Flitch of bacon custom the Plowman", In the present passage we have the earliest known allusion to the singular custom known as that of "the Dunmow flitch of Bacon." The custom was—"that if any pair could, after a twelvemonth of matrimony, come forward, and make oath at Dunmow [co. Essex] that, during the whole time, they had never had a quarrel, never regretted their marriage, and, if again open to an engagement, would make exactly that they had made, they should be rewarded with a flitch of Bacon." It is referred to in Chaucer (1343–1400) in a way that makes clear the reference would
O What a Savior and gave His life-blood,<br> To make the vilest sinner clean. O what a Savior, O hallelujah!<br> His heart was broken on Calvary,<br> His hands were nail scarred,<br> His side was riven,<br> He gave His life-blood for even me. Death's chilly waters I'll soon be crossing,<br> His hand will lead me safe o're,<br> I'll join the chorus in that bright city,<br> And sing up there forever more. O what a Savior, O hallelujah!<br> His heart was broken on Calvary,<br> His hands were nail scarred,<br> His side was riven,<br> He gave His life-blood for even me. O What a Savior "O What