Religious meetings and exercises used to discuss Biblical passages and sermons, which were often considered to threaten the officially-sanctioned understanding the Bible.
Prophesyings
Fact of the Day
The earliest book of English table manners was written by Daniel of Beccles in the time of Henry II. It prohibited elbows on tables, talking with full mouths and scratching armpits. It also gave guidance on what to do if the wife of the host were to make a pass at a guest: he should feign illness.
Quote of the Day
"Think only of the past as its remembrance gives you pleasure.
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~ Jane Austen (Pride and Prejudice)
On This Day
1787 The 'First Fleet' of 11 ships carrying convicts to Australia left England.
1888 Slavery was abolished in Brazil.