_Cock and Bull Story._--One of your correspondents, in a late reply
(Vol. iv., p. 243.), alludes to "a marvellous or _cock and bull_ story."
Query, as to the origin of this saying. From an early number of the
_Phonetic Journal_ made the following Note.
Dr. Burgess, a Methodist preacher, who often indulged in pointed
remarks, perceiving some young men attending his preaching, whose
behaviour plainly showed that amusement was their only object, turned
his discourse, and addressed himself particularly to them as follows:--
"Young men, I know you are come to hear a story, and I will tell
you one. There was once a man, a cock, and a bull, who, being
intimate, agreed to travel together. They had not gone far on
their journey when they found themselves on the brink of a river,
which they had determined to cross, but could discover neither
bridge nor ferry. After a consultation it was agreed the cock
should first make the attempt of crossing the water, which he did
without much difficulty; the bull afterwards plunged into the
stream, and by mere strength waded through. The man, not being
able to swim, was afraid to follow his companions; and while they
were encouraging him from the other side to get over, he was
observed to cut some osiers which grew by the water-side. Perhaps
you imagine these were intended to form a vehicle for conveying
him across the river? No such thing, I assure you. What other
purpose could he design them for? I will tell you, young men; it
was to lash the backs of those fools who chose to hear a story of
a cock and a bull, rather than the word of God."