Foolscap

The pointed cap worn anciently by profe ional jesters, and now by the clown in a circus. -A kind of paper next to, and larger than post. (So called from the water-mark of a fool's cap used anciently by paper-makers.) Fools, (Feast of.) ( Hist . ) The name of a festival regularly celebrated, with the most absurd ceremonies, both by clergy and laity in several countries in Europe, from the 5th down to the 16th century. It is said to have been introduced in imitation of the Roman Saturnalia , and its celebration took place about the same time, the great day being New-Year's day; but the ceremonies were often continued from Christmas to the last Sunday of Epiphany. At first only the boys of the choir and young sacristans played the principal part in them; but afterwards all the inferior servants of the church, and even laymen, engaged in them; while the bishops and other clergy formed part of the audience. A Bishop of Unreason was appointed, the forms and ceremonies of the church were travestied, indecent songs were sung, dancing was carried on, and all manner of fooleries enacted. The a often played an important part in the proceedings, being sometimes led towards the altar and having hymns sung in its honor. The Feast of Fools was condemned by several popes and bishops in the 15th century, and the Council of Basle, in 1435, expre ed its detestation of this and several other festivals; but it continued to be observed in many places down to the time of the Reformation. Fool's Parsley, n . ( Bot .) Ethusia cynapium , the only species of the genus Ethusia , order Apiaceæ , grows wild in some places in the N. States. It somewhat resembles parsley in its foliage and general appearance, so that serious accidents may occur, as is frequently the case in Europe, from its being mistaken for that herb, it being a poisonous plant, similar to hemlock in its properties. When in flower, it is readily known from every other plant by its umbels wanting general involucre, and having partial involucres of three slender leaves hanging down on one side.