_Corruptions recognised as acknowledged Words._--I recollect two curious
historical instances of mere vulgar mis-pronunciation, which have
established themselves in use; perhaps others of your readers may
mention more, which it would be interesting to trace to their origin.
_Massaniello_ is universally recognised as the name of the celebrated
Neapolitan insurrectionist, who at one time nearly overturned the
government of that kingdom. How few who use the word are aware that
"Mas-Aniello" is but a corruption of _Thomas Aniello_, so pronounced by
his vulgar companions, and now raised to the dignity of an historical
name.
_Hougoumont_ is a conspicuous feature of the great field of Waterloo,
and a name familiarly used in speaking of the famous battle; in course
of time it will be forgotten that this is a mere mistake, said to have
originated with the great general who achieved the victory, catching up
from the peasantry around, the sound of _Chateau Goumont_, the real name
of the little rural demesne in question. Nobody doubts, however, the
right of the "Great Duke" to call a place he has made so famous by any
name he might please to apply, and so _Hougoumont_ it will remain while
history lasts.