19 DECEMBER 1987, Page 58

Popular etymology

Sir: Auberon Waugh (Letters, 29 Novem- ber) is incorrect about the origin of the world pilger. Its origin is in the early 17th-century phrase, `to waugh the pilger'; i.e. one hobby horse riding the other.

Thus, from Christopher Delves's play (1607) The Maid of York:

Horseman and rider were as closely linked As night follows day so waugh the pilger.

Guy Speaght

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