Lancashire Legends, Traditions, Pageants, Sports, &c./Part 6/Superstitions respecting Fish and Bacon

FISH AND BACON

Are included in the same category of superstitions, and various rules have been laid down for the guidance of family purveyors. Shell-fish are not considered to be wholesome in any month whose name does not contain the letter R. There is, however, one exception:—

"Cockles and ray,
Come in in May."

Pigs are popularly said to be able "to see the wind," in consequence of their restlessness before and during stormy weather. We are advised never to kill domestic pigs during the waning of the moon; for then their flesh is unwholesome, and will not absorb the salt The following caution is also current throughout the county:—

"Unless your bacon you would mar,
Kill not your pig without the R."

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