A Copy of Verses for 1820, Humbly Presented to all my Worthy Masters and Mistresses in the Parishes of St. James and St. John, Clerkenwell

Christmas greetings sheet or 'Bellman's verse' conveying the good wishes of the Beadle and Bellman Joseph Raymond to the masters and mistresses of the parishes of St James and St John, Clerkenwell. The broadside is printed with verses for the coming year, 1820 and and illustrated border of seasonal woodcuts including a company at table enjoying christmas food and drink and holly and ivy decorations. The sheet is headed with a woodcut of the Bellman at his nightly watch and ward ringing his bell accompanied by two nightwatchmen.

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.