[Beloe, in his _Anecdotes of Literature_, vol. ii. pp. 146-157.,
has left us some curious notices of this kind of vulgar
literature, of English pure and undefiled from the "knowledge box"
of Thomas Decker. But the most complete _Lexicon Balatronicum et
Macaronicum_ was published in 1754, enriched with many "a word not
in Johnson," and which leaves at a respectful distance the
glossorial labours of Spelman, Ducange, Junius, and even the
renowned Francis Grose and his _Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar
Tongue_. It is entitled _The Scoundrel's Dictionary_; or, an
Explanation of the Cant Words used by Thieves, Housebreakers,
Street Robbers, and Pickpockets. To which are prefixed some
Curious Dissertations on the Art of Wheedling; and a Collection of
Flash Songs, with a proper Glossary, 8vo., London, 1754.]
_Muggleton and Reeve._--I wish to obtain some accurate information as to
John Reeve and Rodowick Muggleton, the founders of the sect called
Muggletonians, which appears to have been in existence up to the end of
the last century. Mr. Macaulay calls Muggleton "a drunken tailor," but
gives no reference. The article "Muggletonians" in the _Encyclopædia
Britannica_ is extremely meagre, both in matter and length. Is there any
authentic portrait of Reeve or Muggleton? Any information on these
points, or indication as to where it may be found, will greatly oblige