kails

Updated: May 8, 2025

Every hamlet had its pair of butts; and on Sundays and holidays all able-bodied men were required to appear in the field, to employ their leisure hours "as valyant Englishmen ought to do," "utterly leaving the play at the bowls, quoits, dice, kails, and other unthrifty games;" magistrates, mayors, and bailiffs being responsible for their obedience, under penalty, if these officers neglected their duty, of a fine of twenty shillings for each offence.

James Anthony Froude - The Reign of Henry the Eighth, Volume 1 (of 3)