Whiffler

Her dancers did a sword dance, had a Fool, a Whiffler (who beheads the Fool) a Beast ( or hobby,) and a Betty (a comic character - guy dressed as a girl and chased by the Beast.)

"Morris dancing could be 'extinct' within 20 years because young people are too embarrassed to take part, a UK Morris association said today." Ann Althouse 2009

The Whiffler threaded a scarlet cord through the tip of his sword.

Death of a Fool Marsh, Ngaio, 1895-1982 1956

Presently, the Whiffler, again carrying his sword, re-appeared through the back entrance and joined his brothers.

Death of a Fool Marsh, Ngaio, 1895-1982 1956

With an elaborate pantomime, laying his finger on his lips, he tiptoed up behind the Whiffler, who stood swinging his sword by its red ribbon.

Death of a Fool Marsh, Ngaio, 1895-1982 1956

The Whiffler plunged past him and out into the dark.

Death of a Fool Marsh, Ngaio, 1895-1982 1956

Two of them stood on one side, near me, and two on the other and the fifth, the Whiffler — I knew afterwards it was Ernie — wandered away by himself.

Death of a Fool Marsh, Ngaio, 1895-1982 1956

When, however, the Whiffler (now clearly recognizable as Ernie) had made his appalling announcement from the Mardian dolmen, Carey had gone forward and spoken to Dr. Otterly and the Rector.

Death of a Fool Marsh, Ngaio, 1895-1982 1956

After a preliminary phrase or two it ushered in the Whiffler.

Death of a Fool Marsh, Ngaio, 1895-1982 1956

They left their swords by Dr. Utterly and with the Whiffler performed the Mardian Morris.

Death of a Fool Marsh, Ngaio, 1895-1982 1956

There were four of them dressed exactly like the Whiffler.

Death of a Fool Marsh, Ngaio, 1895-1982 1956