Notes and Queries, Number 51, October 19, 1850

A mid‑nineteenth‑century issue of this lively scholarly exchange brings together literary lovers, antiquarians, genealogists and curious minds in a single, modestly priced volume. Readers will find short notes that probe obscure medieval verses, brief queries about everything from coin‑weight standards to the meaning of archaic words, and thoughtful replies that stitch together specialist knowledge. The layout feels like leafing through a bustling café conversation where expertise is shared without pretension.

One standout discussion traces the elusive figure “Roberd the Robber,” examining medieval passages, statutory language and early references that hint at a possible ancestor of the legendary Robin Hood. The article weaves together Latin songs, legal texts and folklore theories, inviting listeners to contemplate how names and myths evolve across centuries. Scattered throughout are similarly vivid fragments—queries on Shakespeare’s diction, the origins of “Arabic numerals,” and the curious use of Roman egg‑cups—making the volume a treasure trove for anyone who enjoys piecing together history’s smaller puzzles.