The history of Cajanus: the Swedish giant, from his birth to the present time. By the author of the Gigantick histories.

Table of contents

- [frontispiece]

- [titlepage]

- SUBSCRIBERS To the HISTORY of The Swedish GIANT.

- THE INTRODUCTION.

- CHAP. I. Of the Giant's country, birth, parentage, and education.

- CHAP. II.

- CHAP. III.

- CHAP. IV.

- CHAP. V.

- CHAP. VI

- CHAP. VII.

- CHAP. VIII.

- CHAP. IX.

- CHAP. X.

- CHAP. XI.

- CHAP. XII.

- CHAP. XIII.

- CHAP. XIV.

THE HISTORY Of the Swedish GIANT.

Here's an End of this Book.

Giant CAJANUS.

THE HISTORY OF CAJANUS THE Swedish GIANT, From his BIRTH To the present Time.

By the AUTHOR of the Gigantick Histories.

Printed for Tho. Boreman, Bookseller, near the two giants in Guildhall, London. 1742. [Price 4 d.]

SUBSCRIBERS To the HISTORY of The Swedish GIANT.

A.

- MAster Bradgar Allen, 2 Books.

- Miss Nanny Abdy, of Golden-square.

- Miss Polly Ackland, of London-wall.

B.

- Master Billy Becker, of Bedfordshire.

- Master John Beck.

- Master William Henry Beck.

- Miss Jenny Bowden.

- Miss Leny Brereton.

- Master William Boreman, of Margate, Kent.

- Miss Peggy Bectenson, of Worcester.

- Master Tommy Bennett, of Peter-street.

- Master Jacky Baskervile.

- Master William 〈◊〉, and

- Master Thomas Bun•, of Worcester.

- Miss Kitty Bingham, and

- Miss Sally Bingham, of Derby.

- Miss Polly Beswick.

- Master Neddy Beswick.

- Miss Byrche.

- Miss Jenny Birche.

- Miss Penclope Brindley.

C.

- Giant Cajanus, 100 Books.

- Miss Mary Eliz. Coleno.

- Miss Betsy Candy.

- Master Gawin C••bin, of Rappahanock in Virginia.

- Master Bennet Combe.

- Miss Hannab Chitendum.

- Master Dicky Caldwell.

- Miss Ann Charnier.

D.

- Master Daniel Danvers.

- Miss Molly Dobree.

- Master Peter Dobree.

- Miss Betty Dyson.

- Miss Polly Dyson.

- Master Abrabam Dyson.

- Master Billy Dyson.

- Miss Betsy Durrance.

- Master Jacky Duncombe.

- Miss Clara Duncombe.

- Miss Patty Duncombe.

E.

- Master Augustine Earle.

- Miss Betty Earle.

F.

- Master Robert Frost,

- Master Dickey Frost, and

- Miss Rebecca Frost, all of Yarmouth, Norfolk.

- Miss Betsy Frinsham.

- Miss Nancy Frinsham.

- Master Edward Fenw••k.

G.

- Master Alexander Garret. of Spiral-fields.

- Miss Patty Garden, of Muswell-hill.

H.

- Master Robert H•wes.

- Master Edward Hunt.

- Miss Rebecca Hedges.

- Miss Molly Havilland.

I.

- Master Andrew Innes.

- Miss Innes, of Twickenham.

- Master Nathaniel Johnson.

- Master Henry Johnson.

- Master Phineas Johnson.

- Master Thomas Johnson.

- Miss Molly Jacobs, of Size-lane.

K.

- Miss Betty Kingsbury, and

- Miss Hetty Kingsbury, of Dublin.

- Master Tommy Kitchin.

L.

- Miss Polly Leightenhouse.

M.

- Miss Susanna Mortimer.

- Master Mortimer.

- Master Daniel Harry Mayne

- Miss Molly Mitchell.

- Master Paul M•••ue•, of Bradford. Wilts.

- Master Isaac Miller, of Long-lane, Southwark.

- Miss Molly Marriett. of Great Russel-street.

- Master Philip Muysson.

- Master Henry Muysson.

- Miss Millan.

- Miss Betsy Muscell, of Bethnal-green.

- Miss Nanny Mortimer.

N.

- Master Jacky Nam, of Spital-fields.

- Miss Betsy Newham.

- Miss Betsy New.

- Miss Peggy New.

O.

- Master Orlebar.

P.

- Miss Ann Pitt,

- Miss Sarah Pitt,

- Master Joseph Pitt, and

- Master John Pitt, all of Mile-end.

- Miss Betsy Proctor.

R.

- Miss Sarah Reyner, of St. Paul's College.

- Master 〈◊〉 Romb••••llet

- Master Jacky Ro•••.

- Master George William Ridge 〈◊〉

S.

- Miss Susanna Smith, at the Sugar leaf, Woodstreet.

- Master Tommy Shaw.

- Miss Eliza Maria Senex.

- Miss Sarah Sammer Sidley.

- Miss Catherine Sumner Sidley.

- Master Tommy Saunders.

- Miss Chelly Saunders.

- Miss Maria Sophia Seidel.

T.

- Miss Betsy Turner, of Fleetstreet.

W.

- Master Isaac Welman.

- Miss Jenny Welman, of Poundisford, Somerset.

- Master Dixon Weldon.

- Miss Rebecea Weldon.

- Miss Robine Williams, of Orchard-street, Westm.

- Master Harry Welster.

THE INTRODUCTION.

THE character that this Swedish Giant gives of himself, of his being the greatest wonder, of the kind, that ever appeared in this kingdom; that all ranks of people receive a pleasing satisfaction that see him, and express their surprize at his huge stature; which, he says, exceeds that of any Giant since the great Goliah of Gath, whom David slew.

This account must needs very much awaken the attention of our youth, especially such as have no opportunity to see this big Man; I think myself, therefore, under an obligation to my young readers, who have promoted the sale of my gigantick Volumes, to give them the History of this mighty Christian Goliah, as he calls himself: in which I hope to satisfy their curiosity, to do honour to his Giantship, and at the same time vindicate the merit of my much respected friends and next neighbours, the two Giants in Guildhall, Gogmagog and Corinaeus.

CHAP. I. Of the Giant's country, birth, parentage, and education.

THIS Swedish Giant was born at Oulo, or Ula. a port town situated on the east side of the Botnick Bay in Finland, bordering on Russia, in the year 1709. His Father's name was Cajanus; a man of a good character, but better noted for his gigantick size, than for family or fortune; though without doubt he came from a race of Giants, which it is too troublesome at this time to trace to the original. His Mother likewise was of an uncommon height, which exceeded seven feet; and his Sister, now living, is still taller; who, perhaps, should she live to see her Brother return, and know his good luck, may take it in her head to travel upon the same errand.

Of these Great Parents was our Giant born, and his size proves he was no bastard.

His honest, careful old Father, bestowed on him an education suitable to his own circumstances, and his Son's capacity for learning, which never appeared very quick or lively; and endeavoured to plant in him, whilst young, the seeds of true honour and virtue. He likewise brought him up to industry, to work in the garden with the spade, &c. and to labour in the field in husbandry affairs, and in short, to get his bread by the sweat of his brow.

As no extraordinary event attended his younger years, he eat, drank, and play'd like other youth, only more at a time, and grew faster; we'll pass over this part of his life, and follow him to the next stage.

CHAP. II.

Of the Giant's falling in love with a farmer's daughter, named Dolla Rucina: How he made known his passion to her father, and what reception he met with.

NEar to Oulo lived awealthy farmer, who had an only daughter of great beauty, and possessed of all the virtues which render those charms the more amiable: She was likewise trained from her infancy to industry, by the care and example of a good Mother, who taught her to spin flax and wool; to milk the kine; to make cheese and butter, and all that was necessary for the female part, in the dairy, the house, the garden, or the field; so that she had no idle hours to spend in dress, &c. Nor did she need it; for nature had been very indulgent in plentifully bestowing graces to set her off, without any art or fallacy.

The perfections of this fair maid had taken deep root in our Giant's heart, so that in her center'd all his happiness. He had demonstrated a good judgment in placing his affections on one so worthy: but how to gain her was the point. He suffered Love's flame to smother a long time in his breast, before he dared to undertake this adventure. He was at this time a comely young man; and though he was tall, his stature might have been dispensed with, had he ceased growing: but his continuing to increase in bulk and 〈◊〉 made him almost despair of success: for he could not well expect 〈…〉 so 〈◊〉 would venture herself with a man of so preposterous a size.

Notwithstanding these checks and rep••ses, which presented themselves concerning the difficulty of this undertaking, he at length, with the courage of a Giant, pluck'd up a good heart, and ventured one pleasant evening to visit this fair damsel, to whom he was not altogether a stranger. She received him with great discretion and caution, and he behaved with much politeness and good manners.

After some little time he address'd himself to Dolla Rucina's father, and with a graceful air told his errand; and with great modesty desired his permission to visit his charming daughter, the lovely Dolla Rucina; and tho' his designs were strictly honourable, he would not enter upon a business of so great a concern without his leave.

The father answer'd, Thou hast done well, young man, in first making known this affair unto me; but what thou askest is of so great moment, that it requires much consideration: I cannot therefore immediately consent to what thou requirest, till I have well weighed it in my own mind. Tell me, therefore, thy name, parentage, and place of abode. The young Giant answered, My name is Daniel Cajanus, son of the old Cajanus, of Oulo. An honest and reputable family, replied the old man: thy father was not unknown to me. Thou shalt be welcome to my house, and to such good cheer as it will afford.

Dolla Rucina's parents entertain'd Cajanus with bowls of most delicious cream; pails of syllabub; fresh cheese and butter; all sorts of choice fruit that their garden or orchard produced; with several kinds of refreshing liquors; and, what was more dear to him than all other delights, a reception which gave him great hopes, that one day he should obtain possession of the most lovely object of his affection.

Our young Giant being thus fortunate in his first adventure, often resorted to this fair maiden, who as constantly received him; and, with her parents leave, entertained him in the same generous manner; plentifully, and yet prudently, regaling him with good cheer, and a hearty welcome.

CHAP. III.

How the Giant was disappointed in gaining the fair Dolla Rucina; and what followed.

AFter a considerable time spent in courting the beautiful Dolla Rucina, wherein success seemed to favour all Cajanus's wishes, and he even rioted in excess of pleasures; the parents of this fair maid, to whom she was very dear, told her with much tenderness, lest it should cause too great an uneasiness in her mind; for she had, during the visits of Cajanus, conceived a very good liking to his person; his great bulk was the only objection, and the remarks which the world made of the disproportion in their size. That they should inform Cajanus, at his next visit, that they could not approve of a match so unequal; that they were sorry they had not broke it off sooner; and advised their daughter no longer to entertain thoughts of marrying a man whose size exceeded all reason. Dolla Rucina, ever obedient to her parents, promised them that she would no longer receive him upon that footing; but as they commanded only.

The great disproportion in their size had often given much disquietude to these lovers, and interrupted their greatest and most innocent enjoyments, long before Dolla Rucina had received this injunction from her father.

She at this time reach'd but a little above Cajanus's waste, and was of an agreeable size, and not likely to be taller. He, who already surpass'd all mankind in heighth, was still growing on apace, as if he intended to tower above the skies.

It was likewise a great mortification to the happiness of this unequal pair, to hear themselves ridicul'd upon that account, by all the young people in the country round about; to whom this courtship was well known, and which afforded them much diversion.

Dolla Rucina desired leave of her father, that she herself might make this affair known to Cajanus: to which he freely consented.

This fair damsel had that same evening resolution enough to tell Cajanus all that her father and mother advised her to, which was calculated for the good of them both: and this she broke to him in the following manner.

After a deep sigh, she said, Dear Cajanus, thou hast need to arm thyself with all the fortitude thou art master of, lest what I have to tell thee wound so deep, that it overwhelm thy poor spirit. Alas! Dolla Rucina has this day received a strict charge from her parents, no longer to entertain thee on any other terms than that of a friend. This charge from my father is of so much consequence, and concerns the happiness of us both, that I cannot disobey it.

Cajanus at this news was struck dumb, not one word could he utter, till after some time; he withdrew, gave vent to his passion in a torrent of tears which flowed from his eyes in great abundance.

Dolla Rucina's parents endeavoured by reason to pacify his great grief, but no arguments made any impression; time only was to recover him.

However, in some little time he began to recollect himself; to walk, talk, and use his reason. And before his departure they regaled him with curds, cream, and other country fare, as usual; which Cajanus was a dear lover of, and fed pretty cheerfully upon.

After this refreshment he bid adieu to his dear Dolla Rucina, paid his respects to her worthy parents, and then walk'd leisurely home, with a belly brimful of good cheer, a heart loaded with sorrow, and a head full of thoughts of what had happen'd, and of contriving what course to take. This held him till he got home, and to bed; where he spent the night in uttering deep sighs and bitter groans: Grief and melancholly had seized his heart, dejection was visible in his countenance.

The friends of Cajanus endeavoured, as Dolla Rucina's had done before, to comfort him under this heavy trial, but in vain; he would yield to no perswasions: they left him therefore to his own course, which seemed fixt upon a firm resolution of visiting foreign parts.

Upon every disappointment which Cajanus met with, a natural sullenness followed, which would yield to no arguments of reason; but was forced to be left always to his own will to rectify. This was the occasion of some extraordinary trouble both to himself and to his friends.

CHAP. IV.

Of the Giant's resolving to leave his country: How he was invited into the army; and what followed.

THE disappointment which Cajanus met with in his love-adventure, was soon spread over the town of Oulo, and the neighbouring villages; that he became the jest of all the young people of those parts, to whom this amour was well known. He shut himself up therefore from society, refusing any longer to appear in publick: and upon this account came to a fixed resolution of leaving his native place, and visiting foreign climates.

There happen'd at this time to be recruiting officers in the town of Oulo, who were raising men for the service of the King of Sweden, who was then about assembling a large army for the recovery of Finland from the Russians, or some other important enterprize; being spirited up by the artful contrivance of a mitred priest, who was chief in the cabinet of a great prince.

These officers being insormed of the Giant's design of going abroad, endeavoured to engage him to enter into the army; to which end they tempted him with money; they promised to get him promoted: but neither of these allurements had any influence on Cajanus.

It was likewise strongly represented to him, how much his king and country stood in need at that time of his service, and the honour he might get to himself. He was still deaf to all this; and chose rather to leave his country and kindred exposed to the havock and misery of war, than to lend them his assistance.

CHAP. V.

How the example of some mighty Giants of old was proposed to Cajanus; how be rejected them with disdain: and whether this great Swedish Giant is not a very great coward.

THE first is Goliah, the great Giant of Gath, who made the whole host of the Israelites to quake: Even King Saul himself, who was taller than any man in his army, and a valiant soldier too, was afraid of this great Philistine. He went out day by day, and vaunted out his insolent speeches, and hold threats of picking their bones, and giving their flesh to the fowls of the air and beasts of the 〈◊〉. This put Saul and his army into so great a panick, that had it not been for the fortunate stone from the sling of young David, the son of Jesse, it might have gained the Philistine army the victory.

The next is the strong and valiant Sampson; who, when he was laid down to repose himself, and his enemies were stealing unawares to seize him; it was no sooner called out to him, Sampson, the Philistines are upon thee; but he starts up, lays hold of the first weapon in his way, even the jaw-bone of an ass, with which he laid about him so fast, that he smote them hip and thigh, and after he had surveyed the slain, he sat down and composed a song of triumph; viz. Heaps upon heaps: with the jaw-bone of an ass I have slain a thousand men. True courage never wants a weapon.

We read in the History of the Kings of Israel, of the mighty Tachmonite, named Adino, who slew eight hundred at one time. And of Eleazar, the son of Dodo, who routed a whole army. Sacred Writ mentions many such stout champions who devoted their service for the defence of their country. Profane history relates the same of all their great heroes.

The noble actions of these brave old Giants, was no inducement to Cajanus; he was afraid of being placed in the front of the battle, to have the rough musick of musket balls whistling in his ears. The thoughts of this was death to him. How far short does this Swedish Giant's courage fall of Giant Gogmagog's, who, even now in his old age, will stand the fire of a whole regiment of our valiant city train'd-bands, without winching? and his stout brother Corineus will do the same.

Giant Cajanus would hearken to no proposals of going into the army; and told the recruiting officers that he look'd upon what they had promised, as only to inveigle and trappan him, and not in their power to perform; and therefore gave them an absolute denial, that he would not accept of a soldier's life: and refused to be seen by them any more.

As Giant Cajanus grew up, he shewed a lesser inclination to a military life than was expected: for instead of a brave martial spirit, of gaining glory in the field of war, he had a natural aversion to the life of a soldier; and chose rather to travel like a vagabond, to shew his great bulk for lucre: which shews that the biggest men have not always the stoutest hearts.

How pleasant would it have been for future ages to have read in the Swedish chronicle of the glorious atchievements of the great Cajanus, when he appeared in the day of battle in the fore front of the army? that to him, in a great measure, might be owing, victory against the Russians.

He might have been made to look very terrible and fierce, by gracing his head with a stately strong helmet, properly adorn'd, which might have added to his stature two or three foot; and given him a handsome & strong shield; likewise to have fenced his body with armour of polish'd steel, and a sword answerable to his great size; so to have equipp'd him every way like a man of war. And then, if he had had no true courage of his own, he might have pretended to vaunt it out with big words, like the braggadocias of Tottenham-court, of what they can do; though they never design to hurt their powerful antagonist. Such language, perhaps, might intimidate an enemy, and thereby have gain'd advantage to themselves.

Giant Cajanus had been privately inform'd, that the recruiting officers expected an order to press him into the King's service, he therefore agrees with the captain of a ship to carry him to Holland.

He immediately prepares for his voyage, takes leave of all his friends, and before his departure he went and took his last farewel of the charming Dolla Rucina, and her good father and mother. They gave him a hearty welcome: so that having eat of their meat and drank of their nectar, they embraced with great tenderness, and bid a final adieu to each other.

I should have told my readers, that Dolla Rucina was now married to a young farmer, whose father was lately dead, and had left him in possession of a rich farm. They were agreeable in size and circumstances, and had the prospect of being a very happy couple: in which state we shall leave her, and trace the footsteps of young Giant Cajanus only.

CHAP. VI

Of what befel Cajanus in his passage from Finland to England.

GIant Cajanus, having provided all things necessary for this voyage, and the ship being ready to fail, went aboard as private as he could; where ••ving stow'd himself in the great cabbin, not caring to shew himself till at sea; the captain gave or ders to weigh anchor and set fail; a fresh gale of wind springing up, which soon run them out of sight of Oulo, and held favourable all down the Botnick Bay: they had likewise good weather thro' the Baltick sea.

Cajanus was well used by the captain, who entertain'd him with his adventures in many voyages and travels to foreign parts, and the dangers he escap'd; very pleasant to hear, but too much to relate in this History. Cajanus, in his turn, entertain'd the captain with his own adventures by land: these relations were often season'd with good bowls of punch, canns of flip, and other refreshing liquors. And thus they spent their time, during a safe and quick passage to Holland; in which no real dangers or misfortunes happen'd: exceptin a stiff gale of wind, which they met with one evening off the coast of Norway, which obliged them to hand all their top-fails, and to fail under them three coasts: there run a very great head-sea, and the sheets being close haul'd, she made but dull way thro' the water; it was beside dark hazy weather. The failors had often been in greater storms than that, and so made light of it. But the case of poor Cajanus was quite different; he expected nothing less than to be swallowed up every minute by the waves. The ship sometimes heel'd gunnel too, which is common in a gale of wind; this so much added to Cajanus's fright, to see the water come upon deck, that he laid himself along, and held fast by some ropes at the weather-side, where he was continually sliding over to leeward, and crawling back again: and so, like Sisiphus with his stone, his work was never done.

The sailors endeavour'd to hearten him up at this time; but nothing would do, till Cajanus saw the storm abate, day-light appear, and a brave bowl of punch before him: He then look'd as stout as the best man aboard the ship.

Cajanus arriv'd safe in Holland, and having made the best advantage he could there, being told how fond the English people are of foreign novelties, especially of a tame Giant, he might find his account in it, if he would visit that country; for he would be look'd upon as a very great curiosity; perhaps the biggest that ever was seen in that land.

The Giant being instructed how he should behave when he came over, embark'd for England; where landing safe, he set out privately for London, and took up his residence at Charing-cross: and having recovered himself from the fatigues of his journey, began to publish his arrival.

CHAP. VII.

How Giant Cajanus sold himself to the renowned Giant Pinchbone, one of the sons of Tubalcain, the inventer of a rich metal nearly resembling gold: and how his master chang'd his name from Cajanus, to that of Puss.

UPon the first notice of the arrival of this Grant at Charing-cross, his fame was soon spread over the whole town; so that there was a great resort of persons of all ranks to see him, at one Shilling each; which was a great profit to Cajanus, and an encouragement he ought to have been contented with.

Giant Pinchbone, who is better known for vivacity of parts, and a penetrating genius, than for enormous heighth, or bulk of body; visiting among other company, and observing how well pleased every one was with the sight of him, began presently to medltate and contrive how he might make advantage to himself by shewing this huge man.

In a little time, by frequent visits, he became so well acquainted with Giant Caianus, that he observed him to be of a very covetous temper; and therefore was to be attack'd on that quarter. Accordingly, an offer being made, he soon listned to the proposal; and at last agreed, that Giant Pinchbone, for a sum of money (some say two hundred Pounds) should have the use of him for a certain time (six Months, as 'tis said) to expose to view, and to make what advantage he could by shewing him. Articles being drawn up, and sign'd, the Giant took the money, the sight of which made him to smile, and put it into a purse, and that safe into his pocket: This done, he delivers himself, body and soul, whole and entire, with the purchase money in his breeches, into the hands of his master, who was very well pleas'd with his bargain.

Giant Pinchbone having got the full possession of the Swedish Giant into his own hands, he presently changed his name to Puff, by publishing him to the world under all the exaggerating titles that his great genius could invent: such as ‘the greatest curiosity that ever was seen in this kingdom; the surprising Giant; the wonderful Colosius; the Christian Goliah; ’ and many other swell'd epithets: and at length that he was speedily to se out for Portugal. By these means, this son of Tub••∣ca••, soon got his purchase money in again.

CHAP. VIII.

How Giant Puff was afraid he had made a compact with the Devil, by what be had done: and how his master deliver'd him from such terrible apprehensions.

SOon after Puff had sold himself, the Devil's Agent came to Pinchbone, to see if he would part with him again; and to know his price, and what he was fit for. When upon examination, finding that he was no Blacksmith, Wheelwright, Sawyer, Cooper, Carpenter, Joiner, Taylor, nor any other serviceable trade, he declined having any thing to do with him: Tho' his master was of more honour, and knew better his own interest, than to have sold him to the Devil, if his Agent had liked him.

The great Giant Puff was not so big a fool, but he understood the Agent's business: he grew very uneasy at what he had done: and was afraid that he had already enter'd into Articles with the Devil. He had read of persons selling themselves, and making such compacts for a term of years, at the end of which they were fetcht away: the thoughts hereof terribly frighted this mighty Christian Goliah.

This threw the Giant into despair. He was jealous of his master; and expected no other than the Devil to send his Agent for him. His master endeavour'd to free him from these fears; and to divert his mind, promised to shew him Oxon, &c. by which means he in some measure recover'd him from his melancholy.

CHAP. IX.

How Puff's master carried him to the chief University of this kingdom, and how he was receiv'd there

PUFF's master having satisfy'd his Giant's mind that his intentions were honourable, provides a proper machine, perhaps a chaise which travels without horses, and conveys him safe to Oxford: where having furnish'd him with commodious longings, and given him time to refresh and repose himself, he gave notice of the Giant's arrival in that city: which was no sooner made known, but the curious from all parts flock'd to see him; especially the students of the University, who were well satisfied with the sight of this living Colossus. They never before had seen any thing but the bones of dead Giants; such as long shins, and thighs, great ribs, vast skulls, &c. They had read indeed of the Philistine, Goliah of Gath, and his brothers; and of the enormous size of Og, king of Bashan, and many more, mentioned in holy writ. And likewise some very monstrous big Giants which the learned tell us of. But here was a living proof of there being Giants; a man who measured in heighth eight foot four inches without shoes; and could reach ten and a half: And when he was in health, his bulk was in proportion to that of his heighth. Sure this is demonstration enough to end all disputes about the existence of Giants.

I make no doubt but that there has appear'd, at different times, all those that have been mentioned by historians; tho' now, by length of time, they seem like monstrous and fabulous relations.

CHAP. X.

How some unlucky scholars had formed a plot for seizing the Giant in one of his night perambulations: and how he was delivered out of their hands, and got safe to town.

DUring the time that the Swedish Giant was at Oxford, some ingenious scholars, who perhaps could not afford to pay for the sight of him, enter'd into a design of seizing, and carrying him by main force to some private place; where they intended to have read a lecture upon this great man, and to have examined him joint by joint, and limb by limb. In order, therefore, to put this scheme in execution, it was agreed to seize him in one of his evening sallies: it being customary for the Giant to take a small airing, when the city was in profound rest. This plot was carried into execution by a few of them, who were desperate and resolute: they knew he had not courage to defend himself. The Giant being laid hold on, was carried to a proper place; and a watch set over him, with a promise he should come to no harm, if he would be quiet; and the next day be set at liberty. Pinchbone, his master, used all the arguments he could think of, to procure his Giant's liberty: but nothing could prevail with them, till he pull'd out some of his curious metal toys, which he distributed amongst them, and which they took in reality for gold: This so blinded their eyes, that after they had a little satisfied their curiosity, in viewing him from head to toe, he was set at liberty: which he had no sooner regain'd, but he begg'd of his master to leave that city; which he readily consented to, and gave him a guide directly to London; and discharged his lodging, and followed him.

Giant Puff, whenever he heard any travellers, either behind or before, always stepp'd into the hedge, and there stood upright; which in the night look'd like the body or trunk of an old tree. By which cunning stratagem he escaped safe to town, without any thing remarkable happening

He was convey'd to an apartment facing the Mansion-house; where he remains this 24th of August, 1742. under the circumstances described in the following chapter.

The time being now expired that he sold himself for, Pinchbone, like an honourable master, delivered Giant Puff into his own hands, to make the most of himself.

CHAP. XI.

Of the present situation of Giant Puff; with a description of him.

THis wonderful Colossus is cramm'd, like a Maramotte, in a box, in a small close back room, up one pair of stairs, facing the Mansion-house; where, perhaps, should he live to see it finish'd, he may expect to be put into some post, like Gogmagog and Corineus; whether he has done any thing to deserve it or no. But that point must be left to the consultation and determination of the heads of the city.

Here each little boy and girl pays Six-pence for the sight of this big Giant. He is generally seated in a great chair, suited to his bulk and dignity, and ready to receive company. His dress is a rich banjan, after the Turkish mode; double breasted, and ornamented with gold, and girt round the waste with a splendid sash, or girdle, like that of Giant Gog.'s in Guildhall: All his other habit is answerable to this, and exactly fitted to the gravity of a peaceable Giant.

Having enter'd Goliah's apartment, paid obeisance to his Giant Majesty, and survey'd him a little time sitting, he begins to rouse; for he generally seems drowsy; which we may impute to illness: he fills a glass of wine, and drinks to himself, (for if any of the company are minded to drink with him, they must send for their bottle.) He then rises up, and surprizes all spectators with his great heighth and bigness. And having stalk'd backwards and forwards in his room, half a dozen turns, and entertain'd the company with a song, in a voice as loud as the great pipe of a large organ, and in a tune like Tidde-doll over his gingerbread; he drinks another glass, and perhaps another, if he fancies it. Then he shews how high he can reach; answers civil questions, and suffers some parts of his body to be measur'd; and these are the chief exploits he performs, excepting it be to snuff a candle, or to let a fart.

His heighth was eight foot, four inches; and the bigness of his body and limbs was once in just proportion. But now his legs are gouty and ill shapen; his knees knock together; his body bowed, that it seems painful for him to stretch, or raise himself up. His head likewise hung down, and his cheeks are pinched; his looks fickly, and all his parts greatly wasted. His hands and fingers are very long and slender; his feet and toes the same.

He is now thirty three years of age, and has been done growing about eight.

I have now, my young readers, given you the state and way of life of this gigantick young man, who for the sake of a little lucre has destroy'd his health, wanting air and exercise. Whereas with a proper use of his parts, and due care, he might have liv'd to have been an old robust Giant, and descended to his grave loaden with honours and renown; as the brave Giants of old time.

And it was in order to prevent his being utterly ten to the world, as also to oblige my young readers, that I have been at the pains to publish this gigantick History of his Life; and I doubt not but I shall be as handsomely rewarded for it, as I was for writing that of the two Giants my worthy next neighbours, old Gogmagog and Corineus.

He is now attended by physicians and surgeons; and is in such a dangerous way, as seems to forebode a speedy dissolution.

But lest this melancholy relation should too much affect the tenderhearted reader, let us hasten to the next chapter.

CHAP. XII.

A story of the Giant's going to see a review; his being made an ensign in the army; and how be quitted his colours.

AS I would no ways derogate from our Giant's reputation for exploits in war, I think myself oblig'd to relate a story I have lately heard, tho' I cannot attest the truth of it. It is this:

There being a review of the troops assembled in Finland, the Giant was perswaded by some of his acquaintance to go to see it. The handsome appearance the officers, &c. made, was much admired by all that saw them. This fine sight so well pleased Cajanus (for so we may now call him, as he is his own master again) that he accepted of an ensign's place, on promise, that if he disliked a soldier's life, he should be at liberty to quit the service.

He being measured, cloath'd and arm'd, enter'd into present pay; but he stalk'd about very awkardly in his new equipments, and seldom in his proper place.

Cajanus's brother officers soon perceiv'd, that tho' he was of a great bulk, he wanted courage; on which account he could do but little good in the front of an army, excepting to look big, and to help scare an enemy that did not know him. But the front was a post that great Goliah could by no means like, except at a review, and in time of peace.

In short, even the common soldiers took upon them to make game of this tall ensign, nay, challeng'd and affronted him continually; knowing he had not the heart to resent it.

After a little time, a rumour was spread, that the Russians were arming, designing to drive the Swedes out of Finland.

Upon this news, some of the young officers, who look'd so gay at the review, fell sick; others sold, or flung up their commissions. Cajanus, for his part, neither ask'd leave to quit, nor try'd to •ell, but threw down his flag, and got away in the night as fast as he could.

CHAP. XIII.

How the Giant went to visit Gogmagog and Corineus in Guildhall.

IT happen'd that during the time this mighty Swedish Giant was his own master, he was presented with the Gigantick History of the two famous Giants in Guildhall, London; at the sight of which 〈◊〉 is impossible to express his surprize and delight: But upon hearing it read, his countenance fell; and he was much alarm'd, lest he should not appear to great a curiosity, as he would fain make the world believe. He was inform'd that they were Giants of nice honour, but no ways quarrelsome, unless they were first affronted. Upon this, he resolved to make them a visit in a private manner, to see if he could discern any lineaments of his ancestors or kindred in their faces. Accordingly, he squeez'd himself into a coach, sitting almost double, and drove close to Guildhall. As he enter'd the great door, he had presently the satisfaction of seeing, and paying obeisance to Gogmagog and Corineus, those two brave old city champions. He was somewhat abash'd at the fierceness of their looks, their warlike habits, and stately deportment; in which he saw nothing that was akin to himself. The two old Giants stood stiff to their posts, taking very little notice of him; he appearing to them more like the ghost of a Giant than any thing else: and tho' he came just about twelve a-clock, as if he expected an invitation to dinner, when they stepp'd down; he was entirely disappointed if he did: perhaps they might have but short commons that day; or might judge by his looks, that he would with much more intrepidity attack a sheep than he would a lion.

The people began to gather about the strange Giant from all parts of the Hall; but he, not caring to be star'd at too much, strides gently up to the Booksciler's, next the Giants, look'd at his books, then turns himself round, and without saying one word, takes two or three colossus strides across the Hall, into the coach, and away he goes: the people gazing after him, as if they had seen the apparition of some Giant, which has been said to happen before their death.

Now methinks I hear the Giant, upon hearing this read to him, mutter in broken English, A lye! A lye! A lye! Be that as it will; the next time he comes to Guildhall without giving notice, he will be in danger of being squeez'd into Little-ease.

CHAP. XIV.

How well pleas'd Giant Puff will be, at the reading of this History. How many handfuls of little boys and girls six-pences he will give the author for writing of it; and whether he will not set down all the fibs the gigantick author has told, and puff them up.

And how the two famous Giants at Guildhall, being maintain'd at the publick charge for their past services, are still to be seen for nothing; and do not intend to travel into foreign countries.

And how their Histories in two Volumes are sold for Four-pence each, finely bound; in the said Guildhall, just by them.

And how likewise the Curiosities in the Tower, two Volumes; the History of St. Paul's Cathedral, two Volumes; and Westminster Abbey, two Volumes, finely bound; may be all had at the same place and price.

There is a great report of another surprizing Giant of our own nation being lately return'd from his travels; and how he pretends, on a clear day, that he can see much farther into a milstone than his neighbours, and that he will teach this art to others: and how he visits

All the country round about,

To puff eyes in,

or puff them out.

And how,

The mighty deeds

which he has done,

Shall be penn'd down,

if this should run.

And how,

Information about this book

Title statement

The history of Cajanus: the Swedish giant, from his birth to the present time. By the author of the Gigantick histories.

Boreman, Thomas, fl. 1730-1743.

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ID [ota]

http://ota.ox.ac.uk/id/3461

ID [isbn10]

1106004604

ID [isbn13]

9781106004604

ID [TCP]

K010754.000

ID [BIBNO]

CW3313001308

ID [ECLL]

0160602500

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Source

— The history of Cajanus: the Swedish giant, from his birth to the present time. By the author of the Gigantick histories., Boreman, Thomas, fl. 1730-1743.. 128p. : ill. ; 96⁰. [London] :: Printed for Tho. Boreman, London,. 1742.. [The author of the Gigantick histories = Thomas Boreman.] [Reproduction of original from the Harvard University Houghton Library.] [English Short Title Catalog, ESTCN17467.] [Electronic data. Farmington Hills, Mich. : Thomson Gale, 2003. Page image (PNG). Digitized image of the microfilm version produced in Woodbridge, CT by Research Publications, 1982-2002 (later known as Primary Source Microfilm, an imprint of the Gale Group).]

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