A Copy of Verses for the Year 1830, Humbly Presented to all his Worthy Masters and Mistresses In the Parish of St. Sepulchres, Middlesex

Christmas greetings sheet or 'bellman's verse' conveying the good wishes of John Newton Beadle and Bellman to the inhabitants of his parish of St Sepulchres in Middlesex. The broadside is printed with verses for the coming year, 1830 and decorated with a border of 7 woodcuts primarily depicting domestic Christmas scenes. The title woodcut depicts the beadle on his night watch and ward accompanied by three night watchmen.

Such broadsides were delivered to householders within the bellman's area of responsibility just before christmas, in the hope that a financial 'tip' or token would be given in appreciation of the services provided by the bellman throughout the year. The bellman would also often also recite the verses aloud as he walked through the streets. The sheets were often hung in houses as seasonal decorations. Bellmen were Parish officers responsible for making public announcements in the streets.