ye butchers bring your CLEAVERS too, | |
| Likewise your MARROW-BONES. |
1844. BUCKSTONE, The Maid with the Milking Pail. Of course; all in honour, church, parson, MARROW-BONES AND CLEAVERS, and all that! Now, as I’m a man o’ my word, I ask your hand in mattermony.
