Word: grinder
(lookup in dictionary)
(lookup stats)
Dates: during 1870-1879
Sort By: most recent first
(reverse)
...although the College gates are closed but once in twenty years, yet the vender of melodies rarely ventures through them, conscious that in whatsoever remote corner he may establish himself, the venerable Ubiquity will invite him to depart thence. But in spite of the antipathy displayed for the organ-grinder by the powers that preside over our studies, the student himself will infinitely prefer the performances of that much-abused personage, to those of the man overhead whose rowing-weights send forth a most distressing discord, half rumble, half squeak, or, still worse, whose religious enthusiasm finds its vent...
...however unfriendly a reception may be accorded to the organ-grinder within these classic precincts, in less cultured yards he is sure of an enthusiastic and appreciative audience who drink in the charms of music and monkey with open mouths. Put him in front of a bay-window, with a couple of babies looking out in the seventh heaven of ecstasy, and a nurse to take off his hat to, and to lavish his most winning smile upon, and it will be hard to find a more contented being than Signor Smitherini. He knows that he is inspiring...